Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Spyro…Spyro…Spyro…

Spyro!

Weary eyes began to slowly open at the sound of voices that felt so distant…but growing closer.

“Spyro! Spyro open your eyes! Please wake up!” The voice grew louder, and soon enough a figure filled their eyes- a dragon. Black in scale with a red underbelly and wing membranes, lovely emerald eyes as color returned to their vision.

“Please…ancestors let him be okay…” Cynder muttered, though too quietly under her breath for Spyro to hear. He quickly took note that she looked different than he remembered in what felt like seconds ago.

He remembered…a flurry of memories flowed into his head. The Mountain of Malefor…the battle with Gaul…the gap in memory when he fell into the beam of Dark Aether…and the collapse of the mountain around them.

‘Spyro STOP!’ He heard Cynder’s voice cry out.

‘I can’t…’

‘Get close to me- NOW!’ The words thundered into his memory, and he was suddenly brought back to reality, glancing around to find the two young dragons in complete darkness.

“Cynder? Wh-what happened?” Spyro stammered, he was alerted but groaned as his entire being ached from what felt like an extreme training session in the temple with Terrador.

“I…wish I knew. All I remember is seeing you and Sparx and a flash of light…and then I woke up here next to you.” She explained, checking over their surroundings again. All they could see was sandy-toned stone structures in the dark and long intricate carvings along the walls.

“Was Sparx with us when you woke up?” He noted the lacking presence of his glowing companion, worrying for the dragonfly who wasn’t actively talking their ears off.

“No…I only woke up a few moments ago…I haven’t seen Sparks.”

“Aghh…my head is pounding…” Spyro clutched his head with a paw, feeling as if he had next to no strength in his being. He also quickly realized his horns had grown some. Questions needing answers later. For now, they had to assess the current situation.

“It’s not your head…” Cynder said in a grim tone, as if on cue braziers lighting up all around them. They quickly found themselves in what looked like a massive underground tomb, silhouettes of hundreds of malformed and hideous looking creatures surrounding them.

“For once I wish it was Sparx waking us up…” Cynder hissed, claws scraping across the stony ground in a defensive manner. “Get up Spyro, whatever these things are, they don’t look friendly.”

Spyro got to all fours as quickly as he could, wings stretching some as his muscles flexed for the first time in what felt like an eternity.

“We can still fly out of here, come on!” Spyro called, trying to flap his wings and lift off the ground, Cynder doing the same as she followed after. But the two yelped in surprise as they flopped back to the ground as something seemingly yanked their necks back to the ground level.

Spyro was up quickly and would nudge Cynder some with his snout as he helped her get back up.

“What just happened?” She asked, their eyes tracking the tug on their necks to a translucent green bean that was leading to both of their necks, alerted to emerald colored snake pendants wrapped around their necks and resting over the crest of their chests.

“What is…-“ Spyro began to ask, before the ground around them started to shake and give way as some of the small gangly creatures seemed to burrow their way to the platform they found themselves on.

They charged the purple and black dragons, wielding crude weapons which looked even lesser in quality than the creations the apes had once wielded in battle, Gaul being the exception. Spyro snarled as one of the creatures came too close and quickly found itself on the end of a strong paw of his sending it flying off the platform.

Cynder would spin around and eviscerate one of the foul creatures with her scythe-like tail blade, the black dragoness’ tail like a whip as it span around. Spyro would try to unleash a torrent of fire, but let out only sparks as he realized his magic reserves were drained!

“I can’t use any of my powers, what about you?!” He asked, swiping at another of the beasts as they came near him, rending it apart with his claws. He blocked a few attacks with his wings before tilting his head forward to horn-bash his foe away from him.

Cynder thought about it before she’d try to muster a gust of wind from her wings, only to feel nothing happen. She knew the element better than any of the others she could wield, growling as she’d tear into one of the hideous creatures like they were made of butter!

“No luck- we need crystals!” She called back to her purple companion, trying to close the distance with the monsters before they could, yelping again as she felt her neck being held back.

“Curse this…thing! It’s holding us back!” She looked back at Spyro who tail-slapped one of the creatures off the platform. His amethyst gaze traced the energy back to a round object placed in the middle of the platform, it seemed to be anchored into the device like a rope.

“Cynder, this…chain, it’s anchored to the center of that device. I need to try ripping it out, watch my back!” He barked out before going to the strange device in the center, wrapping his strong paws around the odd magical beam, biting down on it too as he’d try to pull it free.

Cynder was covering him in an instant, the black dragoness defiantly refusing to let the annoying creatures reach Spyro as he worked on freeing them. She slashed and bashed every one of them that got too close to the duo. Their viscous blood coated her razor-like claws as she gave no ground to their foes, even going as far as to close her jaws around one’s head and throw it from the platform!

Spyro pulled hard, his muscles screaming at him to stop as the magic refused to relent from the device. He almost gave up, but with one more strong pull the purple dragon would rip the magical rope from the center! He let out a relieved groan as he turned back to Cynder, who had dutifully protected her friend’s flank.

“We’re free- I think!” He called out, before a tremor shook the entire cavern around them! Rocks and jagged shards of stone fell from the ceiling. A harrowing roar rang in their eardrums before two monstrous hands reached up from the smoke-hidden edge where Spyro and Cynder could only imagine lava resided.

From the choking heat came a horrific creature the two had never seen the likes of before! It had a long body and a menacing face lit alight with an internal flame source.

“Ancestors…what is that?!” Cynder’s eyes were wide like saucers, before the creature reeled it’s right hand back, forming a fist before swinging down at the two dragons!

“Get back!” Spyro shoved the black dragoness to the side as the fist crashed down behind them!

“Get off me! I can move to the side on my own, thank you very much!” She growled some as he got up, silently apologizing. The creature reeled back another smash before the two dragons dodged out of the way and flew off of the platform. The two tried to go in differing directions, before being yanked back a certain distance together!

“Gah- what’s your problem?!” Cynder snapped, making him flinch some…she regretted her words as they left her mouth, she hadn’t meant to bite his head off.

“It’s not my fault! This thing is still connected to us, we have to stick together so long as it’s attached! Follow my lead!” He retorted.

“I’m the stronger flyer, I should-!” She started speaking before Spyro’s eyes widened again and he clutched her close and flew them down.

“DOWN!” He yelled as a burst of flames nearly engulfed the two of them! Once they were free Cynder relented, her hardened expression softening some.

“Alright- you lead…” She sighed, clearly not used to following.

The two flew around the catacombs to avoid the monstrous being, trying desperately to find a way out as they soared! Hundreds of those smaller creatures chanted at them in a tongue neither of the two dragons could recognize.

Just when they started to worry about not being able to safely find a way out, Cynder let out a yelp as what looked like a stone wall stopped Spyro in his tracks! The purple dragon cried out as the monster grappled the purple dragon into their grip, attempting to crush him!

“SPYRO!” Cynder cried out, lunging at the giant fist as she clawed and bashed at it, their skin was strong but under assault from a dragon’s claws it would still give away and lead to the beast’s burning lava-like blood trickling down their fist!

Despite her efforts, their grip on Spyro wouldn’t let up, Cynder desperately tried to free her friend only for the monster’s grip to start tightening down more! But from nowhere an arrow whistled past the two and sank directly into the creature’s left eye! It released Spyro in an instant and the two were able to break free, and shortly after howling in pain it would retreat down into the lava from which it had emerged. The creatures throughout the catacombs receded and would vanish back into the tunnels.

Once the two dragons felt they were safe for the moment, their gazes found the source of the arrow, a hooded figure armed with a bow perched up on a ledge in the catacombs, some dead creatures surrounding him. But before their eyes came a familiar buzzing figure!

“Spyro! You’re alright!” Sparx cheered, hugging his brother’s chest. His voice sounded a bit more toned down than when their memory faded to the Night of Eternal Darkness.

“Sparx! I’m glad to see you safe too!” Spyro let out a happy sigh, but the dragonfly pulled away and gave a mock scowl. This was typical of the dragonfly, using humor and sarcasm to hide the true meaning behind his words.

“Who said I was glad to see you?” He’d jest, but under the surface Spyro knew Sparx was glad to see them.

“And Cynder- glad to see you haven’t run off again.” Sparx verbally poked her, and the look Cynder gave in return was less than impressed, to which he’d relent and hold up his hands in surrender.

Spyro’s gaze turned to the hooded figure perched and seemingly waiting for them.

“Who is that?” Spyro asked of his dragonfly brother.

“Him? Not sure, all he told me was ‘SHHH! You’re making too much noise!’ when he found me. But I think he’s on our side.” Sparx explained, seemingly not as pleased with their rescuer.

“Well I like him already.” Cynder gave the dragonfly a rare smirk, earning an eyeroll from their glowing companion. The two dragons and dragonfly would fly to the perch where the hooded figure had vanished from and passed into the doorway that they presumed he and Sparx had arrived from.

When they landed, they were greeted by him pulling his hood down, revealing his feline face. Fiery fur speckled with black spots that they spotted on part of his exposed legs, paws…but standing on only two legs. He was tall, but Spyro was sure that he and Cynder were taller than he remembered them being, going almost as high as the feline’s torso, not counting their horns of course.

“At last…Spyro, Cynder – are you both alright? Injuries? Anything?” He knelt down closer to their level, showing warmness with those green eyes of his, a more soft hue in contrast to Cynder’s sharp emerald ones.

“Nothing serious…I feel drained but we’re mostly unharmed…and thanks for the save.” Spyro nodded affirmingly, returning the kind gaze from the bow-armed warrior.

“I am glad…it has been so long that I almost hadn’t hoped to truly find you three.” He let out an almost relieved sigh.

“See?! At least someone acknowledges me!” Sparx puffed out his chest proudly, but quickly shutting up when Cynder gave him a rather evil glare.

“Thank you for your help…but who are you?” Cynder asked now, one of her brows raised curiously.

“Apologies…I never thought I’d get far enough for introductions; my name is Hunter of Avalar.” Hunter answered, a hand resting on his chest as he bowed his head ever so slightly.

“Hunter…I remember that name. On the Skavenger ship, you’ve been tracking me all over and ended up imprisoned like Cynder and I!” Spyro’s eyes widened, remembering his time with the pirates that had captured him from the grotto in his visions before the Night of Eternal Darkness.

“For far too long have I searched…when the trail went cold after I followed your path to the Grotto the pirates fell upon me, and I was overwhelmed…Ignitus sent me to find you when you never returned to the temple…it has been…three years since my mission began.” He explained, earning confused glances from all three present.

“Three years…?! We’ve been gone that long?” Spyro clutched his head with a paw.

“That’s impossible- surely someone would have found us before then!” Cynder stammered, wings flaring some.

“Oh man…mom and dad are gonna kill us if we ever go back to the swamp.” Sparx flew around in circles as if he was pacing.

“I know this is a shock, I’d be distraught in a similar fashion as well but-“ He explained, but soon another roar and tremor in the catacombs shook everything all around them. “-we’re not safe here. Once we get out, I’ll be happy to catch you three up to speed…much has changed.

“One thing though- what are these creatures who’ve been attacking us? I’ve never seen the likes of them during our time fighting the apes.” Spyro asked of the Cheetah warrior, who turned back to him.

“They are Grublins, vile creatures they are. I’ll explain everything once we get out of here. Quickly!” And with that Hunter drew his bow again and darted off into the catacombs.

After several life-threatening attacks from the giant monster had ensued, leading the thing to lose an arm due to slamming its fist into a waterfall, the group were no longer hindered and made it to a clearer room in the catacombs. Spyro and Cynder let out sighs of relief as they spotted one of those fantastic green crystals just beckoning them to finally restore their reserves.

“Hunter…give us a moment. We need to regain some of our strength.” Spyro pleaded, earning a confirming nod from the Cheetah.

“Fascinating race you dragons are…drawing your fantastic powers from these crystals. Dragons truly deserve better than the low point they find themselves in.” Hunter looked on in slight awe as he watched the two approach the crystal.

“Yeah, it’s cool and all…until a dragon tries to eat you like an afternoon snack. And by a dragon, I mean her!” Sparx pointed at Cynder, earning an almost hurt glare from her, but Hunter shook his head.

“I am aware of Cynder’s past, Ignitus made sure I knew the stories in their full extent. We cheetahs have been faced with the Terror of the Skies. What I see is a young dragon who had her life ripped away from her until Spyro came along. I trust Ignitus and he trusts Cynder. That’s all the affirmation I need as to her innocence.” He spoke in an almost proud manner regarding the black dragoness. Cynder gave the dragonfly a cheeky grin in return as well as a stuck-out tongue.

The two would approach the crystal and embrace it as they were brought face to face with the Chronicler once more to remind them of the powers they could wield…much as they didn’t feel they themselves needed a reminder of. Though, Spyro raised a brow as he listened to Cynder’s dark elements being listed, not having known the true extent her own…though, wind was a rather innocent one.

“I never knew you could wield four elements like me, Cynder…” He sheepishly smiled, earning a slight smile from her.

“I…never really used them while I was at the temple with you and the guardians. I was too afraid to show them I still had access to my old powers.” She tilted her head down some, but he placed a paw on her shoulder, offering that same warm smile which made her feel a bit lighter.

“I think they’re remarkable.” He affirmed, before quickly retreating his paw, the two dragons averting their gazes from each other a moment. Hunter broke their concentration as he cleared his throat.

“We must keep moving- but with those crystals you two should be in more fighting shape. Perhaps getting out of here will go more swiftly now.” Hunter readied his bow as he leaped impressively to the next level which led to the way out.

“Where are we going Hunter? Before we ended up here, we were in the Well of Souls...” Spyro tried to wrap his head around their current predicament. Cynder didn’t voice her own concerns, but she had the same worries as Spryo. Three years of their lives gone in the blink of an eye seemingly.

“An abandoned catacomb in the Valley of Avalar’s outer reaches…that’s all I can say for now. They grublins carried you both a great distance from the Mountain of Malefor.” He explained to the two dragons and dragonfly.

“Remind me…how far is Avalar from the swamp?” Sparx asked, trying to stay involved.

“A few hours flight likely if the old maps Ignitus showed us at the temple were accurate…and since Volteer confirmed it…they definitely were.” Spyro reminisced on his old teachers, wondering how they’d view him for being gone so long.

‘What will Ignitus say?’ He thought to himself, worry gripping his heart.

“We’re almost out I think…I’m starting to feel a draft on my fur…there must be a way out, come!” Hunter called back to the two, the both of them flapping their wings and following after the Cheetah with Sparx in tow.

The trio led by Hunter were approaching the end of the catacombs, but they all couldn’t help but feel that this was far too easy of an escape…and they would be all too right, unfortunately.

Before their way out appeared a small horde of grublins, waving their crude clubs and other various weapons, charging at the group. Hunter drew his bow and put an arrow right between the eyes of one of the grublins. Spyro and Cynder charged into the fray to meet the beasts in battle…while Sparx hid behind the Cheetah!

“Mind if I just stay here?” The dragonfly asked in a rather skittish manner, to which Hunter just grunted as he drew another arrow before releasing it! Each time he let loose an arrow, a grublin fell and he seemingly never missed his shots.

Spyro glowed with green energy as he turned into a ball of earth energy, rolling into the crowd of grublins like a flail, carving a path into their crowd which Cynder followed through, letting out a gust of wind to knock them all off balance! She’d cleave into a few with her claws as Spryo came charging back to her side, comet-dashing into a trio of the misshapen creatures, sending them flying into some of their allies.

The two kept tugging against each other when they got too far apart from each other, groaning as they had to adjust to fighting back-to-back. The two fought completely differently, but they also mirrored each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Where Spyro could rend through them with his claws and tank hits which connected on him, he could shrug the hits off better and counter-attack. Cynder was fighting tooth and nail to keep herself from being struck, like a blur she tore through the monsters at lightning-like speed! The grublins were simply too slow to strike at the black dragoness. Her tail whipped around like a scythe as it cut through the monsters, poison lining the blade. If any grublin survived the initial attack from her tail blade, the poison would finish them off in mere seconds following the attack.

All in all, the two were a lethal duo despite their odds with the chain keeping them connected. Hunter could only note that they were clearly frustrated at being tethered together, but he also noted that…they worked extremely well together.

‘Their bond must be stronger than Ignitus could have guessed…or perhaps he knew more than he revealed to me.’ He thought to himself, before sinking another arrow into the head of a grublin which had tried to sneak up on him!

“Orcs!” Hunter called out as another trio of grublins appeared, these ones being taller than the others armed with crude axes. The two dragons had nearly finished off all of the little ones before their gazes fell on the larger of the creatures. They charged to join the battle, axes raised and chanting in their strange, unknowable language!

Hunter stowed his bow and drew a shortsword on his hip as he charged to join the young dragons in battle, not wishing to leave them outnumbered…even if he felt they could handle it. He closed the distance with the one on the far left of the group, sword clashing with the haft of their axe! He was taller than the grublin and stronger, but they were still vicious and lashed out at the cheetah.

Spyro played the fight defensively, green energy surrounding him before he’d raise his forepaws up, slamming down and creating a pillar of earth which uppercut the orc! It fell to the ground with a screech before he lunched at the monster, bashing and cutting at it with his claws!

Cynder, however, went on the attack immediately, her body being surrounded by shadows as she seemingly submerged into the ground! The orc looked around confusedly until the black dragoness sprung right back up and slashed an uppercut to the beast! But the orc didn’t fall back and managed to recover in time to swing her way- they were tough for sure! She avoided the axe and would go in to slash with her tail, but the orc would pull the axe back and block her tail’s attack before it could land.

The orc Spyro was attacking managed to shove the purple dragon away and swung in a flurry of attacks, the blade was so dull it would be lucky to pierce his scales, but it still hurt to be struck by! He blocked with his wings before leaping up to catch the axe’s haft between his jaws, reeling back to disarm the orc, swinging around to sweep their legs out with his tail!

“That’s it Spyro, give’em the ol’ one-two!” Sparx cheered on his adoptive dragon brother!

Cynder managed to recover the offensive against the orc, truthfully they weren’t a great fighter but the two dragons weren’t familiar with how they fought, unlike the brutish apes who relied on pure strength alone. Cynder would note the orc was rather bad at protecting the head, to which she took full advantage of with a gust of wind before letting out a piercing blast of what she liked to call fear-fire! The black and red flames set the orc ablaze, the hideous creature screeching as the flames burnt past their stony skin.

Hunter managed to block and avoid the axe of the orc on him, disarming the orc with his sword before thrusting the sword into the orc’s gut, their dark and corrupted blood painting his blade before it fell to the ground in a heap.

“These creatures are hideous…eugh…the smell isn’t much better.” Cynder gave a disgusted sneer as they were no longer in a haze of battle, the smell of burnt grublin flesh now more than apparent.

Hunter could only chuckle in response. “I’m afraid it doesn’t get better…nor does the smell improve, I’m afraid.”

“That’s unfortunate…” Spyro huffed, he wasn’t as bothered by it, but nothing about these creatures was pleasant. The moment, however, was broken up when the catacombs shook once again and a massive fist rose up and slammed down near them, blocking their to-be exit!

“Oh man oh man…! We’re gonna die…we’re gonna die!” Sparx kept repeating himself, doing his best to not even be seen by the giant monster.

The monster reappeared and let out a shaking roar as it tried to slam it’s fist down onto the ground near them, trying to smoosh the two annoying little dragons which had made it lose an arm! They were quick to move aside, but the creature seemed determined to get one of them and set their sights on Cynder!

It would swing the massive hand back and swatted Cynder into a nearby wall, Spyro skidding along the floor as he was dragged a bit from the impact of the smack!

“Cynder!” He yelped, going to her side to get her up in an instant. He nudged her with his snout and she was quick to reopen her eyes, her own widening like saucers as she suddenly grabbed the purple dragon and rocketed them to the other side of the room with a gust of wind as they avoided another devastating slam from that fist!

They landed with a thud, Cynder rolling atop him! They two eyed each other a moment as their cheeks warmed up some, but they quickly shrugged it off as she clambered to her paws. Hunter drew another arrow back and let it loose, but he didn’t manage to land his shot this time and missed the beast’s eye, dodging aside as it tried to crush the cheetah!

“We can’t fight the golem here, but it’s blocking our path!” Hunter growled, trying again to land a shot! But the arrow just bounced off of the golem’s stone-like skin!

“I’ve got an idea, but I need to get closer to the exit! Follow my lead!” Spyro called out, none of the group argued with him- though Sparx was still hesitant to leave his hiding place! But the two dragons, dragonfly, and cheetah would charge to the entrance. They had to avoid a fist-slam on the way, but once they reached the exit behind Spyro, the golem would reel their fist back once more and go to crush them that instant!

But Spyro would stop at the entrance, confusing them all before green energy surrounded him once more, and with a roar he’d rise up and slam his forepaws back down into the ground! With a shuddering crash, a wall of stone would shoot up from the ground and intercept the golem’s fist before it could crush the group!

“Go, now!” Spyro called, he and Cynder taking to the air before the stone wall could give way to the golem with Sparx after them, Hunter moving in a full sprint after the two young dragons!

Cynder was still reeling from the slap she’d received, slowed down some. She could hear the stone wall come crashing down and she soon saw the fist chasing after her! But she wouldn’t end up grabbed by the monster, she wouldn’t give it the satisfaction as she’d muster her strength to let out another gust of wind, quickly darting out of the passage and away from the golem’s reach!

There was a final tremor-like crash in the tunnel and a roar from behind, but they paid it no mind. All they cared for was escaping the accursed catacombs.

The flying trio followed Hunter as he leapt and darted throughout the cave system leading out of the catacombs. They had guessed they found the way out when they started to feel a draft of air passing through the caves, creeping over their scales, fur and…whatever dragonflies were made of?

“I see some light, should be our exit!” Hunter called back to the flying trio as they darted through the cavern and over the water which was now rushing in the same direction they flew. Moonlight started to peak into the caves, and they spotted what looked like clouds at the mouth of the path!

“Finally, the open sky!” Cynder said happily, having seen enough of the insides of mountains to last a lifetime. Spyro smiled as they flew alongside each other, the cool air of the water going over their scales as they finally exited the mouth.

They were greeted to the gorgeous sight of the Valley of Avalar’s distant fringes, looking down over the expanse from the tip of a waterfall which stemmed from the cave. The celestial moons shined down upon the land like a soft blanket of white light, the greens and blues of the valley pleasing to the eyes.

Spyro marveled at it before his sights fell upon Hunter, who was (seemingly) effortlessly leaping and jumping down the rocky slope leading down from the falls and cave. He could only wonder if all Cheetahs were as agile and skilled as Hunter, or if he was an outlier for his people.

Soon the ground would come into view and the trio would land, giving their wings a moment to rest. Hunter kept his bow at the ready, his eyes carefully darting around.

“I’ll go ahead to find us a spot for a fire which won’t give us away, give it an hour…the valley will be swarming with grublins. When you’re ready-” He’d point one of his paw-like hands up to a tree line past a cliff edge higher up. “-find me there. We’ll rest tonight and start for our destination come dawn. For now, take water while I gather us firewood…and a meal.”

With that, the cheetah was off once again, quickly vanishing into the brush of the woods, leaving the two dragons and Sparx alone.

“Well while he gets food suitable for you three, I’m gonna wrestle with some butterflies and get a bite! I’m starving!” The dragonfly zoomed off into the woods as well.

“Come back and meet us here when you’re done, and stay out of trouble!” Spyro called back, rolling his eyes as the duo turned to the streaming river leading further into the valley. Cynder didn’t say anything before she sat down on her haunches, dipping her long neck down as she’d start to slowly drink from the cool water, a soft and relieved exhale leaving her snout.

Spyro sat down next to her, sitting down on his own haunches as he leaned down to dip his mouth into the water as he began to take deep gulps of the cold and refreshing water. But when he pulled himself back, he turned his attention to the black dragoness to his right…he had always thought Cynder was pretty…but now under the moonlight in these different forms they now seemed to possess after being frozen for three years…

‘Stunning…’ He thought to himself. Spryo took quick note of something else, however.

“Cynder?” He asked softly, getting a glance from her left eye in his direction, but she didn’t stop drinking from the river as she listened to him.

“Where are your anklets? Your tail ring…your choker? I know you were wearing them at the Well of Souls…at least, I remember you wearing them…pretty sure…” The purple dragon fumbled with his words some, earning a bit of a stiff reaction from her as she pulled her muzzle up finally, wiping some water away from her chin.

“While the chronicler spoke to us…I removed and buried them as he spoke to you of your powers.” She said a bit dryly, as if she was hoping this discussion wouldn’t come up.

“But…the guardians enchanted them to protect you from Malefor’s control. I just don’t…I don’t want you to be put at risk.” He sounded sincere, but a dark look crossed her face.

“And this bothers you?!” She hissed, another exhale leaving her snout.

“I…a little…as a matter of fact.” He spoke firmly now, not backing down from her less-than welcoming retort. “Ignitus and Volteer put a lot of work into those enchantments to keep you safe.” 

The memory of how the guardians had taken their own steps into showing their regret for her egg being taken made her heart ache a little. Ignitus most of all only felt sorrow for her plight when she was stolen during the Year of the Dragon.

Even still…this seemed to cut deeper than even he could see.

“They may have changed them for the better…but every time I looked at them in a mirror…I could only remember being the monster who once wore them. They’re from the worst part of my life and I’d sooner bury it than be reminded every day of the fact I was a slave to Gaul and the Apes…a slave to him.” She hissed, and Spyro could only imagine the pain she felt in the memories from serving the Dark Master.

“I will not be the monster they made me…not again, not ever.” She huffed, looking back down into the water and away from Spyro.

At times, Spyro had contemplated Cynder’s life if somehow her egg had been saved.

A life she deserved more.

“You were never a monster, Cynder…I’m not asking you to forget. Never forget what they put you through. I just wish you would stop blaming yourself.” Spyro gave her a firm look, she almost looked like she’d retaliate, but seeing his look told her that she was rushing to judgement.

“I did awful things Spyro…I can’t just act like I’m innocent.” Her shoulders slouched some, wings also flattening and drooping to the ground.

“You didn’t do those things, the Terror of the Skies did. Last I checked, they’ve been lone gone for three years.” He muttered, turned his attention to the water, letting his words sit with her.

They were there for what felt like forever before Sparx returned, alerting them both as he let out a bellowing belch!

“Sparx!” Spyro groaned, rubbing a paw over his face tiredly. Cynder just gave the dragonfly a sneer and eyeroll.

“What?! Just my compliments to…well there’s no chef but those were some pretty tasty moths.” Sparx said with a little chuckle. Spyro turned his attention back to the water, but Sparx wasn’t done.

“So I gotta ask…my voice has changed some. But you two…you’ve literally grown. What’s up with that?” He asked. “You’d think being frozen in time would still have you both looking not a day older than sixteen…” Sparx rubbed his chin, not really knowing how dragon time worked.

“Actually…that’s a good question. When we were stuck like Hunter says we were, we should still look like we did three years ago…but that isn’t the case.” Cynder finally spoke up, turning her head to Spyro.

“I had a theory about that actually…when I used dragon time to freeze us…I was in a way winging it.” He smiled sheepishly. “When I encased us in the crystal, I think…I may have just frozen us in time, but I was still learning dragon time. I think of it…Sparx, you remember some of the gas bubbles that would come up in the swamp? They’d release the fissure gas and it let out air when they’d pop.” He asked of his dragonfly brother, who nodded.

“Yeah, and it smelled awfully, almost as bad as you!” Sparx jabbed, but Spyro didn’t honor him with a retort.

“Well…when the crystal was found by the grublins and opened, I theorize that…the ‘contents’…being us, were released. Time has a certain energy to it and it was merely bottled up in that crystal for three years. Once the crystal opened up, I think we aged three years in a matter of seconds.” Spyro looked between the two of them for their own thoughts.

“If that’s true…we could have been trapped for a thousand years but wither away in seconds if released.” Cynder shuddered at the thought.

“Greeeeeat, I really needed to picture that.” Sparx whined, his light fading ever so slightly. “So you’re saying…or, you think, we aged three years the moment that crystal was popped open. Well, makes sense why you don’t look as round as you used to. That weight had to go somewhere and you got taller.” Sparx would poke the purple dragon again.

“Speaking of three years ago…” Spyro’s gaze fell back into the clear water of the flowing river, looking at himself in the reflection of the water. “I have to ask…my memory has been coming back. But…when the celestial moons aligned the night I fought Gaul…what happened to me?” He asked, though he didn’t turn to face either of his companions.

Cynder and Sparx both froze, their muscles going stiff as they were suddenly at a loss for words. They both remembered the awful sight of Gaul’s body being turned to stone and the chilling sight of the shadowy form of Spyro with those piercing white eyes.

The memory chilled them both to their core.

Sparx looked as if he was about to say something, but Cynder gave him a glare which shut him up.

“No…we don’t remember Spyro. All we remember is the beam of dark aether and you striking down Gaul before we were frozen in time. I’m still recovering my own memory as well.” She tried to move them past this topic for Spyro’s sake more than theirs.

She feared deep down how he’d react to the dark truth of what happened that awful night. What would he say if he was told how he killed Gaul?

“Something…had to have happened. All I remember was falling through the floor when Gaul broke it…only to wake up and feel so drained and you shouting at me to…stop? I…it’s just so frustrating. Something had to happen cause when I woke up Gaul was gone and the mountain was falling apart around us.” Spyro seemed distraught about it, and Cynder felt guilty about hiding the truth. But she felt as if it was the right call to not tell him the full extent yet.

“Yeah…sorry bro but I’m drawing a blank.” Sparx said, giving Cynder an understanding nod. “But maybe we’ll figure it out another time.”

Before they could say anything more, a flame-lit arrow shot up from the tree line above them.

“Looks like the cool cat’s back.” Sparx tried to change the subject. “We best get up there.” Cynder nodded and went to Spyro as she nudged him a bit, and he just let out a sigh before they lifted off the ground, turning to fly where Hunter had signaled them from with Sparx close by.

Hunter had made quick work of gathering firewood, filling up waterskins, and finding some game for them to fill their bellies in the form of a trio of rabbits.

Hunter was catching them up to speed on what had transpired while they were frozen away, a skewered rabbit in his hand as he told the story.

“After the Night of Eternal Darkness, Malefor returned to the world and created his new layer…which he has suspended above the land in the Burned Lands past the Belt of Fire.” He accented his point as he directed his skewered rabbit to the menacing fortress far above the volcano in the dark region off in the distance from the valley.

Cynder and Spyro could only shiver some at the sight, the dark and floating fortress suspended above the active volcano had a dominating presence…deep down it churned in their bellies to think that Malefor had created it in such short time.

“What about the apes?” Cynder asked, though there was some poison to her her voice before she bit down into some rabbit, taking out her anger for the very race in that bite it seemed.

Spyro, and even Sparx sometimes, worried about her when she got that way. Even back at the temple three years ago, she had moments where she lashed out at the very thought of the apes.

“Ah…Malefor returned to the world and was presented a leaderless apes. He rewarded them for their lack of loyalty to him with a curse…at least, that’s what my people believe. We haven’t seen them ever since he returned, but I don’t imagine the bounty they were given was what Gaul promised them for their service to the Dark Master.” Hunter rubbed his chin.

“So, the grublins…they serve him now?” Spyro asked, having a bite of rabbit, to which Sparx gagged some from the prospect of eating meat.

“Yes…a rather tragic race they are. Malefor created them after the apes vanished, they know only violence. We cannot reason with them, nor can we strive for peace with their race. Unlike the apes who served Malefor by choice…the grublins were created to serve him. They’re bred to bring an end to the world of dragons and nothing more.” Hunter explained. “We know not how to fully speak their language, but some of the dragons attempted to learn it and during the long three years we waited for your return, some attempted contact with the grublins…it only ended with violence and never bore fruit.”

Spyro sighed sadly, earning a raised brow from Hunter and Sparx, while Cynder gave him a sympathetic look. She never shied away from fighting and defending herself, but the purple dragon had a good heart and he never liked seeking fights unless necessary.

She draped a wing over him subconsciously, making his cheeks warm up. She hadn’t realized what her body did but…it was happening.

“So, there’s no way to make peace with them?” Spyro asked, hoping for some good response from Hunter…only for the cheetah to shake his head.

“I wish it were possible Spyro, but they’re bent upon our destruction. Nothing less will satisfy them as it is what their master created them to believe.” He leaned forward, having another bite of his rabbit as he took a breather before continuing.

A piercing screech sounded from above, drawing their gazes to the sky as a feathery figure soared down towards the group. In the light of the fire came the shape of a gorgeous falcon as Hunter raised an arm for it to perch on one of his gloves.

“Ana.” He smiled, ripping off some of the rabbit as he offered the falcon a small sliver of the meat before turning his gaze back to Spyro and Cynder. “She has been my closest companion for many winters. She carries messages for me in short time and acts as my eyes in the sky.” The cheetah explained.

Spyro and Cynder admired the pretty bird of prey…while Sparx cowered in fear behind one of Spyro’s horns as the bird darted it’s gaze around those present.

“Don’t let it eat me!” He cowered, earning a scoff from Cynder.

“Fear not Sparx, she wouldn’t attempt to do so unless I ordered…probably.” The cheetah smiled, earning an annoyed frown from Sparx, while he reached down to one of his pockets and retrieved a small scroll of paper, the falcon taking it into one of their talons.

“Tell Ignitus I’ve found them.” He ordered, letting the falcon take off into the sky once more, vanishing into the night.

He turned back to the dragons and Sparx, raising the rabbit up to finish off before setting his skewer stick aside. Spyro and Cynder had finished their own rabbits shortly before, it wasn’t enough to fill their bellies fully but it would keep them appeased for now.

Spyro glanced down at the translucent rope connecting him to Cynder.

“Do you know what this is, Hunter?” Spyro asked of the cheetah, who shook his head grimly.

“Afraid not young dragon…I’ve never seen anything like it.” Hunter frowned; it was clear he didn’t like being uninformed.

“I find it pretty funny seeing you two bicker when you get caught up on it.” Sparx chuckled as he watched the two of them, earning another scowl from Cynder.

“We just have to accept that we’re stuck with it…maybe we can get help breaking it off when we return to the guardians.” Cynder suggested, and Spyro just gave her a nod in agreement. Cynder however returned her gaze to Hunter.

“What about that monster that attacked us, Hunter? You called it a…golem?” Cynder asked softly. “I thought the golems were just myths after studying with Cyril.”

“I’m afraid that old belief couldn’t be further from the truth. They’re the embodiment of destruction and were awakened by Malefor himself to serve in his mission. Though that one…it was easily the largest of the ones we’ve seen. The guardians have confronted a few before but not so large…we’re lucky to have made it out of the catacombs safely.” Hunter seemed to be deep in thought regarding the golems.

“We’ve been at war ever since Malefor’s arrival, the dragons numbers rallied to the guardians but they’ve only ever been minimal…the rest of their forces lose hope by the day.” He let out a heavy sigh.

Spyro also had a worried look on his face, eyes looking down at the ground.

Sparx knew his brother all too well to know he was just ‘fine’.

“Hey bro, you alright?” Sparx asked of Spyro.

“No…I’m really not, Sparx. If I hadn’t vanished for three years, I could have stopped this from happening maybe! I could have stood against Malefor and kept this from getting worse.” Spyro stammered, his wings furled with frustration.

“Spyro man we’re barely past being teenagers now, I’m sorry to say this but if the big bad dragons back then couldn’t actually stop Malefor and had to trap him instead, I’m not so sure you could beat him either.” Sparx tried to affirm Spyro’s actions.

“He’s right Spyro, had you been here, Malefor could have come after you before you were prepared. If you had been struck down then, all hope would have died in that moment.” Hunter comforted the purple dragon. “You have a chance to prepare further to face him now.”

“But if I hadn’t been gone for three years I could have spent it training to face him if I-.”

“If you hadn’t come to save me.” Cynder sighed, sadly looking at the ground now, Spyro’s amethyst gaze darted to her in an instant, regretting his choice of words.

“N-no…I don’t regret coming to find you in the Well of Souls.” He gave her a sad look. “I wouldn’t let you be killed or turned back to Malefor’s side…I wouldn’t let you be used again.” Spyro said firmly now, rising back to a standing position before he instead sat on his haunches. “If I had to make the choice again, I would.”

Cynder would have said something to retort, but his confident expression in regards to the decision he made said everything. He spoke no lies. He had no regrets about coming to her aid.

Before they could share more words, a flash of green energy surged out of the brush and struck Cynder! She collapsed in an instant, eyes shut and unresponsive.

“Hey is she that sleepy?” Sparx asked, Spyro spinning around to the brush before he too was stuck by another green bolt, out cold like Cynder was!

Sparx could only wince as one came flying at him, the dragonfly falling to the ground between the two dragons.

Hunter was on his feet in an instant, but his bow was lowered when he saw familiar figures appearing from the brush, stowing his bow and simply raising his paws up in surrender

“Oh no…” He let out in a breathy sigh.

Chapter Text

Spyro’s eyes finally began to stir, and he was greeted to a bright flash of light once again, the sounds of birds chirping and wildlife all around. His head quickly shot up as he took in his surroundings. He was surrounded by simple huts and tents encircled by a high-standing wall seemingly protecting this community from wandering eyes.

He glanced around only to spot Cynder, Sparx…who was currently held in a tiny cage, and Hunter who was currently cuffed to the post they surrounded. His amethyst gaze looked upward, seeing the magical rope keeping he and Cynder tethered together was now looped through a…jade? That’s what he thought it was anyway…a jade lock.

Cynder quickly noticed Spyro was awake, and she craned her slender neck to meet his gaze.

“Glad to see you’ve decided to rejoin the living.” She smiled, albeit weakly given their current predicament.

“What happened?” He asked, glancing back at the snake chain. “All I remember was us talking by the fire last night and then nothing...” He rubbed his head with a paw, trying to shake off the drowsiness his head was currently plagued by.

“We were found and taken prisoner…by my people.” Hunter spoke up, his gaze turned to the ground beneath him, earning a raised brow from Spyro.

“Your people…the cheetahs?” Spyro asked, earning a nod from Hunter. But soon whatever questions Spyro had were diminished as they saw a small troop of cheetahs approaching them! They came in various shades of blue, yellow, orange, and red as Spyro took notice of more movement throughout the village. The ones approaching were armed with spears and bows strapped to their backs.

At the center of their small formation was another cheetah of a similar color to Hunter, though a bit darker, a more reddish hue versus their companion’s orange fur. His eyes were an icy blue that didn’t look quite as friendly as the soft teal eyes Hunter had. He had a notched ear and a grisly trio of scars that lined his left eye and trailed down his cheek.

“Dragons…always damn dragons. I say it once…I say it a thousand times before…don’t get mixed up with the war beyond our territory. And yet here you are Hunter, getting involved with the affairs of the world that don’t involve us. Have you so little respect for our laws, Hunter? So little care for the safety of our people that you make your own alliance with the ones who caused our misfortunes?” The leader asked, his voice was a low, gravely drone unlike Hunter’s smooth and more enriched tone.

“Prowlus you know I have nothing but love for our people. I left to protect them…because our hopes to protect this world lie in these young dragons. Malefor alone is the cause of those misfortunes, not Spyro! You said we wouldn’t act despite the clear threat to our home, what was I supposed to do? Sit and wait for the enemy to march upon the valley?!” Hunter growled in response to Prowlus, who looked less than pleased with that response.

“Yes of course, the fabled second purple dragon destined to put an end to the dark times. Think of me as a fool if you wish, but do not say I’m forgetful. I know the stories, but I have also not forgotten what they say Malefor was like when he was but a child.” Prowlus huffed, his eyes starting daggers into Spyro, who seemed to falter ever so slightly under his gaze.

Hunter was about to retort, but Prowlus beat him to it.

“And don’t think I’ve so easily forgotten what she has done.” Prowlus growled, pointing his shortsword at Cynder, who stared defiantly at the older cheetah, Spyro raising a wing between the two defensively.

“Hey man, even I don’t think that’s really called for.” Sparx protested, he may have had a distrust for Cynder and never ceased to remind her about it…but he also couldn’t help but feel some pity for the black dragoness when he suddenly saw others treat her in such a fashion. All he earned was a scoff from Prowlus before he turned his attention back to Hunter.

“I trusted you Hunter, as Chief I rely on everyone here in the valley and in every village to do their part to keep us safe! But you brought the dangers of the world outside our territory here…right to our own home! You’ve put us at risk by bringing these two dragons to the valley.” Prowlus got dangerously close to Hunter, who was staring just as defiantly back into his Chief’s eyes.

“The dangers of the outside world –” Hunter almost spat the words as he mocked Prowlus. “-are already encroaching upon our homeland, don’t pretend to ignore it and place blame on these two!” Hunter said challengingly.

“Can you two wrap this up? This is really awkward and feels a bit too personal to just shout about in the open in front of strangers.” Sparx attempted to break the two up as he rather didn’t like these sorts of arguments when he had no stakes involved.

A horn pierced their ears as it was blown from further in the cheetah village!

“Grublins approaching, defend the village!” They heard a voice cry out from the wall. The cheetahs surrounding Prowlus quickly fell back and charged off towards the gate of the wall. The rest of the group at the totem glanced up and sure enough, a group of grublins were flying directly for the cheetah village, firebombs in their hands as they began to fly through arrows being fired at them to begin setting the cheetah homes alight!

“Now see what you’ve wrought, Hunter?! As I expected would happen!” Prowlus snapped at the younger cheetah.

Spyro tried to rush off but was held back by the chain still, huffing as it continued to frustrate the young dragon.

“Let us go and we’ll help defend your village!” Spyro tried to convince the chief to release them, only earning a scowl from Prowlus.

“Our warriors can handle this.” The old cheetah said, some pride in his voice. But the sound of the earth giving way at the gate alerted the chief and he realized that not only were there grublin flies attacking from the air, but grublin troops now engaging their warriors at the gateway! They’d be too busy helping keep the grublins at the gate at bay to stop the ones starting fires through the village, the cheetah civilians running from the flames now!

“Now isn’t the time to be stubborn you idiot! We can help and we’re willing!” Cynder barked at the chief.

“Hey, chief guy? This is what these two do best, taking down monsters and saving people. I’d let them help if I were you, ‘cause those fires aren’t going out any quicker.” Sparx tried to reason with him, and the chief just let out a heavy sigh before he reached down to retrieve his keys. He’d slide the jade key into the lock and the chain connecting Spyro and Cynder would snap back to a shorter distance between the two of them…he’d also reach up and release Sparx as he just wanted nothing more to do with the dragonfly.

He turned his gaze to Hunter, however, and put his keys back.

“If I can’t trust you to obey our laws, I can’t trust you to defend the village!” Prowlus growled, the other cheetah giving him a hurt look, an apologetic stare from the two dragons in contrast.

Spyro wanted nothing more than to protest, but the fires raging in the village demanded their attention, and so he gave Hunter a final glance before he and Cynder rushed off to help defend the cheetahs. Prowlus raised his sword and went rushing off to the gate to help his people fight off the invaders there, leaving Hunter alone at the totem.

The two young dragons crashed into the grublin flies, Cynder striking at them with siren wails that tore their fragile minds asunder and leaving them disorientated, followed by Spyro unleashing a hail of lightning that chained from fly to fly!

Some of them fell dead but others readied their firebombs and pressed the attack. Spyro quickly assessed the situation, huts and buildings on fire. Cynder’s only element that could help them was wind…but there was a chance that it could make the fires worse or spread it to other buildings.

“I’m going to try putting the fires out, keep me covered!” Spyro called back to his dragoness companion, who took a defensive posture so the purple dragon could do what was needed!

The flies got close and Cynder immediately lashed out at them, swatting them away like…well, flies! Her claws glowed green with acid-like poison which burnt through their rough hides with rapid ease, screeching almost bird-like as she span around, her tail glowing green and dripping with the same poison that corroded and burnt through the grublins!

Spyro on the other hand took the time the black dragoness was buying by breathing in heavily before unleashing a heavy gust of frost, fizzling out and steaming in contact with the fire as it began to fight back the flames! It was a strain to maintain the steady blast of frost, but he was determined to ensure the hut didn’t burn down.

The cheetahs at the gate of the village were more than a match for the grublins attacking, but the numbers presented were more than enough to keep the proud warriors occupied while the flies did the vile job of assaulting their homes. Prowlus swung his sword left and right, cutting through the monsters with ease, not even really breaking a sweat even as he was surrounded by the foes! His warriors swung and thrust with their spears, slicing through and impaling the beasts on their weapons!

Spyro let out a few more strands of frost dance with the flames before they fizzled out, sighing with relief as they had successfully put out at least one hut.

Three more to go…

Cynder huffed as she had finished off the last of the flies, more of an annoyance to the black dragoness than an actual threat.

Sparx had been hiding away from the flames the entire time, just watching as the two dragons worked in tandem with each other like they had in the catacombs. But his gaze went to the sky as he saw a few figures approaching the village…they looked almost dragon-y!

“Are those…?” Sparx asked himself before he flew above the village, trying to get a better view. “…Spyro! I think I see dragons coming!” He cheered, Spyro and Cynder’s gazes darting to the sky as they also tried to get a look at the flying figures.

But it was rapidly becoming clear to Sparx that it was anything but dragons, taking shape as hideous creatures…and it was a dead giveaway when they began snarling in their hideous tones as they got ever closer to the village!

“Not dragons…NOT DRAGONS!” Sparx cried out, shooting back to the protection of his adoptive dragon brother!

“Wyverns incoming!” A cheetah archer called out, a few arrows flying into the sky as the cheetahs attempted to bring them down! But it was for naught as the flying beasts pressed into the village and charged the dragons! Spyro and Cynder were in for a hard fight, these creatures were larger than the juvenile dragons and could fly to boot.

Spyro’s mouth would gargle with flames as he sent a fireball at the wyverns, the leading one took the fireball and staggered some, but the blast merely hurt the creature but the strange creature continued its charge undeterred once it recovered.

To make matters worse, in one of the nearby huts a voice called out!

“Help! Please!” A feminine voice called from the building. Spyro and Cynder’s gazes turned to the hut, the two quickly dashing back as they’d try to aid whoever was inside, but they were quickly intercepted by the wyverns as one of them crashed into the black dragoness. Cynder yelped as she clawed and bit at the hideous creature!

“Cynd-!” Spyro barked out as he tried to intercept the wyvern, only for another to throw itself in his way! He snarled before pulling off a comet-dash, horns bashing into the wyvern hard and causing the beast to stagger and land on the ground in a heap! But before he could follow up, another wyvern descended upon the purple dragon and tail-bashed the dragon into the ground!

Cynder would vanish into a cloud of shadows as she sank into the ground once again, the wyvern no longer faced with its foe, before she rematerialized from the inky-black spot on the ground and throwing herself onto it’s back as she bit down into the Wyvern’s neck! She bit down hard and twisted, the wyvern screeching in pain as it tried to throw the black dragoness off its back to no avail! She latched on with her razor-sharp claws, digging into the hideous creature’s back and drawing corrupted blood!

Spyro regained his footing and charged up an electric strike, the yellow energy dancing across his scales as he released it with a loud *ZAP*, the wyvern which had struck him down surged as the energy shot directly into their body! It twitched and writhed in pain as the one he had comet-dashed attacked once more, but Spyro would release an earth blast, the green energy stopping the wyvern in their tracks as if it had struck an invisible wall!

The wyvern Cynder was biting down into succumbed to the poison she poured into its veins, falling to the ground as she rolled off the fallen creature! She’d unleash another siren’s wail towards the last wyvern, the red energy coursing through it and having the beast screech in evident fear as both their visions were filled with illusions of monstrous figures and hearing was deafened by terrifying shrieks!

Spyro would dig a tail into the ground and would have it glow, reeling back as he’d swing a chunk of rock into the wyvern he’d stopped in their tracks with a hefty earth-flail! Terrador had taught him this ability, though for the earth guardian it had been much easier due to his clubbed tail.

“Cynder go!” He called back to his companion, who was about to press the attack on the wyvern she’d hit with her siren wails, before remembering the voice calling from the hut! She turned back and would shift into the shadows once more, vanishing past the burning door of the hut, and leaving Spyro to hold the wyverns off!

He was relieved as several arrows soared out and sank into the back of one of the wyverns, cheetahs charging into the fight with their spears raised! He wouldn’t abandon the fight however as he’d unleash an ice spike from his jaw, blasting it directly into the torso of one of the wyverns! The flying grublin writhed in pain before it slowly collapsed to the ground in a heap.

A gust of wind alerted him as the door of the hut behind him flew open and snapped like it was merely made of sticks! Cynder blew some of the flames out of the way as a female cheetah holding a wrapped up cub ran out of the building, clutching her child to her chest.

“Bless you dragon!” The mother cried out as she fled to the safety of the part of the village not currently under attack!

Cynder panted some as she was finally free of the smothering hut, she wasn’t as suited to be exposed to harsh flames like Spyro was…especially seeing as he could wield actual fire and she couldn’t.

“Next time, you get to rush into the burning building!” Cynder said pointedly as she assessed the fight, quickly taking note that the cheetahs finished off the remaining wyverns and those at the gate had cleared out the annoying grublin fodder.

Spyro smiled at her words, but he quickly pulled the two of them away as they went to work about putting out the fires of the remaining huts! Several cheetahs began running to the nearby streaming river and carrying water over to assist the effort, doing their best to save their homes before more damage could be done.

At last the fires were out, Spyro and Cynder had managed to combine their ice and wind powers together to swiftly pout out two more huts while the cheetahs doused the flames of another…but they did lose one of the larger huts before they could ensure it didn’t collapse. Sad as it was, losing one hut was better than losing many more.

The cheetahs picked themselves up and dusted off, trying to salvage anything that survived the collapsed hut. Prowlus sheathed his sword and looked around quickly.

“Is everyone okay?” He asked aloud. “If any of you are seriously injured see Talshanni immediately, otherwise continue working to secure the damage! Any casualties?” The chief asked.

“No casualties chief, thanks to the two dragons and their swift thinking.” One of his guards would answer the chief, though a darker look crossed his blue furred face. “But…sir, Meadow is still missing. Some of the men want to go and find him! He never returned from his fishing venture.”

Prowlus’ face hardened, he was clearly conflicted.

“No…so soon after an attack, it’s too risky to mount a search right now…I’m sorry but we cannot leave the village vulnerable should the grublins return.” Prowlus’ gaze turned to the ground. It was clear he was no happier than the rest of his people for not setting out immediately to find the missing cheetah.

“We’ll go.” A voice drew their attention, several gazes falling upon Spyro. Cynder almost looked as if she’d protest, but seeing the hopeful look in some of the cheetahs’ eyes made her rethink that choice.

“Why?” Prowlus asked, his eyes meeting Spyro’s as their icy blues met the dragon’s amethyst gaze inquisitively.

“Because someone is in danger and I’m in a position to help. My only request that Hunter come with us.” Spyro glanced at the still-restrained cheetah cuffed to the totem, Hunter not meeting his gaze for the moment.

Prowlus seemed to hesitate, thinking about his words carefully.

“Hunter stays here, young dragon, but you’re free to search after Meadow as you see fit. He fishes at the northern end of the river usually…I’d begin a search there. But if you keep your word and return with Meadow, I’ll…reconsider my stance on you journeying with Hunter.” His words were almost…friendly? More welcoming than how he had previously spoken to the dragons.

“But-.” Prowlus continued, his voice going cold again. “-don’t bother returning to the village without him as you’ll likely only succeed in drawing more grublins here.” The chief’s gaze hardened as he stepped away from the two dragons, leaving them to their own devices.

“Seriously bro, why do you volunteer us for hero duty?” Sparx asked, his shoulders slumping as he’d been looking forward to doing little to nothing after the fight for the village had ended.

“For once…I’m sort of in agreement with Sparx.” Cynder said quietly, earning a sheepish look from Spyro, his cheeks warming up some under their collective gazes. Sparx, however, looking as if he’d pass out!

“You…agree with me on something? You both sure we’re not still frozen?” He asked.

The trio set out from the cheetah village without Hunter at their side, feeling a bit lost in the valley. But they had said they’d find Meadow and bring him back home. They intended to keep their word for the sake of freeing Hunter.

The two were greeted to the grand view which was the Valley of Avalar in bright daylight. Rolling fields of lush green with droves of beautiful flowers and other forms of natural beauty.

“Avalar is…gorgeous.” Cynder said softly as the two dragons flew overhead, their shadows crossing over the sunlit ground.

“It is…” Spyro admired the landscape, it reminded him somewhat of Tall Plains, though more green and not as overrun by nature. It was also not a jungle, to which he was thankful. Traversing Tall Plains had been a hassle for the purple dragon, especially while dealing with the apes at every turn.

Cynder, however, was still new to being able to experience such lovely sights with her own eyes.

“I feel like…I remember everything from my time as the…Terror…but I also feel as if I’m seeing the world for the first time with my own eyes. My real eyes…like everything I did was just a bad dream, and I can finally admire the world around me. It is…spectacular in so many ways.” Cynder explained, earning a smile from Spyro. Sparx thought it was extremely sappy, but he’d let the black dragoness have their moment.

The two flew for quite some time in a calm silence, they had some encounters with the wyverns or grublin flies, but for the most part they went unimpeded simply due to the fact that most of the grublins were restrained to the ground where they couldn’t bother the trio as they soared above the ground.

Sparx of course was of little help in these engagements, but Spyro and Cynder were more than capable of handling the monsters whenever they attacked the dragons and dragonfly.

Mostly unscathed and still fresh for their quest, the trio found a spot by the river where a fishing rod was snapped in two and obvious signs of a scuffle.

“I think Meadow was here…but they could only go south from here if they took him away into the valley…” Spyro muttered, looking back and forth over the site.

“…Then they may not be far away.” Cynder would finish Spyro’s thought, their eyes still scanning over the tucked away corner of the valley, taking immediate note of an opening in the hills further into the woods.

“Oh of course…bad guys drag an innocent person into an abandoned cave…we’ve never seen that one done before!” Sparx complained, as if he was disappointed in the grublins more than anything.

Spyro and Cynder slowly entered the cave with Sparx in between them both, their guards up and ready for any attacks from the grublins…but their attention was drawn to a figure that came into view. They quickly found a cheetah hanging on a wall by several boulders which were tethered to the stone.

“Meadow!” Spyro called out, the cheetah’s reddish-violet eyes snapping open upon hearing his name called.

“C-careful…! They’re all around us…!” Meadow managed, clearly he was in some pain as he tried to warn the young dragons, but the two were caught completely off guard when several grublins and orcs shot from the ground and walls in an eruption of stone bursting around them!

Spyro and Cynder were surrounded, the two moving back to back as the beasts closed in on them from all ends. Spyro had only one idea come to mind which could get them out of this without draining their energy reserves.

“Get down!” Spyro calls out as his scales are surrounded by a violet-purple hue. Cynder’s eyes widened into saucers before she grabbed Sparx and ducked to the ground as Spyro’s energy seemed to explode in a brilliant flash of aether!

He opened his jaws wide and unleased a beam of convexity, tearing through the very physical forms of the grublins as he unleashed the terrible power on them! It rang out in the cave in a loud, blaring cry almost as he used some of his own strength to muster the aether into reality.

Once he was done, almost half the grublins were piles of ash left behind from his unrelenting blast of aether, Cynder and Sparx glanced up stunned. But there were still more grublins to be handled.

“Fine, two can play at that, showoff!” Cynder huffed as she tossed Sparx aside, earning a whining groan from the dragonfly as she mustered a power similar to Spyro’s own which he had just mustered. But instead of a brilliant violet-purplish hue, they were greeted with a darker and twisted purple energy, less focused and erratically flashing, surrounding the black dragoness before she unleashed a beam of her own ability.

“Dark aether…” Spyro’s eyes narrowed, taking a step back as he watched Cynder unleash the dark form of convexity upon the grublins. Instead of turning the grublins to ash on contact, the beam petrified them all into stone before their bodies split apart and turned into dust.

The remaining grublins, four simple foot soldiers, saw all their comrades be wiped out by the two dragons…they quickly vanished back into the ground beneath them, abandoning the fight before it had even truly began.

Meadow groaned as the stones holding him to the wall split apart and he fell to the ground in a thud.

“I…never knew you could wield dark aether.” Spyro said, sounding both astonished and…scared in a way. Cynder glanced back at her purple friend, an almost regretful look in her eyes.

“Like you found out in the catacombs Spyro…there’s a lot you don’t truly know about me. Malefor made me to be somewhat of an equal to a purple dragon. In truth…all he did was make a more twisted and less impressive knockoff which served as his attack dog.” Cynder turned away from Spyro, not wishing to feel judgmental eyes upon her further.

But what she got instead shocked her to her core.

“You’re full of surprises.” Spyro’s tone shifted some, becoming warmer. She glanced back, meeting his eyes. Those bright amethyst eyes conveyed no sense of anger or betrayal…admiration instead.

It made the fact she was hiding the truth about what happened at the Well of Souls all the more painful to her.

Thankfully Sparx broke the need for her to come up with some form of response.

“Uhhhh…we gonna help the guy we came here to save?” The dragonfly asked, floating down near the cheetah who slowly got into a sitting position. Cynder could have hugged Sparx in that instant for catching Spyro’s attention, the two approaching Meadow now as he seemed to shrug off whatever pain he had endured.

“Thank you…you saved my life.” Meadow said gratefully, a walking stick in his hand as he reached to the side to grasp it.

“You were in trouble; we were glad to help.” Spyro said with a smile, before his eyes fell to the cheetah’s legs…one was shifted a bit awkwardly. “Can you walk?”

Meadow would attempt to stand, but his eyes brimmed with pain as he tried to get to his feet.

“I’m sorry…but my left leg is broken. Just…return to my village, tell them I’m safe now and to send someone to get me.” He affirms. “Prowlus will surely be out looking for me.”

“I’m sorry…grublins attacked your village and they’re on high alert even now. Your leader doesn’t trust us and told us not to return unless it was with you. If we go back now he’ll likely assume the worst has befallen you.” Spyro sighed, the reaction he got from Meadow said it was the last thing he wanted to hear.

“And he’ll likely blame us for it.” Cynder added, stepping next to Spyro.

“Ahhhhh…!” Meadow groaned, his eyes slamming shut. “Prowlus you fool…very well. There is a raft on the far end of the valley, docked in the fishing stand there. If you bring it here, I could climb aboard and be pulled back to the village. But it’s not so simple…the river’s pull on that end is far too strong and needs counter-weights to allow the boat to be rowed…or pulled…against the current.” Meadow explained, he looked just as annoyed as Cynder did.

“But…to get access to the weights, you must unlock the supply gate…but…the key was taken by a hermit who lives past the hills on the opposing end beneath a waterfall. You’ll need to find him…how you get the key is up to you.” Meadow finished, leaning back as he clutched his leg.

“Alright…stay here, we’ll come back for you once we’re able.” Spyro said confidently, but just as he and Cynder were about to leave the cave, Meadow called back.

“One more thing euuhhh…I never got your names.” Meadow called.

“I’m Cynder and he’s Spyro. The annoying bug is Sparx.” Cynder called back to the cheetah.

“I must warn you two dragons…do not linger where the hermit lives for long. Our scouts have given reports of…dark things stalking the woods there…that area of the valley has become unsafe to patrol. I wish you both luck all the same.” He waves them off before leaning back once more.

The journey to the far end of the valley was mostly uneventful, the two flying through the cavern leading to the opposing end of the hills separating the lush green forests and river from the rest of the woods. The two took quick note of the much more…overwhelming feeling this side of the forest possessed.

The woods weren’t as lush and were much more overgrown. They felt as if every move they made was being watched…how right they were.

They spotted the falls where the hermit supposedly lived after getting past several wind tunnels, the gusts so strong that they had to make use of Cynder’s wind element to enable them to pass through safely without being tossed around!

The trio landed a short distance away from the fall when the trees and brush around them began to twitch and shake. Cynder was the first to notice as her emerald eyes narrowed dagger-like as shapes began to take form in the brush! Her muzzle wrinkled, teeth showing as she sensed them growing closer.

“We’re not alone.” She says in a quiet hiss, Spyro was stiff, and his muscles shifted some as his own body shifting into a defensive stance as they awaited the attack to come.

Sparx however was oblivious to the danger. “What now?” The annoying dragonfly asked rather loudly, and almost as if in response the trees and bushes around them exploded with energy as the horrifying creatures emerged! Large skeletal beings chittering and crackling as they charged the trio!

“ME AND MY BIG FAT MOUTH!” Sparx shouted as he quickly ducked behind his purple brother!

Spyro didn’t wait before he let out a blast of fire at one of the skeletons, deterring it some but not stopping them! Cynder would go for a more direct approach as she opened her mouth and released a blast of acidic poison which tore through one of the skeletons, melting their bones with ease! It trudged forward some more before falling into a pile of its own bones!

They were on the two in moments, Spyro and Cynder forced to take defensive fighting postures as the creatures lashed out at the young dragons! A pair of them clawed and grabbed for Spyro, who in turn would lash out with his strong paws, causing one to fall apart after a few swings before being replaced by another!

Cynder would put all the effort into her muscles which she could muster and lifted one off the ground with her forepaws and hindpaws, lifting them a bit off the ground while ignoring their lashing before she used a wind blast to send the creature flying into several of the others that scurried at them from the woods!

The way they lashed out that the two dragons…even in this state, something about it sat too familiarly with Spyro. And it made him angry. He didn’t know why but just being back-to-back with Cynder as they fought the odd skeletal beings just made his blood start to fume.

Little did he know Cynder was feeling a similar effect, her anger levels rising as the strange beings struck her dark scales! She screeched before spinning around to slash at one with her tail, following up with a pair of clawed strikes seeking to tear it apart!

“Spyro-!” She growls before reeling back another strike, shadow energy engulfing her paw before she struck deep into the next skeleton in her way, twisting before  rematerializing to pull it apart from within while the figure feebly tried to bash at the dragoness! “Is it just me or do these things feel familiar?!” She called back to her friend, who barely heard the black dragoness speak as he used an earth flail attack to crush two of the skeletons in a single strike!

“I won’t say anything about them til we know more, maybe the hermit can help enlighten us!” Spyro growled as he clawed at another of the skeletons.

The ones on Cynder shoved her to the ground as she was finally overwhelmed, one of the skeletons grabbing her and throwing her down once more with a loud thud! She let out an airy gasp of pain as they swarmed her.

“S-stop! Leave her alone!” Spyro called out, leaving Sparx to flee in terror as the few remaining on their side began chasing after Spyro!

Spyro turned to see how they attacked Cynder, his boiling blood growing even hotter as he comet-dashed directly into the crowd! But his very scales seemed to shimmer with energy as the purple dragon slammed into the skeletons attacking his dragoness companion, fire EXPLODING all around him in an inferno of scorching blazes!

“Spyro you trying to roast me bro?!” Sparx cried out as he narrowly missed the combustion of flame while the skeletons caught in the blast were burnt into ashes all around where the purple dragon had made impact with the ones on Cynder!

When the smoke cleared, Cynder and Spyro were surrounded by a ring of charring burns seared into the grass and brush around them. The only untouched patch of grass in their proximity was the small section that rested beneath them, Spyro standing over her defensively now.

Cynder couldn’t help but feel her cheeks warm, but the feeling faded as she noted the rage in Spyro’s eyes…something else was clawing at his mind.

“Spyro?” She asked quietly, his gaze turning to her. He seemed to register her for a moment, before his muscles finally went lax…though not completely. It was clear there was still some brewing tension in the back of his mind.

“I…didn’t know I could do that with a comet dash.” Spyro said almost in awe, though his teeth were almost gritting as he said it.

“Me either…also…can I get up?” She asked quickly, the purple dragon’s cheeks warming up as he silently moved off from over her, letting Cynder get back up, though she felt a bit sore after the rough treatment she’d received from the skeletons a moment ago.

“Well if you’re done trying to burn down the forest, we’ve got company.” Sparx spoke up now that he wasn’t fleeing from rushing flames. Their attentions went to a figure by the falls.

“Must be the hermit…let’s go.” Spyro said, though his scales still burned with power from the previous engagement. The fact the power hadn’t receded was a matter for concern with the black dragoness.

Cynder worried about him, but she remained silent…for now.

The two dragons approached a small crevice and cave near the falls. Spyro noted Sparx had seemingly vanished once they grew close to the cave…perhaps he was simply hiding in case more of those creatures showed up.

The hermit was a cheetah, a light grayish blue hue to his fur…and curiously, he had golden toned eyes behind the hood he wore…eyes that held many stories and many years of experience.

“Come closer…my eyes don’t work so well anymore.” The hermit spoke, staff tapping against the ground. Spyro and Cynder edged closer and the hermit’s gaze narrowed some. “So…you return here once again.” The hermit spoke, his voice low and raspy, older age evident.

“I’ve never met you before…?” Spyro trailed off, not knowing what to call the hermit except…well, hermit didn’t sound appropriate to call someone.

“Not you…her.” The hermit pointed at Cynder, who narrowed her eyes at the cheetah.

“I don’t follow…” Cynder muttered, earning a chuckle from the hermit as he leaned down some.

“Indeed…indeed…can it be?” He asked of no one in particular, before opening his mouth to speak once more. “Your appearance has…changed…not as tall as you once were. But your eyes tell me everything. They are the telltale of the past…you are Cynder, the Terror of the Skies.” Cynder flinched at hearing that name be uttered in such a cold tone. “The Dark Master’s puppet…his ultimate weapon.”

“That’s not who I am anymore!” Cynder barked out, shrinking back as the words resonated with her. “I’m no longer his attack dog. I…I’m not proud of the things I’ve done, but I’m trying to make amends!” She defended herself.

“Is that so? Is it so easy to suddenly wrest control from Malefor’s paws?” The hermit smirked from his hood, the staff in his hands shifting some. Spyro’s gaze darkened as he took a step forward, a wing defensively raising over Cynder’s back.

“We don’t need to listen to this Cynder.” He countered. The hermit noted the purple dragon’s stance and raised one of his hands and pointed up. Spyro and Cynder turned their gazes to a cliff above the falls, taking note of several more of the skeletons they’d fought against earlier.

“I’m surprised you didn’t recognize the beasts that haunt this part of the woods. The apes too served Malefor once, though for their own greed…not out of true loyalty to him or his cause!” The hermit’s gaze hardened, but Spyro and Cynder’s eyes widened into saucers…these things were apes! Their old enemy…the original servants of the Dark Master.

“This is their gift from Malefor…his reward for their service. Cursed to roam the world as mere specters of their former selves, empty glasses never to be filled, soulless and cursed to walk as living dead…doomed to remain in the dark! Feeding off the very living energy of others…never satisfied and always hungering.”

He laughed some. “You can run…but you cannot hide from him Cynder!” He cackled, Cynder’s gaze turning grim and almost looking as if she’d tear up. Spyro growled, pulling the black dragoness away and leaving the hermit to return to his cave from whence he emerged.

Once they got out of earshot and approached the path leading towards their original arrival point, Spyro spoke again…looking over his shoulder to ensure the creepy cheetah and his hiding spot were a good distance away now.

“I’m sorry Cynder…you didn’t deserve to be put through that…” Spyro offered, but her gaze hardened once more.

“I’m fine…I’ll be fine!” She hissed, trying to shake off the insane cheetah’s ramblings.

“Well, I’m not fine!” Sparx finally made his presence known, flying with something behind his back. “I mean really was I the only one freaked out by that old cat? ‘Doomed to remain in the dark!’…sheesh…stuff like that just isn’t okay.” He grinned, however. “But it wasn’t a total waste of time! While you two had that geezer talking I snagged this-!” Sparx laughed as he revealed the object behind his back to be the key they needed!

The two felt a bit embarrassed that they had forgotten the actual reason for them coming to the hermit in the first place.

“Let’s get out of this here and – GAH!” Sparx cried out as one of the skeletal apes leaped from the brush and snagged the dragonfly!

“Sparx! Let him g-!” Spyro growled, but was suddenly swarmed by another group leaping down from trees near the trio! Spyro and Cynder were quickly swarmed and battered as the skeletons ambushed the distracted dragons!

“Spyro – Help!” Cynder called to him, trying to push her way to where the purple dragon was being attacked, but he seemingly vanished beneath the crowd of skeletal apes that surrounded them both!

For Spyro, he just felt as clawing attack after bruising strike struck him over and over again. His gaze seemed to go foggy as if he’d pass out from the sheer beating he was receiving! But he felt that rage rising up within his very being once more. The memory of the pain he knew the apes had brought upon the world repeated over and over again in his head. His heart seemed to stop in his chest, sweat rolled down his scales, the very land around him seemed to darken and fade away. Even the very sounds of his pained cries, Cynder’s pleas, Sparx’s calls for aid…it all seemed to fade as his eyes slammed shut. The last thing he saw was his scales turning into a dark, inky black.

Murderers.

Everything went white.

A blood-curdling snarl rang out as dark energy engulfed the skeletal apes, a crash of what felt like thunder struck the very world around them as a blast of dark aether shot from the crowd of skeletons, petrifying them, and turning them to dust in mere seconds!

The crowd on Spyro was sent flying in all directions, the dark figure crashing into the crowd now swarming Cynder and Sparx! Cynder and Sparx both heard a blast of whistling energy ring overhead, and were suddenly freed from her ambushers, able to catch a glimpse of Spyro once again.

Only…it wasn’t Spyro they saw.

Dark, solid black scales…sickly brown looking membranes and underbelly…and those eyes.

Those harrowing, solid white eyes.

Sparx could only take cover behind Cynder in fear. They had only seen this side of Spyro once before…but the memories of that night still haunted them…even if it had still felt like only a day for them since their mission to the Well of Souls.

The skeletal apes were no match for the dark and corrupted version of Spyro, the monstrous being struck time and time again, their very attacks causing small explosions of dark convexity on impact! The sheer power this alter-ego of Spyro wielded was awesome…but terrifying.

It tore through the skeletal apes like they were nothing, bones flying in all directions each time the twisted purple dragon lashed out with an attack. They were just no match for him! Those who managed to survive his blasts of dark aether were quickly torn asunder!

Cynder had to do something! This wasn’t her friend…this monster wasn’t the restrained purple dragon she knew. He fought and killed as was necessary…this…thing, however, seemed to relish in the feeling of striking down each foe before them! It savagely struck out time and time again with such a level of aggression that she and Sparx couldn’t believe it was still Spyro’s body.

When the last of the skeletal apes had fallen, all that remained standing was the terrified black dragoness and Sparx…and the darker side of Spyro surrounded by hundreds of ape bones.

Kill the murderers…kill them all…

Leave none standing…they must die!

“Spyro!” Cynder called out his name. The painfully bright and white glowing eyes of the purple dragon were on her in an instant, causing her heart to start beating harder out of fear.

“Spyro wake up! This isn’t you!” She pleaded, daring to get closer to him with small steps forward. Sparx slowly hovered closer too, holding onto one of Cynder’s horns tightly for protection.

That one…no…we mustn’t bring harm to them.

“Spyro, buddy? Snap out of it man! It’s us, Sparx and Cynder!” Sparx said in a jittery tone, his voice barely managing to finish his sentence.

Must…fight…no! This isn’t right!

The dark alternate side of Spyro seemed to falter as he clutched his head, the shadows surrounding the purple dragon starting to recede!

“That’s it Spyro, come back to us! We’re here…your friends!” Cynder pleaded again, determinedly starting right into those twisted white eyes! She wouldn’t back down despite the undeniable fear she felt in facing down this side of Spyro, her legs wobbling ever so slightly.

“Come back to me…” She whispered…so quietly that not even Sparx could possibly hear her.

The first thing Spyro saw once again was those green eyes of Cynder’s…a sudden feeling of exhaustion pressing down onto his shoulders.

For Sparx and Cynder, they bore witness as the shadows faded away and the inky black scales shifted back to Spyro’s glorious purple. His wing membranes and underbelly too reverted back to their regal, gold color.

Spyro collapsed in that moment, eyes wide in fear and alarm as he was suddenly brought back to reality…back to being him.

Cynder edged closer.

“Spyro? Are you…-?”

He cut her off.

“What happened…” He cut her off, trailing off before his eyes finally turning to meet hers and Sparx’s gazes.  Cynder cleared her throat and tried to speak.

“Spyro you-.”

“What really happened-.” He cut her off again. “-at the Well of Souls?” Spyro asked, his voice filled with dread and despair.

Cynder froze. This wasn’t how she wished to break the ice to Spyro about what happened that fateful night. She’d desperately hoped to have the guardians present when she did.

How she wished Ignitus were here.

“Spyro…you deserve to know the truth…the truth that Sparx and I both kept from you. But we can’t stay here.” She said sadly. “Please…can you make it back to the boat dock?” She asked.

Spyro sighed before he slowly got to his paws, giving her a slow nod.

“I promise…once we get back I’ll tell you everything that happened on the night you came to save me.” She tried to place a paw on his shoulder, but it merely sagged as he sadly nodded.

Sparx remained silent, not wanting to push his luck. Cynder had this one, he’d just follow the two and provide support if he was needed, carrying the key in tow after his companions.

Spyro felt as though he’d be sick.

“I…murdered Gaul?” He asked quietly…mostly it was a question to himself.

“…yes, Spyro.” Cynder gave him a slow nod. She remembered it vaguely, spotting Gaul’s petrified body being torn asunder and being turned into dust. The king of the apes and one who had slain so many dragons…killed by someone as young as Spyro seemingly effortlessly by that darker side of the noble purple dragon.

“And I…I killed him in cold blood. This other side…now that I know what it is…I can almost sense that it enjoyed what it did to Gaul…what I did to Gaul…” Spyro clutched his head.

“I fight and claim Malefor is a monster…but now I’m no better than he is!” Spyro shut his eyes. “I have that thing inside of me now and it kills out of enjoyment…out of my anger! I’m…I-!” Spyro breathed heavily, but was cut off when he was suddenly shoved to the ground by Cynder, breaking him from his train of thought.

“Cynder! What are you-?!” Sparx cried as she slapped the dragonfly aside with her tail, edging dangerously close to Spyro now. Spyro’s gaze was confused…fearful…but focused. She had his attention and that was what mattered.

“Don’t repeat those words. Ever.” She stared daggers into Spyro’s amethyst eyes which were on the verge of tears. “You are not him…what happened in the Well of Souls wasn’t your doing. An accident. If anyone is at fault, it’s me!” She hissed, before backing off with a heavy sigh.

“I got captured and you came to save me. If I had never left the temple, nothing that happened then would have come to pass the way it did. I wouldn’t have been captured so easily and…captured again by the apes. If not for me, this-.” She gestured figuratively to his alter ego. “-wouldn’t have happened to you!”

“Cynder…I-.” He started, but she quickly cut him off, her emerald eyes intense.

“A monster wouldn’t care about being good Spyro. Do you think Malefor sits in his fortress worrying about the answer to the question of if he’s bad or not?” She asked seriously, earning a thoughtful look from the purple dragon. “I highly doubt it.”

“I mean if he does, I’d give a few years of my life to know.” Sparx said as he picked himself off the ground and hovered near the two, earning an annoyed glance from Cynder.

“You’re comparing yourself to a dragon who turned his back on the world he once swore to protect…betrayed his own race…raised an army of cutthroats, murderers, and mercenaries to kill his own kind. He trained them to fight and kill dragons, created a monument to his rage that traps the lost souls of the world…had my egg captured by his servants and turned me on my own kind!” Her voice dripped with venom as she spoke of Malefor. Even Sparx could only shut up and listen as the black dragoness spoke.

“Spyro…so you did kill Gaul indirectly. Yes…it’s scary to know that this could happen again. Seeing you fight and kill in such a way is terrifying. But you’re not a monster. You’re…” She ranted on, seeming to hitch herself on her own words. “…a hero. You fought the apes to save the guardians, saved the Manweersmalls…twice! The Atlawa! You saved me at the well of souls and fought Ancestors know what to save me from Gaul!” She stared deeply into Spyro’s eyes, her expression displaying determination…but also kindness.

‘You’re my hero, Spyro…I just don’t know how I could ever tell you.’ Cynder thought to herself, almost wishing she was brave enough to speak the words aloud.

“Cynder…I don’t know what to say.” Spyro said, trying to come to terms with her words.

“Then don’t say anything…we still have a job to do. We need to get the boat to Meadow still.” Cynder turned to the docked boat-raft docked nearby.

“Just…thank you.” He said softly, finally cracking a slight smile. He was still shaken up, but for her he would move on…for now. She smiled, giving him a considerate nod.

An awkward silence would follow, one which Sparx was more than happy to break.

“Well if you two are done, we’ve got an injured cheetah to get home!” The dragonfly pleaded. He’d seen enough for a single day and wanted nothing more than to get past the topic of Spyro’s dark alter-ego.

Prowlus heard a commotion from outside his hut, quickly he grabbed for his sword before stepping outside in case there was another attack.

Instead of an attack, he was greeted to the sight of Spyro and Cynder returning to the village…Meadow with them, leaning on the purple dragon.

“Meadow, you’re safe!” One of the gate guards cheered, patting the older cheetah on the shoulder.

“I am…thanks to these two young dragons…” Meadow said softly, earning a smile from them both and a frown from Sparx. “…and the brave dragonfly.”

That brought a smile to Sparx’s face.

Prowlus signaled one of his guards, gesturing them over as he handed them a key, pointing at the totem where Hunter was still locked to.

Prowlus passed through the crowd, approaching Meadow with a regretful look on his face.

“Meadow…I was a fool. I chose safety and precaution rather than to send you the help you needed…when these two dragons sought you out on their own initiative.” Prowlus planted a hand on the other cheetah’s shoulder.

“You’re forgiven chief…just…someone get me to the healer.” Meadow grunted, one of the villagers coming forward to take Meadow from Spyro and helping him walk. Next returned Hunter, his bow and blade re-equipped and nervously looking over Prowlus.

“I do not share your faith in the dragons, Hunter…but by imprisoning you, I made a critical error…one that nearly cost the life of one of our own.” Prowlus said regretfully.

“We all make mistakes Chief…I should have told you of my plans…I should have said something before I left.” Hunter smiled finally, placing a hand on Prowlus’ shoulder and giving him a respectful nod.

“Yes…and I will start by amending mine.” Prowlus huffed, reaching to his hip and retrieving a sheet of paper. “Use for forbidden passage, it will take you directly to the great dragon city.” He leans closer to Hunter. “If this purple dragon truly is our final hope…then I wish you luck.”

Hunter smiled at the sheet of parchment, before turning his teal gaze to Prowlus.

“You could come with us…your help would be invaluable.” Hunter spoke, trying to convince the chief…but he knew from the look Prowlus gave, it wasn’t likely.

“Very well…but the invitation remains should you change your mind.” Hunter added.

The stone passageway slowly opened for the first time in what appeared to be hundreds of years. Dust blew out in abundance as it slid apart to reveal the dark passageway to the trio and Hunter. The sheet of paper was fascinating to the two dragons.

The script written into it almost acted like a key once it was close to the entrance…surely this had to be some form of old dragon magic.

“This passage will lead us to our destination…we travel swiftly and will only make one stop in the tunnels to rest. If we march quickly, we’ll reach our destination by daybreak tomorrow. It won’t do to rush and tire ourselves by the time we make it to the dragon city.” Hunter explains, strapping his bow tightly to his torso.

“Great…all I needed was another long flight underground…” Sparx groaned, rubbing his face tiredly.  

Chapter Text

Spyro’s eyes flew open, glancing around as he was forced to bear witness to several dozen dead dragons surrounding him. Images and flashing memories of battles repeating in his mind before his gaze fell upon a fallen Volteer, Cyril, Terrador…

“What happened?!” He asked, feeling so cold and alone surrounded by the fallen dragons and his guardian teachers. The very land around them was turned to ash and set ablaze in flames. Nothing green could be seen for miles and miles in any direction.

Just darkness…fire…soot.

More visions flashed by before he was brought to Ignitus, struck down and on death’s door…and the dark alter-ego version of himself standing over the fire dragon, blood dripping from their jaw and claws onto the ground below.

‘You failed us!’ Ignitus’ voice rang in his head from every direction.

‘Wake up!’ Another voice called out, repeating loudly in his earholes, forcing Spyro to clutch his head in pain as it grew so loud!

‘You failed us, Spyro!’

‘Wake up!’

“Wake up!” Cynder’s voice got through finally and Spyro’s eyes shot open!

“Ignitus!” He yelled out, rising from where he had been sleeping next to Cynder, throwing Sparx off of him and onto the ground.

“H-hey…!” Sparx said tiredly. “What’s the big deal?!” He groaned as his sleep had been interrupted.

Spyro was shivering as he looked around, finding them all in the dark tunnel- for a moment he almost believed his vision had come true…but then his eyes found the soft, dying fire near where Hunter had been keeping watch.

“I…I’m sorry- just…” Spyro glanced at the ground, thankfully they could see decently well in the dark even without the kindles of the dying fire.

“Bad dream?” Cynder asked softly.

“Yeah…a bit too real feeling for my own comfort.” Spyro signed, planting his head on the ground and onto his forepaws. “It didn’t feel like one of those long, drawn-out nightmares…but it was still bleak.”

“I used to have nightmares in the temple a lot.” Cynder went down to his eye level where he rested on his front paws. “They didn’t get better for so long until…three weeks before the attack on the temple.”

“That was when…” Spyro trailed off, remembering back to when the black dragoness had been unable to sleep peacefully for over a month. Shortly before the apes attacked the temple, Spyro had started staying nearby Cynder when she slept.

“When you slept near me when I tried to…it made me feel safe.” She felt her cheeks heat up once more. She didn’t like feeling vulnerable, but Spyro was going through a lot from the previous day. And it had only been close to two days now since they’d been freed from the crystal that once locked them away. She felt indebted to Spyro in a way few could ever understand, despite his claims to the contrary when they were still sixteen…she’d do what she could to support her friend.

“Things felt so much simpler then.” Spyro said softly, genuinely smiling for once since yesterday.

Hunter had been woken up by the dragons’ abrupt awakening, reaching down to put the fire out fully now since it was no longer needed. What little light it offered going out in a single instant, leaving the group in darkness with Sparx as their primary source.

“You two and dreams…why can’t you ever have good dreams that don’t entail some end of the world scenario?” Sparx asked with a frown, crossing his arms as he hovered near the two dragons.

“Years ago, when the war was still underway with the apes, I used to be afraid of them finding their way into the valley and attacking our villages. It took me many moons to get past this fear as I grew older. I was trained to fight, and my fear was surpassed by the knowledge that should it come to pass, I wouldn’t be taken by surprise.” Hunter detailed some of his own past with the cheetahs, reaching to pull his bow onto his back.

“Was it a serious threat to the valley?” Cynder asked with a pang of guilt, eying the cheetah over as he prepared to travel once again.

“Not as much as it was to other places like Tall Plains. The Valley is rather impenetrable aside from the Forbidden Passage…which can only be opened by magical means which I doubt the apes alone could access. But…with the war going in favor of the apes in the last three years of the old war…everyone feared it would spread to their homes.” Hunter reminisced on the darker times before Spyro was discovered once again.

“Is that why you sought me out?” Spyro asked of the cheetah, who let out a soft laugh in response.

“Perhaps a fear of the war finding us…mixed with a headstrong sense of foolishness. I believe in the prophecy for you to defeat Malefor…our hopes now reside with you Spyro, lest we end up forgotten and lost to time due to Malefor’s lust for power.” The cheetah smiled at the purple dragon, fastening his sword to his hip.

“Well, since we’re awake, we should press on. We’re almost to our destination and Ignitus will surely be waiting for us.” Hunter would reach down to his belt to retrieve a pouch of simple rations. Mostly dried meat which he’d offer to the two dragons. Sparx would get preserved grasshoppers…not Sparx’s favorite snack but it was better than the repulsive meat the two dragons and the cheetah ate.

When the group finally saw daylight again, they’d be greeted to the edge of the forbidden entrance giving way to the grand sight of a mountain that had a stony path leading into the massive city of Warfang!

“This…is Warfang?” Spyro asked incredulously as they drank in the sight of the capital city of the dragon kingdom.

“Indeed, it is friend. This is the great dragon city and newly named seat of the guardians under Ignitus’ command after what happened three years ago.” Hunter smiled down at the purple dragon as they got to take in the view of their seat of power.

Grand beige buildings made of marvelously carved stone and inlayed with blue marble along the walls and roofs…all accessible by sandy-hued roads and walkways which wound and wove through the entirety of Warfang. High above the rest of the city was what looked almost like a small, hanging city built around a massive tower at the center of Warfang.

The central construct was also made of that similarly stark white stone and marble. Even from here the dragons could spot an extravagant garden on one of the wings, a massive balcony which contrasted from the rest of the hanging structure as it was built from a more silvery-gray colored stone with blue crystals lining it. Petals from white and gold blossom trees falling from the tall balcony as if it were rain to the ground below. Outside the hanging construct was several great chains and support beams keeping it suspended off the ground.

They could spot an outer wall surrounding the city, standing as the line of defense in keeping the city safe from any attack, when manned they could imagine a standing force being able to fend off any foe.

“In all our time with the guardians, they never really told us about Warfang…it’s beautiful.” Cynder looked in awe. She had brief flashback memories from her time as the Terror regarding Warfang, but nothing that she could substantially relate to.

“It is impressive! Long ago, as the stories say, the city was constructed as a joint effort between the moles and the dragons as a sign of their old friendship. The agreement being that the dragons would be able to live in and rule their kingdom from the mighty city…and in turn they’d offer their protection to the moles and always have a place for the moles to remain within.” He explained the history of Warfang.

“It is said that when garrisoned by an entire host of dragons and moles, the walls of this city could turn back a million foes and still the walls wouldn’t be breached.” Hunter smiled at the thought.

Cynder’s eyes narrowed as she heard a rather off-putting disturbance from the far side of the city.

“Did anyone else hear that? It sounds like…siege weapons!” Cynder exclaimed, her muzzle wrinkling some.

“I heard it too; we need to hurry to the-!” Hunter began, but their attention was quickly drawn to the sight of a massive fireball crashing into one of the distant buildings, causing it to topple over like a house of cards, and crumbling to the ground with a cloud of dust following.

“Oh man…I hope that whole ‘thwarting millions’ story holds up!” Sparx said worriedly, though attempting to jest all the same.

“Come on!” Hunter retrieved his bow and gestured for them to follow. “Stay close!”

The group darted down the slope of the forbidden passage which led into the city, taking the stairs of one of the walls which directed them to the ramparts on their end, allowing them a view of what was happening on the distant side of Warfang.

What they saw shook them all to the core.

Thousands of grublins amassed outside the walls of Warfang. Tens of thousands, an army which was here to do one thing and one thing only: destroy Warfang and burn the city to the ground! From their vantage point they could spot several ranks of orcs leading the attack with hordes of simple fodder grublins in support. In the mass of enemies were six siege towers armed with siege weapons that blasted fireballs against the walls and into the city!

At the center of their mass was a shape that the group could only assume was a battering-ram intended for the great gates of the wall.

Hunter frowned, Spyro could tell his thoughts were conflicting.

“Listen…I’ll take the roads to the gate, help the moles I can along the way. You two fly and see if you can find the guardians! Otherwise, see if you can help the moles likely holding the ramparts. The few fighting dragons in the city will act, but they’ll be spread out to ensure this army can’t breach the wall!” He’d lean down to put a hand on Spyro and Cynder’s shoulders, offering a curt nod.

“Good luck, I’ll see you again.” The cheetah said confidently, before he dashed down the stairs of the wall and off into the city with his bow in hand! Spyro and Cynder were left behind to contemplate the situation before turning their attention to the distant ramparts.

“Let’s get going, we need to get into the fight!” Spyro opened his wings to take flight, Cynder doing the same as she’d follow after the purple dragon!

“B-but wait! Maybe we should just…wait here…ooooh I don’t like being alone right now. Wait for me!” Sparx called back before darting off after the two dragons!

The situation in Warfang had been quickly deteriorating. The moles scurried about confusedly as they attempted to shore up the defenses on the walls and at the gate, the central gate defense cannon maintained the attack as it could, though the wall wasn’t nearly as strong as it should have been with all the others damaged and in disrepair.

Spyro and Cynder fought through the streets as wyverns and grublin flies invaded the city, trying their best to put out the flames of a burning armory to save a detachment of moles from burning alive inside the structure, those that could still fight went to bring their strength to the gate or to the wall where the defending moles were being overrun by the brutal grublins.

Spyro and Cynder couldn’t help but admire the moles…these weren’t fighters. These small creatures weren’t career fighters. They weren’t a professional army despite their equipment and the quality it possessed. The grublins were merely too numerous and were bred fighters unlike the moles who were by nature merchants, builders, and other non-combatant roles.

Spyro and Cynder helped turn the tide back in their favor atop the walls, holding the grublins back at their siege towers for what felt like hours, refusing to let the monsters gain a foothold on the ramparts and be given access into the city.

A handful of dragons would soar down in small battlegroups as they rained down elemental powers on the huge army before their walls, doing their best to thin the grublin numbers where they could, but it was simply not enough to stem the sheer tsunami of bodies amassing for the attack.

Spyro and Cynder had spotted the guardians arrive to the battle above them, the four mighty elemental leaders following after the other battlegroups of dragons as they flew overhead of the grublin army to unleash a devastating barrage of fire, ice, and electricity topped off by Terrador following through and becoming a living boulder as he rolled through the grublin ranks, crushing them beneath his assault before taking back to the sky!

The battering-ram arrived at the gates of Warfang, bashing at the great door before it gave way under the weight of the massive siege tool before the cannon atop the wall managed to finally decommission it! Before the damage could be repaired and the magical seal of the gate could be mended, Spyro and Cynder were greeted to a hideous new foe the grublins had in store, an ogre.

The thing was terrible to look upon and made the worst noises imaginable as it tossed moles left and right in the courtyard before the gate, allowing orcs to pour into the breach!

Hunter did his best to fend off the ogre, but ultimately he was forced to fall back and help the moles push back against the orcs pouring in once Spyro and Cynder joined the fight! They drew the ogre off of the defenders desperately pushing to retake the gate from their enemies, annoying the monstrous creature with their constant avoidance of their attacks, Sparx taunting the beast to even further confuse it!

Finally, the beast toppled over, but the damage was done when the orcs and grublins continued to pour into the breached gate, the moles were unable to stop them while also trying to seal the gate. But when all seemed bleak, a warcry came from their rear flank as the cheetahs from the valley emerged. Spyro, Cynder, and Hunter could only assume Prowlus had reconsidered the offer to come to Warfang’s aid when they spotted the old cheetah leading the charge into the crowd of orcs and grublins with the entire force of cheetah warriors from the several villages in the valley!

With Prowlus’ aid, they were able to push the grublins back to the gate where Cynder helped push it closed while Spyro set the magical braziers alight to lock the seal once more as it had been before the ram threw it open. With the magical seal back in place, the moles moved to quickly resecure the wall while the few dragon groups led by the guardians were given the chance they needed to try and drive the grublins away from the walls.

It seemed to be going well, Spyro and Cynder panting as sweat drenched their scales, finally being able to rest while the adult dragons drove off the grublin army.

But their rest was stopped suddenly when the the group (including Hunter) spotted the battlegroups of dragons turn back abruptly, flying back towards the city as quickly as their wings could carry them.

“Why are they turning back? They had the grublins on the run!” Cynder grew concerned, her wings stiffening some.

“I mean the bad guys are on the run and they’re coming back- I’d say that’s a pretty good thing right?” Sparx asked.

“No…it was too easy to drive them back. Even with the gate taken back, they still had the numbers to prolong the siege further.” Spyro rubbed his chin with his right paw.

“Indeed…something’s not right.” Hunter said coldly with his bow still in hand, eying the wall of fire in the distance where the adult dragons had turned tail from so quickly.

The group soon bore witness to the shape that took form behind the flames. At first they struggled to make out a recognizable form…but the two dragons, Hunter, and Sparx were mortified as they soon witnessed an earth golem appear, the very same one which had attacked them in the catacombs, still missing one of it’s massive arms from the incident with the water downpour in the caves.

Sparx began to sob some. “Hush little baby…don’t say a word…momma’s gonna buy- you- a big monster wants to kill me…!”

They could only look on in horror as the golem dove forward and seamlessly vanished into the very ground beneath its four legs. Everything began to shake around them as the ground bulged from the shape of the monster tunneling beneath them, completely negating the wall as a whole!

“Golem approaching, GET CLEAR!” Hunter yelled down over the wall, the moles and cheetahs immediately turning back from the defenses before they could be caught by the monster approaching the city!

Spyro and Cynder looked on in horror as the golem ignored the massive wall protecting Warfang before it re-emerged within the city! With a deafening roar that shook the ground they stood on, the golem slammed its only fist into a tower, causing it to topple over…but they realized too late that it had other intentions for the fallen building!

To their ever-growing list of reasons to be terrified, the golem raised its arm stub and the stone from the fallen tower came to life! They flew to their arm like a magnet and began taking on a new form of the golem’s own design now, extending from the stub with every crumb of stone that it pulled upon.

Piece by piece attached to their arm before the golem suddenly had a new arm and hand, which it used first by slamming down into a chunk of the wall surrounding Warfang, caving in the section entirely and creating a new breach in their defensive bastion which the grublins would most assuredly take full advantage of now!

It unleashed a torrent of flames from its maw, setting several buildings ablaze before it began a brutal march through the city, the obvious target being the central tower in Warfang. It bashed and wrecked several buildings in its way, on a clear rampage to tear their grand city apart!

“I must help the soldiers find shelter, get to safety! Let the guardians handle this!” Hunter ordered them before he darted down the wall to begin helping the moles and cheetahs coordinate their retreat, urging those who could still fight to the breach in the wall!

Spyro couldn’t help but feel useless. So much destruction and chaos, and here they were…just watching it all happen before their very eyes. His brows creased and their amethyst gaze narrowed, seemingly studying the golem for weaknesses.

“I’m with you.” Cynder said suddenly, her eyes on Spyro in that instant.

“What?” He asked, confused…or pretending to be.

“I know that look Spyro, let’s get out there and head the golem off before it reaches the tower!” Cynder stamped a paw down. “If the tower goes, Warfang itself will follow!”

“Didn’t you both hear Hunter?! We need to just stay back and let Big Red and the other geezers handle that thing!” Sparx whined, wishing so badly he was larger and could actually hold the two dragons back.

Spyro seemed to weigh both Sparx and Cynder’s words, before he turned and gave Cynder a nod.

“Alright, let’s do this!” He returned the remark, their wings flapping as the two young dragons took off after the massive golem into the city!

“Hey! I- wait for me!” Sparx called after the two!

Ignitus and the Guardians rallied together, they were all that was keeping the city together at this point. Terrador had sent the remaining dragon fighters to defend the breach in the wall while they dealt with the golem!

“I’m getting too old for this…” Ignitus sighed tiredly, before his gaze hardened once again. “Cyril those fires are proving to be a problem, see if you can do something about it. Do what you can to mitigate the fires that thing causes!” He huffed.

“Right you are Ignitus! I’ll do my best to head the flames off!” Cyril grinned before taking off into the city.

“Volteer see if you can distract it’s vision...but also be on the lookout for Spyro and Cynder! I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re already trying to put themselves in the middle of this chaos!” Ignitus turned to the electricity guardian.

“Of course Ignitus! It is simply vile, monstrous, evil, cruel, barbaric at what that beast is doing to our city! I’ve half a mind to-!” Volteer rambled on.

“GO!” Ignitus growled, shutting Volteer up as he immediately dashed into the city to play his part!

“Terrador, with me! We’ll head it off at the tower!” Ignitus turned to the earth guardian, who gave him a firm nod as his only response before the two began circling around to reach the other end of the tower where they could pull off an ambush!

Spyro and Cynder rapidly pushed through the streets, the previous exhaustion of the battle for the wall had their muscles screaming for relief which wouldn’t come yet! The golem was tearing through the city with obvious intent on destroying the central tower of Warfang!

The golem however had caught onto the fact that the two young dragons were pursuing it…and apparently golems held grudges as the monster repeatedly tried to crush them both every time they found themselves in the open!

Cynder shoved Spyro aside as they narrowly dodged yet another slam of the golem’s fist which caved in a part of the building they were traversing. The two were ever going higher and higher into the city as they passed building to building!

“This is crazy- we can’t match that thing until we get up higher!” Spyro groaned as they both got up, muscles sore and aching now as they tried to stay out of sight from the beast running amuck in the city.

“We can do this; I know we can!” Cynder claimed, urging Spyro onward as the two tried to slip past the rampaging golem. They weren’t quite as fortunate as they’d like when they found a walkway which led towards the tower and began progressing upward and the golem caught sight of the two dragons and the annoying little dragonfly following after them! The tail of the golem would try and slap down onto the walkway they traversed, Spyro and Cynder rushing to try and make it to the other end but spotting the thing’s tail rapidly enacasing them in shadow!

Before the two could be squashed like bugs however, a massive blast of ice rang out and struck the golem’s tail! It went brittle as Cyril flew in with a roar, swiping with a strong paw as he caused a part of the golem’s tail to break off seamlessly with the ice! It roared in pain and withdrew the tail, giving them the time they needed to cross the walkway!

“Spyro, Cynder! Good to see you both alive, keep going that way, it will lead you towards the dragon barracks, the more fortified building on the tower! We’ll meet you there once we-!” Cyril proudly chanted, trying to rally the two young dragons before the golem’s new fist came from nowhere and slammed the ice guardian into the ground!

“Cyril!” Spyro called out as the guardian vanished from sight, spotting him in a small crater on the ground now before the golem’s vision turned to them now!

“We have to go, come on!” Cynder tugged at Spyro, who reluctantly left Cyril behind. He wanted nothing more than to make sure Cyril was okay, but they had to focus on facing down the Golem while they still had strength.

“We keep pushing up to the barracks like Cyril said, let’s go!” Spyro said as they were finally out of sight of the golem for a moment.

“Why?! Why am I the only sane one here?!” Sparx whined before zooming off after the two dragons!

Spyro and Cynder had to fight through an elite guard of armored orcs on their way to the staircase leading to the barracks, both had fought hard but found themselves even more drained of their elemental strength before the fight was won and done!

The stairs themselves were tall, built with adult dragons in mind rather than still technically adolescent dragons like them! Still, they climbed as quickly as they could, but were greeted by a small force of orcs in their way, blocking access to the barracks!

Spyro and Cynder readied to fight the foes as they blocked their path, but the doors leading into the barracks flew open with a lightning-like surge of electricity that almost ignited the very air all around them! Spyro pulled Cynder and Sparx close before shielding them within a convexity shield!

The electricity tore through the grublins at an exorbitant rate, not stopping til it passed over the two dragons and Sparx, striking against his barrier before fading away. Spyro sighed as he could drop the shield safely.

“Since when could you do that?” Cynder asked quickly, still a bit shocked after the purple dragon pulled her so close to him with Sparx.

“I…didn’t…sort of. Like in the cave, I just felt as if I needed to react and I brought out convexity to shield us…I believe it can be used for more things than just a breath attack.” Spyro said sheepishly.

“Well just let us know when you plan to do a live test while being zapped!” Sparx jabbed, frowning as he flew away from Spyro’s grasp.

The two looked where the doors had flown open, revealing the all-too familiar electricity guardian standing at the top, a broad smile on his face!

“Cynder, Spyro! Simply marvelous, stupendous, incredible, wonderful to see you both alive and well, come on then! I must get you both to safety before the earth golem-!” Volteer began speaking as quickly as he always did before the giant hands of the golem alerted them, the evil glare from the monster spotting the trio of dragons and Sparx before letting out another earth-shaking roar!

“Come on you two! Run!” Volteer called down to the trio as they began rushing up the stairs leading to the barracks, but the separators blocking them from the golem crublmed away as it swung a fist through them, narrowly missing Spyro and Cynder!

It reeled back a punch, and it was clear Spyro and Cynder wouldn’t make it to the top in time before the strike landed. The Electric guardian sprung into action as he took to the air, latching onto the fist as he bit down into the golem’s stony skin, tearing a chunk of it away!

Volteer growled as he struck violently at the golem’s fist, Spyro and Cynder stopping as the electricity guardian fought the giant!

“Volteer! Hang on, we’ll help!” Spyro called out, trying to rush to the guardian’s aid- only for Volteer to blast a wall of electricity in their way to prevent access!

“Keep going Spyro! I’ll be fi-!” Volteer called back to the trio before he was suddenly slammed into a wall by the fist of the golem. When the fist pulled back, the guardian fell to the ground in a heap. He tried to lift his head, but quickly fell over, unconscious from the impact.

“Spyro, focus! We have to keep moving!” Cynder growled, pulling on the chain as they both ran up the stairs. Sparx darted past as they made it into the barracks of the tower, hearing the golem roar outside! It pained Spyro deep down to leave two of his teachers behind now.

“The barracks lead to one of the pinnacles! We can face it on our own terms there!” Cynder stated confidently, Spyro nodding as they made their way towards the door leading to the next set of stairs up!

“You to are crazy! You still wanna fight that thing after what it just did to Cyril and Volteer?!” Sparx asked, eyes wide in terror as they started up the next set of stairs.

“We have no choice Sparx! If we don’t stop the golem, the entire city will fall!” Spyro huffed, giving his brother a determined look. “If you don’t want to come with us then I won’t stop you! But don’t try and stop us.”

“Ughhhh…fine…fine! I promised I’d stick with you and that’s the plan.” Sparx groaned, surrendering his attempt to get them to turn back as they continued up the next flight of stairs.

When the two dragons made it up to the pinnacle, they were greeted to the sight of the golem climbing up the tower to meet them, enraged and more than ready to squash the two dragons before completing it’s mission to destroy the dragon city.

“We stop this thing here and now! Warfang’s survival counts on us!” Spyro growled, taking a fighting stance alongside Cynder as they prepared to face off the golem. There had been green and red crystals in the barracks and the two were ready to face this foe once and for all!

But the two would be interrupted as a ball of what looked like magma struck the back of the golem’s head! It stuck to the monster’s stony skin, causing it to reel in pain before Terrador and Ignitus made themselves known! Terrador would muster a ball of crushed stone before Ignitus set it ablaze, the earth guardian launching the second shot at the golem!

It landed true once more and the two now firmly had the golem’s attention!

“Terrador, go for the heart! I’ll handle the beast’s vision!” Ignitus called out as he soared towards the golem’s face, avoiding a blast of flames it breathed in his path! The fire guardian unleashed a fireball that crashed against the golem’s face before he latched to it’s face, biting and clawing at the beast’s eyes!

“INCOMING!” Terrador yelled out as he curled into a ball, surrounded by green earth energy- a trademark the earth guardian had invented: the living earth flail!

The guardian blitzed right at the golem’s chest and blew a hole right into their torso with a rippling blast! Terrador burrowed deep into the golem and very nearly tore through the heart, but his trajectory was off and he’d go out the other side of the golem’s chest! It roared in pain as there was now a gaping hole in their torso, before reaching up to knock Ignitus off! The fire dragon fell and Terrador would come back in for another attack! But without the fire guardian blocking their vision, it saw Terrador coming and unleased a burst of flames right onto the earth guardian!

Terrador shielded himself with his wings, but quickly as he tried to put the flames out, he was struck to the ground below them!

Ignitus roared as he came back in, lashing out at the golem! Biting, clawing, burning! The fire guardian tried their best, but the golem caught him this time before raising Ignitus high into the air, throwing the oldest guardian hard into the ground! Ignitus landed with a heavy *THUD*, dust surrounding the crater he made.

“Oh man…now all the guardians are down and it’s just us!” Sparx took cover, leaving Cynder and Spyro to face off the golem as it turned on them both. There was no one to save the purple and black dragons, only they stood in the way of this monster and the city!

The fight had been brutal.

Spyro and Cynder narrowly avoided most of the golem’s attacks- a few catching the two dragons off-guard before they’d get swatted into a wall or struck into the ground! Still, they fought on, unleashing devastating elemental attacks on the golem each time it set a hand down to try and hit them both!

Spyro burned it with his fire, searing the stone flesh with electricity, impaling the monster with ice shards where he could, and even letting Cynder use him like a wrecking ball as he’d ball up with a cage of earth energy as she’d fly around and send him flying into the golem!

Cynder did much of the same, finding fear fire didn’t have as strong of an effect on the golem as real fire! The siren wails didn’t have the desired effect either, the golem seemingly being immune to the illusions it provided for other foes. Poison proved the most effective as she’d rend the monster’s stone-like skin with her acidic dripping claws, searing right through it! But still the golem refused to relent or falter in any way! It was shaking the tower and the two dragons were running out of their elemental reserves at a rapid pace!

“Soon I won’t be able to muster a single spark! We’re not going to take this thing down from here!” Spyro growled, creating a wall of earth in the way of another slam from the golem, buying them a necessary second of safety.

“I’ve got an idea!” She said, sweat rolling down her ebony scales. They were both thoroughly exhausted at this point and just wanted a rest.

But rest could come after the golem was defeated.

“Our convexity- it may get us out of this!” Cynder snarled as the golem struck Spyro’s wall which was protecting them both!

“I’m not so sure our breath attacks would be enough to punch through it’s skin enough to stop it!” Spyro gave a strained sound of effort as he tried to keep the wall of earth up under the golem’s assault!

“Not like that- you projected it into a shield as well…what if we used convexity in an attack like a comet dash?!” She asked, his eyes widening in shock at the idea. “I think Terrador had the right idea- go through the heart directly and the golem goes down!”

“That…that could work!” Spyro thought about it, the golem’s next attack nearly crashing the wall down!

“Then you lead us in, you know the comet dash better than me!” Cynder affirmed, earning a slight smile from Spyro as they backed away, the golem smashing through it finally! The two would unleash their collective aether and dark aether furies, purple and black-mixed purple energy surrounding both of their bodies!

The two erupted in a flash of the two opposing sides of convexity, both dragons taking to the air as they used the energy to propel themselves even faster than they could naturally move! The two used the snake-chain to almost begin spinning through the air like a fan! They blurred into a ring of purple and dark-purple convexity before they broke the spin and went surging right at the golem!

The giant released a wave of fire towards the two dragons, but the flames couldn’t pierce the convexity surrounding them both! They rocketed right at the giant like a comet of purple energy! It tried to bash the two dragons out of the way, but Spyro and Cynder were going so fast and had so much energy surging that they shot right through the golem’s fist, leaving a searing hole through it!

They continued to shoot right at the golem, the last thing the monster bore witness to was the two dragons blasting forth and going directly through the golem’s chest, this time they both went right on target where they needed to be! The two dragons shot through the golem’s heart and out the other end of its torso!

In a combustion of fire, the golem’s entire torso seemed to catch alight in fire as it screamed out in pain! The golem clutched their chest, releasing the tower before plummeting down into the ground and landing right in the streets of Warfang with a massive cloud of dust surrounding it. The sounds of pain faded into nothing, and the streets fell silent.

Spyro and Cynder landed back on the pinnacle of the Warfang tower, looking down at the golem and where it lay dead. But the silence in the streets of Warfang didn’t last long as soon every mole, cheetah and dragon down below began cheering and hollering to the rooftops! The cries of relieved victory washed over the entire city in that instant.

“They’re cheering for their purple dragon.” Cynder grinned at Spyro as she wiped some sweat from her brow with a paw. But when he turned back, she saw only a kind smile on his face.

“They’re cheering for you just as much as me.” He countered, and Cynder was unable to stop her heart from skipping a beat at his kind words.

“Yeah, they’re cheering for how equally crazy you both are!” Sparx exclaimed, finally emerging from his hiding spot now that the fight was over. But Spyro and Cynder were too overwhelmed with the praise from below to return the dragofnly’s jest.

For now, they simply relished the feeling of their hard-won victory.

Chapter Text

Spyro and Cynder lost track of how long they stood atop the pinnacle near the top of the central tower in Warfang, simply being cheered on by the masses of moles, cheetahs, and what dragons were in the city. They were both brought back to reality when they heard four sets of wings flapping their way.

They turned back to spot the guardians approaching, landing onto the pinnacle near them with Ignitus at the head, a small group of moles coming up via the stairs as well with Hunter following behind them!

“Young dragon,” Ignitus spoke up, his words soothing Spyro in an instant. “, you never cease to amaze me. This goes for you too, Cynder.” He grinned at the two dragons. Spyro and Cynder couldn’t help but sprint to close the gap between them and the fire guardian. Ignitus could have melted as he leaned his head down to accept the hugs he got from them both.

“Welcome home.” Ignitus spoke softly to them both, tears rolling down his cheeks, Spyro and Cynder couldn’t help but tear up as well now that they simply hugged and nuzzled into the fire guardian for the first time in what felt like ages. To Ignitus, it had been ages since he’d seen them both. It gave the old fire dragon a renewed sense of hope, getting them back and knowing they were alive and well.

When they finally pulled away from Ignitus, the three wiped the tears from their eyes quickly, earning an eyeroll from Sparx who tried his best to look unfazed…but truth be told even the dragonfly couldn’t help but shed a single tear with his back turned.

Hunter and one of the moles approached the two dragons, the cheetah smiling as he knelt to Spyro and Cynder’s eye level.

“You both continue giving me new and impressive reasons as to why I find dragons to be remarkable creatures…well done.” Hunter placed a furred hand on their shoulders, giving them a confident look before he rose back to his full height.

“We never lost hope that you’d return, young dragons. Ignitus made sure of that…though it likely cost him some sleep to do so.” Terrador affirmed with a light smile on his muzzle.

Ignitus turned his attention to Hunter.

“It seems I sent the right person to find you after all. Hunter…you and the cheetahs have our undying gratitude for finding them.” The fire guardian bowed his head to the cheetah, who also bowed in return. “Well done, my friend.”

“It was an honor to be asked to seek them out, fire guardian.” Hunter smiled, giving both Spyro and Cynder a wink as he let others speak.

“This is all getting really cushy…” Sparx said under his breath.

“Amazing, spectacular, unbelievable, remarkable, incredible that you two managed to bring down a fully grown earth golem at such a young age! Truly my studies could never do your powers justice when you accomplish something su-!”

“Indeed, Volteer.” Cyril cut off the electricity guardian, keeping the younger of the four guardians from rambling on as he himself knelt his head down to speak. “Yes…it is good to have you both back.” Cyril gave them a gleeful look, though not too gleeful…he had a reputation of stoicism and pride to maintain after all.

“I…I should have returned sooner. So much happened and yet none of it really excuses that I was just…gone…when all of this happened. While we were gone, the war began anew…but I’m not leaving now, and I won’t fail you again!” Spyro said defiantly, expression hardening. Cynder nodded in agreement with the purple dragon.

“It was my fault, guardians…I was captured by Gaul and Spyro came to rescue me. There were…complications that led to us being frozen for three years.” Cynder spoke ashamedly, earning a slight smile from Ignitus.

“We do not blame you for Spyro being gone, Cynder…you’ve both already done more than anyone could expect of dragons your age. It gladdens my heart to see you both here, safe and sound. I’m sure you’ve both got quite the tale to share…and we’ll be glad to hear it once you’ve been given a rest. But what matters now is that you’re here and have returned to us, at the turning of the tide.” Ignitus countered Cynder’s words, reassuring them both as he usually managed to.

Even after three years, he was the same Ignitus to both young dragons.

“Well, it’s not as though we’ve really had a choice as to our being together…seeing as we’re stuck together by this Ancestor-dammed chain.” Cynder would change the subject, glad to finally have the guardians present for this.

Ignitus leaned down to glance over the strange snake-like devices wrapped around both dragons as it appeared once more.

“How strange, these devices are foreign to me. Volteer, Mason- oh, apologies young dragons! This is Mason, the governor of the moles and master-tinkerer and craftsman of their people!” He introduced the lead mole who approached the two dragons, Volteer close by his side.

“Indeed, I am Mason, and on behalf of the moles you two have our eternal gratitude.” Mason claimed. “Now…let’s have a look there.”

The mole wore a special sort of eyeglass over one of his eyes, pulling back the goggle over the other as he leaned in, raising a tiny hand to his eyeglass as he turned the device. The lens seemed to narrow as he studied both devices further.

“Never have I seen such a device before either, but…there is evil poured into the very essence of how these were created.” Mason rubbed his chin, a bit troubled by the snake-chains.

“I predict that Malefor himself crafted this vile contraption! No magic can pierce it without harming either dragon, that much I can tell.” Volteer spoke in a low voice now as his yellow eyes scanned the devices.

“Then…we won’t be able to remove them.” Ignitus let out a disappointed sigh as he knew the two dragons wouldn’t be fond of the idea that they were permanent.

“Stuck?! But there must be a way to break it!” Cynder pleaded, looking at each guardian dragon and even Mason, but none had proper advice for her. “All magic has a weakness!”

“If we face Malefor, how will we do so with this thing restraining us?” Spyro asked of the guardians, his mood dampening some.

“Spyro, Cynder, and young Sparx at your side…you’ve done well to get this far despite the chain. Dare I say it, I believe Malefor has done us a favor.” Ignitus said, smiling as the two looked as though they were about to explode in a flurry of counterarguments, but he silenced them before they could with a raised paw. “In chaining you both together, Malefor has indirectly forced you to both rely on one another, working together and fighting back-to-back to keep each other safe. Do not view this tether as a burden…but instead as a reminder of the strong bond you both share.” His head would rise back to his full height.

“That thought is a comforting one.” Terrador would add, his smile remaining.

“Since when do you smile?” Sparx asked, earning an eyeroll from the earth guardian.

“Come Ignitus, we’ve got villages to ensure are safe and these two dragons are likely hungry, and need rest!” Cyril said with a broadening grin, earning a nod of agreement from Ignitus.

“Indeed…come, the guardian chambers are not far. Terrador, relay to the dragon guards that they’re to rest before helping the moles clean up the damage.” He said firmly before turning to Hunter. “Hunter, please relay our thanks to Chief Prowlus, and extend the offer to help further or for his men to rest at the city center beneath the tower where the moles can bring them food and water.”

Hunter simply bowed his head once more before he, Mason, and the other moles departed from the pinnacle. Ignitus and the other guardians would lead Spyro, Cynder and Sparx to the guardian chambers as they had said before.

Ignitus, Cyril, Terrador, and Volteer surrounded a massive round table, draconic inscriptions etched into the very wood of the table. The walls were decorated with paintings and murals of the dragon armies of old fighting the apes as well as other moments of triumph for their race in the ages of the past.

Ignitus invited Spyro and Cynder to gather with them, despite the huge amount of empty spots at the table.

Spyro couldn’t help but speak up.

“This table was meant for more than just the guardians, isn’t it?” Spyro asked softly, earning a grim nod from the guardians.

“Right you are, young dragon, and very perceptive.” Cyril nodded his head. “Once upon a time, in ages past, this table was the seat of the Warfang Council. The guardians led the council, supported by the Elder and Regent the two who we deliberated with on political matters, and the Captain of the Guard as well as the General, who handled military and internal security affairs.” Cyril explained the history of the council.

“Due to the strain on our numbers, the guardians haven’t risked others taking up the council. Cyril and I handle the political affairs as of late, while Terrador handles the more directly needed affairs. Ignitus simply balances us out and aids both sides of the spectrum.” Volteer added onto Cyril’s explanation.

“On that matter…I must tell you both, we lied to you about how desperate our race’s situation was. It’s still dangerously low, as far as our numbers go. But…we’ve known of a settlement near the outskirts of Warfang’s region for some time. Cyril and Volteer’s mates have kept it protected for some time…and helped keep it secret.” Ignitus explained slowly, with a hint of shame in his voice.

“There are other dragons out there?” Spyro asked.

“You kept it a secret?” Cynder also asked, Ignitus’ eyes darting between the pair as they both got up from their haunches with quizzical looks.

“Those two have girlfriends?!” Sparx asked aloud as he gestured to Cyril and Volteer, both who looked less than impressed. Spyro and Cynder rapid fired questions to Ignitus, who very quickly began to look overwhelmed.

“SILENCE!” Terrador’s baritone voice boomed, silencing them all in a single instant. Spyro and Cynder shrank back down to their haunches. Ignitus gave Terrador a grateful look before he spoke up again.

“Yes, Cyril and Volteer are mated. I’ll let them explain their personal lives before I do.” Ignitus deferred to Volteer and Cyril.

“Well, I’ll start- my mate was another electricity dragoness named Tempest- she was my old flame before I was ever a guardian. After I received the promotion, we made it official and had an egg of our own, a daughter in fact! Hopefully you’ll both get to meet them both someday soon!” Volteer said with a goofy grin.

“I am mated to Nix, one of the last remaining dragonesses of one of our ancient bloodlines in the ice dragons. There was no small amount of romance of course…but our binding was primarily intended for an heir, Galacion. She and her mother both hid with the settlement Ignitus made mention of.” Cyril smiled proudly.

“And what about you and Green Stuff over here?” Sparx asked of Ignitus and Terrador, earning a slightly embarrassed look from Terrador…Ignitus’ eyes however fell to the floor.

“I…never had a mate. Duty and training kept me from such things. There was one dragoness once but…times have changed. We lost so many dragons that it’s hard to know who is and isn’t left outside of the settlement.” Terrador let out a sigh.

Eyes fell to Ignitus now.

“I’d…rather not speak of my own family.” Ignitus glanced back at the young dragons and Sparx. “Just know that it’s been long enough since I saw them that I’m worried plenty. They aren’t at the settlement near Warfang, and I’ve been unable to locate them. I’d rather move on from this topic and address the more important questions asked by Spyro and Cynder.” He gave Sparx a look and shut the dragonfly up.

“Now…yes, Spyro, there are others of our kind still alive. A community of several dozen dragons…around forty dragons roughly with the younger dragons which have come along since then. Some who are a few years older than you or Cynder like Cyril and Volteer’s children, and some who came along after the Year of the Dragon. They’ve lived in safety from the war ever since we made the announcement for our people to into hiding when…the Terror came.” Ignitus’ eyes fell sadly on Cynder, who shrunk away ever so slightly.

“When Cynder, as she used to be, began targeting the guardians…I ordered our non-combatants to flee and hide wherever they could. It was evident to me that after the temple raid led by Gaul, the arrival of Cynder years later, and when Terrador was kidnapped? We weren’t going to win the war. When only I remained and the others had been captured, the remaining members of the dragon vanguard made a final stand so I could go into hiding…against my wishes. They gave me no choice however…and Cynder fell upon them as I fled.” Ignitus spoke ashamedly.

“Cynder…it was kept secret from both of you for the fact we weren’t willing to risk you finding out…and falling back to Malefor’s control.” Ignitus’ gaze fell to the ground again, and Cynder felt as though her heart sank into her stomach.

“You…you four…you…!” Anger swelled up in her chest as she sputtered. “You…didn’t trust me?” Cynder asked softly, her tears welling up ever so slightly as it hurt her to think about. Cyril cleared his throat, but the other guardians tried to give him looks to shut up…alas, he did not.

“It’s not that we do not trust you, young dragoness…but we had to take precautions in case the worst came to pass! And we knew Spyro wouldn’t be able to keep it a secret forever should he be informed of the settlement’s existence. Even now…can you prove you can resist Malefor’s influence should he attempt to wrest control of you?” Cyril asked of her, but the looks the other guardians gave him that instant made him shrink down some.

“So…all along, you four telling me that what I did was in the past…? All a lie?! I’m still a screeching monster to you four!” Cynder growled, Spyro shrinking away some as she raised her voice.

“Cynder please, let them ex-!” Spyro tried to speak, only for her to give him an evil glare.

“No! I’m tired of excuses from the guardians! Tell me straight, here and now, am I still Malefor’s attack dog to each of you? The dragoness you told your children and friends to run away from in fear?!” She stammered, eyes brimming with tears.

“No! Cynder, we know nothing but shame from our failure to protect your egg during the night of the temple raid! But these are noncombatants and children, Cynder…we couldn’t take a chance with their lives before Malefor’s inevitable return…” Ignitus’ gaze turned to the floor in shame again, his wings drooping.

“But the fact that I’ve been fighting tooth and nail by Spyro’s side to put an end to this war still isn’t enough?! That I’m trying to atone isn’t enough for you?!” She growled, muzzle wrinkled and showing her teeth now. Rage painted her face, but tears were streaming down her cheeks now as she deep down felt only dread.

“And what about you Terrador?! Cyril? Volteer?! Why are you three so quiet now? Don’t hold back now, tell me plainly that I’ll only ever be the Terror of the Skies to you!” She croaked, voice breaking some as the tears came down hard. Cyril looked as though he had been slapped, Terrador much like Ignitus had his head held low in shame, and Volteer felt his own eyes brim with tears.

“THAT’S ENOUGH!”

All eyes suddenly turned darted to Spyro, who had raised their voice to a level few thought the young purple dragon could manage. Even Sparx was silent, having seen Spyro like this during their childhoods in the swamp only rarely.

Spyro gave Cynder a sad look, returning the gaze to the guardians as they were all silent. He’d reach a paw over to slowly wipe the tears from Cynder’s cheeks.

“Cynder may have once terrified our people and very nearly cost dragons the war. But in the short time we’ve been awake from the crystal we were trapped in, she has fought just as hard as I with the sole purpose of proving herself! Ever since I freed her before the Night of Eternal Darkness, I’ve seen her time and time again try to make amends and prove her innocence to us all and the dragons she was forced to fight!” Spyro said, his voice sad but slowly shifting tones to determination.

“Maybe we’re right to be afraid of what may happen to Cynder once we’re face to face with Malefor…but I’ll still face him regardless, and knowing Cynder will be by my side when I do? It gives me hope…because just after the last two days of fighting by her side, there’s no one else I’d rather have by mine.” He said confidently, earning an ‘AHEM’ from Sparx. “Aside from Sparx…of course.”

Spyro turned to face Cynder now.

“Cynder, I know that deep down you’re scared of the possibility that they’re right. It terrifies me to even imagine you falling under Malefor’s control again…but I don’t believe you’ll let him, and neither will I. When the time comes, we’ll beat him together…I know it!” Spyro said confidently, stamping a paw on the marble ground.

His words touched Cynder deeply, and she couldn’t help but move in close to hug the purple dragon close, nearly squeezing him tightly enough to wind him! Spyro didn’t shy away though, he just accepted the hug and returned it, their eyes closing in the moment as his own wings folded around her some.

Sparx fake gagged at the sight while the guardians, Ignitus in particular, smiled broadly at the sight of the two embracing each other. He had always felt deep down that the two, if given the chance, would form a bond stronger than any other in recent years.

The two would feel the eyes on them and quickly parted, glancing away from each other, their cheeks heated up intensely.

“Th-thank you, Spyro…” Cynder said softly, before turning to face the guardians again. “And…I’m sorry…I just…I had to get that off my chest, apparently.” Cynder let out a shuddering sigh, the tears drying up finally.

“We know Cynder…and we’d never hold words against you. We guardians failed at the temple to protect your egg…and not a day goes by where I don’t regret being able to save your egg and spare you of the misery you suffered at the hands of Gaul and through Malefor’s awful grip over your mind and body. I wish things were different…but time is a fickle thing to us dragons, such long lifespans are sometimes a burden as much as a blessing. So much time to think and regret, to think about what could have been…melancholy is sometimes unavoidable for us older dragons.” Ignitus detailed, still regretful in his voice.

“We are sorry, dear Cynder, but I think it’s time for us guardians to change as well to prove ourselves to  to prove ourselves to you. No more lies and only full honesty with you both from here on out.” Volteer smiled at the two young dragons.

“Indeed, Volteer…we kept secrets from you both and we must make our own amends.” Cyril said, for once sounding as if he had been humbled…perhaps the three years they were gone changed the old ice guardian.

“Very touching…but I believe we’ve poured our hearts out enough.” Terrador croaked, raising a wing to hide himself wiping a tear away from his eye. “We’re due for a subject change…I believe you both had quite the tale to tell us?” Terrador asked, earning a puzzled look from Spyro. He had completely forgotten they intended to tell the guardians what had happened before their return.

“Huh…where to begin.” Spyro thought about it for a long moment.

“Perhaps I should start.” Cynder said with a slight blush. “Everything fell apart after I left the temple. Perhaps I should go on about how we ended up crossing paths aboard the Skavenger vessel.” She smiled sheepishly at Spyro.

“You both ended up aboard the ships of those mongrel pirates?!” Cyril questioned incredulously.

“As did Hunter…like Cyril said on the pinnacle, it’s a long story. We’ll do our best to not take all night.” Spyro said with a smile before giving Cynder his full attention.

“Before I left the temple…I had a final dream, except…this one wasn’t a nightmare. At the time it felt more like…a warning. I know this probably sounds a bit insane but I was given a vision by the Chronicler…” She said, turning to face Spyro. “When we saw the Chronicler in the catacombs? It wasn’t the first time I’d seen him.”

“So, you saw him too before the Night of Eternal Darkness?” Spyro asked softly, earning a nod from her.

“It seems Spyro wasn’t the only one of you two who had kept secrets of your dreams. What did your vision from the Chronicler foretell?” Ignitus asked softly, moving from his haunches to being fully laid down.

“He showed me a vision of…his return…as well as the Terror of the Skies returning to the world if I didn’t venture back to…Concurrent Skies…to my old lair.” Cynder glanced at the ground, a bit offput by what had occurred before her capture.

“What reason could the Chronicler have for you to return to that awful place?” Terrador asked grimly, his deep green eyes showing concern for the young dragoness.

“I’m still not entirely sure…I hated going back there, but in a way it was almost enlightening…retracing my old steps as my true self. Not as…what he made me to be. When I arrived, I found it being looted by the Skavenger pirates. Apparently, they’re brave…or stupid…enough to risk the dangers of that place. They had also captured a storm elemental for some sort of tournament they were planning. I fought them for as long as I could but without access to green crystals they overwhelmed me.” Cynder told her story. Spyro regretted her leaving the temple while he was passed out with a vision of his own.

“When I woke up, I was aboard their ship…my reputation had me slated as the final match of the tournament. When I finally was allowed out of my cell, it was actually Spyro I was pitted against.” She grinned at the purple dragon, who rubbed the back of his net. “Before we could fight…or pretend to, the apes swooped in on their dreadwings, carrying me away from the arena during the attack.” She sighed. “Like a badly written damsel in distress. The bigger story is Spyro’s side of the tale.” She finished, gesturing a wing to Spyro as she’d allow him to take over.

Spyro cleared his throat.

“Well…when I left the temple and everyone went their separate ways, I ventured out to the Ancient Grove and found the tree in my dreams…which, of course, turned out to be some ancient sentinel of the grove named Arborick. I fought and defeated him after fighting through Skavengers who were apparently looking for Arborick, a prized contestant for their tournament.” Spyro sighed. “They knocked me out and I was brought to their floating arena where all the skavengers were assembling to witness the tournament. I was the prized fighter now and had to fight through so many different foes.”

“You fought through an entire gladiator match, essentially? While I should thank the ancestors you pushed through to the very end of it all, I must say…well done.” Terrador lightly smiled. “I am sure as a true warrior, you adapted and overcame any challenge the pirates presented you with. I’d expect nothing less of you.” Terrador affirmed confidently, nodding his head.

“When the apes came in and captured Cynder, I fought past their captain…even Sparx got a good lick in with one of the birds who captained the ship.” Spyro smirked at the dragonfly, who seemingly flexed one of his arms.

“Yeeeeeah well, that bird had it coming.” Sparx stated, puffing his chest out some.

“Anyway…before the escape, the Chronicler came to me with another vision, telling me to find him…at…odd.” Spyro creased his brow, as if he was deep in thought.

“What’s wrong, Spyro?” Cynder asked, approaching him a bit more closely.

“It’s just that…I can’t remember the name of the Chronicler’s home. But I remember it so distinctly…white sand adorned by a bright light at the tip of the island, halls of magically-infused stone, halls of just nothing but books…” Spyro reminisced. “But…for the life of me, I can’t remember what it was called.”

“Perhaps this is the Chronicler at work.” Ignitus spoke, his experience showing. “The Chronicler is many things, and no small amount of it illusive. Many tried to locate them in the past to no avail. Some…more far fetched tales regarding him say he could alter memories ever so slightly. If that’s true, it’s not entirely impossible to believe that he simply wiped the location and name from your memory. A necessary evil I’d say, if one like Malefor had ever found where the Chronicler lived…ancestors help us if he attained access to such extensive levels of knowledge.” Ignitus nodded his head.

“Well…that’s a bit of a terrifying thought, but it also makes a certain kind of sense. Tell us where to go when we need to…anyway, when we left the skavengers, I just flew for some time. That was, until I had another vision while flying over the Cadmus Ocean…I fell straight into the water. When I woke up again, it was on the island I mentioned, carried to land by a Leviathan of all things.” Spyro smiled ever so slightly.

“A leviathan? How fascinating! Truly you find yourself in the most remarkable of predicaments, young dragon!” Volteer beamed, both verbally and visibly.

“Fascinating? I call it dumb luck.” Sparx grinned at Spyro, who simply rolled his eyes in response.

“When we passed the Chronicler’s trials, he showed me a great deal…but most importantly, what Gaul’s plans for Cynder were.” He turned to Cynder, giving her a sympathetic look. “It was clear: submit or die…when Malefor stepped back into the world, Cynder would either return to his side…or be killed. The Chronicler had his own plan…he wanted me to stay with him, to hide and continue my training in secrecy…to ride out the storm and live to fight another day.” Spyro explained, sliding his claws against the floor uncomfortably.

“So…he offered to shelter you when Malefor returned…but clearly something happened. To be surrounded by the knowledge and experience of the dragon race for three years…even I would be tempted by this. What happened?” Cyril asked finally at the end of his statement.

“…I had to save Cynder.” His eyes looked to the side at the black dragoness. “I wouldn’t stand by in hiding as she was either converted back to Malefor’s side or killed…I failed when she left the temple. I wasn’t going to fail her again.” Spyro said in a sure manner. “The Chronicler…wasn’t as surprised by my choice, I think he knew I wasn’t going to hide while Cynder suffered.”

Cynder felt her face heat up once again, Spyro had given up so much to ensure her own safety. Saving her from the portal of convexity…the rescue from Gaul at the cost of near limitless knowledge and safety for years to follow.

All for her.

She looked down at her paws and rubbed them together, deep down she had so many words she wished to share with him, but she didn’t really know the full extent or how to properly vocalize them.

For now, she’d simply think about it.

“I went to the Well of Souls and confronted Gaul…the Night of Eternal Darkness hit it’s peak and dark aether…or, convexity, poured into it. Malefor’s return was assured by that point, but I…defeated Gaul.” He said, though his accent seemed to go warbly. Cynder knew then he wasn’t going to tell the guardians about his darker form. Perhaps that was for the best, it was a heavy topic to get into and Spyro still didn’t have any true answers for the elder dragons.

“The battle took a lot out of me and the mountain began to collapse around us…out of desperation, I pulled Cynder and Sparx close before trapping us in a physical manifestation of dragon time. A crystal, and in it we remained for three years…until the grublins and Hunter found us. When we woke up, we were taken to Avalar in an expansive catacomb network, it was here the earth golem first attacked us…Hunter saved us, and we escaped together. Aaaaaand…here we are.” Spyro smiled, glancing back up at the guardians.

“Quite the tale young dragon. We’ve much to discuss, but there will be time tomorrow for more talk regarding the war. As for now, come walk with me. Cyril, Volteer, Terrador? Meet us outside once you’ve concluded your final duties tonight, we’ll be waiting outside.” Ignitus stated, getting up and stretching some before leading Spyro, Cynder, and Sparx out of the guardian chambers.

Ignitus led the trio out of the chambers before sitting down near the stairs leading down to the lower level of the tower. More importantly, it gave them a grand scale view of the entire city below them.  The moons were rising high and the sun had almost completely set over the horizon, casting the city of Warfang in a blanket of blue-hued darkness, lit only by the Celestial Moons.

“Tell me something, Spyro…Cynder…and you too Sparx, what do you three see when you look upon the great dragon city of Warfang?” Ignitus asked softly, glancing down at them with his fiery eyes.

Spyro and Cynder seemed to ponder the question, their amethyst and emerald eyes scanning over the massive city below them in its entirety.

Sparx spoke first, of course.

“A really empty city with a busted wall.” Sparx said flatly.

“You are not wrong, young dragonfly.” Ignitus nodded his head.

“…Not many dragons.” Spyro said sadly, earning a nod in agreement from Cynder.

“Even with the settlement in hiding, the numbers of our people dwindle to the point that if we didn’t know better, we’d believe ourselves on the brink of extinction. We have more than enough reason to suspect there are divisions of dragons out in the scattered remnants of our old kingdom. We were winning the war until Cynder’s arrival…for all her destructive capabilities at the time, there’s simply no way she and the apes could wipe us out in such short time.” Ignitus explained, his voice soft.

“So more dragons are out there?” Cynder asked gently, earning a nod from Ignitus.

“Indeed there are Cynder…and once this war is over, we must do everything in our power to reunite our scattered people. Naturally, as word spreads of the war’s end, dragon groups will flock back to Warfang to seek their ancient home once again. Others…they’ll have to be found. But that can be discussed further as well…but can I count on your help in reforging our kingdom?” Ignitus asked, leaning his head down closer to their level. “I don’t see us pulling it off without your aid.”

“Of course you’ll have mine, Ignitus! I’ve been gone for so long that it’s only right I help the dragons even after the war is done.” Spyro said with a confident smile.

“Mine as well…my atonement extends beyond the war.” Cynder nodded in agreement.

“Great…more work.” Sparx grumbled, earning glares from the three dragons, to which he’d raise his arms in surrender.

Before more discussion could be had, the other three guardians would emerge from the chambers.

“Let us find a place for these two dragons to rest. It has been a long day and we’re due for some sleep.” Ignitus said as the other three dragons joined them.

The group of dragons and Sparx walked through the city with gentle steps as the night fell even further.

Ignitus walked with Terrador on his left side, Spyro and Cynder on his right flank. Cyril and Volteer followed up from behind.

“With the victory we earned today, momentum has swung to our side Ignitus. Perhaps now’s the time to take our limited numbers and go on the offensive…put and end to this war.” Terrador spoke firmly, glancing up to the defenses on the wall above them.

“Perhaps you’re right…but I won’t commit us to an offensive until we know more. Send scouts in the morning to the Burned Lands…assess the situation there. If the grublin numbers have waned enough, we’ll discuss the matter further.” Ignitus nodded.

Before more words could be shared, a bright light appeared above the wall, illuminating them all as a fiery image appeared!

“This can’t be good…” Spyro muttered,

“Come on!” Ignitus ordered. The guardians, Spyro, Cynder, and Sparx flying up to the wall with the intention of confronting the strange image.

Once they got close enough, they had gathered quite the crowd of dragon guards, moles, and even some of the cheetahs on the wall and down below in the street. All looked on the shadowy shape with mild interest and fear.

The shape shifted and instead of appearing in various shades of colors would shift to present a pair of menacing, bright golden eyes.

Cynder’s face contorted to one of fear and shock, shrinking away in an instant.

“Cynder, what’s wrong?!” Spyro asked, suddenly worried for her.

“It’s…it’s him!” She gasped, muzzle wrinkling as she recoiled a bit.

“…oh no.” Spyro muttered, turning back to the image.

“Citizens of Warfang…you likely think you’ve won a great victory. Well…I’m afraid I must spoil your celebration, but I must also congratulate you!” Malefor spoke, Cynder wincing at the sound of his voice…the same voice which had haunted her dreams and nightmares for years now. The first purple dragon’s tone was deep but had a certain raspy undertone. “Take heart…you in the city will bear witness to the resurrection of the Destroyer…and the end of the world as we know it.”

“Malefor…what have you done?” Ignitus growled, his teeth bared.

As the words left Ignitus’ mouth, the very earth beneath them began to shake and tremble! Off in the distance, they could see the volcano in the center of the Burned Lands erupt! Out of the magma being spewed came a pair of monstrous hands before what looked like a horrific face and set of horns emerged from the blaze!

The monster in question slowly rose from the volcano, the belt of fire surrounding the Burned Lands igniting far more fiercely than they had seen it do so before now.

“Great ancestors…what is that?!” Cyril looked at the monster incredulously.

“The Destroyer has been completed and will now begin its journey to form the ring of annihilation! At the end of the route, I shall use the Dragonstone in my possession to shatter the world from within! All will be engulfed in a torrent of fire and ash, and there shall be no escape!” Malefor mocked them almost, their battle to save the city seemingly having been for nothing. As quickly as his image had arrived, it dissipated into thin air.

“The destroyer…but that’s impossible!” Terrador muttered.

“And one of the Dragonstones?! How could Malefor acquire an artifact of such magnitude?!” Volteer questioned, his tone one of horror.

“Ignitus…I don’t understand…this is insane! What’s the Destroyer? What’s a dragonstone?!” Spyro asked of his mentor quickly, but Ignitus’ glance was less than satisfactory to the purple dragon.

“The ancients believed that this creature brought about the beginning of the next world…” Ignitus said softly.

“Well, I mean it looks horrifying but that sounds like a good thing!” Sparx stated, trying to sound cheery. To be honest the monster scared him as it started to walk, a trail of fire following it with every step.

“…by issuing the old world’s destruction.” Ignitus finished, having been interrupted by Sparx.

“Oh…” Was all the dragonfly could manage.

“It moves too quickly, to set out and try to give chase would be fruitless!” Terrador stated, turning to Ignitus, who simply nodded in agreement.

“You are right, old friend, we’ll have to wait for it to nearly complete it’s path…I’ve got an idea. It’s a longshot, but those are likely all we have now.” Ignitus said with a hint of regret in his voice. “We’ll intercept it by venturing out of the ruins beneath Warfang. Spyro and Cynder can pass through and unlock the path leading down there from inside.” Ignitus turned to glance to a massive door on the opposing end of Warfang.

“We will pass beneath the city to our backdoor, and once the Destroyer is close enough- we attack. Besides…this plan enables us to keep both the element of surprise and to not give away to Malefor that the city has been left unguarded.” He explains, before turning to Spyro and Cynder.

“Get as much rest as possible you two, you will have only a few hours to do so before we must gather at the gates leading to the underground ruins.” Ignitus leaned down to face them both.

Spyro and Cynder needed no further incentive. It felt wrong to sleep at such a time, but if they had a few hours to rest then it was better to do so than attempt a hopeless chase after the monster. They needed whatever energy they could manage out of some needed sleep. The two turned around, with Sparx in tow, and flew as quickly as they could back to the guardian chambers.

Ignitus watched them go, his gaze darkening.

“Ancestors…help us.” He said sadly.

Chapter Text

They had failed.

Spyro and Cynder along with Sparx had ventured into the ruins beneath Warfang, finding that instead of some dusty old halls…they found what was essentially an entire underground city. Expansive halls leading further and further down beneath the very foundations of the city above them.

There were entire sections of the ancient city dedicated to Malefor when he was an infant…like Spyro.

Grublins had already invaded beneath Warfang, proving a challenge to push their way through with some close calls after evading several traps placed in the ruins. But the end goal was all the same as they had managed to open the gates from within, thus allowing their forces to march forth and prepare to face off the Destroyer. The guardians led the way with the mole forces, the cheetahs, and the few dragon guards in the city down the stone pathway leading to the exit of the ruins.

Cynder came up with a brilliant plan to slow down the Destroyer, giving them time to destroy the dark crystals that powered it from within! It seemed to bear fruit when the water from the dam’s destruction stopped the Destroyer cold. The fight had been tiring, but Spyro and Cynder managed to destroy the Destroyer’s central crystal located deep in the center of the monster’s chest.

They had no reason to suspect it was anything less than dead, and that Malefor’s plan was foiled.

How wrong they were.

The Destroyer proved far more resilient than they could have possibly anticipated, seemingly reanimating itself before moving ever so slightly forward across the Silver River…and in doing so, completing the Ring of Annihilation.

Spyro felt his heart sink, unable to truly comprehend the situation now. He had pictured simply defeating the giant monster and being able to say they saved the world. But as the belt of fire seemed to lessen in strength, followed by an eruption from the Burned Lands volcano, signaled that the first phase of the end of the world was complete.

The enemy was now so close…so close…to achieving the final victory they needed to seal the world’s destruction.

“Ignitus…what do we do now?” Spyro asked, his voice filled with dread.

“There is nothing more that can be done…not here.” Ignitus said sadly, his gaze falling to the ground…before lifting and turning back to the forces they had gathered with them.

“Everyone, listen closely!” Ignitus raised his voice. “Not much time is left, everyone must get to shelter!” Ignitus ordered, his voice loud and flat.

“What about the settlement you mentioned, and the outlying populations beyond Warfang and those within the city?! They must be warned before time runs out!” Cynder exclaimed, her brows creasing.

“The city…Ignitus! The underground network beneath the city, there are countless cave networks down there and could provide shelter to everyone in the city and in any of the surrounding regions…we can lead them to safety!” Spyro explained, but Ignitus placed a paw on his shoulder.

“No, I need you and Cynder here, with me…I have a plan.” He stated, before turning to the others. “Hunter!” He addressed the cheetah. “Send you falcon, Ana, to the furthest populated regions with the message to get beneath the surface, as deeply as they can manage!” He ordered, the cheetah bowing his head in response.

“Volteer, venture to the settlement and retrieve our fellow dragons! Bring them to Warfang! Terrador, Cyril – you will lead everyone you can manage into the underground city! Now go, all of you!” Ignitus shouted, and soon everyone would turn and carry out the fire guardian’s orders…all except Terrador.

“You’re up to something Ignitus…I’ve known you for too long to think otherwise.” Terrador frowned, earning a tired expression from Ignitus as the fire dragon leaned in closely.

“Go with the others Terrador…! There will be disorder and a great panic, it will take a strong leader to keep them from running amok! Keep order until we can return, now go!” Ignitus ordered his friend, to which Terrador reluctantly bowed his head before taking off after the other three guardians back to Warfang.

Spyro slowly approached Ignitus’ side, giving him a worried look.

“We have to confront Malefor, don’t we? Before he can use the stone.” Spyro stated, earning a regretful nod from Ignitus.

“I see no other way!” Ignitus craned his head towards the wall of flames. “The belt is weakened and will only remain so for a short time…but if we can get through, then we may have a chance to prevent Malefor from completing his preparations!” Ignitus explained, eyeing the belt of fire in the distance cautiously.

“If we aren’t cooked by the flames…do we have a plan for that?” Cynder asked of Ignitus, but Sparx confidently puffed out his chest.

“Aw come on! A little fire never hurt us before! We’ve been through worse at this point!” Sparx smiled at Spyro…but the look his purple brother gave him made Sparx feel rather weak.

“Sparx…you can’t come with us.” Spyro said sadly, his wings drooping some.

“What?! But- no! No, I always go with you!” Sparx’s comedic demeanor faltered instantly. “I’ve been by your side since we were hatchlings Spyro! There’s no way I’m leaving you now!” Sparx shouted, trying his best not to sound as if he’d tear up.

“Sparx the Burned Lands will be harmful even to us over an extended period of time, you’ll be dead before we even pass the belt!” Spyro exclaimed, his eyes sad. He wanted nothing more than to tell Sparx he could go with them…but for his brother’s safety, he had to send him back.

“Spyro is right, Sparx…you would not survive the belt, let alone the rest of the Burned Lands.” Ignitus said in a soft tone, trying to calm the dragonfly down some.

“They need a guide, someone who’s been to the underground city already. You can escort them safely and help everyone get to shelter.” Spyro explained, trying hard not to tear up in front of his brother.

“This is serious Sparx, they need you back in Warfang!” Cynder stated, perhaps that statement above all others coming from her shocked him to the core.

“But…but…you need me there! I- I promised dad I’d look out for you!” Sparx said, his antenna drooping.

“Right now, there’s an entire city that needs you more…please, Sparx…go.” Spyro pleaded with his brother. Sparx’s shoulders drooped before he relented. Before anymore words could be said, Sparx dove forward and embraced Spyro in as tight of a hug as he could manage, arms clinging to Spyro’s golden crest.

“Just be safe bro…” Sparx said quietly, while Spyro returned the embrace, a paw raising up to hold Sparx close for a moment, before they both pulled away.

Sparx’s gaze turned on Cynder now.

“Cynder…just promise me you’ll look after him?” Sparx asked sadly. Cynder’d gaze hardened in an instant.

“I will Sparx…I promise.” Cynder lightly smiled, and for one of the few times ever Sparx actually returned the gesture, a smile crossing his face too- though his eyes conveyed only sadness.

She wouldn’t say it, but deep down it warmed her heart for the dragonfly to show her a semblance of acceptance.

As Spyro, Ignitus, and Cynder lifted off the ground with a flap of their wings, he turned back to his dragonfly brother.

“Be careful Sparx…and good luck.” Spyro nodded firmly, earning a sheepish chuckle from Sparx.

“Hey it’s me, remember? Being careful is my thing.” Sparx said confidently...though once the trio of dragons turned to begin their journey to the Belt of Fire, the dragonfly couldn’t stop the tear that rolled down his right cheek.

When the trio landed before the belt of fire, the heat was so intense that they felt as though they’d melt just from being so close to it…and they weren’t even close to touching the flames themselves!

Ignitus stared defiantly at the belt, his scales shimmering with power before he spoke.

“Stay close to me, I should be able to shield us from the heat…long enough for us to pass.” He ordered firmly, the two young dragons huddling close to Ignitus as he erected a barrier of blue energy around them. Once he was sure the two were secure, he’d begin his slow march into the belt of fire.

The heat was almost unbearable, smothering as the three dragons slowly passed through the belt. Spyro and Cynder moved slowly to try and keep up with the fire guardian as he marched them through the belt!

“So…hot…!” Cynder gasped. Spyro and Ignitus could resist fire and heat better than other dragons, but Cynder was struggling against the overbearing heat. Spyro noted her struggle and tried to mimic Ignitus and raise his own heat barrier, but Ignitus took note of this!

“No! N-not in here Spyro! You’ll drain what strength you have left!” Ignitus exclaimed, the purple dragon slinking down some as he stopped attempting to raise the shield. “My strength goes into this shield, yours must be to finish this and bring down Malefor, once and for all.” He bared his teeth, struggling to maintain the bubble of energy that protected them from the heat.

They had to be getting close…halfway at the very least! It felt to Spyro and Cynder like they had walked for ages already, just pushing through the belt welt like a lifetime. They were, however, given much reason to be concerned when the barrier around them began to dim ever so slightly.

Spyro and Cynder’s eyes darted to Ignitus, who looked in rough shape. His eyes were contorted into one of struggle and his muscles looked tense.

“Ignitus! The barrier!” Spyro called out, alerting Ignitus to it as they kept pushing through the flames of the belt.

Ignitus let out a roar of effort as he gave the barrier a second wind attempt to keep up, the shield regaining strength and reforming around them as it once had.

“Keep moving, we’re almost there!” Ignitus said in a strained tone, and soon enough they’d see that the fire guardian was right! The other end of the divide between the land outside and past coming into view! They made one final push and finally emerged from the other end of the Belt, right in time too as it seemed to start gaining strength.

Ignitus walked forward a few more steps, but quickly collapsed onto his belly. Spyro and Cynder both gasped before going to the fire guardian’s side.

“Ignitus! Ignitus, are you alright?!” Spyro quickly asked, nudging Ignitus some before the guardian slowly reopened his eyes.

“T-time is short. You will have to go on without me.” Ignitus said, his voice filled with exhaustion and some pain. “I will only slow you both down…you must stop Malefor before he can power the dragonstone.”

“But…I left Sparx behind back there…I can’t leave you behind either!” Spyro said as he tried to nudge Ignitus up again, but the fire guardian could barely move.

“Spyro…I can barely feel my wings…you and Cynder must press on. You can do this…I know you can.” Ignitus said softly, eyes pleading with Spyro for the purple dragon to press on.

“I…” Spyro started, but quickly lost the words in that instant.

“Spyro, he’s right, we need to go on!” Cynder placed a paw on Spyro’s shoulder, drawing him back to the reality of their situation. “I’m right by your side, we can do this!” Cynder leaned in to press the side of her head against his, bringing the purple dragon momentary comfort.

 Ignitus slowly lifted his head, regretting it a bit as it hurt for the old fire guardian just to move.

“Once I regain my strength, I’ll move as swiftly as my body allows me to join you. But you cannot wait for me. Please, Spyro, go!” Ignitus verbally pleaded now. Spyro relented and slowly nodded his head.

“Alright…let’s go Cynder.” Spyro said, though he did so reluctantly. The two lifted off the ground and would take off into the Burned Lands together, leaving Ignitus behind near the belt to recover his energy.

“May the ancestors look after you both…” Ignitus muttered, leaning back down as he soon succumbed to his exhaustion. “…may they look after us all.”

Spyro and Cynder fought hard to get through the first stretch of the Burned Lands, facing all manner of grublin monsters. From the lowliest of grublin fodder up to the hero orcs! The grublins were seemingly throwing their lives away for the sake of keeping Spyro and Cynder away from the floating islands which led to Malefor’s lair.

The foreboding fortress hovered above the raging volcano like a bad omen to any who gazed upon it. To Spyro and Cynder, that sensation was no less now that they saw it ever growing closer. The sight of his lair caused Cynder to shudder in fear.

Spyro turned his gaze to her, concern painting his face now as he nudged her.

“What’s wrong Cynder?” Spyro asked softly. They had been fighting tooth and nail to get through the Burned Lands, they could afford a moment to simply stop and talk, a chance to catch their breath.

“I…when I look at his fortress…it just keeps flashing in my head, the idea of what could happen.” She muttered under her breath. “I don’t know if I can do this, Spyro…” She looked down at her paws sadly.

“Truth be told, I don’t know if I can either.” Spyro admitted. “But I’m still going to try.”

“It’s just…when I think of him, I just think to when I was little more than a hatchling. Before Gaul turned me into the Terror…the last thing I remember before the transformation was screaming…and then only darkness.” She frowned. “I was aware of the things I did…I know I did terrible things. Deep down I should want to rip him apart, but all I can feel is the need to turn back and run.” She shuddered again.

“We can’t turn back now.” Spyro stated firmly, earning a glance from her emerald gaze. Even with so much smoke and ash in the air, he could only admire those lovely green eyes of her. “We’ve come so far…if we don’t take a stand, we lose everything. I won’t let the world go without a fighting chance.”

Spyro leaned in, despite the awful environment they found themselves in, he could only give her that signature kind gaze of his. She felt her legs go a bit wobbly as he maintained the eye contact for a long moment.

“We can do this. You can do this. It’s terrifying to think of what we’ll find in there…but we’ll do this as we started this: together.” Spyro said softly, before pulling his paw away. As he stepped back and turned to glance up past the dark clouds residing over the Burned Lands, she felt like her heart had tripled in speed, words built up in her mind she so wished to manifest.

“Spyro…I…” She said quietly- too quietly for him to hear though.

“We need to get up higher- the air’s too thick down here…feels like we’re suffocating on ash.” Spyro said back to her. She sighed, silently cursing herself under her breath as she hadn’t been confident enough to just make her words be heard by the purple dragon.

“With you, Spyro.” She said aloud. That he heard. The two took off and made their way to the floating islands that led to the fortress. They could already spot wyverns and other grublins defending the area around the centrale path that led up to the fortress, preparing for another fight.

The floating islands surrounding Malefor’s lair had been a welcome break from the awful Burned Lands, though the fight had been rather tedious for the two young dragons. Wyverns still proved to be a hassle to fight their way through. But they made their way regardless.

They lost much valuable time, but simply going around the gate leading to the entrance of Malefor’s lair prevented access. They had to pass through the gate…which meant finding each brazier on the islands. But the two dragons were determined to see this through, any obstacle in their way was pushed aside by the duo of dragons.

Perhaps regrettably, they found themselves marching upon the very gate of the fortress, the first thought in their heads was that the first purple dragon wasn’t subtle with presentation. The very door of his lair had a menacing ‘M’ engraved into the stone. The entire bridge leading to his fortress was lined with massive dragon statues…ironic, considering how far from grace the original purple dragon had fallen with his own kind.

Spyro stopped suddenly a short distance from the door, turning to face Cynder.

“Are you ready? This is it…the final push.” Spyro spoke softly, trying to offer her any last minute comfort he could manage.

“I…I’m scared, Spyro…” She admitted, looking away from him.

“I am too…just stay close to me.” He said firmly, to which she’d simply nod before they both continued walking towards the doors of the fortress.

When they arrived, the double-doors slid open slowly, revealing the inside of Malefor’s home fortress, walls of reddish stone, dark braziers lining the entire central chamber…and a massive throne in the center of the room.

Sitting on the throne was none other than Malefor.

He was large, taller than even the guardians. His scales had lost some of their old purple complexion and it was more of a faded pink hue, gold membranes and belly faded into a dull yellow that showed more like brown. He had three large horns followed up by some smaller horns in between. And those eyes…they bore the very nature of evil in those low, golden eyes.

“At long last, the guests of honor have arrived. Please, make yourselves at home, oh mighty Spyro and Cynder.” The older dragon rose from the throne, bowing his head mockingly. That voice, like at the wall of Warfang, was almost suave with a raspy undertone to it. “So determined to get here, Spyro…like it not, but we share more qualities than just the color of our scales.”

“Quiet…don’t even go there, I’m nothing like you and I never will be!” Spyro huffed in return. Slowly, the larger dragon got up and started to circle around the two.

“You think so? How unfortunate, if it’s true…to squander our power for such frivolous purposes. But we’ll come back to that.” He said with a sly smile. Spyro indeed found it a bit difficult to not let that voice worm its way into his head, but looking back and seeing Cynder by his side kept him grounded.

“Don’t listen to him.” Cynder said coldly, staring defiantly at Malefor, who simply rolled his eyes.

“You both look so weary…so exhausted. Let me remove those so you can make yourselves more comfortable.” Malefor grinned, and in that instant, the snake-chain faded from both of their necks! Just like that, the thing keeping them tethered was gone. Spyro couldn’t garner his angle…what he was hoping to gain from this.

“That’s better…being chained like an animal does get tiring…wouldn’t you agree, Cynder?” He grinned at the black dragoness.

“I’ll kill you-!” Cynder barked, trying to lunge for Malefor, but Spyro quickly intervened!

“Don’t do it Cynder! He’s just trying to goad you on…” He turned back to Malefor, a snarl forming on his muzzle. “…as for you, leave her alone. You’ve done enough to her with the way you used her for so long!” Spyro shot back.

“I used her?” Malefor laughed aloud, almost maniacally, Cynder winced at the very sound of it. Hearing that laugh seemed to bring back many nightmares to her…just hearing his laughter in her thoughts. “Take a good look at your reflection Spyro…don’t be a fool…she used you. In the end, she served her purpose.”

“Liar, she’d never do that to me! Tell him, Cynder!” Spyro spat back defiantly, expecting to hear Cynder retort as well.

The silence was his only answer, and after several long moments, Spyro glanced back at Cynder…who was looking only at the ground…an air of shame surrounded the black dragoness.

“Cynder…?” Spyro asked quietly, brows creasing some.

“So naïve…” Malefor muttered. “Do you think it was mere convenience that your path following her led you to the Well of Souls? I needed more Spyro…the Night of Eternal Darkness wasn’t all I needed for my soul to return to my essence. I needed the power of a purple dragon to pass into the dark aether that poured into my mountain to truly funnel enough strength for my return! She lured you to the Well of Souls and tricked you into freeing me!”

“No! I’d never use Spyro like that! What you think I did…I didn’t do on purpose to help you!” She hissed back at her former master.

“View it however you like…but know well Spyro, it was you who freed me, and you who brought me back! And we both have Cynder to thank for my return.” Malefor chortled, causing Cynder’s guard to ease some.

She was slipping.

“Cynder…tell me this isn’t true…” Spyro looked at her sadly.

“No! Spyro…I’ve done heinous things, but I’d never trick you into doing such an awful act…seeing what it did to you…no. No…I don’t know if I did some things unknowingly to help him. But I do know that I didn’t aid him willingly!” She defended herself. But Malefor simply rolled his eyes again.

“She will say anything to defend herself now, Spyro…but let’s give her a little nudge in the right direction, shall we? Maybe then she’ll be more loose-lipped.” Malefor grinned as his eyes flashed with some sort of energy.

In that instant, Spyro felt as though his entire world was turned on its side.

Cynder was engulfed in shadow and her eyes went solid white…much like his own dark form.

“CYNDER!” Spyro cried out, but she didn’t hear him. Not anymore. She landed back on the ground, her gaze turning upon Spyro coldly, no life behind those white eyes...not where those gorgeous emerald eyes should have been.

“The Chronicler did warn you, Spyro…when I returned, she would submit. Ignitus should have warned you, foolish dragon…in the end, you will always be alone.” Malefor snarled, gesturing to Cynder and back to Spyro.

Cynder said nothing, but she took an aggressive stance and faced him, convexity flickering at her muzzle!

“I’m sure you’ve been sung the old tale about how I was the first of our kind, Spyro…I once believed in such foolish lies. I assure you that there have been many more before us- and it was our charge to bring about the end of this world! To bring back the golems of the deep, the Destroyer, the great cleansing…that is the nature of us, Spyro. Our destiny is to destroy this world, once and for all…”

“No, I won’t believe you! You lie and that’s all I need to know!” Spyro stated defiantly!

“Of course, you don’t believe me…I care little. I have the chance to make things right…for in my time, I was stopped, prevented from completing my quest. But you, young Spyro, have carried the flame of my work. And soon, the world will be annihilated- you along with it!” Malefor mocked the purple dragon.

“I offer you one choice Spyro…die willingly at the end of all things or die by her paw here and now.” Malefor sneered.

“I…no…you’ll get nothing more from me!” Spyro spat back at him, earning an eyeroll from Malefor.

“Kill him.” Malefor said harshly, Cynder’s muscles immediately tensed as she began approaching Spyro with malicious intent!

“Cynder…please…don’t do this!” Spyro pleaded, but as she opened her mouth, he yelped before rolling aside as she unleashed a beam of dark aether right at him! Spyro regained his footing before rolling away again when she landed hard on the stone floor near him, lashing out at her friend without any second thought as to what she was doing!

“I’m not going to fight you-!” Spyro yelled before he narrowly dodged out of the way of a tail-strike from Cynder! Time and time again he had to avoid her physical attacks! But in this form Cynder was faster than he could ever hope to evade forever. He moved aside from another attack as she thrust with her tail, the blade piercing through a stone pillar he’d been backed against like it was nothing!

Despite the danger he was in, he couldn’t bring himself to harm Cynder. She was still his friend and deep down he knew she was still in there. When she lashed out again with her tail, he shot a bundle of ice at the floor which sprung up and ensnared her tail!

“Cynder, you have to fight him! Don’t let him control you like this!” He shouted to Cynder, trying so hard for her to come to her senses, but the dragoness still seemed completely unmoved by his pleas! She screeched before her tail broke free from the ice and reeled back to slash Spyro across the side of his torso, the purple dragon crying out as it cut into his scales- but the blade didn’t pierce any further.

“Try in vain if you must, Spyro, but it will change nothing. Either you will be forced to fight back, or she’ll kill you…I care not which…whatever comes first.” Malefor said uncaringly, simply standing by as the two dragons were engaged in battle.

“Fight back!” Cynder growled as she chased after Spyro, clawing and swiping at him relentlessly! Spyro desperately tried to avoid her attacks, but he couldn’t simply keep outrunning her! The purple dragon would try to block her with his wings, only for the membranes to give way before he was tossed across the room! He hit the wall before falling to the ground, groaning before he narrowly missed a tail-thrust from the black dragoness!

“Cynder please! I won’t fight you!” Spyro pleaded, desperately trying to get through to her, still to no avail as she lashed out at him. But this time he was ready as he’d muster the power of ice! He let out a blast of frost which ensnared Cynder in a prison surrounding her entire body! She went stiff up to the head, which threatened to unleash a blast of convexity even now!

“Please, Cynder, listen to me! This isn’t you! Fight him! Remember what he did to you, what he made you do!” Spyro pleaded with her evermore, but the black dragoness seemed to be a million miles away from him. Malefor just laughed maniacally as he watched Spyro try in vain to talk reason into Cynder. This time however, Spyro saw movement behind those white eyes.

Perhaps Malefor’s control didn’t extend as deeply as he feared!

He only barely managed to avoid her convexity breath as it surged forth, the ice shattering into thousands of shards before she lunged onto Spyro! She brutally swatted him into a wall, striking at the purple dragon once again as she forced him onto the ground.

Spyro groaned, his body aching from the punishment he was being forced to endure, a light trickle of blood going down the side of his torso now. He bared his teeth in slight pain, shoving Cynder off and getting up to slowly back away from her as she cornered Spyro.

“Fight BACK!” The dark form of Cynder shouted violently at him, lashing out at the purple dragon with her blade-like tail, slicing at him again! She nicked him with the end of her tail blade, drawing more blood from his torso! But still Spyro tried to fight her defensively, refusing to strike back.

Spyro was backed up to the wall as Cynder crept closer to him, claws dragging against the stone floor. He had only one last chance to get through to her without needing to fight…but it was ever a longshot.

But when were his plans ever not longshots? Spyro had to try something drastic to get through to her, otherwise he’d be trying fruitlessly to get through to her.

“Fine…” Spyro relented, dropping his defensive stance as she grew closer. “…do it. I won’t stop you.” Spyro left himself open to any attack as she dragged her claws across the floor.

“But Ignitus, the guardians- they believed in you! Hunter and Sparx too…but most of all I believed in you.” He said determinedly. “You lost everything to Malefor, only you can stop him from taking anything else! He and Gaul stole your childhood, your life, everything!”

“Don’t let him beat you…don’t be the monster he made you into.” Spyro said sadly, Cynder nearly on him now, claws raised to rend through his scales! But he could see it deeply in those white eyes- they were struggling. Deep down, he knew she was fighting! “If another life has to be taken so that you’ll be free…then so be it…take mine.” Spyro said calmly.

Cynder stopped cold in her tracks.

‘Take mine…’

This didn’t go unnoticed by Spyro, the black dragoness hesitating and not dealing the killing blow to him. He leaned in closer to her, daring to do so at this point. One slip-up, and he could very well end up dead. But he wouldn’t give up on her. Not now. Not ever.

“Come on Cynder…I know you’re in there. Deep down I know you’re fighting!” He attempted to get through to her. “You’re strong Cynder, stronger than he thinks you are! I know somewhere in there is the dragoness who fought by my side! The one who I fought to save from Gaul! He thinks you’re just a tool to use and discard when he’s done with you!” Spyro said harshly, his gaze falling on Malefor…who had taken very real note of the fact that Cynder hesitated.

“You’re not a tool…you’re not a monster. You’re Cynder, and that means you choose who you are…not him!” Spyro said defiantly, now so close to Cynder’s face now. She tensed, claw raising further. Spyro winced some but shook his head as he maintained his stare with her. He shook off his fears and faced her stalwartly.

“No matter what, Cynder…” He looked her directly in the eyes, placing a paw on her cheek ever so softly, the dark form of Cynder threatening to deliver the blow as convexity built up in her claws. “…I forgive you.”

She swung the paw down- Spyro closed his eyes, ready to take the hit in that instant, prepared to face oblivion.

But what he felt stunned him to the core.

Instead of a crippling blow- he felt only warmth. He opened his eyes to finally see that the dragoness hadn’t struck him down…but instead hugged him. Her paws clung tightly to Spyro as the dark shadows around her evaporated into mist. Her eyes were slammed shut as she held Spyro close to her, silently sobbing against him.

“Thank you….” She shuddered, her eyes opening once again to show her emerald eyes as they should have been. He smiled broadly before returning the embrace, folding his wings around her back tightly. “…for believing in me.” He just sighed in relief, closing his eyes a short moment as he returned the embrace.

“Always…” He said softly, the purple dragon’s eyes opened once again, and they widened into saucers! He held Cynder tight as he rolled them to the side abruptly! Where they had once been standing, Malefor seared with a blast of convexity from his paw, seamlessly using the power without as much effort as they needed! He’d raise the paw up to reveal a strange gem hovering in his grip.

“So be it! You chose affection over power- I’ll simply destroy you both here and now! You’ve both been a thorn in my side for too long, you’re more trouble than you’re worth! But with the dragonstone I found, I’ll have more than enough strength to finish you both off and complete my work. You strive in vain, but fate is with me.” Malefor snarled, opening his maw to charge up a convexity attack in that instant, the dragonstone fluctuating with power as it seemed to enhance Malefor’s buildup!

Before either of them could make a move, the very ceiling of the fortress came crashing down in a tumble! Fire shot forth as a wave of it and stone from the ceiling landed on Malefor’s back! He bellowed in both pain and frustration at having been interrupted! The thing which had caused the ceiling cave-in landed, tackling into Malefor!

“Ignitus!” Spyro called out, the fire guardian having come charging in to aid them against the first purple dragon! Malefor quickly regained his composure and pushed back against Ignitus as the fire guardian bashed and clawed at him! Malefor was more powerful in this sense though as he’d clash horns with Ignitus, shoving him into the ground through sheer strength alone!

“You are a fool, Ignitus…! This concerns you no longer! You and your guardians are out of time and will fail all the same!” Malefor snarled.

“On the contrary, Malefor, with these two involved…it concerns me greatly!” Ignitus growled as he got up as quickly as he could, releasing a fireball right at Malefor! But the purple dragon cared little for his feeble elemental attacks and let out a simple puff of frost, the fireball dissipating almost instantly before Malefor proceeded to reel back a paw and strike Ignitus across the face! Ignitus hissed as the attack drew blood, trying to reel back a spinning tail strike to the purple dragon! But his attack was in vain when Malefor simply ducked beneath it and merely backhanded the old fire dragon with a convexity-charged strike!

Ignitus was sent back several feet, crying out as he struck both Spyro and Cynder on the way down! They all fell together in a tumble, the two now laying scattered near the old fire dragon.

“So be it…I’ll simply have to destroy you all. Starting with these two pests!” He roared, raising the dragonstone once again as he charged up a blast of convexity, aiming right for Spyro and Cynder as they were slow to get back up.

Ignitus heard his words and knew there wasn’t enough time to intercept Malefor before he unleashed the blast. Spyro and Cynder were still slow to get back to their paws after being struck by the guardian as he’d flown across the room.

He had a choice to make.

Ignitus felt as if time stopped for him, his very life passing right before his eyes. From his childhood, the training he’d gone through, finding the dragoness of his life, the promotion to fire guardian…the war…thinking of his child.

Then his memory flashed back to the day the purple dragons’s egg was left at the temple…he had never seen the original parents, nor had they made themselves known. The temple raid…seeing Gaul leave the temple with Cynder’s egg. The night of their great failure to protect the eggs, as was their sacred charge as guardians.

How he had failed Spyro and Cynder both.

‘I’m sorry my son…but I’ll see you again someday.’

As Malefor unleashed his blast of convexity, it rang out in all of their ears as the surge of energy shot forth, aiming right for Cynder and Spyro!

Spyro and Cynder both tried to get out of the way as quickly as they could, but the last thing they ever saw was the fire guardian leaping in the way of the blast! Ignitus cried out as the beam of convexity struck him to the very core, scales starting to turn to a dull gray as he was petrified!

“IGNITUUUUUUS!” Spyro cried out!

The beam of convexity fell silent, and nothing remained of Ignitus except a mere scatter of dust.

Cynder looked as though she had been slapped across the face, seeing the fire guardian petrified and turned to dust…the ache on her heart already weighed her down. She closed her eyes as if hoping it was just a bad dream.

But this was reality…very much so.

“What have you done?!” A harrowing voice rang out, Cynder’s gaze darting back to where Spyro had been. What Cynder saw was the dark form of Spyro as he shot forward towards Malefor, who bore witness to Spyro’s dark transformation.

“Such power…!” Malefor said astonishedly, but his study was quickly interrupted as Spyro crashed into him with a convexity fueled comet dash, the sheer explosion of power sent Malefor tumbling to the other side of the room.

It wasn’t fear or horror that painted Malefor’s face, however.

It was joy, the older purple dragon letting out a bellowing laugh as he slowly got up, being circled by Spyro now.

Cynder had to stop him…her heart screamed at her to let Spyro hurt Malefor…but she couldn’t let him do this. With a summoning of shadows, she vanished into the floor beneath her.

‘He killed Ignitus! He must pay!’

‘Murderer!’

‘Ignitus deserved better!’

‘Monster! Villain!’

‘Destroy him.’

These words rang around in Spyro’s head now, the twisted dark form of the young purple dragon taking control over Spyro now. Deep down Spyro’s true self conflicted with his alter-ego, but the rage had been so blinding following the murder of Ignitus. Every fiber of the purple dragon’s being demanded Malefor bleed for the death of his mentor.

“This is it, Spyro! His death unleashed your true potential!” Malefor goaded the other dragon on, almost a proud tone to his voice! “Strike me down and become my successor!” Malefor grinned. “This is your destiny- to take my place and secure the world’s destruction!”

Spyro unleashed a blast of convexity, sending Malefor flying into the wall on the far side of the throne room! Malefor hit the wall with a hefty thud, the stone cracking some upon impact before he fell back down to the floor.

Spyro was about to start approaching Malefor once again but was stopped dead in his tracks when Cynder appeared from the floor in front of him in a veil of shadows!

“Spyro, STOP!” She stamped her paws down. Spyro said nothing, those blank white eyes staring directly back at her without any sense of emotion whatsoever. He reached out with an inky-black paw and tried to move the dragoness out of the way, but she didn’t budge…despite that it was far harder than it looked.

Spyro’s dark form didn’t move past her, though that wasn’t for a lack of trying. Each time he tried, Cynder would shift to the side and put herself between Malefor and Spyro.

“This isn’t the way, Spyro…I know deep down you’re in pain…it hurts me too!” Cynder stared deeply into Spyro’s eyes. “But this isn’t what Ignitus would want! Don’t stoop to Malefor’s level to beat him!” Spyro tried to push her out of the way again, but Cynder anchored her paws into the ground with her shadow powers, no matter how hard he tried to move her, she wouldn’t budge.

But Spyro wasn’t re-emerging either.

“I made a promise to you and to Sparx, Spyro…I said I’d look after you. I said I’d be by your side. I very nearly failed both promises!” She whimpered, tears forming in her eyes. She had just witnessed the one guardian who originally vouched for her die before their very eyes…she wanted Spyro to mourn for Ignitus…not avenge him. Not like this.

“Vengeance isn’t the answer Spyro…not this way!” She exclaimed. “I know you and you’d never stoop to such a low…you’re a hero, Spyro. You’re my hero!” Cynder cried out. “And right now…you need to be the hero I know you are. The hero Ignitus knew you could be!”

“The brother Sparx followed from your childhood home, the hero who saved me in so many ways!” Cynder said as her voice croaked. “

“The dragon who I fell in love with.” She said…so quietly. Only he could hear her utter the faint words.

No! He must…pay!

But the voice in his head wouldn’t control him any longer. Spyro let out a groan as he seemingly shook the alter-ego out of his mind, face contorted in momentary pain, his eyes shutting closed. Several long moments passed before they finally reopened, Cynder sighing with relief as she was greeted to his handsome amethyst eyes once again.

The shadows dissipated and his scales returned to their brilliant purple and gold, his chest heaving as he took deep breaths.

“Cynder…you-?!” He started, but they were interrupted by a reverberating roar from Malefor.

“Fools, the both of you! You will not stop my work!” Malefor roared out in fury, his eyes flashing once again as the snake-chain returned around Spyro and Cynder’s necks! With a snarl, he leaped into the air and crashed through the stone ceiling of his throne room!

Spyro looked out the hole the ancient purple dragon had made, turning to look at Cynder.

“Are you with me?” He asked softly.

“To the end.” Cynder responded, her expression one of determination and confidence. With her confirmation, the two set off after Malefor!

They flew into the sky high over the Burned Lands, clouded with reddish hue to it all! It was almost hard to breathe through it, but it was far easier to manage than the ashen lands down below on the surface.

They could see Malefor’s outline contrasting from the clouds all around them, the two had their path clear as they soared through the fog. Spyro led the way as they began to circle around Malefor, the purple dragon becoming visible through peeks in the clouds!

“Perhaps we both knew it would one day come to this, purple dragon facing down purple dragon! So let us face destiny together, Spyro!” Malefor called out, charging at the two as they pushed through the clouds.

“Let’s do this Cynder!” Spyro called back to the dragoness as they charged through the red mist and ashes! Time seemed to slow down as the two young dragons charged directly for their foe!

They narrowly missed Malefor as he crashed right past them, Spyro and Cynder lashed out at his scales! They landed true but it seemed to do little to deter Malefor as he lashed out with one of his strong paws! He narrowly missed the two of them as they ducked down hard! Spyro growled as he let out a burst of flames at Malefor, but the fire merely licked at the elder dragon’s scales!

Cynder would try and lash out with a blast of acidic poison – it seemed to land a bit better than Spyro’s fire, latching onto Malefor’s scale! Malefor lashed out at the pain as he swatted at the two dragons again! The convexity licking at his claws nearly singing Cynder before he reared back with a swat of his tail! This time the strike landed and the two went flying back a good distance!

Cynder gasped before letting out a gust of wind which corrected their own flight! They didn’t have long to think before Malefor charged right for them again, the dragonstone still fluctuating with power as he charged his own strength with it! The two once again barely managed to dodge Malefor’s next attack as he swung heavily, Spyro and Cynder both retaliating by going in with a twin horn charge! They struck Malefor hard this time and the older dragon recoiled with an angered growl!

“Cretins!” He called out, before opening his maw wide, launching forth a barrage of convexity projectiles! They whistled and screeched through the air, Spyro and Cynder narrowly avoiding each one that came their way!

“DOWN!” Spyro called out as he nearly tackled Cynder to get her out of the way of a projectile! They recovered and tried to spot Malefor but couldn’t track him through the thick clouds! How had they managed to lose such a large dragon?

They didn’t have time to wonder before Malefor reappeared from behind them! They noticed too late as Malefor struck them both with a single paw! Spyro collided into Cynder, and they went spiraling out of the elder dragon’s way!

They spiraled for some time until Spyro regained his composure and grappled Cynder in his grasp, wings opening hard as he repositioned them so they could properly fly once again.

Cynder heaved some, Malefor still not far from their position, simply waiting for the two young dragons to attack again.

“Spyro how are we supposed to beat him?! We’ve barely landed a scratch…!” She huffed, already they were starting to drain what stamina they had.

“Maybe we’re going about this the wrong way, we’re trying to fight him directly…but if we hit quick and get out, maybe we can goad him into doing something drastic.” Spyro pondered it over, glancing at Cynder to see if she approved.

She didn’t seem as convinced, but she trusted him.

“Alright, we’ll go with it. Conventional is out, on you.” She nodded her head.

“Alright, I’ll go high, you go low! Use the chain for momentum!” Spyro said before they circled around again! The two began flying as hard as they could, Cynder enhancing their speed with the wind!

Malefor glanced around, still waiting for the attack to come! But he was unprepared when a blast of electricity rang out with a *BZZZT* from the clouds behind him! It jolted into Malefor, his body twitching in pain some before he turned to confront the attacker- only to be struck by a torrent of siren wails! The red projectiles struck Malefor in the face, momentarily flooding his vision with illusions, burning his scales where they landed!

He quickly shrugged the illusions off before unleashing a beam back in the direction the two dragons flew away from him in! The two narrowly missed the blast before they circled back around, charging up another elemental attack as they shot towards Malefor like a pair of javelins soaring through the air!

Spyro unleashed a torrent of ice shards that shot right at Malefor’s face! Malefor would let out a surge of flames that melted the shards before they could make contact – but this worked against him as Cynder flew below Spyro and unleashed as surge of poison right for his now exposed gut! It struck Malefor and began burning and melting his scales away! He roared out in pain, clutching the spot she had struck, the two dragons shooting by Malefor and back into the clouds from whence they came!

“Run all you like!” Malefor seethed. “Your attacks are nothing!” Malefor bellowed! The two dragons managed to catch him by surprise when they both shot from the clouds again! Spyro’s horns crashed directly into Malefor’s sternum in a fiery and explosive comet-dash! Malefor howled at the pain of the strike before Cynder followed up in a fancy move she had designed during their fight with the grublins! She began spinning at a rapid pace like a tornado, her tail lined with poison as she struck Malefor in the gut with her scythe-like tail blade! This time the strike cut a bit deeper and Malefor was now combatting poison in his system!

“Wretches, begone!” He roared, swatting at them and this time catching them as they attempted to fly away, the two going spiraling again before they could regain their flight composure once more!

Just as they prepared to fight again, Spyro and Cynder looked down at the surface in horror. They could see the Destroyer as it slowly began to crawl back into the volcano from which it had emerged! The heat from the action was so intense that they could feel it from up in the air high over the Burned Lands!

“No, no, no!” Spyro cried out as it vanished into the volcano. “We’re too late!”

“And so, it begins…welcome to the end of the world young dragons, bear witness to the glory of the great cleansing!” Malefor roared aloud!

The reaction was almost instantaneous, the belt of fire surged with life and began to grow even more powerful and expansive! It wouldn’t be long before it began to spread across the surface of their world next! The very land began to tremble and quake, seams tearing open in the surfaces beneath where they flew!

They were running out of time.

Malefor’s lair shattered apart almost instantaneously and began plummeting into the very volcano where it had resided over, the Destroyer now gone and giving them a straight shot down to the planet’s core! Malefor darted back down to retreat back into his lair, they knew it was now or never to stop the ritual from commencing!

“It’s not over while the dragonstone still isn’t fully powered, come on!” Cynder exclaimed, earning a nod from Spyro as they both began to dive after the falling fortress and Malefor!

Terrador was overseeing the line of moles and cheetahs flooding into the underground city as he had dedicated himself to doing. Cyril was further in ensuring that order remained steady. The earth guardian had already broken up several arguments as the people anxiously walked in line to seek shelter beneath the surface.

Hunter wasn’t far away, helping to usher the moles and cheetahs inside in a neat and orderly fashion. His help was most appreciated, those who could reach Warfang from the valley already had thanks to the swiftness of Ana. The falcon had worked hard to ensure the message could be spread across the land! Every mole village outside of warfang was told, as were every village in Avalar told. Those who couldn’t reach Warfang or lived in other regions were forced to seek shelter their own way underground.

Terrador glanced up to the sky as he saw a large group of winged figures approaching, his guard dropping some as he recognized Volteer at the head of their group. When they landed in the city, the electricity guardian let out a heavy exhale.

“Hah, I haven’t flown so hard in years! Exhilarating!” He chimed. Truly, nothing except Cyril could dampen his spirit at times.

“Everyone from the settlement accounted for?” Terrador asked of his fellow guardian, who just gave him a simple nod. Another dragoness went to Volteer’s side, slenderer than either of them, colored a lovely icy white with cyan accents mixed into her scales, a set of translucent horns cresting her head in a stag-like fashion. She was taller than both he and Volteer and looked between Terrador and the electricity guardian with deep, cyan-colored eyes.

“Everyone is here, Terrador.” She spoke in a soft, elegant tone- though clearly distressed. “We’re taking shelter…in there?” She asked incredulously, almost as if she was offended by the notion. She spoke in a rich, harmonious voice- almost matriarchal.

“Yes, Nix! Now get these dragons inside, the rest of the guard and Cyril are already inside!” Terrador ordered, to which both she and Volteer would bow their heads before ushering their fellow dragons inside!

“Keep moving, find shelter within!” Hunter called out.

“MOVE LIVELY, MOVE ORDERLY!” Terrador boomed out in his heavy baritone voice, startling some- but he ensured that they kept things peaceful as they all ventured into the underground ruins.

They were alerted when a golden glow came from the tunnel and Sparx buzzed his way out of the underground, the dragonfly looked tired.

“Sparx, how goes your efforts down below?” Terrador asked of the tiny being, who hovered near his face now.

“Better since Cyril came down and helped move things along. We’ve had a few fights down there he had to break up.” Sparx huffed, almost annoyed at the lack of patience some had. “…I just hope mom and dad are okay in the swamp.” He said grimly.

“I’m sure they are, Sparx. Hunter assured the cheetahs would send out falcons from Avalar to send warnings to the regions his own could not!” Terrador reassured the dragonfly, who looked up and gave him a slight smile.

“A dragonfly?!” Another feminine voice alerted them. A female dragon like Nix in size approached the two guardians, deep yellow scales with a white underbelly and wing membranes approaching. She had a set of fins mixed in with a set of curled ram-like horns. “How marvelous to see one so far from their swamp!” She grinned. There was a smaller electric dragoness by her side, they had yellow scales and a blueish underbelly like Volteer’s own, bright yellow eyes, horns like the larger dragoness’ own.

“Tempest, fascinating as he is, I must implore you to get inside with Eletara, love!” Volteer would usher the two dragonesses inside, following them into the ruins.

“Galacion! Keep up dear!” Nix called back, another dragoness going to her side. Much smaller in size. They had a set of horns and crest like Nix’s, but her colors looked much more like Cyril’s, that icy-blue painting her entire body, icy-blue eyes to her. The two ice dragonesses would vanish inside with the rest of their group from the dragon settlement.

Terrador could only think about the state of their numbers. With the numbers in the guard and those from the settlement, they had maybe a hundred dragons give or take.

A green dragon approached Terrador, earning his attention as they stepped up to him and offered a salute.

“Master Terrador, all dragons of the settlement accounted for!” The green dragon couldn’t be more than a few years older than Spyro and Cynder. He was as grown as Eletara and Galacion, though not as tall and rather more bulked in muscle. He had an earthy brown underbelly and set of wing membranes. His horns were almost bull-like as they hooked forward below his crown, a set of golden eyes to him.

“Well done, Granite, now get inside and see to your family.” Terrador bowed his head, earning another salute from Granite as he ran inside, an electricity dragon following after Granite.

“Wait up, Granite!” He called after them, darting through some of the crowd. His scales were a more faded yellow with a white underbelly, tall-reaching horns that pointed upward with a curl at the end.

“Run faster Storm and I won’t have to!” Granite called back as they both vanished into the ruins.

Terrador and Hunter sat in silence for a moment as they simply focused on the remaining moles now going into the ruins. But they were soon alerted from their moment as the very earth beneath them began to shudder and quake. From where they were, the two could spot the volcano in the Burned Lands surge forth with life once again, lave bursting forth from the mountain, and the belt of fire began to grow in intensity!

Terrador’s heart sank.

“EVERYONE INSIDE, NOW!” He roared out, the final moles scurrying forth and pushing their way into the ruins. Terrador gave Hunter a nod as the two entered the gate leading to the underground.

“Seal the gates and get everyone under cover!” Terrador ordered, the two dragons managing the doors would shift the controls around. The heavy stone doors would seal shut behind them once again, the ruins now darkened and only lit by braziers and torches, but that would be enough for now.

“It seems our world’s final stand resides in Spyro and Cynder.” Hunter said up to Terrador, who grunted, giving the cheetah a nod in agreement.

Spyro and Cynder swooped down hard as they fell into the pull of Malefor’s fortress, the entire structure breaking apart all around them even now! Shattered pieces of the entire fortress and the floating islands shot straight down as they neared the volcano and their path to the world’s core.

Malefor was taking up a position in his throne room once again as the dragonstone fluctuated even more vibrantly now, the sheer power it wielded was unbelievable. When used to magnify his own power, it made sense as to why Malefor needed it…to charge himself with enough strength to shatter the world’s core.

Spyro and Cynder couldn’t let this happen.

Just as they made their approach, they could see Malefor doing something with the stone around him! It seemed his lair had been forged with magically infused stone as it seemed to reach to the power of the dragonstone! The very shattered walls around him began to conform into a pair of monolithic structures on both sides of the elder purple dragon. They slowly began to glow with a thrumming and fading energy dark on repeat…almost like a heartbeat.

“That must be the final stage of his ritual, we need to stop him!” Cynder exclaimed. The two dragons dove for Malefor’s position furiously, their wings folding while shooting straight for their foe! But just as they were about to strike, a shield appeared around Malefor’s entire body and his ritual site, using his own convexity to form a barrier around him and the monoliths!

“Up, UP!” Spyro called out as they turned hard to avoid the barrier as it was erected! They narrowly flew past the edge of his convexity shield, circling back as they attempted to unleash a pair of elemental attacks on the shield! Spyro let out a spear of electricity and Cynder let out a blast of poison! Both attacks merely fizzled out and just bounced from Malefor’s barrier.

“No use, our elements just bounce!” Spyro growled, the two of them hovering and doing their best to keep up with the descending mass of the fortress and Malefor!

“Not just that…look!” Cynder pointed with a paw down to the long mass of stones leading to the throne and the monoliths where Malefor continued to charge the dragonstone. On the entire pathway, Malefor raised his open paw before dark shadows surrounded it, monstrous ape-like figures and apparitions took shape from the makeshift passage! “He’s got reinforcements, if we try and get past his shield we’ll just get swarmed!”

“Then we fight our way through them to Malefor! Come on!” Spyro growled as they both dove down to the first of the stones making up the bridge that had once led to the throne room, it was broken up into sections now, but it was still enough for them to cross! The creatures in their way were definitely designed with the apes in mind, the lumbering beasts were comprised entirely of shadow with sickly green glowing eyes.

Spyro and Cynder soared high over the bridge and dived down overhead, unleashing their powers to their full, devastating extent! Spyro breathed in heavily, the scales on his torso glinting orange as he unleashed a cone of fire upon the spectral enemies below them! The flames burned so hot that they nearly went blue in his maw! The flames tore through several of the shadowy ape figures and caused them to dissipate into black mist where they once stood!

Cynder, right behind Spyro, would inhale deeply as she seemed to conjure the very wind with her breath! And with a heavy release, the wind would unleash itself like a tornado onto the bridge! Every shadowy ape unfortunate enough to be caught in the turbine of wind was not only fanned with remnant flames from Spyro, but also got sent flying a good distance across the bridge, or even off the edge!

Malefor could only watch as his shadow minions were tossed around and destroyed like nothing! Spyro and Cynder dove down over the bridge once more, Spyro releasing a blast of chain-electricity that surged through a large crowd of the shadowy apes, Cynder following up the purple dragon with a barrage of siren wails that tore through the shadows at a terrifying pace as the wails spread apart into duplicating magical explosions!

“GAH! Useless…! Well…when you need something done…” Malefor muttered before he opened his maw, channeling energy from the dragonstone to unleash another volley of convexity projectiles! They screeched into the air- catching Spyro and Cynder by surprise as they split up into even more projectiles, dotting the sky with their purple-pink glow!

One of the projectiles struck Spyro before he could move aside, the sheer density of their numbers hard for even Cynder to properly avoid! But she quickly took hold of Spyro and carried them high above the mass of projectiles, narrowly dodging by some of them on the way!

Spyro groaned as he gripped the spot where the convexity projectile struck him. It hurt bad, but he couldn’t let it weigh him down. He’d recover and let Cynder finally release him, glancing down at the bridge.

“We have to make a real push…we’re running out of time!” Spyro glanced down, knowing they were likely approaching the planet’s core soon! “I have an idea, follow me!” He claimed, Cynder nodding as he led her higher, edging close to the edge of the ruins where they were still being pulled down by gravity.

Spyro would turn around and nose-dive straight for the bridge, Cynder hot on his tail.

“Cynder, I need a boost!” He called back to her. Cynder would surround herself in a shield of wind as she was pulled along by the snake chain. She charged for some time, but once the bridge came back into view, she’d unleash the blast!

“Brace yourself!” She exclaimed, the surge of wind increasing his speed nearly double! The purple dragon would unleash a blast of flames as they neared the bridge, engulfing himself in fire! With a thunderous blast of surging hot fire, the purple dragon landed in an inferno-like explosion, taking several shadow apes with him!

Through the flames leaped Cynder over Spyro’s back, lashing out with her claws as they were laced in poison! The black dragoness tore through a swath of of the beasts before Spyo came charging in, horn bashing one of the shadow apes into a fine mist! The two fought back-to-back in an almost artistic fashion with their powers and prowess!

Spyro would violently bash one of the shadowy minions with a strong paw before being struck by another on his right flank! Cynder was at his side in a second as she slashed the one who struck Spyro, slicing them in half seamlessly before they vanished back into mist like the others they had already struck down!

Cynder let out a volley of siren wails, letting them explode and cry out to cause disruptions in the numbers of the shadow apes, Spyro following up by rolling into a ball of earth energy as he crashed into them! He sprung up from the earth-flail before slamming his paws into the ground to create a wall of ice that shot through the shadowed minions of Malefor.

Cynder followed after Spyro as she pushed to keep the momentum going, releasing a gust of wind to disrupt the shadowy ape figures once again! She’d slash her way through with the acidic poison lining her claws and tail, a flurry of razor-like blades as the black dragoness forced herself through the crowd! Spyro was on her tail as he bashed his way through the crowd with his strong paws, tanking some of the attacks that struck him. He’d lean up and closed his jaw down on the head of one of the shadowy apes, throwing them from the bridge and out of his way!

The dragons were getting closer now, and time was starting to work against Malefor. He now had to worry about the two cutting through his minions and disrupting the ritual.

“KILL THEM!” Malefor roared out in fury, the shadow apes charging the two dragons as they fought hard through the crowd. Malefor, however, grinned as he sensed that the dragonstone neared full power. The monoliths on his sides thrummed with energy from the stone- now it was just a matter of time til they reached the center of the world.

But the two were getting too close for comfort. He’d not leave things to chance as he opened his maw, convexity building up as he prepared a devastating blast and set his sights on the two dragons!

Spyro was swarmed by a group of apes but put up a defensive stance with his earth power as he avoided being surrounded by the shadowy figures! But he couldn’t spot Malefor lining up his aim on the younger purple dragon as he was forced to fight with his head checking every angle the minions pressed him on!

But Cynder saw Malefor’s aim. She could see that he was targeting Spyro.

She was forced to fight back against the shadowed apes on her, baring her teeth as she leaped onto one of them and bit down on the minion’s head, twisting hard as it turned into mist beneath her. When she glanced back, she looked on in horror as Malefor unleased the blast right at Spyro, who was still actively engaged with the minions around him!

Cynder shut her eyes…time seemed to slow down for her. With a conjuring of shadows, she vanished into the stone beneath her!

Spyro looked up as he saw the beam of convexity surging right for him from Malefor! He desperately tried to move, only to be stuck in with more of the shadowy apes preventing escape! Time moved at a turtle’s pace as he heard the crackling sound of the convexity coming straight for him.

“SPYRO!” Cynder shouted as she emerged from the floor in his path, a shield of dark aether surrounding the black dragoness as she put herself between the beam and Spyro! The last thing Spyro saw was the blast make impact with her shield…followed by a flash of white light.

Spyro glanced around as he looked over the stone marking the grave made in remembrance of the eggs destroyed in the temple so long ago…how so many dragons had never gotten the chance to even live…while he and Cynder remained with the world.

To his flank was Ignitus, the wise fire dragon sitting on his haunches as he rested next to Spyro. This had been one of the last things Ignitus wished for Spyro to see during his time at the temple. A statue resided over the patch of ground, a simple mural-like slab of white stone, engraved with an inscription which depicted ‘Here we remember the young who never had a chance. May they never be forgotten and may the Ancestors ever watch over them in the next life’.

Spyro couldn’t help but let out a sad sigh, his amethyst eyes drooping to the ground, earning a questioning look from his mentor.

“What troubles you, young dragon?” Ignitus asked, his voice soft and patient. He knew this was a heavy topic for Spyro…this all did happen just the night before his birth in the swamp.

“It’s just…is this where everything ends for us, Ignitus? Graves and memories…and nothing more?” Spyro asked sadly, glancing up at Ignitus now. The fire guardian rested a paw on Spyro’s shoulder and held him close to his side.

“No…death, young dragon, is merely a new beginning. You see…when a dragon dies, they do not truly leave this world. Their spirit lives on, binding itself with nature…offering hope for the future. And to those who pass on…they say there’s a great flash of light, and then you see it. A land of plentiful bounty…rolling green hills…an open sky. A land where the hungry never starve and the lover never leaves. I do not think that is nothing, wouldn’t you agree?” Ignitus explained it all so calmly. Spyro pictured it all and could only nod his head slowly.

“It…doesn’t sound so bad.” Spyro muttered.

“No, it does not…but our time to go has not yet come…and I do believe it’s best we not chance fate, hm?” Ignitus asked with a smile as he glanced down at Spyro. “Come…let’s go back to the temple. You’ve seen enough for today, I think.”

Spyro’s eyes flew open, instantly letting out a sound of pained effort. He immediately remembered where they were and darted his gaze around!

“Cynder?!” He asked aloud, getting up now. He turned and spotted Malefor in the distance across the bridge, a confident look across his muzzle now as the dragonstone was nearly fully charged and vibrantly pulsed with power and the same energy which now fueled the monoliths on both sides of the elder purple dragon. Spyro also took quick note that all the shadowy apes were now gone and had vanished…or Malefor had destroyed them all in the blast.

Spyro spotted Cynder laying a few feet away from him now…he realized then he also didn’t feel the snake chain attaching them together. She lay limp before him, to which he’d immediately rush to her side!

“Cynder…Cynder!” Spyro gasped, nuzzling into Cynder some before she raised her gaze to meet his own.

It was clear she was in pain.

“We…did our best.” She said quietly, one of her paws weakly resting atop of one of Spyro’s own, squeezing it as tightly as she could manage.

Spyro looked between her and Malefor, who still glared at Spyro with that confident grin. He may as well have thought victory was already his!

But Spyro wasn’t done…he wouldn’t give up so easily. He couldn’t.

When Spyro tried to pull away to confront Malefor, Cynder held and squeezed his paw as tightly as she could, her emerald eyes looking up at him in horror and paim.

“Don’t leave me…!” Cynder pleaded quietly. It hurt to hear her speak as hoarsely as she did. Her entire body was burnt and bruised from the blast she had shielded him from.

It was frankly a miracle that she had survived it…a miracle which Spyro silently thanked the ancestors for.

Spyro gave her a sad look and leaned down to give her a final nuzzle, muzzle sliding next to her own before he regretfully pulled away from her grasp, the black dragoness reaching out after him before her paw weakly fell back to the ground.

Spyro glanced past them and noted that the ruined fortress was now hovering near the core of the world…which looked oddly like a huge, solid purple crystal. Spyro didn’t understand it really- but he wasn’t here to understand the core of their planet.

He took up a defensive posture ahead of Cynder, standing before Malefor as his scales seemed to glow with energy of his own. Malefor responded with a cocky laugh before opening his maw again to prepare another blast of convexity, threatening to destroy Spyro where he stood.

Cynder was forced to glance up and witness as Malefor prepared to annihilate Spyro once and for all. It killed her inside to imagine it happening. She wanted nothing more than to wake up and find this to be a terrible dream gone wrong.

But it wasn’t so.

Spyro manifested his own shield of convexity, his body tensing as he tapped into his inner reserves of power. It was now or never and he’d need the extra strength now more than ever. His endurance training with Terrador paid off when it mattered most.

Spyro tensed up as he witnessed Malefor unleash the beam directly towards him now! Spyro stared the beam down as he closed his eyes slowly.

He breathed in heavily before slowly exhaling, just hearing the beam coming straight for him almost scared him into fleeing at this point.

But Spyro was done running. He’d stand and fight, even if it cost him everything.

His life seemed to flash before his eyes in that instant. From the swamp, to the temple with Ignitus, Concurrent Skies where he had faced down Cynder and later freed her, convexity where he rescued her, the Well of Souls, Avalar, Warfang…everything he had done. The faces of those he loved…Ignitus, Terrador, Cyril, Volteer, his mother and father Flash and Nina, Sparx…Cynder…

He activated dragon time in that instant! The beam was inches away from striking his shield! When it grazed against his barrier, Spyro did the unthinkable!

He reached out.

The sensation was nothing he had experienced before. Searing pain rolled through his very being. While the shield absorbed the majority of it- his paw now felt the sheer magnitude of the beam Malefor had unleashed upon him!

But he felt something else within the beam…in that instant it almost felt alive and responded to his reach. It all came so quickly to Spyro that he barely had time to process it before he was forced to let dragon time falter. It reached deeply into Spyro’s thoughts and the very fabric of his being…beckoning him to reach it!

Spyro felt something almost click in the back of his mind…convexity was something else entirely…but it had traits of each element present within himself…and that meant it could be redirected. His own paw surged with power as it was enveloped by convexity! It latched onto the beam Malefor had sent his way and immediately seemed to redirect it from himself!

It couldn’t be true. Malefor looked on in horror as the beam was reflected into the crater above them where the world was beginning to shatter into pieces.

Cynder, despite her pain, looked on in pure awe! Spyro…the purple dragon of their time…had managed to do something so unthinkable with convexity. He should have been torn down to his base atoms! He should be little more than dust and a memory!

But still he remained…and Malefor looked none too happy about it.

Malefor charged up another beam, not taking as long to charge it up before unleashing it upon Spyro as he had before! But Spyro continued to amaze them as he reached out with the same paw, growling out in pain as he held the energy in place for but a moment before it was immediately redirected back in the general direction it was sent from!

The frustrating part for Malefor was that he couldn’t simply fly out to destroy Spyro himself. With the ritual nearly complete, he had to remain in range of the monoliths…he had to destroy Spyro here and now!

Malefor roared as he bellowed a vollety of the convexity projectiles, screeching and whistling right towards Spyro!

But Spyro was more than ready this time as he reached out to grasp one of the orbs! Another struck his shield as he groaned, trying his best to keep it held true as he did his best to face down Malefor alone!

Spyro would reel his paw back and sent the orb furiously back at Malefor- the projectile surged back in the older dragon’s direction and struck one of the monoliths! The stone structure toppled over as the orb burst in a small explosion of convexity!

“WHAT?!” Malefor roared aloud, angrily bellowing out another volley as he conjured up more power on his part! The blasts were more volatile and began exploding around Spyro as they landed! He was thrown to the side and landed hard near Cynder. Spyro painfully went back to his paws before he reached out to grasp one of the orbs as he had before!

It hurt- badly…but he didn’t let it go as he’d reel his tail back to swat the convexity projectile right back at Malefor once again! This time it struck the other of the two monoliths like a cannonball! The monolith crumbled over, and the dragonstone seemed to shake violently in Malefor’s hands!

“No! No, no, no!” Malefor roared, turning back to face Spyro after seeing the monolith falter into shambles. He growled maniacally before charging up another attack, this time drawing from the dragonstone itself.

Cynder cried out as she tried to climb to her paws, Spyro glanced back at her and gave her a swift nod. She knew the look all too well…he had an idea and would need her help. She bared her teeth hard as she slowly tried to walk to Spyro’s side, slowly stepping near him as she awaited what was to happen next.

“You will DIE!” Malefor cried out before he charged up another beam of convexity! It fizzled and grew violently volatile even before it had left his maw! But with a reverberating roar he’d unleash the blast right towards Spyro once more!

Spyro reached out and caught the beam, crying out in pain as he held it tightly with his paws, the energy going in all directions in a glorious spiral of purplish-pink energy! Spyro growled as he jumped up in the air, his body being engulfed as he summoned his own convexity! Cynder immediately recognized what he was doing!

He was making a comet dash!

With the power of Malefor’s beam infusing with his own, Spyro leaped into the air as he began to charge up his own attack now. Cynder’s body glowed softly with the dark purple energy of dark aether before she jumped to join Spyro in the air! Their paws interlocked and they joined their powers together in that instant. The pain was equally as harsh for her, feeling as though her very veins were alight on fire, the power of convexity searing deeply into her as it sapped what strength she had!

The two began to spin violently in an almost tornado-like fashion! They went soaring high into the air, shooting through the air like a pair of comets! A trail of purple energy followed the two of them as they shot around, gaining momentum! Malefor’s eyes widened in horror as they seemed to harness the power of his own blast of convexity!

“What is this power...what did he do?!” Malefor roared, baring his teeth as he used what strength he had left to power his shield!

The two swirled through the air like a purple tornado of arther energy! They went higher and higher before dipping right towards Malefor now! They surged forward and came thundering towards Malefor without any intention of slowing down!

Malefor braced himself as the duo of dragons shot straight for him and the shield! He poured all of his remaining strength into enforcing the shield, but as the two of them blasted into the barrier protecting Malefor! But in that instant, the sheer overwhelming aether and dark aether being poured into their convexity-infused comet-dash was so destructive and overpowering that they blasted right through his shield!

“NO! NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!” Malefor roared out in terror as the shield faltered.

White filled Malefor’s vision as the shield came down- a piercing pain in his chest…and then nothing. Silence befell the ancient purple dragon and he could only feel as his heart stopped beating in that instant.

Spyro and Cynder continued to spiral through the air before the power of the beam and their comet dash faded with their own strength. They quickly landed onto the site where Malefor had last been sitting, glancing around for the ancient purple dragon.

All that remained from where Malefor had been channeling power was ashes…and the lone dragonstone, still fluctuating with power.

“Spyro…you did it!” Cynder cried, almost feeling as though she’d collapse out of relief and exhaustion…a lifetime of stress and pain leaving her shoulders seemingly.

Her lifelong tormentor and enslaver…the one who had haunted her nightmares for so long. Gone.

“We both did it.” Spyro said as he tilted her to meet gazes with her. She was lightly sobbing, tears rolling down the ebony scales of her cheeks. He immediately leaned in to pull her into a tight hug, wings closing around her back, embracing the dragoness as closely as he could manage.

“I’m so sorry Spyro...I…what he said in the throne room before he tried to…make me hurt you. He was right, wasn’t he? I indirectly helped him return to the world…” She sobbed. Despite the tears streaming down her cheeks, she was overwhelmed by relief.

“Shhh…it’s alright. It’s over now…I’d never hold that against you.” He said softly, before pulling back from her.

The very world around them was coming apart, the crust of the inner crust coming apart and shattering in fire and ashes!

“Is…is this how it ends?” Cynder asked. “Even without destroying the core…this damage is irreparable.” Cynder said sadly. Spyro turned his gaze to the dragonstone in that instant…such power in one small object.

Perhaps that would be enough.

He remembered Ignitus’ words told to him three years ago, the memory of standing at the temple’s grave flashing in the back of his mind.

‘…binding itself with nature…providing hope for the future.’

Spyro reached down to take the dragonstone in his grasp. The power he felt from it was incredible and flooded into his own being!

This was their last chance…an idea came to his mind but it was something he didn’t even know would be possible…but it was now or never.

“Cynder…get out of here.” He said, gesturing to the hole from the volcano they had fallen through to reach the core. “I…I know what I have to do…what I have to try.”

“What…?” She asked with a shudder, fear filling her eyes now. “What are you talking about, Spyro?!”

“I think I can fix this before it gets worse…I think I’m meant to! But…I don’t want to put you at risk for my plan!” Spyro exclaimed, though regretting how it had sounded like he snapped at her. “I just…want you to be safe.”

“No…you can’t ask me to leave you. I won’t! I told you I’d be by your side…I won’t leave you now.” She states firmly. Spyro let out a heavy sigh before he relented. He welcomed her company for this moment but feared what would happen to her should his plan work.

He led them atop the purple crystal that marked the core of the world, placing them at the very center of the entire inner core chamber of the planet. The world was seemingly shattering apart from above and all around them!

Spyro took hold of the dragonstone in his hand…and with a strained sound of effort, he manifested dragon time in an external manner. Golden light surrounded Spyro as it seemed to expand from his very being and into the crust of the world and beyond! His wings and arms were fully extended, the one holding the dragonstone was kept close to his chest however.

Cynder looked on in awe as the golden light seemed to permeate through the very crust around them. The magma and ash tearing through the very planet seemed to halt in its progress before slowly starting to recede! What had shifted out of place and ripped apart at the seams was now starting to slowly shift back to where it had originally been located!

Unbeknownst to them, on the very surface of their world, the lands had been ripped asunder and shattered apart as the belt of fire had spread across a good portion of the surface of the planet! But the golden light spread through the seams of the crust and began to even surround the entirety of the planet as a whole!

What had been torn apart began to shift back into place where it had originally started, starting to seal together! From Tall Plains, the Valley of Avalar, Boyzitbig, Concurrent Skies, and back to Warfang…even the other continents across their world shifted together as they had once been, sealing back seamlessly…almost like they hadn’t been ripped apart like thin paper. The Burned Lands began to cool down and the belt of fire was forced to recede back and extinguished itself!

Spyro gasped aloud in pain as the crystal began to shatter in his grasp! It cracked and began to look as though it would splinter into thousands of tiny pieces! So much power channeled into the stone had caused it to grow unstable…but without it, Spyro wouldn’t be able to muster the necessary strength to keep the dragon time reparation of their world sustained.

“Hang in there Spyro! Keep pushing! I know you can do it!” Cynder cheered him on, a pleading look in her eyes as she watched the purple dragon be nearly engulfed in golden energy, barely able to see Spyro through it at this point!

Spyro could barely hear her at this point, but somewhere in the overwhelming sensation of using the stone, he could hear her words as if they were distant whispers. Deep down to his very core, it gave him what little strength he needed to keep his power sustained while drawing energy from the dragonstone.

“Keep going…you can do it…Ancestors please give him the strength he needs!” She flies up next to Spyro where he was sustained in the air, wings folding around Spyro softly as she hugged him tightly. He didn’t return the embrace, but she knew he had more important things to do, and it could be forgiven.

“I love you…” She whispered softly, holding herself tightly against his side as he used what strength the dragonstone had left.

With one last blast of golden light, Cynder closed her eyes as they were both engulfed by the glow, the only think they could both see being a blinding light which seemed to carry them both away.

“BRACE!” Terrador called out as the underground city continued to tremble and threaten to come down upon everyone! Rocks and parts of the walls had nearly collapsed down on top of those hiding in the ruins for safety several times.

But almost as quickly as it had felt like the world would crumble beneath their very paws…it suddenly stopped. A rare moment of silence ensured as they could only wonder what had happened.

“I…what?” Hunter asked softly, glancing around confusedly.

“Maybe it’s over?” Sparx asked as he darted to Terrador’s side.

“Who can say…but there’s only one way to know for sure. Cyril! Volteer! With me!” He called back into the ruins. Volteer and Cyril weren’t long before they joined the earth guardian, Hunter took up a position near the trio of dragons as well! Sparx guided them back to the door of warfang as they slowly re-opened it from their side.

What greeted them was shocking.

As the great stone doors slid back open, revealing perhaps the most welcome sight they could ever imagine.

The peaking light of the sunrise…dawn had come and the world saw the light of day yet again. Warfang itself looked…unscathed? Surely the city should have been ripped up ruins after what they heard occur above them in the underground city.

No…the city was as they remembered leaving it. There was still damage to buildings and walls from the golems…but the city was still intact!

“Fascinating…but what happened?!” Volteer questioned.

“I’m unsure…but I’ll certainly not complain.” Cyril added.

“Perhaps…Spyro succeeded after all.” Terrador let out a soft sigh, before glancing back to the dawn-lit sky. He and Hunter both spotted it at the same time as they glanced into the sky above: a new constellation had taken form in the sky.

The constellation of a dragon.

“I believe I’ll take that as a good omen…may they all return to us well.” Hunter said softly, earning a nod in agreement from the guardians.

Sparx meanwhile was uncharacteristically silent.

He should be excited…joyful…happy that they’d live to see another day!

But he could only feel worried…was Spyro alright? Was Cynder?

He didn’t have an answer,  but he looked up at the new constellation and seemed to intertwine his hands.

“Good job bro…just…come back.” Sparx said with a shuddering sigh.

The world had been saved by the purple dragon and fate had been turned. The world was together and pieced back together.

But this wasn’t the end of the legend, was it?

Surely not.

Chapter Text

Deep in the White Isle, a reclusive place in the Dragon Realm. Many had tried to find it and the one who resided within…but they never could, unless summoned by the Chronicler themself.

The Chronicler had taken many faces and voices over the long ages of the dragon race, a new voice and face for every age.

The Chronicler glanced up from one of his books at the massive hourglass in the center of his study. The sand had run out and into the bottom half.

His time had come.

He heard someone else approaching and glanced back at his book for a moment, studying the new constellation and the page it would forever mark in the memories of time itself.

“Be welcome friend, I have been expecting you.” He said calmly. “A new age is beginning…with each new age a worthy dragon of each Chronicler’s choice is selected to chronicle and categorize the triumphs and failures of their time. For so long I have carried out this sacred duty…but now, Ignitus. I pass this honor unto you.”

The other in the room was indeed Ignitus, glancing around the room in amazement. It had felt just like seconds since he was struck down by Malefor…but he thanked every higher power for the chance to bear witness to the lair of the Chronicler, something few dragons could ever dream of doing.

But something was nagging at the fire dragon’s mind…he had to ask before the Chronicler left him.

“And what of Spyro, Cynder…are they…?” Ignitus trailed off, giving him a hesitant look. The Chronicler seemed to furrow his brows at that.

“A fascinating question, Ignitus…you see-.” He’d wave a hand and close the book before him, a new one floating down and opening for them to read from. “Each time a dragon dies, their name is recorded in this book. A grim task this tome has, but an important one so that not one of our kind is ever forgotten.”

“I’ve done my best…but I can’t find a page for Spyro, nor Cynder…does that reassure you?” He asked with a gentle voice. Deep down Ignitus still worried…but he couldn’t shake the feeling that he knew better.

The ancestors wouldn’t let Spyro lose his young life before he had truly gotten to start living it yet. They would be alright. The Chronicler would turn to the hourglass, the final grains of sand flickering to the bottom end. The very life from his scales seemed to wane ever so slightly as they did.

“Please Ignitus, do the honors and turn the hourglass…begin the new age and take up your new charge. You will have much to do and much to read…but I fully expect you’ll be up to the task.” The Chronicler smiled, and so Ignitus would carry out his request. The fire dragon stepped over to the massive hourglass, tipping it over…it was actually quite light despite how massive it was.

Sand once again began to slowly pour into the now empty end…and the new age had begun.

“And one more thing, before I go.” The Chronicler said, a faint flow surrounding him. “Look below the hourglass…do you see the great clock?” He asked of Ignitus, who nodded his head slowly. It was a beautifully crafted marvel of creation, light beige stone circling around the hourglass with two ticking arms that represented a pair of dragons. “When it strikes three times…that means a major event is happening in the world. Do listen well for it…when it occurs, you must decide if your aid is needed or not…the Chronicler does not directly get involved with the world’s affairs unless absolutely necessary…good luck, and farewell.”

The light around the Chronicler would glow brighter as he was engulfed in it. A similar light surrounded Ignitus as his very scales shifted from their former, brilliant red to the soft grayish blue like the Chronicler’s own. He was now adorned in the robes and neck-held lantern which the Chronicler had been dressed in.

Silence followed as the Chronicler left…though, Ignitus could only guess that was now who he was. He was now The Chronicler…his time as Ignitus was done.

But even if it was from afar, he could accept that if it meant he could still watch over those he cared for. His wife and son who resided out in the world he hoped…Spyro and Cynder…the guardians. Despite that he was now gone from their lives, he could still watch over and support them in his own way.

That would be enough for him.

He stepped over to the book still open, leaning his red eyes down to study the pages slowly.

“Well young dragons, where might you be?” He asked softly.

‘I love you…’

Cynder’s eyes flew open, her head raising quickly as she glanced around at her surroundings. They were…in a cave? Or so she thought. She was surrounded by walls of stone and a cool breeze going over her scales.

Her memory quickly came back to her…the center of the world, Malefor’s defeat, Spyro’s efforts to repair the damage.

So, it was truly over? Malefor was gone…no longer would he plague their world with his delusions about a great cleansing to destroy the planet. She just slid her paws over the dirt-packed floor of the cave beneath her. She ached all over…but it could be worse. Though, she had to question how long she had been out cold for.

How did they get here? When she lost consciousness, they were still at the center of the world…pressed against Spyro as he used the dragonstone to repair the world and prevent it from shattering.

She had a sudden realization, eyes widening into saucers.

‘Spyro!’ She quickly remembered, glancing around…failing to spot her friend anywhere.

“Spyro?” She asked aloud, receiving no answer in response. “Spyro?!” She called again…nothing. Only the echo of the cave responded to her cries.

Fear suddenly gripped her heart with an icy grip, sinking into her stomach. She turned her long neck back and forth to see if she could spot him…but she saw nothing…and the silence was her answer in the dark of the cave.

‘No…no, no, no!’ She thought to herself, suddenly she was on all fours and sprinting through the cave, desperately searching for Spyro!

“Please…ancestors let him be okay…I don’t deserve much but please let him be safe!” She muttered under her breath, sprinting through the dark passage now, looking for any sign of Spyro as she went. She wanted nothing more than to just hold him close, to feel his warmth against her own. “We finished the fight…I can’t lose him now…!”

“Spyro!” She called out again, her voice echoing off the walls of the cave around her. “Where are you?!” Her vision grew better and better as she ran deeper into the cave…she could only guess that she was growing near the end of the cave and back into the outside world. She desperately wanted to see the open sky once more, but not before she had Spyro in reach again.

She’d turn a corner and spotted daylight, a way out! She made her way to the end of the cave, starting to breathe a little heavily as she hadn’t stopped running since she noticed Spyro wasn’t by her side. She made it to the mouth of the cave…they were in…Avalar? She recognized the rolling fields of the lush green valley, and could spot the arm of the Silver River that flowed into valley from the main section of the river itself.

But more importantly, she spotted a familiar purple dragon laying flat in the grass, unmoving as he was being hammered with rainfall.

“Spyro!” She gasped, running out into the heavy rain as she lifted the purple dragon onto her back ever so slightly, enough so she could pull him away and into the cave from which she had emerged.

She slowly got him out of the rain and slowly set him down now that he was no longer sitting out in the rain. He was still not moving, worry continuing to grip her as she turned him over ever so slightly to lean in against his chest, listening for a heartbeat and that he was breathing.

She let out a sigh of relief as she could soundly hear both. He lived. But she could tell he was in rough shape...bruises lining his brilliant purple scales. He was also freezing, body visibly shivering from being stuck out in the rain for however long they had been outside of the cave.

She nuzzled him softly, just relieved to have him nearby now before she felt her stomach grumble.

They hadn’t eaten anything since they were last in Warfang…she couldn’t deny that she felt as though she could eat anything in sight if it was suitable. But she also guessed that if she was feeling this way, Spyro would be even more hungry than she was once he finally woke up. She glanced back outside of the cave and to Spyro. She wanted to stay by him and ensure he remained safe, but she could barely keep a focused mind with how her stomach was demanding sustenance.

She leaned down and softly licked his cheek, giving him a regretful look, reluctantly pulling away and towards the mouth of the cavern.

“I’ll be back with food and kindling…if I can find any dry enough. I’ll be back soon.” She said quietly, turning out of the cave and giving the unconscious purple dragon one last look before rushing out into the rain!

Cynder pondered what she could catch for herself and Spyro to fill their bellies. The first thing that came to mind was fish from the river…but with the rain coming down so hard she ruled that one out. The water would be so disrupted that she’d never be able to spot them beneath the water easily enough without going for a deep swim herself…she wasn’t the strongest swimmer. Flying? Absolutely. But swimming…it was more like awkwardly flailing and keeping herself afloat more than anything. Spyro was the stronger swimmer of the two for sure.

But an idea did cross her mind that could work out. Deer still needed to eat, even during the rain. There would no doubt be some roaming the valley…and with the rain coming down, their scent and hearing would be muddled. She avoided flying for now, her own vision a bit hindered by the deluge of rain upon her. She also felt too exhausted to reliably fly as she was used to.

Soon enough though, she spotted a good clearing where the rain wasn’t hammering as heavily and would climb her way into a tree overlooking the spot. She’d lie in wait for the precise moment to strike!

Close to an hour passed before a deer came stepping into the clearing, a large buck with moderately tall-reaching horns. The buck seemed to slowly tread into the clearing, sniffing around before walking into the open. The buck craned their long neck up to nibble on some leaves from a tree, primarily the browse of the leaves.

The deer heard the sound of a twig snapping, their head darting in the direction the sound came from! Those blank eyes found nothing where the sound came from, but it stamped its front hooves down into the dirt warningly! Slowly, it would reluctantly return to eating the leaves from the short tree they had chosen to dine on.

Another twig snapped and the deer lowered its head before stamping another hoof into the dirt! It was about to bolt away from the clearing, fearing a predator was nearby.

But nothing happened again. The deer buck would slowly calm back down and turn its head to continue eating the leaves.

In that instant, the last thing the deer saw was a black mass leaping down on it from above! The deer heaved as it struggled to break away, but a fanged set of teeth bit down into the neck and twisted hard! The sound of the buck’s neck snapping resounded, and the graceful beast fell silent a few long moments after.

Cynder let out a sigh of relief, she didn’t like seeing animals struggle, but survival and necessity outweighed her own sensitivities. She’d have to skin the deer herself…but that was easy enough with her claws. For now, she was content to slowly carry it back to the cave and get back to Spyro. She still had kindling to gather.

Cynder had gotten the deer back to the cave but was now faced with a new challenge: she couldn’t find dry wood for kindling. She was freezing and they needed dry wood for her fear fire to bear fruit. It wasn’t as strong as actual fire and would struggle without dry wood.

She slowly walked into another grotto in the valley, her gaze seeking wood desperately all around. She had found a few viable pieces but quickly tossed them away as it was clear they were far too waterlogged by the rain to be used.

“We managed to save the world…and yet I struggle to find good firewood.” She huffed, moving on to another spot in the woods she was actively sifting through for kindling.

Her muscles went stiff when she found herself faced with the business end of a spear! Where had that come from? She went low as another trio of spears emerged from the woods.

“HALT!” A feminine voice spoke from the brush, revealing a group of cheetahs!

“I come in peace! I’m not your enemy!” Cynder pleaded, one of the cheetahs lowered their spear and gestured for the others to do so.

“Weapons down, ladies, she’s no grublin.” She had a low, raspy tone from age. She had yellow fur with some silvery gray spots mixed in. The other three were orange, blue, and red. “In fact…if I’m not mistaken, this is one of the two dragons we have to thank for our world’s continued existence!”

“Oh…oh my lady…apologies!” The red cheetah pleaded, driving the spear into the ground as she fell to a knee before Cynder. Cynder didn’t care for being praised via kneeling, but she did appreciate the praise all the same, and it was also nice to not be treated with resentment for her past.

“Oh…no! You don’t need to apologize…I was making a bit of a commotion, I can’t blame you for being cautious.” Cynder smiled.

“What brings you to Avalar? Shouldn’t you be in Warfang? I believe the dragons would like to know their heroes are alive.” The blue cheetah asked curiously, setting her spear aside.

“…Honestly, I wish I had an answer. I woke up and found myself and Spyro here. He’s still unconscious and I’m trying to get him warm and ensure we can stay fed for as long as we need to recover. We’re…in rough shape.” Cynder said sheepishly.

“Is there anything we can do to help?!” The orange cheetah asked excitedly, earning grin from Cynder.

“I don’t suppose…the cheetahs have any dry firewood? Whatever I find out here is quickly soaked by the rain before I can get it back to the cave where Spyro is…I’m not sure how to get it back to the cave intact and usable.” Cynder said, almost sounding frustrated.

“We can do better than that.” The yellow cheetah said with a smile. “But before we help you…I have to ask, my husband, Chief Prowlus- is he well? He took our warriors to Warfang and we haven’t had any word from the dragon city since they left.

Cynder looked at her quizzically.

“Prowlus likes anyone enough to marry?” Cynder asked aloud, regretting her words a moment later. But the cheetah just laughed a little in response.

“He’s not so bad once you get to know him…besides, he came to the aid of the dragons in the end, didn’t he?” She said with a smile. Cynder couldn’t deny the truth to her words, when the situation in Warfang grew desperate, the cheetahs had arrived to aid the city when they needed it most.

“I guess you’re right…what’s your name?” She asked.

“I am Maiev, wife of the chief and our chief diplomat in times of peace.” Maiev explained.

“Regarding Prowlus…he was alive when we left for the Burned Lands to confront…the Dark Master.” Cynder avoided saying his name. It was hard to believe he was gone, to be honest.

“Well, I can only hope he wasn’t too stubborn to seek cover in the city then.” Maiev gave her a slight smile. “Now, wait right here. I’ll bring you something from the village, we’re not far.” She smiled. Cynder just nodded her head slowly before sitting underneath one of the trees, sitting down on her haunches as the cheetahs vanished back into the woods from where they had come from.

Cynder waited there for several long minutes. She was anxious to get back to Spyro and to fill her belly. But she knew she had to be patient, with the cheetahs she could supply herself and Spyro properly. The cheetahs were accustomed to living in the valley and could provide her with the means for her to keep herself and Spyro safe…and more importantly, alive.

She heard the brush rustle again, her muscles stiffening ever so slightly as she prepared in case it wasn’t the cheetahs…but to her relief, Maev and the orange cheetah emerged from the forest. The orange cheetah held some sort of wrapping in hand.

“This will help you miss Cynder.” Maiev said with a smile as the other cheetah handed it over.

“That’s one of our water resistant tarps, made from hides and canvas by our crafters. It will keep the contents wrapped up inside dry…inside it however is enough wood to start a fire, a water pot for you to drink from, and pelt blankets. Make good use of them.” She bowed her head. Cynder could only look at the bundle in shock, turning her eyes gratefully to the cheetahs.

“I…thank you! This…this is perfect!” Cynder said happily as she prepared to lift off with her wings, no longer caring about the rain. “I promise to return the tarp and blankets once we’re able to leave the valley on our own!” Cynder promised the cheetah.

“Do be careful, dear! Their master may be gone, but the grublins yet linger.” Maiev warned Cynder before bowing her head. The two cheetahs ran back into the brush and made their way back to the village. Cynder offered them a final smile before she took off back towards the cave where Spyro was!

Spyro slowly opened his eyes, his eyes trying to focus as they took in light for the first time in what felt like ages.

He immediately groaned aloud in pain as his entire body screamed at him. Every inch of his being ached, his efforts to repair the world had definitely taken a toll.

Even now, he felt as though he’d collapse again due to the exhaustion…but the memories suddenly came flooding back…and the fact that Cynder wasn’t at his side.

His heart began to beat harder, groaning as he lifted his neck to glance around for her. He found himself at the mouth of a cave that daylight crept through…though it was more of a dull white light rather than the vibrant mix of colors he preferred from seeing an open sky…though it could be forgiven as there was a heavy downpour of rain going on outside the cave.

It just now occurred to him that he was freezing! In his position on the ground, he felt as though he was stuck in Dante’s Freezer again. He shivered and slowly tried to muster a fire within himself to ease the chill. But all he released was a sparkling puff of smoke.

That was to be expected…whatever reserves he had were drained after the events in the core of the world. He was surprised that he could lift his head, let alone muster one of his elements.

The purple dragon glanced around, looking for Cynder…but still finding himself alone and in silence, the deluge of rain being all that gave him company.

“Cynder?” He called out, his voice hoarse, as if he could not even really manage to even speak without feeling strained. He received no response, the black dragoness nowhere to be seen. He felt his eyes growing heavier once again, threatening to collapse then and there!

“Cynder?!” He called out again, his voice croaking some as he spoke louder. His head fell to the ground again and his eyes felt so heavy…like the weight of the world pulling them down.

“Spyro?” He heard a voice call out. He looked up as he spotted Cynder fly in through the mouth of the cave, his eyes drooping closer to being shut as she set something down nearby. The last thing Spyro saw before slipping back into unconsciousness was Cynder nuzzling into him, her emerald eyes meeting his before he drifted off.

Spyro’s eyes opened once again as his nose picked up the scent of something…pleasant. His stomach growled almost painfully before he opened his eyes once again. The light outside the cave had drifted away into a blueish darkness. Night had fallen…or perhaps he had been out even longer.

He felt something draped over his back…and instead of cool dirt beneath his belly, he felt something soft…warm. His gaze refocused as his sight fell upon a lit bundle of wood that was ablaze with a dark, blackish red flame. It didn’t provide much heat nor light, but it was a vast improvement to how cold he had been when he last regained consciousness.

He felt less in pain at least…but he felt so weak now. Like he had recovered some and now his body’s necessities had caught up with him.

Cynder was alerted as she heard Spyro lightly inhaling before mumbling. The dragoness’ eyes widened before she went to his side in an instant. He found himself bundled up in…pelts? Fur pelts…but they did feel cozy around him as he just lay there.

“Spyro…” She said softly, leaning down to press her nuzzle into his. To her utter glee, he returned the showing of affection as he slid his muzzle against her own. He let out a heavy exhale before slowly rising, though his teeth were bared in pain as he attempted to do so a bit too quickly.

“S-slowly! Slowly…” She slowed him down with a pair of paws on his shoulders. “…if I had to guess you’re still going to be hurting…and you’ve been out cold for a while. Just take it easy.” She said softly, letting him rise to his haunches slowly.

“Where…are we?” He looked around the cave slowly, before glancing back at the dragoness and then the fire she had clearly lit herself.

“We’re in Avalar…I don’t know why, but we ended up here. I…was deeper in the cave. You on the other paw were out in the rain this morning when I found you.” She explained. “As for how long it’s been…if I had to guess…two days…both of which you’ve been asleep for.” She offered him a weak smile.

“Two whole days?” He asked.

“Nearly…the sun just went down.” She reached over to the flames and retrieved a few cuts of darkened meat, setting them before Spyro gently. He eyed it curiously, mouth watering some before he looked back at her.

“Where…did you get this?” He asked, the smell of the meat piercing him to the very core as his stomach wailed for the sustenance.

“I went hunting…it was a deer. I had to cook it with fear fire…which doesn’t cook it as well as real fire but…I did my best.” She rubbed one of her wing membranes with a paw. “I’ve never really had to use it to cook before…and I had to ensure the meat didn’t go bad.” She muttered.

“The fact that you did this speaks volumes…I’m sorry I was asleep for so long…I’m sure I had you worried.” Spyro said sheepishly, earning a nod from Cynder as he dug in. He bit down onto the first cut of meat and tore into it, inhaling it as if it was the last meal he’d ever receive. It wasn’t as good as how real fire would cook meat, but in that moment…it was heavenly.

She’d retrieve a decently sized pot-like object, setting it near Spyro to reveal water! He stopped eating in that instant as he dove forward, taking in several heavy gulps of water. It soothed and alleviated his throat which had felt so strained the previous day.

“You did have me worried…more so when I couldn’t find you after I woke up.” She explained, sitting down near him on her haunches. “You were nowhere to be seen and I…I panicked. When I finally found you out in the rain I did everything I could to keep you comfortable. I went and caught a deer…the cheetahs actually found and helped me out. The rain was so bad that I had to ask them for dry wood…which they provided with some blankets and the pot you’re drinking from. I got us food, water…and I’ve kept us both warm.” She fumbled.

Spyro finally pulled back from his drink of water, glancing back at Cynder finally…their eyes met.

“You did wonderfully Cynder…I’m sorry I scared you. But…we did it!” He said cheerfully. “We beat him…like I knew we would!” The memory came back to him. “You…you broke free of him in the end…and I couldn’t be more proud of you.” He said with a broad smile.

Cynder blushed, eyes darting to the floor of the cave. An awkward silence ensued after he spoke, their eyes slowly meeting once again.

They had something important to discuss. Cynder was nearly sick to her stomach as she instantly knew he was about to bring it up. She feared that he would tell her that he wasn’t interested…that he merely wanted them to remain friends and that would be that.

“Cynder…what you said in Malefor’s throne room…and again at the center of the planet. You meant it…didn’t you?” He asked with an anxious shudder.

Cynder’s expression showed a mix of fear, anxiety…but also confidence.

“Every word.” She confirmed, staring him right in the eyes as she admitted it. But she averted her gaze to the ground after saying it. “…I understand if you don’t feel the same way, Spyro…but…I can’t keep hiding this from you. Maybe I said it at a desperate moment, but if I had one regret before what could have been the end…it would be not telling you the truth.” Cynder shut her eyes, as if too afraid to see how he would react now that they didn’t have the end of the world to worry about.

A long silence followed and Cynder just remained there with her eyes slammed shut. She his warmth grow closer…oh ancestors what was he going to say?

To her astonishment, he said nothing.  It was rather what he did that caught her completely off-guard.

He leaned in and kissed her. His muzzle connected with her own and their lips connected together. They both went stiff as a board as the two dragons embraced in the soft kiss. Cynder’s eyes went wide, but she didn’t dare pull away…Spyro was kissing her! Sparks of what felt like electricity flowed between the two of them as they kissed, what felt like years of emotional buildup between the two dragons being released in that instant…and they couldn’t be happier.

His paws intertwined with her own as they relaxed into the embrace ever so slightly. Her wings would fold forward, allowing for his to do the same around her back and hold her tight in his embrace. She swooned a bit, letting out an almost relieved whimper escape into their embrace as he held her close.

When Spyro pulled away, their foreheads pressed together as they both lightly panted, a bit kiss-drunk and breathless from the moment shared.

“Words can’t begin to describe how badly I wanted to tell you.” Spyro said softly, his amethyst eyes locked with her emerald ones. “Ever since we started spending time together in the temple…I wanted to be brave enough to tell you. For months since I pulled you from convexity I was faced with so many new and strange feelings for you. I was just…afraid. Afraid that you’d never feel the same way…I never told you back then cause it was too soon. I cared too much to drop that on you when you were still coming to terms with being free.” He explained, his voice quiet but genuine.

“Well…you’d be right…at the time I was going through a lot. I still wasn’t ready to come out of my shell…but as I transitioned into finally being comfortable around you and the others…I also felt a lot of foreign and unexplainable feelings. Deep down…the more and more time I spent around you, the less I wanted to be away…being around you, it had me feeling as though I could start coming out of my shell. When you spent nights beside me so I could sleep better…I felt as though I was finally where I could belong. Despite what I told you the night I left, it killed me inside to say it…I merely said it because I didn’t want you to follow me…for your safety.” She explained in depth how she felt.

“I decided three years ago that I loved you…but it took a war and the end of the world for me to realize it.” Spyro said with a sheepish smile.

Cynder leaned her head beneath Spyro’s chin, careful to avoid poking him with her horns as she rested against his chest. Her snout grazed his as she made herself comfy against him. He could only give off a goofy grin as she nuzzled him under his chin.

“Well…I have to ask now…” Cynder purred. “Are you still afraid?” She asked, giddy with just how overjoyed she was to be embracing the purple dragon, partaking wholly in his warmth as it radiated into her own scales.

“No…” Spyro said firmly, holding her close. “No, I’m not afraid. Not anymore.” He admitted, simply loving the sensation of having her pressed up against his chest, his head resting atop hers as she nuzzled into his chin.

“Good…neither am I.” She said softly, humming a soft tune as they simply embraced each other.

The night continued on…but so long as they had each other, they cared little. The little light that remained near them was the fire that continued to crackle and sustained itself nearby.

“You know…we’ll need to go back to Warfang once I regain my strength…honestly just doing this still hurts some…but for you it’s worth it.” Spyro said with a hesitant voice. “The guardians…Sparx…they need to know we’re okay.”

Cynder let out a soft, shuddering sigh.

“You’re right…but…could we just…stay here? In the valley…for a couple more days?” She asked quietly. “When we go back…everything will change. But for the first time in my entire life…I just want to spend time together before we go back.”

Spyro felt that he should have turned it down, but hearing her voice and the way she spoke…he could hardly refuse.

“Alright…we’ll stay in the valley for a few more days.” Spyro said softly, hugging her close.

“And promise me something Spyro?” She asked, earning a light ‘hmm?’ from him.

“Promise me that not everything will change…? A lot will be expected of us…but I just don’t want it to come between us.” Cynder glanced up at him now, no longer nuzzled into his chin. Spyro pondered her words for a few long moments, before thinking up the right words.

“We’ve been through too much for something to split us up so easily. No matter what’s thrown at us…we’ll face it, together.” He assured her, his wings squeezing her close.  She was content with those words for now.

The future held much uncertainty, but they’d face it together.

Sparx looked over the wall of Warfang leading the land across the region surrounding the dragon city. There was still much to be done following the reparation of the world, but one question still bounced around in Sparx’s head…one that he couldn’t simply shake.

“Come on Spyro…where are you, brother?” Sparx asked a bit sadly, shoulders slumped as he hoped that at any moment, he’d spot his adoptive brother and Cynder flying towards the city and making their grand return.

He heard the flapping of heavy wings, glancing up to see none other than Terrador setting down onto the wall next to the dragonfly.

“Sparx, what troubles you? It’s half past midnight…you need rest.” Terrador sat down on his haunches next to Sparx, who hovered steadily next to the earth guardian.

“I…I don’t know Terrador. I just feel like he should be back. Like when we knew the world was saved, I half expected to just turn around and see him standing there with his chest all puffed out and proud for beating the big bad guy.” Sparx explained- to which Terrador could only nod in understanding with the dragonfly.

“I understand, Sparx.” Terrador glanced at the dragonfly. “We feel at our lowest when those we hold closest are no longer by our side. We come to rely upon them for guidance or a sense of understanding where we belong. I too feel a bit…distraught. With Ignitus missing, the city looks to me for leadership as the temporary commander of the guardians and dragon forces…and yet I can already tell that I cannot match up to his leadership.” Terrador huffed, glancing down at the wall.

“Are you kidding me, green stuff?” Sparx asked incredulously. “When the city was about to tear itself apart even before the world tried to, you basically kicked the entire place back into shape and had them moving into the ruins so neatly that I think it would scare some people. Big Red chose you because he knew you could pull that off while he was gone…” Sparx said, and for once he felt sincere with the earth guardian.

Terrador was surprised by Sparx’s words but bowed his head in response to the dragonfly.

“Your words…are more meaningful than you believe, Sparx. I…thank you.” The earth guardian thanked him. “But like you, I do hope they return. Leadership in every avenue like Ignitus was not my calling.”

“I hope they’re all alright…I give him a lot of flak, but I don’t know what I’d do if something actually happened to Spyro. But…if they do come back, don’t tell him I said that, okay?” Sparx asked, giving Terrador a questioning look.

Terrador broadly smiled but placed a paw over his wide chest.

“You have my word, Sparx.” Terrador said firmly, nodding his head before standing back from his haunches, patting the dragonfly with a strong paw. “Now…come along, it’s late and you could use some rest.”

Sparx gave one last glance up into the nighttime sky, but would surrender, and followed after Terrador as the two returned to the guardian chambers.

Atop a tower in an unfamiliar region shadowed in darkness stood a dragon shrouded in dark magic, bright blue tattoos lining their entire body…a pair of icy-blue eyes staring over the dragon realm far off across the water from their home. The island the tower resided upon, like the structure itself, was shrouded in darkness with shadowy clouds looming high above.

“So, the great cleansing has failed…Malefor has failed.” They spoke to no one in particular, a deep and raspy voice. “So be it…” They gave a look into the sky, studying the new constellation depicting a dragon now residing high in the sky and now intertwined in the stars.

He’d turn away to vanish back into the massive tower from whence he had come. The shapes of other dark creatures came into view as he marched towards the tower, a massive pair of doors opening to grant him access.

“I will bury this world in darkness as it should be…our backup plan should be more than sufficient…not even the new purple dragon will be able to stop us when our preparations come to fruition.” They growled, rage seeming to radiate from their dark scales.

He’d give one last look at the open expanse of water, clutching one of his paws tightly.

“Tremble in fear for my arrival, dragons…for I, Adimere, am coming to bring you to your knees.” He growled, baring teeth, before vanishing into the dark tower.

Chapter Text

Daylight slowly crept into the cave, slowly sneaking forward ever so slightly until it began to blanket over a pair of dragons resting side by side. The sun warmly began to radiate onto Spyro and Cynder as they held each other close. Cynder and Spyro laid side by side against each other, one of his wings draped over her back as they cuddled together beneath one of the fur blankets she had been given by the cheetahs two days prior.

They hadn’t gotten to spend much time in the valley for the past three days between the awful weather and Spyro’s strength still slowly returning to him. He could finally manage to conjure flames once again, and soon his other powers began to return to him. Spyro had managed to muster sparks of electricity, a light spray of frost, and even shifting the stone around him. Cynder was thankful for him being able to breathe fire again as it meant she no longer needed to cook the game they’d catch with her fear fire.

Cynder’s own strength returned far sooner than the purple dragon’s, mostly on account of her strength not being as heavily expended as his own following his mending of the world. Still, her fear fire was most helpful on account of his own flames not coming back to him for an entire day. Her shadows came back to her as well, which helped her while out hunting for herself and Spyro. Her other fear powers and poison however…she’d wait to see. She felt no need to use either of those abilities to their full extent for the time being.

Spyro’s amethyst eyes slowly opened as he was able to bear witness to the sunrise. He was half tempted to wake Cynder up to watch it with him…but he couldn’t bring himself to do so when he saw just how peaceful she looked sleeping against his side. He had always had a soft spot for watching sunrises, and that stemmed back to his time in the swamp when Sparx would wake him up at the crack of dawn to make him watch it with their parents.

For a time, he loathed mornings…but overtime he grew to love it even more than even his parents did. Sparx, however, was always equally happy to watch the sun rise beside his adoptive dragon brother.

Spyro made a mental note to try and get Cynder to watch a sunrise with him when they returned to Warfang…but for now he’d let her sleep. He studied her for some time, the way the sun reflected off of her ebony scales…it was almost hypnotizing to the purple dragon as he watched it bounce wonderfully off of her.

He had always thought she was beautiful beyond words. To have her pressed against his side, embracing him as she slept? Simple words couldn’t begin to describe the joy it filled him with.

But then his thoughts went back to Sparx.

He desperately missed his dragonfly brother, even his quips about Spyro’s weight…or any quips he made really. Spyro hated the feeling that Sparx was just waiting in the dragon city for him to return…and days after Malefor’s defeat, still having no sign of his return.

His thoughts drifted elsewhere regarding Sparx.

Now that the war was over, how long would Sparx remain by his side? Spyro’s duties would likely demand he make his permanent home in Warfang…but such a vast city wasn’t any place for Sparx to remain in for a prolonged period of time.

It made a shudder of fear roll down Spyro’s spine, the thought of not having Sparx nearby every day. But, his thoughts were quickly interrupted when he heard Cynder let out a little cough and a snort before her eyes began to slowly open. She didn’t register the time of day at first, but just let out a cute whine as she tucked her head back towards Spyro and under his wing.

He didn’t know how long he had been so deep in thought, but it must have been long enough for the sun to rise higher into the sky. He was now able to look outside of the cave and make out the lush green valley beyond the mouth. They hadn’t gotten to see the valley much due to the rain which had poured into the region for the past three days.

Returning his thoughts to Cynder, he couldn’t help but let out a little laugh, leaning over to softly nuzzle the side of her head as she refused to pry it away from his torso.

“Cynder…” He tried, smiling as she let out a frustrated sigh.

“No…” She said, her voice muffled. He chortled out another laugh before lifting her wing from her slowly. The black dragoness responded by reaching a paw up to pull his wing back down over her with a whine. He attempted to pull his wing back but found she wouldn’t allow it to budge, making his smile only grow wider.

“Cynder…come on, we’re heading back to Warfang today…you want to make the most of the day, don’t you?” He asked softly, earning another whine from her as she refused to budge.

“Nooooo!” She moaned, her head tilting against his chest some, her voice still muffled. “Make the most of the day tomorrow…return to civilization in ten years.” She groaned. “Let me sleep a little longer…”

He didn’t say anything for a moment, but let her release her grip when she believed he had relented…only for her to let out a noise of annoyance as he pulled his wing back upon her loosening her paw.

“Spyroooo…” Cynder whined, now being given an eyeful of sunlight. She seemed to give up and let out a frustrated sigh.

“Fine…fine! I’m up.” She grouched, rising from their makeshift bed of pelts and such which the cheetahs had given them. “Stupid responsibilities…” She muttered.

Deep down he couldn’t blame her, he wanted nothing more than to just rest by her side a little longer. But they had made an agreement the previous day to not waste the day away if the rain came to an end. And today…the rain had indeed come to an end.

“Besides…we have to return the cheetahs their blankets and water vase.” He added, earning an eyeroll.

“I know…we have to be responsible.” She pouted, earning a laugh from him as he followed her to the mouth of the cave. She seemed to hesitate at the notion of stepping out into the sunlight, her final protest towards being awake and having to get ready for the day.

Spyro slid up alongside her and reached down with a paw, a single claw of his tilting her head up to face him, leaning down as their lips met again in a soft, gentle kiss. She sighed into the embrace, one of her paws coming up to stroke his cheek. Cynder pressed her snout into his a bit more firmly, her long tongue flicking against his lips before they both instantly pulled away from each other, their cheeks on fire now as they averted their gazes!

“Okay…you win, let’s go see what the valley has in store for us today...but first, we take what we barrowed from the cheetahs back to them.” Cynder relented, though she finally sounded as though she was unbothered by it. The kiss seemed to do wonders for her early morning grumpiness.

“I’ll handle making sure the firewood is properly put out…and I’ll discard of the deer bones. You get the blankets and vase wrapped back in the tarp and meet back here in a few minutes?” He asked, earning a nod from her as she leaned in to nuzzle underneath his chin with a soft coo.

“Deal…” She said softly, before leaning up to slowly lick his cheek once before turning back into the cave, giving him a kind smile over her shoulder before continuing back in.

He felt his heart flutter some as the black dragoness walked away, turning his attention to their makeshift fireplace which needed to be buried and broken up finally.

The two dragons slowly touched down near the village at the gate. They half expected the guards to draw spears and treat them with minor hostility. They could tell from the sounds of the village that the warriors had returned…or, most of them.

What greeted them instead warmed both of their hearts.

A triumphant cry of cheers and applause rang out from the cheetah village. The warriors at the gate and manning the scout towers let out gratuitous cries as they clapped for the pair of dragons rapidly approaching. A small entourage walked from the gate to meet them, Cynder recognized Maiev…but surprisingly, they also spotted Prowlus and Meadow with her.

Meadow’s leg was in a splint and was actively using his walking stick as a makeshift cane to support himself with. Once Spyro and Cynder touched down, he was the first to greet them, a warm smile crossing his feline features.

“Spyro, Cynder! It gladdens my heart to see you both well…I’d get down on my knee to greet you, but it’s best I do so while standing.” Meadow said with a cheerful tone, bowing his head to them both.

“Meadow! It’s good to see you’re standing on your own again.” Spyro said with an affirming nod.

“I’m sure it was hard for you to stay behind while the others left to help in Warfang.” Cynder offered a sympathetic glance up at the cheetah, who rubbed the back of his neck.

“More than you can imagine young dragons…even as one of the older warriors, I wanted nothing more than to go off and join my fellow warriors to help the dragons. I must thank you again for saving my life from the grublins though…and you’ll find me more than willing to offer my spear in the future when called upon.” Meadow placed his free hand on his chest with a smile.

“I’m sure Prowlus and Hunter wanted you by their sides in Warfang…speaking of which, where is Hunter?” Spyro asked, noting the orange cheetah hadn’t come to greet them at the gate.

“He’s still in Warfang, for reasons you’ll likely discover once you arrive.” Prowlus explained. “As for myself, most of our warriors returned last night…a few are with Hunter in the dragon city however.” He explained. “My wife tells me that she offered you provisions…of course, our people are glad to offer their aid after you risked yourselves to save Meadow.”

“Ohhhh that must have hurt to say.” Maiev said cheekily to her husband, earning a groan and eyeroll.

“While I don’t like admitting we needed help…I will still acknowledge that it was indeed dragons that offered their aid to us willingly in a time of need for our people…on top of saving Meadow, they prevented several of our homes from burning down and saved one of our mothers and her child. I may not share Hunter’s faith in dragons…I have been wrong about them twice now.” Prowlus said gruffly. “Perhaps one day they’ll even earn my full respect…as you two have.”

Spyro and Cynder were floored by his words, earning toothy grins from the pair. Prowlus regretted his words for a moment as he figured he’d never hear the end of it later.

“Speaking of your provisions, we brought back the blankets, vase and tarp.” Cynder said happily, hoisting the heavy bundle of objects before the group of cheetahs. One of the guards would reach down to carry it back into the village.

“Thank you Cynder…we were glad to offer you the resources.” Maiev smiled.

“Would you both care to join us for our meal? The hunters returned with some deer…I presume you’re headed back to the city today, I’m sure full bellies would help you on the flight back.” Meadow said, offering the chance to them both. Prowlus looked as though he may have been against the idea, but Maiev beat him to it.

“We’d be glad to have them join us, wouldn’t we Prowlus?” She asked, giving him a knowing stare…to which the cheetah would relent, slowly dipping his head to nod slowly.

“Yes…” Prowlus relented. “…come along, it should be done cooking by now.” Spyro and Cynder gave each other knowing looks before they followed the cheetahs into the village. The smell of cooked deer reached their noses, and they couldn’t help but feel their stomachs grumble for a lack of sustenance.

“We graciously accept the offer.” Spyro said with a smile as they entered. They received more applause from the cheetahs further into the village, coming to a large gathering of cheetahs in the center. They could see tables with deer meat prepared and already cooked. It was rather inspiring to the two dragons, seeing how the cheetahs shared everything with each other.

Prowlus would help Meadow sit down on one of the commune mats before walking to join Maiev on their own mat. Meadow patted the empty space next to himself, which Spyro and Cynder accepted, sitting down beside the older cheetah.

Some of their cooks finished seasoning the meat before cutting the meat up equally, carrying it all out on small porcelain platters. They weren’t very large but served the purpose for a light lunch before dinner came later.

The two dragons waited patiently for platters to be brought before them, simply enjoying in the delightful company of the cheetahs…as well as each other’s as they pressed softly against one another. Meadow smiled, only able to admire it. Maiev noticed it all too well and gave them a knowing grin.

“Young and in love…such a wonderful thing to see, especially with such an important pair.” Maiev said with a chuckle, giving Prowlus a pair of big round eyes. “Wouldn’t you agree, love?”

“Yes dear.” Prowlus nodded slowly, though it was clear the topic was more uncomfortable to him.

“I remember when Prowlus first started courting me…long walks through the woods, hunting together, even tried his hand at carving to fashion me gifts. He got better at it over the years, but it was the thought that mattered most to me.” She said with a chuckle, giving her mate loving eyes.

“Must we discuss our love life in front of guests?” Prowlus gave her a look, to which she raised her hands up in surrender, before turning her attention to the deer meat which had been laid before them.

“Well, I’m glad for you both…and I know Hunter will be too.” Meadow stated matter-of-factly. “Times have been hard, and hard times have a way of making you realize how much you’ve left undone. I’ll need to visit my own wife in her village.”

“How did the other villages fare during the sundering?” Cynder asked, while Spyro leaned down to bite into the deer meat which had been brought to them by one of the cooks, listening to them speaking.

“The message from Hunter’s falcon arrived right in time. The southern village got the worst of it, their wall is still in need of repairs. But I’m grateful to say no one was killed due to the damages, and that which was broken can be repaired.” Prowlus explained, seemingly happy to be talking about a more serious matter.

“How was-?” Spyro tried to ask but had to finish chewing and swallowing his bite before speaking. “How was Warfang when you left?”

“Warfang suffered some minor damage, but much which would have been was repaired when the world came back together the dragons think…your doing, I presume?” Prowlus asked.

“Yes…” Spyro said sheepishly.

“For someone to accomplish such a feat at such a young age…even I cannot deny that you’ve earned the title of heroes.” He affirmed.

Spyro and Cynder would return to their meals, no longer talking as they wished to simply dig in and fill their bellies with the meal graciously offered to them by the cheetahs.

Spyro was the first to speak again.

“Meadow, you wouldn’t happen to know of any good sightseeing spots in the valley would you?” Spyro asked, earning a thoughtful look and chin rub from the cheetah.

“Hmph, good sightseeing…for we who are on two legs I’d recommend…no, not good enough for dragons. Oh! When you pass our north-western border near the forbidden passage, there are a pair of waterfalls that pour back down into the Silver River…I’ve never been up there but I can only imagine that they offer a lovely view from being so high up.” Meadow nodded his head, earning a thankful nod from the two dragons before they ducked their heads down to continue eating their meal.

“Race you to the falls!” Cynder called back to Spyro as they flew away from the cheetah village, earning a wave goodbye from Maiev and Meadow…Prowlus refrained from waving however. Cynder took off like a speeding bullet through the air without even giving Spyro a chance to respond to her!

“No fair!” Spyro called out to her before he took off as quickly as his wings could carry him! He quickly caught up a fair distance from her, seeing her tail-blade flickering side to side as she soared ahead. Her wings were nearly full extension, catching as much wind as possible. “That wasn’t a fair start Cynder!”

“All’s fair in love and war!” She called back to the purple dragon, giving an elegant flap of her wings which carried her a good distance further ahead of Spyro! Spyro did his best to stay caught up with her, but the purple dragon inevitably was still the weaker flyer of the two.

Spyro got an idea and opened his mouth to let out a weak fireball! It wasn’t strong enough to do harm, but the blowback impact of it ahead of Cynder would cause her to lose some momentum! She gasped as she was suddenly thrown back some by the fireballs each time they exploded, giving him a challenging grin before she extended her wings further to get ahead once more!

Spyro realized then that she was merely toying with him. He knew better too, she was the stronger flyer and had purposefully been going at a more reasonable pace to keep it interesting! She gave off a gust of wind and used it to propel herself a bit further, making his newfound strategy irrelevant in an instant as she was now too fast for the fireballs to ease up her momentum! Spyro was forced to extend his wings to the fullest to keep up with the black dragoness now!

Spyro tried harder and harder to catch up with Cynder, but it was for naught as she was simply too fast for him to keep up with! The rolling hills and lush green of Avalar darted by before their very eyes, unable to keep track of everything moving by so rapidly! The two dragons lost track of how long they flew for, but soon enough the tip of the falls came into view.

Spyro’s hopes of making a comeback quickly diminished when he spotted Cynder sitting on her haunches, a triumphant look on her face now as the purple dragon finally made landing near her. He was panting a little while she looked as though she hadn’t broken a sweat flying all the way to the falls in such a rushed manner.

“Well with how slowly you flew, you’d think we weren’t racing.” Cynder said with a smirk. Spyro couldn’t help but roll his eyes.

“You keep that up and I’ll call you Sparx.” Spyro jested, earning a look of fake insult.

“Harsh.” She places a paw over her chest as it puffed out some, before her face softened and returned to a smile. “Honestly though…I’m just…happy.” She sighed softly at the word, glancing down at the falls. “For the first time in my life…I can just claim that I’m happy.”

Spyro was still a bit breathless, but smiled nonetheless as he stepped up beside her to take in the view of the valley below them. It was impressive, just how expansive the entire Valley of Avalar was, even for dragons…despite that they were still not to their first major growth spurts. But from his time studying, Spyro judged they’d soon experience one within the next few months…maybe sooner.

Spyro had already noticed a chance in her ever since they woke up. Despite their obvious appearance change after three years, her wings had grown a bit further and her tail had extended a little. After so much fighting, he’d put on more muscle than he had started with since their awakening.

“I’m glad you are…you deserve some sense of happiness after what you’ve been through. And…I think staying here a few extra days was the right call. It was a well needed break for us…after everything that’s happened, we deserved it.” Spyro said, hugging her close with his wing.

“It’s beautiful up here.” She said, turning to fully face the valley now, her tail curling around her legs. Spyro moved next to her and placed a wing over her back. He did admire the view of the valley down below them, the way the falls flowed down into the Silver River. Avalar had to be at an elevated level, for the two dragons could see a great expanse of land for miles all around them.

The waterfall itself was a lovely blend of blue and silvery toned water that flowed down strongly into the mouth of the river. It was impressive that it connected throughout the entire dragon kingdom with its many far-reaching arms. But while Cynder’s gaze was attentive for the land below them, Spyro’s found its way back to her after a few long moments.

“Yeah…you are.” He caught her attention. Deep down she felt her heart swell some at his words, but the black dragoness outwardly rolled her eyes before smirking.

“You are so corny.” She said with a chuckle.

“Maybe…but I’ll tell you what I’m not.” He smirked, leaning in close to her, earning a sly look in return from the black dragoness.

“Oh yeah? What’s that?” She asked, her voice softening some as they spoke more quietly to each other. He leaned in dangerously close, almost as if he was going to kiss her, and she fully expected it too as she closed her eyes.

Except, a kiss never came.

“I’m not going to be second place to the bottom…!” He said with a chortle, her eyes opening wide into saucers before she saw him vanish over the edge of the falls!

“Spyro!” She called out, chasing after him, her wings opening wide before diving down after the purple dragon. “I thought it was you complaining about cheating!” She barked at him.

“Hey like you said, all’s fair! Besides, I’m seeing the merits of your point!” He called back as they dived down the waterfall with their wings folded back, dashing down the falls like a pair of arrows being loosed from the bowstring!

Cynder narrowed her gaze, having a bit of difficulty seeing Spyro due to the water spraying back on them from the twin waterfalls! But she’d let loose a gust of wind that rocketed her down at an accelerated pace! Spyro glanced to the side and saw her right alongside him now, but rather than let her pass, he had other ideas!

“Oh no you don’t!” He laughs as he moves to the side, grappling the dragoness as they both went tumbling together towards the river. She let out a bit of a yelp before they both plunged into the water beneath them! Under the water, Spyro just hugged close to her for a moment before releasing her! Cynder desperately swam back to the surface, paddling awkwardly as she pulled herself ashore!

Spyro was far more graceful as he quickly swam to the shore as well, pulling himself up with a soft laugh.

“That was…that was fun!” He grinned at her, earning an annoyed glance back in return.

“That was most certainly not fun!” She complained, swatting his shoulder with one of her paws which earned another laugh from him. “Stop laughing at me!” She said again, but he couldn’t stop himself from giggling. The dragoness leaped onto Spyro, interrupting his laughing as they began rolling in the grass together! They were still soaked from the water and the grass matted down around them as they wrestled.

Spyro could have overpowered Cynder but didn’t wish to assert himself in such a way. He just enjoyed the childish interaction between the two of them. It wasn’t long before he found himself on his back with her atop him, both of them now breathing a bit heavier while she loomed over the purple dragon.

“Call it a draw?” He asked with a cheeky grin, earning another eyeroll from her and a laugh.

“Shut up.” She said softly, shifting so she was now laying down atop of him, their chests pressed together as she leaned down to meet his lips with her own, the dragoness cooing softly into the kiss. Spyro held her close, sliding a paw along her long neck. When they pulled away from the embrace, she laid her head down atop his chest and curled up on him

“Comfy?” He asks after a short silence, earning a snort from her.

“Very.” She responds. They just laid like that for what felt like hours together. The wind flowed over their wettened scales, chilling them ever so slightly and making them hold each other closer for their warmth. The trees and leaves around them slowly rustled with the breeze, sun shining down over them and warming the two dragons with its rays.

Spyro and Cynder could have laid like that forever, just basking in the warmth of the sun and in each other’s warmth as well. But Spyro’s heart nagged at him with the other concerns facing them. His thoughts went back to Sparx and the Guardians. He longed to just spend time with Cynder and her alone…but he also had to get back to his brother.

He could only imagine how worried they were for the pair of them, having been away from the city for days now and had no way to contact Warfang ever since they had set out for the belt of fire with Ignitus.

‘Ignitus!’ Spyro’s thoughts went to the fire guardian that instant, having almost forgotten about him. Cynder felt his soft breathing hitch and turned her gaze to the purple dragon, who was now looking very glum.

“What’s wrong Spyro?” She asks softly, showing concern for the purple dragon now.

Spyro would slowly shift them so that he was now sitting upright and she was on her side next to him, glancing up at him as he looked down into the water of the river as it flowed by. He could barely see his reflection, but every time he did it was quickly distorted and broken up seconds after.

“We nearly lost him in the belt…only for him to save us. If I had been quicker…if I had gotten through to you sooner…maybe it would have turned out differently. Maybe he’d still be here with us.” Spyro said with a sad shudder, but Cynder was upright and on his flank in an instant.

“Or you couldn’t have gotten through to me at all, Spyro. If that happened I would have killed you…then it wouldn’t have mattered regardless. Without you we had no chance against Malefor.” Cynder stated matter-of-factly. “You can’t beat yourself up over what could have been.”

“I don’t think it was that hopeless. You could have faced him if you managed to break free.” Spyro glanced back at her, earning a shake of her head.

“No…after seeing what you did with the convexity breath? I don’t think I could have pulled that off.” Cynder smiled sheepishly. “How did you know to redirect convexity?”

“I…didn’t.” Spyro admitted, earning a strange look from her. “I can’t really explain it. Every element has a sense of direction in the way it’s used…convexity is theoretically the fury of all elements combined…but if that statement is true, it means that redirecting the energy isn’t impossible. But…that was just a theory, but I can happily say that a trial by fire proved said theory true.” Spyro said with a sideways grin.

“You are such a male.” She rolled her eyes, just pressing her head against his own. “I’m glad it worked…I would have hated to lose you in such an awful way.”

“I know…and I will promise you this, you won’t lose me so easily.” Spyro said firmly, earning a soft hum of approval from her.

“Good.” She responded, simply enjoying being pressed against him again.

“How am I going to tell then what happened to Ignitus?” Spyro asked quietly, earning a thoughtful noise from Cynder. “How do I…tell them about the other side of me.”

“Regarding Ignitus…just tell them the truth. He died saving us…the right words will come to you. As for your dark aether problem…they don’t have to know that yet.” Cynder explained, earning a concerned look from him.

“Cynder they told us no more secrets between themselves and us too…besides, you and Sparx kept it hidden and it…could have been far worse if you hadn’t snapped me out of it.” Spyro retorted.

“I know what we agreed to with them…and I know Sparx and I keeping it from you was wrong, but we still had good reason. How do you explain such a thing to the person it affects? The guardians can learn in due time…if they have a problem with it when the truth does come out, we’ll handle it. But for now I think you should keep such a thing hidden for now until we know more about it. Warfang’s library is extensive I’m sure…there has to be something on dark aether, anything.” Cynder explained.

Spyro relented, nodding his head in agreement. Even if they did tell the guardians, what good would it truly do? Convexity was still a rather vague power and perhaps it would do them some good to read up on the matter before pressing the issue.

Another long silence followed between the two young dragons, but Spyro was the first to break it again, looking back at Cynder reluctantly.

“We have to go…back to Warfang, I mean. It’s time, Cynder.” Spyro said firmly, earning a nod from her.

“I know…and I think I’m finally ready to go back.” Cynder offered a smile and nod.

“Then we’d best get going…it’s going to be a decent flight before we reach the city…and I’d rather not go through the forbidden tunnel to reach the city again.” He said sheepishly, earning an immediate nod from her.

“I’ve had enough of being underground for a lifetime.” She added. With all being said and done, the two would smile at each other one last time before lifting off the ground with a flap of their wings, taking off to the West and back to Warfang.

It was time to return home.

The late evening sun was settling over the horizon above Warfang, a brilliant mix of vibrant purple and orange beginning to paint the sky like a lovely campus of blue centered around a blaze of yellow. The light shone down on the city as if it were a beacon in a sea of colors.

Repair efforts had already begun in the city, scaffolding lined the broken section of the wall where the moles were wrapping up repair efforts for the day. The limited number of dragons in the city meant the moles had to do the heavy lifting for now…though they were happy to do so. Moles, in Sparx’s opinion, were really nitpicky with the way they wanted things done.

The dragonfly looked beyond the horizon, just waiting for any sign to be given. Anything. Just some sign telling him his brother was alright. He had just floated there for hours, waiting for his brother to come back.

He didn’t even notice when Hunter arrived, standing by his side.

Or had Hunter simply shown up so silently that he wouldn’t have noticed the feline anyway? Who knew.

“I will never tire of the view this city has for the sunrise and sunset. Even Avalar’s sun view pales in comparison.” Hunter said with a smile as he took up a kneeling position next to Sparx. “Now if only the Burned Lands would heal sooner and look like less of an eyesore.”

Sparx said nothing in response, earning a soft sigh from Hunter.

“You mustn’t worry yourself to death over this young Sparx. Trust that in time Spyro will return when fate decrees it is his time to return.” Hunter offered a slight smile to Sparx, who didn’t look comforted by his words even a little bit.

“Everyone keeps saying to just give him time to come back but…I can’t help but worry, okay?! He’s my brother and has now been missing for way too long for comfort! He could be out there hurt, stuck, lost, even dead, and we wouldn’t know! I’m tired of everyone telling me I need to stop worrying about him!” Sparx stammered, stuttering a few times.

“Spyro?” Hunter asked quickly, earning an eyeroll from Sparx.

“Yeah, who did you think I was talking about? I just wanna see him again and know he’s alright.” Sparx continued after being interrupted.

“Spyro!” Hunter said again, earning an annoyed sigh from Sparx as he floated back in forth as a sort of pacing.

“Yes, Spyro! What’s up with you?” Sparx huffed.

“No!” Hunter suddenly grabbed Sparx and turned him to face out past the wall! Sparx yelped but quickly looked in the direction Hunter pointed in, being directed to a pair of shapes flying towards the wall! It was hard to make out at first, but he immediately latched onto the sight of purple.

“Spyro…?” Sparx asked quietly, before they got a bit closer. He could make out golden horns and wing membranes!

“Spyro!” Sparx cheered out, earning a soft laugh from Hunter.

“Go to him.” Hunter motioned him onward, to which Sparx didn’t argue with and immediately darted out to meet the duo.

Spyro and Cynder had been flying for a few hours and had longed to see the city finally, a beacon meaning rest and recovery for them upon arrival. When they finally came over the horizon and the dragon city came into view, their hearts were filled with relief and…hesitance. Nothing had changed really, yet it all felt different to see again for some reason.

Something caught their attention immediately, however. A little golden light…and it was coming closer!

“Wait…is that-?” Cynder asked, but a voice cut her off.

“SPYRO!” They heard the little light cry out!

“Sparx?!” Spyro called out, looking closer to confirm his question. Once he spotted the dragonfly’s shape, his heart leaped for joy! “SPARX!” Spyro called out, darting off towards his brother!

They flew directly at each other before the two finally got into hugging distance. Sparx latched himself onto Spyro’s chest tightly and placed his arms as wide as they could reach over his golden crest. Spyro placed a paw behind Sparx and held the dragonfly against him as tightly as he possibly could without harming his smaller brother.

“I missed you so badly man…when you didn’t come back I was worried that you guys had…” Sparx didn’t finish his statement, tears rolling down his golden cheeks. Spyro couldn’t help but shed a few tears as well while embracing his dragonfly brother.

“I know…I know Sparx…but I’m back now.” Spyro shuddered, the two of them hugging for a while longer before Sparx pulled back from his adoptive dragon brother. His gaze fell to Cynder, who was ready for him to make some backhanded or jesting comment at her expense.

She was stunned to the core however when neither came…and instead, the dragonfly latched himself to her chest too and hugged her! Cynder felt as though she’d fall from the sky from how stiff her entire body went.

It was a wonder her wings kept flapping.

“Cynder! You made it too! You kept your word and…thank you. Just…thank you.” Sparx said muffled against her red chest. She couldn’t help but crack a smile. She placed a paw on Sparx and held him close. For once, she felt truly welcomed by the dragonfly despite their rocky history.

“I made a promise, Sparx…they say it’s bad habit to break promises.” Cynder said softly, before Sparx would quickly pull away.

“I knew you’d keep it…but come on! The old guys need to know you’re back!” Sparx jumped around back to Spyro. “I think they’re still in a meeting but I’m positive they wouldn’t be bothered by you guys showing up.”

Sparx stopped suddenly.

“Speaking of them…where’s Big Red?” Sparx asked, earning a nervous glance between Spyro and Cynder.

“We’ll explain it when we reach the council meeting room.” Spyro said, earning a worried look from Sparx before he’d turn to lead the dragons back to the central building of the tower.

When the two dragons, Sparx and Hunter made it to the top of the tower (after waiting for Hunter to quickly climb the stairs up the massive tower), they came to the doors of the guardian hall resided. Inside it was the council meeting hall, the guardian chambers, and below it on the lower level was the council’s personal chambers.

They could hear some voice speaking on the other side, and Hunter would be the first to approach the double doors, pushing hard as he’d swing them open for the group to pass through.

“I’m just saying Terrador that we have more than adequate individuals to fill some council roles. Nix has already offered to take up the position as Regent of Warfang, and I’m sure we could finally fill the captain of the guard role.” Cyril’s voice was the first they could make out.

“Listen here, Cyril! I won’t let you and your mate worm your way further into our politics without us coming down to a proper vote! I’m sure she’d make a fine Regent but we can’t simply skip the steps we placed so long ago to put dragons in those positions!” Volteer spoke up.

“Hold off a moment, both of you! Who’s there?!” Terrador’s voice rose, causing the group to go a bit stiff. “Official guardian business only!”

“It is only I, guardians…and I believe this will be worth the interruption.” Hunter called out as they finally entered the view of the room. All the guardians went stiff a moment as the registered the two young dragons entering the room.

Spyro and Cynder immediately felt a bit awkward with the three sets of eyes staring at them, almost like they weren’t really there. But it was Terrador who first stepped away from his seat at the table to greet them. He towered over the purple and black dragons, eyeing them both with his hard gaze.

The two dragons bowed their heads to the earth guardian…but they went stiff as they felt a pair of strong paws on their shoulders. When they looked back up, they saw only joy on Terrador’s face.

“Young dragons…you bow to no one.” Terrador said before he set his paws down…and instead, it was he who bowed his head down to their level. They were both stunned, even more so when Cyril and Volteer mirrored Terrador’s action. The three guardians bowed their heads to the two dragons…and they couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed by such an honor.

“Welcome home.” Terrador said with a smile as he rose again.

“Simply marvelous that you’ve both returned! Stupendous! Incredible! The legends always said that the foretold purple dragon born in the Year of the Dragon would defeat Malefor but one can hardly help but be stunned the truth of the reality which we’re presented-!” Volteer said with his excited voice.

“It is impressive, Volteer.” Cyril cut off Volteer’s stumbling words. “As he said…well done, young dragons.” Cyril offered with a smile.

Terrador would return to his position at the table, allowing Spyro and Cynder to take up a position at the head, Sparx and Hunter at their side.

“You’ve come back in good time, young dragons…we were getting worried after an entire week.” Terrador said flatly.

“A week? We…we’ve been gone for an entire week? We thought it was just three days or so.” Spyro gave them a confused look.

“Yes, as Terrador said- you two have been gone for an entire week once we reach the end of the evening. You left on the eve of Santer and today is Santer.” Volteer added. The two gave each other confused looks before returning their gazes to the guardians.

“I hate to cut into the reunion…but…young dragons when you left for the belt of fire…there were three of you. Where is Ignitus?” Cyril asked.

Spyro’s muscles went stiff, dreading this exact moment. He was comforted however when Cynder placed a wing over his back, giving him a reassuring look as they both sat down on their haunches.

“Terrador, Volteer, Cyril…I’m sorry.” Spyro said, a single tear rolling down his cheek as he looked back at them. “Ignitus isn’t coming back…he fell.”

The very room seemed to shudder.

Terrador’s gaze fell to the floor, silently trying to come to terms with the words Spyro had just uttered. Volteer looked as though he’d begin shedding tears at the mere notion of Ignitus being gone. Cyril looked as though he had been paralyzed, unable to move a single muscle, eyes wide.

Sparx looked to the floor sadly. He had thought Ignitus wouldn’t return with Spyro and Cynder…but it was still hard to accept. Hunter’s reaction was much like Terrador’s, eyes closed and head tilted to the floor.

“Ignitus…dead? No…no…impossible!” Cyril said, unable to truly grasp their words, an almost panicked look on his face.

“My dear friend…” Volteer sniffled, a few stray tears rolling down his yellow muzzle, unable to meet the young dragons as he lifted a wing to wipe his face clear.

Terrador opened his eyes once again, turning to meet Spyro and Cyncer’s gazes.

“What happened?” He asked simply.

“When we reached the belt of fire, he shielded us from the heat…he got us through. But he was too weak to follow us further without slowing us down. So, we pressed on into the Burned Lands without him. When we confronted Malefor…there were…complications. When it was all said and done, Malefor was prepared to kill us…but Ignitus arrived and came to our aid. It wasn’t enough before Malefor prepared to kill me and Cynder before we could get out of the way…and Ignitus…” Spyro croaked some.

“Yes, Spyro?” Terrador asked.

“…he took the killing blow.” Spyro said with a tear rolling down his cheek, reliving the moment. Cynder moved close to his side, doing her best to comfort the purple dragon.

“He…he went as he wished to then.” Volteer said with a shaky voice, still clearly on the verge of tears. “H-h-he always said he wished to atone…for the night of the temple raid and our loss in the war…his years in exile. He always wanted to die knowing Malefor was defeated.”

“What of Malefor?” Cyril asked quietly, trying to silently come to terms with Ignitus’ death.

“And Malefor?” Cyril asked, trying to shake off the news of losing Ignitus…while silently mourning their leader. “Is he done for?”

“Despite all his strength…when it was all said and done, Malefor was nothing but dust. Perhaps his soul could linger…but in every other sense of the word, Malefor is dead.” Cynder answered the ice guardian, who gave her a stern look.

“And good riddance I say.” He spat the words at the thought of the ancient purple dragon.

“Indeed…while you both won our world a major victory…we cannot deny that…losing Ignitus is hard. But…I suppose one thing to accept is that going forward I now lead the guardians.” Terrador sighed, shaking his head. “I do not share his confidence in my leadership.”

“I do.” Spyro said firmly. “Ignitus chose you to lead in his stead…and I think he did so knowing he may not be coming back. He trusted you to lead…and so do I.” Spyro

Terrador wouldn’t show it, but Spyro’s words warmed his heart and very being.

“Thank you Spyro.” Terrador said, his face stoic. “There will be more time to discuss Malefor and his fate…we must prepare for vultures to descend and take advantage of the precarious state the world has been left in. The hour is growing late and you two will need all the rest you can get…Hunter, would you care to guide these two dragons to a pair of rooms in the residential district to call their own?”

Hunter bowed his head, but Cynder would intervene.

“Actually, guardians…could we be permitted to share a residence?” Cynder asked, earning a curious gaze from everyone in the room.

“Share a room? We typically only permit families or mated couples to share a room-.” Cyril said the words aloud, before suddenly piecing together the reason as to why Cynder was now intertwining paws with Spyro.

“Oh, how lovely! Ignitus always said their fates were intertwined in more ways than one…I needed some more joyous news.” Volteer said relievedly. Cyril was rather stunned, but no more than Sparx.

“You two are…?” Sparx pieced it together.

“We didn’t…” Spyro blushed. “…go that far. But…I’d like to be serious about it.” Cynder glanced away, thankful that her black scales mostly hid her own blushes.

Hunter just smiled, it was a shadow of a smile as he was still mourning the fire guardian, but it was welcome news to add onto everything.

“I think we all knew one day it would come to pass…yes, you may both share one of the coupled homes. Though…we’ll still dedicate a pair of rooms to you both, should you need them.” Terrador would add. “Hunter, show them to one?”

“Of course, guardians…and goodnight.” The cheetah warrior said with a bow of his head.

“Spyro, Cynder, meet us here when the great clock atop the tower strikes at nine before noon arrives. We have more to discuss regarding Warfang’s dragon population…and we shall need your aid. But for now, go and rest. You’ll have several new dragons to meet and get to know.” Terrador bade them farewell as they and Sparx followed Hunter out.

Once Spyro, Cynder, Sparx and Hunter had left the room, the trio turned grim gazes upon each other.

“Who will take Ignitus’ place?” Cyril asked sadly. “Without a fire guardian, our order is incomplete…and the old law of the guardians is that we must always have a guardian of each of the major four elements.”

“I…I can think of no one present in the city who could fill the role. Perhaps…no…” Volteer fumbled.

“We can’t disband because we don’t have a fire guardian…not yet. We will act as we see fit and pray that the mission we’re sending the search teams on bears fruit. Perhaps a fitting candidate will be discovered.” Terrador said firmly, earning nods from them both.

“Well…when we find a fill-in guardian, you get to be the one who explains it to Spyro.” Cyril retorted to Terrador, who rolled his eyes.

“My friends, it’s well past time we retire. Return to your chambers and families. I have much to do while the night is still young.” Terrador gestured for them to both depart. “And goodnight.” He said, before turning to enter his own chamber from the meeting room.

Hunter led them to the massive residential district of the city, on the way he had explained the general layout. Each tower was filled with several homes…large enough to house dozens upon dozens of dragons individually. There were also group houses where families could reside. And then there was the middle ground of the homes, the suites, which were designed for dragon pairs without hatchlings of their own yet.

He also explained that the mole homes were mostly beneath the surface of the city, as the moles preferred to be underground when they slept. Hunter added that several cheetahs were still in the city and staying with the moles until their job was done, which was to be revealed the next day.

“And here we are…your very own suite.” Hunter smiled. “I picked out one of the nicer ones for you both. Your individual rooms should you need them are directly below us one floor down. I’ll show you around…I had much time to study Warfang while we waited for your return.”

With that, Spyro would push the door open and allow Hunter to lead the trio inside. The room was clearly meant for more grown dragons to reside in, but there were no regulations against couples living in a suite…so this was their obvious choice. There was a large, round bed adorned with finely crafted blankets and pillows for dragons to lounge upon.

Hunter went to the fireplace and would retrieve a small black rock atop the mantle, having to reach ever so slightly. It had some form of rune placed into it.

“These are magical coals…for dragons who can’t breathe fire, simply crush it some and toss it into the fireplace!” Hunter said…clearly, he was giddy at having been given the chance to study dragon lifestyles. He crushed the coal in his hand and tossed it into the fireplace, a small flame taking form in mere seconds!

There was a large bookshelf which was lined mostly with blank parchment. A large ink reservoir and large feather pens rested on a rather large desk with some other assortments strewn about.

“What kind of feathers are these?” Sparx asked as he observed one. The pen was a little larger than he was!

“Ah, puffer bird pens, rather large things but mostly harmless.” Hunter smiled. “Large enough for dragons to write with.”

Hunter led them past a small dining area for the dragons and out onto a balcony.

“It is here where I leave you both with my personal favorite part of the dragon homes…the balconies.” He gestured for them to both have a look. Being so high off the ground and near the top of their tower had them looking down over most of the massive dragon city. There was a small which was more of a design choice than necessity considering they were winged creatures.

“Now then…it has been a long evening. Goodnight…and welcome back.” Hunter smiles, departing from their suite with a flowing flare of his cloak, dramatic in every fashion but still stylish.

Once he closed the door behind him, Spyro just smiled as he viewed the new constellation in the sky which was lit by the celestial moons. Cynder studied it too for a moment but yawned as she turned to enter the suite once more. Spyro and Sparx weren’t far behind.

Spyro spotted Cynder now climbing onto the bed, curling up beneath one of the blankets. She smiled at him and gestured for the purple dragon to join her. He could hardly refuse as he climbed atop the bed and slid up next to her, giving her a warm smile before she leaned over to lick his cheek.

Sparx faked a gag.

“Eugh, am I gonna have to see that daily now?” He asked, earning a sly nod from Cynder.

“Better get used to it, blinky.” Cynder said with a snicker, earning a groan from the dragonfly.

“We’ll try to not get too involved while you’re around Sparx.” Spyro reassured his dragonfly brother.

“Okay good…” Sparx muttered before finding a nice spot above the mantle to lay atop of, keeping right where he could be warmed by the now gentle fire crackling beneath him.

“Well Cynder, I guess tomorrow…we start our new life.” Spyro said with a smile, nuzzling her cheek some before he laid down.

“Our new life…in our own home.” She beamed at him, laying down right next to him and grazing against his side.

Sparx wanted to vomit at the mushy words being exchanged, but deep deep down…he was happy for them both.

Chapter Text

Cynder was abruptly woken up when she felt something pressing against her muzzle. When her eyes regained focus, she made out a particular purple dragon nuzzling into her.

“Spyro…” she glanced to the balcony, seeing that daylight hadn’t broken yet. “It’s still so early…we don’t have to see the guardians for several hours.” She whined. He let out a soft laugh as he continued to nuzzle her.

“You can go back to sleep after this. I just wanted to share something with you.” Spyro nudged her again, earning a yawn and a grunt from her as she’d slowly rise up from their bed. The fire had died down hours ago, but the warmth it provided them remained as the very air in the room was still cozily warm and their bed was still toasty.

“Alright…this better be good.” She grumbled, following him out to the balcony. Sparx was already there…for someone who loved their beauty sleep, he looked unbothered by this. Perhaps there was more to this than she initially believed.

“Adding someone else to our morning ritual?” Sparx asked, earning a slight laugh from Spyro as he sat down on his haunches near the railing of the balcony. Cynder would sit down next to him as the trio just sat there, staring out over the skyline above Warfang.

“It’s a pretty morning, Spyro…but why are we out here?” Cynder asked softly, her voice still a bit groggy from her abrupt awakening moments ago.

“Just give it time, Sparx and I have been doing this ever since we lived in the swamp.” Spyro smiled, placing a wing around her back, allowing the black dragoness to tilt her head so she was resting on one of his shoulders.

“Isn’t this weird? I’m the one being patient and she’s acting impatient.” Sparx chuckled, earning a tired glare from Cynder which quickly shut him up.

The two dragons and the dragonfly just waited there on the balcony for what felt like ages to Cynder. Spyro and Sparx, however, were seemingly unfazed by how long they were simply sitting there in silence, glancing out at the dark horizon above the dragon capital. They enjoyed the view itself well enough, but what they awaited was worth the early wake up.

“Are we waiting for something…?” Cynder asked softly, enjoying Spyro’s warmth as they all just sat there waiting.

“Hold up- I think its here!” Sparx said happily, and soon enough Cynder’s questions would be answered as the early dawn started to peak over the horizon. Spyro and Sparx grinned goofily, while Cynder’s gaze froze momentarily. She had seen the sun rise before, but she’d never really paid attention to it. The sunrises she had witnessed didn’t quite compare to this…a Warfang sunrise was something else.

Over the edge of the horizon came the bright blaze of yellow and orange that was their sun, shining down over the flatlands that surrounded the city of Warfang, stretching all the way to the border of the now extinguished Burned Lands. The current scholars in Warfang predicted that with Malefor’s plan foiled and the world repaired, the horrid land of charred gray and ash would start to heal overtime…and perhaps even grow into a land of beauty with so much volcanic activity in the past.

Cynder’s eyes studied the stretching colors from the sun intertwining with the land below them, setting alight the various greens and yellows across the flatlands. In the sky itself, it became a brilliant hue of blue swirling together with yellow into a soft, light violet and purple which pleased the eyes of any watching.

“Its beautiful…” Cynder said softly, leaning against Spyro a bit further as she just watched the sunrise alongside him and Sparx, unable to really take her eyes away from the view as it crept ever higher into the deep blue sky.

“You see, Cynder? Worth it.” Spyro said with a broad smile. “Me and Sparx have gotten up to watch the sunrise together ever since we were kids.”

“Thank you…for sharing this with me.” She smiled back at Spyro, leaning over to nuzzle the underside of his chin, before lowering herself down so she was laying down on the balcony, being given the view still as she rested beneath the open sky with the breeze traveling over her scales. Sparx fake gagged at the showing of affection before returning his view to the sky.

Spyro stayed sitting there for a while longer, eventually he would shift down to his belly next to where Cynder laid down, keeping his wing draped over her back to keep her close. When the sun was more present in the sky finally, Sparx let out a soft yawn, stretching his arms.

“I’m gonna get some more sleep, Spy…” Sparx turned to fly back into the suite, through the open door, glancing back at Spyro. “You two coming?”

Spyro was about to follow after Sparx, but noted Cynder hadn’t made any effort to move, or even speak. When he glanced back, he saw the black dragoness resting her head on her front paws, fast asleep once again.

He just let out a little chuckle, sliding next to her.

“You go on ahead, Sparx…we’ll be out here.” Spyro laid his head down, earning a shrug from Sparx as the dragonfly flew back into the suite to return to his perch above the fireplace.

Spryo sighed softly as he closed his eyes to fall asleep again, content to rest beside the black dragoness on his flank beneath the rising sun.

When the two dragons woke up, they went about their first real day in Warfang. The two spent a good half hour wondering over the washroom of the suite. A bath and other facilities which were engineered by the moles. They didn’t fully understand how it all worked…but maybe it was better that they didn’t learn how some of the facilities worked and simply accepted that it did work.

Upon leaving the suite, they were greeted by the sight of several bundles of flowers, wrapped boxes, and even a fully prepared meal from the council kitchen! The two had wished to be presented personally so they could properly thank those who brought them the wonderful gifts, but they were content to eat the provided meal of roasted goat and some salted port before they departed to the guardian chambers.

Upon arriving at the chambers, the trio could already hear deliberation inside. Spyro had checked the great clock at the peak of the tower to ensure they were on time…the two dragons were actually a few minutes early, content to enter the council meeting hall.

“You two go on ahead, I’m gonna go have a look around the city for some grub.” Sparx said with a rumble of his tiny stomach, Spyro nodding in response.

“Alright, stay out of trouble. Meet us in the market later, Terrador sent a message with the gifts saying that’s where we’ll be headed after the meeting.” Spyro explained, earning a mock salute from the dragonfly before he buzzed off into Warfang.

As the duo entered the meeting hall and the doors swung open, they were immediately greeted by the sight of the guardians, a few other dragons, and Hunter.

“-me for a fool to believe the wind dragons all gone?” They spotted a large ice dragoness speaking next to Cyril. “I know the wind dragons live; I refuse to accept anything less!” Nix, unfamiliar to Spyro or Cynder, said aloud.

“Nix we never said they were extinct; I simply believe that it may be a wasted effort to seek them out blindly. We have no evidence to suggest where they fled to when Ignitus sent word for their enclave to go into hiding. Nearly two-hundred dragons vanished from the wind dragon embassy without a trace…they’ve remained missing with good reason. Aurala wasn’t a fool…” Terrador huffed, earning a scowl from the ice dragoness.

“I believe we have guests.” Cyril cut in, interrupting any further argument as to draw everyone’s attention to Spyrp and Cynder entering the hall.

“Ooooooh! The purple dragon!” An electric dragoness next to Volteer bounced on her paws some, looking positively giddy as she watched. “Simply fascinating!”

Spyro smiled sheepishly, earning an apologetic look from Volteer as they took their place at the table.

“Spyro, Cynder…Sparx.” Terrador bowed his head in greeting to the trio. “I hope you three slept well for your first night in Warfang?” The earth guardian asked, earning nods from them both.

“We slept well…and thank you for sending the meal our way, it was delicious.” Spyro smiled at the guardians, who gave each other a pleased glance amongst themselves.

“The suite is lovely, Terrador, thank you.” Cynder bowed her head, earning one in return from the green-scaled dragon. Cyril looked as though he would speak but was interrupted as Nix slipped past him and approached the duo. The dragoness near Volteer gave the ice dragoness a quizzical look.

Cyril tried to speak as she got closer to the two dragons, worried that her intentions weren’t entirely peaceful.

“Spyro, Cynder- this is my mate, Nix…one of the two leaders of the hidden dragon settlement.” He tried to keep the situation calm, but his words fell silent as the majestic looking ice dragoness craned her head down to meet the two, her cyan eyes settling on Cynder, however.

“This is a meeting I never thought would come to pass…I was always wondered if I’d one day meet the Terror of the Skies.” She spoke a bit coldly, her eyes piercing deeply into Cynder’s emerald ones. Cynder seemed to shrink under the ice dragoness’ intense gaze.

Spyro seemed to shift his own stance, almost defensively, by Cynder’s side as he watched Nix’s every move carefully. Despite her hesitance, Cynder stared back into Nix’s cyan eyes with her emeralds ones, a deep silence befalling the room as the two seemed to just lock eyes for an eternity.

They were like that for what felt like hours, just studying each other and seemingly reading each other down to their very cores.

They were all relieved when Nix seemed to ease up some, her face softening and muscles going lax once more.

“…but it seems I never shall meet her. What I see before me is a broken soul making amends, as Cyril told me before.” Nix seemed to ease up and would turn away, returning to her seated position next to Cyril, who seemed to visibly relax as she was back at the table. “There is still much uncertainty about you Cynder, but what fears I once had are unfounded. Perhaps you’ll play a bigger role than any could anticipate in the future of our race.”

Cynder let out a relieved sigh as the ice dragon left, even smiling at her words uttered. Simple to some but hearing an older dragon who hadn’t met her prior not hold the past against her, for now…it helped.

“A dragon on a similar power scale to the purple dragon! Simply astounding! While I’d deem Malefor mad and beyond cruel to subject someone so young to the atrocities involved with being made so powerful via brute force, I can’t deny that the results standing before me are nothing short of a miracle who came to our world’s aid!” The dragoness by Volteer spoke, again, earning them a sheepish look from the electricity guardian.

“This is Tempest, the other leader from the settlement and my mate.” Volteer introduced her, earning the two dragons a bow from the electricity dragoness.

“A pleasure to meet you both.” Spyro said with a broad smile, bowing his horns to them both. “But…guardians, you summoned us here for a reason?”

“Yes, Spyro, we called you and Cynder here to discuss the matter of our city and the…lack…of dragons inhabiting it. We’ve sent falcons to every hold…Tall Plains, Boyzitbig, Avalar, and whoever else will answer our summons for aid. Everyone with a stake in the dragons returning to their former strength have begun searching whatever corners they can reach to find traces of dragon survivors from the war.” Cyril explained, stepping up to the meeting table to unfurl a map of the old dragon kingdom before those gathered.

Volteer would set out a pair of red flags, placing one near the dark grotto where Spyro and Sparx had ventured to before the events at the Mountain of Malefor. The next was placed near the old dragon temple, a decent distance away in reality- but it looked so close to the eye.

“We’ve caught word that there have been potential sightings in these two regions, to the east where the dragon temple is located, and near the dark grotto…both quite ideal. The grotto would be the last place anyone searching would wish to look…expansive, massive…easy to get lost in.” Volteer elaborated. “A strong shield against search parties from the Apes…fools they were, didn’t know where to truly look. A party of experienced dragons or cheetahs would be much more suited to find some of our missing kin.”

“Indeed…we have reason to suspect the dark grottos is secretly home to a hidden surviving group of dragons. We intend to send the cheetahs there with the necessary supplies to seek out dragons hiding there.” Cyril added onto Volteer’s explanation, turning to give Terrador the floor next.

Hunter placed a hand on his chest and bowed his head.

“I’m honored to be chosen to lead the second search party. My fellow cheetahs and the moles traveling with us will endeavor to do our utmost to find any dragons should they be hiding in the grotto.” Hunter said proudly.

Terrador turned his attention to Spyro and Cynder once more.

“In three days time, two parties will be sent to both regions. The cheetahs to the dark grotto, and dragons to the region near the old temple.” Terrador explained, earning a curious brow from Spyro.

“Near the old temple…you mean…near the swamp? But there were no dragons in that area, my parents never made mention of it.” Spyro gave them a slightly concerned look. “They wouldn’t…hide that from me, would they?”

“I still find it fascinating that you came to be raised by dragonflies.” Cynder said quietly under her breath, easing Spyro’s gaze as he couldn’t help but crack a smile.

“Maybe your parents knew nothing on the matter…but we have reason to believe the dragonflies may have known more than they’ve ever admitted to. What better ally to have and keep your hiding place a secret than those who the world leaves alone due to their distance and disconnection from the troubles of the ongoing conflicts?” Terrador asked them both, leading to Spyro glancing back at the ground, contemplating the guardian’s words.

“Well…the dragonfly elder, Spherin…he’s been around for a long time. Maybe he knew of dragons in the region.” Spyro workshopped it in his head. “Though…apes were all over the areas outside the swamp…I don’t know how a settlement of dragons could hide for so long.”

Terrador seemed to let out a soft chuckle, a tune Spyro and Cynder didn’t think he was capable of.

“The apes missed a purple dragon living among dragonflies for sixteen years, Spyro.” Terrador retorted. “If dragons had ways to keep themselves hidden after the order to go into hiding was sent out, I’ve no doubt that the apes would be foolish enough to miss something…even with the Terror on the prowl in the skies above.”

“That…huh…that’s actually a good point.” Spyro said with a slight frown, rubbing his chin some in thought.

“I…was very thorough…” Cynder muttered sadly, sighing softly. “But I…even with the limited memories I have, I don’t remember finding dragons in that region. Not even Ignitus allowed me to find him.” She looked away, before Spyro gave her a reassuring glance.

“We want you to take a party of dragons, some young and some from the guard to the old temple. From there, venture back to the swamp and learn if the dragonflies know something…anything. From there, seek out any signs of dragons in the region. If you find nothing…or if the search bears fruit and you find dragons, you must do whatever it takes to convince them to return to Warfang. Nix will be co-leading the mission.” Terrador explained to the two dragons. “This is a diplomatic mission if dragons are found, and we have no better diplomat present in the city than Nix.”

The ice dragoness on Cyril’s flank gave a proud smile as she visibly puffed up. Spyro and Cynder gave each other knowing looks…he and Nix were a match made perfect.

“When it comes to the delicate matters of diplomacy, I’ll take lead. Should combat become necessary, you two and Granite will take charge. As for traversing the region and speaking to the dragonflies, it shall be you who will lead us onward through the now uncharted land around the temple.” Nix explained, the two dragons giving her a curious look.

“Who’s Granite?” Cynder asked Nix, while Spyro giving the ice dragoness a curious look.

“One of the younger dragons from the settlement near Warfang. He was the captain of the settlement’s protectors when he came of age to be given such a command. Young as he may be, he served valiantly to handle any threats which befell the settlement.” Tempest explained to the two younger dragons. “He’s not much older than you both, I believe he and our children are five years, give or take, older than you both.”

“In fact, before the mission sets out in three days, we think it best for you two to meet the other young dragons with which you’ll be setting out. We’ve arranged for them to meet you in the market district.” Cyril smiled at them both. “This is a good opportunity for you to both engage with other dragons near your age, and to meet those which will be by your side on the mission.”

“Dragons our age…I never thought we’d meet other dragons like us.” Cynder smiled, glancing at Spyro.

“This should be…interesting.” Spyro said sheepishly. “You were the first dragon I met who was my age…and ours was not a normal circumstance.”

The guardians, Nix, and Tempest gave each other knowing looks.

“They should be meeting outside one of the mole restaurants, Fitwo’s I believe. You’ll find them there…do enjoy your time.” Terrador bowed his head. “You will have much to do, it’s good to have friends to call upon in such a big city.”

“Now? But it feels like we just got here.” Spyro raised a brow, earning a chuckle from Cyril.

“Go on young dragons, we merely wished to catch you both up to speed on the matter of the search parties. Hunter would you be a good lad and stay a while longer? We have other matters to discuss.”

Hunter simply bowed his head, meanwhile Spyro and Cynder gave each other hesitant looks, before the two turned to rush out of the council hall.

Spyro nor Cynder could deny the fact that they were beyond excited to meet new dragons…dragons more to their age! But they both also felt nervous about it…they had zero experience with dragons like them. So young and yet forced to grow up during the war’s late stages.

Once they passed out of the hall, the great double doors slowly closed shut once more.

“Oh, they’re just so cute together!” Tempest said as the two vacated the hall. Nix gave her colleague an eyeroll.

“As fascinating as the purple dragon’s love life is, we have many important matters to discuss.” Nix puffed her chest out some, earning a nod in agreement from Cyril.

“So you keep reminding us, Nix.” Terrador nodded his head slowly, earning an icy glare from the dragoness…though such a look seemed to have little effect on the earth guardian.

“Very well, back to it…” He said while leaning forward to look over the map some more.

Spyro and Cynder had gotten a little turned around finding the market district but find it they did. The entire district was seemingly color-coded with a blue roofing to the buildings located there. They noted this to be a trend with the districts, each being differently colored by rooftops to visually mark them for what they were.

The entire market district was possibly the liveliest part of the city they had yet seen, moles bustling around the open reaches between shops and other stops. They could hear vendors shouting and pulling other moles to come and browse goods. There were even a couple of older dragons in the mix of the crowd. Above the market on the wall stood a pair of dragon guards keeping watch and maintaining an orderly presence.

“Spyro, look!” Cynder drew the purple dragon’s attention away from his sightseeing, pointing a paw at one of the many signs hanging off the buildings in the massive market square. It was a green sign with gold script reading ‘Fitwo’s’. It was an open building with doors large enough for adult dragons to pass through as well as moles.

A pleasant smell of various foods being cooked inside behind the wooden bar emitted from the restaurant. Inside the place they could spot several moles rushing about behind the counter, smoke coming from a room further in. Surrounding the restaurant were small and large tables capable of seating smaller races and dragons as well.

At one of these larger tables, they spotted a group of smaller dragons seated together on the mat-like seats for the dragons to make use of. An earth dragon who was quite larger than both Spyro and Cynder by muscle mass alone, a brown underbelly and wing membranes, taller than a cheetah but not by much...most interesting were the bull-like horns he possessed. There was an electric dragon on his flank, a little shorter and not as built as the earth dragon was. He had vibrantly yellow scales with a white underbelly and wing membranes, tall-reaching horns with hooked curves at the very end. Topping his look off were his yellow eyes.

Next to them were a pair of dragonesses, both taller than the two males present. The closest to the electric drake was a similar shade of yellow, a blue underbelly, and a pair of ram-like horns with fins in the middle and on each side. The other was an ice dragoness, stag-like horns, icy blue all across her entire body and in her wing membranes, similarly colored eyes, and adorned in a silver crest as well as similar jewelry.

“That has to be them…let’s go.” Spyro said with a soft exhale, slowly leading Cynder as they approached the seated dragons. As they got closer, the group seemed to halt whatever conversation they were sharing as their gazes fell upon Spyro and Cynder. The earth dragon stood from his mat, slowly approaching them both. He wasn’t much taller than the purple and black dragons, but he was larger overall.

He seemed to give them an intense stare with his golden eyes, as if he was judging them silently. The two dragons gave him a nervous look, their eyes moving to the other three who gave them impassive looks and seemingly unmoving.

“So…you two dragons…who vanished for three years and return conveniently to save the world…just think you could walk over…join us in our meal?” He asked them in a cold, steely voice.

Cynder gave him a confused glance, while Spyro seemed to shrink at his words some.

“W-well…Terrador said it was a good idea to meet you all…he said this meal was arr-arranged for us to meet…” Spyro nervously stammered, meeting the earth dragon’s intense gaze.

“Whatever issues you have with us, leave him alone! It wasn’t his choice for us to-!” Cynder hissed, taking a defensive stance near Spyro, but they were both cut off and surprised when the earth dragon’s head went up as he began bellowing out a deep laugh.

They both froze…what was this? He just laughed, his own stance easing some. The three dragons at the table began to laugh too, unable to keep straight faces now.

“Of course, the heroes of our generation can join us for a meal!” He said happily, moving to them both and pulling them along with his strong wings! “I’m Granite, captain of the settlement defenders…or I was, the settlement is abandoned now that the war is over. I guess that makes me unemployed now!”

Spyro and Cynder were still coming to terms with Granit’s sudden change in demeanor, the very aura around him and the trio at the table seeming to lighten up in an instant as he led them over to the table.

“You don’t even know how excited he’s been knowing he could pull that joke with someone new.” The ice dragoness said with a smile.

“Yeah…whenever new dragons came to the settlement and joined the guard there, I hit them with that one.” Granite bellowed out another quick laugh, before returning to his spot at the table. “The flashy ice dragoness is Galacion, daughter of Cyril and Nix.”

“Charmed to meet the brave heroes…and an honor to get to know them.” Galacion said with a light smile, giving Spyro in particular a flashy set of fluttering eyes. Cynder’s cheeks seemed to heat up at that, placing a wing over his back possessively.

“The goofy looking one is Storm.” Granite gave the electricity dragon a tooth grin, earning an eyeroll from the other.

“Laugh it up, but the goofy looking one will be running circles around you in particular once we start undergoing guardian apprentice training.” Storm challenged, the two butting horns for a moment before pulling away. Granit let out another chuckle.

“He and I have known each other since we were hatchlings…and we’ve gotten on each other’s nerves ever since then…and I’d have it no other way.” Granit smiled, before turning his attention to the electricity dragoness. “And this is Eletara, Volteer’s daughter.” He draped a wing over her back, tugging her closer to Storm, earning a groan from her.

“And this guy’s giiiiirlfriend…such a cute pair of bookworms.” Granite laughed as she swatted his wing away.

“Did you have to explain it that way you bloody bonehead?!” Eletara hissed, her chest puffing out some as she softly exhaled in annoyance. Her cheeks had gone red-tinted ever so slightly, looking away as Storm draped a wing over her back.

“Leave them alone Granite, let’s address our guests!” Galacion interrupted the earth dragon, who conceded. “Our meal should be out shortly, we haven’t been here for very long…apparently Fitwo’s isn’t known for anything but freshness.”

Spyro and Cynder had eased up some, finally comforted enough to take their own seat at the table next to each other. They were clearly fascinating the group of young dragons!

“Mother always said the purple dragon was going to return…at one point I began to not believe her. I’m glad I was proven wrong.” Eletara said sheepishly, receiving similar nervous reactions from both Spyro and Cynder.

“Well…you’ve introduced yourselves…I guess I’ll start. I’m Spyro…though you likely knew that.” Spyro placed a paw on his golden chest.

“I’m Cynder…again, you could probably guess that.” Cynder said lamely, the two were very inexperienced with small talk.

“So…you two managed to defeat Malefor?” Storm asked suddenly, as though he wasn’t sold on the idea of them managing such a thing.

Spyro was about to speak, but Eletara beat him to it.

“Storm, sweety maybe we shouldn’t ask them about that…it’s only been a week since they had their battle. Let them live a little in the present before they have to continue reliving the battle.” Eletara smiled. Spyro and Cynder let out an almost relieved pair of sighs, exhaling through their nostrils.

“Fine, fine.” Storm held a paw up in surrender. “It will likely come up again, but I’ll leave it be for now.”

Silence fell for a moment, but it was clear the group of dragons were eager to speak with Spyro and Cynder even still! Galacion was the first to speak again, her head leaning down as she studied Cynder.

“You are gorgeous!” Galacion beamed. “Do you do anything for your scales to keep them as pristine as they look?” She asked of the black dragoness, who froze a little.

“I…no, actually…I can’t speak for my past life, but I’ve never done anything for my scales or their complexion…they’re just…naturally like this?” Cynder explained, earning an envious look from Galacion.

“Lucky! I have to apply daily shining oils to keep mine looking the way they do! Oh and the way the red contrasts with the black so wonderfully…some silver jewelry here and there…ohhhh we should go shopping together!” Galacion seemed positively giddy.

“You may wanna ease up there princess, looking like you’ll cause the poor dragoness to explode.” Granite cut in, Galacion finally easing off. Cynder did indeed look a little overwhelmed, though Spyro could tell deep down she was enjoying this.

“Sorry…sorry…and don’t call me princess! It’s just…with my mother and father, I’m always expected to act and carry myself as they see fit! Eletara isn’t as interested in these things as I am…I’m just really excited to have someone else to do girly things with!” Galacion explained, kindly smiling at the pair.

“I’m less interested because designing and beauty care take time out of my studies! Studies which I still find to be very important uses of my time!” Eletare defended with a puff of air from her nostrils, earning an eyeroll from Galacion.

“I understand…though, I’ve never really done those things either.” Cynder said sheepishly.

“Then this will be a good opportunity for us not only bond but explore your interests!” Galacion said happily.

“That sounds…nice.” Cynder said, a smile crossing her features now.

“As for you, Spyro…once they have the academy district repaired, I presume you know we’ll be spending a lot of time training together?” Storm asked, earning a shrug from Spyro.

“I don’t know what to expect, but I figured my training would have to continue…war or no war.” Spyro nodded slowly, earning one from the electric dragon too.

“Indeed…as I mentioned to Granite, we’ll be undergoing the training to earn apprenticeships likely to guardian training. Though, things will be a bit awkward until a new fire guardian can be brought in.” Storm added.

“A…new fire guardian?” Spyro asked, his eyes flickering to the ground some. A week’s time may have passed by, but the loss of Ignitus was still fresh for the purple dragon. Cynder gave him a quick glance and looked at Granite pleadingly, who took quick note of the shift in demeanor.

“Ahhh, Storm- we’re out in public and about to share a meal! Let’s save the whole guardian training and studying talk for another time. Spyro, is it true you were raised by dragonflies?” Granite asked, earning a confused look from Storm. When Storm appeared like he was going to intervene, he was quickly swatted by one of Granite’s club-like tail.

Spyro seemed to tense some, the topic being changed in an instant. It still lingered in his mind, but the tone seemed to shift and Cynder gave Granite an appreciative glance, earning a wink from the earth dragon.

“Yes! I simply must know!” Eletara exclaimed, leaning down against the table, paws resting crossed, giving the purple dragon her full undivided attention.

“Yes.” Spyro nods slowly. “As Ignitus explains it, he sent my egg down the Silver River during the temple raid led by Gaul. On the day I hatched, I was found by dragonflies. They housed me, raised me, and cared for me as one of their own…repeat for sixteen years.” Spyro went into detail on his backstory, Cynder secretly took great interest in it- the story was one of her favorites to be told by the purple dragon.

“For sixteen years you just believed yourself to be a big purple dragonfly?” Granite asked with a small smile crossing his features.

“Well, to be fair even when I discovered I was a dragon, I didn’t know being purple made me special.” Spyro retorted, blushing a little out of embarrassment.

“What was living in the swamp-?” Eletara began to question, but they were interrupted when a glowing light flew down right at Spyro.

“Spyro! This place is loaded with stuff to eat! So many butterflies and other bugs!” Sparx alerted Spyro of his presence, the purple dragon giving his brother a questioning look.

“Sparx, I told you to behave yourself!” Spyro said pointedly, earning a pair of little arms raised in surrender. Granite, Galacion, and Storm looked more than surprised as the tiny dragonfly jumped into view above their table. Eletara looked positively elated however, never having seen one of Sparx’s kind before!

“I did, I did! Just may have treated myself a little too well.” Sparx said with a grin, before a hand covered his mouth! He seemed to struggle holding something back.

“Oh, a dragonfly! How fascinating, tell me little one how was living in the-?” Eletara tried again.

She was interrupted once more as Sparx let out a loud, unflattering burp!

Spyro buried his head under his paws in embarrassment, Cynder glaring at the dragonfly in slight disgust as he seemed completely unbothered.

“Sparx!” Cynder hissed, making the dragonfly snap a little. “If you haven’t noticed, we’re in the presence of others!” Her words had Sparx looking around, finding other dragons staring down at him incredulously. Granite just gave him an odd, questioning look. Galacion like Cynder gave him a lightly disgusted look that marked her disapproval. Eletara looked as though she had been slapped…but Storm just gave a goofy grin.

“Nice.” Storm let out a laugh, growing louder when Eletara began swatting his shoulder with a paw! “Hey come on, it’s funny!” He chortled.

“Drakes…” Galacion muttered, earning an offended look from Spyro and Granite.

“Don’t rope me in with him!” Granite retorted, defending himself from the generalization.

“What, I can’t pay my compliments to the chef? Well…I guess that only works if there’s actually a chef.” Sparx rubbed his chin as if deep in thought. Spyro finally emerged from his paws, giving an apologetic look to the others gathered around the table.

“Everyone, this is my brother, Sparx.” Spyro introduced the dragonfly, who turned to give them all a mock cordial bow. “Now, Sparx…I believe Eletara wished to ask you a question.” Spyro added, turning his eyes back to the electric dragoness, giving her a confirming nod.

“Oh! Yes, before…that…I wanted to ask, what was it like living in the swamp?” Eletara asked with a gleeful smile. “What are dragonfly homes like? Were you ever attacked during the war? How did your people govern themselves?”

“Woah woah woah…lady, gonna need you to slow down, I’m not much good with rapid fire questions…now where to start, living in the swamp? Peaceful…more peaceful than anything that happened to us ever since we left the swamp.” Sparx shot Spyro a look, earning a shrug from the purple dragon.

“You followed me.” Spyro gave him an eyeroll, earning another shrug in response from Sparx.

“Anyway…peaceful. Our homes were simple, kinda like hallowed out hives…fatty here needed his own little burrow when he outgrew our family’s home.” He jabbed at Spyro, earning a puff of smoke from the purple dragon’s nostril.

“Says the one who just got done gorging themselves on who knows how many bugs.” Cynder jabs, poking the dragonfly’s stomach with one of her sharp claws.

“Touchy touchy…anyway…we were never attacked, but when Spyro got into a bit of trouble with some apes outside the swamp I had to swoop in and rescue him!” Sparx threw a pair of punches forward, earning another unimpressed look from Spyro.

Galacion and Cynder exchanged knowing looks, meanwhile Granite was clearly hesitant. Eletara couldn’t help but watch the dragonfly talk in clear awe.

“Sparx…” Spyro huffed, giving his brother an evil glare. “…tell the truth.” Sparx rolled his eyes.

“Fine…Spyro and I were on a walk outside the swamp and-.”

“Sparx!” Spyro interrupted, the stare he was giving the dragonfly didn’t cease.

“Fine! You’re no fun…” Sparx sighed, rubbing his arm. “I was taunting Spyro after he saved me from a frog weed…he chased me outside of the dragonfly village.”

“And?” Spyro asked slowly, earning another puffing sigh from the dragonfly.

“And…I got myself caught by apes…who intended to use me as a lantern…I think, anyway. Or maybe they just really wanted to squish me.” Sparx rubbed his chin again.

“…and?” Spyro asked one more time, a grin crossing his features now.

“…and Spyro saved me from the apes.” Sparx huffed, crossing his arms. “I never get to be the hero in our stories.”

“You were brave when we went to the Well of Souls. It may have been me fighting, but you still played a part there.” Spyro’s glare softened and he instead gave the dragonfly a warm smile.

“Yeah well…I couldn’t let you go in there alone. It was dark…you’d have just gotten lost.” Sparx muttered, before flying to the purple dragon’s side. “So…yeah, no real attacks though. As for the last question? We…didn’t ‘govern’.” He’d air quote. “We just had an elder…and if there was ever a spat or anything they’d sort it out.”

“Fascinating…I’ll have to make notes on this later!” Eletara grinned, glancing at the sky as she rambled on.

“Why do you care about dragonflies so much?” Cynder asked her, earning a baffled look from Eletara.

“How could one not be fascinated?! To study and learn from one of the least studied races of the dragon realm! They were often overlooked for their small presence in the world, but if I am to be Warfang’s chief scholar one day, I’ll need to do everything in my power to achieve it! Studying even the most detracted races of our lands could prove to be all the difference!” Eletara explained it all in vivid detail.

“You’re twenty-three…and you have how many hundreds of years to achieve your goal?” Galacion asked with a smirk, earning an annoyed huff from Eletara.

“It is never too early to start preparing for your dream occupation! If you wish to be ice guardian one day, you’d benefit from an early start!” Eletara shot back.

That caught Spyro and Cynder’s attention.

“Females can be guardians?” Cynder asked, earning a smile from Galaction. It was a reasonable enough question to ask.

“Traditionally, no, males were guardians. But the guardians explained to us that dragons our age are going to be rare…but we’re the right age to begin apprenticeship once the academy is repaired. Father says that due to my training not being impeded during the war, I’m slated for contention to candidacy. If another ice dragon my age roughly steps forward and can match me, they could claim apprenticeship. But…let’s just say that I’m confident in my abilities.” Galacion nodded her head. “Plus…Terrador said our numbers are too stretched to turn noses due to tradition. They say that as times have changed, so too must the guardians.”

“Makes sense…with the war over, maybe old traditions like that will be phased out.” Spyro smiled, Cynder nodding in agreement.

“As for Storm and I, we’re in the same boat as Galacion. We’re pretty well slated for apprenticeship unless other viable candidates make themselves known.” Granite added, earning a smirk from Storm. “If it weren’t for that, I’d already be in the guard.”

“Alright mighty dragons!” A new voice interrupted their chatter, drawing their gazes to a mole carrying a platter far too large to be comfortable for such a small being! Regardless of his size, he smoothly carried and set it down on the table before each of them, revealing a few rows of steaming-hot cooked fish. It was wrapped in what looked like bread almost, some seasoning garnishing each piece.

“Your meal is served! Fried fish seasoned with our finest salts and parsley! Enjoy my lords and ladies!” The mole bowed, before retreating into the restaurant from whence he came.

The dragons all seemed to respond well to the lovely spell of the meal, their mouths watering some. Granite was the first to reach forward but hesitated as his golden eyes fell back on Spyro and Cynder.

“Heroes first.” Granite said with a grin, gesturing for Spyro and Cynder to have first pick. Spyro and Cynder gave each other a warm smile, before returning the looks of affection to the earth dragon as the reached down with their paws to grasp for the fish.

Sparx had to turn away in that instant.

“Bleh…meat.” He shuddered a little, not wishing to watch the young dragons feast upon the well-prepared fish.

Spyro and Cynder, however, felt something new building within themselves deep down. Acceptance from dragons their age…to have friends aside from each other for the first time in what felt like ages to them both.

Chapter Text

Two days had passed since Spyro and Cynder had acquainted themselves with Granite’s group. Life seemed to fly by in the city for the past two days, simply spending time with dragons close to their age. Most of their time had been spent simply walking the grounds of the park around the base of the central tower. Most of their time together was simply storytelling. Granite, Galacion, Storm, and Eletara especially were nothing less than ecstatic to hear Spyro and Cynder’s collective story.

Spyro and Cynder skipped over the details of their story…such as what really happened at the Well of Souls. The guardians hadn’t yet been informed of the truth there, and the two had no intention of doing so with anyone yet. Learning about their new friends had been equally interesting to Spyro and Cynder, even though the other four didn’t think so. Storm’s story was rather cut and dry…Spyro and Cynder caught onto the possibility that he was hiding the full truth from them quickly. Everyone had their secrets, and they didn’t wish to push him. He and Granite had been raised by some of the settlement’s elders, Storm’s parents having gone missing a year after his egg hatched.

Granite’s wasn’t a very long story either. Though, his parents’ fate was determined…killed during the war. By whom, he couldn’t say as the elders had kept the full truth from him until the day which he was ready to know the full extent of what happened to his family. He and Storm had been noticed at a young age for their elemental prowess and were to be ‘watched’ and prepared for Guardian training one day by Volteer and Terrador, before the two were captured during the war. Both seemed to be less interested in telling their own stories, Cynder understood it less, but Spyro caught on quickly that it’s simply how they were taught to handle their emotions. Ignitus had always told him that a fault of older dragon traditions deemed that males shouldn’t be concerned with their own personal feelings…instead, solely worry about the feelings of those around them.

Eletara’s story was simple enough and she was glad to tell it. How Volteer and Tempest had an egg during the war before his capture at the paws of the Terror of the Skies before returning after six years. She explained that ever since she was a hatchling, she cared more for her studies than physical training…though she wasn’t unimpressive physically. Galacion on the other hand was a protégé child of Cyril and Nix, raised to one day claim the title Guardian of Ice from her father once she completed the training, or at the very least become the Chief Diplomat like her mother later in life.

Their stories had both Cynder and Spyro asking questions about themselves, however.

Where did they play into the future? When the fighting could finally come to an end and the purple dragon was no longer needed to help piece the world back together…what would they do? For now, they were simply content with the duties they’d been given. At dawn, they’d leave for the old temple and begin their mission to find more dragons.

Cynder simply lay curled up on their suite’s balcony, enjoying the cool breeze flowing over her ebony scales. There was a sweet scent in the air, pleasing her senses every time she breathed it in. Perhaps a mole baker was preparing a delicacy…who knew? The entire city was so new to her for sure…but she couldn’t deny that it fascinated her. Walls of stone, towering buildings where dragons could reside, patrol routes, markets and taverns…so many things she never knew could exist in a war torn world.

Spyro and Sparx were absent from the suite, the two unrelated brothers being taken out for a day of what Granite and Storm called ‘stupid fun’. She could only guess what that implied, but she was more than happy to let Spyro go and experience things with other males. They couldn’t be together every second of every day, much as she’d like to have him present…even now, pressed up against her as she sunbathed on their suite’s balcony.

Cynder saw it as a healthy arrangement, for them to spend some time apart. No change meant stagnation for the two young dragons new to being a couple. There would always be some time for them both to spend time with one another, they had no intention of letting their own time together be compromised.

Besides, Galacion and Eletara would be by soon for a ‘girl’s day out’ before the two groups met back up for dinner in the market that evening…she didn’t imagine Spryo would be overly thrilled at the notion of shopping. Though, Cynder imagined he’d be fine with it so long as she was present.

Galacion and Eletara were both new to Cynder, having other dragoness friends for the first time in her entire life. Eletara’s interest in knowledge far outstripped her own, though Cynder figured that would come in handy down the road when they had shared studies. Galacion on the other hand seemed more than eager to have another friend who she could potentially share interests with. Cynder had zero experience with anything Galacion was interested in, but she was more than willing to give it all a shot.

The former Terror of the Skies had been greeted with many new concepts in the past few days. She had never really been given gifts, but she and Spyro were being given them almost daily by the moles in the city. She had never really taken time to admire flowers…so many vibrant colors and wonderful scents on display with the bundles of them brought to their home as they slept or were away for the day.

But most wonderful of all these revelations was the sweets!

Cynder for all her nineteen years alive had never had the chance to sample such wonderful tasting delicacies. From the juicy fruits that made her mouth water some, or the chocolates that had her simply carried away by the sweet and rich flavors! She made a mental note to not have too much of this as she knew it would be unhealthy…but she’d stolen a bite or two over the course of the past two days. Spyro knew of these delicacies but wasn’t very experienced with them, living in the swamp meant what they ate was limited to bugs and some fruit.

The city itself was an adventure in itself to Cynder and Spyro. Cynder was only used to dark lairs and places that screamed ‘evil and broody’. Spyro was used to the calm solitude of the swamp as well as the simplicity that came with such. Still…they both couldn’t deny that living in this massive titan of a city felt like they had a sense of belonging there. Like this was truly their home all along and everything else had just been a distant dream and nothing else. This was home now, no matter how they actually felt about it. Neither could say that was actually a bad thing, the city felt almost…roomy being dragons. It felt small now, but when the time came for them to grow into full adults, this city would likely feel just the right size for them.

Cynder’s muscles jolted some as she heard a knock come at the door, turning her long neck from the balcony to note where the sound had come from. She’d get up and walk over to the door, breathing a small strand of wind at the door for the elemental lock to disappear. Once she slid it open, she was greeted by the presence of Galacion and Eletara.

“Ready for our day out?” Galacion asked with a beaming smile, a similar one on Eletara’s face as well. Galacion had on a different set of silver jewelry than the first time they had met…and the day before. Cynder just offered a nod as she’d step out of the suite, turning to seal the elemental lock once more.

“So…what are we doing?” Cynder asked, earning a wider smirk from Galacion, who was positively giddy to explore the market.

“Well…since you’ve never really had the experience…me and Eletara are going to treat you to some casual shopping!” Galacion smiled.

“I…don’t actually have any money.” Cynder chuckled sheepishly, rubbing the back of her neck.

“Oh! Blast me…I forgot completely, the guardians have a sizable fund in the bank for you and Spyro both. We can go there first so you can collect it…though I don’t imagine we’ll actually be buying anything. Besides…if you see something you really like, you could give Spyro the hint…could make for a really romantic gift.” Galacion said with a knowing smirk.

“Wait we never actually said we were…how could you tell? Are we that easy to ready?” Cynder asked a bit nervously, wondering how easy it was to tell with her and Spyro’s relation to one another.

“Like an open book…don’t worry, it’s cute.” Eletara said with a kind smile. Eletara wore a leather satchel that looked around her torso and over her chest with two different belts. There were several rolled up pieces of paper in the belt and it seemed to shake with something inside it. Cynder noted Galacion had on a similar pouch, nowhere near as functional as Eletara’s and lacking the pockets and extra compartments of the electric dragoness’ own.

“So…we’re shopping…but also not shopping?” Cynder asked, not quite understanding the premise. Galacion and Eletara shared a pair of giggling laughs.

“Shopping doesn’t just mean we go to buy things…sometimes half the fun in it is simply browsing!” Galacion explained. “But we’re burning daylight, come along! We’ve got only so long before we’re supposed to meet the boys for dinner! I do love keeping to my schedule.” Galacion would lead them down the corridor and off the ledge leading down into the city, the trio of dragonesses flying off to the market district as a group.

“This is what you guys do for fun?” Spyro questioned seriously as he looked down into the running water beneath them. He currently stood on a wall hovering over one of the canals that connected throughout the entire city.

“I’m surprised you didn’t have anything like this back in the swamp! Hornfall is one of our favorites from just messing around in the settlement!” Granite said cheerfully.

“Well in the swamp we kept it simple…like…hide and seek or tag. Normal games for kids…not giving ourselves brain damage…at least voluntarily.” Sparx countered, earning a smirk from the earth dragon.

“It’ll be fun, you and me first Spyro! Let’s see how the mighty purple dragon fares against I!” Storm grinned, taking a position a short distance away from the purple dragon now.

“Remind me about the rules?” Spyro asked, earning a chuckle from Granite.

“Simple like we said…charge each other and whoever falls into the water loses. No elements being used and no cheap shots. Just horn to horn, see who can get the better of the other by strength or leverage.” Granite explained it once more for Spyro. “There’s not really a final winner per say…just that whoever doesn’t end up in the water as much is considered the winner.”

“I see…very well then. let’s give this a shot.” Spyro affirmed, giving them both a nod. Granite would give a chortle as he began flying near the wall where the other dragons stood opposing from each other.

“On the count of three, you charge!” Granite called out. Spyro nervously braced his muscles for the countdown, Storm doing the same as they prepared to charge.

“One…two…” Granite called out, the two tensing up some more. Storm seemed to give Spyro a grin, as if testing the purple dragon to see if he’d flinch. Spyro was new to this game, but even he knew flinching would be taken advantage of if he wasn’t careful. “…three!”

The two were off, heads and horns lowered as they ran right at each other! The purple and electric dragons rapidly approached each other, their muscles bracing for the inevitable impact when it came! The two were on each other in mere seconds, and with a loud clash of horns they’d crash into one another!

Storm immediately tried to use his height advantage over Spyro to push the purple dragon off the ledge and into the water, but Spyro’s combination of muscle and lower center of gravity actually proved to be a challenge for the electric dragon!

“Drive, drive! Keep at it!” Granite called out to them both, refereeing them both to ensure the rules were followed. Spyro continued to push as much as he could, but without any experience with this game he remained at a disadvantage. He was quickly learning the overall premise of how it worked as he continued to push at Storm, but the other dragon was still driving harder as he used his experience with the game to push back against Spyro.

“Come on Spy, push him back!” Sparx called out to Spyro!

Spyro continued to drive back as hard as he could, but with the early advantage Storm had been given, it wasn’t long before Spyro felt his paws start to give way. His claws scraped against the stone as he felt himself being forced towards one side which led down into the water! Spyro defiantly pushed back, groaning some as he tried with all his might to regain his footing, but alas it was for naught as Storm forced Spyro over the edge! With a loud splash, Spyro hit the water before reemerging with a gasp!

“Not bad for your first, you tend to always lose the first attempt.” Storm called down to Spyro as he floated at the surface. Sparx flew down to be faced with the purple dragon, giving him a cheeky grin.

“Really knocked you down hard there oh mighty hero! If you had that extra weight you lost, then maybe wouldn’t have been so easy to push.” Sparx jested, earning an annoyed sigh from Spyro.

“Thanks for the moral support.” Spyro said flatly, sending a splash at the dragonfly who narrowly managed to avoid the tide as it roared past him.

“Hey low blow purple boy, you know what water does to my wings!” Sparx barks back at his adoptive brother, earning a cheeky grin from Spyro in return now. Sparx just rolled his eyes before flying up to watch Storm and Granite.

“My turn…get set on your end Storm.” Granite flew down as he settled into the spot where Spyro had once lined up against Storm. The electric dragon looked far more focused now, faced with the larger earth dragon now.

“Here we go…” Storm muttered, dragging a paw against the stone beneath him as Granite got set to charge.

“Ready?” Granite called out, earning a nod from Storm as Spyro watched from the water below. “One…two…three!”

The two were off, horns pointed down as the two charged right at one another! Storm’s hooked horns clacked loudly into Granite’s bull-like horns that faced forward! The electric dragon pushed down hard to try and use whatever leverage he could manage to overpower the earth dragon, but Spyro could see that Granite simply refused to be moved by the electric dragon.

Granite would plant his paws down firmly, giving Storm a hard push as he used his forward pointed horns to really hook in Storm’s own, forcing the electric dragon to tilt his head to match the direction as to avoid being tossed out! Granite took advantage of Storm being forced to turn and pivot his head to overpower his best friend with sheer muscle alone. With his size and muscle advantage over Storm, it wasn’t long before the electric dragon teetered on the edge of the wall!

All around, they had gathered a small crowd of moles, a couple cheetahs, and even some members of the city’s dragon guard – all had come to give their attention to the trio of dragons engaging in hornfall. Some were even cheering on one dragon or the other, the rest simply waiting in silence to see who triumphed over the other.

Granite just chuckled as he gave Storm another push, the electricity dragon unable to truly push back as the earth dragon had him pushed to the very edge! With a powerful shove, he sent Storm over the edge with almost seamless form and strength. Storm plummeted into the water next to Spyro, splashing the purple dragon as he landed hard next to him.

Storm would reemerge with a gasp, inhaling fresh air once more. He gave Spyro a toothy grin once he regained his composure, the two glancing up as they heard a few applauding cries to the earth dragon for his triumph.

“I should have said…Granite is pretty much the undisputed champion of this game.” Storm says with a toothy grin, earning a gulp from Spyro. “And you get to face him next…how lucky for you.”

Spyro just let out a groan as they lifted out of the water, wings carrying them out as they’d return to the wall near Granite who was looking quite pleased with himself.

“You gave it a good first attempt Spyro, like I said the first round someone plays is always a bit rough.” Granite explained, getting set on the other end of the wall to prepare for their next round against Spyro.

“This is gonna hurt later for you, isn’t it?” Sparx asked, earning a laugh from Granite.

“Only a little…probably.” The earth dragon said confidently, earning a nervous look from Spyro as they lined up against each other. Spyro shook the water from his scales, sliding paws over the large wall to prepare for the charge. Storm would fly from the wall so he could referee for the duo now with Sparx at his side.

“On three you two! One…two…” Storm trailed off, letting the air between the two dragons grow tense after several long moments. The earth dragon’s muscles seemed to tense, while Spyro’s entire body seemed to twitch a little. “…three!” Storm finally called out!

The two immediately charged, Spyro’s horns tilting low some as they angled up at Granite, the earth dragon’s horns tilting down as they rapidly approached one another! It wasn’t long before the two collided in a thunderous clash of horns! Spyro’s tall golden horns clashed with Granite’s forward-facing horns! They two pushed hard, but Spyro was immediately put at a disadvantage by the other dragon’s superior strength.

“Come on Spy, don’t let him push you around!” Sparx called out, raising a fist for his brother as he valiantly tried to push Granite from his firm footing! Spyro desperately tried to push back against Granite, but the earth dragon just wouldn’t budge and was determined to drive Spyro off the wall!

Spyro was determined to not go out so easily, his claws extending some as they scraped against the stone beneath his paws! The purple dragon pushed hard back against Granite, finally managing to force the earth dragon to give up a few steps worth of distance, giving Spyro a moment of much needed maneuvering room as he pushed back against Granite.

Storm was shocked to see Spyro had managed to actually force Granite to give up some ground, but his moment of victory was quickly spoiled when the earth dragon put all his weight into his next shove and sent Spyro tumbling off of the wall and down into the water just as he had fallen when faced with Storm! Spyro sputtered as he emerged from the water, letting out a groan as he rolled one of his shoulders.

Granite peaked his head over the edge of the wall, offering Spyro a knowing smile.

“Good job for your second round, took Storm a lot of tries to force me to give up ground. Work on your overall strength and you’ll be able to knock me off the wall someday.” Granite said kindly. “You’ve got a good head start for a dragon your age, but it will deteriorate quickly if you can’t keep up with your peers…I’m sure Terrador will have you on a regular workout schedule once training starts.

Spyro mentally dreaded the thought of such vigorous training he’d likely be faced with. Though, that was a matter for another time. He couldn’t worry about the future and what it held for himself and Cynder, content to live in the present for now.

“Get back on up here, we’ve got three more rounds to do!” Granite called down to Spyro as he lifted himself out of the water with a flap of his wings.

“Three? Hoo boy…somebody’s gonna be sore tomorrow. “Sparx said in a joking manner, earning another unimpressed scoff from Spyro.

“Alright…let’s do this then.” Spyro said with a concerned tone, worried that the game wasn’t necessarily safe for them to be playing.

Deep down though, he couldn’t deny that he was actually having fun playing the rather brutal yet simple game. It felt more natural of a game for someone his size and faced with dragons of his size or age. It felt right to finally spend time with dragons his age and live somewhat of a normal life outside of the likely dangerous missions they’d be undertaking to assist the current dragon crisis their people were faced with.

Spyro simply braced for the next round, preparing his already aching muscles for another go at hornfall against Storm, who was all too happy to face off against Spyro once more.

“Ready?!” Granite called out, earning a nod from them both, to which he’d nod back in return. “One…two…three!” The earth dragon cheered.

Cynder eyed over rows of robes, sashes, and cloaks designed for dragons to wear comfortably. Each served a different purpose and were meant for different occasions. There were such accessories which were meant for ceremonies, formal events, dances…funerals.

Her thoughts went to Ignitus for a moment. Terrador said they would have a ceremony for the late fire guardian, likely the earth dragons were concocting some memorial for Ignitus to present for the funeral. The guardians had also explained how they wished to wait for the search parties to return to Warfang before they held the funeral. Volteer insisted that it would be best for the dragons to all prepare for their missions without having to worry about funeral preparations.

She was worried about the mission…the implications it had if they failed to find more dragons were grim. The consequences it could have on her for her past, it almost scared the black dragoness. The Terror of the Skies wasn’t the cause for the dragon race being pushed to the brink, but not even the guardians could say that she wasn’t a big reason for it. Some older dragons, despite the guardians’ acceptance of her, would likely demand consequences down the road.

Making friends would help in the long run should there be a demand for her to be punished for her past actions. Anyone who would stand by her in the worst-case scenarios was valuable to have by her side.

Her eyes scanned over some accessories intended for weddings.

Her eyes narrowed at the thought of weddings.

‘What would a wedding be like?’ She thought silently, eyeing the various robes and cloaks lining the racks she was browsing, hearing some voices droning in the backdrop behind her as she walked down the row.

The mental images of her and Spyro together in a wedding flashed in her mind, her cheeks heating up in that instant! The dragoness quickly moved on from this section of the store, going around the corner to find Galacion and Eletara talking together.

“I just think you’d look lovely in a cloak like this!” Galacion pouted, holding a purple cloak with a golden border and trim. Eletara didn’t look as pleased with the cloak.

“I look quite alright without a cloak! They’re impractical and it’s overtly flashy!” The electricity dragoness countered, clearly not as excited by the idea of wearing a cloak. “Besides, have you ever tried to fly with one attached? It completely messes up with the wind flow to wings!”

“The practicality isn’t why you wear it! Presentation is a powerful thing and I simply think you’d look good in it!” Galacion replied, hanging the cloak back up on the rack she’d pulled it from, folding it neatly before turning back to spot Cynder. “Oh! Find anything you like Cynder?” She asked with a kind smile.

“Oh, no…nothing causally, anyway. I may come here to get regalia for events in the future if they happen…but I don’t imagine that will happen anytime soon.” Cynder said softly, glancing around at the accessories all around them.

“Ah well, onto the next shop!” Galacion smiled, leading the trio outside together, giving their thanks to the shopkeeper, a mole sat behind the counter who waved to the three dragonesses as they walked out of their establishment. Cynder gave one last look at the sign reading ‘Mystic Threads’, a brown sign with yellow painted script. The shop had some of the mole’s crafts on display outside on racks set up for browsing…in visual range of the owner of course. Nobody would snatch and run with one without them seeing.

The next shop was one designed with glass, though one of the windows was broken- likely damaged during the siege of the city days prior. The repairs would likely be focused elsewhere and would reach the more residential areas of the city. Priority went to the military and academy district which received the brunt of the damage and were in a worse off state. In due time the city would be back to normal and in full swing.

The story had a gray sign with several ring-like designs placed upon it with gold paint, labeled ‘Illustrious Crafts’. From her first glance she could tell that this was likely a jewelry shop, spotting shining creations form outside as the trio approached.

“Oh, I already love this shop!” Galacion beamed as they slid through the door of the shop, the three passing inside. The mole stood from their seat, positively giddy looking to have potential customers!

“Ah, good afternoon my ladies…pleasure to have you all in my humble store!” The mole bowed as he spoke, his voice a big raspy and lower pitched than most moles. “Please, browse my goods fair dragonesses-!” His voice hitched as his inky-black eyes fell on Cynder. She noted his gaze, it was one of bewilderment and shock.

“Why…bless me! One of our legendary heroes in my store! The mighty Cynder, one of the two slayers of Malefor!” He stepped out from behind his counter. “To you two ladies, I offer a discount to any pieces you see. But to you, lady Cynder, I simply must give you a gift for your service to the world!” The shop owner scurried forth, seemingly studying the black dragoness.

“Oh, no I couldn’t just have you just give something-!” Cynder began, but Galacion gave her a knowing look.

“Come now Cynder, he won’t be the first nor last to give you or Spyro a gift. To the moles, rewards for valor is a part of their culture in relation to the dragons who defend the city.” Galacion explained, earning a shrug from Eletara.

“You might as well just get used to it for a couple weeks, that’s likely how long they’ll be at it.” Eletara offered an apologetic grin to Cynder, who still looked rather puzzled. “You’ll be praised as a hero for a while, you and Spyro both.”

“Soak it in Cynder, you and Spyro are heroes…enjoy it while it lasts. There’s much work to be done when tomorrow hits, and this will all seem a distant memory in no time unfortunately.” Galacion said logically, earning a sigh and nod from the black dragoness.

“Very well…I humbly accept your gift…and will likely pay you back for it later down the line.” Cynder bowed her horns to the mole, who grinned widely!

“Wonderful, now just you wait there! I have something just perfect for you…my crafts are made with mole artisanry, and dragon magics!” He said proudly, running out of a door and into another room behind the counter where he had started upon their arrival.

Cynder just felt her face heat up some, she may have been opposed to just being showered in gifts, but deep down it warmed her heart to be appreciated for something. In all her life, she had never hoped to be treated in such a fashion.

“Oh, this is lovely…” Galacion said softly as she approached a glass cabinet with several necklaces and chokers lined up side by side. Gold, silver, steel, and bronze-colored trinkets crafted by the mole so expertly. Cynder couldn’t deny that the mole was talented, though she expected that would be a reoccurring fact with the moles. Even with her limited knowledge, the craftsmanship of the moles was legendary…the entire city was the greatest case and point for their skill and work ethic.

Galacion eyed a silver chain necklace with a ruby in the center, surrounded by what almost looked like a trio of flowery petals made from the same material. There were four chains, likely designed to help keep such a trinket secured to the dragon wearing it. “It’s too bad that they don’t have something like this made with a sapphire inlayed.” Galacion smiled.

Cynder made a mental note of that. She didn’t really understand why such a thing stayed in her head, but it would remain there as a passive memory. It was good to learn and remember things her new friends said.

“I…can’t deny, that would look lovely. I could see myself wearing something similar.” Eletara eyed the necklace carefully. “Though red doesn’t look very good on me…” Eletara shied away, her gaze befalling a circled of gold with amethyst gems inlayed that melded with the circlet itself and seemed to contrast perfectly. “Do you think I’d look alright with this on over my horns?” She asked, earning a smile from Galacion and a curious look from Cynder.

“It’s most certainly your color I think, purple contrasts beautifully with yellow, I think. Though with the fins along your horns I think it would be rather tricky for you to wear.” Galacion smiled, Eletara looking back at it almost longingly.

Cynder wondered about it a moment before she spoke.

“I think it would look beautiful on you, Eletara.” Cynder added her own two cents with a smile. Eletara’s look she gave Cynder was one of appreciation and perhaps some joy at being complimented by someone who wasn’t just Storm. Galacion complimented her in her own way, but it was a little impersonal, and Cynder felt it was just nice to give her a simpler one.

They browsed a little more of the store, finding rings and anklets as well as other jeweled accessories in the glass display cases. Soon though, they were interrupted when the mole came rushing out of his back room with a wooden box in hand!

“Here miss Cynder, come have a look at these.” The mole beckoned her over happily, opening the box for Cynder to gaze upon what lay inside the box. Cynder sat down on her haunches, waiting to get a good look at it as the mole turned the open side of the box for her to finally see.

What lay inside the box shocked her!

There was a set of what looked like five large rings in the box. Each one was silver and designed with intricate weaving branch-like and feather designs in the metal, emerald gems inlayed in each one on each opposing end on all four sides. She felt her lower lip and jaw quiver ever so slightly as she studied them.

“They’re…a bit large for me, actually.” Cynder frowned, a bit saddened as she studied the beautiful pieces of jewelry.

“Ah but watch my lady!” He’d retrieve one of the anklets and would unlatch it so it would open. “Place your arm in it, trust in me!”

Cynder would slowly do so, curious as to the logic behind his request. Her right forepaw slid forward until one of her wrists was comfortably sliding against the cool metal. The mole would slowly close the piece around her arm and as soon as the latch sealed- a light glow flickered in the emeralds of the anklet! In a matter of seconds, Cynder watched as it shrunk ever so slightly and hugged her black scales!

“It…it’s like my old choker and anklets!” She gasped, looking at the piece of jewelry with a curious gaze. “This is dragon magic inherently…not just Malefor’s creations.”

“Oh of course not, dragons taught moles how to create such things long ago. We’ve been using their magic to create such things ever since. The enchantment enables the jewelry to fit any and all sizes…no matter how grown up you are, every piece fits the wearer as good as the first time they put it on.” The shop owner said with a smile. “And now my lady I give them to you.”

“Yeah…we knew of the magic; we just wanted you to find out for yourself that you need not worry about such a thing.” Galacion smiled, she would know of course, Cynder thought. Galacion seemed to have different jewelry each time they met; it made sense that there would be a similar magic used for her own.

“I…I have to give you something in return.” Cynder said softly, peeling her eyes away from the anklet on her right forepaw. “This is…too kind of a gesture.”

The shopkeeper just folded his tiny hands behind his back.

“My young boy and girls were so scared when the world seemingly came apart beneath our very feet…but then it was all over almost as quickly as it had begun. Now, they rest soundly in their beds every night, lady Cynder. That’s more payment than anyone could ever bless me with.” The owner told his short tale, smiling up at her again. “It’s the least I can do to repay you…and if Spyro ever fancies himself something from this store, or a gift of equal quality, myself or my cousin who helps run the forge in the market would be more than glad to reward him too.”

Cynder felt her lower lip quiver once more, touched by the mole’s kind words.

“Go on then, put’em on!” The mole said cheerfully to which Cynder would proceed with putting on the other three anklets, each one conforming to her smaller size and hugging her scales. The last to be put on was the tail cuff which she’d close around her tail, feeling it shrink down ever so slightly to fit her comfortably.

“Wow…and I thought silver was my color.” Galacion marveled.

“Oh, they look beautiful on you!” Eletara beamed to which Cynder could only blush ever so slightly as she returns her gaze to the show oener.

“What is your name?” She asked of the mole, to which he bowed his head.

“Ders, my lady. It has been an honor to serve you in my store today.” Ders said as he returned to sitting behind his counter.

“Thank you Ders…for the lovely gift.” Cynder bowed her horned head to him before turning back to Eletara and Galacion.

“I’m sure Spyro will approve…come on then! The sun is going down and we still have dinner with the boys before we must settle in for the mission tomorrow!” Galacion said quickly, leading them back to the door to which she’d open and allow the other two to move past her.

“Hopefully they’ve been keeping out of trouble all day.” Eletara chuckled, shaking her head ever so slightly. “Knowing my Storm…that’s the last thing they did.”

“I’m sure Spyro will reign him in some.” Galacion said with a smirk as she stepped out of the shop after them.

“You don’t know Storm and Granite well enough then when they’re together and not actively on duty.” Eletara added with another laugh.

“Hopefully they aren’t a bad influence on Spyro.” Cynder jested, earning giggles from the other two.

“Those two together with free time? They most certainly will.” Eletara glanced back at Cynder with a knowing look.

Spyro and Sparx followed after Granite and Storm as they flew down into the market district near the central park and base of Warfang’s tower. They knew not where the restaurant they were dining at tonight was located, trusting in the earth and electricy dragons to lead them to their destination.

The park was a bit empty, though that was to be expected as the hour was starting to grow late. The moles were turning in for the evening and returning home or seeking supper in the city like the members of the dragon guard from the daytime rotations. It wasn’t long before they spotted one eatery which seemed untouched by the damage inflicted upon the rest of the city! This shocked Spyro and Sparx as they had witnessed the earth golem fall to the surface not far from their current spot when they had brought down the monster.

They came to the building, seeing several moles and even some dragons inside. A mole stood outside with a rolled-up piece of paper and a feather pen in both hands. The four dragons and dragonfly would approach the mole, who glanced up at them.

“Are you three with the party of six? Lady Galacion mentioned the purple dragon would be accompanying your group.” The mole asked of Spyro, Granite and Storm, bowing his head as he unfurled the scroll to take some notes.

“That’s us, yes.” Granite nodded his head gently.

“Right this way then, the other half of your group has already arrived.” The greeter gestured for them to follow. Granite and Storm followed after immediately, but Spyro noted the lack of Sparx’s presence as he moved to enter the building behind the others. He glanced back and registered the dragonfly hovering with their arms crossed.

“There’s no way I’m gonna just float around and watch a bunch of dragons gorge themselves on a bunch of meat…at least not on an empty stomach. But the park’s got a lot of grub for the picking.” Sparx grinned as he spotted various bugs flying around the lush, green park.

“If you’re sure then I won’t stop you from going your own way, just don’t cause trouble in the park with any of the moles.” Spyro smiled, a bit sad Sparx wasn’t joining him. He couldn’t blame Sparx for not being eager to join them, he couldn’t eat what they ate…in fact, the very notion of eating meat grossed Sparx out. With Spyro and Cynder alone he could tolerate it, but with an entire group of dragons dining…he thought he’d be nothing less than sick.

This was also a way of getting used to the city without having Sparx by his side every second of the day as well…mental practice for the purple dragon. Life was hard to imagine without having his glowing brother by his side, but Spyro would have to get used to the feeling likely. He shuddered some at the thought of not having Sparx in the city, shaking it off as he watched the dragonfly give him a mock salute before zipping off with a buzzing of his wings, leaving Spyro alone before he followed Granite and Storm. He took note of the sign above the door which read ‘Tower Park Dining’.

When they walked past the large doors leading inside, they were greeted by lovely glass chandeliers hanging from the ceiling above, red streamers decorating the windows on each side of the building. The wooden floors were layered with red carpet connecting throughout the entire restaurant. They followed the mole past several tables, a couple cheetahs and plenty of moles seated. They passed by some of the city guard dragons feasting together and imbibing in spirits. There were proper seats for the smaller races, but for dragons there were larger tables with what almost looked like large velvet-layered benches designed for them to sit upon.

“And here you are, your dinner will be out soon!” The mole said cheerfully, gesturing the three over to a table where they spotted Galacion, Eletara and Cynder seated already and waiting for them.

Granite took a seat at the head of the table parallel to Galacion, while Storm moved next to Eletara and draped a wing over her back, hugging close to her as he enjoyed her presence and company. Spyro mirrored Storm but halted in his steps as he took immediate note of something.

Cynder was wearing jewelry!

She wore anklets on her forearms and her hindlegs, her tail too! The silver anklets and tail-cuff shined and contrasted against her dark ebony scales, emeralds twinkling brightly. Cynder’s eyes met him, her beautiful green eyes twinkling just as bright as the actual emeralds in her silver jewelry which really brought out the color of both her scales and her eyes.

All in all, if Spyro’s jaw was left hanging open ever so slightly.

Cynder noticed this too, her cheeks heating up in response. She smiled gently, gesturing for the purple dragon to take his seat next to her. Spyro would do so, slowly approaching her and sitting down on the large, elongated bench-like seat, his tail swaying ever so slightly.

“Notice something different?” Cynder asked slyly, grinning as the purple dragon sat down next to her, their tail curling with Spyro’s own as they pressed against each other ever so slightly.

“Yeah…you look great.” Spyro said with a gentle smile, draping a wing over her back as she leaned against him some. “Reminds me of the older anklets and jewelry you used to wear…just much nicer.”

“Much nicer…and not marks of being controlled.” Cynder affirmed with a nod of her head, addressing the others as they sat together. “Galacion and Eletara shared a lovely afternoon of browsing and shopping together…it was a lot of fun!”

“I’m glad you had fun then! Granite and Storm introduced me to their favorite game, hornfall. I…didn’t do very well.” He grins sheepishly.

“Hornfall?” Cynder asked softly, turning her gaze to Granite and Storm, who were both rubbing the backs of their necks now.

“I knew they’d show it to Spyro- it’s a rather blunt and straightforward game the dragons in our settlement invented to pass the time. Mostly the males played it…” Eletara explained, grinning a little. Storm just looked away as she gave him a knowing glare.

“Straightforward is one word for it…they’re lucky dragon skulls are hard, otherwise they’d most assuredly have brain damage from playing it so often.” Galacion said with a smirk.

“Yeah…essentially two dragons try to horn charge each other from a surface and into water below. Spyro gave Storm a few close calls, but I won every time.” Granite explained the game, Cynder giving Spyro a quizzical look.

“Sounds…not like something you’d be interested in, actually.” Cynder commented, perking a brow at Spyro. “I never really pictured you playing games of strength over wits.”

“Well, I’ve never played a proper dragon game so I thought it would be a good idea to give it a shot, you know?” Spyro chuckled. “I did learn something from it though.”

“What’s that?” Cynder asked curiously, still a bit concerned about Spyro’s state as she finally noted there was some bruising around his horns, tracing one of her claws around them.

“That charging at Granite is a bad idea…felt like charging into a wall of solid stone.” Spyro chuckled, earning a nervous chortle from both Granite and Storm in return.

“Perhaps that will coerce you to not charge at him again.” Cynder grinned, walloping Spyro on the head with her paw some, mostly for playfulness.

Before more talk could be held, two moles came out of the kitchens with platters lined with platters. They’d come over to their table, setting the platters down and greeting the dragons to the view of their meal: deer steaks seasoned with salts and peppers as well as garlic mixed butter melting atop the still sizzling meat. The very sight of the offered meals had everyone’s mouths watering; poor Storm looked as if he would start drooling!

“Your dinner is served my lords and ladies, enjoy!” One of the moles exclaimed in a cheerful tone, the two retreating into the kitchen from whence they came. Granite gave everyone gathered around the table a kind smile.

“To new friendships and an important mission, we dine. Let’s eat!” He said welcomingly, beckoning for everyone to dig in.

Spyro and Cynder smiled in response before they’d dug into their meal. They knew not what their mission held, but they’d do it a lot more confidently knowing they had dragons they could call friends by their side.

Chapter Text

Spyro tasted only the metallic, coppery taste of blood on his tongue, grimacing some as he quickly looked around to take in his surroundings. He found only darkness surrounding him from every end. He glanced down and studied his forepaws, seeing them coated in dark, deep red blood as it dripped from his claws. It was then he saw Ignitus lying on the ground before him, unmoving and lined with lacerations across his red and crimson scales. Spyro felt what felt like a beating drum begin to steadily fill his head, picking up in speed and growing louder with every passing second.

“Spyro…why…?” Ignitus asked, tilting his near lifeless eyes to meet Spyro. “We believed in you…” Ignitus trailed off, their head falling back to the ground as what strength he had left faltered. He felt another presence approach him from the darkness, feeling a strong paw slide itself over Spyro’s shoulder. When he looked up, he was brought eye to eye with none other than Malefor. The ancient purple dragon loomed over Spyro with an ominous grin that made Spyro quiver in fear at the very sight of it. He held Spyro to his side in an almost comforting manner as they both stood over the fallen Ignitus.

“Well don’t just leave him suffering, Spyro…after all, it was YOU who failed them. It was you who failed all of them. They praised you as a hero…but in their darkest hour, you superseded my expectations.” Malefor grinned wickedly, gesturing for Spyro to look back. When Spyro’s gaze fell back on Ignitus, he was now gazing upon the lifeless form of the other three guardians. Dozens of other dragons surrounded, fallen moles and cheetahs surrounded them now too. Spyro could even make out Hunter in the gloomy mist which resided over the fallen.

“No…no I didn’t do this! I couldn’t…I wouldn’t!” Spyro shot back. “I’d never…! I won’t believe it, I won’t!” He muttered, shivering as his paws shook in fear. When he looked back to Malefor where he had last been, he saw only darkness. Spyro desperately darted his gaze to try and spot the ancient purple dragon…instead he now spotted the bodies of apes surrounding all the fallen dragons, moles, and cheetahs. He began to desperately try and back away, but no matter how far he tried to move the dead just seemed to follow him whatever distance he traveled.

Spyro.

Spyro…

Spyro could hear the drumming noise grow louder, his earholes ringing with the sound now as the darkness all around him seemed to close in. His tail tucked between his legs, wings curling, head shrinking down low.

“Of course, it was you Spyro…after all…it was US who failed them!” Spyro fearfully looked up, recognizing the new voice as his own. Malefor’s voice had become dangerously close to his own…though, more cruel sounding. When Spyro’s gaze fell upon the source of the voice, he cried out in fear as he was brought eye to eye with those glowing white eyes…and himself. His alternate form was pitch black in scale color and their gold membranes and belly were a sickly brown.

Spyro!

Spyro looked down, looking at his blood-soaked forepaws once more, gasping as he was brought to the realization that his own purple scales had faded into that same inky black color.

“No, this isn’t me!” Spyro cried out, trying to run away from the fallen figures all around him, once again failing to gain any true distance from the fallen. Instead, all he could hear was the maniacal laugh of Malefor in his ears, ringing alongside that repeating drum that shook him to the very core as he tried to run away from it all.

Spyro!

“Run from it as much as you like, Spyro…in the end, I’ll always be here.” Malefor said, sounding as though he was nowhere and everywhere all at once. No matter how far he ran all he could hear was the sound of the ancient purple dragon’s laugh as it just seemed to chase Spyro however far he ran. The darkness all around him seemed to close in and he felt as though he was suffocating! His scales felt deathly cold, as though he was in Dante’s Freezer all over again and he was dropped into ice to the point it caused him pain.

“SPYRO!” A voice caused Spyro’s eyes to fly open, his alerted gaze finding Cynder as he shook and feverishly thrashed. He felt as though his heart was going to shoot out of his chest from how rapidly it was beating. Spyro clutched a paw to his torso, feeling it nearly rapping against his scales.

“I can’t- I won’t- got to keep running…!” Spyro cried out as he tried to take in his surroundings, feeling a pair of soft but firm paws on his shoulder. Finally, his gaze met Cynder as she desperately tried to shake him from his panicked state!

“Spyro bro snap out of it! You’re alright, you’re in the city!” Sparx tried to get through to his brother, but it was clear his efforts were in vain as Spyro failed to register his dragonfly brother’s words.

“Spyro, Spyro! Love, please calm down, it was just a bad dream!” She held him close, tightly securing him to keep him from thrashing further. Spyro, however, barely taking note of her as he continued to desperately draw breath, his heart still rapidly beating as he seemingly didn’t hear her words.

Cynder gave him a worried look as she quickly threw her forepaws around him, wings closing around his back as she hugged close to Spyro. She leaned close to Spyro, head grazing against his as she spoke softly to him.

“Spyro love…it’s just us, Cynder and Sparx…you’re safe in our suite. It’s okay Spyro…you’re okay…” She whispered softly to him. Sparx flew down and hovered into Spyro’s view, a concerned look on his face.

“Hey man it’s us…it was just a nightmare.” Sparx buzzed near the purple dragon some, trying to comfort his adoptive dragon brother as best he could.

Hearing Cynder’s soft words and feeling her hold him so close, combined with Sparx’s own words, he felt his heart start to steadily slow down from the rapid drumbeat it had been to the more calm and normal thumping…until finally he could no longer feel it beating in his head. He continued to shiver in her grasp though, shaking and still shaken up.

After several long moments of comforting words and imbibing Cynder’s warmth, she’d pull away and meet his gaze now with Sparx floating nearby. Her face was one of exhaustion mixed with deep concern for him. It was then Spyro took note of the late hour, dawn had yet to come but it wasn’t far off as the sky was a lighter shade of blue and no longer pitch black.

“It…was more than just a bad dream, wasn’t it?” She asked sadly, to which Spyro said nothing before slowly sliding away from her grasp, slipping down from their bed and walking to their washroom.

When he slid the door open, he turned to their sink basin, pulling the chain to pour water forth to which he’d reach forth with one of his forepaws. He rubbed the icy cold water over his scales, trying to come to senses with reality once again. Cynder and Sparx weren’t far behind as they entered the washroom behind Spyro, the black dragoness reaching to slowly rub his back with her gentle paw.

“It…felt like more than just a dream…” Spyro shuddered out some, comforted by both of them being present with him.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Cynder asked him softly, sliding up next to Spyro as she draped a wing over his back. “It might help…I haven’t seen you remotely like this except when you woke from the dream you had in the forbidden tunnel.”

“I…no, actually…I’d rather not talk about it…at least, not yet.” Spyro said softly, trying not to offend her. Sparx didn’t quite get it, but Cynder knew all too well that sharing the memories of vivid nightmares wasn’t the most pleasant way to try and cope with the feelings left behind.

“Alright…but you know I’ll hear you out should you wish to.” Cynder said before licking his cheek and giving him a tight, squeezing hug. “I know how rough nightmares can be.”

“We’re both here bro, you talk to us about this stuff when you’re ready.” Sparx tried his best to console his brother, voice not resembling one of jests and mockery and instead softness and comfort. Spyro continued to wash his face some before glancing up into the mirror, intently staring into his eyes to meet his own gaze.

“Come back to bed when you’re ready.” Cynder said gently, giving him a final hug before she left him in the washroom to make peace with the rapid thoughts swirling around in his head. Sparx would fly down and give him a pat on the back before zipping back into the main room, leaving Spyro alone in the dimly lit washroom with only himself and his reflection.

Spyro stared into the mirror for quite some time, and nearly did a double take when he was positive his reflection suddenly changed to resemble his darker form. Those piercing white eyes meeting his amethyst ones…mirroring him perfectly. Spyro quickly shook his head, clutching it some before he took another dip into the cold water.

When his head lifted back up, his reflection still looked as if nothing had just occurred. He looked intently into the mirror, blinking his eyes rapidly to see if there would be any change in his reflection.

Nothing.

It frustrated him to no end, not knowing the true extent of the other being seemingly living his own body. He had to get to the bottom of this mystery in due time, what had transpired in the Well of Souls was nothing less than a tragic accident with unforetold consequences to the purple dragon which he was still coming to terms with and discovering. Such power could be abused…and he wished to keep such a threat far away from Warfang, far away from Cynder and Sparx…to keep them safe.

Spyro would slowly leave the washroom, trying to not make too much noise as he slid the door shut behind him. His gaze fell upon the glass door leading to the balcony, noting the color of the sky again. A lovely midnight blue which marked the slow turn of the night into the beginning stages of morning.

“How…how long was I actually asleep?” Spyro asked as he climbed up onto the bed beside Cynder, flatly laying back down next to the black dragoness as she draped a wing over his back. One of her paws slid forth and intertwined with his own, sharp claws tracing against his own as she warmly hugged close to the purple dragon.

“We were out pretty quickly once we got home from dinner with the others…I’d say we’ve been out for about five hours or so, which means dawn a few hours off still…I know it’s easier said than done but try to get some more sleep.” Cynder leaned over, brushing her nuzzle against his own. He breathed deeply, shuddering a little as he exhaled the long inhale. Sparx fluttered over the two before he returned to his perch above the dying down fireplace.

“Gonna be a long day come dawn, but it’ll be good to get out of this huge city for a bit.” Sparx said quietly, crossing his arms behind his head as he lounged. Spyro gave Sparx a soft nod as his only response, only somewhat registering what Sparx had said before he inhaled and exhaled once more, trying to relax into sleep against Cynder’s side.

He knew from the start sleep was likely wishful thinking now, his mind still far too active for him to reliably drift off to sleep even with Cynder by his side. Still, he knew it was best to try, Sparx was right after all…dawn would come all to early and they had a long mission ahead of them when they met with their mission’s party venturing out past the borders of Warfang. He couldn’t shake the mental image of his claws caked in blood, Ignitus and the other guardians on the ground all around him, Malefor in his head and laughing at his inner conflict.

Seeing the darker form he possessed, the alter ego which seemed to continue eluding Spyro even now…it remained vivid in his head until what felt like ages passed and he could slowly drift off back to sleep. His head would tilt to the side some as he rested against Cynder, simply doing his best to ease back into a comfortable sleep next to her. His mind was blank going forward…but occasionally broken with a mental image of blinding white eyes staring at him before his dreams went to mere blackness once more.

Dawn had come quickly for Warfang…at least, that’s how it felt to everyone but Spyro. Following his nightmare, his mind had been clouded and he lost many hours of sleep in the process. He was almost excited to get on with the mission, not wishing to wake Cynder and Sparx again as they slept in the same suite. When they heard the messenger arrive at their door, he was up quicker than them both as he prepared for the long day ahead. Spyro would check their mirror once more, just in case…his reflection was all he saw, no longer plagued by the visions of his alter-ego it seemed.

Cynder was ready shortly after him, Sparx had no preparations to make however, the trio making a stop by the council kitchens for a quick breakfast. Soup for Spyro and Cynder while Sparx was given some simple steamed herbs. It wasn’t the same as bugs for the dragonfly, but he could tolerate it and it gave him the energy he’d need for the day. Spyro and Cynder couldn’t have a big meal, however, the flight would be a decent distance and it was best to not to make such a flight on a full stomach at the risk of causing cramps or potential flight sickness.

When they arrived at the council chamber’s doors, they’d be greeted by the sight of everyone else gathered already. Terrador, Cyril, Volteer, and Tempest standing before Nix and their party. Cynder and Spyro gave each other nervous looks as they landed before the chambers.

“Sorry we’re late- had a rough night.” Spyro apologized to the guardians, earning a sympathetic look from Terrador and Volteer. Cyril showed mild annoyance, but the look Nix gave him caused his expression to soften.

“Fret not Spyro, we’re waiting for Hunter’s party to arrive as well. Your party won’t set out until they arrive.” Terrador explained, and as if he had been summoned, Hunter ran up the stairs with a group of cheetahs and a trio of moles at his back in tow, bowing quickly to the gathered dragons and dragonfly.

“Apologies Terrador, some of our comrades were a bit tricky to locate in the mole homes.” Hunter apologized; bow strapped to his back, sword on his hip. The other cheetahs with Hunter were armed with spears and adorned in light travel gear with some basic padding armor beneath their gear. The three moles following them were geared in that familiar brown and gold buckled armor, crossbows in their hands with dagger-like swords hanging on their hips.

Spyro, Cynder and Sparx took their place with the group of dragons, resting next to Granite and the others. Cynder took note of Eletara and Galacion, spotting that the electricity dragoness didn’t have her book and scroll satchels…while Galacion was not wearing any jewelry bar anklets and a tail cuff like her own. Cynder had to give Galacion credit for this, she loved her jewelry but didn’t go above the bare minimum when embarking on a mission.

The four dragon guards traveling with them weren’t currently adorned in their armor, likely not wishing to make such a long flight in heavy gear which would only slow them down. They consisted of two ice dragons, an earth dragon, and a fire dragon at the forefront.

“Fret not Hunter…now, we’re all here so let’s go over travel gear. For the dragons going to the old temple, we’ve packed each of you travel bags to carry your equipment easily. In these bags we’ve packed you all basic dried rations, kindling and means to provide light should you need it, waterskins, and light armor plates. The armor isn’t heavy and won’t protect you from more large creatures like trolls, but against basic arms wielded by the grublins you may run into, it shall suit you better than no armor.” Terrador droned on, the others listening to him as he explained everything in these satchels. A group of moles would carry the satchels forward before the group of dragons.

“We’ve prepared similar but smaller bags for your group Hunter.” Cyril would add, addressing a group of moles carrying the leather travel packs to his own party. The cheetah bowed his head and gestured for the members of his group to start equipping the provided backpacks.

“Now, for your group Hunter, you are to be the voice of our people should you find dragons hidden in the ancient grove, and you shall lead them in combat should enemies befall you. Do not eat the food or game from there…due to our limited knowledge on the region and the tendency for the water there to grow undrinkable it would be best for you to ration your own food and water as best you can.” Volteer would elaborate further. “Simply put, don’t go through your rations and water too quickly, and be sure to gather what you need to replenish your supplies before reaching the grove.” Volteer took a breath after his long-winded explanation and instruction to the group of cheetahs and few moles.

“I simply came to wish you all a safe farewell on your quest.” Tempest smiled, giving Eletara a knowing look as her daughter came forth to give her and Volteer both an embracing hug. “Be safe dear…” She said softly.

“On this mission for the dragons to the temple, should you find any dragons on your quest, Nix will handle the negotiations. Should the worst come to pass, and you need to fight, command will fall to Granite, Spyro, Cynder and Ulris.” Cyril would elaborate now, gesturing to the fire dragon at the head of the four guards accompanying him. “This is Ulris…by the way, our lead candidate to take up the open guard captain position.”

The fire dragon stepped forward a bit more, bowing his head to those gathered. He didn’t look old despite his size surpassing the other young dragons present. He had a set of four horns, identical to each other with the lower set being a bit smaller than the lead pair, extending back behind his head. His wing membranes and underbelly were a soft beige color, matching his deep brown eyes.

“I will do everything in my power to keep you all safe, lady Nix.” He bowed his head, lowering himself before the older ice dragoness. He turned his gaze to Spyro, Cynder and Granite. “And it will be an honor to venture out beyond the city’s walls with each of you.” He spoke softly, their voice was rich but strong.

“And you, Ulris.” Granite said firmly, his golden eyes meeting the fire dragon’s own.

“Hopefully, the swamp and region near the old dragon temple won’t even have grublin activity. The apes are gone…the only conflict you should run into is wildlife, easily avoided.” Terrador said with his deep, baritone voice. “Fly swiftly to the temple and set up camp within, Spyro and Sparx will go to the dragonflies to see if they have any information regarding dragons in the region. How they handle this step will be theirs to decide…he, Sparx, and Cynder know the region around the temple best. When you arrive, follow their guidance and you will be home in no time.”

Hunter and his fellows quickly threw on their travel packs. Spyro, Cynder, Granite, Eletara, Storm, Galacion, and all the other dragons in their group would do the same. The pair of satchels hung down in front of both of their hind legs.

“Now go…be swift and cautious. All our hopes lie in your efforts…good luck.” Terrador ushered both groups off in that instant. Hunter followed by his cheetahs and the crossbow-armed moles would start down the stairs, their destination being the gate of Warfang.

“Come along dears, the dragon temple awaits!” Nix called out, gesturing for the others to follow her as her massive wings unfolded to carry her off the ground. Galacion and Granite were the next to follow after the older ice dragoness, then went Storm and Eletara. Spyro gave Cynder and Sparx a final, nervous glance.

“Ready to go back to where this all started?” He asked, earning a nervous chuckle from Sparx in return.

“You know all our time traveling, I always said I wanted nothing more than to go home…yet I find myself only feeling nervous to see them again.” Sparx said with a sideways grin.

“I haven’t seen the temple in three years now…” Cynder said quietly, giving Spyro a soft smile. “…I’m ready to go back to the first place I called home.”

“Then let’s be off…we need to reach the swamp in time to meet with the elder.” Spyro said firmly, lifting off with his wings with Cynder and Sparx in tow. Upon the trio turning to follow the rest of their group with the dragon guards led by Ulris holding up the rear, they could hear Terrador call to them.

“Good luck to you all! Ancestors look after each of you!” Terrador boomed out, his voice resonating down the sides of the tower and far enough for the group of dragons in flight to hear.

And so, both groups were off. Hunter along with his cheetahs and moles were off for the ancient grove to the south-west of Warfang once they reached the gate. Spyro, Cynder, Sparx and their entire group of dragons soared high in the sky as they flew to the west leading back to the swamp regions.

The group of dragons had been flying nonstop for straight hours with no rest stops along the way to the old dragon temple. From the green flatlands surrounding Warfang and bordering the Burned Lands, until they could spot the eternally autumn-colored trees and hills surrounding the swamp come into view in the distance. The early morning sun had risen far higher and threatening to reach midday in a few hours, but they wouldn’t have much further to travel once they passed the line of autumn colors.

“I…need a break!” Storm called out near the rear of the formation following behind Nix.

“My men could use a moment to rest as well!” Ulris called from the rear as well, his wings looking as though they were starting to waver in their soaring ability. There was a good breeze on the wind and if they were showing signs of slowing down, they’d need the break.

“Spyro!” Nix called from the head of the formation, earning his and Cynder’s attention. After so long in the air, Sparx had taken up riding in one of their satchels to avoid growing too tired too quickly. “Do you think we should take respite now? Or should we press on further?!” She called back to him.

He turned to Cynder, to hear her own counsel. She took note of this and thought about it for a moment.

“I’m one of the strongest flyers here…I could go on for a while longer, but I know some can’t fly as long as me…so perhaps it’s best we take a short break.” Cynder commented to Spyro, to which he’d offer a gentle nod in response.

“If she thinks we could use a break, then it would likely be best!” Spyro called ahead, to which Nix would nod before diving down, spotting a stony overlook which would work for their party to stop and rest. It was riddled with greenery but that wouldn’t cause an issue for the dragons to rest a moment. The group touched down and the guards immediately went about breaking out their waterskins from the satchels.

“Remember men, ration it…we don’t know how long we’ll be gone, nor when we’ll get access to running water.” Ulris reminded them, earning a few moping sounds from them as they only took a few sips from their waterskins.

Storm immediately fell onto his belly, wings draped out at both sides as he heavily inhaled and exhaled. Granite and Galacion weren’t far as Eletara went to his side, showing concern for the electric dragon.

Spyro give him a curious look, Cynder’s expression not being very different…Storm took notice.

“I was just…never the strongest flyer really…” He defended himself, to which Spyro and Cynder gave each other unconvinced looks.

“He’s fine, really.” Eletara deflected their concerns, leaning down to whisper something to the drake which led to him rising onto his haunches finally. He’d reach down and retrieve the waterskin from his satchel, taking a few gulps from it as he pulled the stopper free.

“Storm was always just more concerned with his studies than practice. He can do it well, but not for extended periods.” Granite explained, shedding some more light on the matter.

“He did well, if that’s the case.” Cynder said softly as she went to their side now, Spyro by her as they sat down, folding their wings to let them finally rest. “If he isn’t a strong flyer, he just flew for nearly four hours without needing to stop in between.”

Her words brought an almost relieved smile to Storm’s face as the others nodded in agreement. Sparx would dart out of Spyro’s satchel, stretching his arms a moment,

“Maaaan it gets cold up here when you guys are flying as fast as you can.” The dragonfly said as he rubbed his arms to get them warm once more. Spyro simply rolled his eyes as the dragonfly made his presence known once more.

Nix would approach Spyro now, her footfalls heavier than the rest of theirs as she was nearly double their size.

“How far would you say we are from the temple now?” She asked Spyro, a curious look to those cyan eyes. Spyro could tell she didn’t like being far from Warfang without a clear idea as to where she was going.

“From the temple? I’d give it another half hour or so of flying…once we pass the divider leading to the brown and red autumn shades, that means we’re close. We’ll see the temple once we go a little further…from there, the swamp is about an hour’s march…or a half hour flight. I’d recommend we get rest in the temple and don’t start our search until tomorrow.” Spyro explained, his voice low but firm.

“I see, your plan is sound. While the party rests in the temple, you three venture to the swamp…get what information you can, and we begin our search tomorrow.” She repeated it all for her own sake, giving a firm nod. “Very good.” Nix finished, stepping over to the ledge to where she sits down, sharing no further words for the moment.

“I think her straight face could give Kane a run for his money.” Sparx jested, to which Cynder gave him an glare.

“Don’t mind mother, she’s just deep in thought at the moment. That’s just how her mind works…Volteer and Tempest speak a thousand words per minute, but she thinks a thousand thoughts at the same pace.” Galacion explained. “It’s similar as to how I think, just more refined by time.” Upon finishing her statement, Galacion would tread over, sitting by her mother’s side as they both sat and admired the view.

“Storm dear, are you feeling better?” Eletara asked, glancing into his eyes.

“Fine, I’m fine now…I just needed to let my wings rest.” Storm defended himself, his voice soft as he gave her a reassuring look.

“So Spyro…the temple, this was your old stomping ground?” Granite asked, changing the subject from where it had gone with Nix, to which Spyro gave him a firm nod.

“Yeah…Sparx and I anyway. When we left the swamp, we found Ignitus below the temple in a cave. For close to a year after I freed Cynder, we called it home.” Spyro said, his gaze going to Cynder for a moment. She returned the gesture and smiled softly.

“Hard to imagine that Malefor just had to look in the most unlikely place to find his downfall.” Granite thought aloud, unable to deny the irony that Spyro had been underneath the Dark Master and Gaul’s very gaze the entire time.

“Weird how some things work out…” Spyro thought about it for a moment, glancing past the overlook, scanning over the autumn colors in the distance.

“Something on your mind?” Cynder asked him softly, noting his thoughtful gaze.

“Just…feels like a lifetime since we’ve been back. I haven’t seen our parents…well, my adoptive parents…in three years now. I hope they’re alright…I just keep hoping the war missed them.” Spyro muttered, giving a longing look towards their destination.

“If I know home…and we both do…they got a little spooked and went on with their lives.” Sparx said with a grin. “Pretty much nothing ever managed to faze the dragonflies.”

“I know…but deep down I don’t know if I could ever call it home again. Mom and dad are there…but the swamp itself only feels like a memory to me.” Spyro explained, earning a nod in return from Cynder.

“I understand…but I think it will also be good for you to see it again, through new and more experienced eyes. To see where your journey really began again…I think it will be almost enlightening to you.” She says with a gentle smile. “Besides…I’m excited to meet your parents and hear embarrassing stories about you both!”

That had Spyro and Sparx sharing nervous glances between each other, but the moment wasn’t to last as Nix extended her wings once again.

“We’ve rested long enough, when next we land, it will be in the old temple! Let’s get moving, I’d like to reach the temple by midday or only a little later!” Nix called out, interrupting any of the chatter happening around them.

As a group, they would lift off the ground with their powerful wings, carrying themselves off the stone overlook and back into the sky once again.

The midday sun had finally gone a bit past its peak, signaling that they would soon enter the early afternoon when the group finally spotted the old dragon temple. Storm was especially relieved when it became apparent that they’d land soon.

“Hopefully the old perch still retrains it’s ability to open upon magical contact!” Nix called back to the others as they flew down to the initial landing.

It felt strange to Spyro, seeing the temple again. It always looked abandoned, though the current state of the temple was rather shoddy as the last time they had been present, it was attacked by the apes and several sections were damaged. Sparx seemed unbothered by the notion of returning, more anxious to see the swamp than anything likely…Cynder looked indifferent, however, clearly the memory of her abrupt escape from the temple that fateful night weighed on her.

He’d ask her about it after they landed, for now they had to ensure the others made it safely to the temple.

The old balcony of the temple was just as grand as Spyro remembered it being. Damaged, but still grand. He always liked to picture the temple before the raid that forced his egg to be sent down the silver river...before the dragons seemed to lose all hopes of victory against the dark armies. The great door leading inside was still sealed shut, but the wards were still alight with energy.

Storm and Eletara landed, the dragoness supporting him as he heavily inhaled and exhaled again, wings stretching some as they were finally able to properly rest. The dragon guards seemed fine, Granite and Galacion as well. All simply took a moment to rest as the older ice dragoness walked up to the door, inhaling deeply before unleashing a foggy haze of frost from her maw! The ice mist struck the door, the great wards and lock seeming to go ablaze with life before it began to slowly pull open, allowing entry into the temple.

“Ah…to be here again.” Nix said softly, glancing around the old walls of the central chamber at the peak of the temple.

“You’ve been here before?” Spyro asked, earning a slow nod from Nix.

“Indeed, I have young dragon, before your egg came to the temple, Galacion hatched here. As did Eletara, Storm and Granite. Not long after though, the mass call to go into hiding was sent out from the guardians…and so we took our children and hid them.” Nix told the story, tracing a paw over the old walls. “There were a few other dragons who hatched at roughly the same time…but we’ve yet to find any more of them.”

“Spyro’s egg had unaccounted for parents…was there any chance at finding a record of who brought my egg to the temple?” Cynder asked, earning a hesitant look from the older ice dragoness. Her expression shifted to one of gloom and regret.

“Only the guardians could answer that, dear one. I doubt they would keep that from you if they knew.” Nix answered, tracing a sharp claw over the walls ever so slightly as she entered the temple. The guards entered next, Granite and Galacion not far after while they followed after Nix.

“The old place almost feels…ominous.” Sparx commented, rubbing his chin gently. “Dunno why…just can’t place it.”

Spyro silently agreed with the dragonfly’s assessment…for some reason, the very air within the temple seemed to feel…stiff.

Lifeless.

Spyro spotted the pool of visions as they stepped inside, halting in his steps as the others passed by him.

All except Cynder.

“Spyro…?” She asked softly, gaining his attention after he stared at the dark pool some more.

“I just…half expected to walk in and see him. Just…here, waiting for us. Just like when I’d come back from our adventures across the kingdom to save the guardians.” Spyro sighed, passing further into the temple as he’d go to the pool of visions to glance down into it, only visited by his reflection for now.

He and Ignitus had both shared the ability to gain visions from the pool, though his wasn’t practiced and he couldn’t do it seamlessly as the fire guardian once had.

Cynder crept to his side, sliding against him to share warmth while the other dragons entered the temple on either side of the duo and Sparx. Storm gave them a curious look and seemed as though he planned to approach them but was quickly stopped when Granite placed a strong paw on the electric dragon’s shoulder.

“Leave them be for now, we can’t begin to comprehend what they’re feeling right now…let them have their time.” Granite explained, his voice soft and consoling as he and Eletara would lead them onward to where the guards and Nix were assembling. Galacion would give them a sympathetic look before following the group to where her mother had them meeting.

“I know he’s gone…it still just hasn’t really registered.” Spyro said sadly, earning a hug from Cynder as she held him close.

“I know…I wish he were here with us.” She responded softly, keeping her voice low as to prevent them from being listened to. Thankfully, Nix had every intention to have everyone else’s attention.

The rest of their group gathered around the ice dragoness, satchels being set aside and neatly kept out of the way of their walking space. Ulris and his fellow guards would reside to her left flank while Granite, Galacion, Storm, and Eletara were to her right.

“Everyone! Listen up!” She’d raise her voice, waiting for everyone to turn their gazes to her.

“The wilderness around the temple has likely overgrown and run wild. Nobody ventures into the lower levels alone, though I advise against traversing the rest of the temple anyway. We don’t know how structurally stable the lower levels are. Nobody ventures outside the temple in the forests surrounding the lower levels, for the nights are dangerous here according to the guardians. For now, I recommend you all get comfortable for the day. Spyro and Cynder will set out soon to find the dragonflies before we begin our search tomorrow.” Nix laid out their plan, head held high as she explained it to the other dragons.

Spyro returned Cynder’s warm embrace a moment longer, before pulling away to give her a quick smile, turning his gaze back to Nix now.

“We’ll set out soon, Nix…we just need a moment to catch our breath before we set out for the swamp.” Spyro bowed his head, earning a bow in return from Nix as she went about settling in by the pool of visions.

“Oh, I simply must see the dragonfly village! I’d love to see it for myself and personally!” Eletara exclaimed excitedly, moving to approach Spyro and Cynder likely to request to join them. Galacion was quick to intervene with the other young dragoness, gently holding her in place.

“This is something Spyro, Cynder, and Sparx need to do on their own Eletara…I’m sure you’ll have all the chances you want to study the dragonflies at another time.” Galaxion said softly, her words not appeasing Eletara as her shoulders slumped.

“Fine…who knows when the opportune moment will arise once again, but another time it shall be.” Eletara moped, earning a snicker and quick hug from Galacion before the ice dragoness walked off to share words with her mother.

Spyro gave the ice dragoness a thankful nod as she passed by not too far from them, just getting a knowing smile in response from Galacion.

Sparx would speak first once he was sure the others were out of listening range a few moments later, buzzing in between the purple and black dragons with a low buzz of his wings.

“I’ve got a feeling mom’s gonna have both of our hides for how long we’ve been gone.” Sparx said sheepishly, earning a nod in agreement from Spyro.

“Question is whose will she get after first?” Spyro asked with a nervous chuckle, earning a grin and eyeroll from Cynder as she listened to the brothers and their banter.

Chapter Text

Spyro, Cynder, and Sparx had left the dragon temple after everyone had been given ample time to settle in. The closer the trio flew down the Silver River, the more they began to remember. More and more came back to them…they could tell they were getting close. The mushrooms that could rival some of the stone buildings in Warfang, the frogweed plants, the walls of vines, and the brown grass that littered the damp ground all around them.

Cynder could only marvel at how different this place was from everywhere else they had been to. Different yet…simple. They had been to great catacombs built into a mountain, the center of all evil, the crystalline plains of Concurrent Skies, the Burned Lands, the Valley of Avalar, Warfang itself, and so many other places. Yet this place felt so disconnected from it all.

So simple.

After three years and several months to the day, Spyro and Sparx were looking upon a familiar sight which they had previously questioned if they’d ever see it again. The simple rounded beehive-like buildings scattered throughout the open grove of large mushrooms that had seemingly not moved an inch since last Spyro and Sparx had seen them. Each was lit up by small glowing stones which made sure they’d not be encased in darkness. Each one was placed perfectly a web-like network that surrounded the largest of these constructs which marked their meeting chamber and the home of the Elder.

They were home.

Cynder couldn’t help but notice something however…that being the lack of dragonflies.

“Am I missing something? Where is everyone?” She asked softly, earning a chuckle from Spyro.

“They likely saw dragons enter the swamp and went into hiding as a safety precaution…I can’t blame them, the swamp almost never got visitors even before I was born.” Spyro explained, giving Sparx a nod as his dragonfly brother would dart a bit forward, cupping his hands around his mouth.

“Hey everyone! It’s just us, Sparx and Spyro!” Sparx yelled at the top of his lungs!

Silence followed them for several long moments, the trio noticing that the lights inside the beehive-like homes flickering ever so slightly as there was clear movement going on. They couldn’t deny the feeling of being watched…and many pairs of eyes began to gaze upon them from the village.

Before more words could be said, a cry of cheers and joyous cries rang out as the doors of the homes all flew open in unison! From the homes came a horde of dragonflies of various colors and shapes as they flew from their abodes, all laughing and cheering as they swarmed the trio. Spyro and Sparx just laughed together as the dragonflies swarmed them both, though the dragonflies didn’t swarm Cynder…they at least knew not to swam over strangers who they didn’t wish to overwhelm with such a welcome.

“Welcome home you two!” One voice came. “You’ve both grown so much!” Another rang out, the two receiving similar treatment from the dragonflies as they danced around Sparx and Spyro both.

“It’s good to be home, but where are mom and dad?!” Sparx asked with a smile, before he noticed a blue colored dragonfly charge right at him, pulling him into a tight hug! “Reina?!” He laughed out as they embraced the dragonfly.

“It’s wonderful to see you again Sparx!” The dragonfly said aloud, their voice feminine. She had a gentle face, and she was a little thinner than Sparx- a silvery-blue glow to them. “Your mum and dad are out with the gatherers today; they should be home soon before dinner though.”

Cynder had never seen Sparx directly embrace anyone, a brow perking up, which Spyro noticed. He’d dismiss himself from the joyous crowd around him as he approached her to be heard finally.

“Sorry…dragonflies are a bit easily excited.” Spyro grinned toothily, Cynder couldn’t help but give a little laugh in response.

“Who’s that with Sparx?” She asked, Spyro glanced back to see who he was with, a smirk crossing his snout.

“Ah, that would be Reina. She was Sparx’s best friend here, besides me at least. Dragonflies are social creatures, best friends for our people are best friends for life…no matter how long they’re apart.”

The sentiment made Cynder smile, enjoying the wholesome nature of dragonflies and their way of life. Spyro would gesture for her to follow, smiling up at Reina as they approached her and Sparx.

“It’s good to see you again Reina.” He smiled up at her, to which she’d dive down and hug his snout some!

“Spyro! It’s wonderful to see you too! After three years we feared you two walked from the swamp and lost your way back.” She grinned down at the purple dragon. “Oh, your parents will be simply ecstatic to see you both back!”

“It is indeed wonderful to be back, Reina, but we have to speak with Elder Spherin, is he home?” Spyro asked gently, earning a quick nod from her in response.

“Mhm! I’m sure grandfather would love to know you’re both back!” She smiled, gesturing to the largest home in the center of the village. “Do you want me to take you to him?” She asks.

“No, we’ll go ourselves. Sparx, why don’t you stay here and socialize with the others for a while? When mom and dad come home, tell them I’m back too.” Spyro said, earning a smile from Sparx.

“Alright bro, you go do your thing…I’ve got a lot of catching up to do.” Sparx said with a cheerful laugh. Cynder had never seen Sparx look as happy as he did now, not quite used to seeing Sparx surrounded by company he didn’t actively pester with insults. Sparx and the others would dart off into the village, much livelier now unlike when they had first arrived at the village mere moments ago.

“Come on, Cynder…we need to see if Spherin knows anything before my mom and dad come home…once they do, we’ll not have a single moments rest.” He says with a laugh, to which she’d grin before following after the purple dragon into the dragonfly village.

“So, this is where you grew up for sixteen years?” She asked as they jogged through the entire village, passing by beehive-like home after home before they quickly came to the largest of the bunch. Despite the size of the construct,

“Yup…this is home for Sparx and I. Or it was anyway…I guess Warfang would be my home now.” Spyro muttered, earning a curious look from Cynder. “I remember every inch of the land around the village leading out of the swamp and within.”

“Home is where the heart is, Spyro…at least, that’s what dragonflies believe. I hope you’ve not forgotten my old lessons, young one?” An aged, whimsical voice alerted them both. They turned their gazes to meet a dragonfly emerging from the largest home. He had bags beneath his faded blue eyes that held many years to them. He had a similar blue-silver glow to him like Reina, his wings longer than most dragonflies, which Cynder guessed could be used to represent age.

“I haven’t, Elder Spherin…but recent changes have led my hear to residing in the great dragon city.” Spyro said with a smile. The older dragonfly just gave him a simple nod in response. Cynder felt her cheeks heat up some in response, wondering if he was referring to their new relationship, though she knew it was likely a more complex reasoning than just her and her alone.

“I understand, young one. I’m sure you didn’t need many reasons to visit home with the apparent end of the great war…but I’m also sure that you have a reason for returning, yes?” Spherin asked softly, earning a curious look from Spyro.

“How did you know the war was over? The final battles took place far away from here near Warfang and Avalar.” Spyro perked a brow as he asked the question, a grin crossing Spherin’s face.

“We are not as deaf and blind as some believe us. We took great care in avoiding the long war to the northwest and elsewhere. Besides…Ignitus came to us a year ago, asking after you. He seemed distressed and gloomy then.” Spherin commented, earning another raised brow from Spyro and now Cynder. “Besides…the swamp felt the great trembling beneath the earth after a falcon arrived with a warning for us to seek refuge underground. Then…nothing. I knew at that moment, if there were a real ending to the great war of our homeland, that would be a fitting one. The land beneath us sundered, only to be repaired.”

“You met Ignitus during the war elder? He was here?” Spyro asked gently, his lower lip quivering.

“Indeed, he did…he came here asking if we had seen you, Sparx…or a young black dragoness in the last two years before his arrival.” He smiled, noting the dragoness by Spyro’s side. “I trust this is Cynder? I’ve heard your name…some dragonflies believed we should fear that name for a while.” That made Cynder’s gaze fall ever so slightly. “But I told them the simple truth: the only monsters are the ones we tell our children stories of in scary stories. Reality is not so simple…and I’m positive your reality is no different.” He offered her a smile.

Cynder gave him a light smile in return before bowing her horns to the elder.

“You are truly wise, Elder Spherin…and I thank you.” Cynder said thankfully, earning a bow from him.

“Some would rather call me an old coot who talks too much…but I thank you as well. Long ago I wasn’t much different from Sparx and Spyro…seeking adventures beyond the borders of the swamp, getting into trouble, and causing all sorts of talks from my elders at the time…to the point I was even called a disturber of the peace at one point.” He cackled some, earning a little laugh from the two young dragons. Spyro’s smile faded a bit as his thoughts went back to Ignitus, which Spherin took note of.

“I guess from the look you’ve given young Spyro, the news regarding Ignitus isn’t good?” He asked gently, placing a hand on Spyro’s shoulder.

“Ignitus passed on…he died a hero at the end of the war.” Spyro said softly, shaking it off after a moment. “His sacrifice helped win the war for our world.”

“Ah…a shame, he seemed a good fellow, much experience behind those eyes of his. I would have liked to share stories with him.” Spherin said gently, before pulling back from Spyro now. “You were getting as to why you came here?”

Spyro had almost forgotten their reasoning for coming to the swamp, the gears in his head turning once more.

“Oh, yes…we came seeking potential help. The dragon race is on the verge of crisis. If we don’t get more of our kind in the city of Warfang before long and centralize our numbers once more, we risk growing more divided and worse…extinction. Cynder and I were sent with a search party to locate more of our kind…but the guardians believe that there may be dragons near the swamp or at least in this region near the old temple. They…think the dragonflies, or some among them, could have useful information.” Spyro explained their mission to Spherin, who simply nodded his head as he listened. He seemed deep in thought, though Spyro noted a shift in his demeanor at the mention of dragons near the swamp.

“So, the situation is this dire for dragons?” He asked gently, rubbing his chin, earning a nod from Cynder and Spyro both.

“Yes sir, there’s less than one-hundred dragons in Warfang…when there’s more than enough room for several hundred if not a few thousand behind their walls.” Cynder added, earning a frown from Spherin.

“Serious indeed…” He thought aloud. “I have made many promises, many more which I promised to keep to myself over the long years of my life. Only rarely have I ever broken promises of such nature…and only for the right reasons.” He glanced back at them. “This…is one of those times.”

“What are you saying, Elder?” Spyro asked, earning a heavy sigh from the old dragonfly.

“I’m saying, Spyro…that when you were still growing up, maybe ten or eleven years after your hatchday dragons came to the village. I met with them in secrecy as to avoid them drawing eyes to the village and our people…you as well. There were many of them there with children or some of their precious eggs. They pleaded for our aid in finding a hiding spot, saying that their leaders had sent out a mass call for the dragons to go into hiding…and I helped them do so.” Spherin glanced down at the ground, while Spyro looked at him in amazement.

“So, dragons did pass through the swamp to potentially hide somewhere. This is wonderful news! Where did they go?!” Spyro asked quickly, earning a raised hand from Spherin.

“Patience young dragon…my words do not come as quickly as your mind thinks. Now…in my adventuring days, I found no adequate hiding spots within the swamp. But beyond our borders…there was one spot I guided them to. If you intend to find them, you must travel north up the river until you see a high-reaching elder tree. You know the one I speak of, past the swamp.” Spherin explained the path they’d need to take.

“I remember that tree, yes…it was like a spire when I was younger.” Spyro nodded, earning a smile from Spherin.

“Good to know your memory remains intact…upon reaching the tree, you must hang to the east leading towards the coast…and you will come to a great waterfall. You must venture past the waterfall, leading down a stone passage…into a grand valley. That, young dragon, is where you’ll find more of your people…if they have remained safe after almost nine years.” Spherin finishes his explanation, earning a thankful bow from Spyro.

“Thank you Elder…I hope they’ve remained safe too.” Spyro said softly.

“I believe they will have…the one leading them seemed a strong sort, still- apes were ever pressing up north…I offered them what help I could, and we went our separate ways.” Spherin nodded gently. “I told them I’d never tell anyone else of their location, but if your race is in such a truly dire state, I cannot turn a blind eye.”

“If dragons reside where you say they went to, you may have turned or fortunes around for the better…we can’t thank you enough.” Spyro smiled, bowing his head, but before they could turn away the elder held a hand for Spyro to come closer.

“One more thing though, Spyro.” Spherin muttered softly. “About Sparx, I mean.” Spyro and Cynder both leaned in to avoid anyone else overhearing what they discussed.

“I know you care for Sparx, and you will always be brothers...and this doesn’t have to happen now. But if what you say is true and your life will keep you to Warfang…I implore you to eventually speak to Sparx about returning home to the swamp.” Spherin said hesitantly, as if afraid of how Spyro would react. Cynder’s eyes widened a little, but Spyro seemed to go a bit stiff.

“I…I worried that I’d one day have to tell him he needed to return, but I never knew when. I guess that time is coming sooner than I had feared.” Spyro said with a slight quiver in his tone. “Just…nineteen years, even if three of them were spent trapped away frozen…it’s hard to imagine going a day without him near.”

“I know, young one, leaving behind home and family can be scary…but Warfang isn’t a home for dragonflies. He needs to one day return here with his own kind, the same way you must be with your own race in Warfang.” Spherin explained, his voice wise but soft as to avoid sounding demanding. “Besides…no time apart can truly divide what you and Sparx have. The bonds of brothers and fellowship are not so easily broken.”

“He’s right, Spyro.” Cynder said as she draped a wing over his back. “Warfang isn’t really a home to someone as small as Sparx…besides, it’s only a few hours of flying between this place and Warfang. He could visit you whenever he’d like…and you’d be able to visit here whenever you liked too.”

“Yeah…now wouldn’t be the right time to tell him, he’d only think I was trying to get rid of him here. When next we return to Warfang, I’ll start thinking of a way to tell him.” Spyro nodded slowly, Spherin flying down to pat him on the shoulder again.

“Like my lesson on love…an ultimate showing of it is knowing when to let someone go if you truly love them.” Spherin said with a weak smile. “But you’re free to go on now, if my timing is correct it won’t be long before the gatherers return-.”

“SPYRO!” A feminine voice rang out, cutting off the elder as they turned their eyes to the source. Spyro’s eyes widened as his eyes fell on a familiar pair of dragonflies, dragging Sparx along as they flew closer. The taller of the two was blueish silver dressed in a blue robe, the other a soft peachy-pink with green wings and a green dress.

“Mom…dad!” Spyro said quickly, darting off towards them, leaving Spherin and Cynder in the dust as he sprinted towards the two dragonflies with Sparx in tow. The two of them dived down to meet the purple dragon, both tightly hugging their adoptive son by the snout! “I…I never thought I’d see either of you again!” Spyro choked out, Sparx groaning as he was forcibly pulled into the hug by Flash.

“Oh, my sweet boys…both of you are back!” Nina said happily, holding both of them as close as she could, Flash doing the same.

“Welcome home boys.” Flash said softly. “It’s so good to have you both back…”

“Have…ack…we got a story to tell you guys.” Sparx said with a laugh as he was held hostage in the family’s embrace.

Spherin gave Cynder a look, the black dragoness was clearly conflicted on if she should approach the group now or simply keep her distance.

“You wish to meet them?” Spherin asked, Cynder returning his query with a gentle nod.

“I…don’t want to impose on them…they look so happy.” She says with a sideways smile.

“Oh, I don’t think you would be imposing, but wait for Spyro to introduce you…a pleasant surprise to his mother and father for sure.” Spherin gave her the idea as he turned to return to his home. “Lovely to meet you, and good luck on your mission. Do take care of Spyro.” With that, Spherin vanished into his home, the door closing behind him now.

When the four broke from their embrace, Spyro’s mother glanced over both Spyro and Sparx with a joyous look on her face, wiping a single tear away.

“Oh, it’s just lovely to have you both home…come, come! You said you’ve got quite the story to share, your father and I are all too eager to hear it!” Nina beamed, taking Flash’s hand as they gestured for the two to follow them. Sparx followed in tow quickly, but before they could get far, Spyro waved a wing to Cynder as a way of telling her to come with them.

Cynder gave him a nervous look before creeping along after them, not wishing to really draw attention to herself from Nina and Flash as she followed them wherever it was they were being taken to. Reina saw Spyro and Sparx following Nina and Flash towards their home, darting after them as she stayed close to Sparx.

“Where were you guys for three years?” She asked, earning a laugh from both Spyro and Sparx.

“Like I said, long story which we’ve gotta tell.” Sparx laughed.

Before long, the entire group would come to one of the more distant beehive-like homes in the village, coming near the outer border with a small gathering of large tree-like mushrooms nearby. As they approached, the stones began to glow a bright orangey amber.

“Home sweet home…” Sparx said happily, gazing upon their house once again for the first time in over three years. “Never thought I’d miss this place so badly.”

“As I said Spyro, welcome home.” Flash said as he turned back to the group, his gaze immediately fell upon Cynder now that he had looked back to see the black dragoness following after them. “Oh…friend of yours, Spyro?”

Spyro glanced back at Cynder, giving her a smile and a gesture with his wing for her to approach, the black dragoness slinking forward some, still a bit nervous as she didn’t wish to intrude…despite being invited now. Nina looked back and noted the look Spyro gave both her and Flash as Cynder approached.

“Oh! Sparx? Why don’t you go with Reina to gather some of the fruit for dinner! I forgot to grab some, we were just too excited when we heard you were both back.” Nina said with a little laugh. Sparx’s wings drooped some.

“Alright alright, come on Reina.” He smiles back at her, the two darting off to do as Nina had asked.

Once Sparx and Reina were off and they had a moment alone, Nina turned to Spyro and gave him a gentle nod of approval.

“Go ahead dear…introduce your friend!” Nina smiled as she looked over the approaching black dragoness.

“Mom, dad…this is my best friend, Cynder. We met shortly after I left the swamp…though you’ll hear that story before long, I’m sure.” Spyro smiled widely at the two. Flash still seemed to not know the true extent, but Nina was covering her mouth with excitement as she didn’t wish to jump to conclusions.

“Your son saved me…several times. Simple words can’t justly describe how much he means to me.” Cynder smiled. Spyro glanced back at her and gave her a reassuring look, sliding a paw over as she’d intertwine her own with his.

“Mom, dad…though it’s new to us, we’re together. I…love her. We stood side by side together when times were hardest…and I’d have it no other way.” Spyro admitted, his voice soft before giving both of his adoptive parents a goofy grin.

Nina looked as though she’d explode with joy!

“Oooooooh!” She made a giddy noise, zipping forward and latching herself onto Cynder’s snout as she looked her right in the black dragoness’ emerald eyes. “You are gorgeous! Our little Spyro finally found someone special!” Nina beamed at the black dragoness, who almost felt as though she’d shed tears from the joyous acceptance she was receiving from the dragonfly mother. “You are welcome here any time!”

The black dragoness felt true welcome and acceptance from the very person who Spyro called mother, it made her feel warm inside and as if her heart doubled in size.

Was this what it felt like to be accepted by family? Cynder knew not, but she could happily say that this was a good feeling regardless of what it truly meant.

Flash crossed his arms and gave Spyro an approving nod.

“Your mother and I always said you’d find someone out there for you son.” Flash said happily, Spyro’s cheeks heating up in a blush as his parents spoiled both he and Cynder.

Cynder felt as though she was on a roll. First, she and Spyro had managed to make new friends, now she was meeting Spyro’s parents for the very first time and felt accepted by the two dragonflies.

Perhaps things would only be going up from here on out for the black dragoness? She knew such a hope was unlikely…karma worked in both ways, and she had a feeling it would turn against her in due time. For now, she simply enjoyed the feeling of being accepted by some who weren’t just Spyro. First their new friends, now Spyro’s parents who had watched over him for sixteen years.

They had all shared a lovely dinner of fruit and insects, to which Cynder politely declined the bugs, before Flash and Nina’s home. Spyro and Sparx told their parents the long story which followed them upon leaving the swamp years before this very moment. Their parents had a hard time coming to terms with the realities and dangers Spyro and Sparx had faced.

Nina had a hard time believing someone like Cynder could once be the very black dragon that had once stalked the skies near the swamp’s outlying territory. She found it troubling to accept that someone so young could be turned into such a monstrous being. She was less than happy with any mention of Malefor or Gaul throughout the entire story and their involvement in the downfall of dragons.

The two appeared terrified by the notion of what happened in the Well of Souls…Spyro, Sparx, and Cynder felt no reason to keep the full truth from them both, though Nina and Flash could never truly comprehend the severity of Spyro’s predicament…even the trio could not truly make sense of it as a concept. To have a dark alter-ego residing within oneself. Still, their parents didn’t seem dissuaded by this fact and continued to attentively listen to Spyro and Sparx tell the story.

There were a few moments which Sparx attempted to embellish the story in his favor, only for Spyro to set the dragonfly straight by telling the truth as to what really happened in such moments when Sparx twisted events…one being how they rescued Meadow from Avalar.

Before long, they eventually got to the part of the story which regarded how Spyro and Cynder had to charge off into the Burned Lands to face Malefor, to prevent the cracking of the world. Nina, Flash, and Reina seemed on the edge of their seats as they listened to how Spyro had broken Cynder free of Malefor’s control, Ignitus’ sacrifice, Cynder preventing Spyro from taking out revenge on Malefor, and Spyro’s final effort to piece the world back together.

The story came to an end when they reached the part of Cynder and Spyro waking up, finding themselves in the Valley of Avalar days after their battle with Malefor. Spyro’s recovery, getting help from the cheetahs, and spending time together there before returning to Warfang finally.

“And…here we are.” Spyro smiled at their parents, garnering their reactions to the tale. Nina seemed deeply troubled, but Flash appeared proud of his two sons.

“I think it’s nothing less than a grand destiny then, that you two leave home to seek out your own adventures. At the end of all things, you were both right where you needed to be when it mattered most…you both overcame adversity at every turn, and you even managed to see through what Cynder was made into and rescued her. You both always had good hearts, and I knew you’d be just fine on your own.” Flash said happily.

“Oh, my poor babies…!” Nina gasped, latching herself onto Spyro’s muzzle again. “You both went through so much; I only wish your father and I could have been more help.” She said sadly, Spyro smiled up at her as he met her gaze.

“You did plenty mom…you and dad raised us right. That’s more help we could have asked for.” Spyro said with a little laugh.

“Well…wouldn’t have hurt to have a little more food for the road when we left.” Sparx muttered, receiving a slap from Cynder’s tail as soon as it left his mouth! The golden dragonfly silently cursed underneath his breath as the conversations continued.

“And Malefor…I wouldn’t give the awful things he told you the time-of-day son, desperate people will say anything to try and appear as anything but. You and Cynder proved yourselves far stronger than he could have ever imagined from what you’ve told me.” Flash explained with a firm tone.

“I wasn’t strong enough…Ignitus was killed because I let my anger get to me. If I had been in the right headspace, Ignitus wouldn’t have needed to swoop in and save us.” Spryo said frustratedly.

“Sweety, sometimes things just happen for a reason…even the worst things. When you and your brother left home, I was a wreck for days, and I wondered constantly if you’d both be safe. Three years later…here you both are. Your father is right…you were right where you needed to be when it mattered most.” Nina smiled, though her eyes returned the remorse Spyro felt.

“To think…both of our boys ended up being heroes who saved us all.” Flash said proudly, giving Spyro and Sparx a broad smile which warmed them both. “Cynder too of course…sorry dear, we’re just not used to talking about more dragons than Spyro.”

His words didn’t seem to really have the intended meaning with Cynder, who gave the dragonfly a curious look. Nina rolled her eyes before she swooped in to rescue him.

“What my husband means to say is that while we’re proud of our sons, we’re also proud of the part you played, Cynder…as well, thank you for being there for Spyro when Sparx couldn’t. As I said before…you are always welcome here for helping keep them both safe.” Nina said as she flew down to hug the black dragoness, Cynder humming happily into the embrace as the dragonfly hugged her chest.

Sparx suddenly had an idea, trying to get past the mushy topic of their tale.

“Hey mom, wanna show Cynder the den?” He asked, earning a happy look from Nina.

“Oh yes! Come along Cynder, you should see this!” Nina said happily as she gestured for the black dragoness to follow. Spyro gave a nervous laugh as he followed after them both with Sparx, Reina, and Flash in tow. The group went a short distance from their main home to a small clearing in the large mushrooms which provided a canopy over the land. It was then Cynder could spot a mossy curtain concealing what was actually a small burrow of sorts.

Nina giggled some as she’d lift the veil up some to allow for Cynder to step inside of. The den, as Sparx had called it was mostly comprised of tightly packed dirt which was covered with blankets of moss to prevent it from collapsing in on itself, even some wooden rods fashioned to help support the ceiling. There was a soft mushroom top which had been fashioned into a bed.

“This is where I used to sleep…after I got too big for the house. In hindsight I probably should have known that I wasn’t a dragonfly…but the swamp was my whole world, so I had no reason to suspect I was anything more than a special case.” Spyro said nervously. Cynder just smiled as she glanced around the small burrow, it was simple…but there was clear care that went into the design of the den.

“Oh, he looked so adorable sleeping on that mushroom top when we first had it made for him!” Nina mused on the memory. “It went through several changes…especially when Spyro’s horns grew in. We had to carve the ceiling higher as to avoid him collapsing it atop him…again.” She giggled.

“Yeah, if it wasn’t his weight causing issues, it was those big ol’ horns once they grew.” Sparx chuckled.

“I thought it was really cute, seeing the village come together to build this for Spyro. Grandfather never had the heart to tell Spyro the truth until Flash and Nina were ready…a lovely community project for us.” Reina smiled, earning an eyeroll from Sparx who still wasn’t as amused by the memory.

“But it was worth it…a safe place for our larger-than-life son to stay.” Flash would say, before his gaze fell on their group for a moment. He seemed to be deep in thought as the group observed the den.

Cynder couldn’t help but glance back at the purple dragon, a caring look in her eyes.

“So this was your own little home? I…you must have been really special to the dragonflies, for them to make this specially for you.” Cynder said thoughtfully, earning a nod from Nina.

“He still is special to our people. Spyro is our son…he may have been born in an egg several times bigger than Sparx’s own, grew scales and horns…but he was ever special to us.” Nina said as she buzzed down near Spyro, her gaze turning to Sparx. “They both were…born just minutes apart on the same day we found Spyro’s egg. We took it as a good omen from that day that they were both blessed to have a prosperous life as brothers.”

Flash remained silent for several more moments, before clearing his throat.

“So Spyro…what did bring you boys back to the swamp? You were speaking to the elder about something from what we saw when we arrived.” Flash finally spoke after a moment of contemplation, drawing Spyro and Sparx back to reality.

Sparx hesitated to speak, Spyro understood why he felt this way. He knew Sparx longed to stay in the swamp, but they had a mission to see through.

“…yes…we came here from Warfang on a mission, actually.” Spyro said softly, trying to not sound too abrupt. “The dragons are on the verge of collapse if we don’t start consolidating our remaining numbers. We came to this region to search for dragons currently in hiding…if they’re still safe.” He finished.

“So…you aren’t staying?” Nina asked as she turned to Spyro and Sparx now. Reina looked to Sparx sadly as she knew by their reactions that their fears were true.

“We aren’t mom…we swore we’d see the mission through.” Spyro grimaced, not able to bear the puppy dog eyes Nina gave him and Sparx both.

“I…I don’t actually know what to call you both. Spyro and Sparx’s parents or Flash and Nina?” Cynder asked softly, earning a smile from Flash.

“The latter works just fine dear.” Flash nodded slowly.

“Well, Flash and Nina, this mission is important to our people and could mean the difference between survival and extinction for our race.” Cynder explained gently. “Even with the world saved, Spyro and I have duties to fulfill while we still have strength.”

“I…it just…we lost you two for three years.” Nina said sadly, glancing between Sparx and Spyro.

“We did just get them back after three years.” Reina pouted. Sparx looked at her regretfully before he and Spyro turned their gazes to the ground.

“Well…now that we know they’re back, I felt that they wouldn’t be able to stay long. But now that the war is over, hopefully you boys will be able to visit us soon?” Flash asked, trying to cheer Nina and Reina up and draw some flak from Spyro and Sparx.

“Of course we will! The swamp will always be our first home, we’d never forget it.” Sparx said firmly, Spyro nodding in agreement.

“We will…we lost three years, and even if this reunion was short…there will be time for more now that we’re back.” Spyro added, leaning down to meet Nina’s gaze.

“I guess…just a mother’s hope of keeping both of her babies close. You both have your lives ahead of you. I trust you to find your way back home.” She smiled, floating over to pull Spyro’s muzzle in for another tight hug.

“Of couese mom…we’ll always find our way home. I promise…” Spyro said softly, leaning into his mother’s hug.

“Sparx?” Reina asked, drawing his gaze now. “Just…don’t be a stranger. Things haven’t been the same here without you for three years. Perhaps…once your mission is over, you could come back to the swamp?”

Sparx smiled, he didn’t often get emotional- but with Reina, things were different. He’d float over to the silvery-blue dragonfly and pulls her in for a tight hug.

“I’ll be back once I can…Warfang gets cluttered with dragons at every corner.” Sparx said gently, attempting a jest into their hug.

“Hah…good.” She gave a little laugh.

Cynder just smiled, seeing another side of Sparx she had only seen when they left for the Burned Lands with Ignitus…the side of him which didn’t hind behind a mask of jests and quips at their expense to conceal his own emotions. It was a side of Spyro’s dragonfly brother she found herself growing more and more fond of. The same side which had greeted her with open arms upon their return to Warfang days ago.

Nina pulled away from the embrace with Spyro, offering a weak smile to both him and Sparx now.

“My brave heroes…you’d better return to the temple before the sun sets completely.” Nina shuddered some, coming to terms with them leaving again.

“Ah…why not?” Sparx said before he flew in to hug Nina. It wasn’t long before Reina joined the hug, Flash floating down to join the hug as well, encasing the other three dragonflies in his arms. Spyro lent his snout up to press into their side as to be apart of the embrace as well. Cynder stayed to the side for a moment, but the purple dragon gestured her over with a wing, the black dragoness leaning in with her long neck to press her own snout in as well, a paw intertwining with Spyro’s.

It warmed Cynder’s heart further, to be welcomed into such an embrace with the group hug in her own way.

The sun had set in the dark, nighttime sky as the stars began to twinkle in the sky when the trio returned to the dragon temple. Ulris stood guard outside with the other four guard dragons, surrounding a small fireplace they had put together with some kindling they had gathered from the woods below the temple.

“Ah, welcome back you three.” Ulris waved at them with one of his large wings. “Any luck with the dragonflies?” The fire dragon asked.

“We did!” Cynder said happily, knowing Spyro and Sparx were still rather sore with having to leave, she’d take the moment to speak with the guards. “We have a location.”

“Good, good! Take this news to lady Nix, she should still be awake.” Ulris stated, turning to breathe some fire upon the door, causing the door to unlock and slide open for anyone passing through.

“Will you be staying out here, Ulris?” She asked, while Spyro and Sparx moved past the black dragoness into the old temple’s main chamber. The guard leader nodded his head gently.

“The guards will be keeping watch on a rotation, let you and the young dragons get your sleep.” Ulris smiled, the other guards nodding in agreement.

“Then you have our thanks, let us know if you or the other guards need anything.” Cynder offers, receiving a bow from the large, red-scaled dragon.

“Most generous, milady. We should be fine for tonight, but I won’t forget.” Ulris said, gesturing her inside. “Go on in for now, you should join the others.” To which Cynder would smile at the fire dragon before running after Spyro and Sparx. As she entered the temple, she could already spot the two talking to Nix.

“We have our heading then…and the potential for dragons to be in hiding when we get there.” Nix would observe their map of the region, allowing Spyro to mark the location the dragonfly elder had mentioned to them, at least…a vague spot for it. “Well done. We set out for this hiding place in the morning.”

Cynder approached finally, getting a close look at the map which laid out the entire region surrounding the temple. From the autumn woods to the mushroom forest and the swamp…it was a rather expansive place without a guide…it was a good thing they had both Spyro and Sparx present. Cynder knew the land surrounding the temple decently well enough, but they knew the entire region far better.

“Well then, you three should be off to bed soon. The younger dragons are sleeping in the next room over, rest well.” Nix smiled, sitting down onto her haunches to continue studying the map some. Spyro and Cynder bowed their heads to the older dragoness, turning to venture further into the temple and leaving Nix to her own work for the night.

When the door closed shut, Spyro and Cynder were immediately faced with the realization that only Granite remained behind in the room where the younger dragons should be…Storm, Eletara, and Galacion were all three gone, however. It seemed Nix had missed them venturing off.

Granite looked rather distressed, noting their arrival.

“Guys!” He exclaimed, running towards them. “Guys…Storm and Eletara ran off to explore the temple…they didn’t come back for a while and Galacion went off alone without me to find them. I didn’t want to leave without anyone else knowing…and I didn’t know how to tell Nix.” Granite stammered, Spyro immediately placed a paw on his shoulder.

“Breathe Granite, do you know where they went to in the temple?” Spyro asked while Sparx provided light for them. Granite would inhale and exhale after a silent moment before nodding his head slowly.

“Eletara…she was especially interested in the large chamber at the midpoint below the peak of the temple and going towards the woods below, it had a door leading towards the Silver River, I think…when we saw it on approach.” Granite said, taking another deep breath.

“A chamber? I never knew about a chamber down on the lower levels…Ignitus always told us to avoid venturing down below…I only saw the lowest level when I left the temple.” Cynder thought aloud, not remembering the location being mentioned.

Spyro thought about it for a long moment, before his eyes widened.

“Oh no…” Spyro muttered. “Come on!” Spyro exclaimed, running towards the doorway which led to the stairwell that pointed downwards. When he noted that the other three present hesitated, he gave them a pleading look.

“Come on! If they found what I think they did, they shouldn’t be alone without anyone to explain it!” Spyro called back, finally the trio behind him rushed after the purple dragon as he led them down into the temple.

When Spyro, Cynder, Sparx and Granite came down the stairs halfway into the temple, they were brought to a landing which led inward to a new section which Cynder vaguely remembered…but the only time she saw it, she had no intentions of sticking around before leaving that very same night from the temple.

Spyro rushed ahead of the group, leading them forward through the section of the temple before they came to a destroyed wooden door. There were banners on both sides of the door, worn and shredded showing sigils for each element on the corners, divided by their colors. The door was barely hanging onto the old hinges, showing signs of having been forcibly opened…despite the elemental lock that it still possessed. Brute force was applied to bring this door down.

“Spyro…what is this place?” Cynder asked, giving him a wary look. Spyro glanced back at her sadly, meeting her emerald gaze before turning to also meet Granite and Sparx’s eyes.

“The sad history of this temple.” Spyro said before leading them in. They reluctantly followed Spyro into the room. Their sights immediately fell upon Galacion, Eletara, and Storm. The trio of dragons stood together in the room, frozen and seemingly paralyzed.

“Guys…?” Spyro asked softly, trying to draw their gaze away from whatever it was they were looking at. As they approached, Cynder and Granite looked around slowly…they felt old straw beneath their paws. The glow from Sparx lit up stone pedestals all throughout the room which had more straw strewn on and about them. Spyro’s words fell on deaf ears seemingly, but they quickly learned why…the sight they found caused them to freeze as well.

“Oh man…this place gives me the creeps.” Sparx shuddered, his teeth chattering out of fear as he floated through the room.

Galacion, Storm, and Eletara were staring intently at what looked like shards of colored stone…upon further inspection, the group could tell they weren’t stones at all.

They were eggshell fragments.

“Spyro…” Eletara said finally, turning to slowly meet his amethyst gaze with her own eyes, filled with dread. “…what is this?” She asked, her voice shuddering and barely managing the words.

Spyro just let out a deep, saddened sigh.

“This is the egg chamber of the temple…where the eggs were kept for hatching. What you’re looking at…is the results of the temple raid. When Gaul led the attack, as Ignitus told me, Terrador and Cyril did their best to hold the inner sanctum of the temple, but when Terrador was overwhelmed, they were forced to pull back. Cyril and Volteer tried to buy time for Ignitus to save the eggs…but…” Spyro trailed off, earning Galacion’s gaze now.

“…but?” She asked gently.

“My egg was the only one to be saved, as you know the story. He carried me to the Silver River and sent me down, only to return and find the others overrun and the eggs all destroyed…all except Cynder’s egg.” Spyro told the story, giving Cynder a sad look. Spyro may have gotten the better deal of the two, but he had always felt a sense of survivor’s guilt when it came to this place.

Cynder glanced around the room now, as if she could see and hear the unborn dragons from the eggs crying out at them in eternal anguish for never even having a chance at life.

“This…this place knows only sadness.” Cynder said with a shudder, narrowly missing more eggshell fragments on the stone floor as she stepped closer to the group in the room.

“So much cruelty…” Storm muttered under his breath. “How did dragons ever stand up against such reckless hate and malice?”

“Because they had no choice.” Granite said firmly, his sad expression becoming one of stone now. As unwavering as the element he commanded. “What I see is the very reason why we stood against the Dark Master…someone willing to condemn unborn dragon children to death. Our old kingdom took a stand against the cruelty of Malefor and fought bitterly to prevent the rest of our race from being subjected to a similar fate such as this.”

Spyro and Cynder gave Granite a pair of surprised looks, seeing the earth dragon’s ability to wrest control of his emotions and shift demeanors.

He was much like Terrador in that sense. The old earth guardian could seemingly keep his emotions under total control, defiantly refusing to let them get the better of him in any scenario…the most recent being the loss of Ignitus.

“What I see is the reason we’ll never forget nor forgive the cruel monsters who led the dark armies. We’ll never forget Gaul for the cruelty he showed dragons, or how he helped turn Cynder into the Terror of the Skies. We’ll never forgive Malefor for the evil he imposed on the world for his own selfish reasons. Brave dragons took a stand to put and end to their cruelty…and years later, we remain…and they do not.” Granite said firmly.

“Still…so many hatchlings that never even got the chance to see their hatchdays. Innocent souls who never even began to live really. How could anyone have such a lack of care for life?” Galacion asked softly, softly nudging some of the eggshell fragments.

“Monsters…only monsters derived of sanity or regard for lives other than their own would commit such heinous things. We are not monster however, and we will continue to stand for the living and those who may one day live. It’s our duty to make a better world for those to come…and so long as good hearts lead this effort, it gives me hope.” Spyro finally cracked a smile.

“Spyro’s right.” Cynder said quietly, glancing down at some of the shell fragments sadly. “If fate had been kinder, I would have been one of these eggs and not live to see just how cruel Malefor and Gaul were to the living…but we showed them that so long as steadfast individuals resist, they will never triumph.”

A long silence fell between the group of dragons and Sparx, silently contemplating the words shared together, before Granite spoke again.

“Listen…we have no need to tell Nix about this little side venture. We return to the top of the temple and get some rest…there’s work to be done for the living. Our efforts to help our race start tomorrow.” Granite stated firmly. “We’re all due for some sleep.”

“Agreed…let’s leave this room behind…for good now. Never forget nor forgive…but find solace in your motivations for remembering.” Spyro said firmly, leading the group from the room now. He’d wait for them all to pass before slowly sliding the door shut.

“Well said.” Cynder said simply, leaning in to nuzzle Spyro some before walking toward the stairs behind the rest of the group. Spyro could see the light from Sparx’s glow leading up the stairs starting to fade as he got further away.

He’d glance back at the room one more time, giving it a final moment of silent consideration…before quickly turning tail as it felt all too real that he was actively being watched, running up the stairs after the rest of their group. He felt the weight of the day pressing down on him and he already feared his dreams being haunted…this would not help.

If the group was lucky, this grim visit to the former egg chamber would never be revisited to the end of their days.

Chapter Text

Hunter raised an arm to the sky as Ana perched on his glove, the cheetah reaching out to scritch at her behind her head some, the falcon leaning into his hand as he showed is thanks to her.

“If you’re back, it means we near our first heading.” He said softly, eyes looking over the land before him. He passed the grassy ridge ahead and was met with the sight of a dark, black and purple region far off and would still take another day’s journey to reach and make their first sweep through. It had already been two days since they left Warfang, he and his search party of cheetahs and three moles, the first day had been to cross the majority of the flatland surrounding Warfang.

The next day had been comprised of them marching onward until they reached the hilly ridges that led to the other lands beyond Warfang’s border, long since they had seen any sign of Spyro and Cynder’s search party flying for the dragon temple. He imagined it would be some time before they saw the dragons or Warfang again…he hoped that his party would return with their quarry or come back to find out the other search party had found success.

“Hunter, what do you think we’ll find in the Ancient Grove?” One of his cheetahs asked aloud, their bow and spear tucked onto their back behind their backpack. Those with him were far less excited about the mission they had been sent on by the dragons unlike Hunter, but the moles were onboard. He admired their dedication to the dragons and welcomed their presence on the mission. They couldn’t keep up with the cheetahs as well as they would have liked, but it wouldn’t be a hindrance to the mission overall.

“If we don’t find signs of dragons hiding within the grove, then I imagine we’ll find many poisonous plants and less than welcoming animals.” Hunter said cheerfully, studying the grove off in the distance. It would likely take a few hours to march to the grove, but they were committed.

“You think we’ll actually find dragons, master Hunter?” One of the moles asked, their crossbow stowed into their backpack as they followed the cheetahs up the ridge. They were given the same view as Hunter of the ancient grove which had only been last explored during the old war with the apes.

“I cannot say if we will find dragons, my friend. What I can say is that we’ll try our best to find some regardless! It is an honor to be asked to chance such a journey.” Hunter would glance over the long open flat grassland leading to the grove, something causing his eyes to shift and narrow some.

“Everyone down, near grass level!” Hunter called back to the party, every cheetah and mole going low (though the moles were already close to the tall grass), eyes above as they reached the tip of the ridge to gaze upon what Hunter was seeing.

“What is it? What do you see?” One of the moles would ask, crossbow in hand now as they nervously scanned over the flatland.

“It’s not what I see…it’s what I smell.” Hunter would comment, his nose tilted towards the sky as he kept low towards the grass. The other cheetahs soon gave similar looks, some of the fur on the back of their necks standing, eyes narrowed as they studied the land before them.

“That foul smell…filth mixed with brimstone and dark magic…grublins.” Hunter said with a cold voice now, no longer cheery and full of adventurous hope. “But where are they…” The cheetah said slowly, his eyes darting around…until they fell upon the first hint of movement me saw through the tall grass.

A simple grublin lacky, a horrendous club in hand. They were a long way off, farther than they or the moles could see. But the cheetahs had far better hearing and smell, able to sense the grublins from afar. He spotted an orc at the head of the party of underlings…and their direction faced the ancient grove, just like their own destination course had them on.

“They venture to the ancient grove as well...Hunter, should we send word to the guardians for aid?” One of the cheetahs asked, earning a headshake from Hunter.

“This could be a scouting party for all we know…no need to get the dragons involved. We’ll simply keep our stance. Their senses are less than impressive on the surface. If we were underground, I’d say yes.” Hunter would retrieve his bow, just in case. “Come, we keep moving to the grove. With luck, they’re merely probing it for signs of life…or they’re seeking new hiding spots with the Burned Lands no longer being protected by the belt of fire…regardless, we only confront them should it be necessary.”

Hunter couldn’t deny the nagging feeling in the back of his head that there was more amiss with the grublins being on the same route to the grove…the timing felt too convenient, especially with the war over. But he couldn’t let the mission be compromised for a feeling without evidence. Still, he’d retrieve one of the tiny scrolls of paper intended for Ana, getting out a small sharp stone of graphite, scribbling down a message before tucking it all back away into his message bag. It wasn’t needed for now, but he’d take preemptive measures.

“Spyro and Cynder’s group is well underway by now, we should be too. This will slow our progress ever so slightly, but we can’t let the prospect of grublins deter us. I’m confident in this party’s ability to handle troubles that come our way. We press on!” Hunter said confidently, raising his bow with a broad smile. The party would pick themselves up and begin their march anew across the flatlands leading them away from Warfang.

There was a slight air of anxiety to Hunter’s mind now…perhaps sending word to the guardians was the right choice? This was the first time he had been trusted to take lead on another mission to such a degree as when Ignitus had sent him to find Spyro and Cynder years prior. He couldn’t let the fire guardian’s past trust in him be put into question…he wished to make up for his people’s lacking presence in the war for the longest time.

He'd shake off these feelings, not letting the feelings drag his mind to less pleasant thoughts, determined to honor the guardians’ confidence in him, even if they failed the actual mission’s goal. Hunter would at the very least have them return and give Terrador, Cyril, and Volteer an honest answer…best case scenario, they’d return with dragons at their back.

The city felt infinitely emptier with some of the few dragons left in Warfang now gone on the mission with Nix. Terrador had always hated the silence…despite his solitary, stoic nature…he took comfort in other social interactions happening around him. Such a massive city demanded life…life which it lacked even before the mission had been sent underway.

One of their parties had to succeed. As the seasons set in, the dragons would be hurting if they couldn’t start consolidating their numbers once again…spread out, they were doomed to a slow and inevitable extinction.

But Terrador had other things to tend to today, starting with a visit to the mole stonemasons. The earth guardian would land before a large building which several moles hustled and bustled about, carrying stones back and forth they were hard at work providing materials to help repair the outer wall as well as several buildings in the most severely damaged districts.

What few dragons that could help the stonemasons were, carrying larger loads of stone further into the city or helping the stonemasons craft it as best they could. There was another project being handled which Terrador had come to check in on, but first he’d address one of the lead stonemasons, standing over them and earning a bow from the mole.

“Ah, guardian Terrador, sir!” The mole would rise back up, meeting the green-scaled dragon’s eyes as he did. “What can I do for you?” He asked politely.

“I merely wished to hear the current estimate…the city suffered much damage and we’re not out of the woods yet. Grublin activity remains, the wall must stand should another attack come to Warfang.” Terrador said firmly, raising a brow as the mole would unroll some parchment on his wooden board.

“Ah, currently with the dragon assistance we have now, repairs to the wall are estimated at around four months, give or take, my lord. Two months for the damaged districts.” The mole explained, earning a frown from Terrador now.

“Is there no other way to get the wall repaired in shorter time?” Terrador asked, the mole quickly going through their scroll as they seemed to be rapidly reading through some notes.

"Well...we could divert some workers from the work on the military and academy districts, that might save us a couple weeks or so, my lord…but without more help I see no way to increase the pace unless we double the shift hours.” The stonemason explained, earning a headshake from Terrador.

“No, I won’t put more work on your people than you’re already dealing with…do you have any other ideas? If we’re lucky, dragons will begin returning to Warfang with the end of the war’s news being spread…but perhaps there’s others we could call upon for aid in repairs.” Terrador would glance around, watching the moles as they went about their work diligently.

“Well…perhaps this is out of my paygrade my lord, but perhaps the Atlawa could be brought in? We’ve heard stories that their own stonemasons are and workflow are masterful…maybe they could improve the process overall?” The mole asked, while Terrador rubbed his chin.

“Perhaps…I’ll have Cyril send a message to Tall Plains and see if their stonemasons would visit the city to offer their own estimates on the damages and needed repairs.” Terrador said thoughtfully. “For now, do what you can as you’ve been doing, and thank you.” Terrador thanked the stonemason before entering the large building, passing carefully by other moles inside before he passed into a large corridor which led to another chamber within the stonemasonry.

At the end stood a group of moles surrounded by large blocks of marble, piles of clay, crystals, and paints. Mason was present, making some sort of clay mixture before he spotted Terrador approaching.

“Ah, my lord Terrador, welcome back. Come for a progress report?” He asked cheerfully, earning a nod from the earth guardian, as he studied the work the moles in the more artistic side of the crafters worked. Sculptors and artists working on massive black marble platforms.

“Indeed…the dragons on the missions we sent out will be looking for us to finally hold a service for Ignitus…I want to make sure this fits his requests he had in his notes for us should he pass on.” Terrador followed after Mason.

“Well, I can happily say we should be done within the next few weeks…though I have to ask, we’re only making a single statue…but four pedestals. What was Ignitus’ thought process going into this project, if I may ask?” Mason asked, turning to face Terrador now.

Terrador hesitated to explain the contents of Ignitus’ intricate notes to Mason but felt the mole governor and master tinkerer deserved at least an explanation for this project.

“In Ignitus’ journal entries, his wishes should he pass on were simple…and one of them involved how he was remembered and how the rest of the guardians were remembered. He wished for the other pedestals to remain empty, and to only have them filled when other members of our order passed on…a grim thought, but reasonable.” Terrador would explain, before continuing.

“He wished the others to remain empty and only be filled once another guardian passed on. He said it was so the rest of us would be remembered equally after he passed…he felt as though the history books will only credit him and not Volteer, Cyril, and myself. He wanted the other statues to be added following our passings and for each of us to be given the same ceremonies in our own time. He wished for the statues to depict us to represent the guardians who led the dragons through all our victories and failures during the great war our race faced.” Terrador finished, taking a breath now as Mason sat with this information.

“Very well sir, I shall respect his wishes of course and continue working on it as I was instructed. I’ll send word to your chambers once the work is complete.” Mason said softly. “Did you need anything else?”

“No…thank you Mason.” Terrador said simply, turning to leave the artistic chamber of the stonemasonry. When he emerged back into the open sunlight, he spotted a flock of birds flying over the city…for some reason, it weighed on his heart as he pictured it being a formation of dragons flying overhead.

Things had to get better…they had to. It would only get worse before it got better if their race’s current situation didn’t get turned around.

He quickly shook it off, the earth guardian had other matters to attend to, starting with his colleagues.

Terrador landed before the great library of the Warfang tower, passing through the double doors and passing into the dimly lit building. The library was one of the city’s most grand pieces of design and architecture, grand jade pillars supporting the roofing, circular bookcases lining the walls and conforming to the spiral shape of the entire library. There were several levels going up the expanse of the tower, massive floors of nothing but bookshelves collected throughout all the ages.

Places like this were a long, old echo of the old dragon kingdom. Never could they recreate such a thing in their time to come. Maybe they could hope to make some type of parodies of such marvelous creations…but they’d never manage to recapture the glory of their ancestors.

Things like this had to be protected, which is why Terrador was thankful it was in the most defensible part of the city…should the need ever arise again.

He heard some muffled voices further in, walking along the soft green carpet, inlayed into the soft marble floor to match the jade pillars. When he came to the end of the base level, he found Volteer and Tempest speaking together.

The electricity guardian glanced past Tempest, noting Terrador’s arrival.

“Ah, Terrador, what brings you to the library?” He asked cheerfully. “You don’t often visit.” Volteer reminisced.

“I…came here to ask you about the…” He glanced around, making sure they weren’t being listened to. “…the vault. I’d also like to know if we have any texts regarding the dragonstones.” Terrador said gently.

“Dragonstones…I’ll see what I can find!” Tempest said happily, bidding her leave from the group for a moment as she immediately went to work about browsing the library a few levels up…she’d likely make faster work of it than even Volteer.

“The vault? If you’re asking about potential possession of one deep within the guardian vault…you’ll be disappointed to know we lack them. Malefor found the very first one we’ve seen in thousands of years. Why does this interest you, Terrador? I didn’t take you for having an interest in old artifacts.” Volteer perked a brow.

“I usually don’t, but we never asked Spyro or Cynder if they knew what became of the dragonstone after they defeated Malefor. Such a thing is not so easily lost nor destroyed. If Spyro and Cynder can’t confirm the dragonstone was destroyed after Malefor’s defeat…then that would mean it’s lost. I doubt the grublins would know how to fully use it…but I’d rather not risk other hands possibly finding it.” Terrador frowned at the thought.

“Who else could find it, Terrador? The grublins…well, possibly. But like you said, they wouldn’t know how to use it to the fullest. The apes are gone, nothing more than living dead…incapable of care for anything except life energy. I can think of no one alive who would be able to make use of a dragonstone.” Volteer gave Terrador a curious look, but the earth guardian didn’t look as convinced.

“You’re right, I’m not sure Volteer…but I can’t shake the feeling that we’re not out of the woods yet.” Terrador grumbled. “Call it paranoia if you will, but I can’t simply pretend that Malefor’s death will usher in the age of peace we were hoping for. There’s a very clear power vacuum…should there be any opportunists in hiding, they may take advantage of the grublins lack of leadership.”

“Well…I’d never doubt you Terrador, not again. The last time the guardians doubted you…the last time Cyril and I doubted you, we were terribly unprepared for the temple raid.” Volteer said regretfully. “If we had listened to your warnings, perhaps we could have posed a better chance.”

Terrador shook his head.

“No, you and Cyril had no reason to believe me when I had no proof Gaul would lead such a risky attack into our lands. I was surprised that Ignitus believed the apes may try something…but in the end, none of us were truly prepared for what happened that night. You and Cyril weren’t at fault alone…like you said three years ago, we all failed.” Terrador reassured the electricity guradian.

“As you say…still, I’m sure you’re right that we shouldn’t ignore the dragonstone…but if we were to all agree, where would we begin looking? Spyro and Cynder confronted Malefor in the world’s core…unless it was destroyed, then it’s buried deep beneath the world’s crust.” Volteer pondered it a moment.

“Perhaps texts on the stones will shed some light on the matter.” Terrador shrugged some. “Or maybe it is buried…and perhaps we’re better off without it ever being found again. But I’d like for us to study whatever texts we can gather on them to prepare for the unlikely event it ever resurfaces.”

“Very wise Terrador…now then, Tempest my dear?” Volteer called up above, the electric dragoness poking her head over the ledge of the level she resided upon.

“Continue searching for whatever you can find on the dragonstones, bring it to the council hall once you think you’ve found an adequate number of texts!” He called to her, earning a smile and salute from his mate as she vanished back onto the library floor.

“I trust you were going to see Cyril next?” Volteer asked, earning a nod from Terrador as they started to walk to the door leading out of the grand library. “I believe he’s overseeing the construction in progress at the academy district today.”

“Indeed…some more matters to hash out with him with Nix and the others away...matters regarding the city’s current state that we need to address…likely he won’t be happy with what I wish for us to do, but he’ll simply need to get over it.” Terrador grunted as they pushed past the doors and back into the city.

“Oh, he’ll get over it, come then! We’ll seek Cyril out together my friend.” Volteer said cheerfully as the two dragons lifted off the ground with a flap of their wings, taking off into the rest of Warfang to seek out their ice dragon colleague.

Terrador and Volteer both came to the academy district, being given a grand view of the once grand Warfang Dragon Academy itself. In the old days of the great dragon kingdom, dragonlings and young-adult dragons would come from across the realm to seek their education at the academy.

The academy itself was a campus-like setup of structures which all surrounded the main school building. Several key buildings were the flight school, intended for young dragonlings to learn how to properly fly. The training grounds, where young dragons of various ages practiced their elemental powers and learned martial prowess if they were on the career path for such. Many other buildings served similar purposes for preparing each generation of dragons.

The constant sieges to Warfang led to damage progressively befalling the Eastern districts the most – leading to the rough, shoddy state both the academy and military district were now in. Disrepair grew further and further with each attack that came their way. The grublins and their crude siege weapons cared little for whatever they damaged with each siege they struck at Warfang with.

Each time, the few dragons in the city and the moles drove them back each time…but the grublins didn’t need to immediately win. Each battle took a toll on their forces and the city itself…the final vigil of Warfang began to look more and more rough after each hammer-strike Malefor sent their way.

Construction to the district was just as tediously moving as the military district and repair efforts to the wall. Months of effort lay ahead for the city with their workforce as limited as it currently was. The moles weren’t weak or inefficient…on the contrary. The moles were some of the most efficient builders and craftsmen in the entire realm, but without enmasse dragons supporting their workforce for a city of such large scale, the process would continue to be slow with them alone driving the way forward.

The two would soon spot the light blue ice dragon overlooking the progress the moles were making, standing above it all like a gargoyle. He was conversing with a pair of moles before dismissing them upon noticing his fellow guardians high in the sky overhead, likely on their way to see him of course.

When the two landed, Cyril merely offered a bow of his head.

“Terrador, Volteer- lovely day I think, what looms?” He’d ask of his colleagues, already quizzical and prepared for whatever matters they were likely bringing to him.

“Cyril…I was talking with some of the moles working on the walls…they had an idea that I think we should discuss. It may prove beneficial to getting Warfang back in shape…but I wished to run it by you first as you’re handling diplomatic matters in Nix’s stead.” Terrador said flatly, trying to not give Cyril any impressions as to his own stance.

“Of course, Terrador, let’s hear it then.” Cyril nodded, giving Terrador the greenlight.

“The stonemasons there agreed that we should bring in the Atlawa if possible, to get some master stone crafters working on Warfang alongside the moles. They believe the Atlawa may have a more efficient method of stonework which could greatly benefit us and shave time away from the current estimated time range the construction workers have put our progress at.” Terrador explained clearly, though the look Cyril gave off was less than impressed by the earth guardian’s offered idea.

“You wish us to change our current misfortunes by calling upon those shrine worshipping barbarians? I can’t stress enough that I disagree to the importance of having Atlawa support…I saw their buildings on Tall Plains personally and fail to see how their primitive architecture would benefit the moles and their hard work.” Cyril frowned, glancing back to the current hard-at-work moles still going about their jobs.

“Cyril the moles are no fools, and if they believe the Atlawa could help move the process along at a swifter pace, then we can’t dismiss the benefits of bringing them into the fold!” Terrador huffed. “Besides…our disconnection from the rest of the kingdom has gone on long enough, with the war over…for now, we must take efforts to reach out to the other races within the kingdom.”

“Cyril, you need to look past your odious pomposity for all our sakes. The dragons are in a shoddy state, and we cannot rely on ourselves or the moles alone to change our fortunes for the better. There’s no shame in admitting we need help…and right now, we desperately need help.” Volteer glared at the ice guardian, not pleased with his unwillingness to set pride aside even now.

“Pomposity?! What you call pomposity is the ice dragon culture, we never asked for aid and never expected it as we saw taking care of our own matters as our problem…no one else’s. We shouldn’t have to seek out other races for assistance. The moles have ever served valiantly, and we shouldn’t lose our faith in their ability! Should the mission teams return with dragons we won’t need further assistance!” Cyril’s gaze narrowed, meeting Volteer’s quickly as the two stood off against each other silently.

“Both of you knock it off!” Terrador growled, walloping them both with his string wings, returning the two to reality. “Cyril the reality is that we have no proof that Hunter or Nix will return with dragons at their backs. Even if they do, we shouldn’t remain isolated. Trade needs to flow and we must open the gates of Warfang to the world as we did in the days of old…first to restore the city and then to restore commerce.” Terrador grumbled, it wasn’t his area of specialization. He was a warrior and fighter, not a politician or diplomat.

He wondered how Ignitus could stand being both. Perhaps the fire guardian couldn’t stand the more political side of being the lead guardian but did it in stride anyway.

But if Ignitus managed to keep his head on and keep Terrador, Cyril, and Volteer in line and from losing hope…Terrador could do no less, lest he dishonor Ignitus’ faith in him.

Cyril and Volteer seemed to both back down, an uneasy silence between the two. Terrador desperately wished he had a fourth guardian to help keep heads level.

“…Very well, Terrador…I see your point. Much as I don’t fully agree, I’ll listen…and with Nix away from the city, I’ll handle sending messenger ravens. Now…where would you like me to send them to? I imagine Tall Plains of course. I’m sure Kane will be most thrilled to be receiving a message from dragons.” Cyril said both exhaustedly and sarcastically.

“Tall Plains and Munition’s Forge, Mole-yair’s people are experts at forge-work, we could use their help now that the war is over. Our smiths are few now…we could use their aid as well.” Terrador nodded his head slowly. “As well, they can help reinforce construction efforts with their metalwork. I’d like them to send representatives of their people to Warfang to discuss terms for their assistance in helping the dragon race.”

Cyril twitched ever so slightly, but he’d bow his head.

“As you say, Terrador…I’ll send out messenger ravens to the manweersmalls and atlawa…tell me am I sending out ravens to other races? Shall we send invites to the skavengers? Perhaps we can even think bigger and see if the elves still exist while we’re at it, hm?” Cyril asked sarcastically, earning a glance to Terrador from Volteer, but the earth guardian looked less than impressed.

“Nothing so fanciful…just go, now.” Terrador grunts, earning a bow from Cyril before the ice guardian took to the skies, making his way to the raven tower, the holding place of all the messenger ravens of the moles.

“You know, there aren’t any actual texts stating the elves are extinct…” Volteer mused. “They vanished long ago at the beginning of the Dark Master’s reign, but there’s no proof they were wiped out.”

“Irrelevant for now, Volteer. We’ve got more work to do…see to your affairs and meet me back at the council chambers.” Terrador ordered, earning a bow from Volteer as the electricity guardian flew off into the city, leaving the earth guardian to his thoughts.

The earth guardian seemed to tune out all the sounds of the bustling world around him, turning his green eyes to the sky to take in the open blue above him. Hardly any clouds in sight, foretelling of rainless days for the rest of the week…hopefully.

His thoughts drifted to Spyro and Cynder, part of him regretted having to send the two out on a mission back into the world so short after their return to the dragon city upon Malefor’s defeat…but if they came back successfully, he’d be more than happy to let them have time to rest in the city and time away from their duties.

Terrador could only silently hope the mission teams were successful…things would only get worse if they weren’t.

He shook off these feelings, he had work to do! With a flap of his massive wings and a kick of dust around him, the earth guardian would take flight and turn back to the Warfang Tower, returning to his chambers.

Spyro peaked over a jagged stone in the ground, covered in moss from so many years of being exposed to the elements now. His amethyst eyes scanned over what lay before him and his eyes widened in surprise.

“Spyro, do you see anything?” Cynder called to him, Sparx at her side now as they followed the purple dragon. The rest of their party was a short distance behind as the trio led the way forward through the swamp and up the river due north.

“Yes…the elder tree like Spherin mentioned…I’ve definitely seen this tree before!” Spyro called back, and soon enough the party would join them at their little perch overlooking the flowing Silver River and get them all a grand view of the elder tree. It was massive! Deep roots that connected to the ground which could make some large dragons look very small. From their angle, it almost looked to be the size of a small mountain…mere perspective playing tricks on the mind. All of this leading up to an autumn-colored top of leaves which blanketed the land as the sun began to slip past midday.

“What a grand view.” Galacion beamed up at the tree, earning a nod of agreement from Eletara.

“Wonder how old it is…” Storm would mutter, earning a scoff from Granite.

“Older than some elder dragons, I’d be willing to bet.” Granite grinned at the electricity dragon who gave him an eyeroll. Granite simply gave him a wide grin and a little laugh to accompany it.

“If we’ve found the elder tree, then that means we’re nearing our destination, yes?” Nix would ask ahead, earning a nod from Spyro.

“We are…now we need to divert eastward off the path and towards the coast as the elder said until we come to a pair of waterfalls leading down from a grass-covered mountainside.” Spyro would recount the next half of the elder dragonfly’s guiding instructions for them to use in their search for the hideout he had made for the dragons years ago.

“Then we press on, lead the way Spyro. We’re right behind you.” Nix said, gesturing to the dragons being led by Ulris to keep up. Ulris and his fellow guards were a bit out of their element, being put in the middle of a forest on paw rather than in the skies. But being in the air meant they risked not spotting their destination on the way up the river…they had to remain on the ground for the best chance of finding it.

Spyro would lead the group off the main path leading upriver, Cynder and Sparx at his flank even now as they walked through the autumn-colored woods as a group. He knew the coast wasn’t very far now, so hopefully their goal would be closer than they thought it would be.

“Spyro…?” Cynder asked softly, earning the purple dragon’s gaze as they walked, the rest of the dragons following behind but not being close enough to overhear their conversation.

“What’s on your mind?” He’d ask softly, not pausing as they walked to listen to her attentively.

“These dragons…well, if there are dragons here. Aren’t you worried what they’ll think…of me?” She asked, and the thought suddenly dawned in Spyro’s head…if there were dragons in hiding, then that would mean they hadn’t been around in the last few years to know about Cynder reverting to her true form, or even the end of the war…they would most undoubtedly have heard the name ‘Terror of the Skies’ however after the call to go into hiding was sent out.

“I…I can’t lie to you Cynder, I’m not sure how they’ll react. If there are dragons hiding out here, they’ll only know a war-torn world…not the prospect that the war is over and Malefor is gone. I’d say that…our best bet is letting Nix do the talking. I’ll help however I can, but I believe she’ll steer diplomacy right.” Spyro would give her an answer finally, pleased enough at the response he had given her.

“Man are they in for one heck of a surprise if we show up on their front door with this news.” Sparx said with a chuckle, earning a nod in agreement from Spyrp as they stayed together.

But Cynder still didn’t look entirely convinced.

“What if they…well, what if they don’t buy it and come after me?” She asked, a nervous look in her emerald eyes.

Spyro gave her a stern look, amethyst eyes serious now.

“I won’t let them…and none in our group will either…don’t think that way. If we find dragons in hiding, we tell them the truth and hope it all works out. We can only hope right now…” Spyro said softly, turning his gaze back to the path. Cynder seemed to calm down at his sentiment, eyes softening again as she followed along the path they were trekking.

Silence would follow as the group would keep marching through the autumn-colored woods for quite some time, the afternoon sun having time to settle further westward as the day passed on around them. The earlier cool morning breeze had been traded out for a warmer afternoon gust that grazed over their scales with every passing moment- like waves crashing against a beachhead.

Cynder would lightly inhale, relieving some tension in her muscles as they walked along beside Spyro.

Something caught her attention though as she inhaled.

“Spyro…do you smell that?” She asked, and he would in turn lean out to inhale as well. His eyes narrowed too, registering it.

“You guys smell something? All I smell is…well, nothing right now.” Sparx grinned.

“Seawater.” Cynder would reiterate.

“Yeah…if I had to guess we’re still a good distance away from the coast…but this means we’re getting closer.” Spyro would lean his head against the ground, getting low.

“What’re you doing Spy? Feeling sleepy that quickly?” Sparx asked, hovering near his brother as they held their head sideways to the ground, horns dragging against the grass some.

“No…quiet Sparx…I’m trying to listen with earth…” Spyro huffed as he held his head close to the ground. “I saw Hunter do this to feel vibrations in the earth, I should be able to use some of Terrador’s old lessons and apply them to this.”

Spyro would dig his claws into the very ground beneath him as he held his head close to the ground to listen for any and all vibrations. One he felt in particular felt like stamping, likely a group of deer or other wildlife…elsewhere he simply felt nothing but the stillness of the land all around him.

But something he could feel was a slow rushing of water pouring into the land beneath them and leading back to the Silver River from an underground network…he could almost feel the cool water rushing through the stone and soil far below them.

“I feel water rushing, we’re close!” Spyro called to the group who had stopped moving to allow the purple dragon their moment of pause after stopping to listen in. Spyro would begin rushing off down the path, Cynder quickly on his tail with Sparx reluctantly flying behind. The rest of the group quickly gave chase, not wishing to lose the trio in the brush.

Spyro charged through various twigs and branches in his way, even knocking down an entire bush as he pushed forward through the woods closer to the direction which he had heard the water rushing forth from.

“S-Spyro! Slow down!” Cynder called ahead, struggling to keep up with him as they rushed through the woods. She could hear the rest of the group struggling to stay with the purple dragon as well and rush through the woods after them.

“Can’t, we’re so close! I think…yes!” Spyro would cheer as he came to an opening in the woods, bring brought before a pair of massive falls…pouring down into a stream which poured underneath the land and into the network he had felt through…from a grassy-topped mountainside.

Cynder and soon after Sparx, Nix, and the rest of their party would reach the clearing, being given the grand view of the waterfalls which Elder Spherin had told them to seek out.

“We’re here…” Spyro said happily.

Chapter Text

Spyro was the first to pass through the falling water of the falls, but soon enough Cynder flew in and was at his side. Sparx flew through, shaking off water from his wings as he illuminated their surroundings…finding themselves in a cave of sorts.

“It’s clear for now, come on!” Spyro would call back towards the fall, signaling for the rest of their party to venture forth. Nix was the first, Granite and Galacion close by as they flew through after the older ice dragoness. Storm and Eletare followed shortly after too, and then Ulris and their guard dragons flew through the falls, shaking water from their scales.

“I can see why apes wouldn’t find this place…they were dimwitted and never knew where to truly look, even beneath their own noses.” Nix said confidently, but she earned a headshake from Cynder who looked back at her.

“Dimwitted as they were, Gaul was no fool…and I was very good at hunting dragons.” Cynder said grimly. “If they stayed hidden here, then Spherin gave them a goldmine location that not even the Terror of the Skies could find.”

“Perhaps a natural barrier was present and prevented them from being easily seen or smelled…we’ll find out once we arrive to this secret hideout for dragons, if they’re still here.” Storm commented, earning a nod from Eletara.

“Natural barrier…likely! Perhaps a wall? It would need to be very tall to avoid visual range of the Terror or dreadwing fliers…perhaps a combination? Dragons need an open sky or else they suffer from a lack of proper muscle and bone usage. We can only assume what kept them hidden for so long.” Eletara would add as they began to venture through the cavern…which felt strange to them as they all passed through. Spyro frowned as he thought about it some, Granite had a similar look too.

“Granite…” Spyro would say quietly. “…does this cavern feel almost…designed?” He’d ask, earning a thoughtful noise from Granite.

“The contours are too smooth to be a natural phenomenon…too smooth. This entire passage was carved to be able to fit adult dragons…that’s the only explanation I can think of which makes sense. No natural passage is conveniently this arched and smoothed out.” Granite commented.

“So, you think this place was created as a safe passage?” Galacion would ask gently, glancing about the walls with her icy-blue eyes.

“Count on it…and this?” Granite would point out something, more square-like stones placed into the sides of the passage. He’d trace his claws over it some before looking back at the group. “This was made deliberately by whoever came here before…to reinforce it against any earthquakes maybe.”

“Then we’re going in the right direction.” Spyro would comment, gesturing for the others to keep up as the group of dragons pressed on through the designed tunnel. Spyro couldn’t deny Granite’s observations, the place looked too…clean. Too spacious to be a coincidence for them passing through the cavern even now.

Cynder was silent for the most part as they walked together, not experienced enough with earth magic and how it could be manipulated- but if Granite said it was likely altered manually, then she believed them.

A bellowing roar rang out, filling the very cavern all around the party of dragons…and it sounded relatively close even despite the cavernous echoing. The dragons were all immediately on alert. Spines, frills, fins, wings, and other features went rigid as their fighting instincts began to kick in.

“Well, this place isn’t abandoned then…but that didn’t sound like a dragon.” Nix hissed, eying down the cavern dangerously as she extended her talon-like claws some.

“No…that was an ogre. Hurry!” Spyro called back to the others, Cynder and Sparx hot on his tail, despite the dragonfly’s complaints and wishes for the contrary of going directly towards the likely danger. Nix, Granite, Galacion, Storm, Eletara, Ulris, and his group of guards immediately giving chase after the trio as they ventured further and further down the hidden waterfall cavern.

Light began to peak from the corners of the cave, leading them to believe that they were coming to the end of the cave finally! They’d be right…as Spyro, Cynder, and Sparx turned around the last corner they’d be nearly blinded by the rays of light coming through the mouth, but still they pressed on determinedly. As the party came out of the cave, they’d be brought before a most unbelievable sight.

There was a grand valley of stone surrounding a medium-sized ecosystem, trees and lush grass hidden from all wandering eyes gazing upon it from the outside where the waterfall poured into the Silver River. From above, the open face of the valley shaded from the natural canopy of the elder tree from above, one of the long arms of it stretching over and concealing it. Water ran through the middle of the beautiful valley, also likely pouring into the Silver River likely…and to their collective shock, they spotted what looked like massive tent-like structures lining the entire place.

Their search had paid off.

“All this time, Sparx…all this time dragons were living under our very noses!” Spyro marveled at the sight- the land looked too tended to not be actively lived upon. The entire valley would have been overgrown and wild looking…much like the cavern, it was clear this place had gone through many changes over the years of occupation.

“It’s beautiful…” Cynder trailed off, emerald eyes taking in the land before her, such a natural phenomenon – even after being lived in, was still worthy of admiration for its beauty.

“So, dragons lived here the entire duration of the enmasse hiding order…” Galacion said incredulously. “A natural barrier…natural concealment. The perfect hiding place while being told to go into hiding for an extended duration.” The ice dragoness added.

They heard another outcry of grublin roars, the group spurred into action as they rushed from the mouth of the cave and towards the noises! It wasn’t long before the party of dragons found what looked like a stone barricade of sorts, designed for the protection of whatever else resided in the valley. But before the buffer in the way was a battlegroup of grublins. Some of the fodder, orcs, and an ogre which was bashing at the stone barricade even now to try and break through the wall.

They were more interested by the sight of a group of four dragons flying overhead, diving down above the group of grublins as they unleashed two torrents of fire, a boulder being dropped, and jolts of electricity all ripping through some of the smaller grublins. The magical attack had hurt the chaff but didn’t deter the main group of orcs or ogre in the slightest as they pressed the attack on the stone barricade!

“Dragons!” Nix called out. “By the ancestors…we found more of our kind!” She exclaimed happily, her eyes glittering some as she let out a sigh of relief.

“I don’t see more, these three may be the only ones out to fight, we need to help!” Spyro stated firmly, earning a nodding agreement from Granite.

“Agreed! Let’s handle this carefully.” Granite said firmly, putting himself at the forefront of their group. “Ulris, push in with your guards and cleave through those orcs to keep them off us. Spyro, Cynder, Galacion, and I will handle the ogre. Storm, Eletara- you both go airborne and hit the grublins from above!”

“And what of me?” Nix would ask, turning her cyan colored gaze to Granite, who looked a bit conflicted.

“My lady shouldn’t you sit the fight out? You’re our diplomat, I’d hate to put you at unnecessary risk.” Granite would show his chivalry as a former guard of the settlement some, but Nix shook her head.

“I am not so fragile that I cannot fight as well. Shall I push in with Ulris and his guards?” She asks while quickly throwing on her light armor as the others quickly were. The design was meant to be easily thrown on. Wrist-covers, ankle protection, midway down the back between the wings, over the face and snout, and the back of the neck. Everyone’s light plating was a dark gray, bearing no heraldry as it was simple and only intended for a traveling mission like theirs. In true battle the armor would do little, but this was in the moment, and they could quickly all throw it on.

“I…yes lady Nix, Ulris and his group of guards would be good for you.” Granite would relent some, giving the older ice dragoness a confirming nod. “If we’re all ready, then let’s do this!” Granite would cheer out before turning around, lowering his horns, and letting out a bellowing roar before leading the charge ahead! The rest of the group was after the earth dragon in an instant, Storm and Eletara taking to the sky as they flew directly at the group of grublins assaulting the barricade.

Granite was the first to enter the fight, his bull-like horns crashing through the crowd of grublins and orcs in his way, using his sheer muscle mass to plow his way through the foes, followed closely by Spyro, Cynder and Galacion towards the Ogre! Granite crashed into the monstrous beast like a wrecking-ball, slamming it into the barricade hard before backing off, giving the other three room to maneuver as he held the monster’s attention once it turned back around. The orcs and grublins in the mix turned to try and face the group but were quickly pulled away from the fight as Ulris and his guards, followed by Nix, rushed into the fray. A hurricane of fire, ice, earth and electricity rushed forth onto the orcs and grublin fodder- followed by cleaving claws, gnashing teeth, and bashing tails.

Storm and Eletara would dive down, unleashing a surge of electricity down into the group of little grublins, chain-shocking its way through their ranks as Ulris and his fighters could bash their way through the orcs. Nix would follow Ulris and his guards into the fray, her tail glazing over with glass-like ice as she’d swing it like a scythe to carve the orcs up like hot butter!

The ogre would swing its massive club-like fists for Granite, only for a wall of solid stone to be erected between the earth dragon and the monster, before a blast of fire crashed into the back of the ogre! It would swing another massive hand for the pesky purple dragon on their flank but find only empty space as Spyro quickly moved out of the way. A rather vicious glob of acid would then strike that same fist, causing the ogre to bellow out in pain! But still it fought on, slamming the ground again to try and squash the annoying dragons attacking it from every angle…leading to Galacion using a cheeky trick by raising ice spikes up from the ground, creating a rather nasty spike-trap for the ogre’s fists as they slammed their fists down right onto the jagged ice.

Storm glanced around, spotting the small group of dragons swooping above them further, noting that they had seemingly halted in their assault on the grublins for the moment, seemingly taken off-guard by the arrival of the new dragons! But soon enough, they’d fly back down, approaching the two electricity dragons hovering over the ongoing scrap.

The fire dragon at the lead of their group was the first Storm could make out. Crimson colored scales, a lighter underbelly, a set of horns which would one day be grand in appearance and red eyes.

The other fire dragon of the two was rather unique looking! Dark red scales with an almost golden underbelly and horns – not dissimilar to Spyro’s own. Their horns were rather a straight line rather than hooked or angled in any special way, their biggest depicting feature being their fiery blaze-like eyes.

The electricity dragon in their group wasn’t that different from Eletara in color. Bright yellow scales with a dark-blue underbelly and horns which wound around and around like a pair of spires…the key differenc being that at this range Storm and Eletara could tell they were a drake. The last of the four dragons was a lovely earthy-shade of green with a lighter shaded underbelly and tan-brown horns shaped like a crescent, fins atop their head in a similarly colored shade as their horns…a lovely set of blue eyes to them, very unlike an earth dragon. Storm and Eletara quickly deciphered that they were in fact a dragoness!

“Who are you?! Where did you come from?” The lead fire dragon would ask, they were all four no older than they were…in fact Storm’s critical eye almost squinted suspiciously…they looked a little younger as a matter of fact.

“I’m Eletara, and this is Storm! We were sent by the guardians from the city of Warfang to find more dragons in hiding…we had help. We came here and found the grublins attacking the stone wall there!” Eletara would point at the barricade where the group of dragons were doing battle with the grublins.

“Grublins? Is that what they’re called?” The earth dragoness asked, more wondering aloud really.

“Warfang? The dragon city?” The other fire dragon would also ask, this time looking directly at Storm, who could only nod.

“I don’t buy it! A group of dragons just magically turn up after this long and during an attack? Awfully convenient timing if you ask me!” The electricity dragon hissed, earning an eyeroll from the lead dragon.

“We’re not in a position to be picky, Typhoon! The rest of our combatants are still recovering, and we could use the help right about now!”  He fired back at the dragon they assumed was named Typhoon. “We can talk about why you’re here later…for now we kick these pests out of our home!”

“Agreed- our mission’s leader will be more than glad to deliberate once we’re out of this fight!” Storm stated before diving back down towards the battle, Eletara in tow. The other four dragons looked amongst each other before all shrugging and giving chase towards the duo.

The orcs were quickly starting to crumble and panic beneath the assault from Ulris, Nix, and the guards. Grublins may have been bred for war, but against fully trained dragons without a clear advantage in numbers they simply couldn’t match up! Blood flowed and the orcs were falling dead at every swing the dragons sent their way.

The little grublins were now under attack from Storm, Eletara, and the four dragons who they had rushed to the aid of. The little beasties were unable to match the assault of six young dragons.

The ogre, however, wasn’t going down without a fight. It would let out a bellowing roar as Granite charged right at them again, bringing their massive hands down to grab the earth dragon by the horns! Granite let out an earth-shock to keep the ogre from lifting him off the ground but had lost all momentum on the charge and was being held in place.

Spyro would lower his head as he went in for a comet dash, crashing right into the ogre’s side of the torso! Before the monster could turn any attention to Spyro, Galacion and Cynder landed onto their back, slicing and eviscerating the monstrous being’s stony flesh with their razor-sharp claws. Galacion would line hers with ice while Cynder’s own claws glowed with poisonous energy which cut through the ogre like paper.

It would bellow out again at the continued assault but would be toppled over once Granite regained his footing, digging his strong paws deeply into the ground beneath him before toppling the ogre over onto it’s back with a thud. Cynder and Galacion quickly vacated the monster’s back as they toppled over. Granite let out a groan as he stretched his neck, letting out a huff through his nostrils.

“Those things never seem to go down easily.” Spyro let out a relieved sigh.

Sparx, who had ducked for cover before the fight had even broken out, finally flew back out.

“Are we good? Fight over and done? Good…good…a little warning before going into a fight would be nice next time.” Sparx would say while glancing around.

“Well, you had plenty of time while we threw our armor on.” Spyro jabbed back at Sparx. “Besides, it never takes you very long to duck for cover.” He earned an eyeroll from Sparx.

“Give me about forty extra pounds and an actual muscle mass, then I’ll see about hitting back.” Sparx frowned.

“Hah…I haven’t seen action for quite some time. It has a way of making one feel younger again.” Nix would say with an exhale of cool air from her maw, cleaning her claws and tailblade of any dark blood which currently coated them. “Your mother still knows a few tricks, eh little glacier?” She asked of Galacion, whose icy-blue cheeks reddened.

“Mom!” She whined, clearly not as fond of the pet name.

Storm and Eletara would land, the other four dragons standing near them and simply looking upon the party from Warfang incredulously.

“Dragons…from outside our home. Maybe things are better out there than we ever predicted.” The lead fire dragon would comment.

“Maybe…you said you were from Warfang right? We’ve…only heard stories about the dragon city...and have vague memories.” The other fire dragon would ask now before his gaze fell on Spyro. “Woah…what the heck kind of dragon are you?”

The other two took quick note of Spyro’s scale color, as well as Cynder’s after a moment of silent contemplation.

“A purple dragon…” The earth dragoness spoke now. “But…that’s impossible. Our leader said that the purple dragon’s egg was likely destroyed the year of the dragon!" The earth dragoness stammered.

“I…our leader, she can explain everything. We need to report back to her…this is the third attack from these…’grublins’, as your friend here called them this week…they’ve been coming more frequently and we don’t have the spare fighters to keep up the defense.” The young lead fire dragon spoke.

Spyro eyed the young fire dragon curiously…something deep down was familiar about them. Cynder and Sparx could also sense it somewhat, giving the lead dragon another look over before shaking it off for now.

“Please, take us to them. If these attacks are becoming more frequent, then our mission couldn’t have come at a better time.” Nix would bow her head some. “You could use our help as much as we could use yours.”

“I still don’t like it…a group of dragons showing up here after all this time, and with some back from the dead purple dragon?” The electricity dragon snarled some. “And a black dragon! I don’t know about you three, but the last damn time we heard about a black dragon, it was to describe the Terror of the Skies!” He directed their attention back to Cynder.

Cynder flinched some at the mention of the Terror, Typhoon quickly approaching her- quickly met with the purple dragon putting himself between them both defensively.

“Typhoon, leave them alone! They just helped us out. We wouldn’t have been able to hold the gate without their aid.” The golden-horned fire dragon growled, going to put himself between Spyro and Cynder as well, the two dragons squaring up now.

“Get out of the way Flame, there’s something fishy about this and you’re about to let complete strangers into our home!” Typhoon huffed, before he was suddenly pulled back hard and onto his stomach as his legs fell from under him.

“Stand down, Typhoon!” The earth dragoness barked, having grabbed onto his tail. It was in this moment Granite actually took note of her…and quickly he felt his heart begin to speed up a little as he admired her beauty…he hadn’t seen another earth dragon close to his age before and it had caught him off guard.

He remained silent for now.

“Look the fact of the matter right now is that they helped us Typhoon, we take them back to the village…mother will see if we can trust them or not.” The original fire dragon would state, before giving the earth dragoness a nod. She’d turn her attention to the stone wall, mustering green energy from her paws before the barricade would go back down into the ground beneath them to reveal a clear path into the hidden valley.

“Impressive…a good chokepoint which prevented superior numbers from invading.” Ulris would state as their party would pass with the group of young dragons leading the way down the newly revealed path.

“It kept us safe, when these grublins appeared three years ago. We had never seen them before and were completely unprepared for them going around our natural defense.” The lead fire dragon would comment. “But our leader can go into better detail…come.” He’d say, gesturing for the Warfang party to keep up after their small group.

The journey further into the valley was mostly uneventful following the brawl which had broken out against the grublins at the gate. The four dragons which had met them there led the party from Warfang into the forest-thick gap of the valley, leading them to wonder just what they’d be seeing upon their arrival to this ‘village’.

Spryo glanced over, eyes finding Cynder as she walked nearby with Sparx hovering between them both…something still weighed on his mind, and Cynder could tell.

“What’s wrong?” She’d ask quietly, getting Spyro to break his train of thought now, meeting her gaze as Sparx listened in.

“Yeah bro you look a million miles away.” Sparx said quietly, noting their tone as it seemed they were trying to avoid being heard.

“I…I don’t know Cynder. But that dragon leading their group…there’s something so familiar about him that I can’t place.” Spyro murmured, noting Cynder didn’t give him a questioning look, same as Sparx.

“Actually…I sensed it too. Those eyes…the horn style? Something about them just feels like we’ve met them before.” Cynder agreed with the purple dragon, leading to his brows furrowing some as he went deep into thought again. “In fact, there was something almost familiar about all of them...”

“Even I kinda saw it…weird.” Sparx commented. The three would keep this to themselves for now however, not wishing to let the four dragons ahead of them listen in to their conversation regarding one of their own. Distrust was likely already high even as they spoke- they didn’t need to create further issues…especially with the electricity dragon who had come close to earning a fight from Spyro when getting closer to Cynder.

Nix and the others not far behind were having a different discussion of their own.

“Granite, my dear boy, what do you make of these dragons?” Nix asked quietly, earning a curious look from the earth dragon.

“Well, lady Nix, I can’t quite say. They’re good in a fight it seems, makes it seem they’ve been trained by someone with experience despite being in hiding for so long.” Granite would decipher, earning a nod from Nix.

“Indeed…this leads me to wonder who their leader is...and I can’t help but also note how young those dragons are. They look a little younger than you, Galacion, Storm and Eletara…right about Spyro and Cynder’s age, however…very curious.” Nix frowned some, deep in thought a moment.

Galacion raised a brow at her mother, questioning the line of thought she was on as she walked near Eletara and Storm.

“Mother must you be suspicious? Isn’t this what you were hoping for?” Galacion would ask curiously, earning a nod from Nix.

“Of course, dear, but I’m merely voicing my curiosity as to who has managed to keep this place hidden and safe for so long.” Nix responded to the younger ice dragoness.

“We’re here!” They heard from ahead, leading their gazes to the leading fire dragon as they came to a clearing in the trees, leading the two groups of dragons forward past the opening…what met them was nothing they could have anticipated.

The group of dragons from Warfang were brought before the view of what was the village mentioned by the four dragons they had met…dozens upon dozens of large tent-like structures made from natural resources of the forest around them. Lodgings made to suit dragons of various sizes, entire families seemingly!

There was a sizable patch of crops actively being tended to by earth dragons…young and old dragons flying above them and all around, more resided within the community…all walking and conversing amongst each other so casually that you’d not even be able to tell they had been in hiding for over a decade now.

“Dragons…so many dragons!” Sparx said out of pure shock! He was right, there had to be close to a hundred dragons residing within this hidden village.

“Spyro...this is exactly what we were hoping for!” Cynder said happily. “This…this changes everything!” She beamed, giving him an excited look. “It means I didn’t push us to extinction!”

Spyro just offered her a kind smile, rubbing her scaled shoulder some.

“I had hope and it paid off, but let’s get these dragons back on our side first. A lot of time has passed since last they were connected to the rest of the world…they may not like the idea of leaving for Warfang.” Spyro said gently. “But…I’m glad. This is good news…for all of us.”

“In all my years, such a vast community hiding somewhere so remote and hidden from the cares of the world…this mission is about to pay off.” Nix said with a relieved sigh.

“Keep up friends, we’re headed to the village leader’s camp.” The lead fire dragon would call back. They’d keep up after the four dragons, momentarily stopping as he exchanged a few words with the other fire and electricity dragons and the earth dragoness. They would all disperse and spread back out throughout the village, merging into the crowd as they all packed in and observed the group from Warfang, likely not having seen new dragons from the outside for many years. They could hear whispers and murmurs, likely wondering where they had come from. Was the war over? A purple dragon, what does it mean? A black dragoness?

They trudged off these questions, moving along after the mysterious fire dragon they had met at the gate, pushing through the crowd. Ulris and his guards quickly moved to surround their entire group on each flank to avoid some of the other dragons crossing in their way.

It baffled Spyro to see so many dragons…at one point he could only count the dragons he knew on two paws…then the ones he had met on more. But now…after so long, he could say he had seen a community of his own kind. Cynder felt similarly…though she was more remorseful than impressed, relieved that she hadn’t sent their own race to the point of true extinction. There would still be work to do…but the first hurdle remained: convincing these dragons to return to Warfang.

When they arrived to the village leader’s home, they’d find a large wooden lodge neatly packed in at the very end of the community, a makeshift door separating them from passing inside. The fire dragon would open the door slowly, before turning back to the others.

“I must ask only a small choice few to enter at once, this home doesn’t have room for everyone here.” He said simply, noting how they looked around at each other.

“Ulris, remain out here with your guards. Eletara, Storm, Granite…you three remain with the guards as well. Galacion dear, it would do well for you to shadow me for this.” She smiles down at the younger ice dragoness…who missed the almost admiring gaze of the fire dragon as he waited on them to decide who would be going in. He seemed almost hypnotized by Galacion now as Nix addressed her, quickly averting his gaze the moment she looked back towards the door.

Ulris would simply nod, he and his guards forming a small formation outside the domicile together to ensure the proceedings couldn’t be listened in in by the outside crowd, though that didn’t stop some of the village’s dragons from coming up and speaking to them…which the guards actually seemed thankful for.

“Yes ma’am, we’ll be here!” Granite would give her a little salute, earning an eyeroll from Storm. Eletara on the other hand was positively elated at seeing the vast community of dragons before them. She studied the homes and their community, admiring the ingenuity of their kind with a lack to proper building materials and ways to make well-designed architecture.

“Spyro, Cynder – you two come along as well.” Nix turned to them as well, earning nods from Spyro and Cynder…and a frown from Sparx, which she quickly addressed. “And…you as well Sparx.” She corrected, earning a more pleased nod from the dragonfly.

The fire dragon would give them a confirming nod to lead their group into the home, closing the door behind them to ensure their conversation was kept private for now.

The home was simple...only a few possessions remained inside, pieces of armor strewn about, a small reservoir of water inside to provide safe drinking water, blankets and pillows, and other such items of varying importance. Near the center of the building was a fireplace…and resting near the flame was an elder fire dragoness.

She’d hear the approaching group, eyes opening to reveal a pair of bright emerald eyes…a similar shade to Cynder’s own which grandly contrasted from her red scales.

“…mother, I’m home. The situation at the gate was handled.” The fire drake would say softly, not wishing to alert her, though her gaze fell upon the group behind him.

“Well done, Ignius, though I worry the attacks will keep coming at a more frequent rate judging from the last few attacks…troubling with our fighters healing and recovering. But before we talk about that, please enlighten me to these strangers…” Her eyes fell upon Spyro in that instant, her muscles seizing up in that instant…this didn’t stop when she spotted Sparx, and then Cynder…her eyes narrowed some at seeing the black dragoness.

“By the ancestors…Magnacia?!” Nix would ask incredulously, earning a quick look from the fire dragoness now.

“Well now…it’s been a long time, Nix.” The fire dragoness cracked a weak smile. “I hope Cyril is well.” Magnacia said simply.

“You know each other?” Galacion asked gently, earning a nod from her mother.

“A long time ago…Galacion dear, Spyro, Cynder…Sparx, meet Magnacia…once a caretaker of the old dragon temple…mate of Ignitus.” Nix said calmly.

The reaction was almost instantaneous!

Galacion was merely surprised at hearing the dragoness’ relevance to the temple. Sparx’s eyes bulged widely at the mention of the deceased fire dragon, his throat suddenly becoming dry.

Cynder’s eyes moistened some, feeling as though she had been slapped by a revelation…while Spyro seemed to go still and cold, his eyes indescribable and unreadable…almost like he was trying to come to terms with this information…but then his eyes fell upon Ignius.

“Ignitus’…mate? You called her mother…does that mean you’re his…?” Spyro trailed off quietly, earning a curt nod from Ignius.

“His son. I was only a child when last I saw my father before mother took me and others into hiding.” He explained. Magnacia seemed to shift uncomfortably at the mention of her mate, clearing her throat as she lifted herself onto her haunches. Spyro and Cynder met eyes, the black dragoness showing worry for the purple dragon as his eyes seemed to almost sadden at the mention of Ignitus…and now being face-to-face with his own family.

A family they never knew he had.

“Judging from your reactions and your arrival to the village, there’s news from the outside...and not all good.” Magnacia said firmly, turning her attention back to Nix. “Why are you here Nix? We stopped receiving reports from the outside years ago once I decided scout parties were too dangerous to keep risking with the Terror looming in the skies above.”

“My dear Magnacia…we bring news from Warfang. The war is over…but we were sent to find dragons. Our race is on the brink of collapse should we not consolidate our numbers. There are no more than thirty dragons left in the city…to put it in simple terms…we need you to come home.” Nix said softly, slipping into her diplomatic side.

The first bit of news caught the fire dragoness off-guard, her emerald-colored eyes widening.

“The war i-is…o-over?” She asked, not truly able to wrap her head around it. “It…but that would mean that Malefor is…”

“Dead.” Spyro would interject. “At least…gone. Cynder and I were there-.” Spyro would add, but the mention of that second name caused her eyes to flare up some.

“Cynder? The same Cynder who terrorized our race and drove us into hiding?!” Magnacia hissed, her eyes now on Cynder as she craned her long neck and head down to her level. That intense stare had Cynder shrinking down some.

“And you!” Magnacia would hiss as she turned to face Spyro. “The other purple dragon…your egg was lost but nineteen years later here you are!” She turns her gaze to Nix. “I want answers, now!”

“Mom!” Ignius would shout, cutting the elder fire dragoness off as she snapped her gaze to the young drake, her gaze softening in an instant as he gave her a pleading look.

“I…I’m sorry…that was unworthy of me. That was just…a lot to process in a short moment.” Magnacia seemed to collect her bearings with a slow inhale and exhale. “But…I need answers…perhaps we could begin with the purple dragon and where they were after the temple raid.”

“The purple dragon’s egg was sent adrift down the Silver River by Ignitus as you know. The dragonflies had him the whole time Magnacia…under our very noses they raised him as one of their own for sixteen years. He found Ignitus following the collapse of the dragon vanguard…from there much changed.” Nix would go into the story briefly.

“The dragonflies? Hah…a few leagues away from here. They did well with keeping you hidden from the apes.” Ignius commented, earning a slight nod from his mother.

“Indeed…and how does the former Terror of the Skies play into this?” Magnacia’s eyes fell upon Cynder once again, the black dragoness shrinking away again before Spyro placed a comforting paw on her shoulder, a wing draping over her back.

“Hey, could we get a little less bark and a little more niceness? Harping on her is my job!” Sparx would protest, earning a curious look from Magnacia.

“And who is this? Some companion of the purple dragon?” She’d ask.

“I’m Spyro’s brother actually…older brother!” Sparx would puff out his chest.

“Interesting…Spyro is his name.” The elder fire dragoness would say before turning her gaze back to the other three dragons present.

“I faced her when she was still under Malefor’s control, Magnacia. Ignitus saved my life to ensure I could train enough to challenge her in the realm of convexity…when the fight was over, she reverted to her true form, though the mark of his influence remained.” Spyro explained the early part of his tale.

“So, you’re the Cynder?” Ignius asked Cynder, earning a sheepish look from her.

“…I am.” Cynder said simply. “I’m not proud of what I’ve done, but it’s why I’m here now.” Cynder shook off her fear of Magnacia’s scrutinizing stare as she finally looked back, taking comfort in Spyro’s proximity to her and Sparx’s encouraging words prior. “I know many will have any and all reasons to hate me…but I will serve so long as it is asked of me to pay penance back to the race of dragons. So long as Spyro and the guardians believe in me…I’ll do what I can to prove myself worthy of that trust…the same trust Ignitus placed in me.”

That caught Magnacia’s interest.

“Ignitus trusted you?” She asked simply, her voice almost stiff.

Spyro, Nix, and Sparx all gave her a nod, but Cynder’s words were what the fire dragoness was waiting for.

“Ignitus placed his trust in me before all the other guardians…I’ll never forget the first words he said to me when we woke up following Spyro freeing me.” Cynder said softly, earning another curious brow from Magnacia.

“What did he say?” She asked the black dragoness.

“He said to me ‘ever since I failed the night of the raid, I've dreamed of this day.’ He didn’t blame me for everything I had done…he could have. He said he wanted nothing more than to apologize for failing to protect my egg when Gaul stole it…the fact that he could have blamed me in a thousand different ways but didn’t…I can do no less than do everything I can to prove worthy of his trust.” Cynder finished, almost feeling as though a stray tear would roll down her cheek.

Magnacia let out a heavy sigh.

“That does sound like him…and from the way you speak, I can only assume the worst has happened.” Magnacia said sadly.

“What do you mean mom?” Ignius asked worriedly, earning a regretful look from the older dragoness.

“Ignius, why don’t you go see to the others to help them get settled in…they’ll be our guests for dinner tonight…and then I’ll explain it after I make the announcement to the village…we’re leaving for Warfang tomorrow.” Magnacia said flatly, earning a stunned look from the young drake.

“Leaving? I – well, mom I just…we’re leaving?” He asked hesitantly.

“Yes dear…see to our guests and your friends. Spread the word but don’t say anything officially…be a good lad and do as I say.” She patted him on the shoulder, earning a frustrated huff from the young drake as he’d vacate the domicile, leaving the others there in silence.

“Very much his father’s son.” She said with a weak smile. “Now, Nix…you say the war is over? I assume this ties to when the world gave off that awful tremble that felt as though it would split the land apart. We’ll speak of that later…but if what you say is true and Malefor is gone…then the world can finally begin to heal…though after the collapse of our forces and the order to go into hiding, I imagine our numbers are dwindling.”

“They are, Mags…” Nix said simply, catching Magnacia’s attention- likely a pet name she hadn’t heard in a long time.

“Then I cannot ignore the plea of our race. This has been our home for over a decade now…but our true home has always been Warfang and the rest of our old kingdom. It’s past time we returned to the rest of the world.” Magnacia sighed. “Truth be told, I’ve tired of remaining in hiding…especially with our home no longer being a secret, with those creatures pressing on our natural barrier now.” Magnacia huffed.

“The grublins, we helped drive them off when we arrived.” Spyro said firmly.

“They’ve been attacking us for three years now…we still haven’t figured out how they found us while the apes failed to for over a decade.” Magnacia rubbed her chin tiredly.

“Well…the apes are gone and the grublins were the race to take up the mantle as Malefor’s cannon fodder. They excel in mountains and underground…it makes sense as to how they found you. They likely tracked you through the earth until they found this place.” Spyro would build upon his previous statement.

“They’re ugly and smelly, fits perfectly as the lackies to someone who called themself the ‘Dark Master’.” Sparx jested, though he was also being somewhat serious.

“The apes are all gone? After so many years during the long war…just like that? Why?” Magnacia asked.

“They stopped being useful to him.” Cynder said coldly, her expression hardening some. “He tends to do that with his servants who he can no longer control.”

“I see…” Her gaze would look to Nix. “Settle in Nix…we need to have a long chat. You three may go, meet the other young dragons here with your group you brought here…we have things to discuss before I make the public announcement regarding our departure.”

“Of course…you three go on, clean yourselves up some. We are their guests tonight…be on your best behavior.” Nix said softly, gesturing towards the door.

“I…yes, Magnacia. Yes Nix.” Spyro said softly, getting up to approach the door with Cynder and Sparx close by.

As he placed a paw on the door, she’d clear her throat.

“One last thing…” She cut in, drawing their gazes back. Nix remained silent as Magnacia spoke again. “Tell me one think, Spyro…my husband…how did he die?”

Spyro froze some, clearly not prepared to answer her question in that instant…but the purple dragon thought about it for a long moment, trying to find the right words to tell her.

Cynder grazed his shoulder with a paw, giving him a comforting look as she did her best to console him…as though those emerald eyes were silently telling him all the right words to tell Magnacia.

“Ignitus…he died a hero. He sacrificed much of his strength to ensure we could pass through the belt of fire…and then when Cynder and I were doing battle with Malefor, he came to our aid. We would have died, Malefor prepared to deliver a killing blow…but…” Spyro trailed off, as if hesitating to mention what came next.

“But…?” Magnacia asked quickly, her eyes growing sadder.

“…he threw himself in the way. We were only able to defeat Malefor that day because of him.” Spyro said sadly.

Magnacia just whimpered some, turning to the wall as she’d turn around a frame which had been flipped around against the wall to reveal a portrait of her and Ignitus together…they looked younger in the painted piece…Spyro could only admire how happy Ignitus looked in the painting…how happy they both looked.

Cynder took note of the painting…but she instead noticed the droplet that fell on the ground beneath them…a single tear from the fire dragoness.

“He indeed died a hero…he wished for nothing less…I take more comfort in that…more than you could ever imagine. I always feared he’d die before the war was over…but I just…nobody can ever prepare to learn such a thing.” She lightly sobbed some, back still turned to the two young dragons and Sparx.

“Leave us…” She says quietly, the door opening and closing in that instant as Spyro, Cynder, and Sparx left them in that instant. They didn’t wish to push the older fire dragoness further…she needed to grieve for now. There was much more to do and she needed time.

Chapter Text

Spyro and Cynder would step out of Magnacia’s domicile slowly, Sparx hovering after them as they stepped back into the dragon village outside. They were immediately greeted by the sight of the residents going about their business finally…it seemed Ignius and the others had done a good job of elating everyone and sending them all on their way. They spotted Granite, Galacion, Storm, and Eletara standing near all the dragon guards from the Warfang Guard.

Granite would notice them leave the tent first, perking up some. He didn’t like being stared at like a marvel and wonder it seemed.

“Ah, there you two are…where’s Nix?” He asked of the three as they emerged. “That fire dragon left a moment ago as well, seemed to be talking to some of the others we met.”

“She’s inside speaking with their leader, Magnacia…our mission was a success. We found new dragons but…” Spyro trailed off, letting out a said sigh.

“But…? Are you three okay?” Granite asked, noting the somber look on their faces now after emerging from the domicile.

“We’re fine Granite…the mission has paid off and we’ve found dragons to bring back to Warfang…but their leader, she was Ignitus’ mate…it was just a lot all at once. That fire dragon…he’s their son.” Cynder would say softly, a wing draping over Spyro’s back some to offer comfort to the purple dragon.

Granite furrowed his scaled brows, contemplating this information for a few moments. Galacion and the others had heard, slowly forming up around the two and Sparx.

“I see…that’s a lot yeah. I’m sorry you two haven’t gotten the chance to put some time between yourselves and what happened to him.” Granite would finally say, breaking his silence.

“What did happen to Ignitus, if you don’t mind us asking?” Galacion asked quietly. Sparx was curious himself, not being able to venture past the belt of fire with Spyro and Cynder as Ignitus led them onward. “We know this is a sensitive topic for you both…but we want to help!”

Cynder said nothing, but Spyro finally cleared his throat again to speak.

“It’s still too raw of a topic for us Galacion.” Spyro said heavily. “Telling what happened to Ignitus means starting with our initial encounter with Malefor…I’m just not ready to tell that story so soon. I only told Magnacia, and plan to tell Ignius, because they were Ignitus’ family…and the guardians, well…they had to know what happened.”

Cynder just offered a simple nod.

“It’s a sensitive topic for both of us…give us some time and I promise we’ll sit down with you guys to tell the story.” Cynder said softly, earning some content nods from the others in their group.

Sparx felt his own mood dampen, wishing he had been able to at least be there with Spyro and Cynder…he wouldn’t have been much help, but seeing Ignitus go down was something even he had a hard time coming to terms with.

“Ancestors…you guys had it rough before we met you…I’m sorry.” Storm would say, placing a paw on Spyro’s shoulder. He felt bad still, having asked them about their battle with Malefor prior…now knowing they had good reason to keep quiet about it. “And Ignitus’ wife has been leading this hidden holdout for all these dragons?”

“Makes me wonder how they could have remained hidden for so long…” Sparx muttered, trying to change the subject and improve moods again. “You’d think anyone just flying up could spot a bunch of colorful dragons roaming about a valley.”

“Logical to presume that the massive tree near this location provided a natural concealment for anyone living here.” Eletara would speak up now, rubbing her scaled chin some while looking around the dragon village.

“You’d be right.” The voice of Ignius alerted the group of young dragons, drawing their attention to the young fire dragon. “The tree provided a natural protection to mother’s sanctuary and kept us hidden from the apes…and the Terror of the Skies. Though, there were a few close calls over the years.”

Ignius’ face would soften some, seeing that the group was in a more somber state, and wishing to ease them some. After all, this was the first time he’d met dragons near his age from the outside in nearly an entire decade!

Galacion’s eyes narrowed a little, peacefully of course, as she studied the young fire drake. He was definitely a little younger than they were, a bit smaller than Storm and Granite…but he had a noble look to him…this made sense considering he was the apparent son of Ignitus. She had never met the former fire guardian, but she had heard many great things about him.

“Come join me and my friends by our bonfire, I want you meet all of them.” Ignius would gesture for them to all follow him. Granite just shrugged, not one to pass up the chance at meeting new dragons. Galacion and Eletara would soon follow after…Storm looked far more reluctant before he relented and jogged to keep up with Eletara.

Spyro would glance back at Ulris, the older dragon and his fellow guards not moving.

“Coming Ulris?” He’d ask, earning a small laugh from the older dragon.

“Ah, I appreciate the thought Spyro…but you lot go enjoy yourselves. There’s a time and place for the elders to spend time with the young…and now isn’t the time. We’ll wait for lady Nix to emerge.”

“Very well Ulris, we’ll be nearby if you need us.” Cynder would smile, gesturing to Spyro for him to keep up as they were falling behind the rest of the group.

Sparx was still contemplating if he’d be going or not, letting out a sigh as he relented.

“Dang it, more dragons I gotta meet!” He huffed, flying after the group with a buzz of his wings!

Ignius would soon lead the group through the length of the village to the outlying ‘district’ of sorts, drawing their collective eyes to the large fire that was lighting up the area. Several dragons would continue to whisper as Spyro and Cynder passed…they could make out some.

More whispers regarding if Spyro was the legendary dragon to end Malefor once and for all…if Cynder was the Terror reborn…why they traveled with a dragonfly. So many questions which they had no answers for…but for now, they all kept their distance as it seemed Ignius had brought them all under his wing for the night.

The dragons the lot of them saw around the fire brought them back to reality some. There was the earth dragoness along with the other fire and electricity drakes they had met at the gate to drive back the grublins after their arrival…but there was another figure among their ranks.

A pink dragoness of all the things they could ever imagine!

Hunter slowly crept along the ground, bow and blade strung and stowed away as he kept low. The cheetah would silently move through the brush of the Ancient Grove’s outskirts, the rest of his entourage of cheetahs and three moles. They had been following the grublins to the grove ever since they first encountered them in the grassland beyond Warfang’s border…finding it peculiar that they were also headed to the same location.

As far as their entire group could tell, the grublins really had no prime directive or tactical objective in the grove.

That was, until they started to notice the amassing groups of grublins venturing into the grove…more and more flooding in by the dozen. It had started with simple small parties headed towards the grove from the grasslands, leading them to believe they were traveling with a purpose. But the location made little sense as to why the grublins would care, they all knew it.

This was way too big of a coincidence…and Hunter now had a terrible feeling that they had accidentally stumbled onto something far bigger than they had expected.

“Captain Hunter!” One of the cheetahs whispered. “These grublins…they’re amassing in far greater numbers than we could have anticipated. Should we report back to Warfang?”

“No…not yet.” Hunter said, not satisfied. “I want to know why these grublins are assembling in the Ancient Grove…it’s been just over a week since Malefor’s defeat…they shouldn’t be gathering in significant numbers again for a time.” He’d rub his chin some, expert eyes scanning and following a group of orcs marching through the grove. “I believe something else guides their actions…”

“Then shouldn’t we report back to Warfang, master Hunter?” One of the moles asked, ducking low in the brush they used to conceal themselves…but Hunter still wasn’t convinced.

“Not yet I said, I won’t return to Warfang without any progress on our goal. Keep moving…slowly.” Hunter would order, hand-signaling the others to crawl after him as he crept forward across the ground.

The very air of the ancient grove was almost alien to the group, dark ominous clouds concealing the sky, various plants not native to anywhere else in the dragon realm…creatures and insects of varying levels of danger. The very air of the place was heavy and warned of risks when entering the region.

“What do you think the grublins are doing here, captain?” Another quiet cheetah would ask softly. “Do you think they seek the same quarry?”

“Perhaps they know something we don’t…regardless, we’ll keep after them…slowly.” He’d add, gesturing for them to follow once again. The group would start to slowly crawl through the twisted brush, avoiding causing unnecessary noises and giving their position away while keeping after the grublins close enough to keep an eye on their movements.

The noises all around them had the cheetahs and moles glancing around in worry with each passing second. Screeches from various wildlife, grunting sounds from the grublins…speaking in their unnatural and unrecognizable language. Every little creaking of leaves and twigs had the party looking around in potential fear.

Hunter couldn’t help but worry if he was making the right choice or not, leading his party into the deep of one of the most dangerous regions in the realm off of a hunch could backfire instantly…but he had a nagging suspicion that there was far more to this mystery than they could see on the surface level. The sheer magnitude behind what had the grublins assembling in such a place was huge!

Imagine if there was already an opportunistic hand guiding their simple minds? Who could organize them so quickly after their master and creator’s defeat? What would draw them here? He didn’t know and that uncertainty drove the cheetah further and further…he had to know the truth. If he couldn’t find dragons in this forbidden place, he would at least get to the bottom of this grublin mystery.

What would Ignitus do in his place? What would Prowlus do?

He almost scoffed at the idea…he had nothing but respect for his chief, but Prowlus would sooner shelter up and never explore the unknown. He hated to think negatively of his own chief…but Prowlus was originally content to let the dragons stand alone in the world’s darkest hour at the most pivotal moment…he was certain the city’s defense would have crumbled without the arrival of the cheetahs.

As for Ignitus…he felt he was doing as the former fire guardian would do: proceed with caution. The old fire dragon who placed his faith in Hunter years ago did so because he was skilled in the ways of stealth, subtlety…a cheetah’s keen sense of smell and hearing also helped but Hunter was in a league of his own when compared to any others of his kind…bar Prowlus. There was a reason he was Chief after all.

The party would continue to slowly crawl and creep their way through the grove’s brush to try and find a meeting point for the grublins…as far as they could tell, they moved further south-west into the grove…if something was directing them here, perhaps that was also a good sign that they were on the right track?

Why would the grublins commit to coming to the grove for no purpose. They loathed being above ground longer than necessary…they had to be searching for a new quarry to hunt and fight, knowing Warfang would only mean their defeat should they throw themselves at the city without any true direction.

Far deeper in the Ancient Grove…something stirred…someone.

A dark dragon wreathed in shadows with inky black scales, blue tattoos lining his entire body…and icy blue eyes…stood high on vigil above his subordinate grublins as they amassed before him in the dark forest of the grove.

He nearly spat in repulsion for the abhorring creatures that flocked to him after he had made landfall in the mainland…but Malefor didn’t make these creatures for social graces after all…this was an army bred for war, and he planned to make the most of them.

“All assembled parties, begin fanning out further to continue the search! I want the hidden loyalists unrooted and burned out!” He’d bark out, a dark echo following his every word while speaking. “Continue looking for any signs of dragons! Our advanced scouts say two search parties were sent from that dammed city and that one of them was headed this way.”

The grublins from below would wordlessly heed his orders, their parties splitting off as they’d begin their searches through the grove. How he wanted to take his forces and wipe Warfang off the map…but for all his strength, he knew a siege was doomed to fail against the wall of the great dragon city…even damaged.

The grublins had come to him in droves once they sensed his arrival to the mainland…getting their loyalty had been simple enough for the shadowy dragon. Their leaders had some semblance of intelligence, just enough for him to manipulate them to his cause. His appearance alone marked him as different from other dragons.

One of the larger grublins would approach him, speaking in their strange language to the shadowy dragon.

“<Lord Adimere, parties have found nothing to the southern parts along the coast.>” It spoke in their native, near incomprehensible language.

“Then look again!” He spat back at the grublin, dismissing it from his side in an instant. He silently cursed at the incompetence of Malefor’s creations…questioning his every motive behind their design.

‘Eugh…why Malefor saw to replace the Apes with these creatures…I’ll never understand. The apes under their warlords at least had a modicum of organization to them…these creatures fall apart the moment they have no guiding hand.’ He monologued internally. ‘Perhaps he wanted less loose ends upon his return…’

Another one of the larger orc champions approached, this one adorned in heavy crudely crafted plate armor.

“<My lord, some of our new arrivals reported what looked like feline creatures stalking through the grove but failed to find anything further.>” It spoke more fluently than most of the other commanders…perhaps he’d see if they followed a reward through promotion system.

“Feline…the cheetahs. The guardians have sent others to do their dirty work and look for more of their kind…and now they’ve reached the grove. Good. Find them immediately, if we’re lucky…we can use them.” Adimere would say firmly, sending the grublin leader off as they’d go to rejoin their own group.

Now alone, he could only think in silence…finally being given a moment of peace from the grublins…he had hoped for so much more of the servants of Malefor…but he was working with bits and pieces of Malefor’s fractured legions. All that kept them from breaking off into warbands was the vacancy of Malefor being filled so quickly following his downfall…the grublins had already dispersed far and wide in a week’s time since their master was defeated by Spyro and Cynder.

‘Those two…’ He clutched a claw, thinking about it. ‘The traitor and the pretender…first the guardians, then those two…’

Spyro, Cynder, Sparx, and the others were positively flabbergasted! A pink dragoness! Such a color was unheard of! But soon their shock was interrupted as Granite shook it off.

“Good looking group here!” Granite said cheerfully, going to take a seat between the green dragoness and the electricity drake they had met earlier, ever his social self.

“Big guy knows no strangers.” Galacion muttered, laughing some as she’d go to take a seat study the available seats around the fire.

“Please, find seats all of you!” Ignius smiled, welcoming them all to the fire.

Eletara and Storm took seats on the opposing end of the other fire drake and the pink dragoness, putting themselves between the two and the electricity drake. That left one good space for Spyro and Cynder, who both sat down next to the unknown fire drake they’d met at the entrance and the pink dragoness…Sparx simply hovered between the two as he looked over the new dragons.

Ignius had a gladdened look to him…despite the dreadful news Spyro and Cynder likely had to share with him, he didn’t seem fazed and was more interested in what they were presently doing. Perhaps this was a shield to thwart against the inevitability of hearing the news they had to share…information regarding his father could wait for now though.

Galacion however had yet to take a seat, seemingly struggling to make her pick as she couldn’t decide who she wished to sit next to…and Ignius took full notice of the ice dragoness’ conundrum.

“Would you like to sit next to me?” He’d ask softly, unable to prevent a sideways grin from crossing his expression as he gestured to the beautiful ice dragoness…deep down he could barely take his eyes off of her. Her nearly translucent icy blue scales, the silver jewelry she wore despite being minimal…it was a combination for regal beauty.

Galacion felt her cheeks warm up some, nodding as she’d slowly step to Ignius’ flank, taking a seat on her haunches next to Ignius.

“Thanks…” She said quietly, giving him a kind smile in response.

“To those from Warfang, we welcome you all with open paws and I want to have those of us from the village introduce ourselves to you and go from there! To those who didn’t catch my name, I’m Ignius, son of Magnacia and Ignitus. For two years I’ve been apart of the dragons dedicated to protecting this village like the other three you lot met at the entrance…unfortunately you caught us on a bad day. The rest of our fighters are still recovering.”

He'd then turn to the earth dragoness next to Granite, who gave her a cheeky grin. She just brushed a claw against her crescent shaped horns as she was already greeted to Granite’s contagious behavior, turning away to hide the rosy tint that marked against her green scales.

“I’m Emera, one of the village’s younger defenders.” She introduced herself, earning a grin and nod of greeting from the others from Warfang. “My family is one of the originals which Magnacia led here.”

Cynder and Spyro glanced at the fire drake and dragoness on their flank…also taking note of how Ignius looked.

“Spyro…” She whispered to him, getting his attention as he leaned in closer. Sparx furrowed a brow as he flew in closer. “Unlike Granite and the others, those two do look our age…you don’t think…?”

“I don’t know for sure…but I can’t say I wasn’t thinking it either.” He whispered back to her.

“Well, you could just ask them and not whisper about it like weirdos.” Sparx suggested with a shrug, earning an eyeroll from them both.

Ignius gaze then turned to the electricity dragon, giving him a sterner expression now…the lot from Warfang could sense some tension between the two.

“I’m Typhoon, son of Vaegis and Septra…” He’d start, his voice a bit less strained than it had been at the entry when they met…and crossed paths against Cynder.

“Typhoon…” Ignius’ gaze hardened a bit more, earning an eyeroll and sigh from the other drake.

“And I’m sorry for my behavior at the gate…” He said painfully slow and quietly, Spyro frowned as he could tell the drake likely didn’t mean a single word of it…but he appreciated Ignius for holding him accountable.

“Apology accepted…I know my appearance doesn’t inspire trust at first glance…knowing recent history.” Cynder said sheepishly.

Then it was to the pair of fire dragons Spyro and Cynder were sat down next to, the drake clearing his throat first.

“Well, I’m Flame, a defender of the village like Ignius and the others here…I’m just new to it is all.” He grinned toothily. “But I sure did manage to kick some monster butt today!” Flame said confidently.

The group took a longer look at the pink dragoness now…bright pink scales of course, a light near-white underbelly and wing membrane tone, a purplish set of spined fins going down between her horns and down her back, leading close to her tail. She was a little shorter than Flame was, nor as rounded as he was…it was clear he’d one day be a rather large drake despite his age. She however looked like she was destined to be smaller on average than other dragonesses.

Finishing off her look was the pair of dark horns that went out behind her crown and angled upward towards the back of her head…perhaps most peculiar of her features though was the end of her tail. It wasn’t a standard tail-blade or thorn-like shape…but a heart shape!

Just what kind of dragoness was this?

She shrunk down sheepishly under the eyes of everyone on her, so many new faces and it was clear she hadn’t been expecting this turn of events!

“Hi…I’m E-Ember.” She waved a paw shyly, earning a collective smile from the newcomers and those from the village. “I’m in training to be an egg tender.”

“All five of us have similar walks of life, but we all call this place home and after coming of age dedicate ourselves to protecting it.” Ignius looked around. “Now I know you lot likely have some obvious questions…but first, now it’s your turns to introduce yourselves.” Ignius smiled, gesturing to the dragons from Warfang.

Granite cleared his throat, drawing eyes to him.

“I’m Granite, after the call for non-combatants to go into hiding was sent out, dozens of dragons fled to a hidden sanctuary near Warfang. I was little more than a hatchling when I was raised by the elders of the settlement. When I came of age I took command of the settlement’s defenders.” He’d smile. “Seems some of us are in the same vein, protecting the place we call home.”

He'd raise a wing towards Eletara and Storm.

“The goofy looking drake is my best friend and near brother, Storm. We were both raised by the elders in the absence of our parents.” Granite exclaimed with a big smile, turning his gaze to Eletara. “And the lovely dragoness next to him is Eletara, aspiring scholar, bookworm, and Storm’s giiiiiirlfriend. Oh….and she’s the daughter or Tempest, the chief scholar of our people, and Volteer- the electricity guardian.” He bellows out a laugh as Storm fumes out.

“Did you really have to do that again?” Storm grumbled. “But good to meet you all.”

“It’s such a pleasure to meet you all!” Eletara said cheerfully, glancing around at the other dragons from the village.

“You two are so cute together!” Emera said with a wide smile, earning a pair of sheepish looks from the two electricity dragons sitting next to each other.

“And the one who looks like she’s straight out of royalty is Galacion, daughter of Nix, one of the leaders of the sanctuary and Warfang’s current chief diplomat and Cyril, the ice guardian.” Granite raised a paw in Galacion’s direction.

“Charmed to meet each of you…and beyond charmed to see our mission pay off…words can’t express how grand it is to see this many dragons in one place.” Galacion beamed, her icy-blue haze turning to Ignius as he averted his gaze which had been previously on her after Granite’s introduction.

“Galacion…that’s a beautiful name.” Ignius said kindly, avoiding direct eye contact with her, but in doing so he missed the red hue that reached her cheeks, averting her gaze from the fire drake now as she tried her best to hide the blush.

Though she didn’t do well enough, for it wasn’t long before both Eletara and Cynder both took note of the looks Galacion made towards the fire drake on her flank…indeed similar looks that they gave to Spyro and Storm. Cynder’s eyes met Eletara’s and they silently exchanged words…this would be discussed later.

“And those two…well, I think it best the heroes of our age get the chance to introduce themselves, much as I like the sound of my own voice.” Granite chuckled, gesturing to Spyro and Cynder, now under viewership of everyone.

But for once, Spyro didn’t shy away from it…these were good dragons and now it was time for them to show some confidence…and he welcomed this as a distraction from evading telling Ignius of Ignitus’ fate.

“I’m Spyro…purple dragon set to emerge to defeat Malefor, at least that’s what the guardians said the old prophecies said. Raised by dragonflies, trained by the guardians. There’s many stories but the long and short is that I helped free Cynder…we were at the final siege of Warfang, and we faced down Malefor and stopped the world from being destroyed…” He rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.

“Awfully big list as far as implications go, makes me wonder how much of it is true.” Typhoon commented, earning a glare from Ignius…but more worryingly was the death stare Cynder gave the electricity drake.

“It’s true.” Cynder said coldly. “As for me…I’m Cynder…and yes, I’m that Cynder.” She said firmly, glancing around at the reactions she’d get. As she assumed, Typhoon gave her a cold look of distrust. Emera gave her a regretful look, clearly feeling remorse for the dragoness. Flame and Ember didn’t really know how to feel about this information…but this may have stemmed from something else. Ignius, however, gave her a thoughtful look.

“You don’t look like a monster to me.” Ignius said simply, earning a scowl from Typhoon, who he paid no mind. “We were told many stories about the Terror of the Skies, how they felt no emotion as they slew dozens of dragons during the war...but from this day forward, now that the war’s over, maybe we’ll start to hear new and better stories about Cynder, instead of the Terror.”

“Well at least you guys aren’t ragging on her! Felt like my job was at risk with all the looks she was getting earlier.” Sparx commented, earning a curious look from the villager dragons around the fire.

“This is Sparx…my brother.” Spyro said with a roll of his eyes, gesturing to the golden glowing dragonfly, who puffed out his chest proudly. “Despite the lip he gives us, he was by my side from the beginning.”

“His brother?” Flame asked, studying the dragonfly for a long moment. “How the heck does that work?”

“Adoptive brother, I’ll add…and I’m the older of the two of us!” Sparx grinned, pointing at the purple dragon below him smugly.

“Anyway…” Cynder spoke up again. “I was by Spyro’s side from the moment we returned after disappearing for three years…that’s another story entirely. I fought by his side and together we defeated Mal-.” She stopped herself from saying his name. “-the dark master…he saved me in more ways than one…and now here I am, by his side to help make amends to dragons everywhere.” She’d proceed to drape a wing over Spyro’s back, earning a smile from him and an eyeroll from Sparx.

“Well, I have faith in you to see your quest through.” Emera would add, giving Cynder a supportive smile.

“Flame…we should tell them.” Ember said softly, getting Spyro and Cynder’s attention now, Flame nodding in response.

“Tell us what?” Spyro asked now.

“W-well…Ember and I…Magnacia always told us that the next purple dragon and the Terror of the Skies’ eggs would have hatched during the year of the dragon…the same year our eggs hatched.” Flame explained…and it felt as though a weight landed on Spyro and Cynder.

Their eyes expanded greatly, as if in complete disbelief.

“Y-year of the…the dragon?!” Spyro asked aloud. “B-but the temple, the raid…all the eggs were destroyed! All except my own egg and Cynder’s…”

Cynder was wordless…right now she was looking at other dragons who were born in the same year.

“But…how?” Spyro asked, still in complete disbelief.

“Mother told me that when I was a newborn hatchling, she helped tend for the temple near the swamp. Dragons born during the year of the dragon had a stronger likelihood of achieving unique abilities and so her duty was an important one. However, to make a story short, Terrador convinced her take four eggs from the temple and hide them in the Warfang egg hatchery…and when the call for noncombatants to go into hiding came, she took Flame and Ember from the city, and we all fled.” Ignius elaborated with their story…but something nagged at their minds now.

“Well, that explains your seriously unique looks.” Granite would say aloud, gesturing to Flame and Ember. “Gold underbelly and horns? Pink scales? I should have known you two were special.”

Ember just blushed, shyly tilting her gaze to the ground, while Flame just offered a wry smile.

“Wait, you said she took four eggs to Warfang…what happened to the third and fourth eggs and the dragons who came from them?” Cynder would ask now…secretly she was arguing with herself internally regarding something else and was trying to distract herself.

“The third…Magnacia only ever told us that the third dragon born during the year of the dragon vanished from Warfang…they were never found. As for the fourth, she’d never tell us anything in detail…only that they were with the wind dragons, wherever they are.” Emera would add onto Ignius’ story, trying to not flood them with too much information all at once.

“Just…wow…” Spyro sighed. “It’s just…I never thought we’d meet other dragons from the Year of the Dragon like us.”

Cynder still remained silent, Sparx took quick note of how she had gone deathly quiet…normally he’d make a quip to draw her from this trance-like state, but the look she had meant she was deep in thought and the matter was a somber one for her.

Instead, the dragonfly would hover down to Spyro, tapping him on the shoulder to get his attention. Spyro’s amethyst eyes would tilt towards Sparx, expression hardening as if he was bracing for some backhanded comment from the dragonfly. He was surprised, however, when his dragonfly brother pointed out Cynder’s current thousand-mile-stare.

Spyro gave Sparx a thankful look before he leaned over, nudging his muzzle into her own, drawing her emerald gaze to his own.

“Hey…are you alright?” Spyro asked softly as the other dragons around the fire began to break into other conversations…quickly trying to move on from the conversations regarding the Year of the Dragon.

Cynder thought about her answer for what felt like an eternity…fumbling with the words before they even left her mouth.

“I just wonder-.” She’d start to say, but all eyes were drawn to a sudden commotion as from the center of the village, they could see Magnacia taking up a raised position so every dragon in the village could listen in.

“Everyone, listen in please!” Magnacia said aloud. Spyro looked closer and spotted Nix by Magnacia’s side, a content expression on the elder ice dragoness’ face.

“I know today has been exciting…new visitors and word from the outside which we dared not hope for, since hope has been in short supply for so long now.” She said flatly.

“I-I’ll tell you later.” Cynder would say regretfully, cursing herself silently for having taken too long to get the words across…but perhaps this would work in her favor if she could gather her thoughts.

“Now today, our guests have arrived with news from the former capital city of the dragon kingdom, Warfang. Some of you remember the city well as your old home, some of you are too young to ever have seen Warfang…but today I announce that it’s time to make our return to the heart of what was once our central city, for the war is over!” Magnacia shouted, earning an uproar of questions, concerns, skepticism…even some doubt.

When Magnacia and even Nix tried to make them quiet down so they could continue speaking, and it was clear the crowd wouldn’t cease, Ulris stepped forward and let out a BELLOWING roar, one which caught everyone by surprise by the sheer intensity of it. It shook the ground, reverberated in their earholes, and even caused their scales to vibrate some.

Magnacia gave the guard leader a thankful look as his attempt worked in silencing the crowd.

“It’s hard to believe, even for I…but it is true. With the land splitting apart beneath us and then being suddenly repaired, I believe that was a sign that the war had finally come to an end. Lady Nix here has informed me that we have this victory finally thanks to Spyro, the second purple dragon of our time, and Cynder…former Terror of the Skies turned hero in our darkest hour.” She’d clear her throat a little.

“Malefor, the Dark Master, is dead…and with his defeat, our world can breathe a sigh of relief and finally begin to heal. The dragon race can begin to heal…but first before it does, we must return home…to our real home. Our race is on the verge of collapse if we don’t return and continue to remain divided…which is why now I am announcing that tonight we dine and feast…eat well and get rest…for tomorrow, we fly home to Warfang.” She’d stop talking, earning another blank moment of silent wonder and chatter from the crowd watching her.

Ignius, Flame, Ember, Emera, and Typhoon gave each other skeptical looks…this was all so sudden. Flame and Ember seemed excited at the notion of returning to the city they had been born in…Ignius and Emera seemed to have a hesitant and anxious look about them. Typhoon just had an unimpressed blank expression…how Granite looked upon him and wanted to bash him with their tail.

“After dinner tonight, prepare our fighters who are still in recovery for a long flight tomorrow, we’ll be taking a few breaks, but for the most part we’ll be flying straight from here to Warfang. Do not burden yourselves with unnecessary possessions that hold no emotional or significant value. Take only what you absolutely must, lest you be completely exhausted and slow us down more than our recovering fighters will.” Magnacia would explain the plan for the next day, many dragons in the crowd conversing quietly.

Nix would step forward now, clearing her throat as to speak.

“Only a few of you know me, for those who don’t, I am Lady Nix…once chief diplomat of our race before the call to hide was issued. Mate of Cyril, guardian of ice…when we arrive in Warfang, I want to let you all know ahead of time that there will likely be a long wait to get you all into housing. We’ll do everything we can to make it a smooth process but we need your help to do so. When we arrive to the city, a mole will aid any individual or family in finding a suitable home for each of you. Trust in the process and we’ll do our best to ensure the transition into Warfang goes well.” Nix would explain their wishes in a clear tone.

“As I said before, feast and dine tonight.” Magnacia would say, gesturing to several of the tables in the center of the village being lined up and filled with game and other foods they had grown. “For our guests, we’ll find you temporary housing for the night to rest for the flight tomorrow…but for the last time as a community who have hidden here for the darkest point of the old war, let us eat and share this bountiful meal in each other’s company!”

An approving cry from several dragons could be heard, the group of young dragons around the fire would finally get up as well, venturing to go gather their meals…while Sparx flew off into the valley to make his own meal.

The feast had gone on for hours, but as the moon set high in the sky over the great tree which hid the dragon village and the valley, many began to retire to their homes in droves. The sounds of preparation could be heard into the night…many were now trying to get an early night of sleep; others were packing their possessions against Magnacia’s wishes…determined to carry their items away.

Others were merely restless, for differing reasons, and were having trouble sleeping.

Cynder was no exception to this group.

Cynder grumbled as she tilted onto her belly some, emerald eyes opening for what felt like the millionth time…she was still wrestling with the things spiraling around in her mind…and it was taking its toll on her. Currently, she lay beneath the embrace of Spyro’s wing and one of his paws intertwined with one of her own.

Over the course of the past week and since Malefor’s defeat, she had taken great comfort in moments like these, feeling his presence so close…feeling his warmth against her.

Tonight was the only exception so far, slowly she’d slide from under his wing’s embrace, doing her best to not wake him.

Of course, she’d fail in doing so…thankfully, Sparx hadn’t woken up and remained fast asleep. Spyro on the other hand felt his eyes stir back open as he felt the vacancy of her against his side, seeing the flaps of their tent open now. Growing worried, he’d rise to his haunches and would follow her outside of the tent.

He found Cynder sitting on her haunches, glancing up at the moonlight peaking through the tree’s branches and the massive leaves.

“Cynder? Are you okay?” He’d ask, sitting down next to her.

“I…no…I’m not, Spyro.” She said somberly, shoulders slumped, wings flattened down against her back.

“Is this about what you were thinking of before Magnacia’s announcement?” He’d ask, earning a nod from the black dragoness.

“You said you’d tell me later…do you want to tell me now?” Spyro asked, reaching to intertwine a paw with one of hers.

She was quiet for a few long moments but would let out a heavy sigh.

“Ignius said Magnacia took four eggs from the temple before the night of the raid, when Terrador convinced her to do so in case an attack did come.” Cynder brought this back up, Spyro nodding in response.

“He did…” He trailed off, starting to see where this was going.

“I just…” She said before letting out a shudder. “Those four eggs got saved, yours did too…the rest were destroyed…all except mine.” She said sadly.

“We talked about this before Cynder…there was no way they could have known an attack would actually come to the temple.” Spyro would attempt to console her, but that seemed to cause her brows to crease.

“That was before I knew they took other eggs from the temple, Spyro!” She shot back, catching the purple dragon off-guard. “She took other eggs from the temple…they got to escape that demise…but just…why? Why couldn’t my egg have been one of the eggs she saved? Why couldn’t more be saved? Why-.” She croaked, her voice breaking now. Spyro wanted to say something, but he had to give Cynder the chance to vent.

“Why did Gaul have to choose my damn egg?! Why did I have to be subjected to his abuse? Why did I have to be subjected to Malefor’s torture?!” Cynder hissed, flickering strands of fear magic beginning to pool at her paws, dark shadows forming around her wings…like a cloud of despair that began to weigh her down.

Spyro’s amethyst gaze contorted worriedly, reaching up to shake her shoulder.

“Cynder…Cynder!” He said softly, the black dragoness shaking her head as she was brought back to reality.

“I just…Spyro…I love you…and I’m more than ready to see what the future has for us, but why couldn’t I just have some semblance of a normal life? To see myself as a wind dragon, to not have Malefor’s dark gifts forced upon me…to not have my entire childhood ripped away from me.” Cynder muttered sadly, the maroon-ish fear and shadows dissipating from around her.

“I don’t know…” Spyro said sadly, leaning in to hold her closer with his right paw.

“I just…I see what Flame and Ember got. They got to live in a safe place, tucked away from the constant fighting…the war…they got to live normal lives despite being born that same year.” Cynder glanced over at him now, meeting his amethyst eyes with her beautiful emerald ones.

Spyro’s paw would place itself on her left cheek, the black dragoness tilting into his paw for the comforting feel of it against her black scales.

“I wish things were different for the better…if anyone deserved to have some happiness in their life, it’s you. I…the guardians always told me that no matter how hard I tried, the past can’t be undone. I may wish to change things for the better, but for all my abilities as the purple dragon…I can’t change the past. But what I can co is try to give you a better life. I know what we have together is still new for us both…but I swear I’ll do everything I can.” Spyro would speak softly, wiping a stray tear that rolled down her left cheek.

Slowly he’d lean in, muzzle dragging against her own before they both leaned in for a kiss…simply enjoying one another’s warmth and presence for several long moments, before pulling away once more.

No more words were shared, but Cynder was silently thankful and licked his cheek…neither of them could say how long they simply stood underneath the moonlight, enjoying one another’s company, before they’d turn and re-enter their tent...dawn would come bright and early.

Tomorrow was a new day.

Chapter Text

Hunter and the secondary search party were growing more on edge. Hours and hours of avoiding grublin parties was growing more tiresome as the day faded into dusk. The poor moles were having a hard time keeping up with the far more prepared cheetah warriors, the dark not being their usual environment. Their eyesight was poor, their smell and hearing were at least working better. The cheetahs on the other hand could see, hear, and smell in the dark far better, thus the moles began to fall behind some.

Hunter couldn’t blame them; sleep had been scarce with the constant need to have some from their group on watch. No fire meant no warm meals, only lukewarm and flavorless rations filled their bellies…hardly a fitting meal for the journey they had made from the city on foot. Moles valued their daily meals just as much as their work, seeing it as a reward to their labors. The rations they had been provided with were anything but rewarding.

“Keep moving, I’m smelling more of them!” Hunter spoke in a hushed shout, the moles moving faster to keep up with the group of cheetahs. They crept along the dirty ground, their fur on their paws started to show the hours of crawling and creeping they had done for the entire day since reaching the grove.

They had crossed paths with some of the wildlife, wild creatures of various twisted shapes nearly alien to the cheetahs and moles, being from Avalar and Warfang where everything was so recognizable to their eyes…this place was something else.

A mole felt his right paw accidentally slip on a rather prickly bush, recoiling in pain and nearly crying out in pain, but a cheetah clamped their own over his mouth and muffled the pained sound from the mole!

“Quiet!” Hunter hissed, nearly drawing his blade as he waited to see if they had been discovered…when several long moments passed and it hadn’t seemed they’d been discovered, he’d remove his hand from the hilt. The mole who had been muffled was finally allowed to breathe once again, shaking his hand in agitation.

“Curse this place, such a place shouldn’t exist!” The mole whined, picking up his crossbow which he had dropped by accident after grasping the bush.

“No…it shouldn’t.” Hunter would comment, turning to face the mole who had spoken. “It is said this place was the site where something awful happened…something the Dark Master did leading to the war to wipe out dragon-kind. What he did, I couldn’t say…but whatever it was, it created this grove from the corrupted magic he wielded so long ago.” Hunter would say all this as he pushed through the brush, his nose and ears guiding him currently. “Keep moving.” He’d let out, gesturing for the group to follow after.

For some time, the group would silently trek and duck between roaming groups of grublins…Hunter felt that now was the time where they should have turned back…the awful feeling that they were walking into a trap.

If only he had listened to his instincts when he first felt it.

It began when they first began to hear the low beating of drums, vibrating the ground beneath their group as they continued to travel through the ancient grove. The closer they got to the source of the pounding drums, the more the very land around them seemed to reverberate with the sound.

Hunter had heard such drums before, war drums of the grublins, employed in their hidden layers underground…or during the siege of Warfang, they were used to inspire fear in the hearts of moles, the closer they got tended to mean that the grublins themselves were getting closer to their defenses.

But here, in the grove, it meant that their party was growing closer to the grublins instead…this didn’t comfort the three moles in their search party of cheetahs. Hunter’s fellow cheetahs began to grow unnerved by the grove…so much wildlife and so many grublins they had to avoid for an entire day now.

What Hunter and the search party found once they nearly cleared the brush was anything but what they expected.

They eventually found a clearing in the grove, finding a circling of elevated ledges overlooking a central area, each of these overlooks lined with grublins beating on drums, ranging from the smaller foot soldiers to the larger orcs, even some of their champions and ogres gathered in the masses. Hunter could only marvel at the sheer scale of the grublins amassed in the grove…with a question sinking into his gut.

“How could they still field so many? How were they not broken following the demise of their master?” Hunter asked quietly, his eyes drifting lower to the central spot where he spotted something else which made his fur stand up on end.

A dark and shrouded dragon, inky-black scales and blue tattoos lining his body, easily as large as the guardian dragons…a little larger in fact. He had never seen a dragon such as this before, the only one which came to mind was Cynder…but this dragon was in fact not her.

He was surrounded by grublin leaders, all chanting in their strange language that none of the cheetahs or moles could make any sense of…almost ritualistic in nature as they continued to perform around the dragon at the center of their formation.

“Hunter, who is that?” A cheetah would whisper, getting a lost look from their leader.

“I…I don’t know.” Hunter held his bow close now as he drew it, already pulling an arrow from his quiver to keep at the ready should such a thing be necessary.

The mysterious dragon seemed to channel a foggy haze of shadows before raising his wings high, as if demanding the attention of all who bore witness to him…and just like that, the entire army of grublins fell silent. Every drum was no longer being hammered, the chanting ended…all that could be heard in the grove now was the rustling of trees and bushes as wind blew. It almost scared Hunter how quickly this dragon could silence a crowd of usually savage grublins, so eager to cry out and chant in their alien tongue.

And then he spoke.

“Grublins!” He announced, his voice deep and filled with unbridled hatred and cruelty. “In the wake of Malefor’s tragic defeat, we find ourselves in a rather precarious position! The grand design of his plans has failed, and it falls to us to pick up the pieces and forge a new way forward. The dragons, mighty as they may be, are lacking in numbers…weak! I, Adimere, can never replace Malefor…but I assure you we shall NOT fail where he did…but we’ve a long road ahead of us. The plan has already changed, for this world must not be destroyed as Malefor sought to do…it must be subjugated! Which starts with the wind dragons!” The dragon, Adimere as the group had heard him announce, would shout aloud so all could hear.

“In this grove…hidden like frightened rabbits are the wind dragons. Day and night, I want constant search parties scouring every inch of this grove until we root the cowards out! You will not stop until they are found and buried! And once we’re finished with the wind dragons, we’ll spread throughout the old dragon kingdom to keep rooting out more of their hiding places…until finally we turn our attention back to Warfang. When our plans are complete, not even the great dragon city will be able to withstand our might!” Adimere continued now glancing around with his piercing blue gaze…until he did something which made Hunter’s blood run cold.

His eyes met directly with Hunter’s!

“We have uninvited guests…BRING THEM TO ME!” Adimere roared, and with an uproar of noise and torches, the grublins immediately began moving…and it was clear the search party had been found.

“Everyone, FALL BACK!” Hunter called out. “Draw bows!” He ordered, raising his own bow as he made hand signals for the cheetahs and moles to follow-suit. Like an earthquake, the grublins began converging on their small band, already on the verge of being surrounded by the hideous creatures from all sides.

Hunter knew they couldn’t truly escape in time, there was no way they’d be able to outrun the wyverns once they were sicked upon them…they only had one chance to come out of this alive now…at least he hoped.

Hunter would whistle out as they ran, calling to Ana and praying she’d arrive soon. For now, they had to make a stand…this was what Hunter was banking on once they found a clearing in the grove.

“Form a firing line, nock arrows!” Hunter called, drawing his bowstring back with a sharpened arrow prepared…he knew their ammo wouldn’t last. They each only had around twenty arrows with no way of replenishing their ammo stores.

“Draw!” Hunter would call out once more, each cheetah in the party drawing back their bowstrings and ready to let loose their volley…but the order didn’t come just yet. Hunter kept his skilled eyes trained on the grove ahead, no longer able to rely on hearing alone as the sounds of drums and screeching ringing against their eardrums now…but he could feel the vibrations of their movements as they grew ever closer, and smell as they approached.

When the first sickly shade of green crossed through the brush, his eyes narrowed.

“LOOSE!” Hunter ordered, every cheetah letting loose a volley of arrows that crashed into a party of grublins almost as soon as they fully emerged from the trees around them. Their arrows had little issue piercing the grublins’ hides, dropping each one almost instantly. But these were mere cannon-fodder grublins, bred for one purpose: to die in droves to wear down defenses.

By the time the longbow volley was done, several grublins looked like pincushions. Any stragglers were picked off by the moles with their impressive crossbows, the bolts sinking into their artificial skin with ease. Hunter didn’t like crossbows, seeing them as clunky and lacking in elegance, but he couldn’t deny the results of their capabilities, and the moles seemed to manage them better than traditional bows.

Even as the group finished off the first group of grublins, it was mere seconds before the next was descending upon their party! With another command, the arrows were loose once more as the cheetahs drew back their longbow strings back. This time the group was larger, forcing the cheetahs to nock even more arrows from their quivers in order to dispatch the party of grublins before they could close the gap with Hunter’s group.

They could see in the trees all around the light of more torches quickly moving to encircle the search party, and it wasn’t hard to tell that they were being surrounded.

“Hunter, what do we do?!” One of the cheetahs asked aloud, drawing his bow back to snipe out an orc which had the misfortune to poke their head from the trees. Soon enough more grublins, some of the flies joining the fray now, would emerge from the woods, a volley of arrows finding their malformed flesh as the cheetahs and moles did their best to keep their foes at bay!

“We hold out as long as we can, I need Ana here to send word to Warfang! Hold them off until she gets here!” Hunter would call out, pulling his bowstring back to sink another arrow into the skull of an armored orc, finding a gap in the armor as the creature fell over with a thud. They made sure to give the moles space in their formation to keep them safe. The cheetahs were forced to form a circle around the moles, the grublins coming from every direction!

“You heard Hunter, hold the line!” Another cheetah called out, the sound of bowstrings snapping back and forth sounding off over and over, arrows crashing into grublins and their armor for those with any on. But soon, some cheetahs began to run out of arrows, forced to stow their bows away in favor of their spears, forming a makeshift schiltron against the overwhelming grublins.

Hunter began to grow worried about Ana, the falcon was usually on his shoulder within mere moments upon calling her, afraid she was being actively tailed by wyverns…thankfully the cheetah’s silent prayers were answered as Ana flew through the brush, flapping her wings as she flew near the leading cheetah. He could see the distress clearly in her eyes. He’d reach down into one of his pouches, retrieving a tiny scroll of paper, the very same one he’d written a message on in the grassland outside of Warfang. He’d offer the paper to her, the intelligent bird knowing to take it into one of her talons.

“Go Ana, fly to Warfang and send word to the guardians! Go!” Hunter ordered, whistling once more as the falcon would dart off past the trees. He could only hope she made it to the city.

‘No, she’ll make it. She always does.’ Hunter thought to himself, drawing his bow to fire off one last arrow to drop an orc…now out of ammo, he’d draw his shortsword followed with a brandish of the blade.

Hunter would join the fray, slicing and stabbing at orcs as they pressed in on the cheetah line! By now, the moles had run out of ammo too, drawing their simple blades as they did their best to aid their cheetah companions. Their spears proved efficient in keeping the inferiorly trained grublins back from breaking their line. Every grublin that closed the distance finding a blade sinking into their flesh and dropping them dead on the spot, twisting his sword around to slice at another grublin that thought it could get the drop on the experienced warrior.

For what felt like ages, the cheetahs fought off the grublins and their orc superiors, but Hunter knew that when the fighting fell to a deafening silence…when their encircled formation was only surrounded by corpses, that they had already lost the fight.

His dread was confirmed when an entire horde of grublins emerged from the woods, accompanied by well over a dozen wyverns circling overhead above the desperate search party.

Hunter let out a heavy sigh, sheathing his sword in that moment.

“Stand down…we’d be dead by now if they wanted us dead.” Hunter gestured for the cheetahs to stow their spears in that moment. His cheetahs hesitated, afraid of what would occur should they follow Hunter’s command…but just like he followed Prowlus’ orders (usually), they followed his. The moles, seeing their cheetah allies stow their weapons, would do so as well.

“Wise.” A dark voice alerted their group, drawing their attention to that dark dragon landing before Hunter, the grublins moving aside for him to step forward. “You’ll prove useful to my plans.” He smiled cruelly, causing a feeling of rebellion to rise in Hunter.

“The guardians will know that you’re here, whoever you are, they and the purple dragon will stop you.” Hunter said defiantly, but soon his blood ran cold once again as Adimere let out a resonating laugh.

“We shall see.”

The dawn came early for the hidden dragon village past the swamp, sunlight beginning to creep and peak through the canopy of the elder tree which shielded the place. Nestled comfortably were the dozens upon dozens of tenements which the occupants had used as their makeshift homes for over a decade now…but today that would all change for them.

Laying side by side in their tent together, Spyro and Cynder stirred awake as light crept into their temporary home from the prior night…Cynder was still groggy from the night following the news they’d received from Flame and Ember, discovering their eggs hadn’t been the only ones to survive the Year of the Dragon temple raid…but as ever, she was comforted by Spyro.

Despite the despair she felt at times, he had a way of warming her very being with words alone.

Spyro was secretly wrestling with his own feelings on the information which had been brought to light the previous evening…so much information to process in a single day. Finding around a hundred dragons in hiding, meeting the wife and son of Ignitus, and discovering that others had survived the brutality of the apes that terrible night nineteen years ago.

His thoughts drifted to Ignitus as he quietly began waking up and stirring back to reality, his paw intertwined with Cynder’s own as they lay side by side on the makeshift leaf mat which was weaved together. He could only hope that Ignitus was watching over them even now…Spyro also wished to get to know Magnacia and Ignius, to meet and learn more about his mentor’s family.

If only he knew the extent of reality regarding Ignitus’ fate.

Spyro would turn his purple eyes onto Cynder now, offering her a weak smile.

“Morning.” He said softly, earning a returned gaze from Cynder. “Did you get any sleep?”

She’d let out a yawn, taking a long stretch as she leaned her head against their intertwined paws, to which he’d do the same.

“A little…not as much as I’d like but I’ll be okay for the flight.” She says quietly, muzzle brushing against Spyro’s own as his wing draped over her back like a blanket. Her scales seemed to warm approvingly at the contact, but she’d let out a soft sigh of disappointment as she rose to her haunches, letting out a yawn.

“We should get up though…it won’t be long before-.” As Cynder began speaking, a golden glow burst into the tent.

“Morning lovebirds! Get up get up get up get up! Pretty red dragon lady’s sent out the call, we’re leaving soon.” Sparx said aloud, earning a groan from the pair of dragons as they woke up some more.

“Where have you been, Sparx? I thought you were still sleeping.” Spyro grumbled, reaching up to wipe his eyes some.

“I got an early start, got some grub before the flight…speaking of which, you’ve only got a little while to get some food in you for the flight home! …not that you need more on you, porky.” Sparx jabbed at the purple dragon, who just gave him an evil glare.

“Is everyone else awake?” Spyro would ask while Cynder went over to a small bowl of water which had been left behind in the tent the previous night, wetting her face some to clean up a little.

“Granite and the others are up; I think it’s just some of the older lizards holding things up. They’ve gotten most of their wounded either ready to move or have groups of dragons ready to carry them to the city. Big Red’s kid asked me to come and make sure you two had time to come get a bite to eat.” Sparx would hover near Spyro and give him a shrug.

“We’d better get ready then…don’t want to keep them waiting.” Spyro would say softly, walking next to Cynder as she washed her face off some. “Ready?” He asked, earning a nod from the black dragoness as she finished up, turning to follow Spyro and Sparx out of the tent to find the new commotion.

A bustle of dragons rushed through the village, leaving their tenements behind as they began to gather in the center of the place they had called home for around a decade...they could tell anxieties were high. So many were nervous about leaving, not truly able to believe that the war was over just yet…others were overly excited to finally leave for the first time in so many years. Spyro, Sparx, and Cynder would soon notice their party and some of the other dragons they’d met the previous night gathered in the center excluding Magnacia and Ignius who were nowhere to be seen yet.

Granite was actively biting down on some fish which was leftover from the feast last night, the others doing the same as they prepared for the flight home to Warfang.

Granite offered the trio a wave with his wing, drawing some attention their way from the others. Storm and Eletara both silently ate their own fish, it appeared she was helping prepare the electricity drake for the flight ahead. Nix and Galacion were conversing with Emera…who knew what they were discussing. Ulris and his fellow Warfang Guard dragons were helping prepare some of the supplies for the trip back to the city, it seemed the guards weren’t fond of sitting idly by when there was work to be done still.

Typhoon sat alone, surrounded by a few younger drakes they hadn’t met…Spyro and Cynder just assumed they were the drake’s groupies of sorts, as it was clear he didn’t fully get along with Ignius and the others in their group. Flame and Ember were sitting to the side enjoying their breakfast, Spyro and Cynder sharing a glance- not noting Sparx’s confused look before the two made their way over to the two fire dragons.

Ember was the first to notice their approach, growing a bit nervous in the eyes, Flame snapping back to reality as he also noticed them sit down near their spot. Spyro, Cynder, and Sparx could have all three sworn that a more calm feeling rushed over them…they couldn’t really explain why, but a sense of warm compassion seemed to wash over the trio as they settled down near Flame and Ember.

“O-oh, hi again…I hope you both slept well.” Ember said nervously. Cynder couldn’t help but smile at the pink dragoness’ nervousness, reminding Cynder of herself a little from when she had first gone to the temple after Spyro saved her.

“Well enough.” Cynder would say simply as she sat down near the two on her haunches. Flame would smile and would pass them a simple wooden tray with more fish on it, earning an appreciative nod from the two as they settled in.

“Are you both ready to finally see Warfang again?” Spyro would ask while Cynder leaned down to take a bite of fried fish. It wasn’t as good as it had been the previous night, no longer freshly cooked and now simply re-heated over an open fire…but that in contrast to the dried rations they’d packed for an extended trip was far more welcome.

Flame would finish his bite first, taking a breath before he spoke.

“Ever since we were little more than hatchlings, I figured this day would come…where we finally return home. I just…” He trailed off.

“Something wrong?” Spyro asked, earning a sigh and shake of Flame’s head, sunlight starting to bounce off his horns in a similar fashion to Spyro’s own.

“No…it’s just been a long time; I don’t imagine it’ll be very familiar to us.” Flame admitted, earning a nod from Ember.

“Yeah…” She rubbed one of her shoulders with the opposing paw. “So much time has passed…I barely remember the city as is, but to see it over a decade later…I’m just hoping we only feel lost and don’t resent it.”

“Sheesh, and I thought Cynder was a nervous wreck three years ago.” Sparx whispered to them both, earning a hard swat from Cynder’s tail which sent the dragonfly tumbling to the ground.

“Hey!” He whined, rolling his eyes before going back to continue flying near Spyro and going opposite to Cynder now. Spyro just huffed and paid his surrogate brother no mind. Flame and Ember gave the dragonfly a curious look as they could see him whispering to the two dragons before being promptly smacked.

“Well…we’re still learning about the city. We still haven’t gotten to spend much time there…maybe we can traverse it together? You two can relearn the city and we can see more of it for the first time.” Cynder offered, earning a broad smile from Flame and a nervous smile from Ember.

“W-well we don’t want to inconvenience you two-.” Ember started to say, but Flame was quick to place a wing over her back to comfort her.

“Give us some time once we get to the city…but we’ll come find you two when we’re ready to take up your offer.” Flame offered an appreciative bow of his head; Ember would simply nod in agreement. The poor pink dragoness seemed to be afraid of her own shadow it seemed. Spyro was still wrapping his head around her appearance. The pink scales were one thing…but her horns were so elegant looking, on par with Galacion and Nix’s own…the heart shaped tail end of her tail. It almost seemed artistically designed in a way which Spyro couldn’t truly grasp.

Then again, he was a purple dragon who could wield all elements and various powers available to dragons…so he couldn’t really judge. But it did fascinate him all the same.

“Spyro, Cynder…a word.” A feminine voice alerted the two, drawing their gazes to Magnacia, Ignius at her side.

“You two go on, we’ll be here getting ready. I’m sure we’ll have plenty more time to talk once we reach the city.” Ember said softly, now not sounding so nervous as she had before. Spyro and Cynder both gave the other two dragons a nod before turning to approach the elder fire dragoness, Sparx in tow.

“So, what do you make of them Ember?” Flame smiled, his eyes darting to meet Ember’s pearly-blue ones. “Kinda funny how the saviors of the world are…well, kids like us.” Flame said quietly, just to avoid Spyro and Cynder overhearing them as they had other things to worry about.

“It is…it makes me wonder what we could ever hope to achieve in comparison. I’m…not sure what good I’ll be in the city.” Ember muttered, Flame just shrugging his broad shoulders.

“You’re great with the dragonlings Ember, I’m sure that’ll come in useful, trust me.” He gives her a broad smile to add onto his kind words.

“I think you’d make a good Fire Guardian apprentice.” Ember responded sweetly to Flame, earning a chuckle from the drake.

“Fat chance, Magnacia has been grooming Ignius for the job since he could fly…but there’s always a chance.” Flame rubbed a paw over the mohawk-like fins going down his neck past his horns.

Spyro, Cynder, and Sparx stepped before the regal fire dragoness, Ignius by her side. Magnacia looked a little regretful, almost as if something was weighing down on her.

“Is everything alright, lady Magnacia?” Spyro asked, earning a soft chuckle from her.

“Please, just Magnacia…no need for formalities with me young dragon. Ignius dear, go help your friends get ready for the flight.” She patted him on the back with a large paw, the young fire drake offering a simple nod.

“Good morning to you both.” Ignius said with a wry smile, marching off to see to his duties before the colony evacuated to Warfang. Cynder tracked his movements, spotting the fire drake approaching Granite, who knew what they’d talk about.

Their attention turned back to Magnacia, who seemed to shrug something off.

“I apologize for my demeanor yesterday evening…my attitude towards you both was unworthy of me and you two didn’t deserve that, especially you Cynder…you are not the monster I remember fearing and I very nearly took out years of aggression towards said monster on you. When I immediately saw you I only saw potential victors demanding respect after your besting of Malefor...Nix told me much and I could never guess how much this war has affected you both as well.” Magnacia spoke in a low, sincere tone, catching the two by surprise.

“I can’t exactly blame you…just three and a half years ago I was threatening all dragons, against my will or not.” Cynder frowned to herself, not wishing to drag others down.

“You and your people have been through a lot; I can understand being indifferent towards us. We were two unknowns walking into your hiding place promising protection in Warfang.” Spyro offered a reassuring smile in return to the fire dragoness, who shook her head quickly after.

“You’re too kind…but I was insensitive despite knowing well the sheer scale of challenges thrown at you both throughout your time in the conflict. The worst part of the old war was seeing how it affected the hatchlings, unable to do anything about it. The guardians and fighters did all they could to prevent the war from reaching our borders…and still overtime I saw our once grand kingdom crumble all around us…and was forced to see it hurt the children. Despite this, I was ready to lay all the blame on you both last night…and for that, I am sorry.” Magnacia said regretfully. “When we reach the city, Nix has told me of something which will lead to much change, but it can wait to be said after our return. But for now, I can say this…I still wish to hear the full extent of what happened to my husband but…know that you’ve my support in the future.”

“Well, I appreciate it and we look forward to hearing this news…are your people ready for the flight to Warfang?” Spyro asked, glancing back towards the preparing colony of dragons in a bustle to prepare for the journey.

Magnacia’s somber toned seemed to shift some, her eyes lighting up with some a more cheerful note to speak on.

“Yeah, are the wings all stretched? Gotta think they’ve probably gotten a little stiff after so long.” Sparx spoke up, earning an eyeroll from Cynder.

“Fret not, purple dragon, they’ve been hidden away from the world for years, but these dragons are ready to leave this place…many haven’t forgotten their true home and yearn to return. The younger dragons never knew it…and the eggs need a safe place to be born. This place is becoming less and less safe with the arrival of the grublins…it won’t be long before they truly attack, and we don’t have enough combatants to hold them back forever, it’s time to go home once and for all.” Magnacia would bow her head ever close to the two.

“Well, that’s good, the city is…a little sad without more dragons present.” Cynder smiled at the fire dragoness.

“Yes…what has become of Warfang since the call to go into hiding was sent out by the guardians? It’s a wonder the city still stands.” Magnacia inquired, her frills flexing some.

“The city has…seen better days.” Cynder smiled sheepishly.

“That’s putting it mildly.” Sparx jabbed.

“The city stands but is in great disrepair. An entire section of the northern wall is destroyed, the academy and military districts have suffered great damage and, frankly, we’re lucky they still stand. The market and residential districts are still intact but could use work as well…all in all, it needs repairs.” Spyro described it all in detail, earning a firm nod from Magnacia.

“And I’m sure they could use more dragons aiding in the repairs.” Magnacia said firmly. “If the city is in need of repairs, we’ll lend our aid to the effort.”

“Good, the moles will need all the help they can get.” Spyro added, earning an appraising nod from Magnacia in turn.

“Now then, I’ve some matters to discuss with our carvers before we take off, you three be off and get ready for the journey.” Magnacia would extend her wings to usher them away. The trio would do as requested, Spyro and Cynder with Sparx following behind going towards Nix and the entourage around her.

The older ice dragoness noted their arrival, offering the pair of them a slight smile.

“Spyro, Cynder…good morning.” She said softly, earning a frown from Sparx.

“I’m fine too…” He muttered, which Nix didn’t really take note of.

“I hope you both slept well, the tenements weren’t really designed for comfort.” Emera smiled, earning nods from both Spyro and Cynder.

“We slept well enough as can be expected, we’re both just anxious for the flight.” Cynder would answer the earth dragoness’ inquiry.

“Well, that’s good to hear. I look forward to sleeping with proper rooves over our heads once we reach the city…I never saw the great dragon city but have always wanted to.” Emera glanced to the sky, as if expectantly for the journey ahead.

Heavy footsteps alerted the group, drawing their gazes to Granite as he approached.

“Morning everyone, Emera, Ignius told me you needed my help with something?” He asked quickly, Emera nodded in response.

“Yes! Some of the earth dragons stone carvers and I could use some help opening the exit tunnel up more widely, if you think you can handle it?” She asked, earning a cheeky grin from the lumbering drake.

“Can I?” He laughed some more, before settling down. “…we’ll find out.” He gave off a broad smile, stepping aside to allow Emera to pass and lead him on, his eyes tracking her the whole way before following her.

Galacion couldn’t help but glance at Cynder, a cheeky grin crossing her expression.

“I think there’s already something blossoming between those two.” Galacion grinned, to which Cynder could only giggle a little in return, quickly stifling herself and feeling a blush cross her cheeks.

“Did you just giggle?” Spyro asked with a toothy grin.

“I-no! No I did not…” Cynder deflected the question.

“No you definitely did, the mighty Cynder can giggle like a little girl when she wants to.” Sparx laughed.

“I’ll flatten you.” She threatened, earning another laugh from the others gathered around them.

“As for those two, maybe! Give it time, Granite values strength in character and physique from what I’ve gathered, maybe she’ll impress him and vice versa.” Spyro would add onto the conversation.

“We’ll see once we reach the city, Warfang has a history of bringing dragons together…plus Eletara and I are already talking about doing things to get them together.” Galacion snickered deviously.

“You’re secretly villain material.” Sparx crossed his arms as he floated nearby. “Also don’t think we didn’t see you eying up Big Red’s kid.”

Galacion’s cheeks blushed, far more visible than Cynder’s whenever they became flushed.

“I did no such thing!” Galacion defended herself, earning a shy smile from both Cynder and Spyro, Sparx giving her an incredulous look.

“Uh huh…suuuuuure.” Sparx smiled. “And the googly eyes you were giving him were just a coincidence…of course after he offered to let you sit next to him.”

“You did give him a certain look last night, Galacion…I’ve given Spyro the same look before.” Cynder smiled, earning a scoff from Galacion.

“I did not!” Galacion countered. “I was just…appreciative of him for offering the seat next to him as it was getting crowded.”

“You absolutely did!” Spyro laughed, earning another blush from Galacion, the ice dragoness averting her gaze as to avoid it being so obvious.

A horn would ring out, drawing all eyes to the center of the colony and to Magnacia as she took her place on the standing podium so all could listen to her.

“Enough you lot, settle down and listen.” Nix would speak up, leading the group to avert their gazes to the older fire dragoness as she began to speak. From below the podium Ulris and his Warfang Guards and two other dragons, a rather large fire drake and almost frail looking ice earth dragoness, took position around the podium

“Dragons of our sanctuary, hear me! The stone carvers have just left to work on the passage, once they are done, we leave this place once and for all! All healers, please tend to your charges and ensure they’re comfortable leaving the cavern and are comfortable for the flight! To all parents and caretakers, ensure your charges are kept close! All fighters will make a perimeter around our formation! This is the last call, gather everything essential to the journey and gather at the entrance of the cavern!” Magnacia shouted so all could hear, and in a bustle of noise and commotion, all dragons in the colony went about their final preparations.

Several healers began seeing the wounded to the cavern entrance ahead of the crowd, soon followed by some of the elders and children with their families. Dragons of various ages and colors flocked to the mouth of the cavern, the sounds of effort coming from it as the stone carvers got to work on widening the old passageway from the inside.

Flame and Ember watched hesitantly, the pink dragoness almost scared to start walking to the passage. Flame glanced down at her, his gaze turning somber. Flame was less so scared to return, more worries for the dragoness he considered his best friend and how this weighed on her mind.

“Are you ready to go home?” He asked gently, a wing brushing her back.

“No…” She inhales sharply, shuddering as she breathed back out. “Let’s do it.” She reopened her bright blue eyes. Fear in the pink dragoness was traded out for courage. With that, the two would approach the moving crowd exiting toward the cavern, ready to take the first steps back to their old home which they were born in.

Chapter Text

 “We need a breather!” An elder dragon called ahead to the leaders of the massed formation of dragons high in the sky. Magnacia could only silently let out a sigh, she was eager for this flight to be over…but at this rate it would take ten years to reach Warfang. With the wounded, it was understandable…with some of the older dragons who simply liked to whine about a little ache in their wings, it was a fight against her own sanity. For their sake, she’d turn to Nix who had been flying alongside her, extending their wing some.

“Some of my people need a final breather before we reach the city!” Magnacia called over to Nix, who merely let out a frustrated grunt. She couldn’t blame the older ice dragoness; she was eager to return to the safe walls of Warfang and out of the elements. More importantly, she was eager to return and hear the guardians’ stance on her taking over as regent of the city, having discussed the matter the previous night before the flight began…deep down she questioned Nix’s motives for wanting the position, but she’d never question her methods. She was a capable politician and diplomat…and knew how to micro-manage every aspect of a community down to the most minute chore.

Much weighed on her mind…but she couldn’t let that show for now. She had to ensure her people made it to the city safely…and that meant not making a fuss when one from her community did so.

“Very well.” Nix said, glancing to the ground far below, noting that they were nearing the grassy flatlands which surrounded Warfang, she knew there’d be enough room for Magnacia’s dragons to land safely below them and to comfortably take back off.

“Cynder dear!” Nix called back, the black dragoness not far behind with Spyro at her side. Sparx at this point was comfortably tucked away in Spyro’s travel pack for his own safety. Granite, Galacion, Storm, and Eletara were nearby as well in the formation. He said nothing, but Eletara could tell Storm was in need of a breather as well, his wings becoming more and more staggered in their flight pattern ever since they had left the settlement. “Would you care to use your wind powers to clear our vision? We need to land!”

“I-I’ll try!” Cyncer called back, using her wind power to fly to the head of the group, Spyro giving her a reassuring grin mid-flight as she was given a chance to show her usefulness. Cynder, with a moment of silent contemplation and mustering of power, would begin to let out a slow cone of wind which began to carve a path directly through the clouds in front of them, the ground already starting to become more visible to the group of dragons.

“Very good, keep at it dear, lead us down and the rest of the formation will follow!” Nix called ahead to the black dragoness, who focused her wind breath a bit more precisely as she tilted downward into a steady glide. Nix, Magnacia, Spyro, and the rest of the formation steadily began to follow behind Cynder as she led the way to the earth beneath them. Enmasse, the group of just over a hundred dragons slowly lowered closer and closer to the bright green grass beneath them.

Cynder was the first to land after several long moments of descension, Spyro and the others soon following suit, touching down in the thick grassy woodland, able to spot the long stretch of flatlands which surrounded the dragon city, none could see it yet…but just off the horizon awaited their destination.

Spyro stepped up next to Cynder, offering that same warm smile to her.

“Good job…almost home.” Spyro said softly, earning a laugh from Cynder, which had him raising a brow in question, which she took note of.

“Sorry…it’s just…nice, you know? Home…to say I finally have somewhere which I can just call home. Friends to return to…a roof over our heads.” Cynder smiled, glancing over the flatland, emerald eyes taking in the view as if she was staring over the wall of Warfang itself. “…someone special to wake up next to.” Cynder said with a flash of those beautiful eyes to the purple dragon, who couldn’t help but smile and lean over to rub his snout against her own, the dragoness closing her eyes and purring a little into the embrace.

Of course, the peace was broken when Sparx barged his way out of Spyro’s travel bag.

“Jeez some people can hear you, ya’ know?!” The dragonfly groaned, darting away to let the two continue what he only saw as nauseating mushy interaction. Galacion, Granite, and Eletara couldn’t help but give an exaggerated ‘awwww’ all together as they witnessed the black and purple dragons embrace one another. The two quickly pulled away, a blush creeping up both of their cheeks, barely showing through their scales.

“Just when it was getting good.” Granite chuckled, turning to approach Emera and some of the other dragons from the new settlement, Galacion tracking the earth dragon’s movements carefully before approaching Spyro and Cynder. Storm likely would have joined in on the group fun of poking at Spyro and Cynder, but he was too busy regaining his breath…to which Eletara would see to once again now that they had a moment to recuperate.

“Doing alright sweety?” Eletara asked kindly of Storm, who just huffed in response. The electricity dragon didn’t like to admit he needed help, but in times like these…he was ever thankful for Eletara by his side.

“I’ll be fine…” He said curtly. “But…thanks for keeping to my pace…I hate slowing you down.” Storm grumbled, to which she’d lean down and kiss him on the cheek as reassurance.

“Lucky for both of us, you’re worth it.” Eletara grinned toothily at him, to which Storm just chuckled in return, earning a laugh from Eletara as well.

Galacion would sit down on her haunches, turning to Spyro and Cynder once she was sure Granite was out of listening range so they could have a moment of private conversation.

“Is it just me or does Granite have a big pair of eyes for Emera?” Galacion asked the two, who couldn’t help but nod in agreement.

“I mean it makes sense; we saw the way she fights- very much like him. Terrador always said earth dragons respect mutual strength and stalwartness…seems natural he’d feel some sort of draw.” Spyro would pull out a dried cut of meat from his travel-bag rations, handing half of it to Cynder, who smiled as thanks before taking it.

“He’s not the only one with eyes for someone.” Cynder poked at the ice dragoness, biting down on the dried pork. It was only a little salted and was for the most part bland, but it was among the more appetizing rations they’d been supplied with compared to some other ration items.

“What do you mean?” Galacion asked, acting unaware of the observation Cynder and Eletara had made the previous night prior to the feast.

“Am I missing something?” Spyro asked, giving Cynder a curious glance. He hadn’t been watching Galacion like the other two dragoness’ in their circle during the previous evening around the bonfire.

“Oh nothing…just that Galacion was making cute eyes at Ignius when he offered her the spot next to him.” Cynder smirked, earning a flustered look from Galacion, pursing her lips.

“Bu- I- er- No! No…he was just being a gentleman, he offered me a seat…nothing more!” Galacion frowned, rubbing a paw over her closest shoulder.

“Mmhm…as you say.” Cynder smiled before having another bite. While Spyro wasn’t really in on the gossip talk, it made him happy to see Cynder getting along…and opening up more. Three years ago, such an interaction with her was next to impossible. The progress she’d made in such a short time was spectacular.

“It’s true! Leave it be, Cynder.” Galacion huffed, earning a surrendering wave of Cynder’s paws, to which the ice dragoness would ease up a little. Spyro hadn’t considered Galacion having eyes for Ignius…granted, this wasn’t really falling within his focus. He didn’t fully understand the desire to gossip and poke fun regarding romantic interests…but if it interested Cynder, he was glad to listen.

“Well…what about Flame and Ember? Think they’re together?” Spyro asked, earning a smile from the two dragonesses, Cynder being happy to continue speaking on a similar manner…while Galacion was simply glad to move on from the matter regarding Ignius.

Spyro could only be thankful Cynder was in better spirits, she had been rather glum the prior night after learning about the four eggs which had been saved from the temple. He knew Cynder didn’t hold it against Ember or Flame…nor the other two dragons who had their eggs taken to Warfang before the temple raid led by Gaul. He felt the nagging feeling of survivor’s guilt hitting him…while Cynder had many doubts swirling around in her head.

Perhaps she was merely putting on a mask? He couldn’t tell…but he’d also wait until she was ready to discuss it further.

Ignius glanced over at the group of dragons from Warfang, taking several mental notes…he wondered what they were talking about, but they were out of listening range. Standing near his own circle, he’d glance back to his friends who had gathered up around him. Flame and Ember sat together, the drake taking several heavy gulps of water from his makeshift waterskin while the pink dragoness simply bopped her head side to side. Typhoon and his troupe were nearby…to which Ignius was not worried about. After his behavior the prior night, Ignius was giving him a wide berth. Emera was conversing with Granite nor far away with Ulris and the rest of the dragons in the Warfang Guard present.

Ember took note of his concentrated look, a soft smile touching her lips as she approached Ignius.

“Something the matter Ignius?” She asked, that comforting presence washing over the fire drake now, who just gave her a shrug.

“It’s just…I haven’t seen that city in over ten years. And the last time I was there, dad was with me. Ember I just…” Ignius glanced down, hesitating to say anything more.

“What is it Ignius? You can tell me.” Ember said softly. Despite how nervous she often was, the pink dragoness was more than prepared to speak with others about their own baggage.

“…I’m afraid, Ember. I’m afraid to be back in Warfang without him. I’m afraid that every step I take in the city will just be a constant reminder that he isn’t by my side any longer. Mother…she hasn’t told me anything about her talk with Spyro and Cynder besides that he’s gone.” Ignius muttered slowly, failing to notice Ember shrink a little as a new presence approached Ignius from behind.

“You’re right…we haven’t discussed it.” Magnacia’s voice caused Ignius to jump, turning to face his mother now standing over him, before sitting down on her haunches. “With good reason…little kindling I’m not hiding this for my sake. I’m doing it for your sake. Ember, my dear, why don’t you go see if any of the injured need any salves or fresh bandaging before we depart again.” Magnacia turned her gaze to Ember for a moment, the pink dragoness bowing her head in response.

“Yes ma’am.” Ember said simply, offering Ignius a slight smile before she turned to venture off into the large mass of dragons, leaving Ignius and Magnacia alone with Flame and Typhoon not far away.

“You say you do it for my own sake mum…but it’s just frustrating. Frustrating to know you won’t tell me anything else while I’m having to just accept that dad is de-.” Ignius coughed on the word some, as if it tasted bad in his mouth. “-…dead. I worried if I’d ever see him again for over ten years mum, and now…I never will.”

Magnacia wanted to cry a little…it physically hurt her heart to hear her son, usually so strong and sure in his goings and stances, speak in such a defeated manner. She kept a stern expression for now, this was not the time to break down into tears with so many eyes and earholes on her. She had to remain strong for Ignius and the community no matter the cost of uncountable tears.

“Your father…you’re right that it is likely frustrating. But tell me son…would it do you any better to know how he passed now? Right in this moment…would it help you?” She asked, to which Ignius would give her a perplexed look, but he gave no direct answer. She knew why and it was because he didn’t have one. He was just twenty years old and had been hidden away from the old war for so long…he had little to no experience with loss…not like her, after several hundreds of years worth of war and destruction.

He remained silent.

“No…it would not. What it would do is weigh you down with doubt, my child.” She’d reach down to slowly rub along his scaled head softly, doing her best to comfort him. “I have enough doubts pressing on my shoulders…but you need to be strong for your friends a while longer yet before we reach Warfang. I swear to you, once we settle into the city, we’ll sit down and talk about what Spyro and Cynder told me.”

“Promise?” Ignius asked, earning a slow nod from the older fire dragoness.

“I promise. Now be a good lad and pass the word along that we leave in twenty minutes.” She’d urge him along with her right wing. While he hesitated a moment to leave her side, the young fire drake would nod, heeding her command as he ventured off to spread the word.

She wondered if she was doing the right thing, not sitting down to discuss Ignitus’ death with their son yet. Deep down she asked herself what Ignitus would do in her place.

‘Hah…he’d be just as lost as I am right now.’ She thought to herself. ‘He may have been even worse off.’ Magnacia glanced over to Nix, and then Galacion. Then her eyes turned to Emera sitting next to Storm. The wife of Cyril and his daughter not far. Volteer’s daughter present as well…they were constant reminders that she had lost apart of herself with her husband’s demise.

‘Perhaps Terrador will be receptive to my plight.’ She’d muse, before shaking such thoughts away. This would do her no good now! With a grunt and puff of smoke flaring from her nostrils, she’d return to the head of the formation next to Nix as she prepared for the next takeoff.

“So, Typhoon…that drake is up for guardian apprenticeship?” The ice drake near Typhoon asked him, he simply nodded in response as he glanced back to Storm. “Also have to wonder how he scored a dragoness like her.”

“Aye, Insi, they are...from what I’ve heard they aren’t an apprentice yet, but that’s likely to change before long.” Typhoon said unimpressed, before shaking it off. What made the other electricity dragon think he was worthy of being a future guardian…because he was one’s son?

“I bet you could knock him off that pedestal real quick. If he struggles just flying, he won’t last.” The earth dragon muttered, earning a quick glance from Typhoon…who had to think on those words for a moment.

“Don’t be so sure Vek…he may be a weak flier, but that’s not what our kind specializes in. He’s likely a better student than I and has had the fortune of learning from the current standing electricity guardian…but make no mistake gents, I fully plan to be heard and seen…at the end of the day, I’m not letting Ignius get all the glory of becoming an apprentice.” He eyed down the fire drake after Magnacia had departed.

Any further conversation was cut short when a horn rang out- that was their cue meaning that the rest break was over.

“Well that’s that then…see you guys in Warfang.” Typhoon said firmly, stretching his wings one last time.

Vek gave him a look.

“You’ve never seen the city, have you Typhoon? Your family was from the outskirts in one of the old towns.” Vek cocked a brow, earning a nod from Typhoon.

“Yeah…I’m curious to see just how great this dragon city is.” He’d say before extending his wings once more in preparation for the takeoff.

Spyro would open his travel pack as Sparx would come flying in once again, seating themselves as comfortably as they could manage between armor and supplies.

“Next time I’m getting a blanket or something, gets cold in this thing!” Sparx whined, before Spyro would finally buckle the bag closed once more. The purple dragon turned to Cynder, offering her a smile.

“Ready?” He asked, getting a slight smile in return.

“Definitely.” She said before the two lifted into the air with a mighty flap of their wings, soon being followed by the entire community of dragons following suit.

“Fly now to Warfang!” Nix would call out; the order being sent down the line of the formation.

The rising noon sun over Warfang was pleasing to Terrador. He appreciated quiet, calm moments such as these…but as a warrior, during the war this was usually seen as the calm before the storm. But for now, he simply enjoyed the peace while it lasted. Warfang had sent out messenger falcons to Tall Plains and Munitions Forge…and to his glee, both responded.

The manweersmalls and the atlawa had responded with acceptances of Warfang’s invitation to discuss new terms with the city and the dragons. Once, Warfang was the center of all trade in the dragon kingdom…it would never truly reach such a shining moment ever again, but if they could restore commerce, then it would all be worth it.

His moment of peace was interrupted when he heard the clanking of armor rapidly approaching…he wore armor enough in the past to recognize the sound of metal plates and chainmail working in unison. He opened his eyes after taking a deep breath before turning to face a guard approaching, the fire dragon was panting…he was rushing himself, but the alarm hadn’t sounded so there wasn’t a threat approaching the wall.

“Terrador, sir!” He inhaled, offering a quick salute, to which Terrador would wave down.

“At ease guard, take a breath and then report.” Terrador said simply, turning his entire lumbering body to face the other dragon now, raising a brow now as he waited for them to speak. Once they seemed to slow their breathing down, no longer taxed, they’d clear their throat.

“Sir, the western wall’s guards just sent word that a massive formation is approaching the wall!” He stammered.

“Grublins?” Terrador asked, wings extending as he immediately prepared to take flight to the western wall.

“No sir, they said it looked like dragons!” They said now, and in that moment Terrador felt his warrior’s demeanor falter.

Dragons?

“How many?” He asked after a long pause, trying to not give off any emotions for the guard to read.

“Unsure sir, they just said to find you immediately…but they said it was vital I bring you to the western wall.” The guard said now. Terrador didn’t hesitate a moment longer, his massive wings lifting him into the air, gesturing to the guard.

“Go find Volteer and Cyril, tell them to await me in the city’s square below the tower!” Terrador ordered, to which the guard would simply offer another salute before immediately taking flight towards the guardian chambers at the top of the tower. Terrador, however, took off to the western wall, far too worked up now to simply relax. He had to know…he had to. Had one of the search parties been successful?

The flight took only a few minutes, the mighty earth dragon landing on the wall, the three guards stationed to the wall were rushing about as they moved to get a better view of what had been reported by the watcher…and the sight alone gave Terrador pause. Just off in the distance over the wall appeared to be a large cloud approaching the city.

His eyes failed him from age at times, but they were laser focused now…and he could see a plethora of colors before him. The guardian felt as though his heart might stop from sheer joy. The three guards didn’t fully know how to react as they watched the massed formation of dragons approaching the wall…but Terrador knew the words to speak. He had a duty to do, and he’d see it through.

“DRAGONS APPROACHING!” He bellowed out, taking to the air once again as he sought to get a better angle. “To your stations, I want a constant watch on the perimeter as they’re entering the city!” He’d command, the three Warfang guards moving to their posts on the wall while a formation of mole fighters moved into their battle stations including the cannon along the western wall above the gate…Terrador would take no chances today.

His sight cleared more, and he could spot a shade of purple mixed in at the head of the formation now…Spyro! Terrador would fly out towards the oncoming formation of dragons now, wishing to join their formation and guide them to the center of the city.

“Welcome! Welcome!” Terrador called out, and soon he’d fly in range of those leading the formation.

“Terrador! We’ve returned!” Nix called out, to which the earth dragon would smile before he turned hard, calling back to Nix and those around her.

“Guide them to the center below the tower!” Terrador called to them once more, before the earth dragon would soar across the sky over Warfang to help lead all the dragons in as neatly as they could manage. It was already growing increasingly chaotic as the formation consisted of easily a hundred dragons roughly. But with Nix, Spyro, Cynder and the others leading the group and corralling them there, it wasn’t long before the mass of dragons were circling around the Warfang tower before quickly gliding down to the ground in groups.

Cyril, Volteer, and Tempest were all in utter shock as they witnessed this massive group of dragons from varying races and ages enter their city…as if a floodgate had opened. But there was one emotion they all shared in common at this very moment.

Relief.

For the very first time in centuries, now before them landed enough dragons to truly breathe some life into the aging walls of Warfang…to finally populate their city once again and give its continued existence true meaning once more.

Terrador would land, soon after Nix would as well. Spyro, Cynder, Granite, Storm, Eletara, Ulris, and the three dragons from the Warfang guard they had sent along as an escort landed behind the matured ice dragoness…and with them the small army of dragons who had appeared just over Warfang’s walls moments ago.

“Terrador, what’s going on?!” Cyril asked aloud now, moving to the earth dragon who was looking positively elated.

“Hope has been restored my friend…that is what’s happening.” Terrador would respond with a smile.

Volteer for once was speechless, but he was equally as joyous in this instance…beyond the dragons showing up on their front doorstep, he was merely happy to see Terrador smile about something for the first time in so long. The earth guardian rarely did anymore, and it weighed on Volteer to see him in such a bad way.

Today was a good day.

“Terrador!” Nix shouted above the commotion, approaching the earth guardian with the rest of her search party behind her. “I present to you our findings…I recommend we file them into groups and have mole attendants guide them to their new housing assignments…our party needs a rest.”

“Worry not Nix, we’ll handle it from here.” Terrador said before turning to Ulris as the fire dragon and his fellow guards approached. “Bring me some of the guards from the western wall, send for Mason to have an entourage of mole attendants, and then get some rest Ulris.”

“Yes sir, Terrador!” Ulris saluted with his right paw, turning to Spyro, Cynder and the others. “I leave you all in good hands young dragons. We’ll speak again in due time I hope.” Ulris said with a broad smile, earning curt nods from the young dragons before him. He’d take to the air; the other three guards following after Ulris.

“All of you…this…” Terrador inhaled, glancing down to the group of young dragons he had sent on the mission. “This is more than we could have hoped for…but you should all go get some rest now.” The earth guardian smiled, but the group of young dragons didn’t budge yet.

Spyro took quick note that the others hadn’t moved either, a smile slowly creeping onto his face now.

“I think we’re all good staying a little longer to help where we can.” Granite said firmly, earning a respectful bow of Terrador’s head.

“Very well, I’ll pull you lot in if we need you-.” Terrador went rigid as he turned back to the crowd, seeing something which stopped him dead in his tracks. Cyril, Volteer, and Tempest looked over and also suffered similar reactions.

Cynder and Spyro quickly tracked their gazes to Magnacia, who stepped forth from the crowd with an older earth dragon to her left, Ignius to the right…and a dragon who they hadn’t spotted in the settlement at all.

They were likely an ice dragon, but it was clear they were far older than any other dragon present…the telling sign being that they were an adult but had grown smaller than the rest of the adults around them. Their eyes had a milk-colored hue over them which visibly marked their age. Sparx quickly shot out of Spyro’s travel bag and took note of the situation developing before them.

“Who’s the old gal?” Sparx asked, receiving a quick swat from Spyro.

“Show respect, Sparx.” Spyro said firmly, shutting him up quickly as they bore witness to the reunion. The only hindrance being the amount of talking and commotion from the community of dragons which had come to the city with the search party.

“M-Magnacia?” Terrador asked, barely able to hear his own voice before he cleared his throat. “QUIET!” He boomed out, the force from his baritone voice almost enough to shake the ground beneath them…it worked in making the crowd fall silent now.

“Apologies, to all of you, I’m sure many of you are tired after the journey here and I promise each of you, we’ll get you all sorted and into homes of your own in the residential district. But to do so, we need help from each of you. For any families or groups, please defer to Cyril for your assignments.” He’d gesture to the ice dragon on his flank. “For any individuals, you’ll come to me in just a moment. For any elderly or wounded, please defer to Tempest!” He’d point to the electricity dragoness. “And for any children or dragons under eighteen not apart of a family or group, please see Volteer for assignments to be assigned with a caretaker. We’ll begin sorting through all of you as soon as our mole assistants arrive to help get each and every one of you settled into your own homes here in the city. Thank you!” Terrador finished, turning his attention to Magnacia and her party now.

“I…it’s been a long time.” Terrador said softly, earning a nod from the fire dragoness.

“It has.” Magnacia said in return.

“Rhadal…Ler…they were with you all along as well?” He gestured to the earth drake and old ice dragoness with her.

“They were…much happened which the guardians were not aware of.” Magnacia responded. Ignius didn’t speak as his mother spoke to Terrador, who hadn’t seen him since he was still a hatchling. Terrador’s deep green eyes focused on Ignius now, as if he had seen a ghost…in truth, it was merely because he now appeared so familiar to the guardian.

“Ignius?” Terrador asked softly, leaning his large head down to face the young fire dragon, who could only nod in response.

“Aye, Terrador…I imagine it’s been a long time since you saw me.” Ignius said now.

“A lifetime it feels like…but we’ll have more time to speak. Magnacia, do you remember where the meeting hall is atop the tower?” Terrador would ask, earning a nod from Magnacia now. “Good…meet us all there in three hours time…we have a lot to talk about and now isn’t the time. We need to get your people sorted through.”

Magnacia gave the Earth Guardian a quick nod, gesturing for her troupe to follow after her out of the way. Terrador would turn back to Spyro and the others again.

“All of you, I implore you to get some rest…meet us back at the meeting chamber in three hours. I know you all want to help, but you’ve done more than enough for us today…let us handle this at least.” Terrador implored the six young dragons, who gave each other unsure looks.

Galacion was the first to speak.

“Come now you lot, I think we could all use a good nap. We’ve been on the move for days now…I believe we’ve earned the rest. The guardians and Tempest need space to work, and we need to let our wings have a break.” Galacion reasoned, to which none of them could really argue with the value of her words.

“I guess a quick rest couldn’t hurt…” Granite grumbled, like a hatchling who priorly claimed to not be tired.

“Probably not the worst idea yeah…we’ll see you all in three hours then.” Storm spoke now, gesturing to Eletara. “Coming?” He asked her.

“Yeah…I’m ready to close my eyes for a little while. Maybe we could get a quick lunch from the market district.” Eletara suggested, earning a smile from Storm.

“Whatever you want.” He said with a chuckle, the two walking off now. Soon enough, Granite and Galacion diverted off their own separate ways, leaving Spyro and Cynder alone with Sparx and the crowd of dragons now splitting into lines.

Cynder slipped up alongside Spyro now, offering him a slight smile.

“Come on…I know you want to do everything you can to help, but the best thing we can do is let Terrador and the others do their part and return in three hours.” Cynder reiterated what Galacion had previously said, to which Spyro would finally relent, shoulders relaxing some.

“Alright…let’s go back to the suite.” Spyro let out a sigh. While he wanted to help, he was also relieved to be given a chance at rest after the brief night of sleep they had.

“Dunno why you lot don’t want a chance at naps without making a fuss, you know how many times I just wanted to nap when we were fresh out of the swamp on this crazy adventure?” Sparx darted around the two as they left the city center.

“Well, the difference between you and the rest of us Sparx is that some of us actually provide more to what we do than running in fear of every little thing.” Cynder smirked at the dragonfly.

“H-hey!” He gasped, earning a laugh from the black and purple dragons as they walked side by side.

Hours had passed…three hours since the dragons arrived to Warfang from Magnacia’s community. Spyro and Cynder flew side by side after leaving their suite. The two had fallen asleep almost as soon as they reached their bed in the time it had taken for the mole attendants and guardians to get the new arrivals sorted into the city. Judging by the fact they could still spot a few attendants guiding groups of dragons around the city, they guessed that the guardians had just finished sorting through the final dragons not long ago.

The two had left Sparx behind in the suite, the dragonfly was still fast asleep when they woke. Both had figured he’d rather sleep a while longer and decided to let him do so while they ventured to the council chambers. They spotted Granite and the others arriving to the great door of the chambers leading to the meeting room…with Ignius, Flame, and Ember as well.

“Ah, hey you two.” Granite waved a wing towards them as they landed, Galacion at his flank. “Sleep alright?” He’d ask now.

“Yeah…maybe a little too well, I was more than ready to keep sleeping.” Cynder said with a long stretch of her lithe body while Spyro chuckled in response, his wings stretching once before folding as usual.

“I hear that…lunch was lovely.” Eletara smiled at Storm, who just cheekily smiled in return as she did the same.

“Mother and our community leaders are already inside with the guardians; shall we join them?” Ignius asked now, looking a little anxious for this meeting.

“Lets, I’m eager to hear what they have to talk about.” Galacion would walk past Granite now, approaching the main double-doors leading to the inner chamber now. The others would follow after the ice dragoness warily, almost fearing what would happen as they entered, before she pushed open the doors. The chamber hadn’t changed in the time they were gone…but it felt oddly silent. When they found the meeting table, they saw the Guardians, Nix, Tempest, Magnacia, and the other two dragons with her.

“Good, we’re all here then…I hope you all managed to get some rest.” Terrador broke the silence now. “Young dragons, please find seats at the table. Nix has told me already that you all performed with great intuition on the mission and in getting those dragons to the city…well done.” Terrador said with a bow of his horns.

“It’s simply amazing that an entire community of so many dragons managed to hide for so long in such a simple yet well-hidden location. Stupendous! Marvelous! Dragons fill the streets of Warfang once again!” Volteer said cheerfully.

“Yes! It’s been far too long since the city was even this lively, you all did wonderfully in bringing so many to the capital city to fill our empty homes once more.” Tempest chattered alongside Volteer, Eletara simply rolling her eyes as her parents went on their wordy tangent.

“Indeed.” Cyril cut in, clearing his throat now. “Simple words can’t describe what this means for the dragons of Warfang…but perhaps these words are a good start…well done young dragons.” He’d add, one of his massive wings draped over Nix’s back now. “But gather ‘round and listen in…we have much to discuss…starting with Magnacia’s return.”

All eyes fell to Magnacia now, who gulped some.

“Ignitus always feared something bad happened to Magnacia, it seems he was wrong about your fate…to which we’re glad.” Terrador spoke again. Spyro and the others simply listened as the older dragons spoke. “I’m…sorry about what’s happened…it does weigh heavily on me that Ignitus never got a chance to reunite with you and Ignius.”

“The fault is not yours Terrador…that falls to Malefor…but I understand a funeral is being planned?” Magnacia asked, the Earth Guardian nodding in response.

“Indeed, we’re going to do our best to commemorate Ignitus’ sacrifice to honor what may have been the sole act which ensured victory.” Cyril set some scrolls onto the large debate table, sliding them over to Magnacia who would slowly unroll them to study each one.

Spyro and Cynder hadn’t known when a ceremony would be held for Ignitus but hearing it in talks with the guardians gave them the impression that it was now closer than they had anticipated. While Spyro felt dread as he feared how he’d be able to hold himself together when it finally happened, Cynder was secretly glad. She knew that with so many dragons in the city, they’d have an attendance worthy of the former Fire Guardian’s sacrifice…as well, it was time they finally sent Ignitus off with some dignity.

“We can discuss the details of my husband’s funeral later…personal involvement will be discussed with individuals. For now, I believe you brought the purple dragon and others here to bear witness as old customs demand the candidates for the Warfang Council be presented before citizens of the community.” Magnacia spoke curtly, straight to business. “But first…I have two young dragons to present to you guardians.”

That caught their interest…Spyro glanced over to Granite and Galacion, gaging them for potential feelings on their presence…Granite seemed a bit uninterested in the entire meeting the moment political talk came into the matter. Galacion’s eyes were locked on their elders as they spoke, not wanting to miss any details…she was most certainly her mother’s daughter. He then glanced over to Cynder- who seemed to be doing the same as him. She studied over Eletara and Storm- the two seemed moderately interested to listen…Ignius seemed to be with his own thoughts. He was likely still sore over the news of his father’s fate.

Spyro glanced back over to Granite and Galacion, silently getting their attention with a stretch of his wings before gesturing over to the fire drake’s blank expression.

Granite silently smiled, glancing over to Galacion as he tilted his horns their way, to which Galacion nodded in return before the two of them got up and shifted positions to go to Ignius’ flank. Ignius twitched a little as Granite gave him a pat on the back with a strong paw. Galacion sat down on her haunches, leaning over to silently speak.

“Are you alright?” She asked softly, to which Ignius really couldn’t find a proper answer to give her.

“I…that’s a lot more complicated to answer than one would think right now.” Ignius let out a heavy sigh. Galacion and Granite felt for him, but they didn’t budge.

“Want us to just sit here with you?” Galacion asked.

“I won’t force you to…but the company is welcome.” Ignius said quietly, giving her a slight smile as she and Granite remained close to Ignius’ flanks, the fire drake now seemingly given a new sense of life to pay attention to his mother and the rest as they spoke.

“I present to you both Flame and Ember…born of the Year of the Dragon.” Magnacia gestured to Flame and Ember.

Volteer, Tempest, and Cyril seemed to visibly freeze…all sets of eyes on the two fire dragons as they made themselves known.

“Uhhh…hi.” Flame nervously waved, while Ember shyly hid by Flame’s right side, doing her best to look as unnoticeable as possible.

“W-when you told me some eggs had been taken from the temple, I never imagined we’d see the hatchlings from those eggs.” Volteer eyed them over curiously, Tempest remaining silent for a moment as she did the same.

“I concur…but it warms my heart to see them here, alive and well…you two young dragons may not realize it, but you both standing here is a victory in its own right.” Cyril would address them both.

“Flame…Ember…welcome back to Warfang.” Terrador gave them both a neutral expression.

Flame seemed to brighten up some, nudging at Ember’s side some.

“Thanks! I…don’t remember much of the city but I’m glad we’re finally here again.” Flame nodded his head.

Ember cleared her throat now.

“I…yeah…comfortable as Magnacia had us in the sanctuary, I’m glad to be home.” Ember added, trying to avoid making eye contact with the older dragons studying her. Volteer and Tempest could visibly barely hold back their endless questions regarding Ember’s unique appearance…but the look Nix gave them both halted them dead in their tracks.

“They haven’t received special training to fully discover their abilities pertaining to the Year of the Dragon…I’m requesting they train with Volteer to hopefully unlock these abilities in due time.” Magnacia spoke formally to which Terrador would nod in response.

“They’ll have it…you both may now sit down at the table.” Terrador would wave them both along, letting the two dragons now remove themselves from the spotlight as it was clear they wanted to be far away from it.

The two slipped past Magnacia, now finding themselves next to Spyro and Cynder. Spyro smiled at the two dragons, Cynder leaning forward so she could listen in as well.

“After this is over, do you two want to see some of the city with us?” Spyro asked, Cynder eagerly nodding in agreement with the purple dragon.

“I-I don’t want to impose on you both.” Ember said quietly, but Flame would nod.

“We’d love to.” He turns to Ember, giving her that contagious smile he was capable of, to which she couldn’t help but give a slight smile in return.

“A-alright. We’ll meet you after the meeting ends.” Ember added.

Magnacia would move to the side now, allowing the earth and ice dragons to step forward now.

“By my eyes, I hardly believed it at the city square and even now…Ler. It has been too long, master.” Cyril bowed his head.

Spyro and Cynder could hardly believe they missed these two dragons in the settlement…but perhaps Magnacia intended for them to be out of sight until they knew their group could be trusted.

“Indeed, my student…I hope you managed to temper that staggering ego you had as a guardian apprentice.” Ler spoke, her voice low and a bit gravelly, holding many years of experience.

“I’d…like to think I’m a bit better now.” Cyril smiled, as though if the Ice Guardian could blush, he would have in this moment. He turned to the young dragons gathered at the table. “Young dragons, this is Ler, the dragoness who trained me when I was but a young drake in guardian training.”

“I apologize for not meeting you young dragons sooner…could the dragoness Cynder please come closer? My eyes fail me at this age and I’m afraid I’ve lost my sense of color many winters ago.” Ler requested, to which Cynder went a bit rigid now…before she got up from her haunches, giving Spyro a confused look before she’d move around the perimeter of the table.

Soon, she’d stand before the old ice dragoness, who leaned down closer and closer to the former Terror of the Skies, those milky hued eyes meeting her emerald ones…as if staring into her very soul…studying her.

Cynder felt her muscles grow tense after staring into those milky eyes for what felt like hours to her…in reality, Ler was merely studying the black dragoness for mere seconds, but what she was searching for in Cynder’s green eyes was unclear to all who witnessed.

“I sense regret…doubt…but remorse, courage, bravery, selflessness…all quality traits in a dragoness such as yourself. Many told us to fear the Terror of the Skies…but I do not see them here. I see before me Cynder, one of the heroes of the age. Let it be known, as my first action as elder of Warfang, given the title by the guardians themselves…is to state that you will always be welcome in Warfang.” Ler’s hardened demeanor didn’t break, but her words radiated with kind intention, which struck Cynder’s heart like a bolt of lightning.

“Elder? Then…the vote has already been cast?” Galacion asked aloud, earning a nod from Terrador.

“It wasn’t much of a vote…the elder of the council must display wisdom to help keep the council in line and true to their goals…Ler is an unmatched fit for the role. We decided she should take the position…and she accepted…we are one step closer to having a reformed council” Terrador spoke softly, trying to not interrupt Ler as she placed a gentle paw on Cynder’ shoulder, gently squeezing it before pulling it away.

“I…thank you, Elder Ler…I promise you I’ll do my utmost to prove worthy of the honor you’ve just given me.” Cynder smiled, glancing over to Spyro who gave her a cheery smile in return.

“Your actions speak loud as is…I look forward to it.” Ler smiled, turning to take her position at the table now. Cynder would blush, returning to Spyro’s side as she leaned against him some. Her muscles felt a little wobbly, having received something truly special.

Acceptance and acknowledgement…such a thing could not be easily challenged by anyone holding ill towards Cynder for her past. This was a true chance for her to begin living somewhat as a normal dragoness once again. Spyro’s left paw slid forward, to which she didn’t hesitate to intertwine with her right.

“And I present my suggested candidate for General, Rhadal.” Magnacia gestured for the earth dragon to step forward, Terrador leaning forward as the two earth dragons met gazes.

“You’ve looked younger.” Rhadal spoke in a commanding, gravelly tone. Terrador perked a brow, letting out a puff of air some from his nostrils.

“And you thinner.” Terrador challenged…in this moment, the room seemed to shift uncomfortably.

“Are you saying I’ve gained weight, old friend?” Rhadal asked, as if he was legitimately offended by the mere idea.

“Yes, as a matter of fact.” Terrador said bluntly.

Rhadal seemed to be trying to hold in his emotions, doing his best to match Terrador’s stone-like expression…but after over a minute of continued silence, the aged earth dragon rolled his head back and began to bellow out a guttural laugh!

“Aha! It is good to see you again Terrador. I am glad the war didn’t claim you as well…dreadful news regarding Ignitus.” Rhadal spoke in a more upbeat tone, to which Terrador finally eased up in his hard expression, offering a nod.

“Dreadful indeed…I believe a former commander of your ability would make a well-situated General of the Warfang forces…and to help get the Dragon Vanguard restoration effort underway. We’ll vote on it in the morning.” Terrador offered a nod, to which Rhadal would move to the side.

“Now…on the matter of a Guard Captain of Warfang, trusted with the law enforcement and protection of the city and those within it to work with the General…” Cyril rubbed his chin as he spoke, before his eyes seemed to narrow.

“Spyro, young dragon, Ulris has been with the Warfang Guard for many years now and has served valiantly above his calling as a guard…do you think he’d make a suitable Guard Captain?” Cyril asked the purple dragon, now frozen and rigid.

“I…you…want my opinion?” Spyro asked, earning a nod from Cyril, Volteer and Terrador adding their own approving nods. “But…wouldn’t you three be better suited to make such a recommendation?”

Ler spoke first.

“The purple dragon was once held in the highest regard as being one even the guardians and council could confide in for important decisions…Malefor may have strayed from the path of good, but this is where the cycle must begin anew young dragon…do not doubt the trust the guardians have in your council.” Ler said reassuringly, Cynder nodding in agreement.

“She’s right, Spyro, they trust you and your input…for good reason.” Cynder leaned in to lick his cheek quickly, reassuring him as he’d clear his throat, finding the courage to speak now before the guardians and all his peers gathered around.

“W-well…from what I know, Ulris never allowed grublins to breach the city whenever he and the guard could prevent it. He seems a good dragon from what I gathered when we journeyed together on the mission, despite my limited time speaking with him…but if you were to ask me if he’d make a good Guard Captain…my answer would be yes. Many in the guard already look to him for command, this would just make it official.” Spyro said firmly, earning approving nods from the older dragons present…Granite too but he wasn’t looking in his direction.

“Well said Spyro…we’ll also vote on Ulris’ induction to the council as Captain of the Warfang Guard in the morning…we will also be deliberating on Nix’s candidacy as regent of Warfang. All guardians will attend as well as chosen dragons from the community and members of the guard to raise approval or concern on the matter, and if an agreement is met, vote upon it as a community. We shall meet at seven in the morning on Santer, this month of Aulurn. It is my great honor to declare this first official meeting adjourned and dismissed. Everyone please depart the chambers…except you Magnacia, I must speak with you a moment alone.” Terrador would speak aloud now, his voice commanding and respectfully requesting the room be vacated.

All gathered would get up and leave as requested, slowly filing out of the council chambers now in lines of two. The younger dragons were the first ones out, Ler with Rhadal assisting the old dragoness out side by side, and soon the Guardians with their mates were the last out with the great doors closing behind…leaving Magnacia and Terrador alone in silence.

He’d slowly approach her now…perhaps some would view such a meeting as a surprise, but he knew she was of the same mindset that the world waited for no one, and these important matters had to be sorted out now…not later.

She reminded him of Ignitus in so many ways.

“I must discuss this with Cyril and Volteer further before tomorrow…but meet me here tomorrow after the meeting, we must speak on another vital matter regarding the guardians...and our lack of a Fire Guardian.” Terrador spoke calmly, garnering her for some reaction…but she’d give none, nothing he could distinguish.

Silently, she dreaded speaking of the vacant position left by her husband’s death…but she also knew the guardians had to be complete again. Their traditions demanded the guardian roles be filled…or for the order to be disbanded completely.

“Very well…I assume you want my help in finding a candidate to fill into the position, at least until an apprentice completes their training to take on the role, yes?” Magnacia asked…to her surprise, he shook his head.

“I already have an individual in mind, but I must first see what the other guardians think. Oh…as well, Volteer told me he’d like to witness where Flame and Ember are along with their training before he begins with them…bring them to the academy district at the same time? Ignius as well, I’d like to assess him as well. The rest of your young dragons will be assessed for training in due time.” He raised a brow, but Magnacia simply nodded.

“Very well…I’m curious to know who you’d suggest to take the position. I’ll meet you tomorrow before lunch with Flame, Ember, and Ignius?” She asked, Terrador silently nodding. “Very well, I’ll see you in the morning then, Terrador.”

Magnacia without another word turned to leave the chambers, the heavy doors opening and closing behind her now, leaving Terrador alone with his thoughts.

‘I hope you’re watching over me Ignitus…how am I going to tell Spyro?’ He thought to himself, frowning as little more than the silence was his answer.

The dragons exiting the council chambers began to disperse already, all except some from Spyro and Cynder’s circle along with Flame and Ember.

“Ready to look around the city you two?” Spyro asked with a grin, earning a nod from the two as Cynder joined them at his side. But before they could think of leaving, Spyro felt another paw on his shoulder, glancing over to see Galacion tugging him aside.

“Cynder dear may I barrow Spyro?” She asked.

“Well, we were just about to leave with Flame and Ember for some city exploring…” Cynder frowned a little, but Galacion simply waved her off.

“Oh, not to worry dear, I just need to speak with him for a moment! You’ll be on your merry way in short time.” Galacion smiled innocently, and Cynder would relent, Spyro still looking very confused.

“Alright…see you in a second.” Cynder smiled, turning back to Flame and Ember as Galacion pulled Spyro aside and out of listening range.

“I- Galacion what is it?” He asked, as though he was in trouble, or worried she was in trouble.

“You need to take Cynder on a date night!” Galacion smiled, poking a claw to his golden crested chest, the purple dragon blushing a dark violet color as she made the suggestion.

“A date night?” He asked slowly, turning to glance at Cynder before looking back at Galacion. “What brought this on?”

“Come now Spyro! We just got back from an important mission and it would be such a lovely thing to do for her. Storm intends to take Eletara on a date night now that we’re back, it’ll be fun for you both!” Galacion grinned. Spyro had to wonder how invested the ice dragoness was in their love lives.

“I’ve…never been on a date, I wouldn’t even know where to begin with taking her out.” Spyro frowned some, the idea was actually more appealing to him than he had originally thought it, but he was still a hatchling when it came to relationships…he and Cynder both were vastly new to this.

“Fret not, I’ve made a list of potential activities you can do together! If you get started I’m sure you can pick those which sound most appealing for tomorrow!” Galacion would reach into her satchel she wore on her side, retrieving a scroll of paper showing some script through the paper’s white color.

“When did you make this?” Spyro asked, peeking at the list a moment before he slid the scroll into his own satchel- mostly meant for the gold coins the guardians had set aside for both he and Cynder.

“Don’t worry about that! Just go through the list when you can and find some fun things to do…enjoy yourselves! Granted the list is a little strained due to the city still needing some repairs, but most options on that list are viable! Just keep the list for your own purposes and do something nice for her. For you as well! I promise…do this and you’ll both have fun before the night is done.” Galacion smiled at the purple dragon.

“Well…” Spyro muttered, glancing back at Cynder as she spoke with Flame and Ember, simply admiring her natural beauty, the sun gleaming off her black and red scales, before turning back to Galacion. “…I do want to make her happy.”

“I know you do…good luck and have fun.” Galacion turned Spyro around now, urging him to return to Cynder, Flame and Ember. The four began walking towards the stairway overlooking the rest of the city below the tower, Cynder giving Spyro a curious glance.

“What did Galacion need?” She asked, Spyro unsure of how he should respond now.

“…She just gave me some friendly advice is all. She also wondered if Ignius is a robe or ceremonial armor type of drake.” Spyro said with a smile, earning a chuckle from her.

“He strikes me as the robe type.” Cynder responded to the query.

“Nah, he’d one-hundred percent wear heavy ceremonial armor just for a formal event…in fact I think most of us drakes would. I think the dragoness’ would look good in formal armor too!” Flame grinned, Ember smiling as well.

“I’m not so sure, I’m sure armor would just make me look rounder.” Ember said sheepishly, Flame shaking his head.

“Nah, you’d totally nail the look.” He countered, the pink dragoness averting her gaze as her cheeks darkened to a rosy hue.

“Enough of that, let’s see what the city has for us today.” Spyro interjected, much to Ember’s silent praise, the four dragons not wasting another moment before taking to the air and darting towards the market district of the city.

Much weighed on Spyro’s mind…the morning votes, the new dragons in the city…but now he had something less dramatic to think about too.

He had a date night to plan!

Chapter Text

Spyro was stirred awake when he felt the warmth of Cynder now vacant from beneath his wing, his eyes refocusing to find himself on their balcony…the memory came abruptly back. Yes…they’d watched the sunrise together again, the cool morning air brushed over his purple and gold scales, a smell of spice on the air.

Today was a new day.

His gaze turned to the city and he could only take note of the new feeling within the city, an air of actual happiness now. He could see groups of dragons going about their business throughout the city…he felt a sense of pride about him at seeing the spectacle. It still felt like the city was lacking in numbers, but this was a massive step in the right direction for Warfang and the dragon race itself. Spyro remembered his promise to Ignitus, to help the dragon race however he could before his duty was done, a duty that would never truly end until the time was right. Deep down though, he knew he’d have to keep acting on behalf of their kingdom for many years to come. Between years and years worth of training, duties to oversee, people to protect and keep safe…would he ever truly know peace?

But today was not to be one of distress and anxiety.

Today was about Cynder.

He remembered the list Galacion had given him the prior afternoon, marking well the ideas the ice dragoness had offered. Most of the ideas were a bit out of his knowhow to make happen…a moonlit song and dance with a hired mole band? Many other items on said list shared a similar overly romantic corniness to them. A few stood out to him…much more feasible to his mind and how he could pull it off.

When did she even make this list? He could only wonder as he read from the list in his leather pouch on his side, making sure Cynder wasn’t able to see it if she came back to the balcony. He could hear some water running, likely she was cleaning herself up some.

The first idea on the list which seemed rather sound to him was a romantic picnic dinner in the Warfang park around the tower’s base. He could do that! He just had to make it a surprise for Cynder. One of the ideas labeled as ‘precursor ideas’ was a trip around the various shops in Warfang’s market district. Perhaps his favorite idea was where she wrote down the mention of stargazing.

He and Sparx had always done the tradition of watching the sun rise, perhaps he’d start a new tradition with Cynder. Something they could call their own to enjoy and remember on.

He had a general idea of what he wanted to do with Cynder, tucking the list away sight in his satchel. He’d rise up from his laying position, approaching the washroom- giving a gentle knock with a forepaw.

“Cynder?” He’d ask quietly, earning a tired yawn from the other end.

“Yes?” He’d hear from the other side of the door, past the sound of the running water.

“I’ve got some things to discuss with the guardians, I just remembered only a few moments ago.” Spyro frowned, he had never been a good liar- but he could only hope it was innocent sounding enough.

“That’s alright, when will you be free? Do you need me to come along as well?” She asked, which had the purple dragon pondering the question for a moment.

“No- they just asked for me, something relating to my training, I think they’re trying to set me up with Magnacia as my new tutor for fire…want to meet up with me in the market district an hour past noon?” He asked, only hearing the running water from the other side before finally she’d speak up.

“Sure thing, I’ll see you later then!” He was startled as the door opened following her sentence, the black dragoness leaning in to nudge his muzzle with her own, a kind smile on her face as she pecked him a kiss. He just sighed before pulling away, giving a quick nod.

“I’ll see you then, love you. Sparx!” He called over, waking the dragonfly up from his slumber.

“Gah! What’s the big idea?!” Sparx grumbled as he nearly fell from his perch above the fireplace.

“Come on, we’re meeting with the guardians- they requested my presence and I know better than to leave you alone for too long.” Spyro smirked, earning an eyeroll from Sparx.

“Yeah, I need to be watched. Just remember that I was the one who wanted to stay in the swamp but decided to chase after your big purple tail-end!” Sparx countered, darting after Spyro- but before the two could make it out the door, Spyro glanced back to the washroom door.

“Love you...” He said simply, a bit more quietly now- she wouldn’t have heard the purple dragon utter the words in return, but he meant them with all his heart. And with that, the purple dragon and dragonfly would depart from the suite.

Such an alien concept to Spyro- having someone he could exchange those words with that wasn’t his surrogate brother and parents…someone who had earned his love, his respect, his affection…his loyalty. Through words and action, not unconditionally like his parents.

It was a feeling he all to much enjoyed…a feeling he wanted to repay, thus why he entertained Galacion’s ideas.

Almost immediately, Sparx caught onto the fact Spyro had them heading in the direction of the market district…not the guardian tower. The Dragonfly being left to wonder why they had changed heading…then it dawned on him.

Spyro never just did something without a plan in mind…bad plans or good. He’d seen it so many times now. Munitions Forge, Concurrent Skies, the Well of Souls, and most recently…the Belt of Fire. All times where Spyro charged off with either a well laid out plan or what could only be described as the most reckless and badly made plan possible.

He was thankful at least his purple surrogate brother wasn’t dragging him off to mortal danger and peril…yet.

“We’re…not goin’ to the guardian tower, are we?” Sparx asked, giving Spyro a pointed look as they flew past several buildings, the market district growing closer.

“Nope…I’m here early to find a gift for Cynder…and put an array of food together.” Spyro would comment softly, trying to not give Sparx too much to latch onto, but it wasn’t very successful as Sparx’s gaze seemed to downturn a little.

“You mean you woke me up just to go shopping? And it’s just to do with Cynder? Come on bro…you don’t need me for that!” Sparx protested, doing his best to get out of this.

“You don’t have to stay the whole time…I just need your help with this part. I’ve never gone on a date before, and I could use all the help I can get without her finding out…that means you.” Spyro glanced over at Sparx as they’d land in the market.

“A date of all things…you’re already smooching and living together, why go on a date? Seems you’ve gotten past the point of needing those.” Sparx whined, ever trying to keep himself out of Spyro and Cynder’s love life and failing to do so as Spyro insisted on dragging him along.

“Please, Sparx? I just need some help…sometimes a second pair of eyes is just enough.” Spyro asked sincerely, stopping to turn his amethyst gaze to his dragonfly brother.

Sparx just rolled his eyes.

“Alright stop with the sappy eyes…fine. But I’m not gonna like it.” Sparx hovered along with Spyro as he gave his brother a quick smile before turning his attention to the first shop on his destination list: ‘Illustrious Crafts’, the gray sign greeting them. The two brothers could already see the glint and sparkling beauty of crafted jewelry awaiting them inside.

“Hoo boy…you’re gonna make us look at jewelry…great.” Sparx huffed, Spyro ignoring his brother’s protests as they’d enter the store, the mole named Ders standing at the counter- giving an overjoyed look as he spotted the purple dragon entering his store!

“Bless me- the purple dragon! Here in my store! It’s one thing to get a visit from one of the great heroes, but now to have both of them make a visit to my store, well- it can be nothing short of good fortune! Come…come…what can I get you good sir?” He’d ask, standing and bowing before the purple dragon.

“Errr…hello…sorry, Cynder came in here?” Spyro asked, glancing around at the selection available.

“Aye she did m’lord, I gave her the set of silver emerald inlayed jewelry. The bracelets, anklets, and tail ring.” He nodded, smiling up at the dragon and dragonfly.

“I see…well, I did want to come in here and find her a gift but if she’s already been in here…” He frowned, almost defeated sounding.

“Nonsense good sir! The set did miss out on neck jewelry, perhaps that would interest you? A fine necklace for a lovely lady goes far!” Ders clasped his tiny hands together.

“Well…I suppose it couldn’t hurt.” Spyro’s smile returned, the mole turning to lead him to their necklace selections.

“Splendid! Also in case the lady Cynder didn’t tell you, my cousin who works at the forge has a gift of his own for you…but for now, onto browsing!” Ders said gleefully.

“The forge? I’ll have to take time to visit soon.” Spyro nodded, following after Ders.

“This is gonna be expensive…isn’t it?” Sparx asked, getting a warning glance from Spyro as to not be rude in the mole’s store.

“Now I have just the idea for lady Cynder if you wanted to talk potentially having something edited for her.” Ders led the purple dragon and dragonfly along further into the shop.

The city was in great talks as news from the guardian tower began to spread…talks of the election’s results as dragons had come from across the city, begrudgingly of course…many just wished to get more rest after the long flight from Magnacia’s sanctuary…but it wasn’t to be for now. There were democratic matters which had to be handled and the new council needed to be elected. Now. Not later.

Cynder and several others of their group stood in witness as the votes passed through their ballots, old and young dragons casting their votes for the positions up for grabs. Cynder knew who would win in each position…as if it was even a debate. But still, she found it fascinating to watch dragons vote all the same.

When time came for the ballots to be counted, those gathered waited there for several long minutes…until finally, Terrador stepped forward.

“Where’s Spyro?” Granite asked, earning an agreeing nod from Storm and Eletara. Flame and Ember were on Cynder’s other flank but were paying more attention to the vote itself for now, Emera silent and complacent…not really interested but still she bore witness for the sake of being seen. Galacion however paid special attention to the conversation Granite had drummed up, Ignius silently watching on her flank now, as if deep in thought.

“He said he had matters to handle with the guardians earlier this morning…I’m supposed to be meeting him in the market a little past noon, I’m not sure why.” Cynder shrugged…but Galacion could only conceal a giddy smile as she knew all too well what Spyro was currently up to.

“Ooh! I think Terrador is about to announce the ballot winners!” Eletara said quietly, the others quickly silencing themselves as they’d lean in to listen.

Terrador would clear his throat, getting everyone’s attention now as he stood forward.

“Citizens of Warfang, today we come together for the first time to announce the reunification of the Council of Warfang…something which has not happened since the beginning of the old war against the Dark Master. One position has already been filled, that being the position of the council’s elder, Ler, under judgement that she’ll fit the role well and was a key addition before the vote came to order…now then, let us continue with the announcements.” Terrador would speak in his deep baritone, shifting some papers around with his right forepaw.

“By overwhelming votes, the new Guard Captain of Warfang shall be…” He’d read the list’s first line. “Ulris…may the new captain serve this great city well!” Terrador bellowed out, several loud voices giving their agreement. “It is no secret that Ulris’ name became well known during the war, even before the Year of the Dragon, when they and the Warfang Guard held the city against impossible odds.”

“I only did my duty then…and I’ll only ever do my duty to Warfang now…but thank you for your confidence in me.” Ulris bowed his head.

“Next…for the position of the General to lead the martial forces of the dragon kingdom…Rhadal, veteran of the Farisso Fields and Hero of the Battle of Lumani Island. May he serve the realm well in this position.” Terrador finished, giving his old friend a smile, as Rhadal stood forward, bowing his head to the crowd.

“Hard times lay ahead of us, but my first act as General shall be the reforming of the Dragon Vanguard, to serve as the militant arm of the dragons once more should anyone ever threaten our kingdom again!” Rhadal spoke in his gravelly voice.

“As if there was a doubt those two would win their positions…this isn’t much of a vote until the next time the council comes together to reorganize, and a new generation comes forth.” Galacion rolled her eyes, bored with the pomp to the ceremony…but still, this was her area of study and she’d learn it well.

Cynder noticed Tempest and Nix step forward now, the final line coming on Terrador’s list.

“And for the position of Regent of Warfang, acting on behalf of all of the city’s affairs and effectively helping co-lead the council alongside the guardians…in a close vote, Nix shall take up the title.” Terrador turned to Nix now, Tempest’s shoulders slumping ever so slightly, but smiling in favor of her colleague.

Cyril looked all too cheery about the decision…Volteer gave his friend and colleague a sideways glance, as if displeased by his smugness over Nix winning the vote.

“As former Chief-diplomat, and now standing Regent of Warfang, I’ll do everything in my power to ensure the city flourishes once more! Trade will soon be resumed, commerce will flow again, and with some diplomatic negotiations the city shall be restored once more!” Nix claimed triumphantly, earning an equally triumphant cheer from the crowd.

Eletara gave her mother a pitying look, knowing that it took a lot of personal bravery from her mother to try and step forward for the position.

“Please clear the chambers…Magnacia, please remain behind, we need to speak further in the inner chamber.” Terrador would wave his wing towards the door, an almost mournful look crossing his expression now. It had Cynder raising a brow out of concern for the earth guardian as he turned to enter the inner chamber past the large doors leading further into the hall. Many dragons began clearing out, but Cynder refused to leave…not just yet.

She had to know why Terrador looked that way.

“Flame, Ember, and Ignius please meet me and Terrador at the training grounds in an hour.” Volteer spoke up now, getting the attention of the three young fire dragons before he’d depart with Tempest and the others in the crowd.

“The training grounds?” Ember asked nervously.

“Likely to assess Magnacia’s training she’s given us…it’s nothing to worry about Ember.” Flame comforted her, she only nodded in response, understandingly.

“He’s right- likely they’re just sizing up potential guardian apprentice candidates…best go freshen up some before we make our way there.” Ignius stated calmly, departing from the council chambers now. Flame and Ember would soon leave together, both internally questioning what would come to pass at the training grounds.

Galacion, Storm, and Eletara weren’t long behind with Emera following up, though she gave a curious glance to Cynder and Granite as they hadn’t budged yet.

“Cynder? Granite? Are you coming?” Emera asked, giving the black dragoness a curious look.

“Not just yet…you all go on ahead of me.” Granite gave Cynder an understanding nod. He too was curious.

“Alright, meet us in the market like I told you for lunch!” Emera smiled and gave them both a wave of her wing.

Cynder’s gaze remained locked on the door which Magnacia and Terrador had vanished behind…and her paws began moving closer to it as if on their own agenda.

“Cynder…what do you think?” He’d ask quietly, following the black dragoness as they slowly approached the door together.

“I think Terrador is hiding something…something he’s afraid for anyone else to hear. I shouldn’t pry…but he told us no more secrets, and I want to know what’s going on with him and Magnacia.” Cynder said sternly, both of them nearly pressing into the door now before they thought about their current predicament.

“The door was designed to be soundproof likely…I could take in through the earth to hear a little better but Terrador might detect me if I did so.” Granite frowned.

“Don’t worry…I’ll handle it and tell you what I know once I cross back over, just wait here.” Cynder said firmly, before the earth guardian witnessed her vanish into a pool of black mist in the floor, seeping under the door effortlessly!

“Handy trick.” He smiled, watching Cynder make use of her shadow powers.

On the other side, Cynder was greeted with a dimly lit antechamber which was rightfully sealed off- it was likely meant for silent deliberation with the council, even past the actual council chambers as to avoid potential political rivals listening in…but Cynder wasn’t one and she merely wished to know what was weighing on the earth guardian’s mind.

“-the position was Ignitus’ position…my husband, Terrador!” She heard Magnacia as she came into listening range, seeing their silhouettes striking against the wall now from the dim candle lighting.

“I know Magnacia, he was my best friend and I’m going to mourn him for years to come…do you think this easy for me? To offer the position of fire guardian to his widow?” Terrador asked stiffly, causing Cynder to go rigid…at the mention of Ignitus and the position of fire guardian.

“This doesn’t feel right Terrador…going behind others’ backs to discuss filling his position as if it were that easy.” Magnacia said woefully, Cynder’s heart starting to beat a little faster now.

“It will never feel right…the time will never feel balanced…but we need a fire guardian Magnacia. The guardians are still needed, and the laws of the order dictate we cannot function without a guardian in every role, lest we be disbanded for good.” Terrador let out a heavy sigh which even Cynder could practically feel.

“…and what about Spyro?” Magnacia asked, causing Cynder’s blood to go deathly cold, with the purple dragon crossing her thoughts now regarding the matter.

“He likely won’t take it well…but if I approach him soon enough with this, the shock may yet be lessened.” Terrador tried to sound a little more confident, but Cynder could almost see through even now…he hated every moment of this. “We cannot let Spyro’s feelings dictate the matter of the fire guardian’s vacancy…please Magnacia…stand with us and help train the next fire guardian to take up the mantle.”

“I fear he already suspects you’re trying to replace Ignitus, Terrador, if he learns you are behind his back, it could cause a rift to form between him and the guardians. Such a division would only weaken the cause of Warfang, strengthening opposition against the guardians. You know as well as I that not all dragons who find their way back to the city are going to be in full agreement with the order’s decision of who has taken up position in the council.” Magnacia responded to Terrador now.

“Maybe you’re right…but still so soon after Ignitus’ passing, there will never be a good time. We cannot wait for the next week, the next month…year…decade. We need the guardians to be whole again. Now. Not later. Now! If what you say is true, then we need to present the council’s opposition with a whole order…and a fire guardian must be present to train the next guardian apprentice. If your training regime later shows in any of the three fire dragons you brought with you…Ember, Flame, Ignius…then it shows me us you can be the temporary guardian to follow Ignitus and train the successor.” Terrador finished his monologue…every word had Cynder waiting in anticipation for the next.

Cynder waited on bated breath as she waited for Magnacia to speak again, wondering what she would say in response…she almost expected her to turn down the offer and request from Terrador.

“…alright. But you cannot let anyone else except the guardians know just yet. There are matters which must be attended before such knowledge becomes public.” Magnacia would finally respond. Cynder felt as if a rock had formed in her stomach, as if she knew forbidden knowledge.

In a way she did.

“I don’t like keeping this from Spyro for long…Ignitus was like a father to him, Ignitus always felt responsible for Spyro ever since his real parents brought his egg to the temple…and when they never came forward to claim his egg as their own before his hatchday.” Terrador said solemnly…Cynder felt as if she’d collapse.

“When will you make it official?” Magnacia asked.

“In three days time at Ignitus’ funeral, but tonight after the celestial moons have risen, we have our own ceremony planned. Meet us at the guardian towers then.” Terrador affirmed.

Cynder now not only knew knowledge of Magnacia taking the mantle as fire guardian, even if it was only until a true fire guardian apprentice could take the mantle…but now regarding Spyro’s true parents. She had never heard Spyro speak of them if he was ever interested in knowing who they were. He only ever addressed Flash and Nina when the matter of his childhood family came up.

She wondered if Spyro was simply trying to suppress the idea that he didn’t know who his true biological parents were. Maybe he was…she didn’t know right now, but she felt as though she had already learned too much. Before anything else could be said, Cynder would quickly turn back to the door, vanishing beneath it as she evaporated into shadows, rematerializing on the other side.

Granite took quick note of her distressed look, placing a paw on her shoulder.

“Cynder? What happened? What were they saying?” He asked quickly, trying to regain her attention. She turned her emerald gaze to his once more, trying to shake it off.

“Magnacia…they plan to make her the new fire guardian…” Cynder clutched her head some…trying to come to terms with everything.

“Fire guardian? So soon? They must have a lot of faith in her to take over…but that’s all? Nothing else?” He asked…she half considered telling him about the matter of Spyro’s parents, but the thought of the purple dragon reminded her that she would soon be running late. “You look distressed Cynder.”

“No…nothing else…and I’m fine Granite, just…this is all too sudden. Please…just, can you keep this to yourself? I need to go find Spyro, it’s almost time to meet him in the market district. We’ll talk about this with the others when I get the chance.” Cydner would start towards the chamber doors leading back outside of the tower.

“Alright…just be careful Cynder…I’ll see you and Spyro soon.” Granite would say before he turned to fly back towards the residential district, Cynder taking off towards the markets…a lot on her mind.

Spyro took note of the sundial in the market district, noting the time…he also took note of the bustle growing in the city, especially in the market, he knew that the vote must have concluded. Cynder would be by soon, she had told him the previous day after their tour with Flame and Ember that she wished to view the proceedings. Spyro had intended to take part in watching…but he wished to commit to preparing this date, which meant having the element of surprise on his side.

If only he knew what had happened following the proceedings.

Sparx hovered by his side, closing the lid of the basket Spyro had gotten and filled with various items, giving Spyro an incredulous look.

“And I’m supposed to get this all the way to the park? Well…at least it isn’t far.” Sparx huffed, rubbing his hands together.

“If you don’t think you can make it with the basket I’ll go with you.” Spyro offered, but the dragonfly shook his head.

“I got this…I got this!” Sparx grunted as he flapped his wings rapidly, hands grabbing the basket tightly as he lifted with all his strength. Some ultimately doubted the ability a dragonfly possessed…they looked small but like some insects they could carry quite a bit more than their own bodyweight. He was struggling to hold the basket up, but thankfully Spyro hadn’t crammed it full to the point it was too much for Sparx.

“You sure?” Spyro asked as Sparx slowly got the basket off the ground, heaving it as high as her could.

“Yes! Now you go buy me some time with some shopping and I’ll get things set up.” Sparx groaned. “The things I do for you…” He carried the basket away…right in the nick of time too as just a few minutes after the dragonfly managed to carry the basket out of open view from his position, Spyro spotted the black dragoness approaching.

He smiled as Cynder landed, the two closing the distance as they momentarily embraced each other in a quick nuzzle.

“Hey…so how’d the vote proceedings go?” Spyro asked, doing his best to ignore the possibility Sparx may still be visible. Thankfully, if he was, Cynder made no mention of it.

“Pretty much a clean sweep of what you predicted. Ulris and Rhadal will take up position as Captain and General, Nix won the vote for Regent…but it was a closer vote than we earlier anticipated.” Cynder caught him up to speed, the two turning and walking towards the shops. “Where’s Sparx?” She asked.

“Really? Well- I’d say that’s good…if it was a complete landslide, that would mean the odds of getting competition in the future to said positions will be light. Also, Sparx said he wanted to explore the city some more on his own.” He answered her question, trying to deflect anything else about the dragonfly.

“Did the guardians make any mention of diplomats from the atlawa and manweersmalls?” He asked, the two passing Fitwo’s and in particular the jewelry shop which Spyro did his best to avert his gaze from as they passed- going first to a mole trinket shop he had taken note of before.

“Briefly, they made mention that envoys were coming…potentially Mole-yair and Kane. Prowlus’ wife Maiev planned to come to Warfang to help oversee the talks as to help settle terms between our people and their own. If the talks go well, both will lend their aid to restoring Warfang.” Cynder said as they both pressed into the shop.

Inside it was lined with trinkets and such of various purpose and design. From eyeglasses for moles who had worsened sight, clocks, varying devices…but in particular, Spyro felt his gaze drawn to rows of simple but elaborate toys.

He had no true interest in them of course, but he couldn’t deny that they looked capable of keeping the younger childhood version of himself entertained for many hours. Cynder noted his gaze and gave him a curious brow.

“In the market for toys, Spyro?” She asked with a slight grin, to which he shook his head.

“No…I was just thinking these would have been the envy of any dragonfly children, myself includes, if we had anything like it growing up.” Spyro noted.

“I guess life in the swamp would be far simpler than anything which happens here.” Cynder would study some of the lined up toys as well, made from wood or simple thin metal. In particular, she spotted a tiny mole-sized drum with two strings attached to a pair of wooden spheres- a written piece of parchment labeled ‘Rattle Drums’. She was amused at how such a simple thing could keep the entertainment of a child for long.

Then her mind wandered to how she would have viewed such a thing as a child…had she been given a normal life.

She quickly shook off that thought, not wishing to dampen spending time with Spyro. She knew such things could not be forgotten overnight, it would take years of mental therapy to truly come to terms with her newfound freedom.

With Spyro at her side however, that goal was growing more and more likely with each passing day.

“Yeah…I’m sorry, I thought I’d try my hand at shopping with you but I have to admit, I don’t have an interest in it like Galacion and Eletara.” Spyro said with a sheepish smile. Cynder just leaned in and pecked a kiss on one of his cheeks.

“The fact that you’re just trying to spend time with me is good enough…Galacion told me that shopping doesn’t just mean buying things. It’s just a way to spend time while perusing. I know you’re not used to this kind of thing…but it means a lot that you’re willing to try.” Cynder smiled at the purple dragon. “Would you rather get lunch instead?” She asked.

“That sounds like a good idea, yeah.” Spyro smiled, earning an agreeing look from Cynder as they turned to depart from the tinkering shop. The purple dragon was doing everything he could to stall for time so Sparx could get everything set up in the park before the evening rolled in.

“I think Granite and Emera are meeting in the market for lunch soon, maybe they’ll be open to the idea of company joining them?” Cynder rubbed her chin some as they left the store.

“Maybe, but if they aren’t I’m sure we can still get a quick meal from Fitwo’s.” Spyro said cheerfully.

They passed by a few other shops along the way to Fitwo’s, even passing by the tailor shop Cynder had visited with Galacion and Eletara on their little shop tour they went on before their mission which led them to Magnacia’s settlement.

Soon enough they’d find themselves approaching Fitwo’s restaurant, several dragons from the proceedings at the guardian tower had found their way to the place, including a familiar pair of earth and electricity dragons as well as Galacion sitting together.

Even before Spyro and Cynder began their approach, they could see Granite open one of his massive wings in invitation.

“Spyro! Cynder! Come, join us!” He said in a welcoming tone, the two younger dragons arriving to the table where the others were sat down around.

“We didn’t want to intrude just in case.” Cynder said softly, her eyes finding Granite’s golden ones as they silently recognized each other and what happened at the tower…keeping what they had learned to themselves for now.

“Intrude? Hardly. We were just discussing some thoughts on the vote proceedings before we got here.” Emera smiled, giving a side glance to Granite and receiving one in return before they averted their gazes back to the others.

“Where’s Flame and Ember? Ignius? I would have thought you’d be all too eager to have them join us for lunch.” Spyro noted the lack of the trio of flame dragons.

“After the votes finished, Magnacia asked that they meet her and Terrador in the training district- maybe there’s still an intact dojo they plan to use.” Storm looked up from his fish which he was enjoying with Eletara.

“Yes, she was quite insistent that they meet there. I was half tempted to go and see what they had in the works since they hardly made it private.” Galacion looked up from their meal now. Spyro gave a simple nod, seemingly content with their answer.

“I’m surprised you didn’t go to watch Ignius’ training.” Eletara said with a snicker, earning another icy glare from Galacion.

“Not this again.” Galacion huffed, Eletara smirking in response.

“Ah give it a rest. I say we use this meal to celebrate a job well done, we brought so many dragons to Warfang and now the city’s council is reformed once again. If you ask me, this is a step in the right direction to return things to the way they were before the old war began…or at least, a resemblance of normalcy.” Granite stated cheerfully, though deep down he wondered if he could ever truly know the meaning of normalcy.

“Hear, hear!” Storm agreed, draping a wing over Eletara’s back.

Spyro smiled in response to the prospect, but he was still in a similar position as Granite…he’d never seen what normal looked like for the old dragon kingdom. Time would tell and Spyro would have to take their word for it when the time came…he then remembered his place with the dragons.

Perhaps with some effort on his part, he could help make it a better place than it was before.

Something for another time, he turned his amethyst gaze to Cynder, and she met his with those pretty emerald eyes…smiling back at him.

That gave him some a quick shot of hope. Working alongside Cynder, maybe that was more possible than they all realized. They’d saved the world together after all…they could do a lot when in sync.

Maybe that would be enough.

For now, he was sharing a meal with her and their friends…and that was enough for now.

Hours passed by, Spyro and Cynder had separated from Granite and the others following lunch on their continued journey through the market. They had even taken a detour to the academy district and found a dojo where Magnacia and Terrador were observing Flame, Ember, and Ignius’ training.

It had been impressive to say the least.

Spyro observed the trio fighting the magically infused training dummies, shaped like apes but little more than hay and some wood lined with clothing and armor. Terrador and Magnacia stoically observed the three as they deconstructed the dummies in their own individual ways.

Ember was perhaps the most unique, despite her smaller size than most other female dragons- she was rather good at holding her ground. The pink dragoness was hard to hit, dodging and weaving between the dummies like she was made of fluid, similarly to how Spyro had seen Cynder avoid taking hits in the past. Her strikes and breath attacks weren’t anything out of the norm for a fire dragon though- Spyro and Cynder deciphered that she was less of a fighter than the other two.

Ignius fought in an extremely traditional manner, using his wings to block attacks from the dummies before delivering a powerful counterattack. The old ways Ignitus had called it, when they first met and reclaimed the old temple. He used his mind to fight carefully and efficiently. Strike, block, breath attack, repeat.

Time would tell how alike he and Ignitus were.

Flame was…interesting. He revealed his bruiser build rather quickly. He wasn’t as good at blocking attacks, rather he was adept at simply brushing off attacks before delivering rather harsh counterattacks. However, what caught his attention was when Flame let out his fire breath…it was less like usual fire and more like a brutal inferno every time he let out his inner flames.

What was most fascinating is when Flame took a rather hard-struck hit, and out of anger bellowed out another wave of fire that flickered blue and violet! It burned so hot that the dummies continued to stay lit up far longer than Ember and Ignius’ dummies when lit on fire.

“So that’s his gift from the Year of the Dragon…his fire burns hotter than others.” Cynder said finally, earning a nod from Spyro.

“I wonder if he could manage a full torrent of blue fire.” Spyro wondered aloud. “But it looks like he can only manage it when he gets mad during a fight- see his muscle tension? It usually only happens when tensions rise in a fight…he’ll need to learn how to control it.” Spyro would point out to Cynder.

“Maybe you could help him learn to do so?” Cynder asked, earning a perked brow from Spyro.

“And not whoever becomes the next tutor and mentor to fire dragons?” Spyro asked, earning a serious look from Cynder now.

“Spyro, love, you’re one of the last dragons to train under Ignitus…that means a lot. He was trained in a near bygone way and passed those lessons onto you. Fire was the first element you learned and he helped you learn the old ways of fighting with the dragon vanguard. You may see some humor in it…but I’m dead serious.” Cynder gave him a meaningful look.

“Maybe…let me think about it, maybe I’ll go to the guardians about it as well as Magnacia…perhaps they’d appreciate that.” He said, rubbing his chin now. “For now…looks like they’ll be at this for a while yet…come on, I heard the park is nice this time in the evening before nightfall.”

“The park…alright.” Cynder smiled, turning to leave with Spyro now as the two departed from the overlook in the dojo. The group actively making use of it would still be here for some time before they dismissed Flame, Ember, and Ignius.

Spyro led Cynder through the streets into the park, the black dragoness just silently following along…starting to notice it was as if Spyro was leading her somewhere with a purpose. She’d started to suspect as much as she noted how unlively the park actually was this evening.

And soon enough…she knew why Spyro had been going from one subject to another today.

When they came close to the fountain in the park, she was greeted to the sight of a large blanket rolled out with a wicker basket set up nearby. Sparx was hovering with his arms crossed, a pleased expression adorning his face.

“Surprise…my bleeding-heart romantic brother arranged this…even though I did the heavy lifting. Goodbye and you’re welcome!” Sparx would give a two finger salute before darting off, now finally free of the two of them and leaving them to their own devices…freedom at last for the dragonfly.

“Hah…well…yeah.” Spyro glanced over at her to gauge her reaction.

“Spyro…you didn’t have to do any of this!” Cynder smiled broadly, going over to the blanket now as she studied their position, next to a tree but not concealed beneath it with an open view of the dark blue sky above as the sun slowly crept towards the edge of the horizon as the day turned late.

The basket smelled heavenly…the black dragoness’ stomach rumbled, eager for dinner…but all that was on her mind right now was the purple dragon who gave her a sheepish smile.

“Galacion told me I should take you on a date…she gave me some ideas and…here we are. I’m sorry if it’s not much…I’ve never taken anyone on a date. And…I’ve never had anyone to take on a date.” Spyro rubbed one of his shoulders with a paw, grazing over his scales.

Cynder closed the distance to him, leaning in as she stole a kiss from the purple dragon now, their eyes sealed shut as they embraced one another. Spyro let out a heavy sigh into the kiss, Cynder slowly sliding a paw over Spyro’s fin between his horns. When she pulled away, Spyro was left swooning a little, somewhat kiss drunk as she tilted her head against his some so their eyes continued to meet.

“This is the sweetest thing anyone has ever done for me…which is to say, there’s not been many sweet moments, but this tops them all so far.” Cynder smiled, tracing her claws over his scales so delicately.

“It’s not bad then?” He asked nervously.

“Bad? Spyro, I was never given chances to just do normal things like this. It may seem small to you, but to me it’s the first time anyone’s ever done something just for the sake of surprising me…spending time with me…that’s what I love about you. You think of others before yourself and it shows.” She smiled, finally peeling away as she goes to sit down on the blanket, leaving enough room for him.

He’d go to the basket, lifting it open to retrieve what looked like a small vase, a glass bottle, and two drinking glasses of dragon size. Some forgot that dragons lived noble lives which meant having glasses and cups to drink from similarly to what moles drank from.

“I got water…but Galacion suggested trying wine for once and give an actual drink a try…I’ve never tried it before.” He chuckled.

“Neither have I…pour me some?” She asked, shifting so she was sitting down on her haunches some. The purple dragon would tilt the dark glass bottle down, red liquid filling her glass – only halfway though. Galacion’s notes told him to only pour a little for both the sake of drinking it and in case they didn’t enjoy it.

Cynder took the glass into her claw- such dangerous things which Spyro had seen tear Grublins apart, now so gently hold the glass as she tilted it back to have her first sip of wine.

She seemed to mill over the taste, giving it an approving nod.

“Not bad…not what I’m used to but when all I’ve been limited to is water for so long…I could get used to some variety.” She snickered. Spyro would try some soon after, pouring himself a glass of the red liquid as well. Almost as soon as it met his tongue he recoiled a bit.

“It’s a liquid that…tastes dry? Bleh…” He shook his head as he poured it out behind himself. “Not my thing…I’ll stick to water.” He’d say, getting the small vase of water as he’d pour himself some water from it. He would then reach into the basket and pulled out a pair of items wrapped in cloth. He’d unroll the cloth to reveal a pair of cooked deer steaks.

“Oh wow…it smells delicious!” Cynder smiled.

“Well then…dig in.” He smiles, leaning down to bite into his steak, Cynder doing the same now.

Little did they note, in passing, there were a set of icy blue, golden, and emerald eyes studying the two as they dined together.

“Oooooh, they’re so cute together!” Galacion said in a giddy tone.

“Alright calm down princess, I know you’re still proud about helping Storm and Eletara get together but there’s no need to explode.” Granite let out a chuckle, bapping her with one of his massive wings.

“Hard to believe those two dragons just a couple weeks ago saved the entire world…doing something as simple as going on a date together for the first time…they deserve this.” Emera said with a gentle smile.

“Indeed…they also deserve some privacy…let’s scoot and leave them to it.” Galacion said with a smile as she ushered the others along, doing their best to avoid being seen by Spyro and Cynder as they feasted together, leaving the two young-adult dragons to their date together.

For now, as the sun began to set and the celestial moons began to grow closer to rising, the purple and black dragons simply ate together and enjoyed one another’s company.

Spyro and Cynder simply lay side by side on the blanket, their meal long since finished, glasses empty…they simply sat in silent appreciation of one another’s company. Their tails had managed to find themselves twirled together, his right wing draped over her back. Their eyes studied the expansive sky above as the celestial moons began to light up the ground beneath the sky.

Cynder’s emerald eyes twinkled as she studied the starry sky above them, taking in the breathtaking view of millions of stars shining overhead now. It was one thing to witness a sunrise and sunset in Warfang…but to now actually take in and appreciate the view of the starry night sky, like a black-blue canvas overhead…stunning.

“It’s so pretty…” Cynder said with a soft sigh, Spyro nodding in agreement.

“Almost as pretty as you are.” Spyro said with a cheeky grin as she diverted her gaze to meet his own, a brow rising incredulously.

“Now I know we’ve reached the point of the date Galacion didn’t help with.” She jests, leaning over to give him a quick lick on the cheek. “But thank you…the starry moonlight brings out your handsome face.” She said happily.

“Okay, I see it now…I’m not very good at making compliments that aren’t stupidly corny.” He lets out a little laugh, rubbing the back of his neck.

“No…but I love that too.” She smiles, nuzzling into him, the purple dragon returning the moment of affection…but seeing the stars and then looking at her…it reminded him of something he had almost forgotten.

“Just a moment.” He pulled away, depriving her of his warmth in that moment, leaving the black dragoness to contemplate some things as he started to rummage around in the basket…her mind drifted to what they had learned earlier that day regarding Magnacia agreeing to take on the mantle as fire guardian.

It was eating away at her, to be frank, hiding it from Spyro…she wanted to tell him so badly, to warn him of what was to come soon.

But she found herself hesitating…which she’d come to regret.

When Spyro returned, he set down a wooden box before her, a red bow on it.

“I got you something…as a gift. I’ve never given you anything before and I figure now is as good a time as any.” He smiled, offering her the box now. She stared at it with wide eyes, blinking a little before she glanced back at him.

“S-spyro this is too much…” She’d say, almost as though she’d refuse the gift…her heart was thumping quickly out of glee but also anxiety. She had to tell him…she had to!

“Please, just open it.” He smiled, she’d sigh and meet his request as she slowly opened the box…recognizing the branding from Ders’ shop, she knew she was in for a surprise to be sure.

And she was most certainly surprised!

Inside the box was lined with red velvet- and resting within it was a silver necklace-styled choker, like elegant swirls which were designed to fit around the neck comfortably and not too tight- several studded inlays as well as a central rounded emerald drew all eyes to it. She could hardly believe what she was seeing…glancing back up to Spyro now with an awed look.

“Spyro…you…I-.” Her voice caught in her throat a little.

“You didn’t have a full set yet so I wanted to help you complete it.” He smiled, reaching down to lift it from the box now, to which she darted her gaze from him to the choker-necklace. “May I?”

She just gave him a quick nod, to which he’d lean in slowly to slowly adorn it around her long neck near the crest of her chest below the end of her neck. He’d carefully do his best to accommodate for her, slowly clasping the metal chain and hook which held it in place, letting it snap closed and seal to her- the magic starting to work as the piece of jewelry started to shift in size to fit her perfectly- just like her other pieces she got from Ders.

She glances down at it, sliding one of her delicate claws over the necklace’s emerald inlay now, the jewel shining into her eye and reflecting the color now, before looking back at Spyro. Without another word, the black dragoness threw her forepaws around Spyro, pulling him in to a tight hug, wings closing around his back now as she held him close.

“Thank you…” She said so quietly, just loud enough for him to hear now.

But something was weighing on her...between the lovely date he had just put together for her, the beautiful gift…it was killing her a little inside to hide from him.

No…no hiding this. She’d be honest with him…he should know.

“Spyro…” She said softly, pulling away from him now, he took quick note that her face had turned somber now.

“Cynder? What’s wrong?” He asked softly, resting a paw under her chin to tilt her back towards him.

“Spyro…I need to tell you something…something I heard after the votes ended. It involves Terrador and Magnacia.” Cynder said somberly, Spyro’s brow raising immediately at her shift in tone.

“What is it?” He asked.

The doors of the guardian tower flew open as Spyro stormed past the doors, and sure enough- standing in a circle were the other three guardians and Magnacia stood before them, her head bowed as they draped a cloth over her back. It was a bright crimson-hued red with an orange border and the symbol of fire stitched in orange.

The four older dragons were all startled as the door opened, Spyro storming inside now with Cynder quickly in tow.

“Spyro, I agree you have a right to be mad, but this isn’t the way to handle this!” Cynder tried to make him stop, but the purple dragon wasn’t listening to her at this point.

“Guardians, you all have some explaining to do!” Spyro shouted, causing Terrador to twitch some out of the sheer anger in Spyro’s voice. None of them had ever seen Spyro this way, Cyril and Volteer were a bit out of the loop but upon seeing Spyro here, Terrador and Magnacia knew immediately what had Spyro so furious.

“Spyro, I swear to you we wouldn’t hide this from any of you without good reason!” Terrador tried to slow Spyro down, but he still marched furiously towards them before stopping just feet away from their gathering, Cynder slinking low out of fear of what may happen.

“Now see here young dragon, you may be purple dragon but that does not give you the right to storm in here and act this rashly!” Cyril frowned, but quickly received a tail-swat from Volteer.

“What my pompous ice-brained colleague means to say young Spyro is that while we’re always welcome to have your presence and counsel, there are procedures which must be followed before entering the chamber of the guardians.” Volteer tried to affirm Spyro, taking a gentler approach with the purple dragon.

“Enough, both of you…this is about the ceremony…I knew this wasn’t a good idea.” Magnacia let out a heavy sigh, feeling Spyro’s anger and betrayal in his eyes weigh on her shoulders, Terrador felt it too.

“What right do you have to hide the fact from me that you’re trying to replace Ignitus?!” Spyro barked, causing Cynder to shrink even lower, his tone once again catching Cyril and Volteer by surprise.

“Spyro…you must understand young warrior, the Guardian Order cannot continue to operate without all members present. We had to find a suitable replacement for Ignitus…that was why we had Flame, Ember, and Ignius practicing in the academy district…we were testing Magnacia’s training regime to judge if she could fit the role well enough to temporarily fill in as fire guardian.” Terrador explained, but his explanation seemed to anger Spyro even further.

“So that’s all then? Replace Ignitus just like that? Before his funeral has even happened, you fill the role?!” Spyro shot back, Magnacia’s eyes slamming shut at the mention of her husband.

“This needs to be done young dragon, by our order’s old laws we must fill the role or be disbanded. The world of dragons is in too fragile of a state for us to disband, we’re still needed, when Ignitus left me to take charge of the guardians, there was a chance he knew he wouldn’t return…he knew I’d do my duty and see the guardians whole again.” Terrador tried to remain as calm, trying to not let his emotions get the better of him…but he felt for Spyro.

“But…but no one can replace him! It was Ignitus’ role…he-!” Spyro coughed on his own voice, trying to make the words come out and he just couldn’t seem to manage them.

“This isn’t easy for me either…” Magnacia spoke up now, reopening her eyes to meet Spyro’s own, a single tear rolling down her crimson scales.

“To know that I have been asked to take my husband’s place…before I’ve even gotten to see him be honored for his noble sacrifice. It is killing me to know I’ll never see him again, to know that I’ll forever have to look back and stand where he should be standing now after the end of the war he fought so hard to put a stop to. I…I don’t know if I can do this…I’ll never be worthy to be a guardian, Terrador…” She shuddered out, voice trembling some.

“Spyro…maybe we should…we shouldn’t be so quick to condemn this.” Cynder said softly, trying to ease Spyro’s anger some…she knew what such anger could lead to and this wasn’t the time nor place to explain what happened at the Well of Souls three years ago to the guardians…not yet.

Before Spyro could speak again, the door opened once more as a mole came rushing in.

“By the Ancestors, what now?!” Cyril barked, the mole panting, clearly having run up the stairs of the tower as he held a tiny piece of paper in his hands, to which he offered up towards Terrador as he ran past Spyro and Cynder now.

“M’lords…message from the Bird’s Nest, a falcon came and delivered this message.” The mole panted. Terrador would reach down and pluck the piece of paper from their hand, gesturing to one of the side doors.

“Take water…thank you for bringing this to us.” He said simply, the mole quickly rushing off to do as he had ordered. Meanwhile, Terrador would unfurl the tiny piece of paper, studying it with one eye as all the others in the room waited for him to read off what the note said.

Terrador’s face seemed to drain in color a little as he finished reading…crumpling up the note with concerned eyes.

“Hunter and his party have been captured.” Terrador said in a low, shuddering tone.

Chapter Text

The guardian hall was in utter chaos as dragons and moles alike scrambled inside, along with a contingency of cheetahs arriving to the city in a hurry. Those who weren’t privy were kept from entry by Ulris and the other Warfang Guard members, those who had reason to enter had already done so. The city was in a quiet panic regarding the status of Hunter’s search party, with the main concentration of the chaos happening within the tip of the great tower of Warfang.

Inside the guardian hall, there was an uproar of voices crying about themselves trying to think of solutions. Terrador was just staring down at the map below him intensely, Cyril yelling about the crowd with other dragons like Rhadal, trying to formulate a solution. Others like Volteer were trying to silence the crowd to try and ease things up so cooler heads could prevail.

“Where is Hunter?!” Prowlus growled, slamming a balled fist onto the table before him, other cheetahs arguing among the moles behind him.

“We need to move immediately to save our search party, at once!” Rhadal roared, several dragons behind him crying out in agreement, all eager for battle and to see their comrades rescued from the clutches of the grublins.

Meanwhile, Cyril was butting horns with the newly appointed General.

“What we need to do is formulate a proper stratagem to rescue our people effectively and efficiently from peril without simply rushing headlong into what could be a trap! We don’t know the strength of the grublins at large in the Ancient Grove! We risk losing dragons if we don’t plot out our move, this could get overly bloody, fast!” Cyril growled in return, earning approving voices and nods from other dragons behind him.

“So, you’d have us wait and do nothing while they stay in captivity?!” Rhadal barked back at Cyril, their horns almost touching, angers flaring in their eyes. Their argument kept devolving with similar back and forth comments.

Nix, Tempest, Ler, and others watched trying to garner which side of this argument was gaining traction and which wasn’t…unsure of how to proceed. Nix was completely unprepared for this level of an argument to break out so late in the evening.

“Please! Ease your voices we must have order!” Nix tried, but hardly anyone addressed her in that moment, Volteer and Tempest trying similar attempts to try and end the yelling to no avail.

The younger dragons watched the older adults argue. Granite almost wanted to join in the argument to try and bring reason, but he held back when Emera placed a paw on his shoulder and shook her head. Ignius, Galacion, Flame, Ember, even Storm and Eletara were all indifferent about what to do in the midst of so many arguing dragons in one room.

“Our other party…captured?” Galacion asked, Granite simply nodding in response.

“So it seems…the message was vague apparently, but we can only reason that they were taken by grublins upon reaching the Ancient Grove, the second search location. Hunter wouldn’t send that message if the threat wasn’t serious…if we fly to the rescue, not all of us should go.” Granite straightened his neck, his voice firm.

“What do you want of us? Rhadal will organize the mature dragons, that leaves us.” Emera glanced around their group.

“Let’s see…Ignius, find Typhoon and his bunch…tell them they’re not to join us. I don’t trust their willingness to follow orders. Ember…you should stay here.” The earth dragon directed his gaze to the pink dragoness.

“Stay?” Flame gasped, his eyes conveying concern. “Ember can handle herself!” He hissed.

“No, Granite is right Flame.” Ember interrupted the two drakes before Granite could retort. “You know as well as I that I’m not a fighter Flame…I’ll hold the group back in a fight, with lives on the line it’s too dangerous to have someone like me causing issues.”

“I- if you’re sure, Ember…I won’t lie and say it doesn’t make me feel better that you’re not in harms way at least.” Flame sighed. “Still, it will feel odd to not have you there.”

“I know…but you’ll be fine without me.” She leans her head up to nuzzle his a little.

“As for Typhoon and his bunch, leave them to me…he’ll likely complain, but I’ve been barked at by Typhoon before.” Ignius would turn and wade his way through the crowd.

“The only other concern I have is our group getting there in a swift manner…Storm, are you up for the rapid flight? No breaks but it’s a shorter distance to the grove from Warfang than the swamp.” Granite turned to his best friend.

“I can handle it!” Storm huffed. “I’ll live through the damn flight.” The electricity dragon grumbled.

“He’ll be fine, Granite.” Eletara smiled at the earth drake, draping a wing in a comforting manner over Storm’s back.

Granite then looked at Galacion, simply giving her a nod, which she returned. He knew Galacion was capable of handling everything that was awaiting them in the grove likely.

“As for our group, we follow Rhadal’s orders explicitly…no heroics from any of you. We work as a team and keep each other safe. No one goes off on their own, no rushing off…and if anyone is in trouble, we push to help.” Granite laid out the basics before each of them.

Not too far from the group of young adult dragons Spyro, Cynder, and Sparx resided to themselves amid the chaos within the guardian chambers.

“Spyro?” Cynder tried to get Spyro’s attention, who was seemingly a million miles away…still trying to process everything which had happened…between the reveal of Hunter’s capture, the news that Ignatia was to take up the mantle of fire guardian in Ignitus’ absence…everything was really dragging down the good mood from what was setting out to be a great night after Spyro and Cynder’s first real date.

He glanced over at her for a moment, only making eye contact momentarily, before glancing back down…at a loss for words while trying to make sense of the swirl of confused thoughts colliding in his head.

“Spyro, buddy, they really need you!” Sparx tried as well, giving Cynder a worried glance and an agreeing nod, wings buzzing as he tried to avoid dragons coming and going who didn’t notice him.

“They don’t…” Spyro said glumly, clearly lacking the right words to say. “We stopped Malefor and now things are such a mess. I’m positive there’s not a single thing I could say to amend this entire situation…short of successfully wishing for Hunter and his search party to return.”

“No.” A new voice alerted them. Spyro’s gaze turned to find Magnacia standing over them both, sitting down on her haunches next to the purple and black dragons with the dragonfly.

“They need their heroes now more than ever…they’re lost and don’t know what to do. You two defeated Malefor against all odds and in doing so, your names and presence will always be enough to tip the balance.” Magnacia offered softly, trying to get through to the purple dragon. “Never doubt the power of words supported by past actions.”

“But…they’re just so torn amongst themselves. How are we supposed to change that?” Spyro asked incredulously, his amethyst eyes giving away the fact that he was a bit distraught. Likely he was also still unsure towards Magnacia regarding the earlier matter of fire guardian. “I’m just one me…how am I, Cynder, or Sparx supposed to make so many conflicting voices settle down and listen to reason?” Spyro glanced up at the fire dragoness.

Magnacia thought for several long moments, before clearing her throat.

“Ignitus…for years he hated dealing with dragon politics, saying that the battle of keeping dragons cooperative was a greater challenge than almost any true battle. Even keeping true order with the guardians was often a battle he’d sometimes fight alone…but still, even when he doubted himself…I’d tell him that despite the odds, he was enough to keep things in line because of the respect he commanded as leader of the guardians…and now without him here, they lack that anchor.” Her ruby eyes looked directly into Spyro’s now, then to Cynder’s emeralds.

“Be that anchor.” She said simply. “They need that tethering force now more than ever in the face of renewed crisis.” Magnacia added, moving to walk back towards the head of the room…but not before Spyro could say something. “We didn’t have that for the entire duration of the old war before your egg came along Spyro, only the guardians held the dragon kingdom together for so long…that cannot repeat. With the council reforged and the guardians battered and rekindled…you’re more vital than ever.”

Spyro was silent for a long moment, Magnacia convinced he was still too distracted to truly voice his thoughts, preparing to turn away and return to her spot at the table of arguing mature dragons.

But Spyro spoke finally.

“Magnacia…” Spyro addressed her quietly, just loudly enough so she could hear him over the arguments ringing overhead of them all. She turned to meet his gaze one more time.

“I…I’m sorry I just-.” He choked on his own words, not truly knowing what he intended to say…but then a look of determination filled those amethyst eyes, a look which Cynder and Sparx were all too familiar with. It usually meant Spyro was feeling both inspired and determined.

He’d had an idea…whether or not it would work was yet to be seen, but for the first time since Cynder had given him the news of Ignitus’ replacement as fire guardian, he was able to think up an idea more clearly.

“Follow my lead!” He said abruptly, pushing through the crowd and towards the meeting table where the most dragons, cheetahs, and moles were assembled and arguing.

Sparx was utterly confused what he meant by following his lead, but he glanced back at Cynder and saw a confident grin spread across her muzzle.

‘Hoo boy this should be good.’ The dragonfly thought to himself…Spyro’s ideas were usually spur of the moment and ill advised.

Usually.

Other times Spyro’s ideas were actually good.

‘Let’s hope this is one of those times.’ Sparx clasped his tiny hands together.

Spyro went to the head of the table, bracing his forepaws on the edge as he seemed to close his eyes as if in deep concentration…his muscles tensed, his jaw locked for a moment.

And in a moment that stunned everyone in the room into silence for the first time since the arguments had broken out, Spyro roared.

Not just a cry or demand with his voice- something dragons only did in moments of battle and blood rush, letting out their truly bestial roar that reminded everyone that dragons still had some animal-like tendencies even in their sophisticated society. Cynder, Sparx, and everyone who knew him had never heard Spyro let out such a roar, but it shook her for a moment as for someone so soft-spoken like Spyro to roar so aggressively caught her off guard completely!

But his attempt had garnered the results they needed. Everyone in the room fell deathly silent, all eyes on the purple dragon who had been the source of the bestial roar. Spyro shook for a moment of anxiety struck him, but he shook it off and cleared his throat.

“We can continue to sit here and argue, but really we need to listen to our guardians and what they’d advise us to do…starting with the new fire guardian Magnacia, your newly appointed Regent Nix, and Terrador.” He uttered, though Cynder could hear his voice begin to hitch near the end. Magnacia meanwhile looked completely blindsided, being put in the spotlight now too. “While argue amongst ourselves, the second search party and Hunter are still held in captivity and we’re wasting precious time we could be using to devise a plan to save them!”

“Hear, hear!” Prowlus growled, thankful for the purple dragon’s interruption. “If you lot can’t keep your heads cool then let others do so!” The chief grumbled, folding his arms. Maiev and Meadow on his flanks, nodding in agreement with him.

“Spyro is right…this is exactly what whoever took Hunter and his search party likely want…to have us divide and do their job for them while giving them more time…I’m not a master strategist, but you have several here who can formulate some kind of plan.” Cynder moved to his side, showing her support to her purple dragon.

‘My purple dragon? Am I already that possessive?’ She silently cursed herself. Deep down she loved the notion of being so close with Spyro.

Eyes were now on Magnacia, Terrador, and Nix. Magnacia was almost mad at Spyro for putting her in the spotlight, but she knew what he was doing…trying to be their anchor and point them to those who could formulate a true plan. She only had seconds to make up a plan…but with Terrador and Nix helping keep them grounded…this could work.

“They speak true…and as the new fire guardian in the interim…I believe we need to send a light strike force capable of moving through the grove, but not so numerous that we make traversing it near impossible.” Magnacia would approach the meeting table, observing the laid-out map like Terrador had been doing. “A force which can fend off the grublins but move with a sense of agility.”

“Agreed.” Terrador finally spoke, looking up from the map. “A party led by General Rhadal, our young dragons from the search party, a few dragons from the guard along with defenders of Magnacia’s settlement, and two of the guardians. Meanwhile the new Captain of the Guard Ulris, the rest of the guardians, and Nix will ensure that while we’re gone the city is in a presentable state for the diplomats on the way from the Manweersmalls and the Atlawa…to ensure we don’t look to be in a state of panic.” Terrador finished, looking to Nix. “As our new Regent, you need to receive them and broker some sort of alliance with them as we have with the cheetahs and moles.”

Nix took a deep breath, now it was her turn to impress as their new Regent of the city…her first day on the job and she was thrust into an awkward position by the sudden news of Hunter’s capture.

“True, Terrador, that is now my job…to help lead this council and handle the political issues facing our city while the General handles the martial affairs. To all of you who aren’t selected to join General Rhadal’s force, you’re to return to your homes and let them handle this situation.” Nix finished with a deep breath, earning approving nods and voices from the dragons in the room.

Spyro didn’t take full note, but Granite, Galacion, and their other friends were giving him and Cynder approving looks.

“I shall go with Rhadal’s party.” Terrador said plainly, but Cyril shook his head.

“No Terrador old friend, it should be myself and Magnacia who venture with Rhadal’s party. My presence with the proceedings could put diplomacy at risk due to my…opinions…regarding the Atlawa and manweersmalls. As well, you are our leader and should be here to greet our guests with Volteer.” Cyril interjected.

“I-.” Terrador began but was immediately interrupted by Volteer.

“He’s right, Terrador, much as Cyril and I may bicker on matters such as this, we are in agreement that we need you here while our colleagues follow Rhadal so he may do his job.” Volteer supported Cyril in turn, some light surprise from Cyril for the electricity guardian actually agreeing with him for once.

“…very well.” Terrador relented. “That a warrior should be chained to politics. Truly Ignitus had some sense of humor even when making such important decisions.” He relented, sitting back down before the meeting table.

“Very well then…Magnacia, Cyril, help me put together a small force of fighting-capable dragons. Spyro, Cynder, and the rest of you young dragons with our approval- get ready for a fight and assemble at the foot of the tower. Chief Prowlus, I suggest you and your warriors join us…and be ready to join us for the flight.” Rhadal would say, turning to leave.

“I’m sorry…” Prowlus said, but Rhadal didn’t stop walking. “…join you…flight?” Prowlus gulped, almost feeling as though he’d ceased to function in that instant at the notion of taking flight with the party.

“This is a terrible idea!” Prowlus moaned sadly as he took to the back of Rhadal along with Meadow. Several of the other adult dragons were doing the same with the adult sized dragons as they were now armoring up and preparing for a battle…the grumbling cheetahs were also dressed for a fight in their leather gear lined with metal studs with a few chain-linked sections all armed with longbows and their spears. Bar Prowlus who had his shortsword hooked onto his hip.

“We have no choice, Chief, we’ve got a strong force of dragons assembled here but if you cheetahs and the mole soldiers we’re bringing want to be useful, then you need to be there with us.” Granite explained, adorned in dark reflective armor lining his earthy-green scales.

“You lot need to ease up! The moles aren’t complaining, trust in the dragons, they’re masters of the sky.” Meadow sighed as he relaxed with his arms crossed behind his back, even though he and all the other present cheetahs were adorned in their armor.

Maiev couldn’t help but laugh as she looked up at the two cheetahs atop Rhadal, Meadow who was reclined and Prowlus who was clinging to the earth dragon like a child.

“Oh, how I wish I could go to experience flight like a dragon…and witness my husband freak out along the entire way…but I’m needed here to help Nix and Terrador prepare to greet their expected visitors coming to Warfang. If there’s to be an alliance, we’ll be apart of it.” Maiev smiled, reaching up to clasp one of Prowlus’ hands, who squeezed hers in return, giving her a steely nod.

Meanwhile, the younger dragons were preparing for battle in their own way.

“You’ve got this, stretch the wings, deep breaths.” Eletara placed her paws on Storm’s shoulders, helping him prepare for the spurred flight ahead.

“Ancestors this is going to hurt once we land.” Storm grimaced.

“I know, love, but you’ll power through it. Once we do, we’re going to ask Terrador and Volteer about flight conditioning training for you.” Eletara smiled, tugging one of the laces holding his metal pauldron over his scaled shoulder which connected it to his underbelly and back armor.

“Be safe Flame.” Ember smiled, leaning in to nuzzle him a little bit with a shy sigh.

“I will, and you be ready for the biggest hug ever when I get back.” Flame responded, his silvery-tinted armor flickering and clicking together some. The armor wasn’t a full-on set which protected the entire body, protective of the vital spots of their bodies. Everyone present was outfitted with similar equipment to his own, maximizing protection combined with mobility. The older dragons were actively being outfitted by the moles with heavier steel plating with a quilted under layer and chainmail, even with some strapped plates going down the tail.

Rhadal himself was clad from the base of his wings to his forepaws clad in plated armor which hid much of his dulled green scales.

“You’re good to go.” Emera said as she finished tightening the leather straps for Granite’s light shoulder plates, slapping them both with her forepaws.

“And so are you…in prime grublin killing mode.” Granite grinned toothily.

Galacion was silently cursing herself as she was trying to fasten her torso plates together with the metal clamps which would hold it to her torso, her wings anchored into the slots the armor had designed to fit around them.

“Damn this armor…!” She growled, but soon felt the warmth of someone else approach her flank.

“Here, let me get that for you.” She heard Ignius speak, her breath hitching a little as she felt his paws reach forward and secure the metal clamp which sealed the plates together. She felt her cheek-scales flush some, trying to hide it as it would definitely show on her bright blue hue.

He’d come around, adorned in his golden colored armor as he reaches forward to give the torso armor a tug to ensure it was fastened securely.

“You’re good to go.” Ignius smiled but felt his own breath hitch as their eyes met. Icy blues mingling with fiery scarlet eyes, the two going stiff as they couldn’t seem to move.

“I…uhhh…” Ignius couldn’t really find the words, his heart thumping rapidly against his plated chest. Galacion frowned a little, feeling awkward as well before she was just about to ask for him to excuse her.

“I should-.” She started.

“Do you want to get dinner with me after we get back from this?” He asked suddenly, cutting her off.

They were both frozen again, Ignius because he mentally recoiled from asking so abruptly, and Galacion for the prospect of the question.

“I’m sorry…that was so out of nowhere.” Ignius sighed after several long moments of stiff silence between the two young dragons, but before he could finish smiling, a small smile finally crept along her muzzle.

“…actually, yes. Yes, that sounds nice.” Galacion said softly, her eyes darting back and forth to ensure they weren’t being eavesdropped on. Ignius’ eyes went wide, half expecting her to walk away without a word. “But only after we get back of course…best do well to ensure you do.” She says with a slight smile, finally side-stepping and approaching Granite.

“Yeah…of course!” He called to her, a nervous chuckle escaping him now. After a few moments of living the excitement down, a thought crossed his mind and he glanced around, looking for someone.

His joy was replaced by irritation as he remembered his past argument with Typhoon and his comrades, their argument and complaining...ending with Typhoon saying he'd remember this when they actually needed his help.

‘Just you wait Typhoon…you’ll get your helping of karma one day.’ He grumbled, spotting his mother as she was allowing a few mole attendants to secure her armor along with Cyril, now going to her as Galacion departed for her own group of friends.

Spyro, Sparx, and Cynder were all grouped up on their own…with Cynder giving Spyro a tight hug as they finished securing their armor. She was adorned in bright silvery-hued armor, and he was dressed in bronze colored plating.

“I’m proud of you.” She said with a happy sigh, nuzzling into him some. “I know Magnacia taking over as fire guardian is going to be hard for you, but I’m glad you gave her a chance for her to assert some authority, and you helped keep the peace.” She spoke softly to him.

“I know that I can never move on from Ignitus holding the role, but…saving Hunter is more important than my reservations. It’s raw but…I’ll learn to accept that the role needs to be filled.” Spyro said quickly in return.

“Big red would want us to move on I think, I think Magnacia will do good at the job.” Sparx voiced his own opinion now. “So, what’s the plan for saving the cool cat and his not-so-merry bunch.”

Spyro and Cynder parted, the purple dragon giving his brother a hesitant look.

“I’m not sure…Rhadal, Magnacia, and Cyril will be running the show on this one. We don’t know what to expect in the grove, but we aren’t leaving without Hunter and his search party.” Spyro explained to the dragonfly.

“So, a step above your doomed plans if you ask me.” Sparx grinned, earning a tail swat from Cynder. Spyro just laughed a little as he watched the dragonfly recover, his smile coming back made Cynder happy…she knew deep down he was still going through a lot…it would take time, but she was going to make he got through it in one piece.

“Spyro…we need to discuss something…whoever is leading the grublins. Everything we saw during the last days of the war tells me that the grublins aren’t coordinated enough to pull off an ambush or capture on someone like Hunter. We need to face facts…a third party is leading them.” Cynder said quietly, making sure no one was eavesdropping on them.

“I thought of that too.” Spyro muttered. “No way the grublins organize enough…and why take Hunter and his party alive? Awful as it is to say, it makes no sense why they’d capture them…not just kill them. Unless someone is leading them and wants to draw us there…Hunter is bait.” Spyro shuddered at the notion. “You don’t think he survived…do you?”

“No.” Cynder said sharply. “I don’t care how powerful Malefor was…no dragon could survive that much convexity right through the chest. This has to be someone else…I have theories but I won’t make guesses.” Cynder glanced around.

“You mean there are other crazies in the world who could organize the grublins?” Sparx asked with an incredulous look.

“I never met them…but it wasn’t just apes that followed Malefor at the beginning of the old war.” Cynder said quietly, Spyro’s eyes widening.

“Dragons fled to Malefor’s side?” He asked disbelievingly. “And you never met them when you were forced to serve the Dark Master?”

“You know I thought everyone else you two fought was crazy…but dragons who would go to the big bad’s side? That just sounds bad for your health in every way. Also, who enjoys being a bad guy? Nobody wants you to succeed…succeeding means everyone dies! Why can’t the crazies just…I dunno…find a hobby? Something that involves less world destruction.” Sparx sighed, shoulders slumping some.

“Not many…like I said, three of them…I only knew one by name, but I thought he was dead like the other two. Gaul once told me Malefore had told him in visions that he never afforded a challenger and deposed of the three who ended up joining his side. Maybe he was lied to…maybe one of them did live…and are taking a gamble on the grublins with Malefor gone.” She sighed. “I should have told you all of this but I never knew it would ever be relevant...”

“No, you’re alright…like you said this is something you never thought would come up. We both thought everything would end with Malefor…it’s on us to fix this, regardless of who is leading the grublins.” Spyro smiled, reassuring Cynder with a paw on her plate-clad shoulder. She smiled back at him gratefully, comforted by his trust in her.

“I do want to hear more about this once we get back however…dragons who sided with Malefor despite everything he was doing back then…that’s a lot to unpack.” Spyro’s gaze hardened a bit, to which she nodded understandingly.

“That’s fair, I don’t know everything, but it was significant…the first dragons to side with Malefor against the old dragon kingdom.” Cynder said mournfully. “By their own will I should add…my case was against my will in every way.”

“That’s the part which concerns me more…do the guardians know about this?” Spyro asked, glancing back at Cyril and even to Magnacia, she wasn’t the guardian at the time of Malefor’s betrayal, but she was around for the affair.

“Likely...they were in positions of leadership at the time or at the very least apprentices at the time…no way they didn’t know about dragons who chose to flee to Malefor’s side.” Cynder gave a simple nod, wings stretching some as she glances back and meets his eyes. “Listen…no matter what, we get Hunter out in once piece?”

“Of course…he’s our friend and we’re not leaving the grove without him with us as well as the search party. We’ll bring him home and make sure they get back to Avalar.” Spyro affirms a new sense of confidence taking hold. “No excuses, we’re bringing our friend home.”

Cynder smiled…she knew this side of Spyro well. The same determination in those bright amethyst eyes…in his own defense he was defiant but in the defense of those he loved he was most devoted…a trait she adored about the purple dragon. His desire to see all his friends and those he called family safe by any means.

For a moment, that same determination alleviated her concerns for a little longer. Just something to hold onto before they went into battle to save the search party.

“Spyro.” A voice called out, the trio turning their gazes to spot Magnacia as she pushed her way to them, hovering over the two smaller dragons and dragonfly.

“Magnacia…do you need something?” Cynder asked, offering the newly appointed fire guardian a smile. Spyro offered a meek smile…Sparx was just lucky none of them seemed to notice the stiff glance he gave while trying to avoid commenting on the awkward situation.

“I just…wanted to thank you.” She said quickly. “Perhaps I should have taken charge sooner and try to assert myself into the situation in the guardian chambers…but I know for a fact that my words carried far more weight in that moment because you enabled them to be so. Had the purple dragon not stepped in to point everyone to those ready to plan and coordinate our response…likely we’d still be stuck in the guardian chambers. If you hadn’t noticed…adult dragons like to argue. It was smart thinking and it gave me a chance to show them that I can do this job.” Magnacia’s voice was a bit scratchy, likely from the amount of arguing that went on in the chambers.

“Thank you, ma’am…I just know that my voice carries weight, and they need to know the guardians are ready to help lead the reformed council’s responses to threats.” Spyro affirmed, his smile fading a little. “They’ve heard Terrador, Cyril, and especially Volteer talk plenty…they needed new voices to listen to.” He laughs a little, quickly stifling his chuckle.

“Well, if there’s one thing Volteer he does, it’s talk…” Sparx mutters.

Magnacia smiled.

“I remember on the night of my wedding to Ignitus…the war was in full swing and some considered our union too abrupt. Some of our peers came to the wedding to voice their concerns.” Magnacia mused.

“It must have been a lovely night.” Cynder smiled at the elder fire dragoness, who gave her a thoughtful look.

“It was…second only to the night Ignius’ egg hatched.” She sighed happily. “Even if we were at war…he was still around.”

“And how did Volteer play into this story?” Spyro asked.

“Oh! Well, we had him serve as the greeter for the wedding ceremony…the dragons who served alongside us who came to voice their protests to its timing never made it past Volteer…they left the proceedings well before the main ceremony.” She couldn’t help but girlishly giggle, Cynder giving a similar one in return.

“That sounds like him.” Sparx couldn’t help but chuckle at the mental image of Volteer talking other stuffy old dragons’ heads off.

“Yeah…it does. And it’s something I can see Ignitus doing…having Volteer of all dragons serving as the greeter.” Spyro laughed a little, but his laugh was more filled with underlying sadness…he tried to hide it but Cynder and Sparx both could see he was still hurting.

“It was a wonderful day…one of the last happy days we shared during the war. Truly happy I should say…it raged for a long time after and didn’t allow for much happiness.” Magnacia remembered the day of their wedding, stifling the need to shed tears at the memory.

Spyro was silent for a moment…imagining Ignitus and Magnacia’s wedding…he even pictured a scenario with him in a wedding. He fought back a blush from happening at the notion of sharing a wedding with Cynder.

‘No! No…focus Spyro! Our relationship is still only close to two weeks old…ancestors that’s an unhealthy thing to be doing with a crisis occurring.’ Spyro shook his head, reaching up to ensure his armor plates were secured to his scales.

“Everyone, listen up!” Rhadal bellowed, all eyes immediately going to the older earth dragon as he stood with his riders upon his armored back, still clinging for dear life for now as the cheetahs were ill prepared for a flight. “Now we only know that Hunter and his search party have apparently been captured, but we don’t know the actual situation in the Ancient Grove…we don’t know how many grublins there will be or how they organized themselves enough to plan such an ambush.” He took a deep breath before continuing.

“For now, we have a rudimentary plan in place for dealing with the situation systematically. First once we arrive, the younger dragons of this strike force and the cheetahs will push into the grove while the older dragons hang back and await a signal to join in…going into the grove, I entrust leadership to Spyro for the first group.” Rhadal finished.

That caught Spyro off guard, eyes narrowing.

“I’m leading our group?” He asked, glancing at Granite who just gave the purple dragon a shrug. Granite just shrugged; he wasn’t offended at the notion of Spyro taking charge of their group…he knew the purple dragon was more than capable of being a leader.

“Indeed, young dragon, you and your dragonfly brother are the only ones here who have been to the grove in the past. What I know is that the Ancient Grove is a dangerous place with poisonous lakes and mysterious beasts…best we send someone with experience of such a place ahead of lumbering dragons who will only cause noise.” Rhadal explained firmly, the other dragons nodding in agreement with him.

“As well, we need your party to scout out the grublins which are occupying the grove…again, best to send a smaller group who can get eyes on the situation before we strike and move to secure Hunter’s search party.” Rhadal added, hearing Prowlus clear his throat from atop his back.

“I trust the purple dragon’s leadership…I didn’t give him or Cynder the benefit of the doubt during the war and it nearly cost my people dearly. My people will follow them into the fire, especially while our own people are being held prisoner by those monsters.” The chieftain growled, securing his grip to Rhadal’s back.

Spyro’s gaze turned to Sparx and Cynder, a brow piquing.

“We’ve been there once…been a while since we were there, those moths were tasty…so long as you don’t go passing out on me again in the middle of the creepy dark forest, I’m good.” Sparx gave Spyro a simple nod.

“I’ll be right there beside you…we can do this. Remember, for Hunter. He put his faith in both of us at great cost to his own life during the war, we have to pay that faith in us back.” Cynder gave him a firm nod, smiling wryly as he let it sink in.

A vote of confidence from Cynder, Sparx, Rhadal, and Granite…that was plenty of incentive.

“Very well…I’ll do my best. Going through the grove, there’s not a lot of big openings…I imagine that if the grublins are consolidated in one spot and are holding Hunter’s party, then it will be one of the few open spots in the entire forest. Do we have a way of signaling your group if we find them before we’re discovered, Rhadal?” Spyro asked, the old earth dragon giving a firm nod.

“Indeed, we do.” Rhadal nodded, gesturing to a mole attendant with a cylindrical object in his grasp. The mole would offer the object to Spyro, who observed it carefully. It was a long, paper tube wrapped in a red film with a string on one end. “A mole signal firework…ignite the fuse and aim it to the sky, it will light up the air and we’ll be able to find you lot in a moment’s notice.” Rhadal affirmed.

“Then I see no reason for us to delay.” Spyro smiled finally, his addictive grin causing Cynder to break out into a smile as well.

“Then let us be off…make ready for flight!” Rhadal bellowed out in his deep, gravelly voice. His wings extended to a massive degree, Magnacia and Cyril doing the same before all the dragons in their party were in takeoff stances.

“Fly now to the grove! We fly swiftly and efficiently…let’s go and bring the other search party home!” Rhadal roared, and in an instant the party of young adult and mature dragons took to the air with a gust of air from collective flapping of wings.

Soon all that could be heard was the terrified ramblings of the cheetahs who already wished the flight over…all except Meadow.

Chapter Text

The night was calm on the White Isle…actually, it was always night here. Ignitus had begun to remark about how the sun never seemed to shine within his new sanctuary of tomes and books which he was charged to oversee. He was actively studying one of the old annals of the dragons, reminiscing some on the events which had led him here.

‘I need to stop doing this to myself.’ He thought to himself, shaking his head. ‘That part of my life is over, I’m the Chronicler now…best start acting like it.’

It had already felt like a lifetime since the events in Malefor’s throneroom…as if he had aged an additional three-hundred years in just a matter of two weeks. The seclusion didn’t really help…he was constantly aware of the events going on in the world, but it was like he was always looking at it through a lens…a spyglass from afar.

It pained him, watching his own son and wife in such a way…he so wanted to see them both again.

‘Maybe someday when the battle of fate needs their attention…but I am still bound to the rules of my station.’ He huffed, closing the book in that instant, his frustrations rising.

He knew this position was an honor to any dragon to be appointed, but the burdens seemed to already be stacking against him as he transitioned into the role as Chronicler.

The sound of a book falling to the ground alerted him, glancing over and spotting three books which had fallen in a tumble, disturbing dust on the ground…he needed to do some cleaning soon.

Still, it was rather strange for the books to just fall, they weren’t hanging from the bookshelves…and nothing happened on the White Isle without a purpose…he remembered that fact. The very lair of the Chronicler shifted and took shape to his whims unless fate was demanding his attention. The former fire guardian set the book in his paws aside and out of the way as he went to the fallen books…at first he reached down with the intention of returning them to their designated spot on the shelves.

But his motion ceased the instant he realized which books they were.

The first he knew in his heart was the great book of prophecy, a golden book with ivory inlays and a metal lock which kept it sealed…the memories of the past Chroniclers before him flooded his mind, the book was never to be opened except when it demanded to be opened…and only so often did the book make itself known. The next two books were unmistakable…one was dark black with red lining and strange runes, the other was purple with golden linings.

‘Spyro and Cynder’s books…ancestors what’s about to happen?’ He wondered quickly, gathering up each book before gathering them on the reading pedestal – it had a magical ability to grow and shrink as needed with how much reading material was presented. He placed each book on the table and it extended in width to accommodate for the books.

He first opened the Book of Fate, it was too important to understand why the book was ready to be read once again. It flew open, pages flying by his very eyes until it finally reached the newest page…fire flew over the page before words began to take shape on the paper before him.

He began to read with bated breath, feeling his throat go a bit dry at such a pivotal change.

“A world broken and mended, for the purple dragon’s power was extended. Malefor defeated in a terrible clash, but even now worlds will meet and crash. The first purple dragon saw into the deep dark and sought to destroy and avoid…for he saw what pierced past the void. Now a new servant to the dark power shall rise…and should the heroes fail, all will face demise.” Ignitus finished the page, already he felt a shudder crawl over his pale scales.

“…Adimere.” Ignitus muttered…before he could even finish saying their name, both Spyro and Cynder’s books both flew open, pages flying and flipping rapidly until they landed on their newest pages.

He first looked to Spyro’s page…a troubling image in an almost prophetic type of art which depicted Spyro appearing to be in pain with a dark shadow looming over him…white eyes and black scales.

‘The cruel side of Spyro will haunt him in the dark times ahead…I had hoped he’d never have to fear that side of him coming to light again…it shall not be so. He will have to brave the darkest part of his very being which will seek to escape.’ Ignitus depicted, tracing a claw over Spyro’s image.

He missed Spyro so, having grown so close to the young purple dragon before the final days of the war…and he knew Spyro missed him…but he knew so long as Cynder was by his side, the young purple dragon could do anything.

His gaze then turned to Cynder’s book…the image depicted in their new page disturbed him ever so slightly more than even the one in Spyro’s book.

There were two sides to the image, one was a bright yellow backdrop with Cynder as she could be, a healthier look to her former self as the Terror, filled out and happy. On the other side was a nearly entirely black backdrop with a white outline of the black dragoness contrasting…skinny and twisted with those corrupted eyes she once possessed when she was the Terror of the Skies.

‘Cynder will face her old self…she has run from her past and tried to put it behind her, but to prevent the collapse of this new age she will need to face her past…overcome it.’ Ignitus frowned…he hoped to the Ancestors that she’d have the strength and fortitude to achieve such a thing.

These were their challenges that would test their ability to protect the world…the battle on the field would not be what stopped them. The battle of their spirit and mind would be the greater adversary.

The pages in both books flipped again…and both took on the same image. A dark figure with blue lines etched into their scales, Spyro and Cynder on both sides unleashing elemental power on the figure of Adimere…but two piercing white eyes overlooking the battle.

‘He is watching…waiting for an opportunity.’ Ignitus frowned.

His thoughts were interrupted once more as the entire White Isle shook with the bell tolling from the great clock in the center of the room surrounding the hourglass.

The clock didn’t strike at a particular hour, but it did strike when a major event was about to take place, ringing so the acting Chronicler knew what time to mark the event down.

Ignitus knew he’d likely witness the tolling of the clock…but not so soon after his appointment to Chronicler. He quickly waved a hand and a fourth book would come and lay itself down before him…preparing to write down his observations…the Book of the Chronicler, writing down in detail the events occurring when the clock struck three times.

‘Very well…let it begin.’ Ignitus sighed, shrugging off his doubts. He had work to do and it would not be so simple to shrug off his duties…the one solace he found in his duty right now was that when the bell struck, he would find a moment to aid those he cared about in some way…when the time was right.

Prowlus shuddered as he finally set down onto the ground once again, clutching his sword in hand.

“If I never fly again, it will be too soon…Cheetahs are not made for flying.” The chieftain grumbled, most of his fellow cheetahs moaning in agreement…all except Meadow.

“You complain too much…that was rather invigorating.” Meadow laughed a little, clutching his spear before stowing it on his back in favor for his longbow.

“I’m thankful for my armor, Prowlus, likely I’d have bloody gashes in my scales from how tightly you were clutching to my neck.” Rhadal huffed, earning a scornful glare from the chieftain.

“So…we’re going…in there?” Storm asked, scanning over the edge of the Ancient Grove, the mangled and jagged looking trees and foliage. Pools of toxic water creating an ominous aura within the deeper reaches of the grove, the sounds of beasts and various buzzing bugs.

“You know, aside from our run in with those mangy skavengers, this place wasn’t the worst we ever visited…good grub to be found, a bit creepy but win some lose some.” Sparx tried to lighten up the mood, surprisingly it actually worked to a modest degree. Usually his banter was met with bitter distain from Cynder who saw it as childish…but in a moment like this, it mattered to keep morale up.

“Have to wonder why the grublins would come here of all places…I mean, disorganized as they might be they’re not stupid.” Flame rubbed his chin with one of his paws.

“Well, actually, the only reason we sent Hunter and his search party here was because we heard reports of dragon activity in this region. We believe the grublins are just an effect of the cause…but we can’t worry about that right now.” Galacion commented, approaching the tree line as she made her observations.

“Likely too much to hope for a lost dragon colony to be hidden here, even though this place’s location would give them a natural deterrent…but as Galacion said, there’s no time to worry about it.” Eletara nestled close to Storm for a moment, ensuring he was stable after the rapid flight to reach the grove.

“Focus up, our group is going in first with the cheetahs to get some idea regarding the grublin numbers, and if possible, find the search party. Once we do, we don’t get dragged into a prolonged fight on our own without the rest of the fighters. We have our signal rockets, right?” Granite asked, glancing over at Ignius who was going through the contents of his satchel.

“Yes, we’ll be ready to call on my mother and the rest of their group at a moment’s notice.” Ignius gave an affirming nod.

“Good, then we’re ready to set off as soon as Magnacia, Cyril, and Rhadal give us the all-clear.”  Granite grunted, turning to Spyro and Cynder. “Spyro, you’ll lead our group into the grove, you’ve been here before and I’d rather have someone with experience leading the way.”

“Hey! We were both there!” Sparx scowled. “Remember that all the danger Spyro faced, I also faced it! Just…from a safe distance behind the nearest rock.”

Cynder just rolled her eyes before turning her gaze to Spyro, who seemed to be milling over his thoughts.

“Alright…I’ll do my best to guide our group through the grove as best I can.” Spyro said with an affirmative tone. “Regardless of what, or who, we find in there…we bring Hunter and the search party. No matter what, we’re ensuring that they come home, safe and sound.”

“I’m still wondering who could organize creatures as disorderly as the grublins…only one who can talk a good game and promise our utter destruction could manage such a feat following the absence of Malefor…and in such short time at that. We’re just about to cross into the third week since Malefor’s defeat.” Storm rubbed his scaled chin, trying to hide the fact he was breathing rather heavily from the flight.

“I’m wondering much the same…from everything we know about the grublins and our limited contact we’ve attempted…they only seem to care about our destruction. Where the apes had some sense of intelligence and choice to how they went about their actions…the grublins were created to be discarded after their original purpose. We were hoping they would just be more of an annoyance going forward with Malefor’s power vacuum…seems rather convenient. Someone is playing at their own agenda.” Granite huffed; he didn’t like a fight he couldn’t win in a single glorious fight…this would take time to mitigate.

“I agree…but making guesses will get people hurt right now. We deal with the grublins and whoever is leading them as we go…Rhadal, when should we get moving?” Spyro asked, turning his gaze to the older earth dragon. Rhadal turned his entire body to address Spyro now, plated armor clanking together.

“Soon…as soon as Prowlus and his cheetahs are prepared to follow. Just give us the word and we’ll make ready to be on standby when the signal is given.” The General responded, nodding firmly before he returned to the various fighters and members of the guard who came with their group.

Cyril and Magnacia would approach the group of young dragons now.

“Spyro dear boy do be good and leave some grublins for us, would you? I’d hate for you to show us up once again so soon following Malefor’s defeat.” Cyril jested, and for once causing a smile to show on Spyro’s snout. He usually tuned Cyril’s pompous ramblings, but he knew the ice dragon meant well.

“We’ll leave you some.” Galacion interjected from the side, smiling up at her father, who gave her one in return.

“That’s my girl…give those beasts hell.” Cyril said proudly, beaming at his daughter.

“Be careful in there, Ignius.” Magnacia turned her attention to her son, who sighed.

“Mother I’ll be fine, we’re ready for this!” Ignius moaned, trying to shrug off her worries. Flame went to Ignius’ side with a goofy grin.

“I’ll watch his back ma’am…maybe show him how to make real fire.” Flame challenged, earning an incredulous look from the son of Ignitus.

“You show me how to make real fire…right. Keep dreaming Flame…you may have your fancy tricks, but training and practice makes perfect.” Ignius met that challenge from Flame, the two almost butting horns.

“We’ll see…keep count?” Flame asks, Ignius just nodding in return.

“Of course…we’ll tally when we reconvene after Hunter’s party is rescued.” Ignius smiled. “May the better drake win.”

“Oh…I will.” Flame replies with a chuckle, earning an evil glare from Ignius.

“Males…” Magnacia couldn’t suppress a chuckle, turning her attention to the other young dragons. She worried for them, deep down she truly did, but despite her maternal instincts telling her to ensure they would be fine…they had to think she had confidence in them, which she did. But reminding them to be careful would likely be less helpful than beneficial.

Spyro, meanwhile, turned his gaze to Sparx while Cynder was mentally preparing herself.

“Sparx…I’ve been meaning to bring something up. It can wait for when we get back to Warfang, but don’t let forget…it’s important, regarding home at the swamp.” Spyro finished, tightening the straps of his shoulder plate once again, the dragonfly raising a brow.

“The swamp? Sure bro…I’ll poke you about it once we get back to the city…ooh! Glow moths!” Sparx’s eyes spotted one of the pink glowing moths going by. “Be right back!” He darted after the insect in an instant.

“How he can be so food driven for someone so small…simply baffling.” Cynder couldn’t repress a laugh, her silvery armor-plated glinting in the moonlight…her face contorted to one of slight worry as her gaze returned to Spyro. “You’re going to tell him he should go home, aren’t you?”