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Her talons clawed the ground as she ran over to her siblings. Her pin-feathered wings flapped as the hot desert wind graced her fur and face. A small bag hung around her neckHer siblings were on a hill waiting for her with the same bag. Clora, Her eldest sister’s rich red-brown fur shifted in the breeze, she towered over the rest, nearly fully grown. Her brother Wren, was only about 2 years older than her with his brown fur, his now fully feathered wings.Then there was her. She was the youngest in her family, her fur was sandy brown and her wings and paws were covered in down.“Looks like someone is finally awake” Clora spoke, her words had a hint of annoyance. “I was about to have Wren go get you.”“You know you could’ve done it yourself.” He spoke back “Why do I have to do everything for you?”“Cuz I’m older, so you have to do as I say.” She teased, a smug smile on her face “And I’m the one watching you two.”“No you're not, Roun is.” he pointed out “ so you can’t boss me around!”Erosa had forgotten about Roun. To her, he was still a stranger. He had only come to her family about a month ago.There was knocking at the door, Mother, Dad, and Pa woke from their pile. When Dad went to the door, a gasp escaped his lips which woke the rest of us. Clora put herself between her parents, blocking Erosa and Wren. She remembered looking past her sister's legs, trying to see who dad was talking to.Before she knew it, a stranger had walked in. His light brown feathers and fur were tattered and dirty, there wasn’t an ounce of muscle or fat on him, cheeks and eyes sunken from hunger and exhaustion. The way his eyes met and followed Dad’s, she could tell they knew each other.He came in, and Dad introduced him as his brother and that his name was Roun, He desperately needed a place to stay and that things in the empire had gone south. Her parents quickly spoke amongst themselves and decided that he could stay as long as he helped around.“Speak of the snake” Clora pointed to the bottom of the hill where her uncle was winging his way over to them. By now he regained some weight but was still quite weak.His talons landed on the ground next to Wren. “Why are you all out here?” He worried “Aren’t you all meant to be home?“Mother wanted us to forage,” Wren answered“In the afternoon? It’s scorching!”“She said that we need to be able to work at all times of day.” Clora remarked, “Think of this like its training.”“But- but-“ Roun’s eyes looked up at the sky and the horizon, he fumbled with his talons anxiously. “I guess it would be okay…” he cracked“We’ll be okay,” Erosa beamed with a huge smile “Trust!”“Oh alright- BUT we have to watch for snakes! And don’t eat any plant you don’t know. Your parents would hate it if anything happened to you.”“Quit being such a worry bug!” Clora snapped “Let’s just go, come here Erosa.”Clora hoisted her up into her arms and held her tightly to her chest. Together, they all launched themselves into the air, taking flight. Air filled her ears as she gazed at the ground far below. She could see rock formations and huts that housed other familiesOne day I’ll be flying all by myselfIt wasn't long until they landed again. The sand pebbles shifted as her sister let her down. They were in the fractured shade of a dead tree. This part of the desert had dry shrubs and tall cacti that were hundreds of years old. Large mountains stood in the far distance. She’d never been taken this far outWren caught her looking in the distance. “ Do you see those mountains over there? That’s Crystal Heights.”“Crystal Heights?” She echoed. The mountain was miles away but even from here it towered over the desert“That’s where the fauns live, they do magic.” He began “They use the crystals found in the mountains to predict the future!”“Wow,” Erosa said in awe“They can’t do that! They mess with your soul, that's what they do.” Clora barged in“Well, they do both.” Roun stumbled into the budding argument, still tied from the flight. “They can predict the future and they can change your soul. Honestly, they probably do more.”“Can they change you to be less anxious?” Her older sister jabbed“Of course, they can,” he began to explain “They can completely change who you are- wait- HEY!” He wined as he caught onto the insult“Can we just start gathering? We have to go back home before dark.” Erosa interrupted“She’s right” Clora confirmed “When the sun starts to set we meet back at this tree.She continued “Me and Wren will go by ourselves, while you and Erosa stick together.” The finished gesturing toward her Roun“But I’m supposed to be watching you!” He protested“What?” Clora said walking backwards “Sorry can’t hear you, too far away.” Still very much in earshotWren laughed and did the same. “Yeah, can’t hear you!”Soon it was just uncle and niece“So you know how to forage, right?” Roun asked“yeah! I’m like the best at getting bugs”— — —Erosa stabbed one of her sharp claws into the head of a tarantula and dropped it in her bag along with anything else she could find. Roun watched from a few steps away. Occasionally he brought her a lizard or a mouse he’d caught. But he also looked around often, seemingly searching.The burning sun began to set over the horizon, bringing a wave of coolness over the land. Roun walked over but this time nothing was in his talons. “I think it’s time to go back home.”A chilling breeze ran through her hair. “ I guess so. Do you think we have enough?” She opened her bag to show him leaves, berries, and other creepy and crawly things inside. Other than that the bag was pretty empty“Hmm, maybe, but including what your siblings bring back and whatever your fathers catch- it would make a wonderful dinner!” He mused“Yay!” She cheered and she bounded back to where they had all landed, her small wings flapped as she did. Round walked by her side guiding her in the right directionTogether they sat where they were meant to meet up. All they could hear were distant crickets in the foliage.Awkward silence“Uh, Roun?” Erosa called“Yes?”“Why are you so scared all the time?” She asked, “What’s so scary about the sky?”He chuckled then paused, searching for the right words “I’m not scared of the sky, I’m scared of what could be in the sky.”“Ha ha, like a dragon?” She jokedHe gave her an amused hum then sighed “Worse.”“Are you hiding from someone?” A tinge of fear in her voice, by the sun she hardly knew him yet she worriedHe ducked his head and his wings drooped “Multiple someones.” He muttered“What happened?”His mouth opened and closed but then he shook his head and said “You wouldn’t understand.”Then there was more silence“When you came, you said you lived in the empire.” She picked at the sand. “What’s it like over there? ”He visibly shuddered, “horrible. There might not be much out here, but it’s better than there.” He paused “It’s in the south near the coast. It feels cooler over there. Sometimes I’d eat fish or clams… It's the only thing I miss”“So Why is it bad? Did something happen?”“By the sun, you're full of questions. It’s the empress that’s the problem; she lets sphinxes do whatever they want. It’s constant chaos.”Before she could ask another question she saw her siblings flying towards them. They soared close to them and circled. “It’s time to go Roun,” Wren called. With that, their uncle leaped into the sky following his wind current.“Ready?” Clora called her little sister. Erosa closed the bag and nodded. Clora dove and snatched her from the ground, careful not to scratch her. Soon they all began flying home in a V formation. Clora in the front and Wren and Roun in her current. In her sister’s clutch, she watched the setting sun dip below the horizon in an array of warm orange, red and purples. She snuggled herself into the bigger sphinx’s fur for warmth.In front of their home was a lit campfire. The siblings landed and all greeted their mother who was tending to the flame. She had warm brown fur with dark brown stripes on her wings like Erosa did. Her belly had a bulge where an unlaid egg formed. Soon their fathers flew in from afar. Their bags full of food they had caught together, they dropped them off next to the fire where their children did“Evening my love,” Dad said as he lovingly butted heads with her, his fur was a cool brown and his wings long and narrow, like Wren’s.Pa came next and did the same “Caught us two hares for tonight!” He announced“Oh, That’s wonderful!” Her mother clapped “Only if I could have gone..” she ached“Soon dear, you’ll be able to come with us in no time, trust!” Pa consoled her in a hug, His words sweet and warm.Dad came back with metal rods and pans they’d used for years that they skewered and seared food on. Roun picked lizards and leaves roots and put them on the skewers while the siblings skinned the mice and hares and put the meat in the pan. When the food was cooked, they ate together as a family and spoke of stores.As they laughed at one of Dad’s jokes Erosa could’ve sworn she heard something else, something distant. She looked around for the sound and saw Roun doing the same. As the sound got louder he looked up at the sky. Now everyone was looking at the sky.“Oh sphinxes,” Mother said“Like a whole family,” Clora mentioned“What’s that they’re wearing?” Erosa asked looking up to Roun “Are they from the… empire?” She trails off on the last word as her eyes properly see his face. His once warm dark-skinned face was pale. His pupils were mere slits as the sphinxes flew closer.Closer towards them“Th-they….found me!” He dropped his plate in horror“Brother? Who are they?” Dad demanded, “What’s wrong?”Roun didn’t respond, all he did was shakily stand and back away and shake his head, Even his wings trembled.“Roun! Who are they??” Pa pressured, an anger in his voice Erosa had never heard before.“I- I- I can’t” and with that, he ran and launched himself into the sky at a speed Erosa could’ve never imagined someone as weak as him could go. The sphinxes were flying towards them and they looked angry.“I’m scared,” Wren admitted, his voice shaking“Children,” Mother called, words mixed with authority and fear “Hide in the grass. Now.” It was a command“But mother-“ Clora began“NOW.”With that, the children dropped their plates and ran in separate directions. Wren ran behind the hut, Clora ran behind a nearby boulder, and Erosa ran to the nearest shrubs which were about 3 wing lengths away (15 ft)From the distance, she heard pa tell Mother to go into the hutA minute later the group of sphinxes landed. There had to be six or seven of them and they all wore the same leather tunic and helmet that obscured their faces. The one that was leading the formation was wearing a green shoulder shawl. His talon shined oddly in the firelightDad steps forward and Erosa strains her ears to hear his words “Why are you here?”The one in the shawl fixed his posture “Oh what’s with the hostility?” His words were sickly sweet “We just want to ask some questions!”“We’re not answering any questions.” Pa snarled“Oh please at least answer this one itty bitty question.” He pleaded“No-“ green shawl cut Dad off “Who was that who flew away?”“I’m not answering your questions.” Dad hissed“Neither am I,” Pa added in the same tone“Well does whoever’s in the hut know?” Green shawl gestures to the structure. Erosa felt her heart sink. “I saw them go in there. I know I’m right.” She knew her mother could hold her own in a fight if she needed to. But she was in no position to fight since she was pregnantDad and Pa were silent. Green shawl leaned over to the sphinx on the right. She couldn’t hear what he said to them, but they tried walking to the hut, dad stepped in the way and flared his wings in an attempt to scare them off Which did nothing.“Oh, what a shame” green shawl held a talon up to his mouth like he was thinking. She could see it now. He had bracelets with strings that Fastened metal blades over his talons. They were long and razor-sharp, dirtied from the sand. “take him down.”Like it was nothing, the armored sphinx lounged and tackled her dad to the ground. The two clawed and kicked at each other, fur and feathers flew into the air, yelling and hissing.“GET AWAY FROM HIM!!” Pa leaped onto the armored sphinx's back and clawed at the back of their neck, they screamed as he did.“You, Go help them. You, get to the hut” Green shawl calmly gestured to two more sphinxes. One took to the air and tried pulling Pa from the sphinx’s back, he fought and clawed at them and flapped his wings trying to get free. But the sphinxes were strong. Even Erosa could see from where she was. Their legs and wings were much thicker than her family’s.the other approached the door. Before the sphinx pushed the door open, Wren ran from behind the hut and threw himself at the sphinx knocking them both to the ground. The sphinx was much bigger than him for he was only 13. She never thought her brother would ever do that, but for the sake of their mother, she understood.“So there are more of you!” Green Shawl said in awe.Wren clawed at the sphinx’s face, his talons slicing their eyes and mouth and wherever the helmet didn’t protect. They kicked wren off with their hind legs. Erosa heard the wind being knocked out of him as he flew a good wing length away (5ft) purely from the kick. The sphinx tucked their trembling wings over their face and writhed in pain “MY FACE MY FACE!!” They screamed.Her attention soon fixed on her dad, who had just landed a powerful punch in his attacker's face. The sphinx fell back and hit the ground hard, she couldn’t tell if they were breathing or not. But even if her dad still stood, he was in terrible shape. His wings drooped and his chest heaved. An eye scratched, ears torn, and bleeding all over, he was barely keeping himself up, dazed from the blood loss“you all do put up a fight. I must say” a sick smile sat on green shawl's face like this was a game to him. Without turning to face his sphinxes he spoke “You search the area for anyone else, you deal with happy claws over there, and you open the door.” He ended with a sinister tone and sent them off. A sphinx leaped into the air and soared in a circle over her home searching the land. Erosa tucked her wings and tail closer to her body, hopefully looking like a stone as they flew overhead. She prayed to the sun hoping her sister was doing the same.One of the sphinxes bounded over to Wren who was now standing and clutching his belly and knocked them to the ground. They tussled and clawed each other, Wrens screams filled the air as his attacker had one foot on his belly, holding him down, and slashed at his face and neck.Pa was in the air with his attacker when he forced his way onto their back and drove them to the ground with a deafening SNAP as they hit the ground. The armored sphinx lay lifeless on the ground as Pa stood on their wings“Ugh that won’t be salvageable..” green shawl booedThe other sphinx bounded over to the door and Pa tried to get to him, but green shawl stepped between them and swatted his armored talons making him stop. When the sphinx reached the door he forced it open.And out came her motherHer eyes looked over to Pa and then over to Dad who at this point had collapsed onto the ground and fear and anger filled them. But then she saw the sphinx that stood on Wren’s still and beaten body. The gasp she let out was deafening. She froze, her talons clasped her mouth in horrorGreen shawl now stood over her. “Ah, you're not the one I’m looking for. Oh well.” he shrugged“You did this?” Mother slowly met his eyes, fury in her voice“We had to, they weren’t being compliant.” He smiled “Sorry we had to do this!”She lounged with a barbaric scream knocking him to the ground. Pa tried to jump in but the sphinx who opened the door pinned him down. He harshly shoved her to the ground pinning her wrist to the side of her head, his blades making a clanking sound on the stones. A cut laid across his cheek“LET GO OF HER!!” Pa yelled while trying to fight off the sphinx. He scratched, kicked, and batted them with his wings, anything to get free.“May I?” The sphinx called to green shawlHe didn’t break eye contact with Mother “You shall.”The sphinx lifted a talon and slammed it down on Pa’s head, he cried when they dug their talon into his face. They picked up his head and smashed it on the ground again and again and again. Each time it made this sound that sounded like hitting a rock against a stone. sphinx stepped back from the mess they made of him.Erosa forced her talons over her mouth to muffle her cries knowing the sphinx was still overhead searching. She buried her face into her talons and felt her tears soak them. The scene of her blood father being murdered replayed in her mind.Through her sniffles and whimpers, she heard her mother yell “NOOOO!!” Her mother soon matched her sounds but she still spoke between sobs “Wh-why? B-b-by the sun…why?”“Here’s what you're going to do,” green shawl began softly “your going to tell me where Roun went, okay? Then Maybe you and your egg will get to live.” He pressed his blades to her throat“That way, h-he went that way” Her talons pointed north.“Wonderful! See, that’s all you had to do. You’ve caused all the bloodshed over nothing.”Her mother shook her “No, you did this…” she whimperedWith that, green shawl silently stood on his hind legs to his full height. He raised a leg and pressed his foot on her womb. Mother took in a sharp painful gasp. “This is your fault” he hissed, pressing his full weight on her belly and caving it in with a wet crunch.Her mother screamed a scream Erosa begged to never hear again. She moved her talons from her face to her ears and she heard herself cry harder, anything to drown out the screams.“I found one!” A voice called from above her heart sank deeper than she thought it could go “Over here! in the shrubs!”Green shawl fell back onto his talons and the two sphinxes followed behind as they all trotted over.She froze when green shawls eyes met hers as he made his way over, should she run or fight? Wouldn’t it be useless? Was she going to die like the rest of her family?But out of nowhere a familiar face dove onto one of the sphinxes like he was prey and with percussion they smashed them into the ground, chest first. Green shawl and the other jumped away as her sister launched back into the sky.“After her!” Green shawl ordered. at this moment, Erosa ran. She moved her legs as fast as she could and flapped her wings hoping feathers would suddenly appear and she could fly away from this mess. Behind her, green shawl took chase, she was nothing compared to his speed. She heard his blades scraping the ground, getting closer with every stride. Then the sound of wind and the sound of him tumbling behind her. She turned back to see what had happened and saw her sister clawing green shawl and tossing each other around. His blades graced her skin and drew blood just as often as she did him. Her sister’s face was soaked in tears like hers but she still fought to push him to the groundBut as she did another sphinx ran behind her and took her down, when she was distracted green shawl slashed her neck. blood sprayed the sand and stones as she collapsed to the ground holding her wound but it did nothing for her. Blood gurgled from her mouth as her eyes rolled back into her head. Now she lay there soaked in her blood, unmoving.Another sphinx seized Erosa and effortlessly held her to the ground. “This should be the last one.” They said, “Do we kill her too?”Green shawl rose, his helmet had fallen off and his once tidy fur was now a bloody mess. With his chest heaving, he said “No, the desert will take care of her. Leave her to die.”
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The empress’s room was lit by a single lantern, its warm orange glow was the only source of light that lit the many papers and folders in neat piles and stacks. Her brown eyes read a paper of the news that a soldier had brought to her at her request. It was full of the perspective of her subjects, her people, of the impact of her latest success.Just a month prior she had taken Down the illegal water operation that had been plaguing her empire for the past 40 years. It was a miraculous thing that she orchestrated, but it was just the first big step towards a better future.But it was horribleThe amount of soldiers she had lost and the many that were injured she blamed her poor planning for. It was her fault, every single broken wing, snapped leg, and lost eye was all her fault.Every single little bit.But it was also her past self that sabotaged her, the way her mouth ran for that sphinx, just for him to turn his back and snitch to the enemy. The way she would have loved to smack her across the face scold her. But that was the past, she had to focus on the future, future lives, future generations. That’s why she made herself empres, because the last one ,Empress Eraline, didn’t. She had to clean up her mess she left behind and she had to do a damn good job doing it. She was so entranced in her work that she didn’t hear the sound of running talons coming close.“EMPRESS EROSA!!!” a soldier busted through her door. Her leather armor laid on her body weirdly, her frantic running making it like that. “I’m sorry to intrude but we need you! You have to come quick!” She pleadedErosa dropped the paper on her desk and “What is wrong? What happened?” She demanded, her eyes adjusting to the bright light coming from out the door.“It’s an intruder to the Empire!” Another soldier called from behind the other“It’s HUGE!” Called another“Go back and keep them captive!” She barked an order as she ran from behind her desk, her tail knocking over papers. “I’ll be there! Now go!”The soldiers stepped back to let her through, there had to be at least twenty outside her door in need of her direction. Even if she was empress, she was still their high general. She took flight in the corridors and flew past other soldiers running to others and tell them the news but the wind in her ears and her speed made it impossible to hear. She turned sharply around corners, acasonaly leaping off the walls until she made it to her room. She threw the doors open and ran to her armor stand where her custom made metal armor stood.She buckled her helmet to her head and clamped her chest plate around her. She stuck her talons into her gauntlets made from the finest and strongest metals. The same ones she scammed her ex out of and saved countless lives with. As soon as she ran in, she ran out to be at her army’s side.she soared through the halls, her gauntlets harshly clanking against the ground as she did. She could hear the voices of workers filling the halls out of curiosity. “Empress, what’s going on?” “We’re are all the soldiers?” “Why is everyone in the throne room?”The throne room! Yes! That’s where she was meant to go. She took a turn down the hall where she could see outside the palace. Sphinxes were everywhere, some even flew close to the glass, begging to get a peak. She felt fear ripple through her fur and feathers at the sight of soldiers posted outside the throne room door. All armed with spears and heavier armor similar to hersShe spotted one of the other generals of her army in the front of the formation. “THE EMPRESS IS HERE! FOLLOW HER LEAD!”“RIGHT!” The other lower rankeds called as they moved out of her way and got in position behind her. The last two soldiers heaved the heavy doors opened to allow her in. In the throne room was chaos, armored sphinxes in the air flying way too close to each other, there was hardly any space on the ground where everyone spoke orders and anxiety’s. “Hold it down!” “What are we going to do?” “Where is Erosa?”“WHAT IS GOING ON?” She yelled at the top of her lungs as she stood on her hind legs. Her gauntlet curls on a heavy fist and her chest heaved under her armor. Even at her fullest height, she still couldn’t see what the problem was “MAKE A PATH!”They all scrambled to make a path for her, she had to avoid stepping on tails as she marched through. And in the center of the room amongst the chaos wasA dragonIts scales were a cool green and its long curled horns were a light mint. It’s back was caped in a dark blue marking that ran down its tail and across its wings. The fan at the end of its tail was a mix of yellow and orange that matched its eyes that fearfully looked into hers.Long ropes bounded its wings to its sides and talons together. A heavy rope Erosa knew even she would have trouble lifting was tied around its long muzzle, forcing it shut. Groups of her soldiers pulled on its ropes keeping it to the ground, although it didn’t look like it was putting up much of a fightErosa blinked. A dragon. A fucking dragon in front of her. As far as anyone knew they were all extinct, every last one, thousands of years ago, even before the Empire was made.“I- l” she began, but she didn’t even know where to startA general from behind her cleared his throat “it sailed in about thirty minutes ago on a ship that’s currently docked and is being guarded by the generals of the long claw army.”She swung around to face him “Thirty minutes ago?! It took you thirty minutes for you to tell me?!”He straightened himself up and avoided her gaze “it was a mess your highness! No one knew what to do! We never came across a dragon before...”Murmurs rippled through the crowd “I thought dragons weren’t real!” “We should kill it now!” “If there's one, there’s more!”She flared her wings and raised her fist demanding silence “send it to the dungeon!” Her voice echoed in the room. “Find a cell that will hold it and guard it with your lives.”“You heard her! Stand!” A soldier yelled in the dragon's face and she watched as it flinched away then obediently stood. It hoisted itself up and followed when the ropes pulled it out of the throne room in a way that seemed more like a hare leisurely hopping about.When the doors slammed behind its large figure she was bombarded by sphinxes with questions, she couldn’t even pinpoint a single word. She forced her way through the crowd as she sat upon her throne that brought up dust as she did and raised her gauntlet.Silence fell over the room“All soldiers who were actively present when the dragon came, come forth!”It took a minute for a group of sphinxes to separate themselves from the crowd. They all stood tall before her. It was only about twenty that stepped up and so she began her questioning.—————————————-The sun had set about an hour ago and the palace’s lights had been lit a flame, Open windows let in air flow to let the smoke out. A breeze came that shifted Erosa’s fur as she marched with a small army down the hall.They had all been fitted with metal armor and sheets to use as shields. Salt water sloshed in buckets on some of the sphinxes sides in case of fire. By Erosa’s side was one of her high generals, Leon. His fur and feathers were a light sandy color that contrasted his scared dark skin. His expression was similar to hers, stoic.Their rhythmic steps filled the hall as they made their way to the dungeon. A guard with keys tied around their wrist opens the door and leads them down into the dark stuffy cavern. Other guards lined the halls and stood in front of cells with prisoners of war inside, The caged sphinxes all scowled at her as she marched by.At the end of the twisting hall was where its cell stood. Guards spoke amongst themselves about nothing but they hushed each other as their empress turned a corner.She placed herself in between her subjects and the cell. “You are all dismissed. Go back to your homes and rest.”She watched as they all picked up their weapons and helmets, all of which they weren’t supposed to have taken off or put down, and their spots were then taken up by her soldiers. She stood on her hind legs and peered into the dark cell. Erosa took a torch off the wall and shined it up to the steel bars.The dragon was curled into the corner. It completely filled the back wall, as its figure lazily rose and fell as it slept. She extended a metal talon and taped it on the bars. “Wake up!” She called.They saw its ear flick upwards a turn in her direction, Its long neck rose and it turned its head to her. It sat itself in front of the bars, curling its talons around them.The empress felt a chill run down her spine. The way it’s yellow eyes stared into hers, and the way they looked down at her. by the sun it had to be at least twice her height and hundreds of times her strength.The heavy rope was still wrapped around its muzzle as it went to try and open its mouth, she and her sphinxes flinched, they raised their shields and surrounded her in anticipation of fire.She took in a deep breath “do you speak?” She asked in the most assertive voice she could muster.Its eyes widened and a smile seemed to appear on its lips as It vigorously nodded its head.“Do you breathe fire?”Its brows furrowed at the question and it shook its head like it was a weird thing to ask.She turned to a guard “cut the ropes.” She commanded. They stared into her eyes, hoping they heard her wrong. “it’s an order.” She said firmer this time.Their feathers puffed and their fur stood on end as they were handed a freshly sharpened spear. They walked up to the bars where the dragon had lowered itself to their level. Their talons trembled as they worked the weapon back and forth.When the last of the rope fell off they leaped back behind a shielded sphinx. Erosa and all the sphinxes tucked themselves away behind the metal where she could hear everyone tremble in their armor. But through her fear she looked through a space between the shields where the dragon stretched its mouth revealing sharp teeth.“Oh thank you! I’ve been aching to get that thing off!” She cheered. “Thank you so much!”Erosa raised her head above her protection only so that her eyes could be seen. “What is your name?”“I'm Aster. You're like the first person to ask me that!” Her face was pressed up to the bars “what’s your name?”“Empress Erosa” she declared“Empress Erosa? That’s a long name.”“Uh, no. My name is Erosa, And I’m the Empress.” She corrected meekly“Empress? What’s that? Are you like a mayor or something?” Aster asked, her head tilted to the side.“I am the ruler of the Burning Empire!” She stated proudlyAster gasped and drew her talons to her gaped mouth “like a queen?!? You're a queen?”Erosa was unfamiliar with the term “queen”. She recalled the books she’d read when she was younger about them. She knew that it was used in harpy society’s. As far as she knew, it was a kind of ruler.“Uhhhh yes, I suppose I’m like a queen.” She shrugged“YOUR HIGHNESS!!!!! I had no idea Sphinxes had a queen!” She yelled as she got on the ground and bowed “I mean, there was no way I could have known! Dragons and sphinxes- we- it’s been generations!”True. It’s been at least two thousand years since the dragons disappeared from the world. But before then, dragons and sphinxes had made an alliance that lasted about two hundred and fifty years until the the genocide. When that happened, the two races separated, sphinxes moved to the desert while dragons disappeared into the ocean.“Dragons have queens?”“Yes, three queens and two kings!” She rose from her bow. “Well it’s been a while since I’ve been home… sailing over the ocean and all, So take my words with a grain of salt”Erosa squinted her eyes “and where is home exactly?”Aster pulled her wings close to her and looked away. “I’m not- I’m not allowed to tell you that…your highness.”“Hmmmm…” Erosa thought of this, obviously the dragon has been keeping their new home a secret “is it in the desert?” She pressedAster shook her head then stopped herself “I mean- I can’t tell you anything! Not even a hint!”“But you just said you sailed the ocean to get here, am I wrong?” She stepped from behind the shield. Now it felt like she was staring into her eyes. “So you all live in ocean?”The dragon stepped back from the bars, now silent.Erosa clamped her armored talons around the bars as the dragon stepped back further. “Why are you here?” She hissed “why return to us?”“I’m a journalist turned… adventurer.” She squeaked “and I wanted to come and explore the world.”“Why?”“Well, only so much happens at home. Nothing notable or new has happened in years and we want something new.” She fiddled with her talons “we’re curious about what’s going on in the world but the royals won’t let us leave home.”She cocked her head “if you can’t leave, then how did you get here?”“I might have… snuck out?” She shrugged her wings with an awkward smile “and I’m not giving you details on that.” Aster said flatlyErosa ran through the list of questions in her head and chose one. “Wha-“What’s on your ship? Weapons? Poisons? More dragons?” A soldier blurted out demanded answers, also stepping up to the cell, But fled back to the other sphinxes when the empress's furious gaze fell on him.“Oh nothing really, just some personal belongings. As well as food, fresh water, OH and some clothing in case wherever I landed it was cold ,and how could I leave my jewelry and makeup!”“But it’s hot year round in the desert- Wait! You didn’t know where you were going?” Erosa questioned “You just set sail and hoped for the best?”“I mean, I had help along the way. Some friendly merfolk pointed me in the right direction. They all told me this was the nearest and safest dock so I sailed here!” Her head dropped with a grumpy expression “but I never thought I would be imprisoned by the first people I came across.”“Speaking of being imprisoned, um, when can I get out of here?” She finished “I kinda want some things from my ship.”Uhhh she hadn’t actually thought of releasing her.“Anything you need can be brought to you.” Erosa reassured“Oh okay, sooo when do you feed your prisoners? Do we get fruits or vegetables?”Fruit or vegetables?“Foods like those don’t really grow in the empire. Best we can do for you on short notice is most likely a camel.”“Camel? Is that like a big fruit? Sounds sweet!”“Errr no, you’ll see tomorrow. our time here is done” She turned to her guards “You’re all dismissed, but Leon, you're walking with me.”Leon straightened up and nodded, then everyone began leaving the dungeon. The guard who watched the dungeon door locked it behind them as Erosa and Leon stepped out.As they began walking down the hall, Leon spoke “what is it that you wanted to speak of your highness?”“I want you to organize the other high generals so we can search the boat tomorrow morning. Also send some soldiers to a camel farm and get two. All costs will be handled by me.”“Of course your highness, I will not disappoint” he bowed and began trotting down the hall“Wait!” Erosa called but like not desperately or anythingHe stopped “yes?”“Did your family’s eggs hatch yet?”His eyes widened, obviously not expecting her to ever remember their conversation a month ago “one did, it’s a boy!” He smiled “but the other is due some time this week.”She trotted up to him and whispered in his ear“ if you’d like, you can take the rest of the week off for its hatching, Paid of course, After tomorrow.” She smiledHis scared face lit up with glee “yes! Thank you! I’ll get it done right away!” He then bounded awayThat night Erosa went back to her study and fixed the papers and folders she had knocked down earlier that day. She dug through the book shelves that housed old books collected by past rulers of the past thousand years. Ofc some books had been remade simply because books don’t last that long. she took out a book that was remade twenty years ago (her being a year or two older) and sat it at her desk:Sphinxes and dragons history: was the title. She sat her helmet and gauntlets on the table and read the night away.One day time skipThe next day she woke in her bed that was full of soft clothes and pillows. She stood and stretched her legs, back, and wings. She strolled over to her armor stand and dressed herself.Knock Knock “Empres Erosa? Are you awake?”She turned over to her door “who is it?” It sounded more like a command than a question.“It is I, kuuma!” She proclaimed with pride “Grive and I have been informed that you requested our presence for today's events.”“Yes I did, is Grive with you?”“Yes, your highness.” He quietly spokeShe opened the door and was met by the two sphinxes. Kuuma was long like a snake with chestnut feathered wings that were even longer, she stood proudly in her Empress’s presence. She was wearing her leather tunic with a wing design sown in the frontGrive is a few inches shorter than Erosa and is dull brown with dropped ears and sleepy eyes, he looked around and studied the room behind her. He had two silver piercing in his left ear and a similar tunic to Kuuma“Where is Leon?” She asked“At a local camel farm.” Kuuma stated “he’d be meeting us at the ship.”“Good. Let’s get moving.” Erosa Trotted past them and they followed. guards patrolled the halls and nodded or bowed when their superiors walked past.“Empress Erosa, may I ask a question about the dragon?” Grive asked“Oh yes! Please tell us your highness!” Kuuma chimed in, “we were not present when it arrived.”Erosa thought for a second “of course.”“What was it like? Rude? Dangerous? Vicious?” Grive asked, his voice raising as he listed off his guesses“Her name is Aster and She’s… nice.” She dug through her head for the right words “a bit too loud, unprepared, and easy to intimate.”“Ah, so it's a female.” Kuuma said to herself “what did she look like?”Erosa thought back to the book she read last night. “Well she wasn’t dull or naturally colored like how they were thousands of years ago, She was bright and flashy.”“Her scales were like the sun hitting shallow ocean water and her eyes and wings were like polished gold.” She finished“That was an awfully poetic description, your highness.” Grive said “she sounds beautiful.”“I heard she was huge like a whale! Is that true?” Kuuma said“Twice the size of any sphinx!” Erosa exclaimed “and she looked stronger than anything I’ve ever seen.” A chill ran down her spine. The thought of Aster tearing through an army with her teeth and claws filled her mind. The blood shed would be unimaginable.But she felt like she would ever do such a thing“Where did she come from” Grive questioned as they turned a corner“She says she came from the ocean, but refused to tell me anything more.”At this point they had made it to the courtyard. The blazing desert sun warmed their backs as civilians flew overhead, some even carrying jugs of fresh water. A Small smile grew on her face knowing that that's what she fought for“Do not fret your highness, I’ll guide us there!” Kuuma offered“Well, you don’t really need to guide her. We all know where the docks are.” He corrected “and if you squint, you can almost see the ship from here.”He wasn’t wrong, from the edge of the courtyard you could see the docks through the heat waves. And at one of the docks was Aster’s ship that looked larger than anything else there.“I- well…” she stumbled, her face turned red in embarrassment “I would like to lead you there, your highness. May I?” Her voice no longer proud and now quiteErosa nodded with a smile “lead the way.”She nodded back with a bigger smile and they all walked up to the edge and leaped into the air. They spread their wings and flew in each other's curent. Erosa looked down at her empire, the sandstone brick homes and shops bustled with life. She watched as other sphinxes briefly flew with them, realized who they were, and frantically flew away.For a moment, Erosa’s eyes fixed on her heirs. Kuuma, high general of the smooth wing army, was about a year younger than her and always gave her the most respect and loyalty out of anyone. Only if she was more independent rather than always relying on her orders to do things. If she became the next Empress, she’d be lost.Then she looked to Grive, high general of the sharp eye army. He’s the same age as her, give or take a few months. He's always so observant of everything and has a great memory. But his poor sleeping habits alway hindered him and his potential. He'd make a better detective than an emperor any day.She enjoyed the way the cool ocean wind flowed into her armor and around her wings. The sea salt smell lingered in her round nose as they flew close. Soldiers stood guard around the large ship. She had never seen a ship that large before in person. Its blank white cloth sails caught the wind and drifted in place as ropes held it in place. The ship wasn’t like the ones in any of the books she had read last nightThe ship had no deck, its top was round and was woven like a basket. From there its sails stood and under it was a wooden platform that was for landing on and watching the sea. It had glass windows and an open front that led inside, where it looked dark and cool. Sphinxes flew in circles around the structure and stood on the dock surrounding it.As they came to land she spotted Leon in the crowd around the ship pushing his way through.Oh Leon, he is about two years older than her. If she had to fight side by side with any sphinx, I’d be him. He helped her when she killed Empres Eraline and was chosen to be the high general of the LongClaw army for it. But he leads with his heart and has a budding family to care for. He wouldn’t be able to handle it all.Erosa’s armored talons landed on the dock with a thunk alongside her heirs in front of the guards. Now that she stood in front of the structure it was much larger than she thought. Leon marched his way up to them“It’s good seeing you all here.” He beamed. He wore a beaten leather tunic and a helmet that obscured his deep facial scars.“Any updates on the ship?” Kuuma asked“Nothing other than civilians trying to get a peak, so I’m told.”“Do you think anyone could have gotten inside and tampered with things?” Grive questionedLeon sighed “maybe when the soldiers were captured the dragon. But everyone was more interested in Aster rather than the ship. No guarantee though.”“I see, I’ll just have to see for myself then.”“Are we aware of if there’s anything dangerous inside?” Kuuma stepped forward“She said that she didn’t bring any weapons with her.” Erosa chimed in“But we must remember that dragons may consider different thing to be weapons than us. So we still have to be careful.” Grive yawnedThat hadn’t even crossed her mind. Like how chocolate, a Delicacy in most of the world, is deathly poisonous to werecanine. Or like how the sun would make a vampire catch fire in an instant. maybe dragons used snake venom as a sweetener or alcohol in their candies.“Let us proceed with caution. I’ll lead the way” Erosa commanded. Her heirs nodded and arranged themselves in a diamond position. Leon and Kuuma at her sides with Grive in the back.In lead, Erosa and her heirs winged up to the front of the ship where the door lied open and they all stepped inside. A nice rug dyed yellow and red with symbols of dragons on it comforted their talons as they stopped on it. They all looked around and at the towering table with stacks of books, massive sweet smelling wooden barles up against the wall, shelves with more books and trinkets and junk. Unrecognizable Potted plants sat on the window seals taking in the light. Pots and pans sat next to a stone fireplace full of ash.“This sure does look like…a home.” Kuuma shrugged, visibly relieved“And a big one!” Leon said“Well yes, it has to acomadate for a large person.” Grive pointed outErosa continued walking and had to stand on her hind legs to properly see the top of the table. The books were thick and thin and all looked very heavy and well cared for. There was a journal that sat open with a half written page and a pencil by its side. She leaped on the table and turned it towards her.Day 152: I see land! Finally after seeing the same old walls and waves for the past couple months I see something new. And from here I see what looks to be structures. Maybe those are homes! That means people live here! I can’t wait to meet them and ask them so many questions!I hope they aren’t like the stories.“What’s that?” Leon called, soon leaping onto the table as well. “Is it a book?”“It’s a journal.” She replied, picking it and flipping though it’s thick pages, from what she could breafly read, they were full of words of the ocean and her travels. “ it’s a personal journal.” She confermed“I’ve never seen these plants before.” Kuuma said across the room. They looked over to the window seal she was looking up to. The plants are vibrant green with many different leaves and patterns. Some had red patterns or naturally torn leavesOut of all books she had read about different plants in all her years in the empire, she’d never seen or read anything like it. It’s like it’s from out of this world.“Do you think this is food?” Kuuma turned to her empress“Possibly, but I think whatever is in these barrels is what she was eating.” Grive gestured to the barrels “they smell sweet like cactus fruit and some of them are empty or half full.” He pushed some of the barrels, some rocked lazily while others stayed put no matter how hard he pushed.“It’s also what I see cargo ships usually carrying food in for long voyages.” Grive finished“Good work, Grive!” Leon thanked“Well I could have figured that out.” Kuuma scoffed “...smart ass…” she mumbled under her breath.Grives' ear twitched “it was a simple observation.” He said flatly. “Only if you used your eyes before trying to eat something potentially poisonous.” He shrugged his wings
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Tonight had to be perfectErosa and her soldiers, no, her friendsGrive, Kuuma, and LeonThey flew in a diamond formation and sported matching Smoothe Wing leather tunics and helmets that Kuuma had managed to steal. Erosa was in the front in her metal chest plate, fitted with pauldrons and Vambraces (pauldrons and verbraces are shoulder and arm armor), in the night sky. The frigid desert air brushed their faces and wings as they flew to the Burning palace (for clarification, the palace isn’t on fire. That’s its name.)It was a new moon tonight and the empire was dark and asleep, Except for the palace that was riddled with guards. She recalled back to the observations that Grive had made a month priorBetween Tuesdays and Thursdays, Smooth Wing guardsmen will patrol the palace. At midnight there will be no guards on the courtyard, that’s where we can get in.In the darkness, no one saw them land and they made sure their talons didn’t tap the mosaic tiles that colored the ground. From there, Kuuma looked back at her friends, but specifically Erosa for confirmation. Erosa nodded at her and she nodded back, understanding that this is her part of the planThe Smooth Wings know Kuuma, they’ll listen to her. Erosa recalled Grive’s tiered voice. She has to tell all the guards in our way that they are dismissed for the night.From then on everyone followed Kuuma through the silent halls of the palace, sticking to the walls and hiding in the shadows. They were walking down the hall that led to the Empress's room, Empres Eraline. Out of all the building, it was one of the least guarded, few guards lined or walked the hall. Nonetheless, they were there.And they needed them gone.Stupid Eraline. Erosa thought. Of course she keeps most of her guards near her treasury. Apparently it’s more important than her life. She sneeredWith her tail Kuuma signaled them to stop as they came across sphinxes posted in the hall. They pressed themselves behind a stone pillar as Kuuma walked up to them“Guardsmen!” She called. The three of them looked in her direction. They clutched spears in their talons and fixed on her confident stride towards them. “I've come to deliver a message sent from high general Harlin!”The eldest sphinx straightened out. “Of what?”“For tonight, you are all dismissed.”A middle aged sphinx stepped forward and looked her up and down. “And why should we believe you? Why are we being dismissed?” they leaned in closer studying her.“It's fine guys, it's just Kumma.” the youngest sphinx spat “she's one of those suckups, who does whatever Harlin wants.”Erosa felt a ping of anger stab her heart. She's just loyal. Nothing they've ever seen before. She thought then smiled. She's loyal to me now, rather than that heartless monster.“ugh, a talon kisser.” the second sphinx recoiled away from her like she was filth. “Let's just go. I have a million better things to do than be here all night”“Agreed.” the eldest sphinx said with a groan. And together they walked right past the pillar where they were hiding without even batting an eye. After they had left they continued to creep down the hall and occasionally stopping for Kumma to shoo away any more guards they had come across.Soon they came to a three-way fork in the hall. This time Erosa didn't have to remember the plan because Grive stepped forward and reminded them.He turned to Kuuma “there should be a patrol walking down this hall very soon. I need you to go and dismiss them.” his soft voice barely above a whisper. “I will walk down the hall and keep watch,” he turned to Erosa and Leon. “You two get in Eraline’s room. Now go.”They all silently nodded at each other and went their separate ways. Kuuma straightened herself and put on a cold expression and walked down the left hall. Grive creeped down the right hall and stood at the corner, a guard post.By the sun, its genius. Filling a guard post so guards won't worry about walking down the hall and seeing us. I couldn't have chosen a better sphinx to make this plan.Leon and Erosa walked down the middle hall side by side. Her eyes fell on the royal doors that held her Empress behind them. It was a beautiful carved wood door with gold plated hinges, engraved gems and stones that had to be hundreds of years old by now. The thought of Eraline sleeping soundly behind them in her soft luxurious bed while hundreds of sphinxes had to sleep on the streets enraged her.In front of the doors stood two well armored guards that looked their way when they came close. They had matching spears and armor like Erosa’s despite their status as Smoothe Wing soldiers.Grives words replayed in her mind. Well armored guards will be posted outside of the Empresses door at all times. They are specifically told not to move until that night's replacement arrives. Do what you have to to get rid of them.She felt a chill run down her spine as they stepped closer, but she couldn't let them see that. “It is I, Erosa, high general of the Quick Talon army.” she said smoothly “ My soldier and I will be taking your place for the night.”The two guards looked at each other. “No you're not,” one began “we don't take orders from anyone but Harlin.”“Especially when it comes to the Empress's safety.” the other finishedDo what you have to to get rid of them.Do what you have to to get rid of them.Do what you have to to get rid of them.“I see.” her eyes narrowed. she brushed her tail to his “Leon?”Leon didn't have to wait for her command, he leaped with all his might and knocked one of the guards to the ground with a thunk. While the other was in shock, Erosa did the same. They tumbled back and landed with Erosa on top, she pressed her talons on their throat and squeezed hard. The sphinx thrashed under her, desperately trying to get free so she stood on their gut and pressed harder. She felt their claws dig scrape her vambraces to no effect. Soon their movements slowed and weakened as they succumbed to the lack of oxygen.After a few seconds of them being limp did she let go. She looked to Leon who had been pinned to the ground by the stronger sphinx. The guard held him down by the head and stood on the feathers on his sandy wings, they had their spear in one talon and had it to Leons throat.Without thinking Erosa picked up the spear of the passed out guard and swung it into the side of Leons agresser’s head with a CLUNK sound. Leon pushed them off and they slumped to the ground.He's so selfless, throwing himself like that. They caught their breath together. yet so brave for doing it. Good thing he's on my side.“Let's put them against a pillar.” she breathed “like they're sleeping.”“Right.” Leon agreedThey dragged them to a nearby pillar and sat them there. Leon took the time to haul the chest plate and helmet off of one and put it on himself. Him and Erosa picked up the spears and got in position.Grive’s voice echoed in her head. If everything goes well you and Leon should be alone at the Empress's door. Leon, you stand guard while Erosa gets Eraline to let her in her room. And when you get inside, lock the door behind you and move away any weapons she can use against you.Erosa breathed in and out quickly to make herself sound out of breath “Empress Eraline? Are you awake? Please, it's urgent!” she acted “please! I need to speak with you!” she cried but only loud enough for the sphinx on the other side to hear.She pressed her ear to the door as she knocked frantically. “Empres Eraline!?” At this point she heard the sound of heavy talons hitting the floor on the other side. “Are you up? I know its late but-”“Oh what is it?” Eraline barked“Its me, Erosa! I have news! BIG news!” she pleaded“oh it's you…” She grumbled, Ersa could almost hear her eyes roll “can't it wait till morning?”“N-no! We have to speak of it now! Its-its…” she paused, she wasn't sure what to say.she looked to Leon for an answer “werecoyotes!” he whispered“Werecoyotes! Its the Werecoyotes!” she finished“WHAT!?” she yelled. “What about them?”“We cant talk about it out here, Let me in! It's very sensitive information!” Erosa begged.There was silence for a second then the sound of a key turning the lock to the door. when she heard the click of the lock coming undone she turned the knob and let herself in. she found herself in the empress' face, her face reeked of fear and anxiety and so did Erosa’s, but hers was fake.Erosa turned and Closed the door behind her, and when she realized the key was still in her highness’s talons, so she seized them in hers and said “oh thank you for letting me in!” and when she pulled away, she took the key with her and locked the doorShe walked around the spacious room and flapped her wings anxiously “its horrible! The werecoyotes, they- they-” she cried as she picked up a lamp and put it to the side. “Me and my army, we saw them on the uhhh…WEST side of the empire!” she locked a window drew the curtains in. “they looked angry! They had armor and- and swords! and they wanted to kill us all!” She sweeped jewelry and combs off the nightstand and lifted her pillow on her bed for any secret weapons,then pushed the blanket off. “They're planning an attack, I heard them say it!”“by the sun, that's horrible!” Empress Eraline gasped as Erosa did one more sweep around the room “I need the generals to know! And prepare the armies and tell the citizens!”“Oh dear! It looks like you're about to faint! here, sit on your bed.” she ushered to the bet to get her away from the door“Really? I don't feel faint.” she said as she held her talon to her forehead“I know.” Erosa said calmly “I just wanted you to sit.”“wait -what?” Eraline paused, picking up on her change“But I still need to have a very private conversation with you.”“What are you talking about? What about the Werecoyotes?” Eraline questioned“Oh this isn't about the Werecoyotes.” Erosa smiled, “this is about me, you, and the empire.”Eraline stood but Erosa swung her spear and blocked her way to the door. “Sit.” She demanded. Eraline returned to her bed, her face a mix of fear, confusion, and anger.“What do you want?” She asked in the most assertive tone she’d ever heard come from her. But she wasn’t shaken“I want to be Empress.” Her words cold and flat as she lightly hit the spear on the floorThe Empress's eyes widened in shock but dissolved into a sinister smile. “That’s not up to you.” She sneered, “you know the rules.”“Yes, I know them.” She paused “but I do know one thing that’s up to me.”Eraline sat back and looked like this was all boring her. “And that is?”“Your life.” She matched her sneeredHer ears fell and her fur prickled “…you wouldn’t.” She muttered“Maybe,” Erosa shrugged “but it’s still on the table.”“I’m not making you Empress. I’d never give up this life.”Oh course she wouldn’t. She got to do nothing for the past 28 years because she gave up on her empire when she got tired. Cooling in crystal Clearwater while sphinxes died from dehydration. Stuffing her face with food while children fight over magots. Living in a vast palace while families sleep in alleys.A Disgusting Sphinx like her didn’t deserve to be ruler.“I’m giving you two options.” Erosa began “option one, you say no and that I’ll never be Empress. Then I will kill you and become Empress some other way.”“Or option two!” She continued in a more cheerful tone “ you say yes and you go and change to order on the heir list and make me first. Then you write a letter stating that I am the new Empress and that you are retiring. And then I’ll let you stay in the palace and continue living your gorgeous lifestyle.”Erosa watched as the gears turned in her mind as she worked through her options.“Do you really mean I can retire? And keep living like this?”Erosa smiled “I’ll make sure of it” she gave her an empty smile“I-I choose the second option then.” She answered “you can be Empress”“I knew you'd made a wonderful decision.” She complimented. She relaxed her grip on her weapon and posture. “Now come, you have some papers to write.” She walked over to the door and unblocked it then waved her over to join herEmpress Eraline went from her bed and to the door where she reached for the knob. Erosa grabbed her wrist and felt her jump as she did. Erosa used that same talon to gently grab her face and she leaned in close to her ear.“When we walk out this door you go straight to your study because that’s where the heir list is, isn’t it?” She already knew the answerThe Empress nodded and she felt her squeeze her face a little more “good, I’ll be walking behind you and I will watch you write the papers until you're done.” She leans in closer until she could her Eraline’s shaky breath “ and don’t you try a single fucking thing. After all…”“Option one is still on the table.”From there she stepped back and let her open the door. The two walked past Leon, he locked eyes with Erosa and she nodded at him in a silent thank you. He smiled and puffed out his chest in pride as they continued moving.The halls were empty and not a sound of armor clanking or talons taping could be heard. Thank you Kuuma. She thought. Without guards in the halls, Eraline can’t raise a panic.Soon they came to the study. This door wasn’t lavish like the Bedroom door, in fact. It looked like it hadn't been opened in decades. But she knew it wasn’t true. Over a month ago, Grive had managed to sneak in and find the Heir list so they knew exactly where it was. He always had a good eye. Now Eraline can’t lead me somewhere different. Thank you GriveThe Empress opened the door and even in the dark you could see the dust in the air and cobwebs on everything. Old books filled the walls on old stone shelves, papers littered the hard tile floor. They walked in and Erosa closed and locked the door behind her. Eraline had turned on a very old oil lamp that’s light was weak, She then began peaking between the book and pulled out a paper and sat it on the deskThe heir list. Erosa realized. She stepped closer to the paper just enough so she could read it.ROYAL HEIR LIST: the following names listed 1 through 12 (high generals first, generals second, low generals third) who are to be chosen to be the next ruler of the Empire. The names are to only be changed and ranked solely by the current ruler. Only the eyes of the current ruler may meet this paper or in the exception of the rulers death. In the case of the announcement of the new ruler either the retired ruler, family, friend, or a specified Sphinx may announce the next ruler.1: Canyon2: Harlin3: Mica4: Erosa…Of course out of the other high generals I’m the last pick. She spat in her mind. All because I didn’t kiss her talons at every chance I got, Or gave her Expensive gifts, or threw parties funded by the very organizations that were destroying the empire in front of her.The Empress picked up an empty paper, a pencil and a pen from the dusty desk. She pulled back the chair and sat down. Erosa stood behind the door and let her spear hit the ground as a gentle reminder that she’s armed.She took the pencil and erased Canyon’s name and replaced it with Erosa’s. Then she turned to the pen and began writingI Eraline, ruler of the Burning Empire, hereby retire as Empress in turn for Erosa to take my place and to rule the desert with the strength and determination that comes with the title. May she rule with the grace and power of the sun. glory to the EmpireSeptember/ 28/ 6,089Empress EralineShe then sat the pen aside and let out a breath she was holding. “I’m not… I’m not Emperss anymore…” she said like a weight was being lifted off of her wings.Wow, i can't believe it… Eroasa thought“Thank you, Eraline.” She said, but this time it was genuine “I won’t let the Empire down.” She whispered“Wow, this feels amazing” she laughed “now I really don’t have to do anything! Not even sign papers or listen to my citizens complain… about so, so much.” There was a ping of guilt in her voice then she gasped “a true break!”“As Empress id like to enact the first part of my plans” Empress Erosa announcedEraline stood from her chair “and what’s that?” She wore a smile that was full of a child-like wonder even if she had to be in her late fifties by now.Erosa smiled back like mother looking at her child “option one”She drew back her spear and rammed it up the bottom of Eralines rib cage. With a sharp yelp she fell backwards into the table. Her eyes wide as she looked down to the weapon logged in her body. she gasped in uneven breaths unsure if she should scream or say something or do anything.Erosa twisted the spear and pushed it deeper into her, rich blood seeped into her fur as she coughed up blood “Why??” She choked out, blood streaming from her mouth“Because this is how my family died.” Erosa spoke “and your soldiers, and your citizens. All because you couldn’t rule us.” She tapped her chin “and all because you were tired,” she got on her knees and leaned in close only inches away from her dying victim's face “you were tired for 28 years?”She coughed out more blood and spurted out “I’m… sorry…”She shook her head “sorry doesn’t bring sphinxes back from the dead.” She whispered in her earShe listened as her gargled breathing became faint and stopped as she slumped over in stillness. She looked down at the mess she had made. I will be better. I have to be better for the sake of the empire. She stepped around her body and left the study, closing the door behind herShe walked the halls she now owned, And her ears twitched when she heard the sound of sphinxes approaching. Act normal. she told herself, but soon found herself at ese when three familiar faces turned the corner. They all sprinted up to her.Kuuma began “where's the Empress? Is she still in her room?”“No, she's not. Empress Eraline left with Erosa a few minutes ago. I heard it” Grive answeredLeon stepped forward “Erosa, is it done?”They all stared at her in anticipation, their ears turned and listened intently. She rased her head in pride and said“That's Empress Erosa to you.”
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She was in her study like how she always was, From sunrise to midnight she was there working away. Papers were now sprawled around on her desk, housing plans, letters from the armies, death threats, battle plans, and news from neighboring nations.She ran a talon over a list of the newest soldiers in training, her heart ache for all the hurt and dead soldiers filled her mind from her last battle of the water operation.We only won out of luck. She told herself, and it was true. Even then, we lost so many lives. It’s my fault.‘I won’t let my empire down.’ She recalled that fateful night. She murdered the ex Empress Eraline in this very room out of pure hatred and revenge for how she treated the empire.But her words from the first time they spoke together echoed in her head. The way Eraline spoke about the condition of the empire fueled her with hatred. Then she remembered how she described her first two years as an empress as stressful and tiring, and how she needed “a break”.She scoffed to herself. Yeah, a twenty eight year long break that fucked in the entire empire. But she had to admit, a break sounded amazing. So many sleepless nights and long days were wearing her thin.No! She yelled in her mind. I can’t take a break! There’s so much to be done, so much to fix. I have to do that first.Her stomach growled. Even if she had a private kitchen to cook all her meals, she refused to eat. So many sphinxes hate me. What if they try to poison me?She rubbed her tired eyes. She had the most soft and amazing bed in all of the desert, but she didn’t sleep. What if someone kills me in my sleep? Then who would rule the Empire?Leon, Kuuma, or Grive would. But which one should I choose? Who can I trust with the empire?Leon led with his heart and has compassion for everyone. He has a growing family waiting at home for him every night that he cares for. Having a family, and leading an Empire wouldn’t mix. Who would he prioritize?Kuuma is so loyal and hangs on Erosa’s every word. She does anything for her no matter what it is, even aiding in murder. But she relies on her for everything and wouldn’t be able to lead on her own.Grive is smart and surprisingly observant for someone like himself. He’s great at spotting weak points and exploiting them, and is more agile than he seems. He doesn’t have a single authoritative bone in his body, no one would listen to him.She wished she had other options, but they are the best option. They are her friends and loyal Members of the Burning Empire.Well, loyal to an extent. She remembered how about a year ago they were all going against their Empress and planned to kill her together. If they were willing to turn on Eraline, why should I think they wouldn’t turn on me?That’s what kept her up all night, her closet allies turning on her.Leon is strong and fights with his soul, if He thought I’m doing a bad job, he might try it. Kuuma turned on Harlin for me. Who's to say she won’t do it again? Grive is too smart, he came up with the plan to kill Eraline, he could do it again for me.They can’t be trusted. She concluded. No one can. I have to keep everything to myself, I can’t tell anyone anything. They could use sensitive information against me and ruin everything. Just like AmellShe thought back to when she was younger, when she was a low general. She had a crush on her friend Amell. She told him everything from how her day was to battle plans.One day She told him everything about the plan to take down a local gang, an ambush. And on the night of the attack she confessed her love for him.But then the battle was a disasterAmell had joined the gang and told them everything she told him, all for a quick buck. He said he was using her and that he would never love her. Then they fought, and he died, while Erosa became high general.She hadn't been able to trust like that again. Not strangers, not fellow soldiers, not even her heirs now.All the paranoia, work, sleepless nights, all the threats, and all the expectations. It was driving her insane.By the sun, is this why Eraline quit? She jumped at the sudden thought. Was it? Is- is this how she really felt?She recalled how Eraline ranted about how much work it is and how she needs her “vacations”, and how relieved she was to not be an empress anymore.It then dawned on her that there was more to the situation than she had thought. Is this how she really felt? She brought a talon up to her mouth as her mind whirled. That’s horrible… no wonder she stopped.Then she continued to think. That’s why she let the operations control everything! She didn’t want to be Empress anymore, but she still wanted all the benefits of being ruler.She was just trying to escape… escape everything that I’m feeling.“Did she deserve to die for that?” She mumbled aloudNo, she did! … right? She’s the reason everything went to shit! But she just wanted a break.She didn’t deserve to die…She stood and felt a wave of lightheadedness as she looked over the room. She stood in the same spot where she had killed her, next to the spear she did it with leaned against the wall. She recalled the way her eyes met her own in the lantern light that night.The hope in Eralines eyes twisted into pain and shock as Erosa had rammed the weapon into her chest. Her last words ‘Why?’ And ‘I’m sorry’ replayed over and over in her mindbecause I was angry, Because I didn’t understand… she answered in her mind“I- I need some air…” she whispered as she turned off the lamp and made her way to the door. The beaming sun stung her eyes as She locked the multiple locks she had installed on the door.She began to walk without a destination. Her mind spun around and around and it felt like the words were never ending. Does this count as a break I can’t do those There’s so much to be done and not enough time Eraline I’m sorry so so so sorry for how the empire Is doing I’m failing everyone and it’s all my fault I can’t fix this it’s all out of my talons and no one can help me everything is on my wings and i can’t do it all everything is a disaster I-“Empress Erosa?” A singsong voice called out to her from above.She looked up and realized she had stumbleupon Aster, who’s eyes looked into hers and were deep in worry. She fidgeted with her long powerful talons and she held herself low so she didn’t seem as large.For a moment she was taken out of her head and realized she had Been loudly breathing out her mouth. Now she held her breathShe’s going to kill me! How could I forget about the massive dragon who could kill me in a single bite?! Are there guards around? Will they hear me if I scream? Would they even come?Aster stepped forward “You look… awful.” The dragon's words were low and sympathetic. Her ears turned down and her wings drooped as she looked at her body.Erosa was thinner than usual due to her lack of eating and exercise, maybe a little underweight.“You’ve hardly left your study in the past month. Are you okay? Is something happening?” She had taken a step closer and ducked down to the point where her feet fully touched the ground. Now she was just above eye level with her‘Are you okay?’‘Are you okay?’‘Are you okay?’Her caring words spun in her mind as she felt a lump in her throat appear and her eyes water. She sniffled “… no…” her voice trembled as she choked out the single word. No one had ever asked so directly about how she felt since she had become empress. They always had beaten around the bush when they dared ask her about it. This was so suddenShe could feel Aster looking at the bags under her eyes, her un-preened feathers, and knotted hair. “You look so tired, you need a break.” She recommended“No!” Erosa yelled “ I can’t do that, I have so much work and no time for anything else!”“Respectfully, your highness, (you look like shit \J) but you look like you haven’t eaten or slept in weeks! Aren’t you taking care of yourself?” Aster asked“If I take care of myself, who will take care of the empire?” Erosa questioned“Isn’t that what your friends are supposed to do?” She cocked her head “and don’t you have sphinxes to help you?”“No one can be trusted!” She snapped “not even my heirs!”Aster looked taken aback and was silent for a moment. “Your… not okay.” She concludedAnd Erosa was silent too.“You need a break.” Erosa was about to talk back but Aster cut her off “how are you supposed to run an empire if you're like this?” Her voice had a firmness she had never heard before when she gestured to her body.“I don’t know… but I have too-“ she began meekly before she was cut off“But you don’t.” The dragon talons were on her hips.“But where?” Erosa begged “where could I go to do that?”“What do you mean? This place has a bunch of places to go! You have a pool, a garden, your room-““I can’t go there.” She budded in “ I… I won’t go there…” she averted her gaze. I don’t want to go where Eraline has been.“Then come to my place.” She offered “that’s where I go when I want to be alone.”Follow her to her lair?! That’s where she’ll cut me up and stuff me into one of her pots then eat me!“Fine…” she breathed. But I guess it can’t be that bad, and if she does want to kill me she'd make it quick.It might be just what I deserve—————-Before she knew it, they were flying side by side under the desert sun. Erosa flew in her massive current made by her huge wings, but even then it was still hard to fly. Keeping her wings open was tiring but flapping them was even harder.I had no idea I was this exhausted… she thought.Other sphinxes soured out of their way, too afraid of the dragon to notice their empress. And soon together, they landed on the head of the ship. It bobbed slightly with the sudden weight. Guards loosely circled overhead but paid no mind to the dragon’s arrival. Had they not even noticed me? She thought.Aster opened the massive doors that looked normal sized compared to her and bowed as she gestured for her to come in. The sweet smell of dried fruit and books filled her nose when she stepped in. her wings hung low, too tired to tuck them in properly. “Sorry about the mess!” Aster confused as she picked up a pile of books and began placing them on a nearby shelf. “Make yourself feel at home.”Erosa leaped up to the booth and sat on the cushioned chair. She rested her head in her talons as she watched Aster cleaning up. She then turned to the window over the booth that let in daylight. Other than the sound of the dragon walking around, she could hear the faint voices of shoremen bringing in ships and offloading cargo. The subtle squawks of sea birds mixed with the sound of waves hitting the sandy beach was in stark contrast to the deafening silence of her study.“It's pretty nice out here.” Erosa spoke“It reminds me of home.” Aster answered as she took a seat, joining her.Erosa turned to her “And what's that like?”Aster leaned back and made herself comfortable “I lived my entire life on a ship you know. This is like how I lived on the channel with my mother growing up.”“Did you have a father?”“Oh yeah, but I'm not that close to him or my sister.”“I don't mean to pry, but did they split? Did something happen?”“Well, they had eggs.” Aster shrugged then noticed the confused expression on Erosa’s face “it's a dragon thing. The parents split clutches and raise them separately.”“But wouldn't it be easier to raise children together?”“It goes back to when dragons lived with all the other races.” she began “Parents would have to leave their dragonets behind to look for food for hours, and in case something bad happened, they had other children somewhere else to carry their blood. We don't really have to do it anymore, but we still do.”“Well sphinxes do the opposite of that. Our families stick together and help raise each other's children in flocks.”“ooOhhh, what's your flock like?” Aster leaned in “oh! And do you mind if I write this down for my journal?”Erosa nodded with a small laugh “go ahead.” When Aster returned with her journal, she continued. “I grew up in the rural desert near crystal heights with my family. I had an older brother and sister with my three parents.”“Three parents?” Aster looked up from her writing“Yes, I had two fathers and a mother. Pa, dad, and mother are what we called them and They were a happy couple. Dad fathered Clora and Wren and Pa fathered me and…” she paused“You have a fourth sibling?”“Almost had a fourth sibling…” the memory flashed in her mind “I don't want to talk about it.” she whispered“Ah, I understand.” she nodded “ sooo how's the rest of your family doing?”“Dead.” she said flatly. “Except my uncle, maybe.” she spat and lashed her tail like his mention left a distaste in her mouth“Oh. Uuhhhhh you must be starving!” Aster stood, trying to change the topic. “I'll get you something to eat.”She went over to where the fireplace was and picked up a wooden bowl. She carried it over to the barrels and scooped out some dried fruit with a ladle. When she came back over to the table and sat it in front of her.When she looked into the bowl it was a mix of largely diced fruit of all kings of colors. Some green, others red, yellow, and orange. She felt her stomach growl as she was caught in its alluring smell. “I'd love to try some, but I'm not sure I can eat any…”“What do you mean?” Aster asked“I mean it might be poisonous to me. Not all races can eat the same things, Aster.” she explained“Oh but these fruits are okay! Trust me, every once in a while I toss some to the soldiers. They've been nicer after that.”“Soldiers are coming to you for food?” she gasped “hmmm, i might have to look into that…” she then picked a yellow chunk.One of her fathers words replayed in her mind ‘don't eat things you don't recognize. That's how you get sick.’But the soldiers eat them and they’re fine, So i will be too. Right?She waryly took a bite out of one of its corners and gingerly began to chew it. Despite its title, it felt so flavorful and sweet. It was a burst of flavor she had never gotten before. After swallowing she asked “what is this?”“It's a pineapple. It's not my favorite but it was cheap when I bought it.” Hours seemed to pass in minutes while they sat and spoke about their homes, culture, and history. The once sunny and clear sky had turned shades of yellow and orange when the sun began to set over the horizon.Erosa's head laid on the table as Aster finished talking. Aster looked out the window, the sky reflected gorgeously off her eyes and scales, it almost seemed to make them glow.“Erosa, can I ask you a question?” She broke her gaze with the window and mended it with hers.She sleepily nodded“Why were you so upset earlier today? You looked so freaked out.”She looked over to her then back to the window as she fixed her words “do… do you think I’m a bad person?”Aster pulled back in shock “no! Why would you think that?”“You know I killed Eraline, my predecessor, right?”“Well yes, but you said she was a terrible person.”“I’m starting to think she isn’t that bad… maybe she didn’t deserve to die.” She whispered when her eyes began to water “like I’m finally starting to understand her actions and now I feel like I messed up.”Aster was quiet for a moment then spoke “but you had to do it to be empress, right?”She nodded as she wiped her eyes. “The other heirs had horrible Intentions for the empire, But I didn’t have to kill her. She made me empress before I did that.”“… so why’d you do it?”“I was angry.” She mumbled “I’ve lost so much because of what she did.”Erosa watched as the gears turned in her head. “Is that… how you’re family…”“And countless soldiers” she nodded “and their families who were depending on them, who had to turn to crime to live.”“Wow, that’s terrible.” Aster sighed“But now I know how she felt. So many expectations, so much work, needing to do everything and not mess up.” She yawned “it’s so tiring…” she continued “I get why she stopped, But I can’t be like her, not ever.”“You're not a bad person, Erosa.” The dragon confirmed “you just need to clear your mind, with a good nap.” She stood and walked over to her bedroom “I know you don’t feel all that safe in the palace, so if you’d like, you can have my room for a while.” she shrugged “only if you want tho…”Erosa remembered back to when her and her heirs were searching the ship. Of course it was the biggest bed she'd ever seen covered in the heaviest blanket. Pillows lined the walls that smelled of herbs and perfumes. A window hung over it with drawn blinds that casted a calming ambiance in the room. She often found herself thinking about it when she was dozing off in her study“Yes, thank you.” she said as she dropped from the booth “but where will you be sleeping?” “On the couch. I've done it before, I can do it again.” she shrugged as she sat on said couch.“ah, okay. Well thank you again.” she began closing the bedroom door.“Anytime.” Aster called as she laid down on her couchThe door closed with a click and she surveyed the room around her. Other than the ever so comfortable bed calling her name. She looked over to a desk with a mirror on it, she picked it up and looked at her reflection. She couldn't see herself all too well in the darkening room but she was able to pinpoint the sunken bags under eyes and how her cheeks were much thinner than how they were supposed to be. She gingerly felt her face. By the sun, I've really let myself go, haven't I? Tomorrow I should do some training with my army and actually eat a proper meal. But first, I should sleep…She put the mirror back where she found it and walked over to the bed. She leaped upon its cool mattress and pulled the covers to herself and snuggled under them, its weight pressed down on her in a securing way. She got a pillow small enough for her head and rested on it.The dim light, gentle rocking from the waves, and seagull cries was like a mixing lullaby loring her to sleep. Just a nap, that's all I need. She thought. Maybe an hour or two then I go back to the palace.yes that sounds right… When Erosa woke she pulled herself from under the blanket with newly found strength. She opened the blinds to let in the moonlight. To her surprise she saw the crescent moon sitting at the top of the night sky. IT'S MIDNIGHT?????? She screamed internally. I have to get back to the palace!She opened the bedroom door and saw Aster snoring on the couch. She hauled open the front doors and quietly pushed them close. From there she shot into the sky like the wind personally caught under her wings and set her aloft. She soured over the empire and caught the sight of lanterns in between the streets below, which was unusual to see so many at this hour. They traveled in lines and seemed to fill the streets.What's going on? Is this an attack? Her mind twisted and turned. Is it an inside attack or an outside attack? But who would attack the empire? We don’t have any enemies, right?She beat her wings harder and faster. I have to get back to the palace! She let the wind carry her higher into the clouds so she’d be hidden in the night. Oh Agdin, give me strength. She prayed. Even from afar she could see the palace was fully lit and the courtyard was full and surrounded with armored sphinxes.She waved past sphinxes in the air as she headed for the courtyard. She spotted a clearing where three sphinxes stood, they sported heavy metal armor marked with their army’s symbolsLong claws, smooth wings, and sharp eyes. She thought then realized who they were. Leon, Kuuma, and Grive!Leon stood in front of the mixed soldiers and yelled “Search the streets! Every alley, every corner! Search houses if you must! FIND HER!”“RIGHT!” The crowd yelled in unison‘Her?’ Who is her?’ She wondered. She hovered above the crowd and drew in a breath “WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS!?” She bellowed over the crowdHundreds of heads turned to her and gasped and pointed “The empress! She's here!” “Where’d she go?” “She’s safe!”They all shuffled away to make space for her to land. She let her talons hit the tiles and walked through the crowd, not waiting for them to move. She dodged tails and brushed past wings as she made her way to the clearing.There she met eyes with her heirs who all bounded up to her“Erosa! Where did you go?” Leon began“We were looking all over for you!” Kuuma cried“What happened? Were you kidnapped? Are you hurt?” Grive questionedTheir faces reeked of worry and fear as they all looked her over, trying to spot any scratches or blood.“I’m fine! Why is everyone here?” She demanded“We were looking for you!” Kuuma answered. “One of your cooks went to bring your food but couldn’t find you!”“We were all so worried!” Leon added “we searched the palace for you.”“Where were you?” Grive asked“I was with Aster on her ship all afternoon and evening.” She averted her eyes awkwardly “I didn’t mean to stay so long…”Grive narrowed his eyes. “You look… well rested?”She stood proudly “Aster offered me her bed for me to sleep in. It’s surprisingly comfortable.”A sigh of relief washed Over her heirs “as long as you're safe.” Leon imitated as he suddenly wrapped his arms around her in a hug.“Tell us when you're leaving next time!” Kuuma joined the hug“I’m happy to see you’re taking better care of yourself.” Grive whispered adding himself to the hugErosa extended her wings around her friends in an attempt to hug them all back. Maybe I can trust my friends. Bringing hundreds of Sphinxes together just to look for me the second I go missing, sphinxes like that wouldn’t kill me.“Thank you, everyone.” She cooed silently“Mmmmm I should probably call off the search then and send everyone home…” Leon admitted as everyone pulled away from the embrace.“We’ll help!” Kuuma said as her nudged Grive“Of course we will, that’s our job.” Grive said flatlyErosa walked away and went into her palace. She walked through the halls where she informed guards of her presents as she made her way to her bedroom. She unlocked the locks and re-locked them when she was inside. She crawled into her bed, pulled the covers over herself and closed her eyes.Maybe I'm really not a bad person, Just someone who’s made mistakes. It was done out of wanting justice, the exact thing many of my soldiers and, myself included, joined the army for. I guess I'll just have to answer for that in the Grand Oasis.I will bring peace and calm to the empire if it's the last thing I do (FORESHADOWING). With scheduled breaks along the way, for the sake of my sanity. Thank you Aster for helping me realize that.And with that, sleep soon took her.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Over the horizon the sun began to set across the rocky landscape. In a tent stood Erosa inspecting a leather tunic, to see if it was her size. She held it up to her chest and turned it all over, checking for damage.Tonight is the night of the attack. A neighboring gang has been causing chaos and has been threatening the Quick talon army. They’ve harmed and killed many of their soldiers over the past six months. Her and the other generals had made up a plan to take them downArrest as many as you can. She remembered from the meeting earlier that morning. She recalled the way her high general flew above the crowd with Erosa and the other general at his sides. Now that’s someone who would make a good Emperor. If that ever happens, I wonder if he’d choose me as his high general. She shook her head at the thought. I’m a low general, so probably not.She was surrounded by other soldiers doing the same thing, choosing armor. they occasionally came up to her to ask questions about armor and weapons, all of which she answered. Soon she found herself a tunic that fit and fashioned it to her chest. She picked up her personal helmet meant only for low generals and sat it on her head.She then found herself looking in a mirror that leaned on the tent wall. She puffed out her chest and ruffled her wings. She was now fully grown and looked at herself in pride. She’d come a long way from her home, where she trekked through the desert alone as a child. Now she helped man an army in the Burning Empire.She walked outside into the setting sun rays and looked around at everyone. Sphinxes who were twice her age who served the empire all their lives, others younger than her who were still in training or newly made soldiers. But out of everyone, she wanted to see someone special to her. She trotted past resting sphinxes who spoke amongst themselves, but none of them was who she was looking for.He said he was coming, where is he? She worried. Erosa sat herself on the outskirts of the Quick talons' camp and watched the sun slowly dip below the earth. She rested her head in her talons in wait for one of the other generals orders. Her eyes caught a small flock of song birds flying past, but one of the birds was much larger than the rest. They swooped down towards the land and landed a good distance away.Erosa stood and trotted over to the stranger. As she covered more ground, she shifted into a slow stride, her eyes fixed on the sphinx. When she got closer she could see that they also wore a tunic similar to her own. They're fur and feathers were copper colored, she could see that they’re skin was light as they turned to face her.Her heart nearly skipped a beat when she recognized him. She leaped into the air and soared over to him close to the ground. It's him! She squealed in her mind as she landed before him.“Amel! You came!” she cheered“Well duh! This is my army too.” he said smoothly with a smileHer gaze softened, It was so nice hearing him say that. They had been separated since they completed their training and were assigned different armies. Back then they were silly rivals trying to outdo each other and be the top of they’re class, But that had to have been almost three years ago. Amel had transferred to her army about six months ago and they’ve been talking ever since.Well it was more gossiping. With Erosa's position, it was easier to gather information from her comrades and share it with Amel. Sometimes he was around and other times not, so It really felt like it was the only time they talked when he was around, so she would scrape up as much dirt and tell it to him.Erosa loved every second they were together. He had changed since training, he was more mature and motivated. He’d become taller and stronger and dare she’d say more handsome. His words were calm and smooth like ocean waves while he always greeted people with a smile and charm. His eyes felt like the vast desert whenever she looked into them, so easy to get lost in.Oh what she would give to be with him“Why are you all the way out here?” She asked “everyone’s at base getting ready.”“Well, why are you out here?” He asked back“I was waiting for you, I wanted to make sure you had armor for the attack.” She admitted “but uh, I see you're already fitted.”“Of course! I’ll always fight by my army’s side, day or night.” He boastedErosa sat on her haunches and interlocked her talons. Yeah, the attack…“Amel, can I tell you something?” She asked, her eyes briefly meeting with his.His ears twitched “anytime. What’s on your mind?”“We’re going up against a powerful gang, and I know they’ll put up a fight.” She began “and I know there’s a chance we won’t survive, but I just want you to know that… I love you…”Amel leaned back in surprise but Erosa continued “and I just wanted you to know cuz we might not see each other again.”He stood there in silence and she could tell by the way his brow twitched that he was thinking. She held her wings close to her and squeezed her talons. But soon his face fell calm and his eyes met with hers.“Let’s make a deal,” he smiled “if we both survived this battle, I’ll be with you!” He winked then flew off towards the army camp.If I survive? That’s all I have to do? Erosa thought as her eyes followed him in the sky. That's a weird way to say it, but I’ll do it! I’ll arrest as many as I can! I’ll prove my strength! She flared her wings and soared back to camp. Night had fallen over the empire, stars dappled the ink black sky while the moon stood half full. Erosa and her group walked through the stone streets, acting as a simple patrol of cops. But it wasn’t just her group, it was the entire army doing so. When they came close, she occasionally spotted her soldiers grouping in alleys and hiding on top of houses, looking over onto the street. and they were all going to one home and they had it surrounded.None of them carried torches or spears or bows and arrows. Only the armor on their backs and ropes intended to tie down wings and wrists together. The house looked like any other in the empire, old and run down and in need a repares. But it was the house where the gang leader lived, and if we got to them maybe the whole gang would disband or at least break up into smaller, less dangerous ones. If that happend, the army would be able to safely patrol the area again and take care of things.But the houses looked empty here. Even if it was night, it wasn't unusual for some lights to be lit and sphinxes talking inside. Sometimes families made pots or clothing at night in the desert coolness. But not now. The place felt dead, like a ghost town. Maybe the residents moved out or they were really all just asleep.She went down an alley when she met the two other generals. “When do we attack?” she whispered to her high general.“On my word.” they said as they walked around her and creeped from the alley to the front door. Their group of senior soldiers hunched under the widows and ready to break them on command. Sphinxes leaped over to neighboring roofs with their eyes fixed either on the high general or the house. Others from the alleys stepped into the street ropes in their talons.The high general took in a breath but before anything could be said the door busted open knocking them to the ground. The windows broke from the inside and rained glass over the soldiers. The seemingly empty houses of sleeping sphinxes came to life as they now seemed to pore out of the windows and doors to rain an attack on the Quick talons.It all happened so fastThe once quiet street was now full of loose feathers and blood and fur as the two parties now fought. Erosa felt someone size her from behind when their talons dug into the back of her tunic. She twisted her body to throw them off and lounged at them when she turned around. Her claws dug into the flesh of their chest and she tore them to their abdomen. Blood spilled to the stone of the street as they screamed in agony. They shoved her away and took to the sky as a red ribbon fluttered in the wind on their tailBut before she could think another sphinx lounged at her but this time she dodged them. She scratched them on their side as they went by, leaving a nasty gash. they turned to face her but she scratched them across the eye. With that they turned tail and ran, but they had the same ribbon on their tail and wristIn the brief moment where no one was coming for her she winged up to a roof to escape, even just for a moment. From here she looked down at the streets below while she caught her breath. Other sphinxes did the same and they all had terror painted on their blood stained faces“No! This isn't how it was meant to go!” she yelled to herself. she watched as her soldiers got thrown off their feet and attacked. Her eyes caught two sphinxes charging towards each other and stop. W-why'd they stop? She wondered as she watched them look at each others ribbons and run past each other to attack someone elseShe gasped. It’s- its the ribbons! Only the gang members have them!“Erosa!” a voice called to her. She swung around and crouched in a defense position. Her wings flared at her sides and the fan of her tail raised to make herself seem bigger. A younger sphinx wearing the same tunic as her jumped back. “What's going on? I thought we were meant to arrest them?” the sphinx begged her for an answer. They couldn't have been older than sixteen, clearly still in training.“Things aren't going to plan,” Erosa choked, “it was meant to be an ambush.” she paused “but something happened.”The little sphinx flinched as she heard someone scream from below. “Go back to the camp!” Erosa demanded “tell the others that things didn't go as planned and that we need reinforcements. Go!” They nodded vigorously and shot into the sky. She watched as they dogged fleeing sphinxes and disappeared into the night sky.That's enough standing around, they need me down there! She thought furiously. From the roof she flew down to where a soldier and a gang member grappled each other. The enemy had them pinned down and was moments away from landing a killing blow when Erosa grabbed them from the neck and pulled them upwards as she flew. Her comrade freed themself and slashed the enemy's gut. From there she let them fall to the ground and become unconscious while they bled out.While still in the air, she beat gang members out of the sky and forced them to land where soldiers attacked them. When her wings fell tired and her chest heaved she landed on a roof to catch her breath. She felt her cuts and scratches burn and bleed as she looked over the edge. She again watched as sphinxes fought and killed each other. They tumbled over bodies as they kicked and scratched.It’s a bloodbath down there. She thought. How many of us have… died? A sudden thought hit her mind. “Is Amel okay?” She mumbled aloud. She spied into the streets trying to catch his copper colored fur amongst the darkness and the movement. But she couldn't find him anywhere. After her breath was caught she soared over the battle and watched sphinxes as they killed and died, all trying to save their own lives.And there he was. On the edge of the battle, she watched as he grappled with another sphinx. But they wore the same tunic as they did. Amel pushed them to the ground and ran his claws down their throat which made them spew blood all over him and the ground“AMEL!” she screamed. Her talons hit the stone when she landed. “What are you doing? they’re on our side!”His pupils were small slits as they met with hers. His face was drenched in blood as he smiled at her, but this time it felt more manic. “Erosa! You're still here. ” he cooed, she stepped back when he stepped over the body. Something on his wrist caught the moonlight. It was like a little red flash only for a second, but she saw it. A red ribbon was tied around his wrist“No…!” she muttered as she took another step back“Yesss!” he smiled with a hiss “and now it's just you and me.”“Why are you with… them?” her voice now more hostile but still quiet.His smile fell “because of you.” he said coldly. “You think you're sooo much better than me, don't you? Oh amazing general Erosa?”“What are you talking about?” she demanded“I wanted your position. I wanted your status. I deserve it more than you!” he spat as he sat before her with his tail over his talons. “So I had to get it somewhere else!” he shrugged “and that elsewhere was in this gang, If you're too stupid to understand.”“Amel-”“You will call me Captain Amel.” he demanded as he bared his teeth“But-but what about us? We're friends!”“By the SUN, are you that fucking stupid??? I HATE you Erosa! I've always hated you even since training!” He snarled with a laugh “and the thought of me ever loving you? BLEGH!”“It was you! You told them about the attack! Now sphinxes are dying because of you!”He laughed “YOU did this! You told me, and I told them. This is your fault.” He sneeredThis is your fault.This is your fault.This is your fault.She felt her claws scratch the stone beneath her, fur stood on end and feathers fluffed. It was the exact words her mother was told before she was brutally killed by that monster. But the difference was that this all really was her fault.All Because she couldn’t keep her mouth shut.With the fury of the sun she charged at him, claws drawn, teeth gleaming. He dodged her and attempted to slice her side but she twisted away. Amel managed to dig his claws into her flank. With blood drawn she launched at him again and pushed him to the ground where they scratched at each other before he flipped Erosa off of him.She landed on her back but rolled over before he could scar her belly and slashed him on the cheek. Him and Erosa jumped back and They circled and glared at each other. “You're a horrible general.” Amel hissed. She was silent. “And a horrible fighter.” She stayed silent. “It’s a wonder how you became a general. they probably flipped a coin.”“And you weren’t on the other side.” She spoke back “and you know it.”His face contorted with anger as he lunged forward and she leaped out of the way. “I could have been! If it weren’t for you.” He spat“Couldn't imagine why you weren’t.” She spat back sarcastically. “Liar!” She finished as she lunged at him. She watched as he raised a talon to beat her with, but she raised her wing to block him and landed a punch on his unguarded jaw.“You never learn.” She hissed as he tumbled to the ground. When he shakily tried to stand, she forced him to the ground when she jumped onto his back. His wings splayed out so she rested her knees on them, he let out a strained painful groan when she did. She clamped her talons around the part of his neck that sat right below his head and squeezed.He clawed and pushed at the ground, trying to get her off with failure. “No!” He choked out “Erosa, please!” Amel begged“When you said we could be together if we survived, you intended to kill me.” she demanded an answer as she raised his head a little just to slam him back on the ground “Didn't you?”He tried to turn his head to her but failed “we can still - be together! you can join the gang- and we can rule - it together!” he offered between gasps. This time he managed to turn his head just enough to look into her watering eyes.We could have been great together… enemies turned lovers. We could've had so much, like a home just for us, away from the empire in the desert. She thought. We would’ve been free from the world, living amongst cacti and soft sand, catching hares under the blazing sun. just him and i…She blinked and let her tears fall on his back. “I'm not that stupid to fall for your bullshit again.” When she finished she squeezed on his neck harder. He thrashed under her now that he couldn't breathe. She could feel his tail thrash, and him desperately trying to free his wings and losing feathers in the process.Erosa closed her eyes as she imagined all the things they could've had. With every thought she squeezed harder and harder until-CRACKAnd like that, his tail rested, His wings fell, and his talons stopped. His head now drooped at an odd angle, His chest didn't rise or fall anymore. And all was quiet. She stood from his corpse. His eyes were stuck open, reflecting off the half moon. Tears rolled down her cheeks, every wound now felt twice as painful. She stepped away from the now stranger and flew away.Everything else was a blur. All she could remember was her flying over the fight, calling for a retreat. Her wings were tired and her eyes were foggy, she wasn't sure if it was because her injuries were worse than she thought, or if it was from the loss of so much adrenaline. But she remembered landing back at camp and everything going black. As she woke, she kneaded the cloth that made up her bed. She winced when she stretched and felt sore all over. She felt the bandages around her belly and on her shoulders. Even her wings were tired. She wasn't alone in this tent, many other sphinxes in similar bandages slept all around her, many with injuries worse than hers. She stepped over sleeping legs and tails as she made her way out.The great sun warmed her face when her talons met the hot earth. All around she saw nurses scurry around carrying herbs, medicines, and bandages. They dipped in and out of tents tending to the wounded. As she walked around she saw sphinxes mending armor with needle and thread with scraps of unrepairable tunics. In another tent, they were preparing meals that smelled of camel meat. But other than the usual work going on, it was unusually empty.That’s because everyone is probably dead. She thought as she rested in the shade of a tent. And it really is my fault. She sighed as she hung her tail over her talons. How didn’t I figure it out? Him always being away, always asking about plans, everyone we talked about dying or retiring due to injury. His eyes were unforgiving like the vast desert. Maybe I really am that stupidI’m a fool to have loved him. To have ever thought we could have had anything. His hatred was always hidden with a smile and kind words. I was his puppet that moved with every pulled string.In the midst of her sulking, she caught the quiet sound of stones moving. She looked up to see a sphinx riding a camel, full bags hung on their sides while they towered through the camp. When they stopped, its rider hoisted the bags off and began to empty them. The bags were full of tattered armor that reeked of old blood, Torn fur clung to the tares in the leather. Its rider had a much smaller bag that moved lightly like it was full of feathers.And it was full of feathers, Tail Feathers pulled from all the fallen soldiers' tails. She watched as they tied the camel to a post and trotted past Erosa. She dragged herself up despite her pain and loosely followed. She watched as they walked into a tent on the corner of the base and drew its entrance close.“Excuse me.” Erosa called from the outside. “It's me… low General Erosa.” low general, ugh. I don't even deserve the title. “May I come in?”There was a moment of silence before the strings of the tent were pulled open for her. “Come in,” he mumbled. “Please watch the feathers.”Now in the tent, she saw the sphinx. His fur was a dull, dusty brown. His eyes tired yet focused on the feathers that laid on a rug. He had small strips of paper, glue, a pencil, and a folder that said: Quick talon army information and details. He gently sifted through them and matched them together.“How many…” Erosa asked while she sat next to him“Fifty four casualties,” he answered, “possibly in counting.”“Fifty four,” she breathed, “that's about a quarter of us.”“That means one hundred and eight feathers to sort and send to families today.” he spoke while he paired two together, he flipped through the folder, wrote on the strip of paper, and glued it together “I hope I don't have to do that too.”“I've never seen you around.” she began, trying to change the topic “are you new to the Quick talons?”He shook his head “no, i'm Grive, A Sharp eye manager. I got the news of what happened earlier this morning and thought you all could use some help Getting things back in order.”“Ha, help from another army… I didn't think things could go so badly.” she admitted “oh what would Empress Eraline think? Our high general is probably at the bottom of the list now.”“Where is he anyways?” Grive asked“He might be off helping around.” Erosa picked up some feathers. “oh, I found a pair.” she said, handing it over to the other sphinx.He took them and held it up to his face “no, that's not a pair. Their bands are different colors and positions.”“They are?” she cocked her head. “They look the same to me.”He hummed a quiet laugh “that might be why you're not a Sharp eye.” he teased“But what about these two?” she reached over and gently picked up two different feathers, she felt her arms ache as she did “They look… familiar to me.”Grive took them and flipped through the folder, from the way he was positioned Erosa couldn't see the papers. She saw him stop on a page and held it up close to his face, looking back and forth between the feathers and the pages.Soon His eyes fell wide as his fur prickled, Grive slowly looked towards Erosa “you said your low general, right?” he began “and you don't know where your high general is?”She nodded “yes?”He took the other feather and began flipping through the pages again. “What about the general? Have you seen them?” his voice seemed nervous, he even looked more awake.“No I haven't. Did… something happen?” her voice shook, she asked even if she knew the answer to her questionHe Gently sat the folder on the ground and raised a talon to cover his mouth. He didn't stare at anything in particular when he said “I'm so sorry…”“Wait, no… No! It- it can't be…!” she shook her head in denial “check again! They can't be!” she demanded but it sounded more like begging at this point Grive shook his head as he handed her the papers and feathers. “It’s them.”The general’s page had a drawing of her face from the front and side in the top left corner. Her status in her army and her address alongside other information. In the bottom of the page sat a row of her tail feathers in painstaking detail. She compared the drawing and the feather together, and it was a match. She flipped to her high generals page and did the same. Both of them were a match.They’re dead, and I got them killed. She realizedshe breathed “Then that makes me… high general.”
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His shoes echoed through the empty halls of the church. In his hand he held a candle holder with matches, with the other hand over his wrist, messing with the hair that grew there. They held a poor posture as he traveled, his head low and back bent. He adored a nightshirt of a faded blue with large holes in the back sewn shut. His pants were similar but didn't seem to fit him just right. He had cut a slit in the back for his brown tail to flow through, its color matched his hair and beardClothing made for harpies, something I'm not.The sun had set over an hour ago, the only thing lighting the halls were the crystals that powered the lights. He plucked them from their holders and let them hang by their string. As he did the connecting light went out and he was encased In darkness.He walked from the hall to the main room of the building, the church hall. Smooth long wooden benches filled the warmly lit room that faced the altar. Electric torches lined the walls but gathered around his stand. the place he preached on Sundays the word of their god from the holy book. Of course it was his job as the pastor to do so“Oh pastor Yahir,” he began to himself “why had the Pope chosen you to lead our church?” He echoed the question he had heard many times before and had asked himself even moreA werewolf chosen to preach the word of god and to be placed above harpies. No wonder they asked so many times in so many ways. He thought. Rude, genuine, angry, so many angry people…He reached for the crystal for the room and as he did he looked down the hall in front of him when he spotted one of the house dogs who handle the many chores of taking care of the church who was also turning off the lights. Her hair was short and blonde, lightly curled, and ended in a harsh, lopsided cut that couldn't have been on purpose. She wore a black dress that had seen better days with a stained white apron tied around her waist. her skin was light and fair with a shorter face than he had and longer ears that lightly folded in half. Hair also covered her arms and hands in a similar way his did. Her tail crooked from an old injury stiffen in his grazeThe two looked at each other and Yahir gave her soft smile as a greeting. She did not return the favor, simply turning away and walking down the dark hall that led to her quarters with a glint of annoyance in her eyes.He sighed, yet what did he expect? He never got along with any weredogs he’d come across. All either feared him in some way or despised him. His kind was meant to bow down to the harpy race and submit to their every word.But he was specialChosen by the holy pope himself to be one of his students and to one day be a pastor or priest. His life was regarded as a miracle, blessed by the lord to bring his word to the ears of those who worshiped him. He managed to escape the life of enslavement destined for him and landed in a rank above all else. A status he holds proudly even if deep down, he hated it with every fiber of his being.KNOCKKNOCkKNOCKThe old church doors called throughout the building, cutting off his thoughts. Why is someone here so late into the night? He asked himself. Sure it was common for someone to come here seeking guidance, but now?Yahir unlocked the doors and opened them “who is it?” he asked in a soft soothing voice as he did. No one came here this late and was okay, often looking for help or in an awful mental state in desperate need of counseling. Whoever was at the door was a new face he'd never seen, he could tell even if he couldn't see their face. The second the light from inside reached their eyes they dipped their head before they could be seen properly.“Hello.” the man said in a monotone voice “may i stay the night? I can pay if need be.” a chilling breeze drifted from behind him that gave both of the men a chill. The small town Yahir preached in was a part of the high wing kingdom that settled in the hills and mountains. It was terribly cold at night.The figure that resembled a harpy was draped in a black cloak that covered them down to their feet. black gloved hands clutched two brown beaten briefcases in each hand. Each looking heavy and filled to the brim with things. His arms were wrapped in a dark cloth that left almost no skin exposed. He could see his wings shutter from the cold, hidden under the cloak.The friendly pastor smiled “come in!” he said, stepping aside to let the harpy in “don't worry about payment, the house of god is free to all.”“Thank you.” he said with a small bow. Now inside, he settled one of his cases down and gingerly rubbed his eyes, keeping his head low“Is something wrong?” the werewolf asked after locking the door.“Mmmm, it's a bit bright here. It hurts my eyes.”Yahir cocked his head. The lights in the church hall were not bright in the slightest. “Well don't worry, it's about to get much darker.” he sat his candle holder on a nearby table at lit it’s wick. He carried it over to the crystal and pulled it out its holder. Just like that, the room was dark. The only light was from the moonlight leaking through the windows and the candle he held.“Is this better?” he asked. He winced at his words. What dumb thing to say. now expecting to be told that it was too dark now and how stupid he was for thinking this could be better.“This is so much better.” the stranger answered, relieved“Oh, okay.” he mumbled, somewhat surprised. “Well just follow the candle light and I'll show you to your room.” he spoke as he began to walk.The two ambled through the halls together, the sound of their shoes filling the silence. “So, what brings you here, mr…?” Yahir asked, trailing off at the end“My name is Fane. I'm a traveling doctor.” Fane said in the same flat voice as before“Ooohh, a doctor, we need one of those!” he chipped “we’ve recently lost ours (bless his soul) and his successor is struggling with the workload. Do you think you could help with that?” he pleaded“That's my job, I treat the sick and heal the wounded.” he stated like it was obvious. “If they need a doctor, I'll be there.”“Oh thank you! She’ll be so happy when I tell her.” his tail lightly waggedThey walked up the stairs where they came to the bedrooms that lined the halls, three on each side. “This side is where the nuns sleep, and that's the bathroom” Yahir gestured the candle to the left then middle, then walked over to a door on the right “this is my room right here.” he opened the door to show inside, the light of a lamp that had been left on made Fane shy away. “Sorry!” he apologized meekly "And uh, this can be your room.” he opened a door next to his room with a loud creak. The only light coming from the window at the end of the space and the flame. You could see the outline of a bed that had been neatly tucked in, that hadn't been touched in years. On the other side of the room stood a desk and chair that had to of had a layer of dust caked over it. A lamp sat in the corner of the desk that had not been touched in who knows how long.“We haven't used this room in a long time, so the lights might not work that well” he admitted “and Sorry for the dust…”“This is perfect.” There wasn't a single hint of sarcasm in the harpies voice as they set their bags next to the desk. “You're incredibly kind, sir.”He felt his face flush at the compliment “please, call me Yahir or father if you’d like.” he offered“But… you're not my father?” Fane questionedHe laughed. “Then Yahir will do just fine.” the werewolf began closing the door “Good night doctor.”The door closed with a click and Yahir went over to his room and closed the door behind him too. His room had the same layout as the last with the exception of a dresser next to the door and a mirror next to the desk that was turned to the wall so his reflection couldnt be seen. The curtains to the window were drawn in with a small radio on it's ledge. He blew out his candle and set it and its holder on the desk that was full of many other thingsHe got on his knees in front of his bed and pulled out a crate that was tucked in the far corner. Inside were journals of varying sizes, colors, and were and tare. He pulled out a brown leather book that had a pen fastened to its cover. He sat on the bed with it and opened it to the latest empty page.September 28, 6089Nothing too notable happened during the day worth writing down. However while turning off the lights before bed, a man came in search of a place to stay. He said his name was Fane, I've never met a harpy with a name like that before. He covered himself head to toe in black cloth and clothing including his wings, how mysterious!It was very cold tonight where even his wings shook. I've always thought feathers kept them safe from wind chill, but I guess I'm wrong. But what was even odder was the way he was sensitive to light. He said the church hall lights were too bright and hurt. I never thought a doctor could have such eye problems, especially someone as young as him, having to be around my age.He's also agreed to help our doctor, Harly, in her endeavors. How kind of him! I hope he stays over the incoming winter. He has to be the kindest harpy i've ever met, what an interesting character.With that, he closed the journal and slipped it back into the crate, and pushed it back under the bed into its corner. He turned off the lamp and slipped under the covers into sleep. The new morning sun lit his room through the curtains, morning birds sang their songs, and the nuns and house dogs walked the halls. Yahir rose from his bed and grabbed a brush off his shelf and fixed his hair and beard. He went to his dresser and pulled out his vestment (church uniform) and put it on with his shoes. He turned the mirror around so he could assess himself, was his hair too long? Was his collar crooked? Did he have anything on his face? When all the answers were “no” he breathed a sigh of relief. He fixed his bed and folded his night clothes over it.He stepped from his room into the busy hall, there was a line for the bathroom where the nuns waited and chatted amongst themselves, they wore black robes and veils with a white lining on the inside. Their feathered wings of varying colors and sizes steamed from their backs. Sometimes Yahir thought about what kind of wings he'd had if if he was born as the other raceHe glanced over to the neighboring room where the guest hadn’t come out yet. Oh he must be hungry! Yahir thought. I’ll bring him something.With that, he went down the stairs to the kitchen. The smell of pancakes, diced fruit, and syrup drifted in the air as the weredogs worked.“Good morning everyone!” Yahir smiled. Everything stop for a second, the sound of knives hitting cutting boards, whisks in bowls, and spatulas on pans all stopped at once“Morning father…” the dogs said less enthusiastically as they continued their work. Some rolled their eyes while others didn’t bother to even look at him.“If you don’t mind, I’ll be helping in the kitchen this morning.” He announced while rolling up the sleeves of his uniform.“Mix this father” a dog almost immediately gave him a bowl of batter before he could finish his sentence.Then, he baked in the kitchen along with his workers. Well, slaves was a more proper name for them. House dogs brought by the previous pastor, their ownership was now in Yahir's name after his death. He never liked the thought of owning another person or being the one who was meant to punish them when they misbehaved, for he knew how it felt to be on the other end of the whip. Of course no one is born a pastor after all.After his birth, he was brought to an orphanage where he was raised to be a house dog. He grew up and learned from the older dogs, he was taught to cook and clean and to serve the harpy chicks and their caretakers. Yes those years were tough and other times harsh, but sometimes he thought fondly of those daysThe dogs were like the pack he never had, and he was their omega, their kin, their child. They cared for and protected each other, no matter what. He hadn’t felt that way in years after the incident… but he knew that these house dogs felt the same way about each other.He wished he could be a part of their conversations or games. And he’d try, yet was always shunned away, Because they were weredogs and he was a werewolf. He nor his ancestors went through what they had over thousands of years that shaped their features away from his.He was free and they were not. They lived in the basement together while he got his own room. They nealed for others while others nealed for him. They were not the same yet they were treated the same, because they both served harpies in body and soul.Soon the pancakes were done, decorated with blueberries and strawberries and drizzled in syrup. Small wooden forks sat on the side next to some seared sausage. With two plates in hand and a thank you to the dogs, he stepped from the kitchen and walked past the dining room.“Really Yahir? Two plates?” a nun called from a table while a dog served her. “I thought the full moon was last week.” the other nun stifled their laughs“Good morning, sister Anne.” he hummed, “and no, this plate isn't for me. We had a guest come last night, I'm just bringing him breakfast.”“Ugh, please tell me you didn't make him stay in that dusty old room.” anne begged“Well, the other one is for storage… we didn't have anywhere else.” he noted“You could have given him your room. My goodness Yahir, did they not teach you how to be a gentleman in that school?”“But he said he liked the room I gave him…” his head dipped as he mumbled “he even thanked me for it.”“Obviously just desperate for a place to stay.” another nun said between chewing“And he’ll be staying for a while.” he announced “he’s a traveling doctor who's agreed to help doctor Harly in her work.”“Finally! She's been floundering out there.” “ Ohh let us pray he is better than her!” “Maybe he’ll teach her a thing or two.” The nuns spoke over each other, so the werewolf used this moment to slip away.He skipped up the stairs to the bedrooms where the guest room stayed closed. I wonder if he'd let me eat with him? He must have stories of his travels, ooooo id love to hear them! He carefully placed the plates in two hands and knocked on the door.“Good morning, Fane! Are you up, I've brought you breakfast?” he called through the door“Come in, and close the door behind you.” Fane replied coollyYahir twisted the nob and stepped into the old room, closing the door behind him. He sat the full plate on the dusty table. “Thanks for letting me in, the dogs made pancakes today.” the room was awfully dark, he saw that Fane had put his cloak over the window to block out most of the light. Now he wasn't wasn't casted in the cloak and he could see him perfectlyAnd there he wasHis skin was white like milk, sickly pale, like every ounce of blood had been drained from his flesh. His now unwrapped arms bore not a single feather or down and ended with thin slender fingers with long pointed nails that hovered over an opened briefcase full of vials and syringes and bandages. Their eyes met and he could see that they were a shade of reddish purple adorning deep red pupils with a straight thin pointed nose between. a lock of white hair sprung from his Neatly kept hair that grew from his scalp in a deep shade of black that matched its naked wings. They were like bats, a hooked thumb extended from its peak that led down to its horrifyingly long black webbed fingers.Yahir didn't know if to scream or run or to say a prayer so he stood there stiff like an old tree that shook in the wind. By god, he’s not a harpy at all…He’s a vampire.he stared at him like it was dissecting his face. He wore a puzzled expression as he said “you're not a weredog…you're different.” Fane slipped a vial into its holder “what are you?” the vampires word were of genuent curiosity as its tall pointed ears listened for an answerAfter a pause he spoke “a- a we- werewolf…” he stammered. He held his plate with two hands to try to steady it so its goods didn't stumble to the floor.“Fascinating! I’ve never met your race before.” he grabbed a textbook from the floor and began flipping through its pages “Yahir the werewolf…” he mumbled to himself, now slowly turning the pages associated with his kind.He couldn't ever wrap around the fact that the vampire had made his way into the house of god, and the fact that he was the one to let him in. They were demonic creatures spawned from the depths of yerth in the shadow of the harpies’ light. Cursed to burn in the sun's gaze and to live in the dark caverns of the earth. To suck the life out of others to lengthen their own to infinite lengths, to even take it from their own kind. The only thing worse than werewolves in gods latter“Are there any more of you here?” its words broke him from his thoughts “you don't seem to match the descriptions here.” Fane pointed to a diagram.“Are you going to kill us..?” Yahir asked, ignoring the question “and take our blood?” he worriedThe vampire stared at him with a ‘be so fucking fr’ expression “No.” his single word blunt. “You'd be surprised how many people ask that. The last thing I'd want to do is bite you OR kill you.” he closed the book “i serves no benefit to anyone.”“Then why come to the house of god if not to bring harm?” he tried to sound strong but his voice shook“I needed a place to stay and I’ve heard that its occupants can be quite generous.” He looked to the plate on the table and back to Yahir “and thank you, it looks delicious.”He rose from the floor and neatly tucked his wings behind his back as he brought the pancakes to his nose “does this contain any form of onion? Specifically garlic? It's horribly toxic to me.”“No, it's just pancakes and fruit.” he whisperedHe picked a slice and placed it in his mouth. He made a long humm of delight as he appeared to melt from its taste. “It's as good as it looks… I haven't eaten anything like this in so long. ”This was all so new. He'd never thought he’d come across such a thing, or to see that they were just a… normal guy. Not just that, but someone nice, polite, and more unafraid than anyone of him he’d met in years. And for it to come from a vampire of all things.Even if he was no better than a demon, they might as well be on the same level in God's eyes. And he'd like to get to know the man who was meant to save lives for the next few months. Deep down, it was his decision if he could stay, He could say he was an unlikely gift from god. Butno matter what he was to say, he wasn't going to pass up on someone willing to talk with him.So he spoke through his fear. “You're very welcome… um, do you mind if i join you?” Yahir gestured to to the bed“I don't mind at all.” he mumbled with a full mouth, then turned the chair to face the bed.The werewolf sat on the stiff sheets and kicked up dust in the air that made him wheeze. “So- how long- have you- been a doctor?” he said between coughs“I’ve been one for the past thirty years” Fane took another bite“Thirty? But you look no older than me!” he gasped“Well I am eighty now, so it's a reasonable time span.”Yahir did a double take, his eyes wide “Eighty???? What? But you look so young??”“Vampires age differently from other races. So if I convert my age to the lifespan of others, I'd be…” he paused to do the math “around twenty six, give or take a few years or months.”“Even then, you'd still be a year older than me.” he hummed a laugh“How long have you been here? Is this place your home?” he asked after he swallowed“I came here about three years ago from the high wing capital. And after the death of the previous pastor, I was sent here to replace him. So I kinda own the place now.” Yahir shrugged, “and I'm thankful for the privilege.” He felt the need to add that “and you?”“I've been traveling for the past three years and I'm from the red eye nation, up north near the red lake.” he looked a bit distant as he spoke. “That was my home.”Though the red eye nation held the second smallest territory, only second to the black wing nation, it was the home to the red eye cave entrance. It was the largest cave system in the land where most of the vampires lived.“Was?” Yahir asked through a full mouth “what happened?”The vampire’s wings fell from their comfortable position “nothing happened.” his eyes didn't meet his “I just don't live there any more.”He had to admit that it was nice having the vampire take his eyes off him for a moment. It felt like he was staring into his soul the whole time.“Yes, because you wanted to travel the world, right?” He knew the vampire wasn't telling the full truth, but purposely changed the topic in his favor. “It must’ve been cramped living in a cave with so many other people.”Fane shook his head “yes, but no. It never felt like that. It was warm, and you were never alone. Not ever...”“…I miss my home too.” He admitted in a hushed voice.They ate in awkward silence after that. Only when their forks scraped their empty plates did Yahir speak. “Uh, thank you for speaking with me. It was nice to meet you.” he stood“Likewise.” Fane nodded“I must go off and follow my duties now, but I recommend you not leave this room unless for the bathroom.” he began “you'll scare anyone half to death, uh, no offense!”“None taken, I have my books to look over.” he gestured to some small textbooks stacked on the floor next to the briefcase “I rather work at night anyways, The sun gets in my eyes.”“Then I'll leave you to it, I'll be back in the afternoon to bring you lunch, then dinner.” The werewolf took the plate from him. “You just get settled in.” he went out the door and was about to close it when he turned back “may i ask, do you really not mind the dust? If you do, I don't mind cleaning up the place.”“Caves are dustier than you might think. It's nothing new to me.”“Of course, see you soon. byeeeeee!” With that, Yahir creaked the door shut and breathed a sigh of relief.
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From his window a chilling breeze whisked through his hair, which he had more of lately. He rose from his bed to shut the autumn air out. He had meant to go to sleep not long ago, but he knew sleep was far from him.He stayed by the window and gazed at the sky painted with clouds and the distant peak of tall stone. The waxing moon stood in the sky, it’s moonlight gingerly lit his room just enough to see his hands.The hair that grew there had grown thicker. His hair (and everywhere else) on his head had grown long and shabby like his beard. His body had changed, his limbs felt bigger and stronger, and he ached all over. By now he’s had to have grown a few inches, telling by the way his clothes fit on him.His stomach growled, all this new growth didn’t come from nowhere. He thought of sandwiches and chicken and fruit and pork and steak and lamb fish mutton. He craved meat so badly, he felt empty without it. Fane had said protein was essential for muscle growth so he guessed that’s what I was.Tomorrow was a full moon. They came every month at the same time just to mess up his life. A long sigh escaped his lips as he closed his eyes.Knock knock“Yahir, are you awake?” Fane called from outside. It sounded more like a sentence than a question“What do you want Fane?” His words came out harsher that he intended“I’ve noticed that you’ve looked odd today. Are you ill?”“No. Just… not feeling myself today.” He put his eyes back to the moon. “I know you have work to do tonight, with all your patients. You should go do that.”“I’ve looked over my schedule today, it’s quite empty. I have more than enough time to look you over for anything.”Fane can never take a hint. he grumbled in his mind“The town folk need you more. I’m fine.” He protestedThere was silence for a moment long enough for Yahir to think that he had left, but he hadn’t“Please, let me see you.” He begged, full of more emotion than he’d ever heard before “You’ve been quieter than usual and you’ve been in and out of the kitchen.” There was fear in his voice “Your back is more arched and your hair seems to have grown longer than you’d like it.”“You would tell me if you were sick, right?” Fane continued “if you are I can heal you, I can!”“no! I’m- I’m not sick, really!” Yahir assured him. He’d never thought he’d be so worried about him.“Then what is wrong with you?” The vampire pressed“I-I’m…” Yahir sighed “just- I’ll let you in.”He slumped over to the door and twisted the knob. Their eyes met with shocked faces, Yahir realizing that he was a bit taller than the man, and Fane seeing up close how he had changed.The now shorter man's mouth opened and closed, revealing his pointed teeth as he tried to find his words.“come In” Yahir gestures with his hands as he stepped asideFane obeyed and stepped in leaving his briefcase next to his bed. “What… happened to you?” His reddish eyes looked into his “like your face, or your arms, or… all of you?”Yahir sat on his bed. “Tomorrow is a full moon, so my transformation has begun.” He explained “had your books not spoken about it?”“They had.” His words trailed off as the gears turned in his head. “That’s why you’ve been acting so weird isn’t it? Your growth, behavioral changes, and different eating habits.”Yahir nodded but he didn’t like how he had called him weird, it was a label used for him that he never liked. Or the way his eyes looked him over like he was a deformed calf.“Hmmmm, one moment.” Fane said as he walked out the room and returned with a textbook. He pulled out a chair from the desk and flipped through the pages, he mumbled to himself as he quickly read. “Here! Right here, it states nothing about being introverted or reclusive. In fact, it states the opposite! You're meant to be more outgoing and bold. ”“I am?” He thought about the weredogs and how they toyed with each other around this time. They changed the way he does, though less dramatically with him being with a wild lineage.“Yes, but why is that?” He asked him thinking he’d know the answer“Because its wrong.” He said firmly with a hint of anger. “It’s no better than a curse.”Fane tucked his wings back when he sat up. “What? Is it not natural?” He questioned “according to the book, it is an essential part of a werecanines life. Crucial for reproduc-““I know!” The werewolf cut him off, his face a bit flush “you have to don’t remind me.”“Then what’s wrong with it?”“It’s sinful.” He wrung his pants leg as he spoke “I shouldn’t look this way! I don’t want my face and body to deform and changed every month. I shouldn’t ever feel those… horrible feelings.”“It’s a curse brought to my kind by the moon since the dawn of time.” He continued “We are the representation of the sin of lust and it must be paid for every month when the moon is fullest.”Whoa, he didn’t think he’d say all that. Those were words meant for his journals, not his lips.After his speech he looked to the vampire who had a bewildered expression. “Dripping stones, Yahir. Is that what that book tells you?” He gestured to the book of sol on the desk“It’s true” he confirmed “chapter 16 through 20”Fane’s pale brow wrinkled “that’s stupid.” He spat “it’s a simple biological function that was Given to your kind by the sun and moon. Why would the moon make you pay for something he gave you?”Yahir looked at him with a staggered expression. He’d never thought of it like that, why would the moon do that?“Be-because that’s what happened! I don’t know why, but that’s how it is. Who am I to question their divine power?” He asked defensively. It wasn’t unlike Fane to question his religion but it hadn’t made him so angry before“I don’t know.” He shrugged “but I don’t think it’s something you should be ashamed of. No matter what the reason is, it’s only natural.”“But it’s not just me who hates it. It’s everyone else too.” His voice cracked “the harpies and dogs always look at me weird now. I hate it.”His ears fell as he began “they both avoid me and talk about me behind their back.”“they always do that.” Fane said flatly“Er, well, they do. But now it’s even worse!” He felt his face and looked down to his other hand. “It’s not my fault I turn into a monster!”“You're not a monster.” The vampire’s eyes narrowed“Well I feel like one…” he mutteredFane stood “you’re not.” He echoed “you’re nowhere near a monster.”Fane rested his hand on yahirs shoulder “you're a good man. It’s a shame no one can see it.” There was a new sternness in his voice. They gazed into each other’s eyes, they seemed to do that a lot. But I didn’t truly feel like fane was talking to himHe had never touched him before. He didn’t expect his hand to be so cold. I felt nice against his growing muscles, like an ice pack. He didn’t mind if it lingered there for a while.Soon Fane pulled it away, embarrassed “excuse me, it’s just that you're quite warm.” He then felt his forehead “you’re not feverish, are you?”“Don’t worry, I must admit it felt nice.” Yahir assured as he gently pulled his hand away “and I feel fine. Well, mostly fine.”“So something is wrong?” His eyes widened and reached for his book “let me guess, you're hungry?”“Kinda, but not what I was thinking of”“Tired?“That’s an easy fix, but no.”Sore?”“Yes, that one.” The werewolf pointed out“Ah, I see. I have something perfect for that.” Fane went to his bag and opened it up. His finger tips ran over vials of powders, pills, and liquids. They landed on a vile of brown pills “please rate your pain 1-10. One being barely noticeable, ten being excruciating.”He fiddled with the cuffs of his nightshirt “uhh, I guess a four or three?”Fane unscrewed the viles top and dumped a single pill in his hand, then handed them to Yahir “swallow, don’t chew.”“What’s this?”“Ibuprofen, a simple painkiller. If your pain still persists, come to me for more.”“Thank you. How much is this?”“For you, it’s free.” He closed his case “I’m not putting a price tag on a single pill. It’s nothing to me.”He swallowed the pill and thanked him again. “Don’t thank me, I’m just doing my job.” Fane responded
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Yahir sat in the confessional booth half awake. His head leaned on its walls, waiting for someone to come to him. Would it be that farmer who was cheating on his wife? A common thief looking for forgiveness? Or a child sent to him as a punishment?Next to him on his seat were journals dedicated to such ongoing stories who seemed to get messier and messier every time they had come. Had the farmer got his mistress pregnant? Had they stolen something irreplaceable? Or had that child gotten into a fight?There wasn’t going to be an answer until one of them would come into the booth to confess.Yahir had always been on the receiving end, hearing complaints on end for hours. What was it like on the other side? How did it feel to pour your heart out to someone on the weak promise of secrecy? How good did it feel if people kept coming back over and over again?He sighed, for he knew he wouldn’t ever be on the other side. That’s why he had so many journals, they were the only ones to listen to his words and to remember every detail. And it was also his job to listen and offer advice, never the other way around.Who knows what would happen if he stopped. How many lives would fall apart due to his negligence? How would his life fall apart? His position as the town's pastor was the only thing saving him from a life of slavery, if not death. So he had to listen for his own sake.He was jolted awake when he heard someone open the other door and step in. “Oh! Uh, hello. Child of the sun, what is weighing on your soul today?” He greeted“Hello, father.” A familiar feminine voice said behind the mesh window that blocked his view. It was doctor Harly on the other side “I’ve come to confess.”“My ears are open for all.”“I fear that the vampire has not shown to work for the past two days. And I am beginning to feel the weight he had lifted off of me again.” Harly confessed. “Is it wrong to be dependent on a demonic creature like him? And is it wrong to allow it?”“Of course not. He might be of great help in your endeavors, like the wind that lifts your wings, but you are still above him in the eyes of the sun.” He assured “count this as a trial, you mustn’t become dependent on him. For when he leaves, he’d take the good health from everyone with him.”“Yes of course. it’s just, I hadn’t been able to finish my training before the death of my predecessor.” She sighed “I fear I’m not adapted to care for the townsfolk.”“Just because you're not ready now, does not mean you will never be.” He cooed “in fact, did you know doctor Fane has multiple books on medical knowledge?”“Yes, I do.” She answered “but I’ve never read them for myself.”“Maybe I can convince him to let you borrow one! And see why he hasn’t been showing to work.”“That sounds good, I’ll be at my office waiting.” And like that she opened the door and leftNot even a thank you.He opened the door with all his journals in hand and moved through the church. Why hasn’t Fane shown up at the doctors office? It’s not like him to just not show up. Oh I hope he hasn’t gotten himself sick!It was winter after all, they were in the mists of December. The leaves had all fallen and the crops harvested. Living on a mountain didn’t help at all with the chilling wind. It had snowed three days ago, it was a light flurry. Yahir remembered watching the little flakes fall down that night before bed.First he dropped of his books in the crate under his bed, then went over to the neighboring room.Knock knock knock“Fane? Are you in there?” He said “I want to speak with you.”He was met with silence“I’m coming in, alright?”More silenceHe turned the knob welcoming himself in. The room was dark with Fane’s cloak over the window. His bags laid open, clothing spilled messy over the floor and medicines on the table.He laid in his bed under his blankets facing the wall. When Yahir came near he could see that he had his wings wrapped around himself, staring at the wall.“Fane?” he gently placed his hand on his shoulder as he whispered. “Are you awake?”“Yes.” he said without looking at him“Are you feeling alright? Doctor Harly said you haven't come in for the past two days.”“I don't want to go out.” he mumbled “its freezing.”Yahir sat on the bed and fixed his uniform “do you not have a jacket? If you'd like, I could let you borrow mine.”“I'm not going out.” he grumbled “I don't want to do anything.”Something is wrong, he’s never been like this. He usually wants to go to work. Even when he is home, he's reading, studying, or is trying to talk to others. He thought. You know, he has been acting off lately. I haven't seen him around as much and we haven't spoken since about two days ago. What's with the change?“Fane, what's wrong?” Yahir asked, his voice calming.“I hate this time of year. There was nothing like this back home.” He grumbled“Back when you lived in the red eye cave?”“We didn’t have to think about weather or climate. It was warm and humid all year long.”“And you miss that?” He hoped it didn’t come off as rude but he couldn’t imagine living in a place like that. He liked the airy-ness of the mountains“I think of it every day. I miss everything about it.” He sighed “the food, the culture, the people… my people.”He leaned in “you had a family?”He shook his head “I had a friend group, And there were 5 of us. They were my everything.”“It sounds like a wonderful place.” Yahir pictured it in his mind. Vampires flying with each other in flocks, dodging stalagmites in pitch darkness. All with briefcases and black clothing. It’s funny how he imagined them all looking like Fane. “But why’d you leave? It sounds like you loved it!”He pulled his wings around himself tighter “I was forced to leave. I’d never leave a haven like that on my own.”“Oh dear, what happened?”Fane’s eyes widened as they were full of confliction. “It was the worst thing a vampire could do…” he looked towards him for the first time since he’d come “I’ll only tell if you can keep a secret.” He whispered“You can trust me” he whispered back with a smile “i'm in charge of a lot of secrets”There was a moment before the vampire said “I killed a man.” His voice cracked “it was a mistake I swear! It was a long day and I was tired and wanted to go home. Then he came in. I should have paid more attention to him…”Yahir was taken aback but still spoke “how… how did he…?”“It was a misdiagnosis. He went under the wrong treatment and it… it killed him.” He drew his legs to his chest “they tracked it back to me, and I was arrested. In court they ruled that I was to be exiled from the cave indefinitely.”“I had to leave all my friends behind.” He shook his head to himself, voice meek. “Now I’m stuck out here.”Yahir didn’t know what to say, So things were quiet between them. What was he meant to say? ‘Don’t worry! It’s not that bad!’ Or ‘you're not welcomed here! Get out!’ Or maybe something else?Yahir chuckled “Is it wrong to know how you feel?”“What?”“Being forced to leave home? Leaving everyone behind? Being stuck where you are? I know exactly how you feel.”“Elaborate.”“Only if you can keep a secret. And I mean it.” He did mean it, who knows what could happen if someone found out what he thought of this placeFane sat up and put his wings behind his back “I promise.”“Well then, you know I wasn’t born a pastor, right?” Yahir began “and I wasn’t born here either.”“Where are you from?”“I don’t know exactly where I was born, but I was raised in an orphanage as a house dog. I spent ten years there working with the other dogs. We were like a family, working and protecting each other. Until the… incident.”“What was the incident? Did you…?” Fane trailed off“No, I didn’t, but do you know what Hippins disease is?”“Yes! It’s a horrible virus that infects children. It’s Extremely fatal. There’s a whole page about it in my textbook.”“My orphanage was infected with it. Every child got sick… including me. But out of everyone there, I was the only one to survive.”“The only one?” The vampire's face was shocked “you're so lucky!”Yahir sighed “that’s what everyone thought. There were papers about me all through the kingdom, they all called it a miracle. Soon the POPE of all people saw it! And he thought I was a gift from the lord and was meant for great things.”He continued “so he came to me personally, offering me a room in his chapple so I could learn the way of the sun and bring her messages to us mortals. I wasn’t sure, but my family and everyone else said I should, and so I did.”He still spoke “it had to have been some of the worst years of my life. Of course I was the only werecanine there so I was already an outcast. Then when I grew older we all found out I was a werewolf which made things worse, And then everyone hated me soooo much.” He began to ramble“BUT then! Then I was sent here to this little town! I was thinking that things would get better in a new place with a church of my own. Maybe I could have friends and so many wonderful things!” The werewolf slumped “But I didn’t get any of that… it’s… horrible here.”“Everyone is so awful, it’s no better than the chapple. They expect me to do so much, like all the events, fixing all their problems, and helping everyone at once! Then they exclude me from everything, it’s like I’m not supposed to exist around them.” Yahir snarled “And it’s like I did something wrong but I’m nothing but kind and understanding and welcoming! I just fffffff-FUCKING hate it here!!!” He snappedHe clasped his hands over his mouth, horrified at his words “I-! I didn’t mean to say all that…”“Wow, I didn’t expect that from you…”He dipped his head “I’m sorry, I know I’m not supposed to use that kind of language in the house of god, or ever.”Fane sat himself next to Yahir so that they would be side by side as he said “But why do you stay if you hate it here? Can’t you just leave?”“I can’t.” Yahir shrugged “I mean I can, but I can’t?”“That was a horrible explanation.” Fane said bluntly“Uh basically, my position as pastor is the only way I can live a good life. Without this job the only thing I would become is a slave like a weredog. But I don’t think I’d make a good slave so I’d probably be killed instead.” He sighed “so this is all I can be. either dead or alive.”“Either dead or alive.” The vampire echoed “I thought the same thing when I was exiled.”“Oh?”“There’s a good reason why no one sees vampires outside their caves.”“And what’s that?”“We kill our selves. We’re not meant to be outside, we’re not made for it.” He gestured towards the window “we’re separated from our friends and forced to live in an alien world where everyone hates and or fears us.”“Not to be rude” Yahir waved his hands “but what stopped you?”“I thought that I would either kill my self too, or do something else. Out here, I realized that the other races were not as advanced as vampires. We would consider your medical knowledge a bit… primitive.”He continued “so I wanted to make up for what I had done. So why not spend the next two hundred years of my life saving lives?”“To make up for the one you didn’t.” Yahir addedFane nodded solemnly. “But I'm horrible.” He choked “I'm meant to be out saving lives but instead I’ve stuck myself in this room. And for what? Because it’s chilly out?”“You're not horrible.” He rested his hand on his shoulder “it can feel a bit depressing around this time of year.”“Is that what it is? I feel this way every winter.” He crossed his arms “It feels like I can’t do anything anymore. Like I’m completely alone and everything is wrong.”“But you're not alone.” He urged “if you’d like, you could come talk to me about anything.”“I can?” Fane liked to him, his eyes pleading“Of course! You can come to me anytime.”Out of nowhere he was pulled into a hug. His cold arms wrapped around his back tightly as he extended his ebony wings around him. His pale face pressed between his neck and shoulder, sending a chill down his spine.Yahir hadn’t been hugged in years so it had completely taken him by surprise. Despite the chilling embrace, he reciprocated by wrapping his arms around the other's abdomen due to his wings being in the way.They sat like that for a while, He didn’t want to let go. “Thank you,” the vampire whispered “it’s been so long since I’ve had someone I could actually talk to.”“Me too.” Yahir said, leaning into the hug. Is this how it feels on the other side? To share with a layer of trust? Having Someone who actually listens is just …amazing.
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Mightyclaws’s eyes snapped open and gasped when he woke. His bony chest heaved as his mind whirled.It was just a nightmare. It was just a nightmare. It was just a nightmare. He thought to himself. It’s not real, none of it is!It was only the second night in the Jade academy and he was already having nightmares. All these different dragons in the same place was a terrible idea. Ever since he got the news that he was coming here, he’s been having nightmares.Always something about the rainwings injecting their venom into his vains, and watching him dissolve from the inside out. Or seawings drowning him or being dropped into a mud pit by a mudwing or being roasted by a skywingIt used to be about drowning in lava or suffocating in smoke or the Darkstalker killing him in a hundreds of different ways.But mostly about starving. Back on the island it was all he could think about sometimes. Was he going to eat tomorrow or at all this week? What if he starved before they took over the rainforest?It was terrifying because it was possible. He’s seen young dragonets get sick and starve to death. He always worried what would happen next if they ate all the food on the island. How long would he last? Would dragons turn to cannibalism? Who would he have to eat?Actually he had a nightmare about that last week. And he was the one to be eaten.I need to clear my mind. Mightyclaws thought. I guess I could go for a late night snack. But I already ate a few hours ago.He tapped his claws on stone flour but quietly enough to not wake his wing mates. No one will know. I’ll be quick, maybe a banana or two… or three.He rose from his bed and snuck into the halls recalling his classes on how to sneak around undetected. He stuck to the shadows avoiding the glowing glass lights above.The smell of the prey center reeked of so many things. Cow, chicken, oranges, fish, and so many other things. First he went to the pile of fruit and picked and peeled a banana, then another, and another.Mmmm that was delicious! Oh, what’s this? It was a half eaten pineapple and papaya he had spotted. Lazy rainwings! They can’t even finish what they started! He rolled his eyes. Might as well finish them off so they don’t go to waste.After that he wanted to go back to bed but then he saw a discarded chicken leg, and ate that too. Then some beef scraps then a pig ear then a sheep’s tail. Okay NOW I’m full.Then something caught his nose. It smelled wet and soggy like fish, well because It was fish. There was a pile of fish just sitting next to the river untouched. It looked all slimy and gross after sitting there all day.But he wanted it, bad. He was already really full and just wanted to go to bed, but I felt like it was calling him over. No nightwing would ever eat seawing slop. Have some decency Mightyclaws! He told himself. But one bite couldn’t hurt, right?He picked one up by the tail and his snout wrinkled at the smell. What am I doing? What if someone saw me?The soft meat squelched as his teeth snuck into it. He wanted to stop then and there but he kept going. He picked the bones from his mouth and scales from between his teeth.One fishtwo fishthree fishfour fishIt felt like he couldn’t stop And It felt sooooo goood. Like all his thoughts about the island, Darkstalker, other dragon tribes, or anything else he’d ever worried about didn’t exist right now.After the last fish he ate whatever scraps he could find. His belly felt like it could burst but he kept going. He filled his mouth with whatever he could get his hands on until-“Mightyclaws?” The voice was deep and heavy. His head spun around to see them. Clay was standing in the doorway staring at him from across the room. The little nightwing stood there petrified that he'd been caught.“Why are you up so late?” The mudwing walked towards him with his limp then laughed “guess you wanted a late night snack too, huh?”He thought back to the many lessons he listened to and studied on how to lie. “yes.” he answered, “I was just going to get a banana and go back to sleep.” ugh, why do i feel so queasy?“Me too, i was planning on a chicken leg or an orange.” clay looked around “i don't remember it being such a mess in here, well more than usual. I thought the seawings cleaned up after themselves yesterday.” he poked at the discarded fish bones Mightyclaws had left.He felt his overfilled stomach churn. “Ugh, who could ever eat fish?” me apparently…“Don't say things like that.” clay scolded. “Some tribes like to eat different foods. Maybe you should try it sometime.”“Im good…” he replied, as he walked over the fruit pile. Commit to the lie, eat a banana and go. No matter how sick you feel. He plucked a banana from a bunch and began to peel it. It felt like his stomach was rising to his throat when he did. He took a bite and forced it down then another and another.The mudwing looked over “hey Mighty Claws, you don't look so good. Are you feeling alright?”He stifled a gag “I'm fine. I'm Just tired- hic- BLEGH!” his stomach emptied its contents on the ground in front of him. It was a vile mixture of everything he had eaten earlier that day but mostly that night. Chewed up meat, crushed fruit, and a small fish head.Clay walked over and gently patted his back “er, don't worry, i can get that cleaned up for you. you want me to walk you to the infirmary?”“Im… fine.” the nightwing coughed out as he swatted him away with his wing.“Ha ha, didn't think you'd like fish.” he tried to lighten the mood.“I don't.” he spat “I don't know why I ate it, it was so gross.” Mightyclaws began to walk away to the sleeping caves but clay followed.“sooo, what had you up this late?” clay asked“... I couldn't sleep.”“Is this what you usually do? Eat till you barf, I mean.”“Has that never happened to you? you mudwings like to eat, right?”“I sure do, but I never over do it. I just stop when I'm full.” the mudwing shrugged “don't you?”“I try, but sometimes I can't.”“You can't?”Mightyclaws grumbled “it's none of your business, mudwing!”Clays brow furrowed “well if you don't want to talk to me, you can always go to Starflight.”He scoffed “like he's any better than you, he's a shell of a nightwing at most.”“I mean, he is the smartest guy here. He might be able to help you with your food problem.”“I don't have a food problem!” he snapped “now quit following me!” Mightyclaws stormed off the rest of the way to the sleeping caves.He angrily sat on his bed fuming. I don’t have a food problem. He thought. Right?He laid down so that he was facing the rocky ceiling. He ran a talon across his ribs where he could feel every bone, to his belly that felt like a soft watermelon. The other nightwings didn’t have a belly’s like his, theirs were a bit caved in instead. Had he really been eating that much?“Maybe there is something wrong with me…” he sighed softly. His stomach still hurt from before, but he still wanted to go back to the prey center. He wanted just one more fruit, maybe like a peach or a-NO. He told himself. I’ve had enough for tonight. He rolled over so he faced the wall. And I don’t need to talk to Starflight for anything. I’ll just find a scroll and It will tell me everything about… whatever this is.
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Tropical birds squaked and sung in the treetops. The midday sun shone through the brilliant green rainforest around him. Long twisting vines draped the wet branches. Orchids and fruit gave pops of color to the magnificent landscape.He wished he could fly through the trees, examining the different birds and plants. From where he was in his sand pit, there had to be at least 20 different species just begging to be dissected and experimented on. Though no matter how much he squirmed and thrashed, he could never escape this odd prison.But then he heard a sound, a different sound. He craned his head to look behind him to see who was coming. The leaves seemed to move in unnatural ways, a way too odd to describe. From the foliage emerged two nightwings with a spear in each of their talons. They held stern and cold expressions like how any proper nightwing soldier should. Between them was an uncamouflaged rainwing, how unusual!“Good evening guards! How are you doing today?” Mastermind asked putting on a smile.“We don’t speak to prisoners!” A feisty voice called from an odd spot of leaves.Mastermind, and the nightwings rolled their eyes ‘stupid rainwings…’ they thought at the same time.“Excuse me fellow nightwings,” Mastermind pleaded. “Would you please fetch me some leaves from over there? They look very intriguing and I’d love to get a closer look.”The guards stayed quiet and did not fulfill his request, instead they ushered in the odd rainwing into the sand pit and watched him until his forelegs had sunken in besides him.The rainwing was a pale greenish yellow that didn’t shift colors like the other dragons of his tribe. He looked tired with sleepless bags under his angry eyes. But what really caught the nightwings attention was the crooked snout on his face. It looked like it had snapped in half and healed completely wrong, just another example of how incapable rainwings are. If he had a nightwing doctor look at it, you wouldn’t even be able to tell anything had happened. While still on the topic of his fucked up snout, there was an enelactic band tied around his mouth just loose enough so that he could still speak and eat, but not enough to use his venom.Soon after, the guards and the rainwings left the two new prisoners alone together. “So what’s your name?” Masterminded askedThe rainwing looked towards him without moving his head “Chameleon.” He said dryly“I’m Mastermind, the renowned nightwing scientist.” He raised his head so that he appeared taller and more regal. Though Chameleon looked as though he couldn’t care less. “a scientist is-““I know what a scientist is. I’m not stupid like these other rainwings.” He interrupted“Doubt it…” he said under his breath. “So what are you in for?”“A lot of things.”“Please tell, it’s been eons since I had someone to talk to. I won’t mind an ear full.”“Fine.” The rainwing shrugged “now what was the first thing I did..?” From there he listed everything he had done within the past decade, Ranging from theft to attempted murder, conspiracy, multiple counts of false identity fraud, and affiliating with criminal organizations. He confessed to it all while trying to justify each and every action, admitting to doing most of it for money and jewelry.By time Chameleon was finished the sun had already begun to sink below the treetops leaving a gorgeous reddish orange hue over the land. “And I think that’s it! Not so bad, right?” He asked as he bit into a mango left by some guards a while ago.The setting Sun casted warm hues across their green and black scales. there was something awfully nice about the way the light shone through the rainwing’s frills, danced across his eyes, and rolled off his snout. The fleeting light was caught in the nightwings glasses and illuminated every little scar on his face like stars.“Chameleon, I can’t guarantee you’ll ever see the light of day after you're convicted.” Mastermind stated. He adjusted his glasses with his wing to take his eyes off the shining dragon “though I must say you’ve led a very interesting life for a rainwing.”“So what are you in for, mister scientist?” He spoke with his mouth full, now focusing on the fruit instead of his dazzling scars“I’m here for “crimes against rainwing kind” but Is it really a crime to capture rainwings for study?” He finished with a hint of remorse in his voice“I did it for my tribe and for science!” He pushed through “it’s not my fault they’re so easy to snatch up like lizards and die just as easily. I was just doing as my queen asked of me.”Chameleon was silent for a moment then a smile grew on his crooked snout “they deserved what happened to them. I always knew nightwings were smarter than other dragons tribes, Especially rainwings. I guess we have that in common.“But aren’t you- hmm…“ mastermind began but stopped himself. “I suppose great minds do think alike.”Chameleon nodded “I don’t associate myself with those fools. I’d spit venom into all their eyes if I could.” This made the trees around them let of quiet gasps at his remarkMastermind cocked his head, a little wide eyed “your very interesting, Chameleon.”“You think so? Last time I checked, I was a FREAK!” He yelled to the eve dropping rainwings. He narrowed his eyes to Mastermind “and what do you mean by “interesting”?”“I just mean I’d like to get to know you more!” The nightwing pulled back “you're just the first rainwing I've met that couldn’t change their scales and was literate! Oh! Do you think there’s a correlation between changing colors and intelligence?”“Well I do consider myself smarter than these clowns, so I guess there’s a chance.” He smirked
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Within the cool shade of the burning palace, a window showed the setting sun. Empress Erosa stood before 30+ soldiers of the four armies that you probably remember the names of (I don’t feel like naming them all lolololo). The soldiers wore their respective uniforms featuring a leather helmet and tunic of their corresponding army. They sat upright with their spears pointing straight towards the ceiling. The side doors were slightly open with sphinxes on the other side eavesdroppingIn Front of the crowd were her heirs, Leon, Kuuma, Grive, and Sayier(and Bumblebee! Headass💀💀💀)Sayier’s fur was light brown with wings like dark chocolate, her face was sprinkled with freckles under her rich orange eyes. She hung her head high but in a way that lacked confidence. Sayier replaced Erosa after her wing injury as high general of the quick talons.Erosa wore a wing sling(like an arm sling but for your wing) that was bedazzled in gems and pretty rocks that wrapped around her chest and neck. When she stood to her her full height on her hind legs was when the crowd fell silently“At ease, soldiers.” She began “I bring you all here for exciting news, that yes, the rumors are true. For those who do not remember or know of them, I shall tell you that the king and queen of the Salted coast will be coming over for a party in the palace!” She announced with gleeThe crowd gasped and muttered amongst themselves. Words of excitement, worry, and confusion were passed around. The Empress raised her talon and there was silence again“Before today, me and my heirs converced on who had been valiant soldiers within the past month deserving of a break from nights of patrolling, guarding, and training future soldiers. All of your names were on the list we had made and I am glad to see that you have all made it here today. However I am even more happy to announce that all of you have been invited to the party!” She clasped her talons together with a smileThe crowd broke out in joyful conversations “they chose us!” “We’re going to meet the king and queen!” “A royal party!?!?”. A few sphinxes raised their talons with questions on their minds.“I see that some of you have questions you’d like to ask, Grive, do you mind answering them?”“It’s my pleasure your highness” Grive bowed and stepped forward “no, you can not bring a plus one, no bringing food from home, there is no dress code just wear nothing too flamboyant, you all have the day off tomorrow, the party is at seven pm, and yes you can bring gifts.”Soon there were no more talons raised, so Erosa continued “yes this is a party where i want you all to have fun, BUT tomorrow night you will be the faces of the Empire and I expect you to all be on your best behavior. Understood?”“Yes, your highness.” Everyone bowed and said in somewhat unison. Soon after they were sent off to their homes for the night but Sayier stayed behind“Empress Erosa? May I ask you something?” She begged“Please Sayier, just Erosa will do.” She said as she sat in her throne which kicked up a bunch of dust “what is it?”“Erosa, it’s this really the best course of action? Bringing a potential enemy into the heart of the Empire? Could we not have them sign a peace treaty?”Sayier was even younger than kuuma. On the surface she was small and weak, but on the inside she had the fight of a hundred dragons waiting to come out. But despite her strength she’d rather play things as safe as possible, despite the difficulty it may cause. If she became empress, she’d let other rulers walk all over her.“Sayier, the situation is deeper than a peace treaty. When they had kidnapped Aster, she was forced to defend herself and ended up killing their eldest prince And wounding many other guards. They are angry at the Empire and a simple peace treaty won’t do anything about their feelings.”“So how is a party better? A peace treaty will stop them from waging war!”“A little piece of paper saying “we won’t attack each other for a while” won’t stop them from doing it. We must try to mend wounds and bring our people together. We have to make them want to not wage war.”“Oh I see. Thank you, Erosa” She nodded“Any time, Sayier. Now go get some rest. We have a big day tomorrow.”[insert time skip to the next day here]Erosa was in her room sitting in front of a mirror, different makeups surrounded her as she applied a golden eyeliner to the bottom of her eyes like sun rays. She glued small pieces of rubies, garnets, citrine, and fire opal around her face in a red to yellow gradient.It was evening by now and their guest would be arriving soon. She and her friends had been had been making sure everything was in place, food was being made, musicians were scheduled, drinks on the way, soldiers in place, and the event room was prepared.She thought of all the things that could go wrong, like them not showing up, the food making the sick, them not liking the party, maybe someone being disrespectful, a fight breaking out, and many other things that would compromise the party.But let's not think about these things, so many things can happen out of your control. Just have hope. A familiar voice said in her head. Enjoy yourself before while you canOh only if she was here…She swung a shawl over her wings with a pin with onyx beads to hold it in a way where it was still light and flowy but still fastened to her. The fabric was decorated with pictures of cactus flowers and cacti.She looked herself over and smoothed out some wrinkles, fixed her hair, and corrected her posture in the mirror. When she thought she couldn’t look any better she stepped out of her room. But in the back of her mind she knew that she could look better. She would of made sure of it…Outside were her heirs decked out in full metal armor with some extra flares to their look. Leon had a head piece with strings of jewels to hide his facial scar. Kuuma wore a neck piece of green turquoise and emerald. Grive wore hooped and long dangling earrings in both ears. Sayier wore bracelets of gold on her tail and wrists.“So how do I look? Is this good enough?” Asked Erosa“You look awesome Erosa! So fancy!” Kuuma cheared“Ooohhh, the design on that is pretty!.” Complimented Sayier“Aww, I should of did make up!” Wined Leon“And all the jewels are in place..!” Yawned GriveShe blushed “you’re all to kind! You all look great too!”“All the guards should be in position for their arrival.” Leon pointed out “we’re ready when you are.”“Then let us go meet our guests!” Said ErosaIn a diamond formation, Grive in the front, Leon and Sayier on the sides, Kuuma in the back, and Erosa in the middle. They all walked through the palace to the courtyard where the desert sun warmed their backs. Sphinxes surrounded the air and looked on in awe were they stood, Ready to fly.Sayier leaned in and whispered “Erosa, are you sure you can fly all the way there?”Kuuma cleared her throat “the wind is pointing towards the city square so we should get there faster and easier. So In a proper V formation, you could. Strongest flyers in the front, weakest in the back.” (🤓☝️)Erosa nodded “what are the formations?”“Me in the front, Grive second, Sayier third, Leon forth, and you in the back.” Kuuma smiled as she got in positionThe rest followed her orders and prepared for flight. Erosa slipped her injured wing out of its sling and leaped into the air with the others. They all moved their wings in a wave to match the changing current. Kuuma was right, it was easier to fly like this! But even if it was easier, she could feel her shoulder ache more and more with every wing beat. Erosa missed being able to soar over her empire, feeling the salty sea air on her face was so nice… but she was also missing something else.The city square was easy to spot from up here. It was clearing, lined in tiles that typically held shops and restaurants, and it was a hot spot for business and travelers. But for today all the stalls had been completely cleared out and the outskirts were lined with guards, and behind them were curious citizens.Before they landed Erosa had caught sight of something coming from the distance, it was a large object surrounded by things that looked like sphinxes but bigger.It’s them! They’re here!They landed in the middle of the square and the heirs went off to inspect their soldiers. “You two, swap tunics” “smooth out your wings!” “Stand tall, look strong” “look ready for anything”With a groan, she put her wing in its sling. She could feel her shoulder throbbing with her heartbeat. Simply another reminder on why she didn’t fly anymore.From above harpy knights landed on the yellow tile of the square. They wore metal armor that looked unbearably hot to wear. They had scabbards with long swords attached to their hips. They stood taller than the average Sphinx by about a foot or two.Then from above, 10 muscular harpies lowered down a carriage from thick ropes into the square. The carriage was beautiful. It was white with a gradient of blue near the top, amethyst and gold swirls depicting wind, birds, and the sun. Rich purple curtains draped over the doors that had a coating on dust and sand.One of the knights stepped towards the curtain and in a regal voice said “King Dain and Queen Alora have arrived!” As they drew back the curtainsA large harpy stepped out, he wore a sleek ocean blue coat with embroidered waves, matching dark blue pants, and white shirt with a large ruffle. The King had a strong jaw with a squared feathered beard with long curling hair feathers flowing down past his shoulders that matched his dark grayish blue wings.Dain turned around and bowed as someone else took his hand and stepped outA slender harpy stepped out, white gloved hand in his. She had a column dress of sea foam green, a small jacket that matched her husband’s, and pearls hung from her ears and neck. The queen's hair feathers were tied in a braided bun that matched her light gray wings.Together they stood surveying the city’s square with the smallest hint of annoyance in their eyes.Alora was the one she wanted to come. In the salted coast, the queens handled diplomatic matters while kings handled defense. She must’ve brought him for safety or she wanted him involved.Erosa stood to her full height and sauntered over to them, her heart pounding in her chest with each stride now realizing that she was now taller than them. Would they take offense?“King of the salted coast, it is our pleasure to have you here.” She smiled as reached out her talon to the king who shook it. He gave her a Firm handshake that she returned to his shock.“And to you, Empress Erosa.” King Dain responded in a deep, booming voice“Queen of the salted coast, it is our pleasure to have you here.” She reached out her talon for her to shake, but all she did was stare.“No thank you, Empress.” Queen Alora said in a soft but firm voice “I’d rather not cut myself.” She gestured to Erosa’s clawsThe empress bowed her head “I apologize, I should have thought about that earlier.”“So what are we doing out here in this… patch?” The king looked around to the brick buildings with fabric, rugs, and pots laid out front for sale. He brushed his talons slightly on the tiles below him, dust and sand piled up around them.“This is one of the Burning empires' city squares. It’s where many sphinxes make a living selling many wares, some exclusive to the desert.”Erosa turned around and pointed to a restaurant that stood out amongst the other shops. “This is the “seaside joint ", a family business owned by some harpys. They will be catering tonight’s dinner.”The queen raised her head in a snobbish way. “Do you not have cooks in your castle to make the food?”“Of course, but I feel like the sphinxes there wouldn’t be able to capture the same taste or texture like these harpies could. It’s like a mix of our two different palates.”The king made an amused hum “so there are harpies out here! I thought it’d be too hot for them.” He let out a hearty laugh “why, I’m sweating like an old fish!”“Well, I told you not to wear all that..!” The queen grumbled then cleared her throat “we’ve spent more than enough time here, take us to your castle.”The harpies opened their wings, ready to follow Erosa.“No no, we’re not flying.” The empress waved her talons “we are walking.”Dain closed his wings, shocked “walking?! In this heat?”Alora knocked him in the back of the head with her wing “yes, why are we walking?” She said calmly“Don’t worry it’s not too far to the palace, my guards will follow us along the way, and your guards will come with.” She sighed and let her regal demeanor fall “and it’s not like I could if I wanted…”The queen narrowed her eyes “why not?” Suspicion and distrust radiated off her voiceErosa flipped back her shawl to reveal her wing sling. She heard her soldiers quickly breathe in through their teeth, the sound of her heirs winching (specifically Leon ) and the huge gasp from the king.“Your wing is broken! oh, I’m terribly sorry for what I said.” The king cried as he bowed“No, it’s not.” The queen said sternly “in the carriage, I saw you flying here. Explain yourself.”Erosa felt all the eyes fall on her. Of course her subjects knew why, but they wanted to know if she’d SAY why. She noticed Leon and Kuuma side eyeing her, practically BEGGING her not to say it. But she couldn’t lie to possible allies who probably wanted her a little bit dead.So she took her wing from its sling and flapped it “sharp eye your majesty, your right, it’s not, I did fly here.” She winced as she put it back “BUT, It is permanently injured, I can’t fly for as long as I like too. And I fear I’m exhausted and won’t be able to fly back. So we will walk”The queen paused, glanced at her husband, then nodded “fine, we will walk.” She turned around and pointed to the strong harpies “You 10, stay back and guard the carriage with your lives. The rest of you, follow.”Erosa led the way towards the palace following a similar path she followed back when she was a soldier. Behind her were her friends, then some knights, the king and queen, and some more knights. Above them flew members of the smooth wing army that were making sure no one messed with their guests.Leon trotted up to her “you know you didn’t have to do all that back there.” He worried “exposing a weakness like that. What were you thinking?”Before she could answer, Grive chimed in “She obviously wants them to trust us, Leon. what if they found out later that she lied? Then what would they think?”“she should’ve lied,” Sayier added “don’t you want them to think we’re strong?”“We are strong!” Kuuma vouched “just because Erosa can’t fly like us, doesn’t mean the empire is weak!”Sayier turned her head to Kuuma, “a weak leader makes all of us look weak.”Kuuma scoffed “like YOU’D make a good ruler, softy”“Said the Sphinx who can’t think for herself.” Grive rolled his eyes“Be real Grive, you can hardly lead a herd of camels” growled Leon “let alone an army.”“Said the guy who had called out of training because his kid said something that SOUNDED like a word!” Sayier mumbled to herself “I trained twice as many-““GENERALS!!” Erosa snapped as she whipped around. Everyone behind her skidded to a stop. “in front of our guest? Really??”“Sorry my majesty!” Grive said hastily “it was rude of us to speak of private matters in a time like this.” He bowed deeplyIt was always so odd how quick Grive was to apologize for anything, right now he made it look like there were horrifying consequences for angring her. Though he did that to everyoneShe sighed “stand up Grive” Erosa looked at the others “ I don’t want to hear a word out of any of you until we get to the palace.”“Yes Empress, we understand.” They answered in unison, with the same tone of voice and eyes closed. Like proper soldiersWeak… I’m not weak! Just because I can’t fly doesn’t mean I can’t defend myself! She scratched at the ground as she walked. I’m still fast and my talons are sharp. Just because I can’t do what sphinxes are made for… doesn’t make me weak.URRGGGHH!!!!! And why would they decide to fight right NOW? They’re making themselves look SO bad! They must think they always do that, okay let’s be honest, they do…BUT THEY DON'T HAVE TO KNOW THAT. They might think our armies can’t work together, noooooo they can’t think thaaaat! She whined in her headIf she was here, she would’ve made them apologize…The rest of the walk was quiet, other than the knights overheating in their metal ovens and the words of awe of civilians as they all walked by. Soon they arrived at the ramp that led up to the courtyard where the harpies struggled in the summer heat.When they reached the top there were servants preparing cups of water for them, like requested early that day.“Here you are, empress.” The head servant handed her a cup.She stood to her full height and raised the cup above her head so that everyone could see “there is enough water for everyone, drink as much as you need!” She drank the water so everyone could see it wasn’t poisoned, then set the cup aside and walked into the grand hall.She watched the knights clamber over and guzzled as much water as they could. The king quickly joined them to the queen's disgust. When they were all done, she took a cup and slowly sipped it with her pinky pointing out.the grand hall held many paintings and tapestries on the wall. Paintings of important figures to the empire, some were remakes of pieces that were 3,000 years old. She Walked on the intricate red rug as she looked at them. Some were large and others small scattered about the dim wall.On the wall was a large painting of Erosa in her old armor, battered and worn, spear in talon, looking as fierce as ever. Impeccably gorgeous makeup and jewels decorated her face in a way she could never do herself. Because it was done by the one beside herAnd beside her was… herThere was a reason why this painting was so Large, because beside her was a dragon.Her aquamarine scales and her deep blue marking on the back of her wings stood out amongst the other pieces. The fan of her tail and the underside of her wings was bright orange like the sun, especially her eyes. Lines of paint around her eyes and lips made them look even more peaceful.She’d stand and look at it for days if she could, but no. She has much more important matters, like a very fancy party with the mother of the son the dragon had killed. One with a very strong army who didn’t seem to particularly like her.“What a powerful creature!” A voice said behind her that made her jump. “Imagine a trained army of them!” The king bellowed“according to her, they do have an army ” Leon said, standing between Dain and ErosaThe king looked down to him “and you are, who?” He drawn out“High general Leon of the long claws, one of the heirs to the throne” he said proudly while sticking out his talon “pleased to meet you.”They shared a handshake “Ah! A prince! I had no idea the empress had a brother!”Leon and Erosa looked at each other “we’re not related.” Erosa correctedThe king looked puzzled then pointed to Kuuma, Grive, and Sayier as they walked in alongside the knights and queen “are they not you siblings? Or cousins?”“No your majesty, just the highest ranking generals of their army.” Leon nudged her with his wing “and my friends, who embarrass me infront of very important people.” She added an is a snarky toneThe king laghed “that sounds like my wife talking! Ha Ha!”“That sounded nothing like me.” the queen scowled from behind them, with a crowd of her knights following behind. Her deep olive green eyes looked at the painting “so that’s the one who killed my son. That beast.” She growledErosa was about to say something but Sayier appeared beside her and quickly shook her head that screamed ‘don’t say ANYTHING back! Let it go.’ So she bit her tongue and nodded“Where is it, the dragon? Is it here right now?” The queen demanded“No.” Erosa shook her head solemnly “She’s gone.”“Dead?” The king asked“She went back home, I don’t know when she’ll be back.” She sighed “but she won’t be back for a good few months”IF she comes back at all… she thoughtAlora collected herself “Good.”“Let us go to the throne room, it’s much cooler than here.” Erosa walked away “bring your soldiers too, if they’d like, they can leave their armor there.”How dare she talk about her like that! She’s not an “it”, she’s not just some lizard! NEITHER is she a creature to be trained! She thought fiercely as she tried to not lash her tail. And she’s not a threat to ANYONE!When they arrived at the throne room the Sphinx guard stood up straight as if they literally weren’t just laying there. They hit their spears on the ground that sent out vibrations through the ground “good evening, your majestys.” They spoke in almost perfect unison “welcome to the Burning empire.”“At ease everyone,” she called out “for now the harpy soldiers will be staying here until tonight’s event. So just relax Until then”The knights looked over to their rulers “oh just go ahead! Just keep track of your armor.” The king smiled. The knights removed the helmets and then walked over to the wall where the guards stood. They undid their chest plates and breathed as high of relief, sweat ran down their faces and stained the fancy looking clothes they wore underneath.“Show us your kitchen” the queen asked “I want to see what food we’re having.”“Of course.” Erosa bowed “you must be hungry after a long flight.”Together the rulers and the heirs walked down the hall, they looked out the windows that lined the halls. Wind drifted through the glassless windows and ruffled the fur of the guards sitting there. All of which were trying to act like they weren’t staring at them as the went by“Empress, may I ask a question?” The king asked without waiting for an answer “why don't you have any proper heirs? Like children?” The queen grumbled In annoyance at his stupid question“It’s alright your majesty, I understand the confusion.” She assured “I don’t want children.”“But The best leadership capabilities are passed down from parent to child.” Alora countered “you can't expect a knight to know how to run a kingdom, now can you?”“in the empire, we do.” Erosa took in a breath “the heirs to the throne are the generals of the armies. The high generals are first pick, then the generals, lastly the low generals. It’s up to me to choose who’s the next ruler.”She continued “and I was a soldier when I ran my empire for the first four years of my rule. And I only stopped because of my wing injury.” She assured “all the rulers before me were all soldiers once, and it’s been like that for the past 3,000 years.”“Can’t say the same thing for Eraline…” the queen whispered to her husband, though I was loud enough for everyone to hear, obviously done on purposeFor a moment she could see the guards in the hall give the queen a glare, which Erosa quickly corrected with glare towards them.Eraline was a fluke! No ruler in the empire’s history was as bad or careless as her. Don’t use her failure as a baseline for us!The king looked to the heirs “and which one of you is that? The next ruler?” The guards seemed to perk up, also wanting an answerThey all spoke at the same time “couldn’t tell you if I wanted” “I don’t know” “that’s classified” “probably not me” kuuma, Leon, Grive, and Sayier said respectively“Only I know who the next heir is” Erosa answered “and no one is allowed to know until I die or retire.”When they arrived in the kitchen the smell of spice and cooking meat and vegetables filled their noses in a way that made their mouths water. When she opens the doors a wave of heat hit them in their faces. Sphinxes and harpies scurried around stirring and chopping and mixing all over the place.“This is pure disorder!” The king yelled “how does anything get done here?”Sayier piped up “it’s not disorganized at all!” She stressed “on the left is where the meat is prepared, completely separately from the vegetables. In the middle is where everything is cooked and at the right is finished, sitting on hot coals to keep it nice and hot.” She rambled as she pointed around“She organized it all.” Grive whispered to Dain “it’s a s safe as can be.”“Scuse’ us! Coming through, don't want to squash anyone’s tail!” Yelled someone down the hall leading a line of five barrel pushers, the barrel being too large for them to see over it. “get out of the way! We got orders from the empress herself!”The barrel approached the kitchen door so they stepped aside “ MOVE IT YA-“ he yelled until he saw the king and queen, the heirs, then the empress herself “c- ch- chumps….” Erosa locked eyes with him and watched the blood drain from his face“Who are you calling chumps?” She warned with a thick layer of hostility, her tail lashed while her friend intensified her stare.“N-n-n no b-ody?” He shuddered seeming to shrink down to half his size“I don’t want to hear you screaming down my halls ever again.” She demanded in a hushed tone “now get in there.”“Yes your majesty! Of course your majesty!” He nodded and continued to roll the barrel with his entourage quietly following behind, avoiding Erosa’s gaze.“That’s it?” The queen asked, offended “you’re letting him go?”She shrugged “he’s the bartender of the drinks for tonight.” She shrugged, “what did you want me to do?”“Throw him in your dungeon! You can’t allow that behavior in your own castle!” The king exclaimed“He didn’t do anything unlawful, so we couldn’t have done that.” Kuuma replied “the most we could’ve done was correct him.”“Well you could’ve fired him! You’d really let him serve drinks to people?”“That guy owns a very popular bar, so I guess people like him.” Grive nudged Erosa “and we’re under contract to pay him by the end of the night. So we might as well keep him.”“Despicable.” The queen scoffed“Oh don’t worry my pearl!” Cooed the king “that just means the alcohol must be good!”“ALCOHOL?!?” The sphinxes yelped at the same time. At the dreaded word, the kitchen fell quiet as the sphinxes stopped for a second out of shock. The guards in the hall gasped and muttered amongst themselvesThe king and queen looked perplexed “what’s wrong?” The queen asked slowlyLeon closed the kitchen door “We don't have alcohol in the empire!” He hissed“Guess you cats can’t handle your liquor?” Laughed the king“It’s an illegal poison, completely out lawned from entering or being produced in the empire.” Sayier cried“One sip you're dead!” Kuuma blurted“Well there go my dreams of getting wasted…” the king sighed“If there’s no alcohol, then what will we be drinking? Juice?” The queen laughed “like children?”“Yes.” Erosa said. “High quality chilled juice, just for the occasion.”“Oh…” the harpies said together“Speaking of the occasion” Grive began looking out the window, watching sphinxes flying in while wearing different kinds of colored clothing “it’s almost time for the party.”“Right!” Erosa beamed “it’s about time we get there to meet everyone. Come, let’s go.”Together they walked down the hall towards the event room. “Kuuma, go tell the harpies to come to the event room.” Erosa said as they walked past the throne room. “Grive, make sure all the sphinxes coming are actually meant to be here.”“Okay!” “Your wish is my command, or whatever.” Kumma and Grive answered as they walked off.“Not even a “yes your majesty”…” Alora rolled her eyes “next they’ll be calling you by your name.”“A lot of people do actually”“Well a proper-“ the queen began“and that’s not up for discussion.” Erosa cut her off and kept walkingSoon kuuma returned with the guest harpies and a line of sphinxes with gifts in their talons. They all wore jewelry and makeup and decorative clothing of all shades of colors.Guards in full metal armor stood in front of the room, Three on each side. Something Erosa had specifically asked for, knowing how easy it is to take down two guards with enough determination and a little help.The guards bowed as they walked into the room and opened the door for them. The room still had some workers wiping down the counters and hanging tapestries. On a stage in the back of the room stood musicians looking through the music that was to be played tonight.On the other side of the room sat three large thrones, in the middle was the tallest and most extravagant, small stares led up to the seat that was just the right size for a sphinx. On the sides of it stood two matching thrones, big enough to fit someone like a werecanine, faun, or in this case, a harpy.The four smaller ones to the side Were of similar size to the one meant for Erosa, with the exception of being more plain and having the engraved names of the armies.Leon went off to tell the workers that they could go, while Sayier helped the caterers carry in the food. Erosa leaped up to her throne as the king and queen sat in their spots.Soon Grive and Kuuma led the 60+ guests into the room. They all looked around at the lavish room in awe as they all dispersed to look around. Soon all the heirs sat in their thrones with a sigh of relief each time.Some sphinxes dropped off their gifts on a dedicated table while others came over, very sheepishly, to say hi and thanks before scurrying away.“I can’t believe they all think they can all talk to us!” The king blurted “did anyone teach them manners on nobles and royalty?”“I don’t see a problem with it.” Erosa informed “they’re just very excited to be here.”“That’s no way for nobles to act.” The queen added“They’re not nobles, they’re soldiers who earned their inventions through hard work.” She corrected“Glorious sun whyyy…..” the queen groaned as she held her head like she had a headache “I am surrounded by buffoons….”“They’re all soldiers?” The king perked up, he leaned over the queen “oh darling! Pleeeeeease let me join them! Soldiers are so much more fun than nobles!” He begged with his hands clasped together like a pleading child“Arghhgg, FINE! Go be with your commoners!” The queen snapped “me and the empress have a very deep discussion that I don’t need you involved in.” She sneered“Oh thank you my pearl!” He said as he practically launched from his seat, going over to the to the musicians and got them to start playing their music.The music consisted of drums, harmonicas, guitars, and an assortment of other instruments. Soon people danced and drank and ate, all around just having fun. Soon Erosa sent off her friends so her and the queen could talk alone.“I should’ve known this was coming.” Erosa chuckled to herself “why don’t you start us off?”“My kingdom is very upset at the death of our prince, and thinks we should wage war.”War. That dreaded word“Queen Alora, you must understand we had just gotten out of a war, right?”“a war with yourself, yes.”“Not just ourselves, but with your son too.”Alora’s brow furrowed “my son would never! How you dare suggest such a thing!”Erosa’s eyes widened “your son was in cahoots with Amel, leader of the of the exsport operation, that was destroying my empire!” She stressed “he kidnapped Aster so he could turn her into a statue!”“Who is this Aster?” The queen huffed “how do they have anything to do with this?”“She was the dragon he had taken.”“Oh,” Alora calmed “the killer creature.” She snarled“She had done it in self defense. No one wants their skin leatherd and hung on the wall.”“Maybe he wouldn’t have gotten his hand on it if you kept it in a tighter leash.” She countered“She is not an animal!” Erosa sneered“It’s worse than an animal! It was part of a soulless race, destined to rot in yerth!”Erosa had the physicaly bit her tongue before she could scream at her or push herself to slap her across her smug salty fish face. So she took a deep breath then said “let’s get back on topic. you have other sons, why can’t one of them take the throne?”“They’re all dimwits, to erratic, and all around to weak for the throne.” She spat “now my son’s fiancé has no one proper to marry and won’t become the next queen.”“What about your daughters?”“One is far to hot headed for dimplamtic meetings, and the other had ran off on a ship that was lost to the sea.”Erosa’s heart dropped but held her face stoic. Aster had once told her a story of a ship that sailed to her home, one of the Harpies said she was a princess before she was killed. That must of been her“I see…” Erosa nodded “but what about your son’s fiancé, you said she was good enough to be queen? Can’t she marry a noble you like?”“It’s not just about the next ruler, it’s also about royal blood.” She shook her head“didn’t you say “the best leadership capabilities are passed down from parent to child”?”“Verbatim, yes?”“Why don’t you just train and teach the fiancé like your one of your children?” Erosa asked “she’d be your daughter and you her mother.”The queen opend her mouth then stopped for a moment, then said “I suppose that might work…” she muttered to herselfThey didn’t speak to each other for a moment, they simply sat and watched the party go on around them. The queen looked deep in thought, was it about war or heirs? Either way, Rosa felt like she should break the silence“You know, your majesty… I really am sorry about what happened to your son.” Erosa consoled “I know exactly how it feels to lose someone very important to you…”“Do you now?” The queen turned to her, curiosity in her eyes“I used to live out in the desert with my family… until they were murdered” Erosa lamented “ then years later I had to kill Amel, who was an old friend of mine back when I was a soldier, who I had already thought was dead.” She let out a heavy sigh “then I lost Aster…”“Wasn’t Amel the leader of the operation problem?”“Yes, and just like you with your son, I never thought he’d do such a thing…” she said softlyThe queen paused, deep in thought “I’m sorry to hear all that, empress.” The queen agreed with a slow nod “but what is with you and that dragon? You're so quick to defend it!”Well, just like her wing, this wasn’t a secret to the empire. But she hadn’t guessed the news hadn’t made its way to the salted coast, with them wanting to fight with the empire and all and being more concerned with royalty problems“Aster is my wife.” Erosa explained “we got married after I took down all the operations.”Alora’s jaw dropped in a very un-queenly way and her wings slightly fell “no… you didn’t!” She drew out “the dragon?!”“You really think I’d have a huge portrait of me and a pet?” Erosa bantered“Then why is she gone?” Alora looked around “Are you… divorced?” She whispered“No we’re not” she waved away “she just went home. she should be back soon.”“But why leave in the first place?”“Aster is a journalist, she came here because she wanted to bring news of the world back home.” Looked to a window that pointed towards the ocean “after she got her news, she went back home. It’s the whole reason she came here.”“Are you sure it wasn’t for nefarious purposes?” The queen probed concern and anger hinted on her voice“Nahhh, the dragons have no reason to storm the mainland. She said her home was perfect with warm sunny days year round and fruit galore. And Aster felt like the embodiment of all those things.”“Did she ever tell you where she came from? We’re all the dragons are?” Inquired Alora“Aster was terrible at keeping secrets, but even she never told me where it was.” Erosa shook her head “but what she did tell me was that they are very fierce with protecting it, so take with that as you will.”“I see…”There was silence again and the party went on. Harpies and sphinxes spoke together of old battles and funny moments, they drank and ate together like the threat of war wasn’t being spoken of on the other side of the room. Though now, it felt like that wasn’t going to happen now.Erosa leaped from her throne “Queen, if you don’t mind, I’m off to enjoy the party.”“I should have known you'd dance with them” the queen obviously wanted to roll her eyes, but didn’t.“If you’d like, you could get a plate or sit at the bar?” She offered “I heard red snapper was your favorite.”“Red snapper?” Alora hummed to herself “I suppose I should try a bite…”From there, Erosa found herself at the bar. she took a seat on the opposite side of the bar from her heirsKuuma took a swig from her glass “it was so dumb of us to say all that in front of the king and queen.”“You say that like you didn’t start it” Grive stretched like he just woke upLeon bumped him with his wing “AND Let’s not start it again.”Sayier sighed “yeah… I’m sorry about what I said about you and your kid. It’s actually cool that you want to be there for them.”“See?! Someone here gets it!” Leon tilted his glass towards Sayier “thank you for that.”“And I’m sorry for saying your soft, just because you don’t charge in fights.” Kuuma apologized“Thank you Kuuma” Sayier smiled“And I’m sorry for saying you don’t have a mind of your own” Grive said begrudgingly “it’s actually kinda nice knowing how loyal you are.”“Guess it’s my turn” Leon began “I’m sorry about saying you're bad at leading. You have the most organized army I’ve ever seen”“It’s my specialty~” Grive joked with his talon to his chest and a fake swoonNow for once at the end of the day, she felt like things were going to be okay with the empire, her friends, and Aster.🐈🐈⬛🐈🐈⬛🐈 + 🦅🕊️
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It was winter again, 9 months after he and his love ran away together. They spent the warmer months traveling, finding work were they could, and finding peace with themselvesBut now, in the bitter cold on the east side of the high wing kingdom, they found somewhere they could stay. A small fuan family who let them stay as long as they didn’t bring trouble, and helped when they could.The two shared a small room together that had one bed, a dresser, and a window. I know what your thinking and no, they did not sleep in the same bed. Yahir slept on the mattress, while Fane slept under the bed bundled up in blankets.But Fane wasn’t under the bed right now. He was looking out the window at the mountains. From where they were, they stood over the cave systems that housed the vampires. His old home was what it was. A place where he was banished from. He looked to the sky where the stars twinkled around a full moonHe looked to his lover in bed, sleeping the night away. It always felt so jarring how much a man could change in two days. His once normal body had transformed into a larger form, now taller than Fane and much stronger. His fair muscles literally changed overnight like they doubled in size. His face grew long and hair even longer all across his bodyIt was so interesting seeing it happen when they first met. The vampire thought it was fantastical and something he wanted to study and take notes on, heck, he still wanted too. But Yahir was always stand-offish around the idea of being looked at like that and being poked or asked questions he deemed embarrassingFane never truly got why Yahir never changed in front of him, even though he had done it at least a hundred times now. He always had to turn around or cover his eyes with his wings. The werewolf always spoke of himself as “ugly” or “weird looking” when asked, and didn’t want anyone to see him even without a shirt onBut despite it all, he had still seen him bathe in a river or lake while they were traveling. Sometimes he’d catch glimpses of him from afar when he called saying dinner was done or simply spotted him from on top of a hill, but he never admitted it. He looked normal enough to him and could never understand the discomfortBut right now, all he knew was how much worse he felt today. He always hated his transformation, calling it a curse casted onto his kind. Though all the other werecanines didn’t seem to feel the same way about it, they called it “a mild inconvenience at worst”Sometimes they shared a bed where he could feel his lover's warmth that all vampires seemed to lack. But now he was cold and grumpy towards him, which wasn’t unusual for a full moon, but this was deeper. He could tell that something was bothering him that made him push Fane away.Had he done something wrong? As far as he knew, he was doing everything right to keep him happy, like how a proper colony mate should! Paying attention to his needs, caring for him, making sure he was okay, everything! What was he doing wrong?He shuttered in the cold so he crawled back under the bed and bundled up. He wished he could be in bed with him instead of down here. Maybe he’d never have a proper colony again, doomed to be left in the cold all alone. He thought maybe he deserved it after what happened three years- no, four years ago now… time really flies when you have over two hundred years to live, while you partner doesn't-He completely covered his face in the sheets, in an attempt to push away that thought. Just go to sleep and appreciate tomorrow with him…The next day when he woke up, he closed the curtains to the windows to block out the blazing sun’s light. In that moment he wished he was underground with the stalagmites and the humidity of the caves with his old colony of six. But that life was gone and was replaced with chilly mountains and eye burning light and a colony of two, including himself.The other half of the colony was still in bed, though it looked like he was waking up. Now he looked smaller, well more like his original size. He looked thinner and shorter like usual, the hair on his face like his beard and hair stayed long.In the house they were staying in, he borrowed a book about home remedies. He had been reading it since the other day. To him it was like a joke book full of things he knew would never work like “putting garlic in your socks to suck out toxins” it was all so silly!He slipped back under the bed to read in darkness. He heard Yahir roll in bed with long uncomfortable groans he knew all too well. All the quick muscle growth tended to hurt the day after a full moon. The werewolf would say he hurt all over and was too tired to do anything, So he planned to take most of the day off to lie down and feel betterBy coincidence, the next page was about how to fix muscle soreness. He immediately thought of all the medications that could be used instead of whatever the book was going to say. He read all the way to the point where it recommended massaging the sore area. Yes that would work but not as effective as any ol’ pain killer.He thought about why anyone would do that instead of the more effective option. Then it occurred that a massage isn’t something done alone. He pictured himself wringing out all the soreness and discomfort from Yahirs body. That’s something a good colony mate would do for another! Maybe it would make his partner like him again…He worked his way from under the bed and stretched his large black wings. “Good morning, love!” He smiled with his usual pointy grinWith half his face obscured with his pillow, Yahir said “good morning… Do you have any pain medicine?”He glanced down to his medical bag with all the medicine the werewolf could ever need “of course I do, but I’d like to try something different.”He raised an eyebrow “and what’s that?”He raised the book so that the other could see the cover “have you ever gotten a massage? I read it might help you.”“I thought you said that book was dumb, and no I haven’t”“Well, with my pre-existing medical knowledge, I believe there is some truth in this book that may be of service to us.” He held his head high and knowingly, like he hadn’t just read about it five seconds ago, but instead knew this for his entire life.Yahir chuckled “fine, you can give me a massage” his arms trembled as he pushed himself into his back “but make it quick, please. I have to help Mrs. Mitternacht with breakfast soon”“Anything for you.” He purred as he posted himself at his bedsideHe pulled away his covers to reveal his loose sweater that he brought last week, and baggy pants that were now too big.He held the book in one hand reading what it said and using the other to feel his back, touching the places where he was meant to work on. It was harder to feel the muscles he had to press through his sweater which made this harder.Why did he get a sweater instead of a normal night shirt? Oh yeah, the blankets. Fane took most of them to stay warm at night. That’s not very good colony mate behavior. Maybe that’s why he’s being cold to him? Because he’s selfish?“Uh, Yahir, I can’t really do anything with this sweater in the way.” Fane admitted“Oh well…” he sighed “at least you tried.”“I mean, you don't have to wear the sweater. Do you?”“Well no, but… you know-““You don’t want me seeing your body, I know.” The vampire said defeated“I’m sorry.” Yahir closed his eyes with a sad expression“But wait-!” Fane realized “what if I just keep my eyes closed? Then I won’t see you!”The werewolf gave a small shrug “I guess so” he painfully pulled himself up into a very slouched sitting position “but no peeking!” He urgedHe wrapped his wings over his face so all he could see was nothing “when have I ever?” With his hands on his waist, he looked RidiculousThis earned him an amused hum and a few small tail wags as Yahir pulled his sweater off and put it on the bed frame “I’m ready” he said as he laid back down.With his eyes still closed, he tucked his wings back and put the book on the floor. Since he couldn’t read it anymore. Before this point the two had kept skin to skin contacts very brief even when cuddling. The unspoken rules were 1. Nothing below the waist and 2. No going under the shirt.But what happens when there is no shirt?He remembered the day they had first shared a bed and how giddy they were to be with each other. The way they kissed and held each other like that for the first time was a night to remember forever. All just to be ruined when fane put his hand under his shirt to feel his side, to feel his warmth. The moment he did, Yahir froze and asked him to move his hand. The rest of that night was awkward and something he cringed at when he remembered. Like nowBut how was this time different?His fingers gently touched his back and he waited for a response, though one never came. He gingerly felt his way to his back, to the spot where wings would sprout if he had any, which would be at his shoulder blades. He pressed in with his hands, focusing on his palms. He felt the tense muscles move under his touch and slowly loosenGods, did he mention how good this felt? It was like all the warmth in the world was bottled up in one person. Fane melted into him with every touch, taking in all the heat he could. His body hair tickled his hands in a way that made him feel like he was touching the softest grass on the warmest Summer night. It made him feel a little envious that he didn’t have any of this.He didn’t need to see his body to know it was so beautiful. But why hide this under layers of fabric? Even from the one you love most? I am the one you love the most, right?He moved up to the spot between his shoulder and neck and squeezed. Yahir made a sound that was a mix of pain and pleasure.The one thing he loved the most was the sun god, aptly named, the sun. Spending his whole life worshiping her and spreading her words to those who listened. But not anymore. Since he ran away with Fane, he left that behind. It’s been over two months since he last saw him pray.He moved to the same spot as before, but now on the other side. He left his job and home for a vampire. Not just any ol’ vampire, one that is a homeless murder. He left all that for him. And is he even happy? For someone so warm to be so, so cold. Been together for almost a year and still didn’t trust him to see his body? Let alone touch it? Dragged from his comfortable life to live in the woods with the promise of happiness, just to not get it?WowHe must be a real crummy colony mate.He froze as his mind spiraled. A tear ran down face and It landed on yahir’s back, which made him jump a little. Yahir opened his eyes and looked over to his crying partner. Fanes hands trembled lightly where he was touching, tears ran down his cheeks from his eyes that were still closed“Fane? What’s wrong?” Yahir ushered himself up with a painful wince and gently took him by his shoulders.Between his sobs and sniffles, he asked “you hate me, don’t you? I’m a terrible colony mate.” he covered his face with hands“What?! No! I Don’t hate you at all!” He pulled him into a hug “why would you think that?”“Because you’re not happy and that’s the one thing I promised you…” he wrapped his hands around him “I’ve taken everything from you. All for nothing.”“But I am happy!” He assured “I’ve never been happier!”What? No he can’t mean that. He lost everything because of me! How? But right now he didn’t have the words to ask. Instead he cried into his shoulder as his partner said that he loved him over and over and how he did nothing wrong.When fane finally calmed down he said “B-but I don’t get it.” In a whisper “You’ve been so cold to me lately…”“Oh, that.” He sounded guilty “I was just… a little upset about something ““Was it something I did?”“No, it was something I did” Yahir took in a breath “I’ve been thinking of the day we ran away together and” dramatic pause “if it was the right choice.”It wasn’t, was it. He regrets it and he wishes he could go back to before he met me-“I love you so, so, so much” his voice cracked as he hugged him tighter despite his weakness “and I’m happy I left with you, but what if it was a test? By the sun?”“What do you mean?”“I wonder if she sent you to me as a gift to cherish or a challenge to overcome? A gift for my devotion where it would be wrong if I pushed away, or a challenge to strengthen my faith but failed miserably?” He continued as he sniffled “according to her book you must be a challenge that I must overcome, so I shouldn’t love you. But I can’t help it. Am I meant to overcome the love itself? But what if it’s the other way around and pushing you away is bad? I don’t know what to think…” he trailed off into quiet tears and whimpers like he had done many times before.Fane put his wings around him as he cried into his shoulder. So he was upset about him but also not? Somehow that god managed to creep her way into Yahirs every thought and confused him anytime she could. He should’ve know this was about her, he was always so paranoid about being deemed “worthy of her love”He broke their hug, and slowly pushed Yahir away so that he could his face. There was always this sadness in his eyes even when he wasn’t crying. This sad soggy man was his and he was not going to just let him cry over her anymore“Look at me Yahir.” He asked calmly. When their eyes met he continued “the sun loves you just as much as I do, and wants you to be happy. Can you promise to remember that?”Yahir nodded and pulled him back into the hug where they cried until they couldn’t anymore. Fane never felt so tired and relieved and happy and loved all at once. Soon they found themselves in bed together holding each other close. But at that moment he realized that his eyes weren’t closed.And his eyes fluttered to his chest then his belly and to his arms, all of which were covered in hair. It was prettier than any gem he’d ever seen, more Intricate than any stalactite formation, a stunning masterpiece crafted by the gods themselves. Far better than what he originally pictured.But in the most agonizing way, his eyes met his and he felt nothing but embarrassed, for he had been caught staring at his biggest insecurity.“I’m so sorry” he mumbled, looking away, face flush “I-you just- uhh…”“It’s fine” he breathed an awkward laugh “just don’t stare so much”“And touching is still okay?” Fane asked though it sounded more like a plea“Yes!” He answered happily as his tail wagged “j-Just nothing below the waist…” he quickly addedGuess we’re saying all the unspoken rules out loud!“Of course!” he cooed “and how about we actually keep it like that? The waist rule I mean?”“Definitely!” Yahir blurted “it’s just something I never really wanted…”“Me too…” they looked at each other with a new found sense of understanding and trust.[the usual “insert make out Scene here” time skip]Fane had a wing draped over Yahir as they embraced after a very affectionate kiss battle. Ah yes, another time where they found peace with their own lives and skin. But there was something in the vampire's mind that still bugged him.“Dear, are you still awake?” He asked as he glanced down to the man snuggled up to his chest. Yahir nodded, it tickled. “Remember the first time we did this?”“Yes?” He answered sleepily“Why did we stop when I touched you? I thought we were having fun?”Yahir was silent for a moment “We were, I just wasn’t ready for that.” He continued “I had a lot of different feelings about us where I didn’t know what to feel.”Back then, he thought they were wrong to be together. Two different races together, let alone two men. Sometimes he’d stay up thinking about it, and when he spoke to him about his fears and thoughts, it always dissolved into religion.Though it would be a lie to say it didn’t scare him too“I understand, it was a lot for me to take in too.” He planted a kiss on his head “but I’m happy I did, because now I have you”
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He found himself staring off the edge of the cliff of grove cove. Pink waters flowed in paths around the islands and dipped into tall waterfalls that led to the ocean below. The sounds of the crashing water almost completely drowned out the sounds of the bizzyboys playing volleyball behind him.He pulled a cigarette from his pocket and with a few tries with his lighter, he had it lit in his mouth. The salty air drifted the smoke away after every draw. He always appreciated every bit of down time while he was on the clock.Things are different now. Almost a month ago, the world almost ended. Inspekta fell from godhood and became human again. Everything seemed to change in one day.“Heya capo!” A familiar voice called from behind- no, Nostalgic was a better word instead of familiar.Capochin turned to face Inspek- wrong name, he turned to face Hector. His voice was different compared to when he was a god. It was older but still sounded the exact same when he ascended 33 years ago. Like hearing an old song from your childhood that brought back so many memories.He still looked the same too. His dark blue curly hair that fell over his shoulders, A red and yellow sweater that was tucked into his pants, And A black button nose below his big red glasses. Other than some new wrinkles that decorated his face he looked the exact same way he did the day he became a god.…The day he became Inspekta“Yeah?” Capochin replied gruffly. It was so weird having Hector back. He wasn’t used to his boss being able to just walk up to him. A part of him missed the days where he chose when to see him.“We’re all a getin shaboingboings.” Hector gestured over a nearby hotdog stand. But the way he said it was off. It was a command- an order- a demand. Not a question, but a fact.A month ago, Capochin would have never batted an eye to his words. A devoted follower of the “one and only god” would never question his leader. He did whatever he said like how he was meant to. Workers answer to the boss and do as they’re told.He has been there since day one. His first follower to bow to his feet. To hang on his every word. To be the god he prayed to when he felt his lowest and the god he thanked when he felt his highest. 33 years of pure loyalty to his eldest friend.The way he cooked for him his favorite meal, burgers with tomato, lettuce, pickles, and steak. The meat was personal. A perfect representation of him giving himself up for his god. And he did it every day for him.He’d watch inspekta take the first bite, and swoon when the flavor hit his tongue. His heart would skip a beat just by the look on his face.He loves itHe loves meHe’d go to the end of the earth for his god. He’d destroy the world for his god. Rule over everyone with his one and only god. Then will they be equal, Side by side, together“Nah” Capochin turned away, back to the ocean, and took a breath from his cigarette.“What?” Hector faltered “but-““I’m not going” he deadpannedAll of that was 33 years ago. On his knees begging for something- ANYTHING more than praise. Give him an inch of respect and I’d feel like a yard- no, a mile!And nothingFor 3 decades, treated like his dog. ‘Capo, deliver this letter!’ “Capo, put up more poy-sters!” “Capo, more burgies!” Capochin didn’t even sound like a name anymore when you toss it around like that.It’s not even his real name. a name earned through accomplishments, how many letters were there now? Yet a name he clung on to with every fiber of his being. It was his worthEverything he was worth to inspektaBut he’s gone now.“But why not?” Hector challenged, his words had a layer of confusion to cover hostilityWhat? Not used to him saying no?“Cuz I don’t want too” he said with a shrugBut he did want to. So so badly. A terrible force of habit. He was the god of leadership for a reason. His voice really was like a melody that you couldn’t help but get lost in.That song was stuck in his head for 33 cobdanm years. This earworm told him to end the world and he danced along to the rhythm. Like a good little dog who only answered to his masterBut he was tired of being his bitch“And I don’t got to, if I don’t want to.” Capochin finishedAfter a pause, Hector spoke “Capochin…” he held onto his own tail “I’m sorry.”He didn’t answer“I know I put yew threw a lot for a long time. And it’s just… I’m so, so sorry for what I did.” He began wringing his tail in his hands “but, fwom human to human, let’s just hang out! Like old times!”Capochin took a drag “I appreciate the sentiment…” he took the used up cigarette from his mouth and stamped it out on the ground “but I don’t forgive you, and I don’t think I ever will.”That hurts to admit. Would he really never? Not today at least. Too many raw feelings to stuff down. Jealousy, hatred, stress, admiration… love? There was no way to fit all that junk into a neat box. You Have to wait for it to cook down before it could fit.“Oh… okay. Sorry for botherin’ yew.” He choked. With his tail still clutched in his hands, he turned and began walking away.Capochin looked back and yelled “AND PUT YOUR TAIL DOWN! You want even more bandages?!”“No sir!” Hector dropped his tail as he called back and hastily returned to the bizzyboys.Even after all those years, he still couldn’t help but care.
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The bizzyboys were in buzzhuzz investigating a case about stolen artifacts from the museum. Turns out some dog named Rodney stole a bone from 10,000 years ago. So the case is solved!Before they all head home for the night, Patty stood in front of Bauhauzzo's statue. In the setting sun's light, he could still see the old paint that Godpoke had throne on it last month.The image of inspekta’s painted face standing over a dozen sorrow- despaired- fearful faces seemingly begging for help, was engraved in his mind. It opened his eyes to everything that would've happen.And he couldn’t help but feel guilty“Good work out there patty!” An older voice called to him. Capochin came up behind him and joined him in looking at the statue“Thanks boss.” Patty couldn’t help but still feel mad at him. He never felt so jealous before. Seeing the other boys get so many letters.But that didn’t matter now. His name is Patty. That's His real name. No extra letters and no letters less. No matter how Hector or Capochin tried to change it, he never budged.He felt proud of himself for standing up against capo. Like a flame he never knew he had ignited inside him that day.“Hey kid.” Capo tipped his head towards him“Sir?”“I’m sorry for how I treated you.” He kept his eyes on the statueHe never expected the words “I’m sorry” to come out of his mouth. Especially towards him. He didn’t know he could feel that way.“I don’t-““You don’t gotta forgive me.” He cut him off, taking the words straight from his mouth.Patty breathed a sigh of relief and muttered “oh good” under his breathCapochin shrugged with a smile “I know how it feels when you don’t want to forgive.” His eyes stayed on the statue. Wistfully looking at the chipping paint on bauhauzzo.Red and teal paint cling to the cracks of the stone. Remnants of Inspekta seemed like they were to stay long after his descension.“So you don’t forgive Hector?” It was kinda weird to think about. Of course he did! Capochin was Inspekta’s number devotee! Why would that change? Maybe this is why he never got more letters. Always asking obvious questions.“No.”“Huh?”“Hector put me through a lot-a shit. Made me feel a lot-a ways that I didn’t like. All for nothin in the end.” Capo grumbled “so he won’t be getting my forgiveness for a loooonng time.”The more he thought about it the more it made sense. Before the rift opened, Capochin would do whatever Inspekta said. No matter how small or weird. Once he had to pick all the m&ms from some trail mix for Inspekta to eat, but specifically the red ones.He always said doing things like that was an honor only bestowed on the best-iest boy. Soon all the other boys wished they could do that for their god. So they all worked day after day trying get however many letters Capochin hasBut wasn’t it weird how Patty got all the weird and small jobs because he was so useless?But after the rift was closed and Hector was back, things between him and the ex god weren’t the same. Hector once ask Capochin for a burger just for capo to say “up yours” before walking away.Was he meant to feel that upset?“I’m thinking of leaving the bizzyboys.” Patty said with his tail coiled around his legCapochin shot him a quick surprised glance, looked down to the ground in thought, then back to the statue. “it’s your life Patty. You can leave if ya want.” He shrugged “but you gotta tell Hector that. He’s da boss.”There was silence for a moment “… that’s it?”This was the first time Capochin really looked at him tonight. His eyes looked into his with confusion.Sure Patty is one of the newest recruits, but was that really all he had to say? Just letting him go like that? He didn’t know what expected tho…“You're just… letting me leave?”“Well yeah. You gotta want to be a bizzyboy to be one.”But did he really want to leave? He might have been jealous of the other boys, but they were still his friends. They could still be friends though just off work. But he had so much fun with them while working. It was a dilemma“Ya know patty,” Capochin began in a voice so low it was almost a whisper “I kinda look up to you.” He chuckled to himself like he couldn’t believe what he was sayingPatty’s eyes went wide “you do?”He couldn’t believe it. The boss looked up to HIM???? This was something he could never dream of happening in a million years.“I never thought you’d ever stand up to me, never thought you had it in you.” He grabbed onto his tail with one hand “it was a little inspirin’ To say the least. I’m never gonna let Hector walk all over me again.”He never thought of it like that. That maybe Capochin didn’t really like doing all those little tasks for Inspekta. Was he forced against his will or was it for something else like…Respect?Something patty himself always wanted from capochin? Did he just want that from Inspekta too? Now that he thought about it, making some do stupid tasks is kinda mean. He’d know after all
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The ship rocked as they sailed over the waves of the Golden scale reef. She soared over the water, tilting just enough for her wing tip to graze the water. It was far warmer here than the Bottomless stretch.The ocean breeze turned her upwards and she let it guide her to the sky. Aster was almost home. So close to the Isle of Scales that she could almost smell the fruit and hear the bird songs. Though that was wishful thinking.She had been gone for two and a half years, baking in the desert. She wanted to return to the humid climate of her tropical homeland. She missed the palm trees and the fresh mangos and all the bright colors. Maybe she could also hear it calling her name? More wishful thinkingShe soon soared to the deck of her ship and landed on its wooden floor. But no matter how much she missed her home. She missed Erosa more. With her trip to the mainland, she never thought to find love. Especially from a little Sphinx that was half her height.She missed carrying her as she flew. How she colored her face in makeup. When she laid curled around her throne while she listened to her people. She yearned to go back to her everyday.But she had to go back home. She went to the mainland as a journalist. Collect stories, write papers, get info, then go back home and share your findings. That was the goal all along. Not get roped up in a civil war, kill a prince, and get MARRIED to ROYALTY!She felt the little golden ring in her finger and she wasn’t sure if she’d ever see Erosa again.Dragons were meant to stay in the Isles and to never leave. The mainlanders weren’t meant to know they were still alive. That’s how it’s been for three thousand years. But Aster messed that all up.On the mainland she was a sensation! The hot new thing! She remembered reading the papers about her and they all said something like “DRAGONS ARE ALIVE!!! There’s one in the desert! Empress Erosa’s new pet dragon!” Great for her goal of journalism when people travel it’s to see you.But she wasn’t sure if she could go home. She broke the BIGGEST RULE of Being a dragon! Who knows what the other dragons will react when she gets home! All she could do was pray to her god of hope that at the very least, her stories would be shared to the masses so she wouldn’t die for nothingOh yeah, she also broke another BIG RULE…The sound of little talons landed on the ground behind her. “So today is the day, isn’t it?” Said a Sphinx. His fur was of chocolate brown white little feathers on his wings. His name was Cocoa and he was an ex member of the smooth wings. He was somewhere in his forties and he looked like it. “The day we reach land?”It wasn’t just her ship out here. Tied with thick rope was another ship tethered to hers. of two mainlanders, sphinxs to be precise. She was loved amongst the burning empire so it wasn’t odd to see it’s people want to go with her. Even with the threat of execution when they got there.“Sure is!” Aster looked to the horizon, aw geez was that land in the distance? Was that wishful thinking or real? “go ahead the others and tell them to get ready!”He opened his wings and let the ocean wind Carry him away. There were two other sphinxes on that ship. One was Grain, a fierce yellow Sphinx that was tiny for a soldier who was so eager to prove himself. The other was Copper who was named for her fur and was history fanatic.Aster went inside her ship and into her room. It was cluttered from head to toe with her horde. Comprising her stay in the desert and gifts she received. She opens a chest and fished out a telescope. She went back to the deck and pears into the distance. It WAS land!She gasped at the sight. She looked at the sight of distant dragons flying around the coast and Ships like hers docked at the shores. She knew that her ship would be spotted soon and was to be visited by shore patrol, as all ships were when they sailed in.The flag! She needed her flag! She ran back inside and to her living room, which was also cluttered. Near her book shelf was a box of ship flags of all different meanings. She pulled out a flag that was yellow and blue that was tied to a stick. Now back outside she waved her flag high in the air. The flag ment “I wish to communicate with you” so the workers would see her sooner.Soon the Sphinxs showed up to her deck “oh my sun! Is that land in the distance?” Copper asked“Yeah! That should be the Red Scale Tropic! It’s where I’m from!” Her words were a mix of anxiety and excitement.“What’s that flag for?” Little Grain asked“The flag means “I wish to communicate with you” so the workers will come to see us sooner.” She answered “I want them to know I’m back. Let them know I’m safe!”“You know these dragons?” Cocoa “ain't they soldiers?”“They’re my friends!” She said “and I’ve been in the army before! I’ve worked with these guys.”Wind filled the sails and pushed them to land faster.“Everyone, get inside. I don’t want foreigners to be the first thing they see.” Aster commanded. The day they left the mainland. Cocoa, Grain, and Copper pledged themselves to her as their general. So she guessed that made them her mini personal army. Which was kinda weird to her.They nodded and went into her ship, closing the door behind them. She waved her flag around until her arms were tiered, only then did a dragon came to her.His scales were of pastel orange and the underside of his wings were like leaves. He wore a blue hat that was tied to his head with a matching vest that said “lifeguard” His light yellow eyes met hers and they both smiled“Navel!” “Aster!” The two yelled at the same time and clung onto each other in a hug.“Where have you been? Are you alright? What happened to you?” Navel asked while circling her“Uh… just out and about!” She had no idea what to say“Out for two YEARS???” He yelled“Yes?”“We all thought you died!” He grabbed her by the shoulders “Your mother misses you so much! Oh my GODS you missed so many drafts! and you’ve just been out????”“I was busy-“He yanked her into another hug and said “I’ve been hoping every day you'd come back… thank the sun and moon you're safe…”Oh Navel, always such a worry wart. Old childhood friends who grew up together. Dragons of a different clutch people would describe.“I’m happy to see you to.” She whispered“Where’d you go?” He askedAster cringed. She didn’t know how much she should say. She thought talking about where she had been would be easier.Navel looked into her eyes, all the color seemed to drain from his face in a moment “NO!!! You did NOT DO IT!!!!”Navel was one of the last people she met before she left for that mainland. That night the talked about how boring things can get in the isles and how things sound so exciting on the mainland. She accidentally let slip that she wanted to go there. He thought it was nothing at the time. He had no idea how genuine she was“Quite down!” She covered his mouth“You did it! Oh great gods you did it! I didn’t think you would do it!” He spiraled with terror painted on his face“Hey! Everything is okay! I’m fine, see?” She stepped back and spread her wings. “Back in one piece!““Did they see you? The mainlanders?”She rubbed her arm and looked away“How many? Five?”“…”“Ten! Ten of them!”“…”“MORE?! Like twenty?”“ eight hundred thousand…”“What?”“Eight hundred thou-““EIGHT HUNDRED THOUSAND??!?!?!?” He screamed “THAT MANY????? Did you even try to hide???”“At first, yeah…” Aster said, just now realizing how bad this all sounded “but I just so happend to sail into the main port of a very busy place full of a lot of people.”“We’re doomed.” He slumped“No we are not! It turns out the people there are kinda nice and friendly to the idea of dragon still being alive! As long as we forget the part where they tried to murder me!”“They WHAT?!?!”“Forget that last part!” She added hastily “there are nice people over there! Who doesn't want all of us dead! Don’t you see how amazing that is?”“I guess?” He took in some deep breaths to calm his nerves “as long as they don’t know we’re out here, we’re safe! Right?”Aster didn’t answer“Right?” He winced“… don’t freak out.”“ASTER!!!” He cried“I know it sound really bad-““No, it IS really bad!” He took her by her shoulders againAster folded “they’re on the ship. Like, right now.”Now he was silent since. He slowly stepped back in shock, horror, and a hint of anger and betrayal. “This is a code red. The biggest fattest code red in dragonkind history” he said slowly in a whisper“I’m sorry…” she mumbled“I’m getting the coast guards now.”“I know… it was nice seeing you again.”“…Yeah…You too.” He opened his wings and took to the air. From below she watched him take a red cloth from his vest and wave it around, though the wind carried away his words. But she knew what he was yellingShe turned around and opens the door to the ship. The sphinxes jumped but relaxed when the saw it was her.“This is bad.” She said “like the worst thing ever.”“We heard” said Cocoa “the walls aren't exactly thick.”Grain stepped up “what do we do now? Get our weapons and fight? Go down fighting?” He sounded a little to enthusiastic“Are they gonna kill us?” Copper asked “we didn’t even touch land!”“Listen!” She said “we are all going to the deck and we are going to sit there and wait for them to come for us.”“Like sitting hares? Just let them take us?” Grain asked“Yes, Grain!” She exasperated “they will kill you if you fight back! No weapons, no armor, nothing but the wings on our backs.”Aster sighed “you are to do as you're told. Do not speak if not spoken to and do not fly without being asked. That is an order.”The sphinxes looked to each other then nodded “yes ma’am” they said in unisonSo together they walked to the deck and watched the dragons fly in, there had to have been twenty in a V formation. Navle lead the charge as they soar down to them. They held weapons, ropes, and cages in their talons.The ship rocked when five of them landed. The rest surrounded in the sky “Step away ma’am! We will handle this!” A soldier shouted“I’m with them” She held out her talons with her palms to the sky and dipped her head “arrest me too.”“But your a-“ the dragon faltered“A traitor” Navle answered like it hurt to say those words“We won't fight back” she looked to her friends “right?”“Right! I-I mean I would never!” Copper shook her head looking to the soldiers“We mean no harm.” Cocoa put his talons out like Aster “just saying hi.”Grain stood as tall as he could “yeah, what they said…”The dragons looked at each other in a bit of confusion. Aster knew they weren’t expecting this. The mainlanders always fought or ran when they came for them. This must have been a first for all of them“No one else is on board the vessels. We harbor goods from the mainland that I wanted to bring to the isle. Most items are in barrels below deck; everything else is part of my hoard or is owned by the sphinxes.” Aster rambled on while ropes were tied around her wrists.“You went to the mainland-” A younger dragon asked before an older dragon loudly cleared his throat to shut her up. Her scales were a deep orange with bright white horns. She had a deep curiosity in her eyes. Her uniform hardly fit her. It must’ve be her first time getting draftedAster could’ve sworn she looked familiar…“Yes! I’ll tell you all about if you want” Aster beamed to the other dragon’s displeasure“Everything said could be used against you in the court of law” the old dragon said as the straightened out a line of ropeAster knew what was coming and stuck out her head to let them wrap the rope around her snout. So she couldn’t chew off her restraints or bite anyone.She watched as her friends were literally picked up like chickens and placed in cages. With the jingle of keys they locked the doors. Soon she was led into the sky, but she couldn’t help but looked back to her boat as the remaining dragons led it to shore to be docked.Everything there was so valuable. Notebooks she filled with the words of so many people and experiences. Gifts handcrafted and fitted for her to take home. Jewelry that looked nothing like what dragons had. Furs, pelts and fabrics her kind had never seen.And her last gift her wife had gave her the day she left.Literally irreplaceable.Her life’s work was All on that ship.She knew what was coming. One day she would be called to present her things in front of everyone. In front of the kings and queens and their children like how all foreigners had to before being put to death.Like their lives were a showBut had they ever had a dragon do it before? No. No one has ever done what she did. To them. She was a traitor. So she was going to put on the best show they had ever seen.It was the she could do before her untimely demise. Or to prevent it.Time skippppppppPrison was cold. Stuck underground in a cold cellar behind thick metal bars. She had a trough of vegetables to eat. But they were old and wilted. She had a bed of old worn out sraw packed into a sack that she sat onIn another cell across from hers were her friends. They all huddled together in a fuzzy mound in the corner. They looked all sad together with a hopeless look in their eyesTheir cell had bars that were closer together so even the smallest of them couldn’t slip out. Made specially for foreigners. She couldn’t imagine how many people had stood in the same corner with the same expression over the past 3 millennium.She had a lot on her mind. How long has it been? A day or two? would she get to taste a mango again? Or a orange, chocolate, or pineapple ever again? All she could do was hope. That’s something all dragon liked to do.Hope. That reminded her of something…“Hey guys?” Aster walked up to the bars and looked to the other cell.“What?” Grain grumbled“Do you know the story of Agdin?” She asked “the Demigod of hope?”“I know!” Copper said “I read books about her”“I had a friend who worshiped her.” Cocoa shrugged.“Well did you know that Agdin was raised in prison just like this?”That really got their attention. The boredom was quickly washed away as they looked at her in interest.“No she wasn’t, she was…” Cocoa trailed off “I don’t actually know.”“Though I think it was nicer than this” she gestured around her “she was royally you know. Raised in a royal prison of queen Rosel the GreenWing, her mother!”“Royalty? She’s not regal at all!” Copper spat “the books say she’s nothing like a princess.” She wrapped her talons around the barsAster copied her “but she is one! Do you think she’d be very princess-y if you were raised in a cell your whole life?”No one answered“Well, Like how I told everyone before. She’s a hybrid! Her mother was a dragon and her father was a Sphinx.” Aster began “and she lived in secret in a dungeon for 18 years until she broke out. After that she had 5 days of freedom until she died and was resurrected as a demigod!”“So a Sphinx came here before and lived?” Copper questioned with a new light in her eyes“Uhh- Rosel executed him before she knew she was pregnant.” Aster mummbled“What are you trying to say?” Grain scowled. Or was that a normal look? He always just looked angry“I think we need to have hope. That we’ll get out of here. Agdin did and look what happened to her!”She continued “we'll get out of here even if it’s only a while! And let’s appreciate it while we can!”“… but I don’t wanna to die.” Copper said “I know I signed up for this but. I don’t want this to be it. I have so much I wanna do still.”“Yeah! I got my siblings at home. I want to see them again!” Grain softly winedCocoa was silent for a moment. “I don’t know why I came out here… I just needed something to do with myself after my gang broke up. Why’d I choose this over something normal?” He said to himself while retreating back to the cornerAster knew how they felt because she felt it all before. When She left Navle and her mom, wanting something new, wanting to do more. She knew it all to well“I know…but who knows what might happen. Maybe we will get set free? Fly under the sun again and eat fruit in the desert!” She wished with a shurg “we just… gotta hope.”“What’s hope gonna do to save us?” Cocoa asked“It Makes us wanna live to see the future.” She sighed “And sometimes. That’s all you got.” Aster lamented as she took her talons from the bars and sat on her bedNo one spoke for a good while after that.Time seemed to pass on and on and on… until she heard something. Talon steps coming down the hall mixed with the sound of armor. And there are multiple of them. The sphinxes looked to each other in deep worry. Cocoa brought a wing over his friends to keep them close.Five dragons stood in front of their cells. scabbards tied to their wastes, shiny engraved metal armor with gems of all colors and sizes to decorate. This is fancy. To fancy for common day use.Today was the day they’d been waiting for“Rise traitor.” A guard called to Aster in a shaky voice “Hope you’re ready to answer for your crimes.”She knew that nervous voice from anywhere“Couldn’t be more happy too,” She smiled “Navel!”He sighed and unlocked the door to the cell and she daintily walked out. The sphinxes were being wrapped up in rope to be lead out when Navel and another guard stood beside her and ushered her to move“Never thought you’d get this jig!” She whispered to him “you look all fancy!”“Be serious Aster!” He hissed through his teeth “this is so not funny!”“Yeah I know, just happy to see you!” She really was happy. But still so sad. Maybe this would be their last conversation.“You know this girl?” The other guard bumped Navel with their wing“No commander sir!”“then quit ya yappn’ and march!”They walked the walls passing more prisoners- who were all dragons of course- who all gasped and pointed when they saw the sphinxes walk by. “Mainlanders!” “What are those?” “The cat things from the books!” She heard them say in hushed voices.At the end of the hall was light. Sunlight. She had no idea how much she missed it. It was blinding at first but when her eyes adjusted she looked around in wonder. It was like a coliseum. Smells of fruit and flowers filled the air. Woven wooden structures created a dome around the structure where vines bloomed with flowers of all shades of the rainbow.In the stands were dragons of so many colors. Pink, yellow, red, purple, and every other color out there. They all muttered and whispered as they all walked in there was easily over 200 people here. Faces all painted with colors and matching outfits and jewelry.It’s everything Aster had missed about the isle, it almost brought a tear to her eye. Almost.Above her in a spot located higher than all the others was five groups. The royals of the five quarters. The RedScales, the royals of the current island she was on, sat in the middle. GreenWings and the BrightHorns sat to the left while the DeepEyes and RidgeBacks sat to the right.Each family had characteristics that matched their royal name. They each had a king and queen and the eldest child. They sat so perfectly. Wings tucked, shoulders squared, heads up, and eyes staring down at her.And who was that? That little orange BrightHorn. Omfg- ITS HER.Little dragon sat between her parents with the same posture. Jewelry of bright ted hot rubies fell over her face with gold chains. Her green eyes looked into hers with the same curiosity as before.In the shock of it all she failed to notice all her things that were on her ship had been brought out, like a platter at a party. When the guards stepped away, she hurried over to her hoard.She had to find it. We’re was it? She opened the top to a wooden crate that was full of her books. The wrong books. She ran to another box and opened it. Nope wrong things. Then to another box.“Aster of the RedScale tropic-“ the queen of the RedScales bellowed over the crowd. Hush fell over the coliseum.“Just a second, I’m looking for something!” She called back, cutting her queen off. The crowd gasped and began to speak again“Excuse me?” Queen Red fumed“I- I mean- yes my highness!” She had to correct herself. She’s not Erosa, she can’t talk to her like that. She stopped searching for a moment to look at her“You have done the worst crime imaginable to the dragon kind.” The queen hissed “you’ve betrayed us for trinkets and accessories! Explain yourself at once!”“my queen! I didn’t do it for that!” she almost snarled. To think she’s risked her life for junk- now that’s just an insult! “and these are not trinkets. They’re gifts to the dragons!”“Gifts?” The little dragon- no, let’s use something more appropriate- princess BrightHorn asked “for us?”Her parents shot her a glance but she ignored them “tell us, what is all this?” The princess continued with a gesture to all her things“Answer my question first!” Queen RedScale shouted “why did you go to the mainland!” The king rested a talon over her fist to calm her.Okay it’s time to put on a showAster cleared her throat to get everyone’s attention “I am Aster the journalist!” She yelled to the crowd “I bring news to the public! That is my job!”Everyone was silently listening and watching, so she continued “but nothing was new. Old drama with new people, Having the same conversation everyday, doesn’t it just get boring?”Through the mass of words of so many people she heard “yeah, sometimes.” “It does get a little flat around here.” “I think so!”“And don’t we all wanna know what’s going on over there on the mainland? With so many different races together, there must be something new going on every day, right?” She looked to the royals “so I wanted to find out the truth, like a PROPER journalist! I put my life on the line for the story of a lifetime!”“AND I SUCCEEDED!!!” She cheered with her wings open and talons in the air “I’ve seen things no dragon had seen in THREE THOUSAND YEARS!!! And ALL of it was worth it!” When she found the box she was looking for, she took out a book and held I high for all to see “in these books, I’ve documented everything I experienced on the mainland. I went through it all for the dragons!”Now the crowd was loud as everyone spoke so many words at once. “What happened over there?” “What did you do?” “Tell us! Tell us!”They liked her or were at least interested in her. That’s what she needed right now. If the public likes her and that’s what truly mattered. The royals can’t harm someone everyone likes. She needs to hold on to this for as long as she could.“SILENCE!!!” The king of the Ridgeback yelled “she is a TRAITOR!!! She has compromised our home by bringing these foreigners here!” He pointed to the sphinxes who were trying their best to not be noticed.“You say that like you aren’t confident in our army.” Aster yelled back “we. Are. DRAGONS! We could crush all the sphinxes with a fifth of our army!” She turned to the crowd “isn’t that right?”A huge uproar filled her ears of everyone yelling in agreement. The sound was so loud it forced her to cover her ears.“But why bring them here? What's the point?” The prince of the deepeyes asked“Guys, come here!” She called over quietly with a soft smile, soon they stood in front of her looking up to the royals “these here are civilians of the Burning empire, where all the sphinxes live and where I resided in my stay. Each one volunteered to come here with me to see and learn about the isles as a visitor.”She rested a talon on Copper’s head “this is Copper, a historian who would love to hear the history of our people.” She pointed to Grain since he was too short to reach “this is Grain, a devoted subject who wishes to join the ranks of the dragon army.” She put her talons on Cocoa’s shoulders “this is Cocoa, who strives for a better life after he lost everything, among the isle of scales.”“I’ve sailed with these people for 6 months and I know they don’t have a single bad bone in their bodies” she continued “they would be devoted loyal subjects like all of us dragons if you spared their lives and gave them a chance!”“Is that really true little cats?” The GreenWing queen asked leaning down to hear a response “Well?”Copper stood to her full height and stepped forward “yes! I want nothing more than to know what the dragons are about! I want to know your culture and history. And if that means becoming a subject for your rule…” she bowed so deeply she almost fell over “then that is want I want to be!”Amongst the gasps and cheers, Grain stepped forward “I might not look it, but I fight with every feather and hair on my body! If you allow me, I’d give my life for your people at the word of your command!” With tears in his eyes we got on his knees like kight being sworn “I’d be your most devoted soldier you’ll ever have if you let me!”Cocoa walked up “I’ve lost everything in the empire! Friends, family, home? GONE! My empire has failed in every way. But when Aster told me of her home, I felt hope! That maybe there is somewhere else for me? It's all so perfect here!” He laid on his belly and rested his forehead on his legs “i'd be forever grateful if you could give an old man like me a second chance in your amazing home…”The crowd swooned over their words “should we really let them stay?” “I wouldn’t mind living with a Sphinx.” “They seem nice enough.”“We hear you all.” The RedScale king spoke calmly in a voice softer than feathers “we will come to a decision about your life in time, but Aster… what happened on the mainland while you were there?”“Yes tell us all!” The BrightHorn princess added“oh where do I start?” She rubbed the back of her neck “well it all started when I first reached land. I docked in the Burning empire and was immediately swarmed by Sphinx soldiers! I knew I could fight them off but I didn’t want to leave a bad impression.” She shrugged“So I let them tie me up and lead me to their palace where they presented me to their empress- er, an empress is like a queen- so they showed me to their ruler who’s name was Erosa!” She began walking to her things and pulled out a notebook, she flipped through her pages and pulled out a piece of paper.Aster proudly held it up for the royals to see “this is a drawing of her someone had made for me!” Everyone leaned in for a closer look. “That day she threw me in prison!” She beamed“She imprisoned you?!” The DeepEye prince yelped“B-but not for long! That same night she came to see me and I told her I meant no harm. And two days later she let me out under the rule that I couldn’t leave the empire. After that I began talking to the people and learning all about them.” She picked up the wooden box full of books “that’s what all this is!”“But soon I learned that things weren’t going so well in the empire. The empire was at war with itself against three evil groups. The same war that destroyed Cocoa’s life and the lives of thousands of others.”Dragons gasped but she went on “Erosa was trying her hardest to fix things with her friends, but she needed help. So I stepped up to help her save her empire. When she was stressed I let her stay in my ship. When she was scared I let her hide under my wing. Sometimes she’d even let me sleep in her throne room…” she trailed off“Um- back on track!” She waved “sooner or later Erosa had taken down the second group, but the third group was tough to beat. So when she needed the most help I joined her in battle!” She held up a beaten helmet made specifically to fit her. “I fought by her side and defended her empire, until I was taken by the harpies!”Now that set them off. everyone yelled at the dreaded word. The royals quickly settled them down so Aster could continue“The put me in prison with the intent to skin and stuff me like how they did to dragon in the great genocide! They took me to a coliseum just like this one where they tied up my wings and bounded my mouth shut so their prince could kill me!”“And I thought it was all over! But with the power of hope from Agdin herself, I persevered! I managed to tear off my restraints and bit the little bird in half! Then in the nick of time Erosa and her army came for me and saved my life!”“A sphinx did that?” The BrightHorn princess asked wide eyed “she really came to save you?”“Yes she did! And I am forever grateful for her!” Aster's face fell “then things got messy… me, Erosa’s uncle, and her heirs were all captured. And then I really thought it was all over. Until Erosa came for us. She tried to sacrifice her life for us that night…”“I carried her still body back to the empire with her blood seeping into my scales.” She wiped away a tear and smiled “but thank the sun and moon it was there to carry her… because she lived! Other than a permanent wing injury and some new cool scars she was just fine!”“What’d she do after?” The BrightHorn princess pleaded for an answer “did she throw you a thank you party? Maybe gave you money?”“She threw me more than just a party…” Aster blushed as she slipped the ring off her finger and held it high so it could shine in the light “she threw me a wedding! Erosa is my wife and I am hers!”The royals gasped in a very unroyal way that matched everyone else here as they lost their minds. “That makes her royalty!” “Married to a Sphinx?!” “No-but we’re royalty!” The kings and queens spoke over each other.“And Erosa would’ve love to speak to all of you, but of course she couldn’t come -Having an empire to run and all- so she wrote y’all a letter!” From a box she pulled out a little brown envelope with a drown seal. “May I take it up to you?”“Yes! Let me see!” The BrightWing princess leaned over the edge with her talon outstretched“Clementine! Sit down and be quiet!” The BrightWing queen snappedAh, so Clementine was her nameAster took to the air and put the letter in the princesses talon. She already knew what it said because she helped Erosa make it. She reamered the dimly lit room of Erosa’s bedroom. being curled up in her expensive pillows and blankets. Her wife paced around saying what she wanted written down and Aster catching every word on paper.Clementine gingerly opened the letter and unfolded it and held it out to read:December 15 6,094Letter Address to the rulers of the islesIf you have received this letter, then Aster has returned home safely or at least the letter has. But no matter how you come across this letter, I want to send you my thanks. Aster has helped save my empire from the brink of collapse. I owe her my life and so do my loyal heirs, my soldiers, and my citizens who she had treated with nothing but kindness.She has told me stories of what happens when foreigners come to your home. And I know I can only wish that whoever follows her to the isle may be welcomed with open wings instead of being put to death, for I know how it feels to want to kill your enemies and protect your home.Now when I say this, I speak for my empire and only my empire when I say you are welcomed here. The docks are open for all dragons if you were to allow them to come. We here in the Burning empire are open to rekindling our old alliance. But now we can hold our own and fight by your side instead of cower.With a heavy heart I pray that the sun guides Aster back to me. I will await her return to me preferably in life rather than death. And perhaps wait for the return of dragons to the mainland.With the deepest of respect for what you choose,Empress ErosaHigh General LeonHigh General GriveHigh General KummaHigh General SayierClementine folded the letter up and looked lost in her own head.“They… they want us back?” The GreenWing king whispered to himself.The dragons slowly began to talk, which got louder and louder. “Spare her!” She heard a voice yelled. “I wanna see the mainland!” Another whined. “We can’t kill a queen!” Someone Protested.“FOOLS!!!!” The RedScale queen screamed at the top of her lungs. She lent over the edge of her booth, Almost tumbling out “it’s a LIE!!! Aster wrote it herself to get us all killed! She is a disloyal TRAITOR who is prioritizing the life of some cats who betrayed us! Who’s to say they won’t do it again!?”“You’re WRONG!!!” Aster screamed “she would never do that!” She went to rummage through the box of books and pulled out the most irreplaceable and valuable item she had.It was two long feathers in a thin glass and wood case “this is the most valuable part of Erosa! She ripped out her own tail feather for me!”“I don’t give two fat COCONUTS about some punie feather!” The queen snapped“But it means so much more than that!” Copper yelled back “er- your majesty! But tail feathers don’t grow back after being lost! When a Sphinx dies, only their closest loved ones will receive a feather as a thank you!”Grain took his own tail in his talon. He spread his tail feathers for them to see him point to a gap “I gave 3 of mine away to my family before I came here! So they could remember me!”“I’ve given away seven of mine!” Cocoa added“And both of these feathers aren’t for me.” Aster opened the case and held one feather up “this one is for the dragons!”Ohhhhh’s and ahhhhh’s rippled through the coliseum“I want to spare them!” The GreenWing princess who couldn’t be older than 12, said to her parents loud enough for all to hear. “We can’t just kill them!”“Be quiet! Let the adults handle this!” Her father spat“I chose mercy too!” The DeepEye prince said to his parents. His mother nodded while his father looked hurt.“We want death! The GreenWing king said grasping his wife’s talon“What?! No I don’t!” The GreenWing queen huffed as she snatched it away“Death is the only right answer!” The RidgeBack princess said“The RedScales vote Death for the traitor and her accomplices!” The queen bellowed “isn’t that right?” She snarled to the king and her daughter“… I just think-“ the king began“There is nothing to think about!” She roared “that dragon-““I Vote mercy!” Her daughter yelled and “maybe it's time for change! For peace-“She slapped her across her face and screamed “TERRIBLE!!! You’re weak just like your father!”“KEEP YOUR BLOODY TALONS OFF OF HER!!!” The king screamed before slamming her to the ground. The royals craned their heads in horror and flew over to stop the fight. Guards flew in and broke the two up with minor injuries on all parts.“ORDER! We must have order!” Clementine shouted as she flew in front of the royals “this isn’t how we vote! And you know it! We will vote with raised talons!”“Yes! this is pure disorder!” The Deep queen glared at the Red queen who was being restrained.“I vote for death!” The Ridge king raised his talon. The Deep king, Green king, Bright king and queen, Ridge princess, and the Red queen raised a talon in addition“We vote mercy!” The Green queen cried. The Deep prince and queen, Green princess, the Red king and princess raised a talon“That’s seven and… seven.” Clementine faltered“You're the deciding vote!” The deep king said“Make the right chose” the Bright king glaredAster watched as the princess turned around and looked to her people, then to the sphinxes, then to her. She clutched her tail in her hands in anticipation as Her life flashed before her eyes.Her mother and Navel came to mind. Were they in the audience right now? About to see her fate unfold? Erosa was still waiting for her, and so were her heirs. Would she wait forever until they meet in the GreatOasis? Or would they meet again and feel her fur against her scales?”“The royals have decided,” Clem spoke with her chest “that in the case of Aster and her sphinxes from the mainland, that the royals have wished for MERCY!”
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Merlot found herself flying above the ships traveling the bottomless stretch. Her fiery orange wings felt the hot sun beating down on them. Her yellow-green eyes counted the seven ships that were tied together with thick ropes. On their decks she watched dragons of all colors, the brightest yellows to the dullest of purples, share food and converse together.They had set sail for the mainland six months ago now. She was to be the first of the RedScales in three thousand years to set foot on desert sand. To see where mainlanders came from. To see the home her kind was robbed of so long ago. Her parents didn’t want their future queen to go. “What if she died, or got hurt?” her parents had asked.Her mother screamed and yelled so many things like “I’ll NEVER let you be queen if you go!” And “you’ll be DEAD to us!”. She couldn’t help but scream back. She screamed until her throat hurt and chest heaved. Her mother always made her so angry. And always in front if so many people.That’s what gave her her reputation. Merlot, the RedScale princess of anger. Just like her mother.But her father wasn’t like her. Always so calm and reasonable. But still he begged “don’t go! You're too important to lose!” And “we'll all miss you!”. She was always tempted to yell and scream at him, but she held her tongue. He never screamed at her a day in her life.She tried to follow in her fathers path of peace and calm, but her mother always made it so hard. Always making her so mad. She doesn't want to be like her at all. But when she yelled, she could hear her voice in hers. and when she looked in the mirror, she could see her face looking back. That also made her mad. A lot of things made her mad.But even through her mothers rage and her fathers calm, she couldn’t convince either of them to let her go. So as a last resort, she ran away. When your family has its own makeup line, it’s easy to color your scales differently and fade into the public.But that wasn’t the only reason she left. She had a fiancé waiting for her talon in marriage. Some guy named Zinnia who was also all about peace and love. Like her father times ten. A part of her couldn’t stand him. And she hated what they were going to be. A calm sweet king and a furious queen.She didn’t want to become her mother. And if it meant risking your life on the mainland? Then so be it.She spotted a vibrant boat that looked so full of junk that I might sink at any moment. She landed on its dock, and stood up straight and tried to look regal and important. She knocked on its door and waited for an answer.When the door opened, she came face to face with the captain of this voyage. Her round plump turquoise scaled face was covered in makeup of deep blues and sweet greens. Her two yellow eyes met hers and smiled“Oh hey Merlot! What’s going on?” Aster askedShe wanted to snap and say “that’s PRINCESS Merlot to you!” But she caught herself before she could say it. “Where are we on the map to the main land?” She said insteadAster's eyes lit up “were very close! Ohhh, don’t you feel the desert sun on your wings? It’s so hot!” She beamed “we should get there today!”“Today? Why didn’t you say something sooner? Why didn’t you tell me?” Merlot pressed“Eeeyy, sorry! I was just so excited, I just HAD to get my makeup ready! Btw, how does it look?” Aster asked as she got uncomfortably close to her face.“You look fine, but telling everyone we’re here is way more important than doing your makeup!”Aster sighed “yeah, it’s just, I wanna look my best for Erosa!”“I’m sure she doesn’t care.” She rolled her eyes. It was always about Aster and that damned cat thing. She never understood the appeal of traveling half a year just to see her“Asterrrrrrr!!! Who’s at the doooooorrrr?????” A younger voice called from inside her ship“It’s Merlot! Shes asking about when we’re getting to the mainland!” She yelled backSoon she heard little scampering sounds as the BrightHorn princess came to the front door. Rich and intricate red eyeliner circled her eyes in a way that made them pop. Clementine looked to the older royal and smiled “hey”“Who did your makeup?” Merlot asked“I did!” Aster waved “Clem wanted to look nice too.”“You know Merly, I think you could use some.” Clem teased “you’re looking a little dull today.”“No I DONT!” She snapped “I look vibrant everyday!!!”“I think what she’s trying to say is that she wants you to look good too!” Aster assured her “if you want, I could do it for you?”“Not what I said but pop off ig.” Clem smirked and she slipped by them and took to the sky before Merlot could scream at her again“Soooo do you want makeup oooorrr…”“FINE.” Merlot said as she stormed he way into her ship.In Asters home, There was hardly any space. Boxes, crates, and barrels filled the space. Decorations lined the walls and anywhere the princess could see. All gifts Given to her before they left the isles to take to the mainland. Through the mass of things, she could still point out the things Given to her by the sphinxes when she left them.Aster came from behind her and directed her to her booth that seemed to be the only place where things weren’t stacked on top of. Instead, face paints and powders and creams were neatly laid out. Merlot sat down and aster held out a color pallet for her to choose from.Soon the older dragon took a brush into her talons, dipped it into a yellow paint and began to line it under her eye“Aster, can I ask you something?” Merlot asked“Yeah, go ahead.”“Why do you want to see Erosa so bad? Isn’t she just your wife?”“Well uhh- you just answered your own question.” Aster said “she’s my wife, that’s why.”“But isn’t this all a little much? I’m sure she’s fine without you there with her.”Aster drew back, looking offended “Well maybe, but I kinda hope she misses me like how I miss her.”“But why would she though?”Merlot felt the brush lift away from her face. When she opened her eyes, she saw Aster scowling at her “what do you mean ‘why would she’?” She snarled“Oh get your tail out of a knot! You’re acting like marriage is soooooo serious.” Merlot countered “we get it. You’re ‘empress’ or whatever, why do you care if she cares about you?”“What???” Aster looked genuinely confused“You married her for her power and status, so why would she care?” She spelled out“Wha- why would you think I would marry her for that?”“Because that’s why people get married! royalty get married to others for status and power and for the royal name.”There was a pause“Wait, really???” Aster looked dumbfounded“YES!!! You think my parents are together cuz they love each other? They HATE each other!” Merlot exsaperated “all the kings and queens don’t like each other! They just make themselves look happy for the public.”“WHAT?!?!” Aster yelledShe relised she had said too much “Oh uhhhh- the public can’t know about that. And that’s a royal order!”Aster leaned in to continue doing her makeup “there were rumors about that and the RedScales, but I never thought I was true. Let alone applied to everyone else! That must really… suck.”“Yeah I guess.” Merlot shrugged “but that’s just how things have to be.”“That’s not true.” Aster assured“Oh yeah? Do you really think that all the past RedScales just so happened to have red scales? Us heirs aren’t allowed to choose who we get married to. Our parents chose who would make the prettiest dragonets that would match the family name.”“The family name?”“Big falling coconuts, are you dense?” Merlot groaned “the royal name! All the royals have to be like their name! If a dragon doesn’t fit the name then they can’t be royalty.”“Is that like a law?”“No, it’s more of an unspoken rule.” She shrugged “I hate that rule.”From there, there was silence. She didn’t believe that they got married because they liked each other. That just sounded dumb. Dragons got married to stay in contact while raising dragonets. Of course there were love stories about couples dying for each other, but those were blown out of proportion!Erosa did it for power. She just knew it! Having dragons at her disposal would make her the strongest person on the mainland. Maybe she lied to Aster about her offer. Or was promised to be their queen after she endlaved them all! Maybe that’s why she wanted to get back to her so badly, to sit in her throne and command them around!That thought made her furiousShe would never let that happen. She is a RedScale. Her family was chosen three thousand years ago to protect her kind from mainlanders. She won’t ever let some puny blue dragon change that. Aster might be in charge of the voyage, but she was the true leader of all the dragons. She won’t let them be enslaved. She put her life on that.She didn’t know how much time passed while she sat there. But when she was done Aster handed her a mirror covered in tiny little intricate details that not even the most skilled dragon could make.She had bright yellow and orange paint around her eyes. She had tear drop shaped eyebrows that led into dots. The pair circled her eyes In a way that made them look bigger and droopy like she was sad. A line ran from her forehead to her nose that matched the lipstick around her mouth“How does it look? Do you like it?” Aster asked“It’s… impressive.” Merlot said as she admired herself “and to think you became a journalist.”“Erosa said the same thing the first time I did her make up, lol”Then there was a knock at the door. When aster opened it she smiled “oh hey Navel!”“We see land!” He shouted “what do we do?!?”“HUHHHH?!?!?!? Already???” She blurted “go tell everyone to get ready and to follow my lead!”Navel nodded and flew away“Land?” Merlot’s ears perked up. She turned around and looked out the window behind her. In the distance she could see a distant coastline that look like a beach that went on forever. She even saw little ships not to far awayShe tried to turn to Aster, but she had already gone outside. Merlot went to the deck and took the ladder to the part where the starting wheel was. She was leaning over the edge of the railing staring out to the land coming into view. Merlot stood beside her and watched alongside“Aster, what do we do?” The princess asked“When we start getting close to the ships docked at the shore, drop the anchors.” Her words full of purpose “I’ll come back and tell everyone when to fly in”Aster took to the sky so forcefully, it rocked the boat. “I have to go, they’re all waiting for me!” And like that she turned around and flew as fast as she could to shore.Clementine landed behind her, eyes glued to the dragon flying away “what’s going on? Are we leaving now?”“No, she said we have to sail to the shore first” she pointed to the land “tell everyone to raise their sails and point them north!”Clem nodded and flew offMerlot took the ship's helm in her talons and turned the sails so that the wind caught them. She watched as Aster’s scales mixed into the sky until she couldn’t see her.It was agonizing waiting to get close enough to drop the anchors but soon they did. The ships in front of them were dwarfed in size. Not a single boat home in sight. All just small vessels for fishing. Further away, she could see buildings made from brick and stone. Smooth and bare walls devoid of plant life or color.she could see them now. So many sphinxes flew in the sky and gravitated to one spot. That’s where Aster was. Being sawarmed from all around. Was it an attack? Was she being killed? She had to know.she couldn’t wait any longer. Merlot spread her wings and leaped to the sky. She felt the wind catch beneath her wings and guide her towards the sandy landscape.When her talons touched the sand and stones, she felt this heat radiating from it that singe her scales. She sneezed out the dust she had kicked up out of her nose. Already she felt the sun bake her back and the dry air fill her lungs. This really was nothing like home“Another dragon!!!” A voice yelledShe looked over to the little dusty orange Sphinx pointing to her. Then again, all the sphinxes are little to her. Soon a crowd began to form around her. She saw sphinxes of all different shades of browns of all ages gathering on the ground and sky.Merlot stood to her full height and tucked in her wings so that she looked impressive instead of uncomfortable. Look threatening look mean. If she swung around, how many could she take out with her tail? Could a swat with her wings kill them?She glared her teeth and flexed her claws. They all took a step back and kept their eyes on her. “This one is scary!” One said to another. But instead of outright fear like she hoped, they looked conserned and curious at the same time.Soon someone so little and fuzzy walked up to her. Last time she checked, sphinxes were supposed to have feathers, not whatever fuzz this tiny one had around its young face “who are you?” They askedShe looked them in the eyes and said “I am Princess Merlot, heir to the RedScale throne.” She boomed for all to hear. Her words were met with awes and oohhhh as the crowd thickened “I have come with Aster, where is she?” She barked“Over there!” “Down the street!” “Where everyone else is!” The sphinxes answered her while pointing and gesturingshe grumbled (almost a growl ) before walking away, not bothering to slow her pace so they could move out her way. They all dashed out of her path in time though. Everyone followed her and trotted by her side as she made her way through the narrow road in a rush. It felt weird walking out in the open without royal guards keeping people away. But their were guards around, or that’s what she thought they were. They wore leather helmets with wooden spears and watch in shock as she walked by. Did they have no etiquette for royals here?It wasn’t long until she got to her. Aster stood in what looked to be a shopping center surrounded by at least a hundred sphinxes some of which were clambering over her tail and feeling her wings. she heard their little voices say “our dragon is back!” “She’s alive!” “I wonder if she still has our gifts!”“Hi everyone! It’s been so long since I’ve seen you all!” She gushed “I’m so happy to be back!”Ah. So she wasn’t under attack.But all attention was immediately shifted on Merlot when they noticed her, including Asters when she noticed her. She met her with a displeased look. The blue dragon slowly stepped away from the adoring crowd, giving them ample time to get away so she didn’t step on them“I told you to wait with the ship!” Aster whined“I wanted to see if you were all right.” She countered “You were getting swarmed!”“I told you to wait!” Aster repeated angrily“You don’t tell me what to do!” Merlot yelled in her face “don’t you forget who I-“Suddenly from the crowd, the sphinxes in leather helmets and spears came out and stood between Merlot and Aster“That is not how you speak to lady Aster!” One shouted to Merlot, spear pointed towards her. The rest wasn't as courageous as the one who spoke, opting to stand closer to AsterThe princess stood there shocked and a little appalled that someone would talk back to her. Especially a lowly soldier. Could he not tell by her scales and the way she stood that she was royalty? Well, no. She guessed they wouldn’t know who she was, and based off their behavior, would they even care? Good qualities for a loyal soldier, yes, but she was still pissed“Excuse me?” Merlot snarled as she stepped closer. She could take them in a fight easily. She could rip him in half-“HEY!!!” Aster snapped “both of you be nice! Merlot is a friend to the Empire and a threat to no one!”The soldiers looked to Aster then back to Merlot then bowed. They said “yes ma’am. Sorry ma’am.” To both Before retreating back to the mass.“They take orders from you?” Merlot asked, surprised“Of course they do, Unless They want to answer to Erosa that is.” Aster looked down to the sphinxes “ya know, where is she?”“Clear the area!” Called from above. They all looked up to see a smooth wing soldier circling overhead “the empress is coming! Clear the area immediately!”The sphinxes gasped and ushered themselves into nearby alley ways, shops, or flew into the air To make way for their rulers' arrival.”WHAT?!” Aster's face lit up with excitement and panic as she looked to Merlot. she rushed up to her and took her by the shoulders “How’s my makeup??? Do I have sand on me, or dust? Do I look good???”“You look fine!” She squawked “and don’t grab me.” And pushed her awayThere was a sound. Almost like a rumble of talon steps. The two dragons craned their heads to look up hill. a mass of heavily armored soldiers rushing towards them at full speed. But one stood out. Their sandy brown body was bare of protective gear other than a sling over one wing. They lead with a passionate stride that moved faster than their army could keep upMerlot drew back. Who were they? Are they being attacked? Why are there SO MANY????“EROSA!!!” Aster screamed with an excitement Merlot had never heard before. She ran full speed to the mass like her life depended on itWhen Erosa got near, she leaped into the air and extended her wings. Her talons outstretched as she dove for her as Aster did the same. When they collided Aster wrapped her wings around her as she tumbled to the ground in a protective ball.The soldiers quickly surrounded the two in a ring as they watched Aster stand. Merlot jogged over and saw the dragon fold back her wings as Erosa clung onto her neck in a desperate hug.The sphinxes talons trembled as she heard her weep into the dragon’s chest. Tears ran down Asters snout that mixed the blues and green colors she had painted.“I’m- so happy to -see you!” Aster choked between sobs“I thought they'd kill you!” Erosa cried “thank the sun and moon your back!”The empress clambered her way up to her face and pressed her forehead to hers. Together they whispered “I love you” and “I missed you” over and over to each other. Other soldiers smiled and whispered to another about how much happier the empress would be now.Merlot looked on to the display. But it wasn’t a display. It was real. So real.She reamered a stunt her parents had pulled about a year ago. Her mother would get mad over something just for her father to rush in and take her talon in his and tell her that everything would be okay. Her mother would lean into him and say “I’d be a mess without you” or something along those lines.But that was a stunt. A carefully executed display of “love” to combat any rumors about them.This had to be the same. Right?Aster pulled away and said “I have someone here to see you!” Before gesturing to Merlot with her wing. After a final kiss, Aster put down Erosa. Her face was covered in the mess that was Aster's makeup.She fixed her frazzled hair and tucked her wing back into its sling. On her two hind legs, she stood to her full height. She sauntered over to Merlot and casually stuck out her talon “I’m sorry this is how you first meet me, but Welcome to the Burning Empire” she smiled in a genuine awkward way the princess had never seen from another ruler “I’m Empress Erosa, ruler of the Empire. And you are?”A part of her couldn’t believe that THIS was the oh so amazing and awesome Erosa she had heard stories about. Aster had told her many tales about her. How angry and scary she was. How her gaze made people freeze up or and how everyone bowed to her feet. This was the one to murder her predecessor? The highly esteemed empress who saved this bland and cramped place?The one with smeared paint on her face?Merlot gently took her talon and shook it, lightly feeling the gold band around one of her digits “I’m princess Merlot, heir to the RedScale throne”“oh!” Her eyes went wide and she gripped her talon harder with a strength she hadn’t expected from someone so thin “well it’s a pleasure to have you here, your highness!”“I’ve heard many great things about you, courtesy of Aster” she said regally“And I’ve heard things about you too, also from Aster” Erosa put her other talon over merlots “it’s a pleasure to have you and your subjects here.” She leaned in closer and said quietly “Speaking of subjects, how many are we talking here?”“Twenty three dragons.” She replied pulling her talon away“Twenty three!” The crowd repeated in shock“Oh okay, I can handle that.” Erosa nodded to herself “how many camels is that?”“Do you want to meet them?” Aster piped up “there waiting over near the dock” she pointed to the ocean. Looking back, Merlot could see colorful shapes in the air and small boats where there weren't before“I guess I can’t leave them waiting another six months, now can I?” Erosa joked as she fell back to walking on all fours“Soldiers!” Erosa said with authority. Their conversations stopped. They stood up straight and looked to their leader. “Aster and I will lead the formation with princess Merlot beside us. spears at your side but not ready. Look strong NOT menacing, we don’t want to leave a bad impression. UNDERSTOOD?”“MA’AM YES MA’AM!!!” The soldiers yelled in unison“In formation!” She yelled. The soldiers scrambled into a V formation, highest ranking members in the front with lowers in the back. Aster and Erosa made their way to the front. Merlot followed behind them in a bit of shock. She guess that furiosus fire still burned inside herMerlot leaned down to Erosa “Aster has told me you cannot fly, is that true?” She couldn’t imagine not being able to fly. Having crisp air flow over your scales. Stretching your wings and the feeling of freedom. Also a great stress reliever after getting into an argument“That’s right” she nodded and looked down to her wing sling “my wing isn’t as strong as it used to be.”“Then how will you get to the shore?”“I’ll carry her!” Burst Aster “like how I always did.”“Wait, you really carried her? Like, in your talons?” Yes. Aster had told her that before. But she imagined a lavish carriage covered in flowers and expensive cloth. She’s be so embarrassed if someone had the carry her around“Yeah, didn’t I tell you that?” She said as she scooped up Erosa and held her close to her chest“Well usually, she had a bag that I would lie in.” Erosa shrugged “But this works just fine”Scratch that, sitting in a bag sounds WAY worse.“Their ready when you are.” The sphinx saidAster nodded and spread her wings, the ruffled sounds of the soldiers' wings opening filled her ears. Merlot followed suit. with a running start she leaped into the air and one after another, The sphinxes did as well.Together they sored over the sea side buildings. Other sphinxes seesmed to join in the flight at a distance. Odd things sphinxes were. Including themselves with diplomatic discussions without their ruler’s permission. Though she assumed that maybe she would be fine with itWhen they drew near, she could see dragons peaking over the edges of their homes, looking down to the boats below. The sphinxes looked up to them with the same sense of aweMerlot and Aster landed on the deck of the captain’s ship, which was Asters, while everyone else stayed in the air. She let down Erosa where she watched nosey little Clematine poke her head from behind the strearing wheel. From there, other heads made an appearance like Navel’s peeking from behind the sails with about five other faces.“All of you get down from there NOW!” Merlot snapped. There was nothing more embarrassing than seeing fully grown dragons hiding like children. EXSPECALY if front of a very important person who might want to enslave them.Clementine stood “hello…” she said weakly “who are all of you?”“Don’t be scared,” Erosa asuered “they won’t hurt you. They’re Just here for my safety.”Navel landed on the deck “Are you Erosa? The queen?”Aster picked her back up and landed next to them to their astonishment “the one and only!” The dragon said. Instead of flying, Merlot took the ladder.“Uh, hey.” She rubbed the back of her neck “Im princes Clementine, heir to the BrightHorn throne.” She she offered to shake her talon. This had to have been the shyist Merlot has ever seen herErosa took up her offer “Another princess! Didn’t think there’d be two of you, unless…” she trailed off“Nope, just me and Merlot. And Aster too I guess?”Dragons slowly began to come over to the ship to see what was going on. Erosa stepped forward to the growing crowd the easily towered over her. She cleard her throat. “Dragons of the isles! It’s is our pleasure to have you here in the empire. You are welcome to the palace at anytime and don’t be afraid to come to me for any reason.” She bowed “we are so greatful you have decided to spend your time with us. We welcome you for however long you stay.”She rose her head as she continued “my soldiers will help clear the docks for you to safely dock and from there they will be guarded at all times so you possessions are safe.”“Wait, we will-?” A soldier asked before being hit with someone’s wing“We can go to your palace?” Merlot asked “any of us? with no fee?“Of course, just like any other citizen.” Erosa respondedThat was soooo weird. The royals often had dragons pay to go on a tour through the palace. So they could see paintings and artifacts that were passed down through the generations. Her family even had a painting made by Agdin herself. It was of her great great great great (waaaay to many greats) grandfather who was alive at the time when it was made.“Can we go there now?” Clementine asked“Well I don’t see why not.” Erosa shrugged “I do have some people there who need to know about your arivle.”“Can I come too?” Navel sheepishly raised his talon “I’ve uh, never been in a palace before…”“Sure you can!” Aster as she threw her arm around his shoulders “I can finally show you all the things I’ve told you about!”This felt like a trap! Take the most valuable dragons (including Navel) to the most guarded place in the empire and hold them for ransom! Her parents would probably have to pay a fortune to get her back. Then her mother would chew her out about it which is like ugghhhhhhhhBut she vowed to protect these dragons with her life, which is URRRUUUYGGHHHH!!! So she had to go with them to stop them from getting a tour of the dungeon. So Erosa can’t go “all right get in :D” with a million of her little soldiers. She was of royal blood AND older, so that made her better than stupid Clementine or Aster, so she technically had the most authority in this situation.Well yeah, she could just forbid them from going. But what if Erosa catches on? What if this murderous royalty killing beast is still there? Hidden under her casual attitude she’s just itching to get chains on our ankles JUST like the history books! Maybe stuff us and hang us on her wall or turn us into dragon skin boots?She had to lie low. Can’t let her know what she’s thinking“I’m coming too.” Merlot added“Then let's go!” Erosa turned around to face her soldiers and yelled “get these guys docked and stay until you get further instructions. and the rest of you, yeah, you randos who joined cuz y’all are nosy, go back to where you came from.”There was a mix of words like “yes your highness!” “I don’t know how to dock a ship” “but I had things planned for today…” “I’m not nosy, I’m just… curious”“I’ll lead the way!” Aster said as she scooped up Erosa “since I know this place like the back of my talon.”Soon they were in the air. In a diamond formation with Aster in the front, Merlot and Clementine on the sides, and Navel in the back.Clementine's light orange wing brushed Merlot’s “hey, what do you think of this place?”Merlot gazed down at the tight streets and open shopping centers. Everything was all brown and dusty and bland. And the smooth mud and brick structures that made up the empire. “It reminds me of the cargo homes in the DeepEye tropic. Shabby and dirty.”“I think it looks worse. Like, where’s the color? The plants? There’s not a tree in sight!”“Ugh, and don’t mention how dry it is!”“I guess this is what a desert is” Clem shrugged “or at least how Copper described it
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It was so much cooler in the desert when it wasn’t day. A stark difference to the tropical home of the Isles. Over there, it was humid and warm all day and year. There was a crispness to the dry air that made Merlot tug her cape around herself. Well it wasn’t exactly a cape, more like a thick blanket she had tied around her neck.She stood on Aster's ship, and Before her was the burning empire. It’s mud and brick buildings now glowed with lights that gave the place a warm ambiance. Sphinxes walked the beach with warm fabrics of scarves, hoods, and shoulder drapes. They can in an array of colors and styles, tha vaguely resembled the fashion of of the islesThough they weren't the only sphinxes out tonight…She scowled at the sphinxes below, digging her claws into the wooden spear that she held. On the shore were protesters with their signs and torches. They chanted words of hate against the dragons like “go back to where you came from!” “We don’t welcome you here!” “This is our land!”. Three days they’ve been here. The princess tracked every waved flame above their heads with a sense of dread.But between her and the protesters was a small army. They called themselves “sharp eye soldiers”. But it didn’t matter whatever rinky dinky thing they called themselves. All she saw was sphinxes outside her citizens homes. And that made her more than mad.Though they weren’t defenseless. Thankfully, all dragons here have served in the army at least once before. She had half her dragons post themselves out on their decks, sharpened wooden spears in talon and whatever thick pieces of clothing they had that could be used in the place of armor. The other half were sleeping waiting their turn for the day shift.This was a new development Merlot had ordered as self appointed leader of their trip. They needed to be prepared to defend themselves at all times. Yes sphinxes were little and weak, but a thousand of them could kill all twenty three dragons with ease. They had to be prepared. Ready to fight. Ready to rip and tear. For blood to be spilled and tears shed. Ready to kill and survive.But things haven’t gotten to that point yet. For now, there is calm. A deafening calmness that filled Merlots head. How long would this last until they are forced to act? What would happen after? Would they all make it home one day? She didn’t know. But the other dragons thought she was “over reacting”Couldn’t they see the danger? Has this not all happened before? The protests. The armies. The hatred. Dragons not complying? Last time this all happened so many dragons died. Hundreds. Thousands. Millions dead!That’s why dragons lived in the isles. Chased from their home in what they now call “the Savana of yurth”. The home of countless generations of dragons, a home of endless knowledge and traditions and culture now viewed as nothing more than useless space. There was once bustling citys and towns forged by a shared alliance of dragons and sphinxes. What once was a need for water bloomed into a love for jewelry and all things beautiful.Now nothing more than graves and ruins.Her brow furrowed as she continued to stare at the sphinxes. An ache of betrayal sat heavy in her gut, or that’s what she thought I was. They stood by the dragons sides for over one hundred years. when their blood was spilled infront of them as they begged for help, they turned tail and fled to this place. Where sand stretched to the horizon. where it hardly rained. Where the sun burnt their backs. Where the nights were so cold.With a shutter, she pulled her cape around herself. It looked like they got the short end of the stick. While dragons got fruit, flowers, and a jungle all to themselves. While the sphinxes got this endless beach. It almost brought a smile to her face. Almost.Though she worried that their luxurious lives had made them soft. Had they forgotten what they had to go through to give themselves that life? And who cases them to go through that hardship? Well she knew. She spent a chunk of her life reading about the history of the dragons. She knew all to well.How her ancestors, the past kings and queens of the RedScale throne, had done for her people. How they kept everyone together and prevented wars for the past three thousand years. She could do it too. And she was!Now that made her smile. It ran in her blood just like how it did for her father, and her grandmother, and her great grandmother, and so on and so forth. She could do it, and she knew she could.But this felt futile. Her and her miniature army of dragons who didn’t realy care for what was happening. Even if the sphinxes charged them, set their ships a blaze, and threw them into cages, they couldn't stop them. At most they’d all die trying.But they had to try. Just like how all of their ancestors did all those years ago. They were the reason they were all here today. Their need for a new home, the ambition of a better tomorrow, hope was what they had. And she needs to have that tooBut hope is nothing without action. And if action ment wooden spears and thick clothes and staying up all night? then hell yeah.“Hey!” A voice called from below “excuse me! Comping through!”Merlot scurried to the railing of the ship and peered down to the see what was going on. It was a Sphinx in a poncho and a hooded hat making their way through the blockade of soldiers.Merlot growled at the sight. She whipped around and yelled “SOLDIERS!!! Captain’s deck, NOW!”Soon a flock that was eleven dragons strong soared in and landed in a way that made the ship rock. Navel, who of which actually wore a proper chest peice and helmet (that “definitely weren’t stolen” according to him) stepped forward. “Yes your majesty?”Merlot eyed the way he held his spear in his talons and his cowardly posture. “We have a Sphinx aproching us!” She snarledHe awkwardly looked behind her for a moment then fixed his eyes back on her “…okay?” He shrugged“And I don’t want them to think that they can try anything!” She snapped “Who knows why they’re here?”Navel looked behind her again“Why do you keep doing that?” She said as he lightly thrusted her spear at him in a way that made the nervous dragon jump back “what are you looking at?”She turned her head around. What silently sat behind her was the poncho Sphinx patiently waiting. Its face was shrouded in shadows as its feathered tail curled around its talons, watching her intently.she jumped back in fear and readied her spear with a tremble in her grip. “WHO ARE YOU?!” Merlot screeched with a cracked voice that made her powerful voice fall apart“High general Grive, your majesty” he bowed down. when he righted himself, he fixed his hat in way that now properly showed his face “apologies for disturbing your brooding”“B-Brooding?!” She stuttered “I wasn’t doing that!”“Uh, yeah you were.”“watch who you’re talking to, sphinx!” She thrusted her spear towards him, but didn’t flinch. Maybe he knew she was bluffing.“SoRrY yoUR MaJEstY” Grive said slowly with a stupid look on his face. The dragons held their talons to their snouts to hide their laughter. before Merlot could figure out something to say, Grive continued“Look, I’m not working right now, so I don’t have to be cordial with you. But Erosa wanted me to do her a favor.”“A favor from the empress herself…” Merlot echoed with slitted eyes.She doesn’t trust Erosa. Not a single scale across her body felt it could trust her. She wouldn’t make the same mistake her ancestors did three thousand years ago. Sphinxes like you until things get hard. Then they ditch you. And she wouldn’t be caught dead trusting one of her closest associates either.She crept forward, spear gripped so tightly that it might break “what kind of favor?” She hissedGive straightened up, now realizing that the reality of a spear jutting out from his chest was a possibility. “It’s a letter she wrote for you.” He said as he pulled back his poncho to reveal a small bag. He opened the bag and slowly pulled out An envelope that mirrored the same envelope Aster had shown to the dragons.“Navel, take the letter and read it aloud.” She ordered without looking away from the SphinxThe yellow-green dragon stepped forward and picked the envelope from Grive’s talons. The letter had a brown wax seal with the logo of the palace and the sun engraved on it. He slowly opened the envelope, with a newly cleared throat he read:September 28th 6,095Letter addressed too princess Merlot Of the RedScalesHello Merlot, I hope Grive hasn’t woken you from your sleep. I also hope he’s being nice, since I woke him from his. I humbly summon you to the palace tonight because I wish to speak with you. Aster had told me of your last outing together and it worries me. Come see me at your leisure any day or time of your chosing. Bring who you please as well.Humbly, Empress Erosa“A summon to the palace?” Merlot asked“Your majesty, there’s a second letter in here” he pulled out a second, notably smaller, paper. “And it’s addressed to Grive, from Kuuma.” He finished as he leaned down to give it to the Sphinx“Kuuma?” He said as he unfolded to letter“Read it aloud” Merlot orderedSeptember 28th 6,095Letter addressed to Grive, high general of the sharp eyesHiiiiiii it’s your #1 pal! I hope this letter woke you up!I saw you in your new poncho and I’m just dying to know where you got it from! I want to know who made it so I can throw them in jail and cut off their talons so they never get the chance to to make another one of those god awful things again! It’s for the betterment of the Empire.and my eyesAnd I’m considering getting Erosa to make that hood of yours illegal too. SPECIFICALLY YOURS. With someone with such sharp eyes, you seem to be blind when it comes to fashion.Just to spite you, Kuuma“She says that like I didn’t make these clothes myself!” He said to the letter as he balled it up with a grumble. That had to have been the most emotion he’s shown tonight. “She's just mad that I can knit better than her.” He huffed“Wait,” Merlot paused “aren’t you the leader of the sphinxes down there?” She gestured to the shore“Of the soldiers, yeah?” Grive shrugged“Tell them to make those protesters go away!”“Nah,”“Excuse me?”“Its against the law to arrest protesters as long as they are not being destructive or aggressive” it sounded like he was quoting from a book. “The most I can do is tell them to put out their fires cuz that is kinda excessive.”“Then go do that!” She stamped her foot“Yeah sure.” He took flight but before he flew off he said “and when you get there tonight, tell Erosa I said hi. And tell Aster she owes me.”and he soon sored down to the shore
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I am a monster.Or, at least, that’s what they think of me.I look at myself in the mirror and think “okay, they might be right, because I look nothing like them.” I look at my face sideways and feel the length of my snout. From the space between my eyes, the arch of my nose, and to its tip.It's too long.I drew a line from my lips to my beard with my nail. I felt my eyebrows, the hair on my pointed ears, the bags under my eyes, and the hair on my head. I put my hands to my chest and felt every hair down to my hips, then traced the stretch marks back up to my chestAnd How my brown skin, that’s speckled in marks, dips where my ribs end. The point of my shoulders and the width of my arms. How my spine pokes out from my back and leads down to my tail.I think freak is a better way to describe meMonsters are terrible creatures. Dangerous. Aggressive. Grotesque. but I can’t be that. I’m not that.I am a werewolf. NOT a monsterI got my uniform from my closet and laid it on my bed. I slipped my arms into my robes sleeves and pulled its cuffs so that I could see my hands. I’d rather not let others see them though, they say they’re weird. I slowly buttoned the shiny black buttons from its bottom all the way up to my neck. I fixed my veil and my collar then tied the sash around my waist so that it was flush to my stomach. Then I took the sash off and put it back on, but looser this time. I tied the laces of my shoes. I don’t like these shoes, they feel so loud.When I was done I stepped back in front of my mirror and viewed myself. I wore a cassock that didn't feel right to me. I felt it’s deep black fabric made of wool between my fingertips. It’s expensive, made just for me. From the finest quality the average man couldn’t afford.I don’t deserve this.I smooth out its wrinkles and fixed it so it looked its best. I turned to my side and fixed my posture. I took in a deep breath and smiled at myself. I made sure my eyes were kind and that my smile didn’t show my teeth, people don’t like my teeth.“My name is Yahir, and I am the pastor of this church. It’s nice seeing you all again.” I said to my reflection. I tell myself that everyday before work. Is it true? I am Yahir and I am a pastor and this is my church. But I hate seeing the people of this village, I really do.And they think the same way about me. I think that’s obvious. But I can't make it obvious that I know or that I feel the same way. I’d rather not deal with the consequences of that. Whatever those may beBut it’s a privilege to be here, in my position. No one of my kind gets this kind of opportunity. I am the exception NOT the rule. I need to remember that always.I took the holy book from my table and felt its leather cover with its title engraved with gold foil. It’s pages had yellowed with age and as far as I knew, this book is much older than me. Maybe even older than the pastor before me.If I could, I’d spend all day in my room.But something allures me. It’s not today's sermon. It’s not planning out this autumn's event. It’s definitely not seeing everyone. It’s a smell. I smell it from here.That’s what draws meI opened the door to my room and locked it behind me with a key. On the other side of the hallway was where the nuns' rooms were. They had five rooms and two nuns lived in each, so there are ten nuns in total. I don’t like them at all. I feel like that can be worse than the others. But they weren’t in there right now, they should be down stairs waiting for breakfastI walked down the stairs, letting my free hand graze the railing. There were paintings on the wall in fancy frames. Most were depictions of stories in the holy book, I’d know, I’ve read this book from cover to cover at least 5 times. They were all so angelic and wispy. Wide open skies, lush grass, crystal clear water, but most importantly, the bright beautiful Sun herself.She was in every piece in some way. Sometimes she was a big bright orangey yellowy whitish orb in the sky. And in others, she was a tall woman whose hair was like sunbeams, her astral skin so light and so bright to the point where you couldn’t properly see the details of her face. Her Windy robes hardly hid her godly physique as she laid in her clouds watching over us.Her wings tucked neatly behind her shoulders. Not a single feather across her form was out of place. All neatly laid like a new road. She had a flat and straight nose and rounded shoulders. She looked so full of life and warmth and care.I envy herI wish I could be like her in every way. I wish I had a different face. What I would do to rid myself of this thin pointed body. For my tail to fall off along with the rest of my hair. All to be replaced with feathers and fair skin without a single blemish. I pray for wings to grow from my back, any shape, pattern, or color would do just fine.I wish I looked like everyone elseI wish I looked like a harpyI wish I looked like my godI should stop staring at her...I kept walking until I got to the bottom of the stairs. They lead into the nave of the church. Stained glass windows lined the walls. The sun’s light showed through and casted a blurred version of the figures in the glass over the church benches and the mosaic tile floors.On one side of the room was the altar. Where I take my stand in front of everyone and preach the word of our god. I felt the leather of the book in my hands and became overly aware that I held it for a reason. A mural was painted on the wall behind with the sun painted around a spotlight that’s meant to shine on meSomething I take pride in preaching, other times not. It depends on the day. Right now though? Not too happy about it but still don't despise it that much.On the opposite side of the room were the front doors to the church. Large carved wooden doors that looked older than this entire building. That leads outside, just like how front doors should.I made my way through the nave and into the dining room. When I walked into the space the nuns looked to me for a moment before continuing their conversation amongst each other. They sat at their table in front of a window where the sunlight lit up their black robes and veils. Their wings tucked behind them in a viage heart shape. They had colors of whites, browns, grays, and yellows in an array of speckles and bands that made each feather unique.I sat at my own table in the back, away from them and the light. They wouldn’t want me near them anyways. No one is very fond of me I’ve figured out. But it’s not so bad being away from them, I get to sit here and take in the smells of the morning without any interruptions. That’s so much better than talking to someone. Yup. Sure is.I closed my eyes and took in a deep breath. From here I could smell the batter and freshly cut fruit. Meat being cooked in a pan in vegetable oil, specially sausages, and even more specifically it was pork. The smell of batter being poured in a pan and being cooked. The new smell of a jug of orange being opened and being poured into glasses. The smell of coffee being brewed and tea being made. Blueberry, strawberries, and apples being cutI guess being a werewolf isn’t so bad when you get to experience this. My nose is so on point that I know exactly when breakfast is done.Like right now.From the kitchen came people who looked like me. Their faces weren't as long as mine. their tails longer or shorter. Their ears folded and rounded unlike mine. They carried trays of food. They wore plain white clothes that were tattered and stained from years of work and repairThey are weredogs. They are like me, but still not me. All of them were like distant cousins to me. But they aren’t my family. My family is long goneWhat they are, are slaves. My slaves technically. I inherited them when the pastor before me died. I don’t like to think of them like that. I was once them before, when I was younger. I know the struggleBut I’m not them. And they are not me.But I treat them nice. I like to give them cuts from the donations we get, part of my portion. Whenever events are scheduled, I roll up my sleeves and help.But nonetheless, I am their owner. I am NOT a friend. They do not see me as one. Yet they are the kindest to me. And I can’t help but return it.One came over, a young man, who’s hair was yellow and long. He laid a plate of pancakes, sausages, and a side of blueberries and strawberries, in front of me.“Excuse me,” I whispered only so he would hear“yes, father?” He asked in the same toneI leaned in, “Sneak me an apple too, please.”His eyes widened, then nodded “of course.” He said with a sense of acknowledgment before ambling away back to the kitchenThey sneak food all the time. I don’t mind. A missing apple or potato or carrot won’t be missed. Soon the dog came by again and dropped off the apple before going back to the dog house.I’m starving to say the least, but I hold myself to a standard and use my fork and knife. I start with the berries and lead to the cakes. No crumb left uneaten.Then I sink my teeth into my apple and cherish every bite. When I’m done, I eat it core. Seeds in all. Only leaving the stem behindI take my time with the sausage. It’s my favorite. The feel of my teeth puncturing is skin and having its grease spread across my tongue. I chew slowly until it goes bland, only then do I take another bite. It feels like in a matter of moments, I’m licking my plate clean of residues.And I still feel hungryBut I must hold myself above my hunger. I am a pastor, who doesn’t give way to the sin of greed. There is a standard to uphold. An extra fruit is the only vice I allow myself.It’s good to sit over here in my lonesome. I feel inhuman when I eat. I don’t want to be seen. I sit away from their prying eyes of my peers and my lord.In the shrouded corner. In my own space. In a world were I am not welcomed. In flesh I wish wasn’t my ownI feel like a monster.