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Author's infos Gender: Male Age: Secret Location: On my laptop |
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| Introduction: Spent ages writing this, I hope it a good read, enjoy. | ||
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My dreams have been getting progressively worse, constant images of wars and bloodied battle rage through my head, two armies, two kingdoms and two friends battle it out. It all happened the same way, every night. Right down to the fight between to the two friends and each night a different fight sequence is performed sometimes one person would win others the opposite. But before the final blow can be given I wake up. Every night its the same dream, some much blood is drawn in the dream its unreal, the roaring of courage deafened by the overpowering shriek of pain from the fallen. Having to witness such a sight is traumatic but the daily involvement in the dream has gone passed torturous. Opening my eyes, adjusting to the sights around me I try to remember how I got here, thinking back I tried to remember what I did yesterday, but nothing comes to me, my mind is a blank page all I know are names and my training. Oh how valuable my training feels right now, stuck in the cave, unable to do anything my body wracked with pain and unsteadiness. Climbing out of the mass of bodies I was covered in I allowed my eyes to focus, the walls were rock so was the floor in fact all around me was just rock. Taking my first steps again I made way up the slope heading towards the light. Gazing over the horizon from the slight vantage point I had, I could see everything, the capital, the forests, even the place I used to call home. Jasmine, you need to lie down a rather dreamy voice said behind the echo of the cave making the sound ever more enchanting, turning to find the source of the melodic voice my vision blurred, my brain in agony like a thousand daggers in my head. I dropped to my knees clutching my head, willing to the point of pleading for the pain to stop, writhing around on the floor my wish was granted, the pain so unbearable that I lose consciousness, the darkness sweeping over me like a thick fog like blanket. Coming to my aid the owner of the softest voice I had ever heard dragged me by my limbs into the cave, using her own pet they carried me deep into the cave. The distance to the entrance too far for me to walk in my brief moments of consciousness, propping me against the wall of the cave the girl sat down, exhausted from the day of fighting. When I awoke I yet again, searched my surroundings finding the light of the outside gone, the cold air of the night chilling me to the bone, Rest... the voice said pushing me back down whilst I tried to get up, What...What happened? I asked confused, my eyes focusing enough to see the girl in front of me, the long blonde curls of her hair draped elegantly down the most beautiful of armours, her eyes gazing into mine. The electrical blueness sending shivers down my spine, even the whites of her eyes were pearly white. Looking up at this girl I had never seen a more beautiful sight, not a single imperfection and the most flawless skin I had ever seen. Regrettably, I couldnt say the same for my one eyes their blackness only proof of my nature, I had no eyes, just empty sockets filled with black smoke. Never ending smoke that rose out my eye socket to my temples, only rising higher when I was angry and was the only evidence of my curse... I felt weak, weak and powerless. It was a feeling I hadnt felt in a long while and it was a feeling I didnt want to have, my life may not have been an easy one but I never wanted to feel weak again. My life was never one of glamour and luxury, I guess you could say I was an orphan, I never knew either of my parents, I was born in a back alley behind a tavern or all places. I can only presume what happens for those who knew are dead, only two things could have happened; my mother was raped and then left forced to carry out childbirth alone or my father died fighting a pointless war, either way my father left my mother... Alone and unprotected. With no father, my mother was forced to struggle alone, and on the day of my birth she abandoned me in that very alley. No man would deem her acceptable with a new born and to better her own life she had to be ready to birth for her new man. In times of war, soldiers are permitted to take supplies free of charge to better help the army win, by popular demand it was also decreed that a soldier can acquire the company of the prostitutes also free of charge in order to keep soldier moral up. But the soldiers were quick to abuse this law, the wars never ending and when one ends another starts. The soldier pillage drinking heavily and gorging themselves on all the food the villages had to offer before sleeping with all their prostitutes, with the stores penniless from no sales the women were forced into prostitution which only made things worse. The men were brutal, spending months away from women at a time they unleashed their frustrations in such a cruel manner it would be deemed torturous. As time went by women became weak, unable to resist and learning to just accept and hope to survive. The men put off by their admittance of defeat would find new ways to get a reaction from them. It started off being just one man leaving his mark on the women he had been with but soon they all did it, branding the women they raped with a slice or burn in a certain area; the resulting effect being those with less marks instantly became more valuable and the less marks meant younger girls. There was a law that now girl under the age of 14 is allowed intercourse, but with tens of thousands of men breaking that law it would be impossible to arrest them and so the law stands but nobody follows it. Girls are prized, the men search for those with few markings, deeming virgins equal in value to diamonds and jewels, but with the men raping younger girls soon they kept going younger and younger to find a girl with no marks. In the ally my life was virtually up for grabs, anybody could have passed, a bandit a soldier a shopkeeper. But fate was kind or I was extremely lucky as the barmaid only 12 years of age found me whilst dumping the rubbish. The young girl already marked excessively carried me through the back door into the tavern. They looked after me, for two years they fed me milk from the pregnant women around the village and from the local cows. I was a secret among the women, no man knew I was alive and the girl who found me was my protector. When the soldiers came every few weeks the tavern owner said that she had died, bleed out internally which was a common occurrence. Very few men live in the villages any more, they were all forcibly recruited into the army leaving women to fend for themselves and most of them couldnt. So that was the start of my life, kept secret by a dead girl in a secret room under the tavern. Whilst on a nightly basis I would hear the sobs of the women and on a weekly basis I would hear the cheering of men and the screaming of women. On one fateful night my life was going to change. As usual everything started out like routine, we girls spotted the soldiers making their way down the road towards the tavern, cheering and chanting of how many they killed and how they were going to abuse the women, me and my protector were quickly whisked off down into our hideout. However tonight the soldiers had a special friend who all the women were afraid off, warlocks are untrustworthy people, they have such potential for good but their power above normal humans makes them volatile and unpredictable. There arent many warlocks in the army, most of them believe they are greater beings and thus dont want to lower themselves in humans petty wars, but a few have been coaxed into the army or hired to aid us in the wars. Witchs and Warlocks are a very big problem in our lands, they terrorize people with fear to powerful to kill you have to either over power them or catch them by surprise, but with ever life they take they grow stronger, taking the essence of their victim to add to their own power. With the warlocks power to do anything, they arent bound by physics, often increasing their bodies in size dramatically to further brutalize the women. There even some Warlocks known for taking over the mind of animals and using them when their own bodys are worn out, causing no end of amusement for the soldiers. Bursting into the bar, the girls quickly tried to hand out the mugs of ale they prepared, knowing the quicker the soldiers got drank and passed out the safer they would be. Bring us ya ale the soldier shouted firmly causing the soldiers to cheer taking to the seats whilst the women quickly handed out the ale, as was the routine the soldiers was grabbed at the women until she was empty handing before forcing her to their will and they never made it pleasant. Sitting at the back of the room the warlock watch the men rejoice in their sexual antics waiting till they had their fill before having his turn. Then as midnight passed the men were all heavily intoxicated and calm, the warlock had had his fun with the women, resulting in a death of a barmaid who was only 15 years of age. With the woman all incapacitated in their torture or weakened state the soldiers were forced to hunt for my ale by themselves. Entering the store room they quickly grabbed all the ale they could carry, before turning only to find the Warlock standing in the doorway. I sense lift, young life, over there the Warlock said revealing a masochistic smile, stepping further in the warlock sniffed the air following his senses and power, the soldiers watching curiously whilst the warlock put his hand up and pulled back harshly ripping the wall that stood 15ft away apart. Inside sat me being hugged by my protector for dear life, I found some more entertainment boys the Warlock said grabbing my protector by the hair taking me from her grasp taking us both into the main hall. The women looking up in a state of shock and fear from the floor whilst looking at the evil Warlock carrying an infant of two years in his arm, Throwing my protector onto the table the soldiers was ripping at her clothes like a pack of wild dogs, Let us have the virgin the soldier said stepping away from the pack looking at the warlock who just smiled. This girl, is to remain untouched, she has potential the Warlock send looking down at me stroking my hair to the side Your right, she has the potential to be a great lay, now hand her here the soldier said a lot firmer now, his hand resting on his sword watching the warlock in contempt. No man will ever touch this girl the warlock said back gritting his teeth before muttering a spell. In a burst of smoke, my clothes quickly caught on fire in fact my body was aflame. Placing me down on the table the Warlock vanished. The men quickly tried to wrap me in a blanket to put out the flames but my flames quickly set the table and the blanket on fire and soon the entire tavern was ablaze. By the time the fire had died out, the village was destroyed, I was the only survivor. The fire had alerted the guards and with such a big fire the general himself was sent to check out the problem. He arrived with seven of his best men; walking around the village they checked each building finding only burnt corpses. Over here a soldier shouted standing by the tavern, with everybody rushing over; looking over the charred remains of the build they saw me, naked and unharmed. My body no longer in flames but I had no eyes, only smoke rose from the sockets. Little did they know I could see perfectly well and in fact I could see better than before, my eyesight was clearer and more detailed, looking up at the sky I didnt see white dots twinkling I saw galaxies from light years away, the sky was alight with colour. What is she? the soldier asked stepping forward, all eight men circling me but too afraid to touch me. Is she a witch? a soldier asked looking scared No, she cursed the general said stunning the men A witch requires to speak the spell, she is too young to know any spell and if she had magic the witch would of taken her with her to train the general said stating the facts causing the men to nod in agreement. Do we just leave her? another soldiers asked looking at the smoke rising from my eyes No, she was cursed for a reason and the fact that shes not in pain means she has a destiny to fulfil, pick her up were taking her back to base The general said watching one of his men reach forward trying to pick her up, his hand shaking nervously reaching ever closer. On first contact of bare skin the soldiers hand instantly caught on fire, the other men quickly jumping back watching the flames rise up his arm before reaching his head. In a matter of seconds the man was dead, the fire instantly dying out once the life was taken. Shes going to be a great killer the general said standing in shock at what I did. How do you know? the soldier asked keeping his distance from me. Because Im going to train her he replied before undoing his cape placing it at my back before scooping me up, not once touching me. Picking me up he held me against his chest, the cape being the only thing separating my skin from his. Dragons are prized pets; you had to get the egg the moment before it hatched because the hatchlings would bind themselves to the first thing they saw, similar to birds. There is a certain group of dragon tamers living in the mountains that raised a number of dragons selling their eggs to the highest bidder the buyer getting an almighty beast that would protect their owner with mind, body and soul. These dragons were usually given as gifts or rewards often going to royalty or service men that had done a considerable amount of good for the kingdom. The general that saved me was one of those men, being the last man of his troop alive, he charged into the opposing army being nearly four thousand to one, killing them in droves as by the time he was weak enough to be killed, reinforcements had arrived to help him out, in total he had killed 400 odd soldiers in the battle and was rewarded for his courage, sacrifice and skill with the promotion to general and a dragon. Taking me back to his horse, the general carried me in his arms back to his base, the smoke of my eyes trailing in the wind behind me. Why the hell did you bring her here? the captain roared getting the attention of the surrounding soldiers whilst he belittled the general I am going to train her? the general said standing his ground desperately trying to get his point across She is cursed, who ever she kills is either going to make her or the warlock that cursed her stronger, possible both the captain said firmly stating his concerns Exactly, there are no enemy warlocks in the area, so it has to be one in the army and if she gets stronger with every kill then she will be an asset to the army the general said firmly holding me in his arms. But shes blind, theres just smoke the captain said looking down at me stepping closer to the general I think she can, she was following your movements this whole time, but she cant be touched the general said instantly confusing the captain What do you mean? he asked curiously I mean, private Rodgers went to pick her up and his hand burst into flames, travelling up his arm to his head before dying, skin to skin contact will have to be prohibited with her the general said intriguing the captain. Could I get a demonstration? the captain asked curiously quickly stepping outside his tent calling in one of the guards. Yes sir? the guard asked standing abruptly to attention in front of his superiors I want you to touch this child with your hand the captain said calmly watching the guard look confused, shrugging away his confusion his pressed his palm against my forehead. In an instant his hand caught on fire, melting the skin and bone whilst moving in an unnaturally quick fashion travelled up his arm, the guard now screaming in pain quickly died when the fire reached his head. Very well, you can train her but teacher her more in archery the captain said dismissing the general who quickly stepped out the tent heading to his home in the camp. Time passed quickly for me, over the next 8 years I was being trained extremely well, I grew up on the army life, I knew I was cursed and I used it to my advantage; although no men is allowed to touch me or me them, I often jump forward in a duel making them fall backwards giving me the easy option to trip them up and win the duel. Growing up I found that I was fire proof, a useful tool when cold and theres a fire nearby but to go with that I also found that I had unnaturally good aim. For men the army life was short, for women it was even shorter. I had been around for 8 years and those who remember my first day were considered veterans. Being only 10 I was curious and often pushed my luck, trying to venture out past the camp and explore a bit more of the world, though it was harder to hide as my body grow. My never before cut hair was down to the small of my back, going from the blonde I was when born to black, if there was a colour blacker than black it was my hair, so dark I looked bald at night. However it turns out that my smoky eyes grew large when my heart was racing, anger, excitement or nervousness all made my smoke go high, up above my head and with the wind carrying it away I soon became impossible to hide from the guards who were trying to catch me whilst I ran from the camp. In my spare time I would always travel around the camp, some soldiers hated me for a few different reasons; I was cursed and should be dead was a common one, but I think the main was because I was the only girl in the camp, I was at the age they would quiet happily rape me but they knew they couldnt touch me. Instead of the weak, saggy, scar covered girls they were used to I was strong, I had a toned body from my years of training and I didnt have a single mark on me, making me the ultimate frustration for the men. Shadow came from the neighbouring land of Demont, the race of humans known for their darker complexion, their skin going from a light grey at birth getting darker as they aged, before going lighter again when reaching old age. He must of been about 24 years old, almost black skin making the whites of his eyes stand out boldly emphasising the green ring around his pupil, the people of Demont were general larger than the normal humans of our land, they stood around 8ft but it seemed every other race of human had a longer mating period, the females would be pregnant for over a year and would only be able to have kids every 4 years, unlike the humans of our land who could reproduce in just 9months and then start again only a few months after birth. Anyway, Shadow came to our land long before the war had started and making himself known to the army from the start his was given immunity from our soldiers so he could live in peace and not be killed on sight because we were currently at war with Demont. Shadow was a nice enough man, he never said much to anybody, he would stay with Arthur when he stayed and there was always sounds of laughing and cheering coming from Arthur homes those nights. Shadow was nice to me, I helped him pack up his horse and he would tell me a story of his adventures in the world, never too scary but with just enough detail to get me hooked on being a hunter and adventurer. Arthur was a fun man, he had several apprentice soldiers who made all the armour under his guidance giving Arthur more time to do what he liked to do which was inventing, he would think up some crazy weapon that had many uses but it seemed only I was interested in them, the soldiers only cared about having the biggest weapon and strongest armour rather pathetic really as they get slaughtered in droves. With the no touching rule placed upon me my mastered gave me the most minimum training in close combat people had ever seen, instead he focused me on ranged weapons, or anything that involved distance between me and my enemy. It started out with just Archery but soon I being trained in whips, throwing knifes, rope darts and even some foreign weapons, imported from other lands by merchants or hunters. Rope darts were Arthur's first invention a piece of rope attached to a blade but after a while he chained the rope to smaller but stronger chain though he kept the name. Sitting in his chair Arthur would often look out over the camp from his little ridge above the soldiers quarters, I would always go sit with him when I got the time and he would tell me the most wonderful tales of famous warriors and courageous princesses even a few of the legendary tales that most people didnt believe, but I believed... I clung onto his every word believing every syllable he spoke. The times when a man or women could go out in the world and do what they wanted, if they wanted to be hunters they just packed up their stuff and left, it was almost too good to be true but it saddens me when I think of my time and how men are either forced into the army or killed and women forced into prostitution. Along with the general they were my friends and the only men I trusted. By the age of 16 I was becoming ever increasingly deadly, with almost 14 years of training to my name I had the most training any soldier had ever received before being sent into battle, sparring had become a regular hobby for me, my favourite weapon being the whip. The soldiers hated it, I would try and drag them towards me and they would pull away in fear and consequently land on the ground admitting defeat. My aim was also now the best in the camp; I was hitting bulls eyes every time on the target board from nearly any distance, I even got soldiers to run with the board so I could attack moving targets. The end result being I was the best archer in the camp and some speculate that Im the best in the army, as well as archery I am the best with the whip, rope dart and throwing knives but only due to the fact I was one of the only few people that used them. Regrettably, my body had changed as well over the years, my height being 5ft6 and my chest filling out to a lustful size, the only down side was the stares, the men would stare for hours and it was never one of those Awe shes pretty stares, they were all I want to do unspeakable things to you type of stares, some of these stares really got to me, even though I knew they would never touch me, I hated being seen as a girl whose only use was for pleasure. With this hatred in mind I trained harder, worked harder and overall became fiercer. I wasnt going to let anybody overpower me and that was before I killed them with my curse. My armour was constantly changing, my leather chest piece being stretched out on the top to fit my bulging chest whilst my waist stayed thin, in all fairness through I had gotten used to the stares and I often used it to my advantage, to become just another tool in my arsenal of weapons to make soldiers trip up. By showing a bit of cleavage the man would just stare at it, living in their fantasy making them easy targets to take out, standing perfectly still they gazed at my breasts not wanting the visual stimulation to end, almost like they were hypnotic. Come Jasmine, Sit... I will tell you a story Shadow said smiling sitting down on the rock waiting for me to join him You are in the army; you will have to fight in the wild. If youre alone there are some things you must learn, firstly is always have a weapon. Any weapon will do but a bow is best, keep your enemy at a distance; you should also find shelter, find shelter first then weapon then food. Being in the open makes you vulnerable on all sides Shadow said looking out over the camp while I listened intently If you make it in the woods, that is a start but you must learn of the peoples habits, bandits often set up ambushes on narrow paths and near busy towns. Wolves and bears will go for caves whilst if you see a Warlock, just run, their spells have about a 30 yard radius and not many of them exercise, if you can out run a Warlock you will be safe Shadow said calmly looking down at me Anyway, I was fighting some trolls a few weeks ago, nothing major they had been pestering a village but during my fight with the troll I spotted a bear walking up to me and before I knew it I was surrounded by bears and wolves all coming to the aid of the now injured troll he explained instantly interesting me, Well, I thought that I had hit the jackpot, all the animals were coming to me. So dropping my bow I pulled out my sword and mace, running up to the closest bear I slammed the mace down on his head, whilst at the same time a wolf pounced on me his jaws on slightly missing my arm but his body weight knocked me over. Looking at the wolf skidding on the floor I trusted my sword into his chest instantly killing him but at that moment the troll grabbed my leg throwing me across the woods into a tree. Taking my new chance, I quickly got up slice though the nearby wolves making my way towards the troll, finally reaching him I dodge is swipe at me my sword slicing the back of his leg. The beast howled out in pain and taking my sword I jammed it into his chest from behind whilst he was busy on his knees howling at the sky in pain Shadow said his stories telling so good I didnt know if it was the truth or not. With the troll dead, I stabbed the bear I hit with my mace before going up to the second bear smacking his head with the mace before slicing his neck. Though with the two bears and troll dead the wolves panicked and fled the area, I didnt catch them. He said ending his story with me fascinated. You cant be serious the general pleaded not wanting to do what has been asked of him You have to, the order comes from the King himself and as your superior I task it you, you are the only one she will follow blindly the captain said leaving the general stunned Come on sir the general said stepping forward hopefully, That is enough, you are dismissed general the captain hissed angrily looking dead into his generals eyes who bowed before leaving the tent in ruin of what is had been tasked to do Standing in the ring, I waited for my next opponent to step forward. Pushing several soldiers out the way a large brutish man walked forward, that evil glint in his eyes looking down at me Ill show you how a true soldier fights he said cockily stepping forward showing off his large great sword, undeterred by his comment and taking position I snapped my whip a few times watching him take a few steps back planning his moves carefully, charging forward he swung his sword down hard missing me getting stuck in the ground, the large blade burying itself into the dirt. Taking my opening I swung my whip round, the leather hitting his neck and looping round a few times, pulling hard the whip tightened causing the large man to drop to his knees clawing at his throat trying to loosen the whip but to no avail. True soldier huh I mocked taking off my whip while he coughed and spluttered catching his breath. Walking away, the large men quickly got to his feet yanking his sword from the ground before taking a powerful swing at me, seeing the sword come from the side I dropped to the floor hearing the swish of the sword passing over my head. Jumping up off the ground I snapped my whip hitting his body aiming for his hands and face so he dropped his sword. Putting too much slack on my whip it wrapped around his wrists holding the sword in his grip, pulling tighter I ran around the man holding the sword flat against his head not allowing him to see anything in front of him and unable to drop the sword. Standing in front of him I stepped to the side kicking the sword into his face causing the surrounding soldiers to laugh. Jasmine A booming voice called out behind me, I turned quickly to find whoever called me being actually surprised it was the general, he never usually came out here while I was training, must be something special I thought to myself smiling up at his huge frame, being nearly double my small 5ft 6 frame, Pack a bag, were going on a trip the general said adding a faint smile on the end. Unwrapping my whip from the man clearly dazed by the hit to the head I ran off to pack going as fast as I could, it was the first time I was leaving the camp and I couldnt wait, hopefully I didnt have to come back here but I knew I wasnt that lucky. Stepping back out into the open I was wearing my protective clothing, a cape and gloves which blocked the touch of skin keeping people safe from my curse. Carrying my satchel full of belongings I walked up to the general who was waiting for me on his dragon, a huge beast much larger than all the other dragons. Climb up, were need to be their quickly he said holding down a huge hand for me, grabbing onto his thumb my hand only just reaching around it he lifted me up, with less effort than breathing he pulled me up onto the saddle of his dragon placing me in front of him, Lets go the general said tapping his feet into the side of his dragon who quickly responded, flapping his enormous wings once, he sent us high up into the air. Where are we going? I asked the general as he chuckled Dragons are given as gifts and rewards, and although I cannot afford to buy you a dragon, that doesnt mean youre not getting one he said stunning me Youre giving me a dragon? I asked nervously as he smiled No youre getting yourself a dragon, we cant use the Dragon tamers because we dont have the money, but their no law about going out and taming your own dragon my master said with a curious smile causing me to grin manically. Why are you given me a dragon? I asked curiously knowing none of the other soldiers had one. For your job, I have been talking with the king for a few years now, and you know of his daughter Rosie he asked me watching my reply in the form of a nod Well like you Rosie doesnt want to be trapped, you are trapped in the camp, she in her castle. She is also the same age as you, and for her 18th birthday, her gift is you he said as my jaw dropped I thought you were going to look after me, I dont want to be a slave I begged panicking over my future to which the general just laughed at. You not going to be her slave, youre going to be her protection. The princess has her own dragon and will be allowed to travel the lands by her own free will, you will accompany her and keep her safe he explained to me instantly calming me down filling me up with happiness So what am I going to do for two years now then? I asked back in my happy chirpy voice causing my master to giggle You are going to tame your dragon, youre going to train your dragon for a year before you go spend a year with Shadow the hunter, he will teach you how to survive in the world far better than we could. When that year is up, you will return and you will protect the princess he said as I nodded How long have you been planning this? I asked looking up at him realising this seemed all rather planned Since you were 10, I met the king who was having trouble keeping her daughter in the castle. I told him that I am currently training a girl of the same age at the camp and he offered the deal for you to be her protector, the king doesnt trust the male soldiers around his daughter he said calmly looking down past his dragons chest checking where we were. Doing the same I watched the land below us, there were huge expanses of forest a few mountains and lakes and surprisingly more villages than I thought there would be, we were travelling in a straight line and we must of flew over at least 6 villages. Not paying attention around me, I felt a hand on my foot and then the next thing I knew I was falling, increasing speed dramatically, falling down I moved myself into a horizontal position, aiming myself for the nearby lake. With the general ahead of me, he didnt see me land, but I dived into a lake, there was little splash so he wouldnt have seen my landing anyway. Hitting the water I turned, slowing down my momentum, I stopped only inches from the rocks on the lake floor, turning to face the surface I quickly swam up hiding into the nearby bushes thinking of what to do next. He threw me from his dragon, why would he tell me those things if he planned on killing me I thought looking up and seeing the general circling above gliding down to land. Quickly sneaking away I wasnt about to let him finish the job on me, I ran whilst his back was turned making my way into the dense forest knowing I could lose him in there. Running through the woods I thought back to everything I knew about survival from Shadow Im wet and its cold, warmth and shelter are my first priorities I thought knowing what to do, I ran faster, jumping over fallen trees and logs trying to increase my body temperature and heart rate as I felt myself get a bit warmer, looking ahead I spotted a small cove in the rock wall instantly deciding it was my place to sleep for the night, gathering some wood I lit it with my stone and flint from my satchel. I soon had a blaze going and my body was starting to dry and warm up. Placing the wood at the back of the cove I spread it out, making multiple fires with my hiding in the fire at the back, the large flames masking my body whilst keeping me very warm. Landing by the lake, my master searched for hours for any signs of life or even a body. Searching the lake he found nothing, but just in the corner of his eye the general spotted movement turning to face it he spotted two bears, on carrying a leg whilst the other carried the body. Chasing after them he quickly lost them in the dense woods, his only option left to return to camp with a heavy heart knowing he followed out his order successfully. The next day, I woke up warm but uncomfortable, my fire dwindling down into a light simmer as I quickly got up and left the cave thinking back to the stories I heard. When in the woods, the first thing you need is a weapon, a dagger at minimum but a bow is best I thought relaying Shadows advice in my head, travelling through the woods. Thinking about how I ended up here I was furious, How could he do that to me, he raised me, I thought he cared for me I thought me steps turning into angry paces walking around my fury was starting to build up, looking around for something to unleash it on I walked up to a tree kicking hard. What happened next was unexplainable, my foot tore through the wood, almost 4 feet of wood and my feet came out the other side, the tree falling down to the side next to me, whilst I stood there in shock Thats not natural I said aloud quickly walking away hoping that if I cant see the fallen tree, it never happened. Walking away I came across a path, looking down one side I saw nothing but more forest however looking down to my right I spotted smoke rising from the trees. Ok Jasmine, you cant be seen, if theyre bandits or soldiers your dead anyway. Steal what you can and get out of there I thought to myself, sticking to the trees off the path. Getting closer and closer I spotted the people in rags, all carrying daggers as I saw a few with bows 6 of them I thought counting them out as I staying hidden in bushes and trees making my way closer. Lying down on the ground I spotted a bow inside a makeshift tent and to my luck right next to it was about a dozen arrows. Crawling forward ever so slowly I reached out picking up the bow and arrows making absolutely no sound at all, I listened to their voices their laughing, talking about how fun it was to rape that priest and her daughter travelling to somewhere they called Davenport. With the bow and arrows in my hand I laid the 6 arrows I needed on the floor quietly, successfully continuing my plan to remain silent, I planned my order carefully guessing the movements they would take after I shot the first arrow, in an instant I released my arrow piercing the heart of the first bandit. The men looking shocked at the death of a friend quickly pulled out weapons searching the area for the killer, in the next 3 seconds I fired 2 more arrows hitting the hearts of the bandits, as one them tried to run away I fired an arrow into his back piercing the bone and hitting the heart killing him instantly. The last two soldiers stood back to back moving in a circle searching the tree line for any sign of movement. Waiting till one was facing me I fired my arrow, hitting him directly in the throat going all the way through and into the guy behind him severing his neck, both men dropping to their knees clutching their throat bleeding out through their fingers all over the floor. It only took about 20seconds but the men soon lost too much blood and died, with the camp clear I stood up out of my bush, stepping into the camp to look through all their belongings. I sat down at the table eating their food knowing it might be awhile before my next meal, the chicken was good but there wasnt enough to fill me up. Scavenging the camp I picked up the best bow there was putting it over my shoulder I also picked up a quiver off the side filling it with all the arrows I used as well as the bandits arrows. Looking around I spotted a pouch full of copper and silver coins which I was considerably lucky to find, searching through the crates they had, I found a larger satchel double the size of mine, putting some food in it as well as the money pouch I stood up, taking one last look around checking I had everything worth taking I left the camp, making my way back into the forest continuing in the direction I was flying. Killing those men makes me a bandit, if people are going to come after me Im going to need some protection I thought to myself looking up at the sky checking the suns position to gauge the time If my master was taking me to get a dragon, then he would of flown in a straight line there, so the dragons nest must be in this direction I thought to myself, knowing my next plan of action as I took into the forest following the direction of our flight. Its done sir the general said dimly, his face hanging low as he stood in front of his captain Good, Im sorry it had to come to this but her killing would only of made the Warlock stronger and we dont know who he is and whose side hes on the captain said shuffling papers on his desk. Did you recover the body? The captain asked looking at his general No, there was a shallow lake, but she wouldnt have survived. But I did see two bears, their muzzles thick with blood carrying off a body of some kind, but I didnt see what they were carrying the general said before bowing slightly walking out of the captains tent. For days on end I worked my way through the forest, killing the odd wolf that tried to sneak up on me, but I found there to be surprisingly more wolves that I had heard in the stories. I was spending my nights high up in trees shooting arrows down at the wolves who were tracking me. I was starting to lose track of days, this might have been my first week or third being alone but everything was the same; I woke up, I travelled, I hunted, I slept. Even the trees started looking the same, not knowing which pattern of tree I had passed or hadnt. Who are we looking for again? a man said waking me up from my sleep up in the canopy, I dont know, the boss said its a girl with smoke for eyes, she shot him and he wants her as a slave the man said firmly whilst I was trying to cover my mother hiding my gasp and breathing. She managed to shoot him, wow shes either brave or stupid the bandits said carrying his bow looking along the forest floor for any signs of hunting or camps. She killed each one of his men with a single around, and 2 of them with one arrow, he only survived because of his heart being on the other side the leader of the three men said firmly sounding very loyal I cant believe were looking for a girl, I could understand a man being able to shoot Don but he said she had to be under 18 the smallest man said, holding the handle of his sword ready looking around the forest floor. I watch them pass me, unaware that I was above them. With them firmly gone from sight I made my way down the tree, slowly following them hoping they didnt stop. I walked for a few hours constantly checking around me for signs of the men but never seeing any, walking past a tree I felt something against my foot, in an instant rope tightened around my ankle, pulling my up causing me to hit my head on the ground before hanging by my ankle He was right, she does have smoke instead of eyes, the curses are a pain. I wonder if the boss will want a blind slave the voice said while I heard the three sets of footsteps walk around me from behind trees. What makes you think shes blind? one of the men said confidently Because she has smoke instead of eyes, and shes only travelled in a straight line, shes lost the man said chuckling. They think Im blind, Ok Jasmine, new plan, play along until they let their guard down and they kill them I thought to myself just waiting for them to make the moves. If shes blind how did she shoot the boss with a bow and arrow? the man said thinking he had stumped the bandit put in charge of finding me Because, when one sense is gone your others are heightened, I bet she has good hearing and could fire at the sound of his footsteps and heartbeat the man said thinking he had an answer for everything. Ok, beautiful, were going to let you down now and then were going to take you to our boss, if you try and run away we will catch you and make your life very unpleasant the man said calmly pushing my body into a swinging motion, his hand only touching the leather. With my head facing the ground I heard a swish of a sword before feeling the rope go slack, my body dropping to the floor, placing my hands out I caught myself going from my hands to my feet with relative ease. Impressive for a blind girl the man said whilst I gave a slight smirk, Seeing as you figured me out, mind directing me in the direction I have to go? I asked calmly making my voice sound softer than usual trying to manipulate the men into being nicer towards me. Walk the leader said standing directly behind me, whilst he gently pushed the tip of his blunt sword into my back, not hard enough to piece the leather or me but firm enough to guide my movements. So who was it I shot? I asked calmly the men looking at me in shock You dont know, he thought you were an assassin or something the man said as he walked next to me on my left. I was in the forest alone, I needed a weapon and I found his camp I said calmly trying not to create unwanted tension. You shot Don Verreeno, he is the leader of Golden Thieves the leader said sounding very strong and confident in what he said Never heard of him or your little band of misfits I said cockily instantly regretting it after Well, thats unfortunate for you. I will make it a recommendation for you to be introduced to his whip the leader said laughing menacingly whilst I grinned. He has a whip, good this might get interesting I thought walking through the woods in a new direction coming up to civilisation after only a few hours. Walking through the town people watched nervously at me whilst two of the men now held swords to my back, I presume there are no soldiers here? I asked walking through the village into the tavern with their guidance Nope, the army faces a new threat for they fight over land with the other armies and now fight us for the villages. The leader said sitting me down in the back of the tavern. Joey, go call Don the leader said sitting down next to me holding his sword at my side now, while we waited for their leader. Only 30minutes of waiting later, I heard the sound of horses arriving, bursting in through the door I heard the hearts instantly increase, one more than others finding the leader before even looking at them Why isnt she in chains Don roared looking at me causing me to smile Nice to see you again, I have been informed of who you are, its a pleasure to meet somebody who hates the army as much as myself I said nodding stunning all the men. Wait, so youre not an assassin? he asked looking nervous sitting down opposite me, No, I was alone in the woods, I needed a weapon and I found your camp, granted if I had known who you were I still would of shot you and I must say your very lucky to be alive, probably the first time your displaced heart has been helpful I said causing him to chuckle slightly. So who are you? he asked nervously. This is your chances to reinvent yourself I thought thinking up a new name For the last 6 years I have been called Onyx I said thinking up a story to feed them, And before that? he asked clearly intrigued by my answer I did not have one before that, I was cursed by a warlock from birth. I was brought up by the army and at the age of ten when I found out what they had planned for me, I ran I found a family living in the remote parts of the forest who raised me properly, a few weeks ago soldiers came killed the husband for refusing to join their ranks, raped his wife to death and then her daughter. They tried to rape me but they all burned and died, nobody knew I lived there so I couldnt let them go back after killing them I ran, I ran for days on end before finding your camp I said stopping my story there making sure to make the army out to be the bad guys. So the army did no name you? he asked curiously, They called me Oblivion, because of my curse I said calmly thinking of my next story What is your curse? he asked sounding rather nervous I have heightened senses, although you men think Im blind I can see better than any man or any hawk, my reflexes and aim are incomparable whilst any man that touches my skin is set on fire, thus making me fire proof I said receiving a few gasps from the men surround with all the eyes in the tavern on me. I dont believe you Don said firmly grinning, Which part I asked looking at him All of it? he said causing me to chuckle Allow me I said pulling out my bow shooting an arrow at the wall, I then took off my glove and grabbed a hold of the man next to me who had his sword pointed at me, his bare arm immediately lit on fire, the flames travelling up to his head causing him to scream out in agony. It only took about 10 seconds but with 8 of those having his head on fire, he didnt last long before dropping onto the table dead, the flames instantly vanishing once the life was taken. Check the arrow I said calmly shuffling in my seat, watching one of the soldiers walk over to the wall Hey boss, look at this, she shot a fly in the wings, its still alive the man said excitedly the hint of shock in his voice put all the men on edge. Ok, so you arent lying, you still shot me and you need to be punished for that Don said desperately trying to sound angry and in charge, his brain still in shock that I could do such things. You truly are an idiot I said placing my elbow on the table resting my head on my hand watching him looking more and more annoyed You do not speak to me in such a manner you little whore the man said forcefully slamming his fist on the table sparking my anger Firstly I said standing up right causing the men to draw their weapons, Firstly, I kill any man at the slightest of touches, meaning I am untouched by any man so dont you ever call me a whore again I hissed firmly, not raising my voice but adding venom into my woods to make them stick Secondly, I can kill with a the slightest touch, excluding my army training in archery, whips, rope darts, throwing knifes, daggers and swords. We share a common enemy and you would rather punish me than recruit me I said angrily, my heartbeat pumping causing the smoke to thicken rising about a foot above my head accentuating my anger. I see your point, you punishment will be 4 months of training under our strictest trainer, he will teach you how to kill, not how to train like the army does. We will teach you about the land, about getting what you want and most importantly about getting what you need the man said grinning causing me to smile On one condition I said firmly causing him to laugh Nobody must know about me, if the army find out that Im still alive they will come for me, and they will slaughter you to get to me I said knowing it would be true, Don nodding understandingly whilst the men poked their swords at me back guiding me out the tavern. Walking down the path I saw a camp and then a cave, hidden behind a boulder. Entering the cave I was pushed down the path into a large cavern, I spotted several more tunnels and a few more caverns along the way realising that this was a huge hideout. Razor, we have a new recruit for you the man behind me said causing a large brute of man to stand up, clearly not from Cyril his height almost topping 10ft, but he was no lean man his muscles were huge and bulging his massive War axe being larger than my entire body, probably even larger than the mens bodies Awe, his like a cute overgrown puppy I said hitting his nerve causing the bandits around me to laugh, he walked fast towards me, he hand rising up to slap me Woah, big guy, you dont want to touch her, shes cursed. Any man that touches her died within seconds the man said pushing back the huge man Really the man said looking down at me before chuckling If shes cursed, why am I training her the brute asked walking down the path into the cavern whilst I was pushed down following them by sword point. Shes ex-army, training from birth to be a killing machine, the curse making her very deadly. Ran away aged 10, lived in the woods before being attacked by the army again, she ran again and we picked her up the man said informing the brute who listened So why I am training her? he asked not looking happy to the prospect of training me Because, she has received training from the army and hates them, you will be training her one what we know and she will be working with us, she will become our weapon against the army the man said firmly, the brute nodding in response before motioning me forward. What do I call you missy he asked calmly sitting down at a large chair whilst I sat opposite him. You can call me Onyx I said calmly making him smile why that name? he asked looking at me Its the prettiest black object I know of I said smirking causing the surrounding people to laugh. Marvin, get over here, can you tell me what she is cursed with the brute shouted loudly watching the older man quickly stand up walking over to him sitting down next to me. Oh wow, thats a powerful curse, I believe its called Death Smoke, I dont know who it was done by but it sure is powerful he said looking excitedly at me Can you tell us what the curse does? Razor asked calmly I have only heard rumours and references to this curse, but the Warlock basically took your eyes to create a bond between you and him, replacing them with the Death Smoke curse, from what I have read every life you take will add to the power of the warlock like how it normally works, although it looks like he has no power over you, the benefits hes added to the curse are extraordinary the warlock said holding his hand out, not even touching me but using his power to sense me. Increased senses, the smoke working as sight, you also cannot be touched by any male human touch, females seems to be find as well as animal just men cannot touch you. Your also fire proof with increased aim and reflexes and when you get into a rage, your strength increased to that of a dragon, oh wow, is that... oh wow Marvin said stuttering moving his hand around sensing me more. What is it? I asked nervously, Every time you take a life with your curse, you absorb a small amount of the essence of the victim, that essence is added to yours and increases in size, that could make your possibilities endless he said confusing me further. Explain Marvin Razor said excitedly his gaze flicking between me and the warlock next to me, Ok think of your essence as your soul, and consider it a pond, ever life you take your pond grows bigger, but for example when you bind to a dragon the dragons souls merges with yours filling up your pond he said taking a deep breath Anybody can bind with a dragon but if your pond gets to full before the dragon is bound then it will cancel it out and the dragon will kill you, most peoples ponds are smaller because they are filled with the love of their families. You dont love anybody and you can grow your pond, so theoretically you could bind to any number of dragons he said excitedly causing razor to grin widely. What about that rage part you said? I asked curiously thinking back to the tree incident The angrier you are, the stronger you become rather simple but I can see that you already knew this, something about a tree he said causing me to look away Yes I kicked a tree in half, but I didnt know how I did it so I never tried it again I said explaining myself. Thank you Marvin, you were very helpful but me and Onyx here have to go train Razor said standing up walking away, Thank you I said to the warlock before quickly following Razor down the path into a new cavern, filled with people sparring and practicing their skills. Whats your favourite weapon? Razor asked showing me the rack of weapons to chose from, looking around I searched the rack spotting a whip hidden behind a box Very well Razor said chuckling at my choice while I walked back towards him the whip in my hands, You will train, you will not touch anybody and if I feel you arent training hard enough I will use your own weapon against you he said demandingly watching the first bandits step up to me starting the sparring duel. Snapping the whip a few times the sound still scarier than the pain, I whipped it loosely wrapping it around the bandits wrist, before he could undo it I pulled hard sending him into the air landing but he quickly landed on his feet. With my whip now undone I spin dragging the whip around with the momentum snapping it again but this time the flick hit his cheek cutting is slightly, startled by the hit I snapped the whip again hitting his leg before going into a barrage of hits some reaching around the back hitting his lower back and thighs. Landing on the floor the man cried out in pain, the whelps growing on his skin as he clutched his legs. That was good, now stop we do not permanently harm our own, next partner he said loudly causing a older man to walk up, brandishing his daggers I quickly started my barrage of whips again before whipping it at his neck, the momentum spinning the leather around 3 times before stopping, pulling tightly the leather tightened. The man dropped his daggers to begin clawing at his throat, watching his face go purple I quickly stopped pulling giving him some slack before slowly sliding the leather from around his neck. Enough, thats enough for now, Maggie, go show Onyx to a spare bed Razor said getting louder at the end getting the attention of the girl who was standing near us watching me duel Sure, this way she said walking away whilst I quickly caught up to her, the whip still in my hand though my bow and arrows were back down in the training area. Your good with the whip she said smiling whilst we walked down a tunnel This one is a bit short for my liking, but it will do I said calmly smiling at the girl who couldnt have been any younger than me Im 15, in case your wondered, Ive been helping out down here since I was 12, I do errands for the thieves and they give me protection from the army, they dont rape me they are nice, we are normal people half of the members used to be farmers or shop owners, they joined to fight back against the armies she said explaining it giving me a whole new view of them all I feel bad now for killing the men in the camp I said looking down making her laugh Between you and me, you did good don only keeps the toughest of men to protect him and they were all cruel people anyway she said making me laugh. Don, this girl could be a real asset to us Razor said calmly looking at Don while he sat in his private chamber Im aware of her curse? he said calmly causing Razor to chuckle So you know about the dragons and rage? he asked stunning his boss What dragons? he asked extremely interested I had Marvin check over her curse, it was done by some major powerful Warlock, Im not sure what it means but basically her soul is like a pond, when a dragon binds to her it fills up her pond, but with ever life she takes with the curse her pond grows larger, so she could bind and control an unlimited amount of dragons he said excitedly causing the boss to grin Why didnt she mention this before? he asked curiously She looked surprised when Marvin told her, so I doubt she knew also when she gets mad and I mean properly mad, she gets stronger and not just a little bit marvin said she had kicked a tree down with a single blow. But I think shes been lying to you? he said perking Dons interest again. I heard what the men said, but she is very skilled with a whip, not a common weapon and for the size of the whip and her body size she wouldnt of been able to be that skilled aged 10, she has been training since then with one Razor said causing Don to growl under his breath So what do you suppose her story is? he asked looking up at his loyal recruit I think she has left the army recently, possibly ran away, or maybe she is still in the army, she played the men in bring her here and she has convinced you to letting her into our ranks, just watch out for her Razor said nodding to his boss before walking out. Over the next three months I trained hard, on my second day I went to the leather smith asking for a longer whip my knew one being almost 16ft long compared to their 8ft whip, with my new whip I was undefeated, the snap now being even more painful sounding and damaging. Looking around I noticed people start to look at me funny, and it wasnt the looks or the curse, it was like they didnt approve of me. Don told me off his plan to get me a dragon, he had connections with the dragon tamers, so until they were ready I was put on executioner duty, none of the thieves killed any soldiers or rogue bandits, they captured them all taking them to a clearing in the woods before letting me burn them. After 3 months I was starting to feel the benefits of the kills, my sight had improved I was also getting quicker more deadly. Onyx, we need to talk Razor said pulling me away from training, Whats the matter I asked calmly walking up to him, before he led me out up into the main cavern where all the tables were full of men and women watching me. We know youre a nice girl, but people have their suspicions because your ex-army he said walking with me towards the front, all eyes on me as I stood between Razor and Don. Onyx, we all have our suspicions about you, we would like for you to tell us the truth. I know you lied when we first met Don said calmly making me sigh Fine, I thought if you knew I had left the army so recently you would be too suspicious... I was cursed at the age of around 2, I burnt down the entire village that night leaving me alone and unharmed in the burnt ruins of the tavern I said calmly the people listening intently. The General of the army, came out with his men to find the cause of the fire but found me instead, he took me back to the camp and he raised me, by the age of 10 I was equal in skill to the soldiers although they could easily overpower me, but by the time I was 16 I was the best there was, no soldier wanting to get close made t to me which made them easy people to beat in duels. I dont know why, but one day the general said that he was taking me to get a dragon, he said I was going to be the princesses personal protection and I would need a dragon to keep up, but before we made it there he threw me from his dragon I said stunning the crowd Honestly, from understanding what Marvin said, from those I kill with my curse, a small part goes to me the rest goes to the warlock who cursed me, I believe the army feared that I would be empowering the enemy so they sent me to my death, being to skilled it would be impossible to kill me normally, so they used a weapon that there was no defence for, gravity. I said calmly watching the people nod. I fell from the height of mountains, and I had to aim myself to land in a lake otherwise I would of died. I ran from the lake before the general could find me and then I thought back to my training I said the people somehow feeling said for me I knew I needed a weapon, so I searched for life before finding a camp, your camp Don I said calmly stepping back with everybody knowing the rest. And thats the truth? he asked as I nodded Oh they named me Jasmine, not Oblivion, I made that up so you thought the army only saw me as a weapon to gain your trust I said causing him to laugh. I see, and why would you want our trust? he asked curiously I didnt at first, I didnt even know who you where, I planned to take a bow kill the bandits in the camp and make my way to a new land where nobody knew me, but after hearing about you from your men, I figured that I could use some resources. Still thinking you were some sort of bandit overlord, I planned to manipulate you into making you recruit me then I was going to take everything of value and probably kill you all I said smiling making a few laugh But... Maggie told me how you were all normal people hiding here rebelling against the army, and seeing as I have a newfound hatred for the army I figured I could do some good and thats all Ive ever wanted to do I said calmly seeing them all smile at me. Very well, you can go back to training for now but we have 10 more soldiers that need killing Don said calmly to which I nodded back my reply before walking out the cavern, the people dispersing back to their activities. Ok thats enough training Razor said pulling my whip from the body of the passed out recruit, Sorry I said stepping back ravelling up my weapon putting it on my belt. Go sort out the executions he said firmly carrying the man from the floor to a nearby bench. Walking out the cavern I made my way up out into the open and for some much needed fresh air, Hey Onyx Maggie said quickly running up to me from the outside base walking with me through the woods Hey Maggie, you ok? I asked calmly looking at her Im ok, just bored Victor is trying to ask me out, sometimes I wish I was cursed like you just so the boys would leave me alone Maggie said chuckling causing me to laugh Sometimes I wish it was the other way round, I would love to be able to touch somebody. Grow old get married have kids but I guess Im going to be a virgin till the day I die I said rather flatly looking down at the ground kicking a fir cone. Arriving in the opening, I sat the ten men all trapped in the stocks looking at me with fearful eyes obviously recognising me. I remember you, angry man, stared at my chest all day I said walking up to the man directly in front of me What are you going to do, whip us he spat mockingly eyeing my whip on my belt Would you like that, you have been a bad soldier. You need to be spanked I said treating him like a child, walking around him I pulled my whip at pulling his trousers down before whipping him several times on his bum, his howls of agony somehow satisfying me. Walking around the front I drifted my hand across the first soldiers face, stroking it lightly whilst walking down in front of them all, his screams of pain causing them all to start shaking around trying to break their bonds. Skipping the man I whipped, I burnt the other men their heads setting on fire weakening the neck causing gravity to decapitate them. Heading back to the last man alive I sat down in front of him, How about we make a deal, you tell me what I want to know and I will kill you with the things you have dreamt about most I said calmly placing my hands on the buttons keeping my leather chest piece up, and more importantly hiding my breasts. Whats the point, Im going to die anyway he spat back at me, clearly angered by my offer. It would make you the first man ever to touch them I said calmly perking his interest slightly although he remained silent Where is there general? I asked placing my hands at the bottom button fiddling with it waiting for his answer. Back at the camp, hes been training the new men pretty hard since you left he said quickly to which I smiled undoing the bottom button, moving up to the next one stroking my finger around the edge of it teasing him. Why did you come here? I asked looking at him; his eyes firmly fixed to my chest We came to sort out the bandit problem here. There is no bandit problem here, only a army problem I said undoing the button before moving up Three buttons left and Im totally exposed I said teasing him further causing him to groan whilst Maggie was laughing from the side along with several other men who had joined us. Next question, why did the general throw me from his dragon and try to kill me I asked firmly looking at his face, sweat pouring him his head dripping from his chin as he stared at me chest He was ordered to, by the king you were to much of a threat and you might be powering the enemy he said quickly wanting to see more. I slowly popped the third button revealing the underside of my breast causing him to groan and grit his teeth; his exposed manhood standing firm whilst his armoured trousers lay bunched up by his ankles. Somebody is excited I said looking under him causing the people around me to laugh Question four, what are the armys new positioning plans I asked seeing his face torn between lust and loyalty, giving in a sigh of defeated he reveal the answer The captain is sending troops to flank the two armies currently fighting at davenport, they aim to take it back and push the two armies back he said quickly, whilst people quickly left to tell Don. Popping the button I had almost revealed it all, the last button straining from the pressure Question five I said slowly his face red with pressure and excitement. What was my name before the army? I asked smiling, knowing he didnt have the answer Jane he said quickly taking a random guess at the question Nope I said quickly buttoning up my top much to his distress Claire, Annabel, Sophie, Sarah he ranted causing people to laugh at him, standing up my top now fully buttoned up I sighed Nobody knows me name before the army, because those who did died in the fire. You lose I said calmly touching him on the forehead making him immediately catch on fire. Walking away the people quickly went about their daily business, hunting and preparing for missions, whilst I went to go get some rest. Two months later and Im starting to wonder if every soldier is an idiot, they send men they go missing, they send more men they too go missing, and then they send more men. Never do they think lets send a large amount of troops or high ranking troops, nope its 10 soldiers every time...easy pickings. Since starting my training here, I have killed over 80 soldiers, , although its very little compared to the size of the army it is a lot for me, I can feel the changes taking effect on my body, my agility has increased as well as all my senses. I could tell what was cooking from outside the cave as well as listening to conversations from other sides of deep within the cave, that has helped on more than one occasion telling Don about traitors and peoples plans. I was quickly rising up the ranks in this rebellion, no longer holding back during training I was still undefeated and even razor couldnt beat me, I was too quickly and once I had my whip around his throat, their chance of winning reduced to naught. I have noticed that Im doing more and more missions lately and less training, probably because nobody wanted to spar with me, but I was doing a lot of spy work going to the other villages hiding in the bushes and trees listening on conversations nobody should be able to hear. Have you heard about the thieves; apparently theyve managed to kill over 100 of us now in Ravensteed, they keep ambushing our men a soldier said sitting in the tavern. Climbing down from the tree, I put my large hood up over my new robe I bought, the hood going low enough over my head to hide my eyes. Walking into the town I attracted very little attention as per usually although walking into the tavern everybody quickly looked up at me before going back to their meals and conversation. What will it be? the barmaid asked looking nervously at the soldiers who were watching the barmaid and myself now a small amount of strew would be lovely thanks I said calmly hearing her smile and walk away. Hello beautiful, you body is amazing a soldier said walking up behind my putting his hand on my back, only touching the robe. How do you know that, you havent seen my face I asked pulling out my knife slowing, at the exact moment he went to pull my hood down I spun lifting my knife to his throat stopping him in his tracks Now now, dont get grabby, Im a girl and I expect some respect I said calmly giving them a slight smile causing the men to laugh. Your nothing back a whore he said stepping back looking down at my bulging breasts, firmly pressing against the fabric of the robe Men I sighed, standing up from my seat making my way out the tavern. Instantly following me, I made my way down the path as per my plan, they shouted after me some rather belittling comments but I stopped next to a tree allowing them to catch up. When they got to about 10ft away from me the thieves quickly jumped out from behind trees surrounding the men, the two soldiers pulled out their swords ready but two men snuck up behind them with a rock hitting them and knocking them out. By the time they woke up they would be in the stock, stripped of armour weapons and money ready for me to kill. Leaving the scene of the crime I made my way back down into the training area Ah onyx your here, I want you to train with this Razor said handing me a huge weapon; it had to be longer than I was with a huge curved blade at the top, What is it? I asked curiously swinging the blade around finding it hard to control Its a Scythe, its the weapon they depict the grim reaper to use, so I thought it would be fitting if you gave it a try he said chuckling, which actually annoyed me. His tone making me out to be like death and that I was just a weapon for them. Getting stuck into my training I started getting the hang of it, I was spinning it around slicing though the target dummies as well as getting a feel for the way it moved, the sharpness and angle of the blade as well as the weight of it all. Onyx wake up, weve captured loads of soldiers Maggie shouted pushing me in my bed before pulling me off it waking me up as I landing on the rock floor Ow I groaned back standing up quickly following her up out the cave. Pulling my hood up I walked over to the stocks were I found 10 men in them but about 30 men tied up together on the floor, all naked and all shouting insults. Good morning gentlemen I said calmly getting all their attentions whilst I walked through the crowd up to them Now, you have 10seconds to decided who is going to die first unless you want me to pick I said giggling slightly putting a lot of distress into the men I offer my life, in return for the freed of my men a man said kneeling up whilst his men remained seated Ah, so the youre the leader I said walking up to him, my hand sliding across his jaw setting his head on fire, the men all gasped and shouted for help whilst their leader burned. No here is your freedom, freedom from this cruel world where you are force to age and kill to survive, I will send you to the place of gods, if you have lived a good life I said knowing none of them had. Their shouts and struggles quickly increased whilst I went around tapping heads setting them all on fire. 30 dead bodies no lay on the ground the people around me quickly started piling them ready to be burnt. Looking up at the sky I pulled my hood back allowing the trapped smoke to rise up in a large puff. Everybody gasped as a man appeared in front of me Hello child the men said startling me as I looked at the older man Who are you? I asked nervously I am Drov, you have defiantly grown since I last saw you he said confusing me further Why are you here? I asked looking at him squarely in the eyes. You call for me, the puff of smoke he said causing me to smile Im sorry I didnt mean to I said making him roll his eyes and chuckle You are no longer the same girl I saved in that tavern my sweet he said receiving a look of confusion from me Your the warlock that cursed me I said watching him nod hearing the gasps from the crowd around me. Why did you curse me? I asked calmly walking with him further into the forest away from the crowds Everybody has potential, you are kind hearted, just and loyal, but your also deadly, your protect those you care for ferociously. When I held you I can see a glimpse of your future, one where your die at the age of 7 in the hands of the soldiers and another where you live well into old age, your fame and legacy known throughout the land and the ages. I cursed you because if I didnt you would of died and you make this world a better place he said causing me to gasp I have a question? I asked calmly looking at whilst he smiled The warlock here said that with every life I take, I could potentially bind more dragons to me, how many dragons is it per life I have to take? I asked curiously watching his reaction. He started laughing before finally stopping to look at me, its actually about 3humans per dragon, so you have plenty of room he said chuckling causing me to laugh. So are you more powerful because of me? I asked looking at him watching him nod Every Warlock strives to be more powerful, the more power we have the more we can survive but going around killing would draw unwanted attention to me, thats why I cursed you, you will kill thousands in your lifetime and you will power me, but my goals do not involve this plane of existence he said walking through the forest. So what am I meant to do with my life, to reach this fame and legacy I asked him, not noticing that the camp was now in front of us rather than behind Continue your path, the army doesnt know of curse abilities and only your trainer, Don and the warlock know of your rage, they will find out and they will try to kill you, run away, dont slaughter them they will be helpful in the future he said before disappearing, my body stepping back into the open area. Looking around I realised I was alone, taking that information into account I made me way back to the cave. Like he Drov told me, a few months later the people found out about my rage after Don drunkenly told a few people, everybody quickly started to fear me and turn against me. Maggie stayed true to me, being my last remaining friend, granted Don, Razor or Marvin didnt have a problem with me they were outnumbered by the demands of the people to kick me out. Waking up in the middle of the night I took my leave, sneaking out into the dark forest my smoke powerful enough to see in the dark. Running for a few hours straight, I found myself at a bottom of a mountain, up there is a good hiding place I thought to myself dreading the thought of the climb but quickly putting it behind me placing my hands on the rock pulling myself up onto a ledge, climbing was exhausting and by the time I reached about halfway up it was 4am, pitch black, the wind so cold it hurt and I had to find some shelter. Looking up I spotted a ledge I quickly started putting all my remaining effort into the climb, placing my hand on the ledge I was overcome with relief knowing I was there, pulling myself up I rolled onto my back just laying their relaxing looking up at the stars, the cold wind and dark night getting to me. Dropping my head to the left I spotted a cave. A cave this far up, this better not be a dragon nest I thought slowly getting to my feet making my way into the cave blindly, there was no light inside and it was too dark outside to see in, not wanting to go too deep in I curled up into a ball by the entrance hiding behind a rock protecting me the wind, I had no wood to build a fire and if there was wood here which I doubted I couldnt see it anyway, the cave too dark for even me to see into. Clutching my knees to my chest I slowly drifted off to sleep hoping I lived till morning. Waking up the next morning I felt warm, I should be cold, why am I warm? I thought looking around the cave, my sight blurred and adjusted to the surrounding light. With everything still a blur I was startled hearing the sound of movement in the cave rubbing my temples my eyes focused and I was shocked that lying there before me was a dragon. Immediately realising I had no weapons I tried to back out of the cave, but the long rock like tail of the dragon quickly swept around blocking my exit whilst pulling me in closer. The dragon was lying on the ground watching me curiously. At this point in time I presumed I was going to die, one bite thats all it took but to my surprise the dragon just relaxed laying down closing her eyes as she breathed long calm deep breathes. Maybe she wont hurt me I thought now trapped between her tail and her body, laying down against her she quickly moved her arm pulling me in closer causing me to realise I was being pressed against her eggs Shes caring for me like one of her eggs I thought understanding my situation, not one to pass up a good opportunity I got comfy basking in their warmth. But father, I want to go out and explore the world Rosie said pleading to the king, No, you are not strong enough to survive the outside world, stick to the city, stick to your home her father replied annoyed by the constant demand to be free. Standing up Rosie quickly ran from the room in tears, hoping to make him feel guilty enough with her tears that he would let her go. I was awoken a few hours later by the rustling of the mother, her huge body stepping over me and her eggs walking to the entrance of the cave, she jumped out flying off out into the world leaving me alone with her 3 eggs. Sitting up I looked at the eggs, they were huge almost 5ft tall and about 3 of me in width I knew a little about dragons how they were one of few creatures that could cross breed successfully on every attempt, the mother was obviously a full blooded Rock dragon, but her eggs looked different, they had spikes on them like rock dragons usually did but there was a lot less spikes that what the stories I heard depicted them to look like. Also these eggs looked almost too big for the mother, it seemed impossible for her to fit 3 eggs of this size in her, granted the probably grew a bit after she laid the eggs but still they were massive. The mother had only been gone for about 20minutes before she came flying back into the cave, dropping a large cow in front of me, looking at the dragon I was confused by what she wanted but she sniffed at the cow before biting the large leg severing it completely from the body, holding the leg up she dropped it landing exactly by my feet as I soon got the idea. Picking up the leg I carried it out into an open space putting it on the floor as the mother watched me Can you cook it, humans cant eat raw meat we get sick I said calmly hoping she understand as seconds later she breathed fire on the leg burning all the hair off, I picked it up by the hoof carrying it back to my position next to the eggs happily sitting down and munching on my cow leg. The mother devoured the rest of the cow in about 4 bites, as it took me nearly 2 hours to eat one muscle on the leg before giving up and giving the rest to the mother who quickly ate it in one gulp. Thank you I said looking into her eyes whilst the wrapped her larger body around me and her eggs keeping us warm. For a few months I didnt leave the cave, a part of me enjoyed the company, and the other part of me was waiting for the eggs to hatch so I could steal one. Over these few months the eggs grew even larger, including the spikes on the outside, sitting down in the cave I had put on a fair bit of weight, I hadnt trained in months and my body although slim had lost its good looks. My clothes were starting to get to small, my six pack gone, and my breasts even larger. As the weeks went by I was starting to wonder if I was just a pet for the dragon, fattening me up for when her hatchlings were born and needed a meal, determined not to end up like that I started training in the cave, working out as best I could doing sit ups and press ups, squats and lunges developing my core muscles, only working out when the mother left for the morning hunt, in hopes that she wouldnt be angry in my attempt to stop myself getting fatter. Luckily for me her morning hunts were getting longer and longer, soon she was gone for nearly 3 hours at a time before coming back with a few wolfs or a bear. Me and the mother had a routine going on, she hunted and I protected, on several occasions humans climbed the mountain entering the cave to which I killed with my curse, the mother seemed extremely thank full hugging my tighter and even licking me a few times. Several months had passed again and it was now winter, the mother had stockpiled a large amount of meat over the last few days hoping it was enough to survive the winter for me, but I was ready. I had whipped myself back into shape, climbing up and down the mountain face to collect wood for fires. My body was stronger than ever before, my robes I wore before no longer fit me as now I wore a custom made outfit from the leather scraps and lining of the armour from men I had killed protecting the eggs. It wasnt very flattering but it kept me warm, my body turning into that of a womens, my hips slightly wider than before as my waist was back to its narrow self my 6 pack now showing again, my arms and legs were both very strong from hours of climbing and work outs but also to my luck my chest had stopped growing, making it easier to make clothes because I didnt have to worry about room for growth any more. It was coming up to December and we had collected enough food to last us the winter, it was too windy and cold to train and the mother slept for long hours of the day giving me the peace of mind to train in the cave as she slept. December passed rather uneventfully, I kept the food near the mother to keep them warm so this didnt go off, and I kept eating rationing myself each day so I wouldnt run out of food. By the time February came around and the mother finally active enough to go hunting, all my food stores where nearly gone and I was full of energy. Standing up and stretching my legs I looked down at the huge 6ft eggs which now towered above me now, I was walking behind the mother towards the entrance of the cave, but just as she was just about to leave the cave, I heard a crack behind me Stop I said loudly getting the attention of the mother who quickly turned rushing back to her eggs with me following her. True to my guess there along the side of the egg was a large crack, we waited patiently watching the eggs as soon the cracks started moving and then they all started cracking, to my surprise the mother moved a single egg out the way shielding it with her body facing her back to the other two eggs, leaving me stood there in shock with two eggs on the verge of hatching Your giving me your hatchlings? I asked nervously seeing no movement come from the mother. But soon enough it was too late to give her back one of her young as a head popped out the shell staring directly at me, I felt the bond between me and the dragon form, his eyes staring deep into my black smoke like he was looking through into my soul connecting to it and merging his soul with mine. After 2minutes of intense staring the hatching quickly went back to trying to break out of the shell breaking his eye contact with me. I started pulling at the egg shell trying to pull pieces off, and in a sudden kick of his limbs the shell shattered leaving him sat there slumping in the base of the shell, checking on the second egg I saw a limb burst through the shell before pulling itself back in as in another large thrust of movement the shell burst open sending egg fragments everywhere, looking around the dragon quickly looked up at me, his eyes focusing on mine while I felt the start of the bond form. Understanding what it was this time I relaxed my body opening myself up into his gaze, his energy his soul merging with mine, our eye contact unending until the end, just like the first dragon after only about 2 minutes of staring and not blinking the merge completed, the dragon looked away checking his surroundings before immediately eating the remaining contents of their shells. I was right, your defiantly not pure Rock dragon, Im guessing your father was a mix between an Argonion and Crystillian I thought noting the Rocky spikes like her mother but the massive size inherited from the Argonion but to my surprise the scales were dark black like her mother but with the crystallized shine of the Crystillian breed. You can turn around now I said to the mother who slowly poked her head around with her own hatching jumping around excitedly playing with its mother. Come on you two I said enticing my two new friends quickly getting them out the way for the mother to turn around. I will take great care of them I said confidently looking up at the mother who bowed her head slightly. Walking to the entrance of the cave, my two dragons quickly ran straight passed me jumping into the air, their instinct taking over as they flapped their wings flying for the first time. As fast as I could I climbed down the mountain, knowing this was the start of my new life, again. To my surprise training these dragons was fairly easy, they could instinctively hunt and after a few short weeks they were strong enough for me to ride, I often took it in turns riding them to wherever we went not wanting one to get jealous. I soon found out I had two boy dragons simply by their aggressive playful nature, in fact the only difficult bit about the dragons was telling them that they couldnt be rough with me, but after a few stern warning and a couple of cuts to my arms they got the idea and we were happy together. Walking down the path, I was thinking up names for my dragons Seeing as your both boys how about Theos and Theus I asked chuckling at the names as I heard a snort in protest come from both dragons How about two different names I asked seeing a nod come from the dragon to my left How about Fury and Rage I said smiled, thinking it was a joke name but I quickly saw both dragons nod accepting it So whos fury I asked looking at them both, the dragon I was riding quickly nodded ending that dilemma So Fury, Rage. Lets go find something to do I said happily holding on to the spikes down Furys spine, I was lucky enough to be wedged between two spikes because at the speed they sprinting at I would fallen off for sure. Racing down the path we rounded the corner coming up into a small village, people quickly cowering behind stalls watching us walked in No dont attack anybody, you only attack who I say, got it I said enforcing my power over them while they both continued walking through the town. Ok, Im going to go find something to do, you wait here I said firmly watching my dragons lay on the ground looking up at me whilst I quickly walked off to talk to a local. Please, dont hurt me the man behind the leather stall said as I sighed Im not a soldier, Im not a bandit, Ive just spent the last year inside a cave living with dragons, I need work to get money to buy some actual clothes I said looking at the man, slowly standing up he looked at me and then at my dragons What happened to your eyes? the man said causing me to roll me eyes which was rather invisible to them I was cursed at the age of 2, anybody that touches my skin will die in seconds, I know... it sucks but Im stuck with it I said stunning the man with my calm attitude towards it. Where could I go to find some work, so I can get some money? I asked looking at him hopefully making him smile, Go ask Mary, shell have a job for you the man said giving a little wave to the people watching, all of them stepping into the open all starting to relax. I thanked the man before walking off down the road to find this Mary. You looking for some work? a woman asked getting my attention Are you Mary? I asked watching her nod Then yes I am I said confidently seeing a smile spread across her face although her smile was tainted by the burn marks and scars on her neck and shoulders. Down that path, is an ambush she said pointing to the other road leading into the village The bandits are dumb putting the trap in the same place, but their numbers overpower us, if you could get rid of them for us, I would have a reward for you she said smiling holding out her hand Deal I said nodding once accepting the deal but not touching her hand, with the deal set I walked back to Fury and Rage. Ok, were going to go kill some bandits and then hunt some black bears I said climbing onto the back of Rage this time, standing up Fury sneezed sending out a small jet of fire causing me to laugh which in turn caused a few of the locals to laugh, probably laughing to mask their fear. Sprinting down the road we veered off the road hiding behind some trees watching the bandits from afar Try to go for the head, if we can sell their armour I can buy you some treats I said happily patting rage and fury on the neck Ok Fury, you go round the other side and push them onto the path, rage you and me do the same from this side I said firmly watching fury quickly sprint off jumping over the path in a flash, it was only seconds later when we started charging into the camp, my arrows shooting into the hearts of bandits as fury and Rage were swiping out feet and then biting heads off leaving the armour salvageable. It was amazing to say the least, with two dragons this fight lasted all of 2 minutes, and of those two minutes it was hardly a fight, more a massacre. You were great you two I said climbing of rage pulling his head down for a kiss on the snout before giving Fury one as well. Lets strip the bodies of their armour, you can eat them if you want I offered ripping the armour and clothes from the men as fury and rage quickly lay down ripping limbs off to join the heads sitting in their stomach. Searching around, I found several coin purses as well as a few weapons. Binding them all together we carried everything of value back to the town You killed them all? Mary asked excitedly watching me walk back into the village Yes, my boys are very well trained I said climbing of Rage giving them both a neck rub which they enjoyed. How much do you want for the weapons a man asked nervously looked over to me Ive spent a while away from civilization, how much are they worth? I asked his smiled widening to a grin About 30 silver for all of them he said calmly holding his hand out for me to shake. Deal I said nodding to the man not touching his outstretched hand, as I quickly gathered up all the swords handing them over. Heres your reward Mary said handing me a coin purse as it had in it about 80 silver Thanks I said smiling putting the money in my new pouch I got from the bandits. Moments later the man who bought my swords quickly came back handing me my 30 silver which I instantly added to my pouch. With the crowd slowly disappearing I made my way back over to the leather store, looking in at the man making some leather boots. Excuse me, I was wondering if I could make a request I asked getting his attention Oh sorry, sure what sort of request he asked standing up from his stool walking towards the counter I need some saddles for my dragons; I was hoping it could be as black as possible, and with a few pockets on the side. But currently there is no room for a normal long saddle, it would have to be thin and fit between their spikes I said looking at the man who looked interested If you would let me measure up your dragons, I would be happy to create a saddle like that he said quickly climbing out of his shop following me to my dragons who were a bit uneasy of the man walking towards them. Calm down, hes going to measure you so we can have some saddles made, you spikes hurt I said putting them quickly at ease while they relaxed not really paying attention to the man measuring them with a piece of string Where would you like the seat to be placed he asked me to which I just pointed to a gap between to spikes where I was actually sat on his back and not hovering above because the spikes were too close to let me I was also hoping you could put some pockets on the side, just so I can carry more I asked as he nodded That is easy to add, if you want the saddles in black, I will need black bear pelts I will tan them with coal to make it darker but I will need about 6 bears worth of leather he said as I nodded Ok, I will be back soon I said quickly climbing onto Fury before sprinting off. Ok boys, find us some black bears, go for the head, we need the body to stay intact I said confidently, Fury immediately flapping his wings sending us up into the air with Rage following but quickly separating to cover more ground. Flying around we found our first bear, Fury swooped down biting the head grabbing the bear by its shoulders before carrying it back to the village. Dropping the bear down the leather smith quickly got to work skinning it whilst we headed back out into the forest, searching a bit further we found another one and using the same technique of bite and grab we carried it back to the village. Arriving there for a second time I saw Rage dropping off a black bear next to our first before shooting off again. Depositing our second bear bringing the total to three we flew off searching the forests and fields, in the next 30minutes I had found 2 more bears as did Rage bringing our total to 7 Ok Fury, call back Rage I said landing in the village listening to Fury roar loudly into the sky, it was only secondly later when I saw Rage pop over the tree line flying back to us. Youre quiet the team the leather smith said looking up from the second bear as he finished the first Ok boys you can eat the bears when hes done with them, only when hes done with them I said repeating the end bit so they knew. Climbing off Fury they both scrambled for the first bear ripping it apart devouring the whole thing as people watching half in shock half in amazement. Thanks I said acknowledging the compliment Do you think you have enough bears to make me some clothes at the end? I asked as he laughed More than enough, looking at the size of the bears, I probably only needed about 4 of them he said making me laugh, I watching him skin the bears picking up the technique as I looked over his shoulder, So who are you anyway? he asked me politely as I realised this was a perfect time to reinvent myself Onyx I said thinking of the blackest thing I knew off. Nice to meet you Onyx, Im Simon he said clearly understanding it was a fake name. Heading away into the tavern I bought myself some normal food, sick of living of meet for the last year. You got any stew? I asked looking at the barmaid who nodded before quickly turning to pick up a bowl. What brings you to town? a middle aged man asked who looked like he hadnt left the tavern in days. Just passing through I said watching him walk up to me If you touch me, it will be the last thing that you will touch I said firmly stopping him in his tracks, his hand pulled back to behind his back before carrying on walking towards me sitting down next to me You very pretty, such a full figure, why cant I touch he asked curiously planning his steps carefully not knowing of my skills Because Im cursed I said turning to face him so he could see the thick smoke rising from my eyes I see, why are you cursed then? he asked looking at me whilst I quickly went back to my stew happy to eat some normal food. The was places upon me years ago, probably when I was born, my parents must of pissed of a warlock and they abandoned me once I started killing people I said rather used to that thought by now. So how did you make it, surely you would have died? he asked while I shrugged I was... I was raised in the army, nobody touched me and I trained daily, Until a year ago when they deemed me too much of a treat and tossed me from a dragon whilst over 2000ft in the air I said my anger rising causing most people to gasp at me story then gasp again looking at my smoke with was thicker and rising above my head now. How did you survive the fall? he asked nervously I landed in a lake, my body stopped only inches from the bottom of it, going any faster or and closer to the shore I would be dead I said firmly ending the story of my life there. Looking around there were a few people sat on the tables, all of them watching me, although the one that caught my eye was the man writing in the corner. Deciding not to pay any attention to him I quickly left the tavern heading back to my boys, I saw that one of the harnesses had already been made and fitted onto Fury who seemed less than bothered by the saddle attached to his body. Looking over the saddle I saw it even had some reins on the top as well as extra pockets on the side all ranging in size. Taking my coin purse off my belt I put it into the pocket, securing it shut again before relaxing down on them both as we huddled up together keeping each other warm. Waking up early in the morning I found the other saddle as well as my new clothes sat on the floor in front of me, waking up Rage with a kick to the arm he let out a groaning whining sound before getting up, attaching the saddle to his body and tightening it up nicely, I looked over my new clothes before getting Fury and Rage to make a cover with their wings as I quickly got changed. Lowering their wings down I revealed myself donning my new clothes as they fit rather well, enough room to allow me to breath and tight enough to keep my breasts still, whilst also being tight and hugging around my waist keeping my rather warm, sadly the bottom half of the outfit stopped around mid thigh, wearing the new boots he gave me they went all the way up to my knee, on the top of the boots where 4 leather laces which I noticed went into the holes at the bottom of the leather on my thighs, threading it through and tightening it up it kept my legs warm. Looking down where I found the boots was also a set of gloves only reaching up to my wrist but the fingers tips had been cut off, allowing me use of my bow. How do I look? I asked doing a little turn for Fury and Rage before climbing up onto Rages saddle, directing us away and down the road. Rosie was sick and tired of being stuck in the city, after hours of begging the king finally admitted defeat letting her leave the castle but she was still stuck in the city. And after a year or so of that, Rosie was itching to escape, everyday she thought about running away, just taking her dragon and going, finding an adventure, fighting bandits and becoming famous. With the desire too high to abandoned, Rosie planned her escape. General, you have received a letter from one of our scouts the soldiers asked looking at the larger general who took the letter from his hand Dear General, I regret to inform your that I remember the overhearing your conversation with the Captain about killing Jasmine. But, she is alive. A man asked her of her story, she says she landed in a lake and ran before you found her, However, the concerning news is that she is also in possession of two dragons, both young probably siblings but they are both fully bound to her, they looked to be half rock dragon, with a cross between Argonion and Cyrstillion for the other parent. I will trail her and find out what she is up to. Captain, I may want to read this the general said walking into the captains tent handing him the letter. Damn, send a reply to the scout to kill her the captain said firmly thrusting the letter back at the general who nodded glumly walking out the tent. Travelling for months, I faced everything bandits, trolls, witches even other dragons. I grew a reputation and was well known across the land, my dragons kept growing getting larger and larger as I kept coming back to the nice village to buy new saddles for my dragons who were both about 25ft tall. Soon my dragons where getting too big, forcing me to hunt more, a single bite would tear a bear in half and they could swallow a fully grown man in one bite which was annoying when I needed leather or armour. Moving from one camp to another, I became aware I was being followed, deciding on a new plan I flew up on Furys back flying high over the trees making our way for the neighbouring land. Passing over the mountains the sight we saw was spectacular, huge open plains of land covered the country; we could clearly spot farms houses near the fields. Swooping down both my dragons grabbed two cows each before we flew off up high heading towards the mountain; we landed on a ledge to a small cave about halfway up, similar to cave I first hid in. With a leg to myself my boys demolished their meal before relaxing in the cave, resting for the night while I huddled up between them, their warmth keeping me nice and cosy for the night. Today was the day, the day before her 18th and Rosie was determined to be free on her birthday. Waiting till dark when there were fewer guards, she crept down in her combat gear, a new outfit she had made in secret for when she did run away. Entering the courtyard Rosie made her way down towards the dragon pens, there was only 2 guards there, hiding in the bushes she made her way behind the guard sneaking into the pens unnoticed. Hey Crystal Rosie said putting her finger to her lips telling Crystal she had to be quiet Ok, were both sick of being trapped here, now were going to make a break or it, just blast us out of here and fly fast ok Rosie said confidently climbing onto the saddle on her pure bred Crystillion dragon. With her hands and feet secured in the saddle her dragon bolted out the pen, bursting through the open gap between the guards flying up into the air flying away. The castle alarm was quickly sounded but Rosie was free, she had her chance to escape and she was taking it Come on Crystal, let go explore Rosie said grinning, crystal sped up her motion using her large wings and small body to her advantage zipping through the air, her shiny scales reflecting on the moonlight making her look more like a shooting star than a dragon. She flew into the early hours of the morning, completely leaving her home country of Cyril and into Haven Ok Crystal, you can slow down now, we have well and truly lost them Rosie said her dragon losing altitude gliding down towards the ground. Walking out of my cave I breathed in the fresh air before climbing onto Rage who stood next to me. Leisurely flying towards the nearest town I was surprised at the difference in these humans to my own, these humans were short, all of them... I must of been about 5ft 8 by now and they were all short than me by almost a foot. Landing just outside the town the people gathered looking undeterred by the large human or larger dragons standing in front of them, You know that owning a dragon is against the law unless youre either royalty or high up in the army, and you dont look very royal to me a man said stepping forward sounding rather angry as I chuckled Im from Cyril, where its not illegal to tame your own wild dragons I said confidently causing all the people to take a nervous step back Their wild dragons? he asked sounding a lot more scared than before Yes, I lived in a cave with their mother for an entire year, protecting her eggs from thieves and bandits. Her thanks to me was two of her three eggs I said calmly jumping down from atop Rage making the short humans all take a few steps back What do you want here? he asked nervously while I chuckled, rather used to people being scared around me Just want to make some money, see what you have to sell possible, I heard that your people are very inventive I said happily putting them at ease, even making a few of them blush at my compliment My names John the short man said stepping forward holding out his hand Please, dont touch me, its not you, just one of my rules I said taking a step back as he nodded respectively not wanting to piss me off. Anyway, I own the blacksmith here, and my brother Marcus owns the leather smith, would you like to browse our wares the man said as I nodded walking with them to the large building, larger than buildings in Cyril yet the people where smaller. It was confusing but I didnt judge it, I was hoping I could purchase some weapons, mainly a whip long possibly 20ft long I said looking to the man as he nodded the largest I have is a 18ft whip he said as I shrugged That will do I replied quickly placing the money on the counter taking my whip placing it on my belt Any other weapons you require? he asked as I thought back to my days of training, Throwing knifes or darts as well as two daggers and if you have one I wouldnt mind a bow, I said hearing a few people chuckle. Were great at building things, is there anything you dont see but would like the man asked perking my interest Ok, I would like a rope dart, its a long 6ft chain with a metal ring on one end and a blade on the other, I would also like for you to tell me what weapons you have that I wouldnt have in Cyril I said confidently as he got busy making a drawing of what he thought I meant. Agreeing with his first sketch he got to work immediately. We have several weapons your people do not have, such as axes, crossbows and poisons the man said pointing to each weapon hanging on walls and shelves all of them looking deadly. Come back in an hour or so and your weapon will be ready the man said which I nodded back in thanks walking away. Tell me Marcus, as an inventive leather smith, how would you improve my armour or my saddles I asked looking at the man in the leather stall next door, How honest do you want me to be? he asked chuckling to which I smiled back at him not answering Your leather craft is different to ours, for example, I like your saddle design, custom made due to the spikes being different of every rock dragon, but I can see your armour is rather basic you need to have some plate gear, even if its thin and you dont wear much, leather is too weak for somebody of your level of hunting he said as I nodded But you sell leather, why push me towards something else? I asked looking curiously at him Everybody here is friendly, we look for what you need most and offer it you, plus me and my brother share income he said chuckling causing me to giggle. Ok then, measure me up, and design me a suit of armour you would deem acceptable, it needs to be light weight and with good movement, and can be worn for long periods of time and must have a hood as well as being fireproof, and black if you can make it so I said giving him the basics Also I would like for you to add some sort of decoration, of your choice, but it better look good at the end I said sounding rather firm at the end, but the small man took it in his stride, loving the challenge. Walking out from behind his counter the man pulled out a tape measure, measuring the width and length of my body without actually touching me which was I was happily relieved about. So what is there to do around here? I asked looking at the man whilst everybody else seemed to wander off going back to their daily business. Depends, if youre looking to make some money there is a large troll problem up north but if I was you I would go see the palace in Bansi, let the kings men know that youre in their land so they don't kill you on sight he said with a slight chuckle at the end trying to brighten the mood. Thanks I replied watching the short man walk away with my measurements, walking around the village I bought some food, and supplies before joining Fury and Rage by the road who were watching the locals carefully. Come on you two, lets go explore we will come back tomorrow for our stuff I said happily jumping onto the saddle on Rage as we quickly turned flying up over the forests. Lazily gliding over the vast expanse of forest I spotted a rather distressing sight on a large clearing of forest, looking down at the fight I saw a rather medium sized white Crystillion dragon pinned against the free line but what looked like a troop of soldiers as well as two scout dragons both breathing fire in a cone shape trapping the dragon and her rider in fear. I landed quickly trying to help because it was clear that other they were trapped they weren't going down without a fight, What is going on here? I asked looking to the man on the dragon, he face showing fear looking up at me on my much larger dragon You are under arrest as well for illegally owning a dragon he said proudly as I laughed, I was just on my way to see the king to let you know I was here so this exact thing wouldn't happen I said chuckling seeing a smile creep up on his face. I will go with you back to the city to inform your king, guards whoever. Who is the girl? I asked looking at the white dragon looking very scared We don't know but like you she isn't from here and she has her own dragon which is illegal for commoners he said boldly Well, I presume your dragon was a gift, I tamed my two, these are wild dragons I said his face going white with fear for all the stories that people spread about wild dragons their ferocity and power much greater than those tamed. If you help us capture this girl, consider yourself pardoned and free to enter this country as you please he offered quickly, Fury, go pinned the dragon, pull the girl off but don't harm her I said loudly as the dragon hidden behind me and rage quickly jumped forward his massive size overpowering the girl and her dragon, biting down lightly on the girl he pinned her in his mouth while placed a paw on the back of the smaller dragon pinning it down. Drop her Fury I said climbing off rage and walking up to the girl who was now crying on the floor What's your name? I asked nicely bending down to talk to her Are you going to kill me? she asked sobbing causing me to chuckle They want to arrest you for owning a dragon; it's illegal in this land. I am about to be arrested for the same crime, follow my lead and we will both get out of this alive I said calmly helping her up as I walked with her back to her dragon Control your dragon, and follow me, Fury will be behind you, if you try to flee he will take you down I said letting fury get off the dragon as it quickly came to the side of the girl. We will escort her back to the city I said smiling to the man on the dragon before climbing up onto rage, taking us into the air I looked behind me making sure the girl was following. The two scout dragons seemed rather pathetic compared to my two boys, not even a good snack too thin and bony. After a short 30minute flight we arrived at the city, the people all staring up in awe at the two huge dragons flying over them, landing in a large courtyard surprisingly big enough to fit all the dragons I dismounted staying behind the arms of my dragons just in case things didn't go to plan. I am Captain Higgins, you two are under arrest, please follow me or be forcefully arrested the man said firmly looking up at me I am Onyx, I don't know this girl, but I arrived in this land this morning and by how frightened this girl was I presume the same. If I had known you had a law against owning dragons I never would have come, so how can you arrest me for a law I knew nothing about I said clearly stumping the man who struggled to find an answer What is your business in Haven he asked I am a hunter, but seeing as you have this rule I will be moving on fairly quickly, as in tomorrow. I will take the girl with me and make sure she is out of your land I said firmly offering my proposal to the captain You turning this into a trade, if you want to be released and allowed to leave peacefully, what do we get in return he asked grinning as I laughed I was trying to escape from those I feared, I climbed a mountain and found a cave where I slept, a rock dragon lived there and instead of killing me she looked after me, brought me food and I protected her eggs while she slept and went hunting. Please I would like you to meet Rage and Fury, 50% Rock dragon, 25% Argonion and 25% Crystillion but 100% wild, my offer to you is you let us go or I turn your city into a ruin I said standing tall and bold the soldiers and captain looking genuinely scared whilst both my dragons growled showing off their large teeth. I accept your deal, please leave now and do not return he said quickly and desperately, thanking the man with a nod of my head I climbed up onto Fury flying out the courtyard with the girl following me. Where is she? the king roared at his guards who all looked scared We don't know, she got pasted the guards sneaking into her dragon pen, and burst out flying away. By the time the alarm was called and the scout dragons were ready we had lost the trail the guard said in an apologetic tone. useless, call the general get him here...NOW the king bellowed loudly echoing around his throne room. Casually flying away from the city the girl quickly sped up flying next to the head of Fury, Why did you save me? she asked curiously to which I shrugged back as a reply Seemed unfair to sentence you to death for a law you nothing about, anyway good luck on your travels I said diving down towards the mountain face as Rage quickly flew off grabbing some food whilst we landing outside a cave. Still following me the girl landed next to me not saying much but still following me, If youre going to follow me, go get some wood for a fire I said not even looking at her, watching her in my peripheral vision running off into the woods. Arriving back with two cows, rage quickly set them down just inside the cave before settling down next to his brother, another 15minutes passed before the girl came back, her arms full of branches and small twigs here she said proudly causing me to laugh Fury, could you go get us some wood for a fire please I said looking to my dragon who quickly walked about 10ft away swiping at a tree knocking it down in one go, biting the tree in half he used his claws to create a large hole in the trunk before carrying it back placing it in the cave. Oh the girl said looking at the large chunk of trunk now before her. Picking up her twigs and some leaves from the tree I set them on fire burning in the hole of the trunk Youre not going to survive for long out here I said chuckling watching Rage bit a leg off each for me and the girl before he and devoured the rest of the cow. Placing the leg of the fire it quickly cooked it burning off the skin leaving me with just the meat, I took a few bites letting the girl see what to do as she quickly copied my actions. Who are you? she asked nervously watching my lay back against Rage's body casually eating my cow leg Onyx, people call me onyx I said calmly looking at her And the story about you living with dragons, was that true she asked as I smiled Yes, I lived with the mother for a whole year, although I tell the story a bit differently to how it happened but the facts are all there I said calmly her eyes riveted to me whilst she eat her cow leg. well what actually happened then? she asked looking at me I was looking for a place to hid, so I climbed up a mountain, at the time it was about 4am, pitch black and cold. Finding a cave I quickly huddled up inside hoping I survived the night. Waking up in the morning I found myself being stared at by a dragon, a pure bred wild rock dragon, but as I tried to run away in fear, she used her tail to stop me pulling me in before trapping me between her arms and her legs. Over the months she went hunting and brought back a wolf or a cow which I eat before giving her the rest, after a while we sort of became friends one day bandits made their way back up the mountain and I killed before they reached the eggs. After that I had the mothers trust. Over 6 months I had stopped training and I was eating loads causing me to put on a lot of weight, so determined not to be the meal for the new born dragons I started training during the times she was out hunting. As winter came she slept more so I trained then as well, she also started stockpiling food for me, so I spent days going up and down the mountain to gather wood and food hunting animals and then carrying them back up the mountain. The day the eggs hatched the mother took one turning the her back on the other two who were then bonded to me, the next day we left, went back out into the world knowing that one dragon would let me survive easily, two would let me do whatever I wanted I said calmly telling her my tale even though the truth had a slightly different beginning. So who are you? I asked looking at the girl who was completely still focusing her attention on me I'm... I'm.. she stuttered clearly trying to think up a name If youre going to create a name, don't stutter, it makes it obvious it's a fake name and thus your an important person who would be in trouble if people found out your real identity I said calmly giving her some advice as she nodded What would be a good name then? she asked making me laugh I'm guessing your escaping something and you want to re-invent yourself. What's your dragons name? I asked looking to the white glossy dragon he was lying down next to the girl Crystal, she's called Crystal the girl said as I chuckled Crystal the Crystillion dragon, why don't you name yourself another gem possibly Ruby or emerald, sapphire is nice I said naming the gems I knew making her smile I'm guessing Onyx is your name because your dragons are black and glossy like the actual gem she said as I laughed Actually Onyx is my real name, I just got lucky with my boys I said lying to her making her grin Well it's actually Onyx Young, but that doesn't sound as good as just Onyx I said lying again making the girl giggle So what would be a good name for me? she asked me curiously, I'm not sure, you dragon is white but Diamond doesn't really work as a name, how about Opal or Pearl I offered her watching her think about it, I like pearl she said confidently decided it there and then. Well then pearl, get some rest, I have things to do tomorrow and then I'm taking you out of this land I said climbing into the arm of rage drifting off to sleep whilst Pearl cuddle up to Crystal doing the same. You called for me my king the general said nervously stepping into the throne room Yes, it was your responsibility to train a protector for my daughter, she is now dead, my daughter is now gone, is it was your task to oversee her protection I am tasking you with going out to find her. I don't care if youre gone 2 days or 2 years, but you better come back with her or I will be setting up your execution the king spat gritting his teeth in anger at the man standing before him Yes, my king the general replied quickly making his way out the hall not wanting to anger the king further. Travelling down to his dragon he quickly mounted it flying off over the land. Waking up the next morning I quickly rolled the tree trunk out of the cave which was now burnt to a crisp, stepping out into the fresh air I quickly woke up the others before casually walking away from the cave enjoying the feel of walking for a change. Pearl and her dragon quickly caught up with me whilst Rage and Fury quickly ran past playing with each other, knocking each other over and playing a bit rough Why do you let them do that? pearl asked walking next to me on her dragon dragons are animals like everything, we are a species of animal though we are smarter, they are stronger, like a lot of animals they play fight together to get used to the act of fighting, they both train each other increasing their strengths and abilities. With two brothers there is always a contest to see who is stronger so they both push themselves I said calmly explaining it to her whilst I walked down the road towards the village I went to the day before. So how do I get crystal to be a good fighter? Pearl asked curiously She can play with my boys if she thinks she can handle it, but they do play rough but your tough Crystillion scales should help you out I said calmly watching Pearl jump off her dragon as Crystal quickly ran off running under Fury as she shoulder barged the inside of his leg knocking him over. So where are you going after we leave this land? Pearl asked looking at me intently I don't know, go explore go further than before, find new people kill new criminals I said giggling walking down the path, rounding a corner I spotted the village of large houses as well as spotting my dragons getting dangerously close to it Come here I shouted firmly my voice carrying with the wind hitting my dragons who quickly bounded over to me excitedly, Don't play too close to the village, I don't want to spend all day repairing buildings you knocked over I said happily walking through the entrance to the village as the people seemed pleased to see me again. Leaving the dragons at the entrance we walked in whilst I headed straight for the blacksmith store with Pearl following me closely Hello boys I said happily getting their attention as they both were working away attaching armour to a wooden figure. Ah you back, just in time. We finished your armour and weapons Marcus said proudly showing me the armour on the wooden life size figure of me. That looks great I said looking at the armour, the whole thing looked like a corset, a few leather straps for support and some engraving down the sides of it. Do you have somewhere I could try it on? I asked looking to the men who nodded Step inside, you can put it on upstairs he said happily leading me into the store as Pearl stood waiting outside. How do you know her? John asked calmly smiling up at Pearl She saved me from the soldiers she replied proudly looking around the store, If you have the money, we would quiet happily build you some weapons and armour the man said hopefully startling Pearl I don't know how to fight or anything, I just took my dragon and ran pearl said saddening herself, her smile quickly vanishing. Don't be upset, with a dragon life is easy, I'm guessing yours is the white one John said chuckling at his obvious statement causing Pearl to laugh Yes, so what should I do to make money, I can't hunt and live of the land forever can I Pearl asked adding the hint of a question at the end whilst looking down at the man who was tidying up his workspace. If you want to be like Onyx be a hunter, go around hunting animals, skin the pelts and sell them in the villages for money, or you could do missions. Most villages have a notice board explaining things that need doing that we can't usually its bandits or animal related so you can hunt them and get the reward John explained interesting Pearl to no end. Walking down the stairs in my new armour both men and pearl stopped to stare at me, the boots made out of black Crystillion scales with a soft fur lining on the inside, the boots stopped at my knees with a series of leather ties around the back. My thighs were now protected with a thin sheet of leather covered again in black glossy Crystillion scales, going up further my chest piece looked like a corset, going through my crotch stopping just at my boobs holding them firmly in place. The scales again going all the way around it making it look very cool. The suit also had some gloves, the scales covering the top of my hand and my forearm though only covered the top half of my forearm. Lastly I had a thin black cloak, long enough to use as a blanket but with a hood attached to the top, the cloak have small amounts of black scales sewn into them making it very beautiful. I love it I said looking down at my body feeling very strong and powerful in my armour, That's not all Marcus said walking up to me and lopping a black leather belt around my waist loosely making it rest on my hips The lining is black so it would go well with your previous armour, you will notice these part here, these are for your weapons Marcus said before quickly walking away coming back with a wood tray full of the weapons I asked for Throwing darts are easy to mask he said motioning me to move my arms whilst he clipped in the black darts under my forearm until all the spaces were full, Whip he said clipping it onto the leather belt Rope Dart he said putting that on the back of my belt. Your new bow he said going to the side picking it up, Wow I said stunned, the bow was large, larger than any bow I had ever used, the wood was jet black with a thin metal place covering the front in a nice design. Giving the string a pull it was tough, the wood bent very little and had great spring to it Thank you I said calmly looking at them both We also have your daggers, which slide into the sheath's here and here he said pointing to my inner thighs handing me the perfectly balanced blades watching me slide them into the sheaths. That comes to a total of 7 gold 50silver he said firmly which I nodded too Totally worth every copper I said handing him the money as I counted it out on the table for them both to see Also I made this for you, on the house John said reaching under the counter placing a short axe on the counter You didn't have to do that I said graciously picking up the axe giving it a spin in my hand before attaching it to my belt on the spare side. Thank you so much you guys I said grinning widely as they both smiled nodding watching me. What do you guys think? I said walking up to Rage and Fury, both set of eyes watching me intently before the both started jumping around excitedly showing how much they loved it, Ok then let's go, we need to leave this land and go get some money, this armour has made us poor again I said patting Rage on the side before climbing onto his saddle. Taking off into the air we flew over the city heading in a straight line with Pearl between Rage and Fury so she didn't make a break for it. Flying on his dragon the general flew in a straight line asking locals if they had seen a white dragon flying, as a few of them said they saw a really low shooting star, taking the lead he found a straight line of people asking before skipping the other villages following that line constantly looking down for any signs of dragon activity. Finding nothing in the line he travelled he reached the mountains that lined the edge of the land, flying over he found himself in Haven as he knew if she came here she would be arrested by now. Changing his course the general headed straight for the kings city. Making our way over the forests and villages we found the large river than looked wide enough to separate lands, lowing our altitude we landing by the river giving our dragons an opportunity to rest and get a drink. Climbing down off rage, I walked around checking my surroundings, looking down the river I saw a small clearing and what looked to be a village, letting the dragons play I walked down the edge of the river checking my weapons getting to know them falling instantly in love with my whip. Occasionally checking behind me I saw Rage charge into Fury diving both of them into the water, their natural instincts taking affect when they both started swimming splashing and dunking each other. Getting closer to the village I called my dragons out the water whilst Pearl quickly called her dragon out as well, we walked together into the side of the village, the locals looking at us with fear and curiosity What do you want here? man equal height to us said stepping forward trying to look menacing Really, is every village we visit going to interrogate us I said rolling my eyes stepping forward looking at the man in his eyes, whilst his own kept going up and down my body Typical male I thought stepping past the man looking over the stalls I am just a hunter who has two dragons, were not here to rob your or do anything, I am looking for a bit of work and possible some good food I said loudly letting everybody know I was safe though they still all remained cautious. So youre the hunter, who's she? a man asked licking his lips staring at Pearl who stood nervously next to her dragon She's my apprentice, and will snap your neck like a twig and then her dragon will eat your hideous corpse I said stunning the man who quickly walked away heeding my threat. Why did you say that? Pearl asked walking next to me while our dragons lay down not letting go of the tough act, You clearly haven't seen the open world, men are animals if they knew you were a commoner you would have been tied up and raped repeatedly by now, you have to be tough to survive I said firmly looking through the stalls examining the walls of the blacksmith for anything that I had never seen before. Regrettably there was nothing new and this village was rather dull. Excuse me a voice beckon, turning I saw a frail old women swatting hands of people trying to pull her away whilst she looked at me We have a problem that I think you could help with, but my daughters believe you are the wrong person to ask the women said catching my interest Tell me and I will say if I am wrong for the task I said confidently stepping forward We have a bandit problem, but the bandit leader has a dragon. Would you be able to rid of us those bastards the women said sounding angry at the end causing me to chuckle I am the perfect woman for the job, I'll be back in about 20minutes I said with a smile Good, they live further north by the Hrovan Falls the woman said whilst I walked passed her climbing onto Fury as we took off searching for the bandits hideout. Landing in the courtyard of the Hevan city, guards instantly surrounded the general through the huge 10ft body quickly had them quaking in their boots I am looking for the captain the general said firmly looking around the men Ah general, you reputation precedes you Captain Higgens said walking into the courtyard, his hand on his sword in its sheath while walking towards the armoured giant. I am looking for a girl, young about 18 on a white Crystillion dragon the general said surprising the captain Who is she to you? the captain asked getting angry at the thought of the two girls that threatened their way out of the castle. She's important, where is she? the general said taking a step forward as all the lances were now aimed at him Tell me before I make you all a head shorter the general roared putting fear into their hearts and eyes. She is not important, the important one was her friend, threatened her way out with her two wild dragons, if you want somebody to hunt, you should hunt her the captain spat causing the general laugh Onyx was here? he said chuckling to himself Yeah, that's her, threatened to send the city into ruins if we didn't let them leave the captain said making the general smile where did onyx say she was going? the general asked climbing back onto his huge dragon She didn't she said she would drop the girl off outside our borders and that was it the captain said turning to walk away What direction? the general said firmly causing the captain to turn around East, toward Ravensine the captain said walking backwards before turning and leaving the courtyard. With a few flaps of his giant wings the general flew up on his dragon looking for the right direction before taking it, flying fast trying to catch up with the runaway princess. Finding the waterfall, we landed in a burst of fire and flames. Rage went straight for the dragon biting down on the head killing the dragon instantly whilst we all slaughtered the rest of the bandits. It's beautiful here Pearl said climbing down from Crystal sitting down on a bench looking around. Come on Pearl, no time to sit around we have scavenging to do I said piling the bodies together as I stripped them of everything. What are you doing? Pearl asked helping whilst a bit hesitant, We can sell the armour and weapons back to the village, the bodies will be eaten by our dragons. When you clear out a hideout like this, there is usually loads of things we can sell I explained perking her interest as we both quickly stripped all 23 bandits feeding them to our dragons, Crystal only ate one about after the 15th body both my dragons were stuffed Burn the rest I said watching Fury and Rage breath fire on the body's burning them until only dust remained. Your right, this place is beautiful I said sitting back to look around with the bodies done with. Rage, go find the exit that the bandits used to get our and block it up I said leaving him to it whilst I looked around the camp Why are you doing that? Pearl asked looking at me then at Rage who was causing a cave in on the tunnel the bandits used to get in. I'm a hunter, I would live a good life without dragons, with them I live even better, with two I can live any life I choose. Blocking the entrance makes this place only accessible by dragon and I will make this my new home I said looking at Rage who was walking back from the tunnel which was now just a pile of rocks. Why do you need a base, I thought hunters just travelled around everywhere Pearl asked as I looked around the camp at all their petty belongings Some do, but I like to collect things and living in caves and off cows gets annoying, it's nice to have some place to call your own I said honestly looking at pearl who obviously understood. Are their rules to being a hunter? Pearl asked as I shrugged Yes, but there are rules for everything, never steal another hunters kill, never speak of another hunters base and if anybody asked where another hunter is you say you don't know and point them in another direction, we are nice people but we are killers and some people don't like that I said calmly watching her look around the waterfall. Anyway, you've seen how to kill, how to talk to people and how to hunt. I'm sure you can survive on your own now I said calmly watching Pearl, nodding back at me she climbed onto the back of her dragon turning to say good bye. One last piece of advice, follow my rule and if anybody touches you, kill them. If they are royalty or very important they get one warning, if people are too afraid to touch you then you will never be afraid of them I said watching her smile and nod Also go and collect the reward for this task, consider that my gift to you I said sitting back down watching her thank me again before flying off out the open roof of my new home. Flying back to the village, Pearl quickly collected the reward buying her a bow and some arrows to help with her new life. Climbing back onto Crystal she took off heading towards another village hoping they had some tasks for her to do, flying over the forest she felt herself lose the heat of the sun finding herself in a huge shadow. Looking up she saw the belly of the dragon whose claws quickly grabbed a hold of Crystals waist taking her to the ground, letting go at the last instant the huge dragon landed casually whilst Pearl and Crystal tumbled against the ground. Quickly pulling out her bow she aimed it at the man on top holding herself stead whilst he laughed I didn't know you could shoot princess the voice boomed as he climbed down from his dragon, instantly recognizing the voice Pearl panicked taking a few steps back as Crystal was now on her feet standing beside Pearl. I heard you met Onyx, are you still with her? the general asked walking forward, his dragon walking with him though they both towered over Pearl and her dragon No, she promised to get me out of Haven and she did, she said something about going back to Cyril, to meet an old friend Pearl lied stopping the general in his tracks. She did? he asked curiously as Rose nodded I see, that's good news, now tell me how have you and how are you going to survive out here alone the general asked starting to walk forward again towards her. Onyx taught me enough, not how to fight but how to act and what to do Pearl said proudly Do you even know who Onyx is? the general asking laughing whilst Pearl looked nervous She's a hunter, she tamed wild dragons and is very kind Pearl said aiming her arrow again at the general who just laughed at her Onyx, was called Jasmine, I saved her when she was two, I raised her in the army, when she was 16 I took her out on my dragon to go get her one, she was training to be your protector. But during an aerial fight with a wild dragon she fell from the dragon and landed in a lake, did she ever tell you about the time before she was in the cave with the dragons the general said, his story making sense. Youre lying Pearl said defensively. She listened to stories of a hunter who went to the camp, that's how she knows everything; she was trained by me for 14 years. I bet she has new armour and weapons, so tell me how many commoners have you met that are trained in whips, rope darts and throwing knifes the general asked stumping Pearl. So what if she is who you say, I can look after myself Pearl said coming to no other conclusion as she fired the arrow at the general. Her aim was off and it only skimmed his arm, the second she fired the arrow she ran, climbing onto Crystal and flying off as fast as she could. Her small size and agility meant she quickly lost the general, diving down back onto the forest floor Pearl hid in a cove, poking her head out watching the general flying passed her rather quickly hoping to catch up to the princess he unknowingly passed. Once the general was gone from sight, Pearl stood thinking about where to go next. I'm not going back to Onyx, she doesn't know who I am, she thinks I'm just a girl on a dragon Pearl thought to herself happy with that knowledge But, maybe she could train me, and then I could go and be a hunter on my own Pearl contemplated, trying to decide the right course of action. If I go on my own now, I could train on my own and also Crystal would be trained she thought quickly deciding on the latter. Taking to her dragon again, they flew in a different direction, searching for a base she could call her own where she could train and live in peace. After a few hours of flying the General gave up the hunt, heading back to Cyril in hopes of meeting Jasmine who was apparently on her way back to him. I was busy checking through the contents of these bandits, a fair bit of food along with a hefty 20 gold stash hidden under the chest as well as a further 2 gold I the chest. Picking up the weapons and armour I tied them all together with a bit of rope but slinging them over the side of Fury and Rage before making out way back to the village. Your friend already collected the reward a man said watching me land I know, I'm here to see if you would buy any of these weapons or amour, fairly decent shape I said watching to men check the loot on my dragons before nodded I'll give you 90silver for the swords the man said to which I nodded cutting down the rope handing him the swords whilst the other man came round to face me Yeah, I'll give you 60 silver for the armour he offered which was actually a good deal, taking it instantly I cut that rope down as well before leaving them with their items and flying back to my base. Over the next year and a half I stayed in my base, only venturing out to check the villages for tasks and to hunt for food. The tasks remained rather dull and boring, the other group of bandits and the occasional warrior who though he could just threaten his way into getting free stuff, landing next to the village the locals seemed totally at ease with me and my dragons now Any news of anything new? I asked walking in paying for an apple whilst talking to a few of the locals I hear Jhronvar has been nearly over run with bandits and warriors. Also I heard that there were also dragon attacks in that area she said intriguing me having not seen a dragon in several months. Thanks, I will go help them out I said calmly walking back to my boys climbing onto fury before flying off towards the infested town. Landing near the town I climbing off my dragon, looking around I see the streets were empty, doors looks and windows shut, people hiding in their homes for safety. Walking up to the tavern I could hear the drunken noise coming from within, stepping through the door the whole room when into a silence as over 30 male eyes watched me. You sexy, why don't you come here and I'll make you happy a bandit said trying his luck with me but I quickly stomped on his foot pulling out my axe slammed it into the side of his neck killing him instantly. That was a brave move, think you can do the same against me a large man said standing up tall, his large clunking armour obviously too big for his body. How about we make a bet, whoever beats me in a fight, gets to keep me I said quickly walking out the bar listening to the scrambling of feet as they followed. Standing out in the open, Rage and Fury hiding at the sides the men all drew swords as I pulled out my whip and axe. I will not be shared, so we fight 1v1 I said stating the rules which they quickly agreed to. You going to enjoy being mine a man said stepping forward going first, but before he could do anything I whipped my whip around wrapping it around his head several times before yanking it hard, snapping his neck. My whip quickly came back to my with the force of my pull whilst the body of the man just dropped to the floor, the next guy quickly stepped forward brandishing his rusty sword taking a few swings which I quickly dodged, evading his 4th swing I countered spinning myself round slamming my axe into his head before pulling it out letting him fall to the floor. Over the next 20minutes I killed them all one by one, those who remained getting particularly angry about it. Lets kill this bitch a warrior spat angrily walking towards me with two of his friends, 3v1 that's not fair I said hearing them laugh Allow me to even the odds I added confusing them Fury , Rage... lets end this I shouted causing all the men to look around noticing the two dragons watching them. Breathing flames from both sides we burnt them all to a crisp, those who tried to charge me to run away quickly found themselves dead at the hand of my axe or dagger. People of Jhronvar, consider yourself safe again I shouted loudly, listening as doors and windows opened, a few people nervously stepping out into the open checking the mass of bodies on the floor. Thank you ever so much A man said thanking me before turning and shouting that it was safe to come out. Thank you so much, if you ever need anything, just ask no charge the man said thanking me again. I took the offer before walking out of the town, I figured they needed the money more than I did and at the minute I had enough to last a few years. I heard you had a dragon problem, where can I find it I asked looking back down at the crowd from the saddle on Rage She's a troublesome dragon, she lives in those mountains, near the peak a women said with a smile, happy she could go back to her life. Taking to the skies I made my way up to the peak. Passing through the clouds I spotted the cave only about 100 feet from the peak of the mountain, landing on it I heard a roar come from within. Sadly the cave was too small for either of my boys to travel down so I was forced to do this one alone, I walked down the slope the light being reflected of the ice in this cave. After a short 2 minute walk I found myself In a large cavern, inside was a beautiful dragon, around her sat 6 piles of rocks, each with a large egg inside. Hiding being the ice wall I watch the mother as she set the rocks on fire, keeping the eggs warm which I guess was how her race of dragons looked after their eggs. Walking into the cavern I attracted the attention of the mother who looked angry, turning to face me as she readied her fire Wait I said holding up my hands taking a few steps forward If we fight, you risk losing the life of your young I said her mouth instantly closing considering my advice. If we fight, ultimately you will die, I have two dragons outside that will charge in here if I am hurt, you will not survive and thus nor will your young I said watching her turn away setting fire to the rocks again. Let me help you, my boys will bring you food, so you can stay here and look after your eggs I said trying to find a safe solution, thought to be honest I really didn't want to have to kill this dragon. Your desperate to get food quickly, and you've attracted the attention of us humans, they sent me here to kill you I said watching her turn and growl at me Wait, I'm not going to do it, instead let me offer you a deal I said hopefully looking at the dragon Let me take one of your eggs I said hearing her growl again Let me have one of your young, I will train it, look after it and love it like I do my two already, In return I will bring you all the food you need to survive I said calmly watching her as she looked like she was thinking it through. Watching the mother I saw her nod accepting my deal making me very happy Good, I will go tell me dragons to get you some food I said quickly before running out the cave. Relaying the information to my boys they both jumped from the ledge to hunt in their usual excited manner obviously happy they didn't have to kill a dragon. It's easier for us all if I stay here with you, saves me travelling from my home to here to bring you food I said walking back into the cave. Oh by the way, my boys will make their own cavern in here for them to sleep, just so your eggs remained protected they are both quiet childish and like to play fight I said sitting down next to the mother dragon as she kept glancing her eyes between me and her 6 eggs which in this position made a semi circle in front of her. I told you if you didn't come back with her, you would be executed the king shouted down at the general who stood his ground She found Jasmine The general said stunning the king What? he asked a lot calmer and more curious I followed Rosie's trail she went into Haven and was arrested, Jasmine who goes by the name of Onyx now saved her, the both travelled east into Ravensine. When I caught up with Rosie, she was alone. She told me that Jasmine came back here but she hasn't so I know that they are both still together in Ravensine the general guessed telling this information to the king who finally settled down You said you had killed her, like I ordered, she is too dangerous and youve left my daughter with her, why didnt you bring her back the king shouted stunning the general who thought it would all be ok My apologys, I know where she is and I will bring her back the general said quickly turning to run from the king before he had a chance to arrest him. Flying from town to town Rosie, who everybody knew as Pearl had also become quite popular. She had been training daily with her bow as well as purchasing and axe and daggers, her new armour was good as well, it covered more skin that what she remembered mine to cover, but she liked it none the less. Pearl had kept her white saddle she had before but had upgraded her dragon with armour, metal gloves with sharp metal claws were on every hand as well as a large metal helmet and a metal spine cover with sharp spikes on it going from the base of the saddle to the tip of the tail. Both their training was going well, they were both used to killing and scavenging, Crystal being very good at controlling her flame and even created a fire ball effect instead of just a long jet of fire. Pearl was very deadly both far away and up close, she still preferred her bow and arrow but when needed she could easily slice and dice her enemies. Anything problems that need taking care of? Pearl asked landing in Jhronvar as the people seemed fascinated with her armoured dragon I'm not sure, we had a dragon problem but Onyx hasn't returned for the reward and that was a few months back, nor she or the dragon have come down since that day the women said nervously obviously presuming the worst. I will go see Pearl said hoping her old friend was still alive. Reaching the top of the peak she walked on Crystals back into the cave, reaching a fork she turned left immediately finding Fury and Rage together sleeping. Turning around Pearl heading into the right tunnel going a bit further but finding herself facing a large dragon with Onyx laying next to the dragon. Onyx? Pearl said loudly waking me up and the mother who instantly growled at her. Pearl, get out quickly I said running up to her dragging her out of the cavern calming the mother down. What's going on, the villagers think your dead Pearl said rather angrily causing me to laugh Stay with Fury and Rage, the mother only lets me in her cavern I said calmly walking them in to the cavern with my boys who were awake now, clearly excited to see crystal. Why are you sleeping in there with her? Pearl asked as we sat down and talked. I explained the whole situation about the deal and the food. Which made Pearl laugh hysterically So youre getting another dragon? she asked still laughing Yes, I thought if I could befriend a dragon like before, I could do it again I said proudly clearly achieving this goal. Why do you need more dragons? Pearl asked as I chuckled Because, the day you left I went out hunting, leaving my dragons in the base, I spotted you getting caught by that huge dragon. I also listened to the story he strung you and seeing as I now know who you are, I figured that I would need more help in keeping you safe I said obviously annoying her slightly I've looked after myself fine for over a year now, I don't need you she said defensively as I smiled I know, but I don't mean against bandits, how long did you think it would take for somebody who worked in your castle to send word that the girl riding the most beautiful Crystillion dragon out there is the princess to Cyril I said hearing her gasp That and the general lied to you I hissed at the end Why what part wasn't true? she asked curiously as I looked away I wasn't carried off by a dragon, if I was I would have scars, he threw me from his dragon and I saved myself, in a straight line down I would have hit the ground but I guided myself into a lake. After that everything I said was true I said firmly confirming my facts causing her to gasp Why did he throw you? she asked as I shrugged because Im cursed and your father believes Im empowering the enemy, which Im not I said gritting my teeth as I stood up Let's take you to the mother, I'm sure she is worried, leave all your weapons here I said pointing to the pile of my weapons. Walking back to cavern with the mother she growled looking up at me She's a friend, concerned about me. I've been missing for several months now I said chuckling at the end, the mother lay her head back down but her eyes firmly fixated on Pearl watching her while she sat down next to me. She's beautiful Pearl said looking at the foreign dragon, not rock, Argonion or Crystillion which were the normal three, this mother was jet black with no gloss, fairly average size and no spikes, but the mother looked fearsome, the eggs however looked massive, even in their rock houses, standing at about 7ft tall. Maybe she's a Shaden dragon Pearl asked intriguing me We both know our secrets, so I might sell not hide my knowledge, I read books on dragons in the castle library, Shaden dragons are usually very black, and are very quick. They aren't very powerful as a pure bred due to their size, but it's clear she's bred with an Argonion Pearl said teaching me something new. Could even be a half breed, rock and Argonion, you can't see under the stones and she won't even let me get close enough to check I said sitting back handing Pearl an apple before taking a bit out of one for myself. So how have you been this last year Pearl asked as I shrugged Boring really, killing bandits and these rogue warriors, its all too easy. I sometime let the boys play in the waterfall and I go do it alone just because I want a challenge I explained relaxing into the ice wall eating my apple. After I found out who you were, I often thought about coming back and asking you to train me, but you taught me all I needed to know and I have trained myself Pearl said proudly causing me to smile Well the fact your still here and better armoured than before is proof enough you have succeeded I said complimenting her. So what are your plans for the future? Pearl asked as I shrugged Go home, train my new dragon and probably go to another country, explore the world as it's been 3 years and I've visited a total of 3 countries and one of them I was there for only 2 days I said jokingly causing pearl to laugh. Your right, I'm looking for a new challenge, there are never any missions to go slay dragons or fight evil villains, and its just bandits and bears Pearl said sounding all sarcastic at the end. This dragon mission was the first I had heard of in about 8months, give it another decade and their wont be a single wild dragon left I said feeling rather sad about that. How long do you think it will take for those eggs to hatch? Pearl asked as I followed her gaze to the rock piles No idea, they are larger than the eggs I was living with before, and I was shorter back then as well. Could be another year or another hour I said calmly lying down on the ground watching the mother guard her eggs keeping them warm with her fire. Several months passed again and more wars broke out, the war between Cyril and demont had ended but now a war between Haven and Cyril has started, all over control of land. Hearing a roar, I quickly woke up shocked finding men in the cavern, running up to the closest man I took his sword from his hand slicing him down the back, his body dropping to the floor in pain and with a final stab to the chest he died. Slicing my way through the men I saw Crystal bounding out their cavern jumping onto the men pinning them down as her claws tore limbs from bodies, making my way from the back of the crowd to the front I stabbed and sliced into the men but it was all too late, in the corner of my eye I saw the man lunge his sword forward going straight into the body of the mother going through the gap in her scales where her neck join her chest. In a fit of rage I slaughtered them all in seconds, Pearl quickly ran up to the mother pulling the sword from her chest causing her to whine in pain. Lowering herself to the floor the mother looked at us both before looking down at her eggs, blood was pooling by her body as her breaths shortened, hearing her take a deep breath she breathed a flame moving her head so it hit all the eggs. Dropping her head to the floor she took her last dying breath before closing her eyes for the last time. Walking up behind me I watched as Rage and Fury walk to each side of the mothers body, in what looked to be a sort of ritual, aiming at her belly my two dragons sent the fire directly onto her, the heat burning through her heat retardant flames, soon enough her body was a flame, crumbling down into dust. Walking up to the head of the mother Crystal did the same, her eyes quickly melting allowing access inside her body as the flames quickly burnt the mother down. None of the dragons looked particularly pleased doing this, but they each gave a final fire breath for fire upwards before walking away. At this precise point I was lost, I didn't know what to do. I planned to just take an egg and leave, but this was a true mess, So I guess we take 3 eggs each, I'm not going to let them die I said justifying my offer before telling Fury and Rage to keep the eggs warm, immediately they add to the dwindling flames lying down on each side of them so they could monitor three of them each. I'll take one but I don't want to have 4 dragons Pearl said firmly as I nodded, I honestly didn't care, I was happy to take 5 of them if I owed it to the mother to take care of one, I wasn't going to let the others die in her absence. Ok, You take one, I'll take the others I said firmly moving over to fury as he lay on the ground watching the eggs intently Could you take care of the hunting until they hatch I asked looking up at Pearl as she nodded slumping down next to Crystal, both of us resting, too shaken to sleep. What do you know of my daughter? the king asked looking at the captain who looked incredibly worried We had heard of a town in Ravensine called Jhronvar, they sent Onyx up there to kill a dragon she never returned, Rosie who goes by the name of Pearl heard the same story and went up to there to kill the dragon, she too hasn't returned. We sent up a squad of men up there last week and they too haven't come back down, we fear the dragon up there has killed all of them the captain explained watching the kings reaction as his face jaw hung low, he dropped down to his knees just staring at the floor in shock I want you to find whoever is responsible and kill them, I don't care if your start a war against Ravensine he said weakly not looking up just staring at the floor. I will personally go and kill the dragon the captain said quickly leaving the king who still knelt on the floor staring into space. A few days later I was quickly awoke by a shuffling Fury, opening my eyes I heard the distinct sound of shells cracking, that sound had never left my head since the day I first got Rage and Fury. Waking up pearl I threw a nearby apple at her, missing her I hit Crystal instead but her movement woke up Pearl Their hatching I shouted loudly instantly waking her up whilst Rage and Fury turned sideways, using their tails to block out one of the eggs which Pearl quickly stood next to Ok boy, look away, as they have to bond to me I said firmly looking at my two boys as they turned their head to the sides, looking over their tales I saw Crystal turning around as well but I was quickly distracted by the sound of cracking egg shells. Looking at the most cracked egg I quickly went up to it pulling part the shells letting the large dragon flop out onto the floor. Grabbing the baby dragons head I made eye contact creating the bond between us and not letting go until he did, over the next 8 minutes I bonded with 4 of my dragons who were now bouncing around eating out the egg shells and playing with their sibling who bonded with pearl. Walking up to the last egg, I felt upset it only had a few cracks it in Help him out I said to Fury who lay next to him, lifting up his hand he pressed down lightly on the shell the resulting effect being it cracking at the bottom, pushing the egg on its side the baby dragon slide out trying to climb back in to continue eating the tasty goodness inside. Grabbing his head he looked into my eyes created the bond, staring into his eyes I felt his heart and soul merge with mine he face softening and becoming more calm while he looked up at me. By the time he looked away I was exhausted, emotionally drained my loved spreading out to all 7 of my dragons now. The ground covered in egg shells and rocks where were scattered everywhere. Rage, Fury you have to train these young ones, teach them the rules and what to do. Make them strong and powerful I said watching them stand up, quickly climbing onto Fury we walked out the cave, Pearl going first she jumped from the ledge on Crystal as he baby dragon quickly followed desperately flapping its wings getting used to flying before they both went off down to the floor. Doing the same on Fury I went first, all 5 dragons quickly jumping off following me while Rage followed behind often nudging the young in the right direction. Flying down from the mountain peek we landed in the on the ground next to Pearl, the young dragons immediately running around playing with each other exploring the grassy area. I guess I will see you another time Pearl said rather meekly as I nodded You welcome to come stay in my home if you want, but it's up to you I offered to her but she quickly denied it It's ok, I can't want to begin training my little one she said happily Bye I said waving watching her fly off as her baby dragon excitedly followed her Ok lets go home I said taking off again. Turning around in my saddle I faced backwards watching my new young while they flapped franticly whilst others gave out little bursts of fire. Looking at them in detail it was obvious they had Argonion in them but I could also see a bit of Crystillion in them which surprised me, their jet black scales slightly glossy causing the sun to glinted off each one. Reaching our home we quickly landed and the young ones looked rather tired from the flight, all of them went under the lip of the cove they were in, protected from the sun before huddling up together drifting off to sleep. Ok boys, go get us some food, were going to need a lot to feed all of them, so I suggest you get it from afar to stop the locals coming to get us I said calmly watching them fly up into the air and out of sight. Flying directly to the cave he sent his men to the captain landed on the ledge, pulling out his sword climbing off his dragon, he carefully stepped into the cave moving down the left fork he found nothing, but turning down the right fork into the large cavern he saw a mass of eggs and rock. What the hell happened here the captain thought to himself looking around, picking up an apple he saw a human bite mark inside, to small to be male She didn't tame more dragons, there has to be about 4 eggs here the captain gasped in his head looking at the mess on the floor I better get out of here before the mother returns with her hungry young he thought moving back out the cave as flying away as quickly as he could. Arriving back with food Rage and Fury both carried a cow in each claw and a bear in their mouth, You realise that we going to have to move soon, we will eat too much to remain hidden I said calmly looking at the cows and how many villagers are going to be mad. Smelling the new meat one of the young dragons quickly woke up and his bounding over his siblings bodies quickly woke them up as they all went in ripping at the meat. Taking a cow each Rage and Fury quickly eat there before watching the young ones tearing limbs from bodies and crunching bones into dust with their already powerful jaws. In less than 40minutes all the meat was gone and in its place sat 5 very full and happy dragons, clearly full of energy they were running around bouncing around the open space jumping onto Rage and Fury trying to play fight with them. Sitting back I looked at the journal from the leader, it was only about 4 pages in and about nonsense so I quickly ripped the pages out starting my own. Over the next 4 hours while the dragons played and wrestled each other I wrote everything that happened in my life starting at the day I climbed the mountain and up to this day. Putting the journal in my satchel I put on all me armour again, putting back on all my weapons I had taken off during my time in the cave. Looking down at my body I knew I had to start training again my six pack gone and my armour slightly tighter, pulling out my bow and arrow I shot at my targets boards getting my aim back up to scratch. So did you find anything? the king asked standing next to the general who were both waiting eagerly for his answer I don't know, when I got there the cave was empty, but there was signs of heavy blood loss he said looking at the faces as they both went glum. But, there were a lot of egg shells and rocks scattered around and I found a half eaten apple with a female bite mark in it he said smiling causing both men to look up So what do you think happened? the king asked I think Jasmine went up there and probably gained the dragons trust and was working on taming another dragon, I presume to the locals she appeared as missing making Rosie go up looking for her who then joined her. The men we sent, they killed and when the young were born they took an egg each leaving the mother with the rest the captain said causing the king and general to laugh So you think my rose has another dragon the king asked hopefully as the captain nodded confirming it. 2 years later and I was 21, Rage and Fury were fully grown and huge, standing proud at 27ft tall and over 70ft long, my young dragons, were no longer the small things they once were, all of them now stood at about 19ft and were all very deadly. We left Ravensine after a few months and we spent our time raiding farms while we travelled the lands, 7 dragons was like my own little army nobody dared go near me not even guards. We slept in the open all huddled up as no cave was big enough to hold us all, we me in the middle I stay protected as Rage and Fury would stay on the outside, their spikes proved enough defence to keep us safe at night from any attacker. My young dragons had grown up well, they listened to me and followed all my commands instantly, and they all play fought during the day as I found they were all quickly talented night hunters. Just like their mother they were very quick and despite their large size they inherited from their father, they only grew quicker using their higher strength to propel themselves forward reaching very high speeds. I had met with Pearl on several occasions but she never stayed for long, her young dragon who she named shadow was always happy to see her siblings and they always had fun. Going through the towns I rid them of any pests and problems getting enough money to create some metal collars for my dragons, engraving their names on them all so I never made any mistakes. Two of the 5 young dragons were girls which were fun to mix it up, there were obvious differences in personality the girls followed me everywhere whilst the boys would often run off together play fighting and generally being boys. Hey Onyx a child said walking up to me whilst I stepped into a village, You know who I am? I asked curiously while the childs mum quickly grabbed her daughters hand Everybody talks about you, and your dragons the little girl said sounding rather cute at her young age, smiling down at her I called forward Jewels, one of my female dragons who immediately bent down licking the little girl making her laugh, picking up the young girl I placed her on Jewels back causing no end of giggling to come from the girl. So are there any bad guys, I have to get rid of? I asked the mum looking under Jewels neck who was flicking her attention between Jewels and her daughter We have a few trolls, but we can handle those, if youre looking for a challenge I would suggest venturing into the Black marsh, its just beyond those mountains and only the most monstrous creatures live there, no people at all just monsters the woman said making her daughter cheer Onyx is going to kill all the monsters the girl said attracting the attention of other locals. What sort of monsters? I asked interested in peoples shock I dont know their names but their hideous, the ones that can fly sometime fly of the mountains and steal some live stock but they arent natural, multiple eyes and huge talons, I would say they were bigger than jewels here the women said only increasing my interest. Well why dont we got by some supplies so I can go slay this monsters I said walking up to the blacksmiths looking through their wares See anything of interest? he asked looking back at his store proudly Ill buy all your arrows and rope, 4 axes and a spear or scythe if you have one I asked taking him back with the order Well I have over a thousand arrows, are you sure you want all of them? he asked looking at me curiously while I just nodded in response, I have several Scythes, I would recommend this one if youre going into the Black marsh, its stronger and sharper than the others he said handing it over the counter letting me test the weight and the motion having never used one before. This will be great I said placing it back on the counter while he pulled off 4 axes off the wall adding it to the pile on the counter. Whats the most powerful weapon you have, seeing as they monsters are going to be quiet big? I asked looking at the man watching a smile widen on his face. I dont have any strong weapons, but I have some traps he said showing me a few traps. No thanks, I will be just fine with these I said confidently not really knowing how they worked and not wasting my money on things that had a chance to go wrong. That will be 6 gold then he asked politely as I pulled out my coin pouch handing him the 6 coins stunning a few people that I had 6 gold on me. Jewels, can you call everybody here please I said climbing up grabbing the daughter before jumping down handing her back to her mother whilst Jewels roared loudly. Within minutes all my boys were waiting just outside the village, getting a few locals to help us carry the arrows we soon has the each side of the dragon coated in them with about 4 quivers on each side. I then attached two axes to Rage and Fury on their saddle before going back for the scythe, If anybody comes looking for me, direct them towards me I asked the women who quickly nodded watching me walk out the village to the line of dragons standing strong watching me Ok, were going over that mountain to a land full of hideous monsters and creatures... so you know what that mean, were having a big dinner tonight I said proudly climbing up onto fury who stood at the end, flying up into the air we flew together climbing high over the mountain before diving down again. The air was thick with fog as well as dark clouds that looked unmoving, Scout can you find us a clearing or sheltered area I said loudly my vision highly impaired but I heard the sound of wings sensing his body passing me. I knew scout had the best eyes and this was proof enough when we turned suddenly following him down to the ground. Landing on the ground we set up camp at base of the mountain, behind us was a large cavern not very deep but it was large enough to fit all of us in there. Quickly taking off all the arrows I placed them in two piles in the middle of the cavern so it was easy to reload when needed, Ok guys, these monsters live here, their used to the dark so were going to struggle for a few days till our eyes adjust. Scout, get some sleep your on watch tonight as I presume it will get darker I said firmly not seeing anything but just hoping he was following my order. Feeling everybody huddled up we did nothing, just relaxed hoping our eyes would adjust. For the whole night nothing happened, we were hidden and we were quiet. Waking up in the morning I was surprised to find myself able to see, although not brilliantly the fog had cleared up and I could see about 40ft in front of me. Ok guys, your free to hunt but stay as a group I told them watching them fly off together whilst Fury stayed to protect me. Looking around everything seemed different, there were unusual sounds coming from in front of us, my bow was always in my hand and with the lack of sight I was becoming slightly paranoid. Looking out of the cavern I spotted movement along the tree lines, and focusing my eyes I in fact saw several thing moving closer, dark figures which hunch backs made their way towards us Be ready fury I said calmly slowly pulling the quiver of my shoulder knowing it was too obvious. Slowly sliding an arrow into the bow I watched the figure, 8 in all their bodys large and disfigured. They looked like humans walking on two legs but getting a better look at the shadow they were hunch backed and had huge claws for hands, not taking my chances I quickly lifted my bow aiming straight for his chest before releasing an arrow, speeding through the air the air defiantly hit something causing the beast to howl out in pain. As quick as I could I drew out more arrows aiming for the beasts not running towards me, aiming for those closest the air was filled with howls of pain and agony the beasts all dropping to the floor rolling around as I fired another arrow into them killing them. Walking out into the open I looked down at the beasts, to my shock they looked like wolves almost identical to a wolf apart from the fact they walked on two legs, wrapping the rope in a knot around the beasts head I hung them from the surrounding trees, hoping it was deter other beasts. With all 8 beasts strung up I quickly went back into my cavern preparing myself for anything that might come through the darkness. Over an hour later a huge body dropped in the clearing, the dragons landing on and around it, this thing was huge, much larger than even Rage as it must of stood over 40ft tall. This thing looked like a bull I said looking at the giant head with two horns and the hooves on the feet, Ok guys tear me off a muscle and dig in I said calmly watching the dragon tear of part of the leg dropping it in front of me, using Fury to quickly cook it I dug in watching my dragons eating away at the beast. Finishing my tiny part of the leg I was full, but the dragons kept eating and soon enough all the muscle was gone, their jaws breaking into the bones sucking out the nutrient filled bone marrow. My king, I have good news the captain said rushing into the throne room whilst the king was eating his lunch, the absence of his daughter taking a toll on him Rosie has returned, shes in the courtyard now the captain said immediately perking up the king who stood running for the door heading towards the courtyard. True to his word as the king stepped down the slope there before him stood his daughter, fully grown at the age of 21 with 2 dragons by her side, one considerably larger than the other. Rosie the king said nervously stepping closer to his daughter getting her attention Hello father Rose said grinning running to give him a hug, her armour hitting his robes. Where have you been, what have you done? he asked frantically sitting down on the bench in the pens his gaze flicking between his daughter and the two armoured dragons. Where do you want me to begin? Pearl asked smiling whilst her father just grinned Start with what happened with that dragon in the mountain, I thought you had died her father said as rose told the story. I was travelling around with Crystal and Shadow as per usual when I had heard storied of the dragon that killed Onyx, so obviously I went to investigate and when I reached there I found out that the mother had 6 eggs, she couldnt leave them as they would get too cold and die and she herself was starving. Onyx made a deal with the dragon so that she would hunt for her in return for one of her eggs, the dragon accepted and she remained there for several months, I found her and I then joined the same deal hoping to get a dragon out of it as well Pearl said explaining the story to her father, Then one day we woke up to men in the cave, we fought them off to save the mother who was trapped behind her eggs, unable to attack in fear of hitting her eggs and not wanted to breath fire because she needed it to keep her eggs warm. We killed all the men but they managed to kill the mother, it tore Onyx up Ive never seen her so upset Pearl said making the king feely guilty that it was his men they killed. Anyway, it was only a week later when the eggs hatched, Onyx offered me three of the six but I knew I couldnt look after that many so I just took one Pearl said her father nodding intently Onyx said that if the mother trusted her enough to have one egg, there was no way she was going to leave the rest to starve and die, so she bound herself to the other 5 dragons Pearl said watching her fathers jaw drop She has 7 dragons? the king asked shocked That was then, she might have more now but I doubt it, its hard to feed 2 dragons let alone 7 Pearl said chuckling. So what happened then? the king asked impatiently wanting all the details That was about it, we left the mountain and Onyx went back to her home and I went back to my camp, we split paths then, Ive only seen her about 5 times in the last few years since Ravensine Pearl said shrugging as the king looked angry So you didnt stay with her, the general said you stayed with her and she protected you the king said sounding rather annoyed She trained me in what I needed to know, but I wanted to explore, she had done exploring and was making a home for herself, training her two dragons back then and helping the locals Pearl explained trying to calm her father down but to no avail. Ive spent the last year going around Ravensin and Demont hunting and helping out the locals Pearl said proudly distracting her father who smiled at her do you know where Onyx is now? he asked curiously causing pearl to smile I dont know exactly, but I heard from a few villages that she went into the black marsh, looking for a challenging hunt Pearl said causing her fathers jaw to drop again The....the black marsh, but nobody goes there he said stuttering just thinking back to all the terrible stories he heard of that place Yeah, but with 7 dragons I think she will be fine. I think I draw the line there Im smart enough to know I wont survive the black marsh Pearl said chucking watching her father give out a sigh of relief. So how long are you staying for, I know you hunters never stay in one place for long the king asked sounding a bit upset but happy he got to see his daughter Not sure, a few weeks maybe would be nice to see the people again. But I have a problem Pearl said looking to her father with a serious look on her face Your army, it needs to change Pearl said firmly her father immediately adverting his gaze the first day I met Onyx she told me to follow the rule of no touching, I have had to kill 9 men because of it and its only been in the last year they leave me alone, Ive been watching your soldiers rape women and pillage villages. The fact is, your always at war with one country for another and they take advantage of the law, did you know the only reason Onyx was in the army was because the general saved her from being raped at aged 2 Pearl spat standing up while her father just stood there looking down You havent been... No, I listened to Onyx and because of her advice she has saved me from my own fathers army Pearl hissed not even being able to look in her fathers eyes. Im going to go walk through the city pearl said flatly and calmly quickly walking off down the path into the city leaving her father sat at the bench speechless and torn. Welcome back princess Welcome back Locals said bowing at Pearl while she walked through the city in her armour, her right hand resting on her axe casually making her way through the city. Checking the cities blacksmiths Pearl could help but laugh at what she remember to be the greatest blacksmith in all the land making such shoddy armour compared to that of Ravensine and Demont, even Haven made better armour than this. Restocking on arrows, Pearl made her way around the city meeting all the old friends she had made before she left My havent you grown dear an elder women said coming from the side of Pearl Hello miss Featherwind Pearl said calmly looked at the old women, all the memories of her tales flooding back to her in an instant. Youre defiantly not the naive girl that left here, I take it you had fun exploring the women asked while Pearl quickly went and joined her on the bench. It was great, met lots of people from different lands and I helped save thousands of lives from bandits, dragons and trolls Pearl said proudly looked at the woman who just nodded listening I see your quite the fighter now the women asking letting out a small chuckle at the end, Not really, I very good with my bow but that about it, the more weapons I carry the more people leave me alone Pearl said explaining her tactic which caused the old woman to cackle crazily. Waking up from a night of gorging, I found the area clear and surprisingly my eyes had adjusted slightly more, I could see the beasts hanging from the trees, their bodies around 6ft but with huge claws and covered in fur, they even how manes and snouts like a wolf. Better not eat those in case their some sort of mutant human I thought seeing the resemblance but wanting to keep my body healthy, cannibalism would make me no better than the beasts we came to slay. Up you get, lets go hunting before it gets dark again I said standing on rage jumping on his back before moving over the dragons standing on them pushing them down trying to wake them up. With a few whines in protest we were all up and ready, attaching 3 full quivers to my back I climbed onto Rage deciding it was time to explore this horrid land. Flying just above the tree line I spotted the odd shape jumping from tree to tree, and even some things sprinting across the floor. Looking to my left I saw a light, it was bright and stood out clearly in the dark landscape a fire, maybe there is life here after all I thought changing our direction towards the fire. Looking down from above it was a bonfire, in the middle of the clearing with 5 strange looking humans surrounding it, landing in a circle we trapped them their faces all filled with fear looking up at the huge dragons. Who are you? I shouted jumping down from rage with my bow drawn and aimed at their heads while I slowly walked forward. The 5 creatures cackled a almost female human laugh We are the 5, and you are Jasmine one of them said stepping forward What makes you better than the beasts here and give me one good reason I shouldnt put this arrow through your skull I hissed at them, furious that they knew my name How do they know my name, nobody knows it unless.... their witches, ok Onyx play it safe I thought planning my escape knowing they cant be trusted We knew you would find us, why do you think we made the fire the witch said his its odd tone, almost arrogant with a hint of fear. If I was meant to be here, then somethings meant to happen, do it now before I get my dragons to burn you into dust I said firmly stepping forward my arrows ready to release and only about 10ft away. Very well, we have made these especially for your dragons and this one for yourself the witch said picking up a satchel by his feet which I felt was overly conveniently placed. What are they I asked watching him through the satchel to me. You people believe that we just conjure cheap tricks and cant be trusted, although its partly true we have a plan and we like help in the grand scheme of things the witch said watching me bend down to pick up the satchel. Breaking my focus for a brief second to pick up the satchel I quickly put it over my shoulders before standing up, but the witches were gone, instantly vanished from sight as I could see my dragons looking around nervously. Walking up to the small fire I emptied the satchel in my hand, inside were 8 small vials 7 with pictures of a dragon and one with a picture of a human drawn on the front, looking up at my dragons who were all fairly close now looking at the vials in my hand I figured we were meant to drink them. Open up I said excitedly looking forward to see what results came of it, taking the seal of the first dragon vial I poured the contents into Rages mount before going around in a circle emptying the contents into each of their mouths before giving myself the human one. My potion tasted of water, no smell, no taste nothing Its water, I got all excited for nothing I said sighing really hoping I had some sort of magic enhanced super body. Anyway, lets make our way back to camp, its starting to get dark I said firmly climbing onto the back of Rage. Arriving back at the camp, I felt a bit odd my stomach was tingle and I could see my dragons were facing the same problem, lying down to rest I desperately hoped we didnt just consume poison. The middle of the night came and we were all asleep, however I was soon woken by the felling of being moved. Opening my eyes I was in shock that I could see everything so clearly, detail beyond what I thought could exist, looking at me dragons I saw them shuffling together but it wasnt shuffling, they were growing. Everybody up I shouted screaming at them as they all quickly woke up noticing the problem before scrambling to get out the cavern. With everybody out we all stood around watching each other in shock while the changes too effect, my body felt strong I could smell more and see more any sound I hear I could pin point immediately, realising this was the vial we drank I quickly began examining my dragons with my new eyesight. Rage and Fury were both growing larger, their spikes lengthening as well causing both their saddles to snap and fall to the floor. My 5 Shaden dragons were also growing, their wings now huge and almost double the length of their body and they looked to be about 40ft long, standing tall at around 25ft I was shocked at their growth. Rage and Fury stood taller around 35ft and they were defiantly longer possibly being 50 or even 60ft long, with their heads bending down I felt smaller than ever, their large teeth almost have the length on my body. Releasing a roar Furys voice deafened my sensitive hearing, travelling across the land as I swear they could have heard it back in Ravensine. Ok guys, when you feel well enough, you can go hunting you need a bigger diet now I said calmly looking at them before their huge wings collided with each other not allowing them to get any flight. Going up one at a time they were soon all in the air flying around, with my heightened sight I was watching them swoop around breathing insanely large torrents of fire on their enemies, they were only got about 4 minutes before the came back carrying a huge beast, similar to the bull in size except this was a snake a huge colossal sized snake. Landing it back in front of the camp I quickly tore off a large chunk of meat for me, letting my pets gorge on the feast before them. Pearl, had met and caught up with everybody she knew in the first day and now she just spent time with her father who was planning army tactics against Haven and Demont, two wars on either side, it almost looked like they were fighting a losing battle. With some knowledge of fighting now Pearl actually manages to help choice the positioning of the men giving examples of when she fought with her dragons. So when are you leaving? the king asked calmly looking at his map and the small flags he used to depict how far the enemy had invaded Tomorrow, Im going south across the seas to find out whats down there Pearl said calmly moving a few more pieces putting the soldiers in a better position. When are you coming back? he asked while Pearl shrugged I dont know how big the land is or how long the flight it but once I explore that land I will come back and visit Pearl said happily stepping away from the knowing there was no better position for her fathers men, good, I hope you find something extraordinary he said smiling, finally relaxed and at ease of his daughter going alone. Me too, you never know the land might be rich in gold and gems Pearl said laughing walking through the castle with her father. Going around the black marsh, I soon found they werent that monstrous and we killed them fairly easily, looking around the camp it was a mass of bones, I kept the skulls intact to each side of the cavern, ready for when we flew home. The snake skull was the coolest, its fangs were the length on my body and it looked deadly even attached to the white bone. Using the body of the snake we make a skeleton ring around the cavern keeping us safe but it wasnt like we needed it, we woke up at the slightest snap of the twig and any beast the tried to sneak up on us was quickly killed. To say the least, I was wasting arrows. My dragons with theyre new size killed the largest of monsters with ease and I spent my time shooting down birds or wolves from a great distance, my increased sight and strength making my arrows fly faster and further than ever before, down to my last quiver of arrows I decided to save them just in case I needed them. Flying around the black marsh we found that the monsters quickly started running and hiding when we got close, seeing them flee filled me with such pride how I turned the monstrous hunters into feeble prey, going further than normally before I went about the length of Cyril deep into the black marsh, the darkness seemed never ending. We soon found a dark river at the end, the fog slowly drifting into the water whilst the clouds stopped at the edge of the land, not going any further making the black marsh seem very eerie from the outside. Flying over the river we landed on the other side, allowing my dragons a chance to taste some normal water, the lakes in the black marsh we so dark you could tell the different between water and slime. Filling ourselves up on water I looked around in the new land, nothing like the black marsh, but nothing like the other lands this was forested but it seemed hotter here, the trees were different. It was a jungle. Too full of water to fly we walking into the jungle, hitting trees along the way while we followed a sort of path of dead grass going through the jungle, heading up to larger path I found this one had stones in it, somebody built this path, but which way does it lead? I thought looking at both ways before deciding to go left back towards the river this is the shortest path so if theres nothing we go the other way I thought deciding my plan, sitting on the neck of fury I had a great vantage point, the spike on his back to thick to sit on and his new strength that I could sit on the top of his neck without being a bother, trying to look over the tree I struggle my head bring just below the canopy line but I could see under the leave. Walking down the path I found a sort of statue, it was a stone statue of a dragon with some small tokens at the foot of it, So there are humans here I thought calmly before turning around making my way back down the other path I jumped off Rages head onto the tail of Jewels running up the length of their spines and jumping from dragon to dragon until I stood atop Furys head who was now leading the way. Looking around I checked the wildlife, all of smaller than the bests in the black marsh, the largest one here being something about the size of a cow. Making our way down the path we passed several stone ruins, they looked old and unused possibly the humans died out here, or something killed them I thought looking around at the animals all watching us curiously preparing themselves to run away. This path seemed ever ending, we walked for hours and it was all the same, odd curves in the path and just jungle with animals watching us. Going on for another hour I was getting nervous Weve been walking for hours but that mountain line isnt getting closer where we are? I asked nervously Everybody spread your wings I said testing it as although we hit nothing I heard grunts and thuds like people were hitting the ground. Everybody spin, break anything your near I shouted firmly watching us all spin around wildly their tails hitting each other by doing no harm, however we could hear crashing and shouted and then we heard a large boom like thunder ripping through the sky. the lightning bolt struck the ground in front of causing a bright light, the world changing around me, looking around I spotted dozens of humans wearing leather with colourful markings on their body, all holding spears near us, looking behind I saw the statue in a crumbled heap on the floor while I tried to figure out what just happened. Biting down on the humans we kill half of them but the rest managed to flee and run away. So it was a magic statue? I said aloud trying to figure it out We were in a trance, but in fact we werent moving and were easy prey I said gasping at how close we would of been to being defeated with such ease. Flying up we headed down across the land hiding up on a large mountain to rest for the night. Pearl was tired of flying across oceans, she was tired her dragons were tired and this ocean seemed eternal. Flying up high above the clouds Pearl thought about Onyx and what she was doing right now, she had heard stories of how the monsters in the black marsh were huge larger than any dragon and more destructive than any army. I hope shes ok Pearl thought leaning back looking up at the clouds while she flew to the new world. The next day I woke up surrounded by the same man who tried to kill me, instantly pulling out my bow aiming it at them I stood up waking up my dragons who growls blaring fangs at them but they stood undeterred. Stepping to the side an old woman stepped forward, clearly respected by the other men she sat down on the floor near me, gesturing her hand out slowly I sat down both men and dragons in a stand-off while the only two girls here sat down in the middle. Placing my bow on the floor next to me the women calmly grasped my hands, her pupils dilating so much so that her entire eye became pure black Your Jasmine, and Onyx, you have your dragons, your here to explore and find new beasts to slay. We are Doni, we are locals the women said calmly, I think she was reading my memories and copying my language to talk which was very impressive if not a little be weird. My sons think your black beasts are here to kill them, leave now and do not return we are the Doni we are more powerful that you could imagine the women said calmly letting go of my hand gasping for air before looking around. What makes you so powerful? I asked taking hold her hand again Our magic, you are no stranger to the magic though we use it for a different purpose. We use it to better ourselves and to keep the world fair she replied a faint smile creeping in from the side of her mouth as she looked squarely into my eyes. You dont want to be powerful; you have reached your goal. To become a legendary hunter and to help out those who cant help themselves the woman said calmly her face relaxed whilst she held a firm grip on my hand Go home, live with your dragons as the family, the family youve always wanted to have. the women said firmly her grip loosening before breaking completely. The men behind her quickly came to the womans aid helping her up before walking away from me and my growling family. You heard the women, lets go home this place and her freak me out I said firmly standing up climbing onto Fury as we made our way off the mountain searching for home. My king, Captain Higgens men are working their way into Cyril they have already claimed the northern villages as their and the King of Demonts men have also started working their way inland, both armies are pushing our men back if Hyans men reach Davenport he could set up a big enough base to make a large enough assault on the city the Captain said moving the pieces on the map to show where the armies were at. How many men have we lost? the king asked nervously looking at places to position his men. Over 10 thousand so far, we have another 20 but I am pulling them back the captain said the king calmly approving of his decision. Because of Davenports position, perhaps the two armies will fight each other for possession of the town before launching an attack on us the king said moving the pieces to suit his theory. We could possibly flank both armies; if we can lower their numbers it might buy us some time or give us a chance to push them back the king added looking at the pieces, both men standing together going through endless possibilities for what course to take. Diving back down through the clouds, pearl was instantly annoyed finding herself in the middle of land, thinking she was still over see she dropped down checking to find land but instead was flying high above thick dense jungle. Gliding down to the ground she landed by a waterfall lets her dragons have a chance to rest and recover from the long flight, jumping off Crystal she took a short stroll around, hoping to find any sign of life. Bending down to take a drink of water with her dragons, Pearl mistakenly didnt notice the men surrounding her, hiding in trees and bushes using everything around them to mask their bodys and allow them to get closer. Hearing a slight crunch behind her pearl turned drawing an arrow aiming it at the man in the open whilst her two dragons looking around using their tails to pull the others into to a group whilst she held the stand-off with the man. You follow the man said quickly running down through the tree, whilst Pearl quickly jumped up on Crystal following the men. Who are you? a voice said behind Pearl, felling a hand on her head Im pearl pearl said nervously answering the voice You lie, you are also Rose, and your black dragon is a sibling to Onyxs dragons the voice said stunning Pearl You follow same warning we give Onyx, you leave this land and do not return the women said before letting go of her head. Stopping still Pearl blinked a few times before noticing the dozen men surrounding her, all with spears pointed at her. Clearly startled pearl took the warning, flying up into the air and flew off, heading back home immediately not wanting to suffer that again. My king, the armies are reaching davenport our men are now in position the captain said calmly looking to the king for an answer Prepare the men he replied firmly watching the captain turn and run from the castle back to his dragon. Arriving back in Cyril for the first time in 4 years, I was shocked by how much it had changed, loads of the towns had now become army bases, as well as the entirety of the northern side of Cyril had become a war zone. Flying high above the clouds I used my superior sight to see through the clouds down at the armies fighting. Landing on the peak of the mountain I looked down at them, hidden from the height. Lying down on the peak I watching the men fight below, not even noticing the spider crawl up my leg, feeling the movement I tried to brush the creature off but before I could he sank his fangs into me injecting his venom. Sitting up I stopped on the spider, though my head was dizzy the venom taking effect. Almost falling down Rage caught my with his claw carrying me back to the large cave my dragons were building, clawing out the walls with their large nails. My dragons were confused, I was getting sicker and I wasnt getting any better, days turned into weeks as the venom slowed down my body and I co no longer hunt or do anything. The dreams I have every night are getting progressively worse, constant images of wars and bloodied battle rage through my head, two armies, two kingdoms and two friends battle it out. It all happened the same way, every night. Right down to the fight between to the two friends and each night a different fight sequence is performed sometimes one person would win others the opposite. But before the final blow can be given I wake up. Every night its the same dream, some much blood is drawn in the dream its unreal, the roaring of courage deafened by the overpowering shriek of pain from the fallen. Having to witness such a sight is traumatic but the daily involvement in the dream has gone passed torturous. Opening my eyes, adjusting to the sights around me I try to remember how I got here, thinking back I tried to remember what I did yesterday, but nothing comes to me, my mind is a blank page all I know are names and my training. Oh how valuable my training feels right now, stuck in the cave, unable to do anything my body wracked with pain and unsteadiness. Climbing out of the mass of bodies I was covered in I allowed my eyes to focus, the walls were rock so was the floor in fact all around me was just rock. Taking my first steps again I made way up the slope heading towards the light. Gazing over the horizon from the slight vantage point I had, I could see everything, the capital, the forests, even the place I used to call home. Jasmine, you need to lie down a rather dreamy voice said behind the echo of the cave making the sound ever more enchanting, turning to find the source of the melodic voice my vision blurred, my brain in agony like a thousand daggers in my head. I dropped to my knees clutching my head, willing to the point of pleading for the pain to stop, writhing around on the floor my wish was granted, the pain so unbearable that I lose consciousness, the darkness sweeping over me like a thick fog like blanket. Coming to my aid the owner of the softest voice I had ever heard dragged me by my limbs into the cave, using her own pet they carried me deep into the cave. The distance to the entrance too far for me to walk in my brief moments of consciousness, propping me against the wall of the cave the girl sat down, exhausted from the day of fighting. When I awoke I yet again, searched my surroundings finding the light of the outside gone, the cold air of the night chilling me to the bone, Rest... the voice said pushing me back down whilst I tried to get up, What...What happened? I asked confused, my eyes focusing enough to see the girl in front of me, the long blonde curls of her hair draped elegantly down the most beautiful of armours, her eyes gazing into mine. The electrical blueness sending shivers down my spine, even the whites of her eyes were pearly white. Looking up at this girl I had never seen a more beautiful sight, not a single imperfection and the most flawless skin I had ever seen. Regrettably, I couldnt say the same for my one eyes their blackness only proof of my nature, I had no eyes, just empty sockets filled with black smoke. Never ending smoke that rose out my eye socket to my temples, only rising higher when I was angry and was the only evidence of my curse... Waking up again I covered my eyes with my hands stopping the flow of smoke, causing it to fill up in my sockets. Letting go of my hands a puff of smoke rose up and Drov appeared in front of me I wondered when you would call he said chuckling Save me I pleaded looking up at the blurry figure who stood above me Very well he said calmly, I didnt see him do anything but my vision instantly cleared up and I felt instantly normal again. Thank you I said normally, my body no longer in pain. Standing up I stretched my back watching Drov instantly disappear, only seconds later to see Pearl walking down the tunnel towards me You should be resting Pearl said looking me whilst I laughed Im fine now, all cleared up. Hows the war going? I asked waking up Fury who was asleep in front of me. The war is endless, are you sure your fine she asked looking at me curiously whilst fury looked ecstatic to see me awake and acting normal. Kicking his legs out her caused a domino effect of movement waking up all my dragons before following me out onto the ledge. Im guessing youre going to fight with your father? I asked Pearl standing next to her, I dont really want to get involved, Im a hunter not a soldier she said calmly watching me How did you find me? I asked curiously watching the fight below, the armies charging in together both Haven and Demont fighting for Davenport whilst the Cyrillian army waited, hidden in the flanks. Not every day you see 4 huge black dragons flying as a group carrying food Pearl said causing me to chuckle Go back to your father, Im going to end this I said firmly running up to fury and climbing onto his back, jumping from the mountain with all my dragons following me. Gliding down my dragons quickly blocked out the sun getting the attention of all the soldiers whilst I landed in front of Davenport whilst my dragons landed next to me in a line. The whole two armies frozen, watching me as I jumped down from Fury walking towards them both, my dragons following me, causing all the soldiers to step back. Who here, decided the actions of their army I shouted my voice carrying in the wind over every ear and sending fear into their hearts. You will send your armies home, you will end this war and you will do so now, or I will bring your army down to single digits I said loudly. Pulling out my scythe I swung it around a few times before hearing the roars of men charging towards me. Flying up in the air my 5 younger dragons started setting fire to all the soldiers whilst Fury and Rage stood by my side, their scales to tough to be hurt by the soldiers whilst I starting slicing through them all none of them getting close enough to hurt me. With the fight turning into 10v1 against me, I felt my anger rise, my smoke going high above my head. Slicing my scythe down a soldier managed to slice my arm, although it wasnt very deep, it stung like hell. That slice was the last straw, looking to the man I felt my rage just overpower me, the smoke turning instantly into large flames towering about my head. Spinning my scythe I let go sending it hurtling into the man who consequently went flying back over a hundred yards. Reaching behind my back I pulled out my rope dart, holding onto the chain I started swinging it in a circle, the bladed picking up so much speed that it was damn near invisible. Walking forward with the spinning blade I starts slicing through the men, armour just falling to the floor whilst the blade went around slicing through skin, each soldier receiving about 100 slices before their body even hit the floor. My dragons were slaughtering them, Fury and Rage were stomping on them breathing fire into those remaining alive. In 20minutes we had destroyed two armies; those last remained survivors had retreated back into their own camps making their way back home whilst I turned to face the Cyrillian army who were no longer hiding. I am not on your side I roared sending my dragons after them as a new war instantly broke out between Cyril and me. Looking up I saw three dragons fly towards me, recognising the generals I presumed the other two where the king and Captains. Jasmine... please stop this the general pleaded landing a little in front of me whilst me dragons tore through their armies. Consider this a fresh start, no more soldiers means your new ones will follow the law. And no soldier will abuse the laws you set I said looking up at the captain and king who were furious. Walking up to them I tied my rope dart to my belt again looking up at them, the general on the biggest dragon but the king who looked most angry. Burn her the king said firmly ordering his dragon who unleashed his fiery torrent upon me. With his flame over I stood there unharmed watching him, my armour still intact as well making it look like the fire did nothing How the king asked shocked at me still being alive Im fire proof I said firmly pulling out my bow send 5 powerful arrows into his dragon, the force so strong they broke through the tough skin piercing the heart. Anybody else wishing to try and burn me I said looking to the general. King, for ordering my death, I give you one arrow I said firmly shooting him in the thigh causing him to scream out Captain, for going along with it I give you one arrow I said shooting him in the arm causing him to scream out. And general, you threw me from a dragon, you tried to kill me I said walking up to him putting an arrow into my bow while he started backing up on his dragon. Fury, Rage I shouted as my two dragons pounced on the generals pinning him down by the wings trapping the general. I give you two arrows I said firmly firing them into his thigh and bicep. I control the lands now I spat at them all before calling my dragons. Hello again Onyx I voice said behind me, before a sharp shooting pain started in my leg. Turning around I saw Maggie, wearing her robe whilst holding a dagger. What are you doing here I asked confused at her arrive whilst she laughed at me Im here to kill you she said before running at me again with her dagger, pulling out my whip I quickly snapped it around her chest trapping her arms before pulling her to the ground, giving her a face full of bloodied dirt. Ha, I was hoping I didnt use my power to kill you Maggie spat whilst laughing, seconds later the whip caught on fire releasing her from the trap, dropping the whip I pulling out my axe quickly charging out her whilst pulling out a dagger as well. I dont know what Maggie was doing but it she was creating a sort of force field with her body, the axe hitting it and not going any further forward. Jumping backwards avoiding her swing I quickly pulled my bow out firing powerful arrows at her whilst she stopped moving, using a lot of energy to hold the barrier to withstand the power of the bows. Noticing Jewels behind Maggie she quickly breathed fire on the unsuspecting girl. A second force field quickly was formed but not before a bit of fire got in burning her skin. In a burst of energy she sent me and Jewels into the air flying backwards, landing next to the general I quickly fire another arrow hitting her in the arm causing her to scream, sending a bolt of energy at me I again went flying backwards landing in a lake. Rage, fury go get Maggie I shouted walking out the water whilst fury bent down for me to get on. Climbing onto his back we flew back to Maggie who now had all 5 of my Shaden dragons around her, breathing fire on her body. Her force field holding the flames back but her energy was weak. Propelling her force field outwards she set the fire back towards us, startling us giving her a chance to get some energy back. Watching the fire race towards me I hide behind furys back, and the second the fire passed I drew and arrow firing it at Maggie. It was a race against time now, my arrow was hurtling towards her and seeing it coming Maggie quickly put up her force field, but she was too slow the force field cut my arrow in half blocking the lower half but the top half had got in and went straight into her heart. Falling to the ground, I quickly ran up to her watching her gasp for breathe as her heat slowed down its pumping Why Maggie I asked looking down at her Your helping my brother, Drov is evil and your powering him. Why do you think he wants more power from you, hes taming the undefeatable monsters of the lesser plane with your power. If I didnt stop him he will bring them here and take over the world she said quickly, he breathing going shallow and fast. Closing her eyes, Maggie gave out one last deep breath before going. Standing up I looked out to the 3 men pulling arrows from their body after watching my fight. You will hear from me soon I said climbing onto Rage flying off up into the mountains, My King, we have received word from Onyx the captain said holding the seal envelope handing it to the king. Dear Kings, I am writing to inform you all of the new laws and rules. Firstly the minimum age of intercourse is now 16, and anybody who breaks that law is to be arrested for rape and castrated. This includes soldiers, farmers or even kings; no one is exempt from the law. Secondly, there are to be no more wars, if you need more resources trade with the other land do not invade, for I know each land has something the others do not, be it mines or knowledge. Thirdly, although you are in control of your own kingdoms, I am in control of you and we will be holding meetings once a year to discuss how to better further our lands. This letter has been sent to all 4 kings, and if either one of you goes against this then you will find me and my dragons knocking down your door... Onyx the king read out with Pearl stood next to him chuckling as he read it out. and you three wanted her dead Pearl joked seeing their error have peace in their lands for the first time in centuries. |
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