Prologue

View Online

Finally! The semester is over, and the Smash Tournament Event, is Today! Sure I had some time playing Smash Ultimate and practicing using my main fighter, Ridley, but studies must come first. I did a pretty good job in the past two semesters, all were A's, B's, and some were C's. The reason why I get C's is because essays are my weakness, and I hate them, but alas, it is a requirement. Even so, I do have a goal in mind once I get my degree, but there are so many things that I could do, and many people have gone and set their careers to change the world or something. I ever wondered what I would do to change the world. But for now, I don't have to worry about some essays anymore or other crap, I got a tournament to beat, then I can think about what career I choose after.

*Knock knock knock*

"Yeah!?" I shouted, to whom was knocking at my door.

"Hey man!" A familiar voice answered, and opens the door, "You ready for the event?"

"Yeah, Tom. I'm just practicing using online before the event." I replied back to Tom, who happens to be my roommate.

"You know, you have put quite some time playing and studying throughout the semester. Kinda feels like you become a ghost." Said Tom, leaning against the door, as I quickly exit the loading screen just to talk to my roommate slash friend.

"Oh ha ha. I feel soooo lonely. If it weren't for you punks not sucking while I was waiting and having some time to chat with you guys, I would've kicked all of your asses."

"Aw come on, I was joking. But, I am not entirely wrong, I was thinking that maybe you need to get some fresh air before the tournament."

"Gee. Thanks for worrying, dad." I said, playfully.

"No really! I thought you would just go out and maybe run into a cute girl or somethin'. Or a hot one. Hey! Maybe both!" Said Tom, trying to feel me up.

"I... I don't know." I said, hesitantly.

"Alright. Keep hanging out with us dudes and you might fall over one." Tom said, while giving a playful grin.

"Uggh! HELL NO! Okay look, me finding a girl is not a bad plan, but, I just don't know how to one. You know? I might say something weird or creepy."

"*sigh* Okay I get it." Tom was about to say something else but I continued.

"Although, maybe having a girl in my life sounds pretty nice, no?" I said, until Tom gave a questioning look.

"Dude. You want to get married by one? You bore me." Knowing what he meant I said back to him.

"Leave my life choice alone, you tramp!"

"... ouch."

We stared at each other for a few seconds until we both start laughing over our little fun.

"Hey, we have about two hours before the tournament starts, you want to get ready now?" Asked Tom.

"Yeah. Let me shower first then we can go."

"Dude, no need to shower. Let's just go!"

"Remember the last time we went to a community tournament? The whole place stank like hobos." As I said that, Tom looked back at their recent visit and cringed.

"You know what? Yeah, that's a good Idea. I should do the same." he said as he walked into his room and uses his own shower.

"Okay then." I said, as I roll my eyes in amusement.

15 Minutes Later

After a quick bath, we start heading to the café, where they hold the event. At our arrival, there are a lot of people waiting for entry, Students and non-students gather at the entrance. We waited about eight more minutes, more people came, and finally the door opens revealing one of the crew members that hosts the event with a megaphone in hand.

"Alright, the Smash Tournament is now open!" Announced the crew guy, "I want everyone to form two lines! One for competitive play," he point his arm on his left, "And one for spectators." then on his right. Now that everyone is divided up, the crew guy spoke again, "Now that we are split, competitors will enter first and submit their names in the game."

Looking back on how many competitors, there were at least forty of us, including Tom and I. In my opinion, it is a fair number since it is at a school, but feeling the butterflies in my stomach is starting to come back to me. So many people, so many to face against. Will I ever get a chance?

"Hey," a hand rested on my shoulder, "we are just here to have fun. And give everything you've got." said Tom, giving a smile and support like a good friend.

"Yeah," shaking off my doubts, I smiled back, "we got this."

"Next!" said a crew member who is a girl, "Alright, type your name here and you will be set."

"Good luck, man!" said Tom, as he patted my back.

"You too."

This is it, time to put my skills to the test, may the best smasher win!

Name Entry: T_G_X

*Several Hours Later*

"T_G_X is now struggling, great pressure by $M!tə!" shout out the commentators, commenting on the heated battle between me and my opponent, it is the final, tied in score, one stock each, and I am loads on pressure, but I won't let that distract me as I move my character coordinated, "This is the moment everyone, can a low-tier character beat one of the best top tiers!? T_G_X's Ridley has plowed his way to the finals and face $M!tə's Wolf, this is torture for me to find out who will win!"

Knowing how a Wolf user play, I played the waiting game. Waiting and shielding every time he pulls out his annoying blaster, until I get a good distance using a well placed down-tilt as he launches up a bit, quickly combo to a forward-air and decide to fake him out by advancing and shielding. He fell for the bait as Wolf used a neutral-air to counter, and knowing quick his land lad is, I went for a rapid jab. Getting enough hits, Wolf is at a danger percentage, and so was I. Both of us launching and countering back and fourth while time is running out. Until, I was hit hard by Wolf's side-tilt, nearly knocking me off the screen, as I try to grab the ledge with caution. Seeing that he will edge guard me with a down-smash, I decided a different approach, knowing I have two aerial jumps left, I faced away from the platform I used one jump, and seeing that I was keeping my distance, I used my last jump until I got the angle right.

And at that moment,

just at I recovered at least low enough before I grabbed the ledge, Wolf used his down smash,

right before I was close to grab the ledge, Wolf unleashed his attack, he missed.

I grabbed the ledge safely, but he is persistent to keep down smashing, but what he forgot about Ridley is his up-air.

Landing the sweet spot, the game freeze frame the attack, landing a fatal blow, and launching him up skyward hoping KO instantly. I also made sure I grabbed the ledge so I don't kill myself, but as I did so, I only to see Wolf's pained face on the screen,

At this moment, I closed my eyes, I was not sure of how far I could reach to the finals. All were tough, but I still stand, and others stand as I did. But, there can only be one winner.

GAME!

The crowd went into an uproar and cheered, I looked up to see what happened as I missed what the conclusion was as the game loaded in agonizing seconds. As the screen split, the logo of Metroid as well as my character as the victor of the game.

"I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!! I CANNOT BELIEVE IT!! T_G_X HAS DEFEATED $M!TƏ!! RIDLEY HAS TAKEN WOLF'S TIER! THERE IS A GOD! THE CUNNING GOD OF DEATH, HAS WON THIS INSANE TOURNAMENT!!" Screamed the announcer, acting all hyped and rowdy.

To shocked by my win, Tom surprised me with a bro hug from behind, snapping me off from my trans.

"YOU DID IT MAN! YOU WON!" he shouted, while the whole crowd chant my game name.

"T_G_X! T_G_X! T_G_X! T_G_X!"

When I was about to turn and give a victory pose, I forgot to shake my opponent's hand, but he was not there. Only an empty seat, and a broken GameCube controller on the floor. I guess, he took his loss too hard. Salty. Even so, I really want to shake his hand for how good he was. Right now I walked up to the edge of the stage raised my arms and made a battle cry victory.

"WOOOOOOOOOOO!!!"

*Two Hours Later*

Me and Tom made our way back to the dorm, we are both tired out of how much fun we had after hanging out with some other people who were at the event. We just chat, and had a few drinks, which is not allowed in campus grounds, but they were careful. But, as I say the time, I felt the need to go home and rest, but my friend happened to have five more shots and he's already drunk, so it is a good excuse to go back to our dorms while helping Tom walk.

"Ya know~," slurred Tom, "youuu may not notice... but yooo are da bessst smmeshhrrr palieee~"

"Heh. I try to be." I answered back, just as we just arrived at our dorm. Unlocking the door, there is an odd smell that just blows me gag. "Ugh! What is that? It smells like gas, but earthy."

"Smell!? I don shhhhtink. It might be your fat ass tooting!" said Tom, still drunk to the brim, knowing he can't smell while stoned.

"Okay okay. Jut let me put you on your bed so I can find out what the hell that smell is." While I walked to Tom's room and helped laid him on his bed, I close the door so no more noise will disturb his drunken sleep.

I began to search where that odor came from, I searched around the kitchen, but there was nothing I found. No stove was on, no gas leaks, this is starting to give me scary vibes. I need to make a call to the landowner and complain about the odor, but remember I left my phone in my room so I won't have a chance losing it, knowing how crazy it went today.

"I also gotta tell my folks what happened today. I bet they'll be thrilled."

As I made my way to my room, the odor starts to thicken, wondering why there is a gas leakage in my room. Opening the door, I felt a tug on the knob and see what appears to be a bucket on the chair and a propane tank next to it, as I realized what this is, I was too late to react as a match lit, a bucket of thermite ignited, and the gas filled room burst brightly all over with such kinetic force that I can't even describe just blew me away across the room.

The explosion continued as the flame stretched the entire dorm. Jake laid on the ground, motionless, blinded, and pain. Agonizing pain. The combined explosion of both gas and thermite is burning his skin, and apparently pierced his body. Burning within. His roommate, fortunately survived but burned, rushed to his friend's and begged for his survival. Quickly, he used his cell phone to call for help, Jake can only see blur of his friend, which is the only thing he knows.

It hurts... It hurts too fucking much...

My eyes... they hurt... I can't see...

My legs... it's painful... I want it to stop...

My arms... why... why can't I feel my right?...

My body... I can't... I CAN'T TAKE IT! IT BURNS! IT BURNS TOO MUCH! MAKE IT STOP!

"You poor soul," a voice echoed, which startled Jake, "do not be alarmed, I am here to only observe these humans for quite some time, until I found you." it sounded motherly, and ancient. Until he sees a soft glow in his vision, "You had your goals set in this world, a family you held on to even when you are far away, and you have a good heart, even in dire situations." Jake begins to shed tears as the mysterious voice described what life he had, all taken way while he dies, "But, I see that others have foolishly release their anger among the good. You don't deserve this kind of fate. As of right now, you don't have not much time, would you like a request from me to hunt this arsonist?" she asks, Jake. Now knows he will die, and offered to find the one who did this to him, and his friend.

Please do. But don't kill him or her. A trial will be enough.

"Oh? And may I ask why?"

I'm not a killer, just someone who doesn't hate anyone.

"... Excellent. As for making a peaceful request, I will be giving you a gift of new life." the voice said as the light shines brighter, bright enough to blind his blinded eyes. His entire body tingles, as the burns and pain have all faded away in a cool and warmth feeling. No longer he feels burns inside his body and no pain on his arms and legs. Eyes start to close as he feels his passing, tears have also shed more, remembering how his life was. It was not entirely perfect but he loved it every moment. He was happy.

"... I'm... sorry... everyone... love you... all..." Jake said his last words as he closes his eyes, one last time.

"I'll be seeing you soon, my pet." the voice said while giving a hearty giggle.

... pet?

Chapter 1: Reborn

View Online

Edited by Hotel_Chicken

Darkness, was all I could see, a pitch black void that could have been anything from a black wall to an eternal and endless void. Aside from the intense blackness filling or blocking my vision, I also felt a strange heat, something warm and cozy, like a heated blanket on a cold winter day. However, unlike the soft embrace of a warm blanket, comfort didn’t come with the warmth that enveloped my body. Instead I felt a weird stiffness, as if… my body was made of stone?

I began to stir, not wondering why I was asleep, but rather why I was still alive. Feeling my body, I no longer felt any pain from the incident I had to experience, and I felt… well, different doesn’t even begin to describe the alien and foreign feelings in and on my body. I remembered there was a voice that spoke to me while I was on the verge of death, saying something about giving me 'new life'. My thoughts on those mysterious words were quickly swept away as I felt something move at the base of my spine and shifting slightly, causing me to chase away the last bits of sleep as I began to wake up.

Opening my eyes, the first thing I saw was a somewhat dark ceiling. It wasn’t as dark as the black void I was staring into earlier, but the lack of light in my new surroundings didn’t help me see anything any better. Looking around more, I saw a far light off in the distance, leading to the mouth of a tunnel. Along the pathway to the mouth of the tunnel were several small pools of lava that slowly bubbled like warm pudding.

H-how the hell did I get in a cave? I asked myself as I continued to stare at the path leading to the exit. I expected a few things, a hospital, white fluffy clouds with angels, the interior of an ambulance, maybe even the inside of my bedroom back home, but a cave was definitely not on that list.

My eyes slowly began to adjust to the darkness of my surrounds, revealing an orange hue to the stalactites that hung precariously over my head. As I stared at the stalactites, I noted an orange liquid slowly drip from one of them and land right next to my head. As the glowing orange liquid hit the ground I hear the unmistakable hiss of something being burned away.

Realizing that my head was right next to a slowly growing puddle of lava I jolted upright and banged my head against a low hanging stalactite, causing it to surprisingly brea off of the ceiling with ease. As I began to rub my head to alleviate the pain I stopped and slowly tapped my fingers on my head.

Tap. There was my forefinger.

Tap. There was my middle finger.

Tap. There was… My pinky finger?

Slowly bringing my hand into my vision I expected to see the mangled flesh of my hand with a missing ring finger and exposed bone. But instead I saw a purple leathery hand that had four terrifyingly long sharp claws. I checked my other hand and as well and was greeted to a mirrored version of my right… Claw? It had four skeletal like appendages with three of them acting as fingers while the fourth one acted more like a thumb. My new alien appendages ended in in bone like talons that grew ever so slightly as I gave my hands an experimental flex.

"That’s… That’s new." I said, and soon noticed what my voice sounded like, "Hello hello. Test test." I said aloud. My sounded deep and had a small growl to it, as if I was always angry. "Is that really my voice?"

Not wanting to stay in this cave any longer, I tried to stand up but was met with sharp bump on my head. I rubbed my head to dull the pain, but again I felt something odd. I didn’t notice it the first time as I was too focused on my hands, but I soon noticed that my head was different as well. My head, once smooth and covered in hair, felt rough and had a short cone shape, almost the size of an extra large ice cream cone. Having enough, I immediately began to crawl out of the dark and damp cave to find something I could look at myself with.

Finally out, the sun blinded my vision for a second, causing my eyes to squint as I began to adjust to the new light. once my vision finally cleared I was completely shocked and baffled by the view in front of me. The first thing I noticed was that the area around me was like a mountain slope and in the distance I could see the ocean. Turning my gaze from the ocean I was surprised to see something purple take up a good portion of my lower field of vision. Grabbing the new object in front of me I was terrified to find out that it was part of my face.

Looking around with even more determination to find a mirror or some type of reflective surface. My attention was almost immediately grabbed by a slow flowing river flowing down the mountain on my left that led into an area filled with large naturally formed hot springs. If I wasn’t freaking out at the moment I may have considered the idea of taking a nice relaxing dip to clear my head, but I had other plans as I rushed over to the warm and steaming water.

As I stumbled closer to the water, I noticed that my balance was terribly off, as if I was missing a few toes. Looking down, I noticed that both my feet formed a 'Y' shaped, the odd appendages reminded me of something, but I couldn’t focus on that as I made my way to the water. Picking up my pace, I stumbled a bit and used my arms to stop my fall. As I fell down I noticed that my chest didn’t hit the ground, but rather stayed arched as I supported myself with my arms and legs like a cat. Like so many other things at that moment I didn’t have time to question it as I used my new posture to walk over to the water with a fast trot. As I reached the water I gazed into the steamy liquid as I waited for it to clear and show me my face.

Once it finally cleared, the first thing I saw was a recognizable creature that I knew all too well. I probably would have been terrified of the monster that seemingly lurked under the water if it wasn’t looking back at me with a dumbfounded and terrified expression. As I slowly opened and closed my mouth, the monster below mimicked my actions, telling me that this wasn’t just a video game monster… That was me.

Amber eyes stared into my own with a look of abject horror and dread as I slowly placed my hand my mouth… Or was it a beak now? Regardless of what it was called I gave it a tug, hoping to pry off a rubber mask and reveal my face underneath. But it didn’t budge, it was real. All too real.

I got a better look of my new body as I looked behind me, my neck bending at an angle it never could before. My body was a deep purple color that clung to the thin muscles and bones underneath like an airtight suit. Upon my bony body laid two large purple leathered wings that spread out like a second pair of arms. As my gaze shifted lower I noticed a chain like appendage at the base of my spine, comprised of the same purple leather color and ending with a silver spear like barb at the end of it.

"... no way. No way. No fucking way!” Taking a step back, taking in the fact that I was now one of the most deadliest beings known to nerds. "I... I'm Ridley? I became, Ridley!?" As I am about to freak out, I thought of something that would best fit to my reaction and test one the abilities my new foreign body should have possessed.

"Welp.... here goes..."

*Deep breath*

*Elsewhere*

Perched at the tip of a tall cliff, a cyan dragoness, with a light-blue underbelly, and navy blue spines that lined behind her head along with short horns on both sides, observed the land up high with her ruby colored eyes, seeing anything that might catch her interest.

Her name was, Ember, daughter of the fearsome Dragon lord, toughest dragoness in the pack, and overall most badass dragon…. And she was bored.

So bored that she contemplated jumping off her perch and land head first into the ground so impatience could make way for agony. At least agonizing pain would give her something to do, although it would probably make her father put even more restrictions on her freedom. For almost her entire life, Ember never got to go anywhere due to her father's wishes. She was only allowed to be at a maximum, five miles away from her father’s nest, restricting her freedom and confining her to a three mile radius. Despite being allowed to be five miles away from the nest, dragons were not the best at measuring things with a glance, so there were days where her guards would think one mile was ten and five miles was three, her current guard was one of the dumber ones, believing a mile was a yard.

Despite her limited freedom she kept her body and mind sharp by occasionally fighting with other dragons. However, even that little freedom would end quickly whenever the ground would rumble, announcing the arrival of her mountain sized father.

"Ugh! I can't take it anymore!” Ember yelled to the sky. “I’m tired of being bored out of my mind! Is there anything cool I could do here?!”

*Distant Roar*

Ember stood up immediately and looked at the direction where the loud roar came from. It wasn’t like any dragon roar she had ever heard before. She heard most dragon roars from big to small, old to young, and angry to the rarely sad, but unlike those, this particular dragon roar was different.

"From what I can tell, that roar might have come from all the way to the southern ocean side," Her brow raised with a great interest. "That's... impressive."

She desperately wanted to go and see who or what caused the mysterious roar, but the limits that her father placed on her made that possibility a slim chance in Tartarus. But, what if he doesn't have to know? She thought as she flew off the cliff with her light-indigo wings, to make a quick visit to her father's den. After sneaking in as quietly as possible, she saw her father, an enormous dragon, sleeping soundly in his nest with many of his guards distracted as all of their willpower and attention was focused on not eating the king’s horde. Burning Ledge was never the same after that fateful incident.

*ZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzz*

The cave rumbled as his loud snores shook the earth beneath his body, shaking the cave with such a force that several stalactites broke off of the ceiling and crashing into the ground, causing the guards in her father’s cave to fly and catch them falling derby to protect her father’s horde. Now that Ember confirmed that her father was asleep she slipped by the guards and flew off towards the direction of the roar.

“Let's hope it will be less boring than just sitting and flying all day."

*Meanwhile*

WOW THAT WAS LOUD!

I thought as I tried to regain my hearing. After releasing a mighty roar that would make Godzilla blush I grabbed the sides of my head where I thought my ears were to alleviate the pain. My entire body vibrated furiously as if I was standing next to a body size stereo with the bass up to max. It was a surprisingly fun feeling, like lying on top of a washing machine.

As my body finally stopped shaking from the roar I started shaking in excitement as I looked at my new body. I was Ridley, one of the most deadliest beings in the Metroid series, and it's me!

"Wow. I'm Ridley." I said as admired more of my new body.

I looked at my large dragon like wings, giving them an experimental stretch as I spread them out. My new wigs had pink membranes with, for some reason, octagon shapes as my netting. The tips of my wings had two white hooks on the edge, similar to the claws on my fingers.

"I wonder how I can use these." I tried testing out my new limbs, it was an odd sensation to move them, they felt strangely like an extra set of arms, it was definitely weird to have extra limbs. Speaking of...

"And then there’s my tail..." I picked up my rope like tail which was impressively strong, and examined the sharp tip at the end of my tail, it had the shape of a large spear and has a white sheen to it. "Looks pretty sharp. I wonder if I can move it." Testing it out, its movement was strange, yet shaky since I never had a tail before. It was similar to how my neck would move, moving with the spear tip instead of moving the spear. After a few minutes of practice, I started to get the hang of it and tried to move my tail in patterns like wave, spiral, and metronome. "This is too cool." I said as move my tail more, until...

*Grumble grumble*

I look down at my scaly stomach, and I realized that since I was living in the body of a so called space dragon, I needed to find a way to get food. I wasn't too sure of the area I was in, but where there was water there was life, meaning I could probably find some animals or fruit to eat. I could also use the cave as a temporary home until I came up with a plan for… Something. I couldn’t really go back to MY home as a space monster, so I would need to find a new home.

"HEY YOU!"

I froze, hearing a voice was something that I never expected on the first day of being a space dragon. Looking around to find out who called me out, I was greeted by the empty space I saw when I first left the cave.

"Up here moron!"

I complied to the person’s demands, only to find out it wasn’t a person at all. Looking up I saw, what I can't believe, was a flying short blue dragon. A REAL DRAGON! I just stood there in amazement, seeing a fictional creature that was described as a myth flying right in front of me. She then suddenly swooped down, landed elegantly, and started to walk towards me. Looking at the strange creature closely, it appeared to have a feminine figure, which made sense as I heard her voice calling me.

"Hellooooo!?" She said, as she tried to get my attention by waving a claw in front of my face. I shook off my gaze and looked down at her, I noticed she had cyan scaled skin, two large bright red eyes, and stood up to my chest.

"S-sorry. I... I-It's just that... I never seen a dragon before." I said, as this blue dragon gave me a questionable look.

"Never seen one? Have you ever looked at yourself? Do you even know where you are?" She asked inquisitively as she glared up at me. Slightly shrinking under her gaze, I attempted to come up with a decent lie to tell her. Since Ridley was basically a dragon from outer space I could just say I was a normal dragon like her.

"Umm... well. There wasn't any other dragons where I come from, that's why. Uh… As for where I am, I don't know actually. I just... uhh... moved here? Yeah." I told her. She looked at me with keen eyes that caused me to flinch, thinking she saw right through me, but then she relaxed her stern stare which in turn made me feel at ease.

"Hmm. Well, I have never seen a dragon like you before, so it makes sense. And as for what this place is, you are in the Dragonlands. Uhh.... welcome. I guess." She said in a somewhat sheepish manner. Judging by her stance, she looked like she didn't talk much. Dragonlands, huh? Pretty sure this place is full of them.

"Th-thanks." I answered. Neither of us spoke for a while after that, leading into an awkward silence until bluey decided to break the ice.

"So. I heard a roar from the distance, and it was something wanted to check out. Was it you?" she asked.

"Uhh... Yeah. That was me."

"Really? I gotta say, that is one impressive roar. Judging on your size and how far I heard, it might have been five kilometers." Blue told me with an impressed tone as she crossed her arms.

"That far!? Holy shit! I might have a voice of a giant or something." I said excitedly.

"Yeah. You could say that. It kinda surprised me of how you manage that roar with how boney your body is.” Blue said as she was commenting about my body. You know what? I'm gonna stop calling her that and just ask.

"Yeah... I had a... shortage of food on my way here. That's why! Anyway, I don't think I got your name."

"... Ember. Yours?" I was about to answer, but hesitated.

Should I tell her my name? ... Maybe not. Jake died. So I guess I'll just go with it...

"It's... Ridley."

"Ridley? Kinda of an odd name for you." yeah, kinda figured. "Well whatever, I was on my way here to just see who made that roar. But I guess that solves my question. So, I'll just-"

*Grumble Grumble*

Just as Ember was about to leave, she heard my stomach growl. I felt a bit embarrassed but realized that since Ember was there she could point me to a nearby food source or something.

"Uhh... Sorry. I haven't had anything to eat since I got here. Do you know where I can find some grub?" I asked.

"Seriously? Have you at least packed a few gems on your way here?" she asked.

"... Gems?" I asked, causing Ember to give me a disbelieving look.

"Wait, don't tell me. Have you ever eaten gems before?"

"... No. Why would I? Won't they destroy your teeth the moment you try to crunch on them?"

"Wha- why... BECAUSE YOUR A DRAGON! DRAGONS EAT GEMS!" Ember shouted.

"Do they? Uhhh…. Dragons where I’m from eat meat?” I tried to say, creating a lie in hopes of covering up my blissful ignorance of how dragons actually act.

"Ugh! You are the weirdest dragon I have ever met! I mean look at you! Might as well die here in starvation."

"Oh come on! Give me a break! Isn't there like a 'dragon code' where you help your kind and stuff like that?" I said, using my new fingers to make air quotes as I talked about the dragon code.

"Dragon code? Are you an idiot? Dragons don't do helping. And what you should be doing, is kicking me out of your territory, beat me up into a pulp, or eat me if you are so desperate!"

"Eat you!?” I asked in disgust. “I’m not a fucking cannibal! I don't plan on hurting you just because you're within my spot, and again. NOT. FROM. HERE!" I pointed out, hoping me being from somewhere else could both explain my weirdness and diffuse the situation.

"Well too bad! There is no point of you living here with all these rocks around, a useless river, and a worthless hot spring that just screams pathetic! Face it, your dead where you stand. You’re pathetic.“ She snarked, breaking the final straw on the camel's back. Out of instinct I thrashed my tail violently and shattered the rocks behind me.

"Fine! Don't help me! I'll just find other ways to get food! You can leave without the necessary beat up! Don't let a bird shit on you on your way out!" I turned away from her and started to head to the river, where I could hopefully find a fish or two.

"Your welcome!" She called back.

"What!?" I turned and instinctively snarled at her. I looked at her as she pointed a claw at the shattered rock, and to my surprise, there are tons, and I mean TONS, of different colored gems. Coming closer, they all shined like chandeliers and all too bright to look at.

"I thought getting you all pissy will help you destroy this rock, but I guess seeing how strong your tail is, you won't have any problems finding natural gems around this place." She said, calmly.

"So... all this argument was to get me angry enough to break this rock?" I asked dumbly.

"Well, yeah. How are you going to ever going to smash these rocks with just raw strength?” She explained. "Judging how you are so boney and hardly any muscle, you have no chance of breaking the same rock you just shattered." I had a thought in mind where I can prove her theory wrong just by going to break another rock.

"Really?" I muttered. "Let me try something." I said as I walk to another rock similar to the one I smashed. The new rock was a lot larger than the one I previously shattered, it was nearly twice my height and three times my width. I walked up to it and started observing it by giving it a few experimental taps on its surface.

"Are you sure you want to smash that? By the looks of it, there is no way that a scrawny dragon like you is able to brea-" Ignoring Ember, I took a quick breath, tightened my right claw, pulled back my arm, and thrust hard as I gave a solid punch.

*BOOM!*

Looking at my result, the rock was shattered and numerous huge chunks of multicolored rock gems decorated the ground beneath us. I was really impressed with how much strength I now had, I could seriously do damage!

"HA! Whaddya know! I shattered it with my fist! Though it hurt a little, but HOLY SHIT!" I shouted with glee.

"... woah. Now THAT, was impressive! Rocks that holds gems are pretty hard to break, but you just destroyed one that twice your size!" Ember told me excitedly, completely awed with my performance. “I mean... not bad for a scrawny dragon." She fin wished, suddenly reverting back to her snarky attitude.

"So..." I picked up one of the shattered pieces and looked at it. “I can you really eat these?" I asked, as Ember came closer and took the gem I was holding and tossed it in her mouth.

"*crunch crunch* See? Nothing to worry about. Just try it." She reassured me. Seeing her eat the gem like candy gave me doubts on how this will be my new diet. These dragons are strange.

I picked up a light blue gem, which I'm assuming was aquamarine, and gave a shrug. "... Bottoms up." Popping the gem in my mouth, I started munching it. I felt no resistance and no pain as I crunched the gem, it felt similar to chewing on brittle ice. Then it happened, a sudden burst of flavor exploded in my mouth, the gem tasted like Blueberry and lemonade. I took another gem, a ruby to be specific, and ate it with gusto, the taste of watermelon, strawberry, and apple exploding in my mouth. "Wow! I never knew dragons could eat these. They are amazing!" I said while stuffing more gems in my mouth.

"Glad you liked it." Ember told me as shy gave my a sly know-it-all smirk.

"Oh! Hang on." I picked up a rather large chunk if gems (gem chunk? Rock Gem? Meh.), almost the size of my leg, and handed over to Ember. "Here. Thanks for helping me, to settle in around here." For some reason, my offer of generosity caused her to recoil as she took several steps back.

“What?... N-No! Dragons don't share their gems or treasures! Plus, you should start your own horde so you don't have to worry about starving." She said as she turned her back to me. She had a decent point, since I was sort of a dragon, I should save up some gems. But that didn’t mean I was just going to let her leave without giving her a proper thanks.

"Come on. Just take it, and besides, I'm pretty sure I can find more gems around here. Also, if I want to eat something else other than gems, I'll manage." I said, while inching the gem chunk closer to her. "Just take it." After what felt like twenty seconds, she finally decided to take it, albeit very reluctantly.

"... Ugh! Fine!" She said as she lifted up the large chunk which was almost the size of her whole body. "I'm taking this because I feel like it." Even though she has a snobby attitude, she is actually a nice dragon.

"Okay. Whatever you say-"

"EEEEEEMMMMBEEEEEERRRRRR!!!!!"

Suddenly, a loud thunderous voice spoke as the whole place trembles, “What The Fucking Hell Was.That!” I shouted.

"*sigh* That was my dad."

"Your WHAT!? HOW FUCKING BIG IS YOU DAD ANYWAY!?" I asked.

"You know what? You have the most creative tongue in the Dragonlands. I suggest you quit it!" she said, clearly annoyed.

"Well excuuuuuse me, princess, for saying weird shit!"

"Well whatever." She said, rolling her eyes, "Look, I gotta get going, or else I'm gonna get it." She stopped for a second before she turned around and gave me a small smile " Well… See ya." And just like that she took off flying.

"Yeah. See ya."

I watched as the blue dragon flew towards deep in the Dragonlands. It wasn't as much of a warm welcome she gave me, but that is just enough for someone who tries to be civil to others, even for someone who wants to change things. I guess she was really trying to be nice and friendly, just she doesn't know how to yet. I smiled for that thought.

"I hope I get to see her again. Now to find me some gems and punch some rocks.”

*Elsewhere*

The Dragonlands, home of the dragons(obviously), land of rock and lava. A world to behold and awed as dragons roam the skies and land, and mostly showing off their strength over turf and territory. All have proven their might, but all can't be guided by their own. Their ruler, King Torch, a Goliath among dragons, is the main patriarch of their kind, showing and leading their ways of being a dragon.

King Torch was waiting patiently outside his nest, which was the size of a large crater, when he called out a name that he keen all too well, the name of his only daughter. “EMBER!”

Ember is her name and she is the precious daughter of Torch. Hearing small flaps, he looked at the direction where it came from, and to no surprise, he saw his daughter making her way to him. She steadily flew close to her father's face and held a large chunk of rock gem in her left arm.

"WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?" Demanded Torch, waiting for his daughter to answer.

"... Out." She hesitantly replied.

"WHAT?!? I GAVE YOU STRICT ORDERS TO NEVER LEAVE WITHIN OUR TERRITORY! YOU HAVE DISOBEYED ME ONCE AGAIN, EMBER!" The mighty king exclaimed.

"Well... all I did was travel just travel to the oceanside, southwest from here! Nothing out there, really. Except for that one dragon-" Ember tried to explain, but she was quickly interrupted by her father as his booming voice left little room for argument.

"THIS IS WHAT I MEAN, EMBER! YOU COULD HAVE BEEN EATEN OR SLAYED BY ANOTHER DRAGON! YOU ARE INSIGNIFICANT WHEN YOU ARE OUT THERE ALONE."

"Well I can prove that I can take care of myself!" She shouted back.

"NO! I'VE HAD ENOUGH! AS YOUR FATHER AND DRAGON LORD, I FORBID YOU TO LEAVE YOUR DEN UNTIL I AM NO LONGER DRAGON LORD!"

"WHAT!? You can't let me stay here forever!"

"OH PLEASE. NOT FOREVER, JUST ONE WEEK."

"... What? What do you-"

"I'M FINISHED, DAUGHTER.” The King explained. “IT IS TIME FOR ME TO STEP DOWN AS DRAGON LORD."

"So then that means..."

"DRAGONS ACROSS THE WORLD WILL NOW COME AND MIGRATE HERE. THEREFORE, ALL WILL BE SUMMONED TO PARTICIPATE THE GAUNTLET OF FIRE. THEY MUST RETRIEVE THE BLOODSTONE SCEPTER AND ONE OF THEM WILL BE CROWNED DRAGON LORD."

Ember paused for a moment, and thought about the situation. Since her father's rule was coming to an end and everydragon would be participating, this would be her only chance. She had the opportunity to rule over the dragons and prove to her father that she wasn’t soft like those little Ponies in Equestria. But knowing her father, he for sure would not allow her to enter. She had to keep this plan to herself, or she would never have the chance again.

"I see. May go to my nest now?"

"... YOU MAY." Ember made her way, but was stopped by her father's claw, "AS PUNISHMENT, OFFER THAT ROCK IN YOUR CLAWS." Said Torch as he opened his jaws. Ember looked down at the rock in her arms, she thought about the dragon who was strange to her, and the one who gave it to her as a gift.

"*sigh* Here..." She said as she tossed it inside her father’s jaws.

"HMM... IT HAS BEEN SO LONG THAT I HAVE EATEN GEMS THAT ARE FROM THE OCEANSIDE. THAT DRAGON YOU MENTIONED, HAS IT CAUSED YOU ANY TROUBLE?"

"... no."

"MUST HAVE BEEN A WEAK ONE. YOU MAY GO."

Ember, finally flies to her nest, and start thinking about what her father said. Since the Gauntlet of Fire was a week away, she thought about the odds on getting the Bloodstone Scepter. Knowing her father, he would be the one to set an obstacle and plans to make it difficult and cunning. Yes, it would be dangerous, but this wouldn't stop her from getting what she wanted. But, the only thing that was in her way were the other dragons. They all seek the power of dragon lord, and she knew what could lead to if one of them gets the scepter. She had to make a plan and figure out a way to get the scepter before anydragon else got it, especially the strange purple one. In her honest opinion, he looked terrifying despite his near boney appearance, he looked really powerful, and deadly too.

"Wait... WHY AM I THINKING ABOUT THIS!?" shouted Ember, "Ugh. Great. Now there are other things to worry about. I hope he doesn't get the scepter, who knows what would happen." Ember worried even more, but something in her head reminded her what that dragon said.

'Not from around here.'

"Wait... WHAT DOES HAPPEN IF HE GETS THE SCEPTER!?"

And yes, her worries built up even more, causing her to nearly forgetting her main objective.

*ACHOO!*

Huh. I usually get this if someone is talking about me... “NAH!”

Chapter 2: Flying High Past Cloud 9

View Online

Edited by Hotel_Chicken

Something strange happened while I slept in my new home. Home… heh, I can’t tell if it’s funny or sad as I was calling a cave home. Guess it’s somewhat better than living on the streets back on Earth.

I was finishing with the final details of my cave from sunrise to sunset, scratching some spots around my area to mark my territory and destroying some rocks to save up more gems. While I was working my eyes would constantly wander to the ocean that lay just a few miles away from me. Near the edge of my mountain was a steep cliff’s edge that lead down to a direct drop into the water below. There wasn’t much in that area between my mountain and the edge except for a few trees and random boulders that had rolled off of the mountain and stopped there.

I played with the idea of making it something nice, but I wasn’t a gardener and there was no way in hell I’d sully the name of Ridley by making him into one. Since I finished working on the exterior of my cave and had no real plans for the small area near the edge of the cliff I decided to turn in for the night inside my cave.

As I walked in, I saw the same orange glow that I saw when I first woke up, except now it was much livelier. The orange flaming liquid lit up the cave like a nicely lit apartment with a nice corner cloaked in darkness that I could use to rest my eyes. The lighting was nice but it’d definitely make sleeping a chore.

As I tiredly made my way to the dark corner of the cave I accidently stepped in a small pool of lava that was barely half a foot long and wide. When my toe dipped into the lava I freaked out and pulled it out immediately. When I looked at my toe however it was completely unharmed. I had planned to test out how durable Ridley’s skin was but this was more than I expected of the space pirate.

I leaned down to the small puddle of lava and dipped a pinkie finger in to experiment, starting with my white talon and slowly lowering the rest of my finger in after it. I could feel the heat through my skin, but instead of feeling like a burning pool of death, it felt relaxing and inviting like a warm jacuzzi. Not too hot but just enough to relax my stiff muscles. I guessed that the depths of Norfair were way hotter than this.

With my experiment done and a note to use one of these pools like an actual jacuzzi I curled myself up into a ball in the corner of the cave, swallowed by the darkness and lulled to sleep by the sound of bubbling magma soothing me.

It was insanely easy to go to sleep, but for some reason it didn’t feel right. I was asleep but I also felt awake, and not like lucid dreaming where you’re aware that you’re asleep, I meant I felt both at the same time. I know it doesn't make sense, but please hear me out.

I felt like I was floating in space with no surface to bump into and I couldn't even see what was in front of me. All I could do was float in a dark and endless void, but knowing for sure that I was asleep I assumed that the whole thing was a dream. I remembered going to sleep and I remember suddenly being there. Nothing in between, not me waking up in a void or me going to a void, I was just asleep and then I was there. I attempted to manipulate it like a lucid dream, willing a flashlight or torch into existence so I could see something, but nothing appeared. I gave up trying after a few minutes and tried swimming like some cartoon in space, but why bother doing it if you can't see where to go in this dark void? I was about to give up and just float in space until I heard a faint giggle in the distance. It drove me forward, making me use the wings I had actually forgotten that I had as I tried to find the voice.

Shortly, it became louder and clearer, and it started to worry me as the giggling started to come from everywhere at once. I was terrified, like a child left alone in their house after watching a scary movie. I was scared of everything I could see, and terrified of everything I couldn’t. I tried blinking my eyes and shaking my head to force myself to wake up, but the giggling still continued. I didn't know what it was but I didn’t care, I wanted it to stop, I wanted it to leave me alone, I wanted to be anywhere else.

"Oh. I'm sorry." Said a feminine voice as all the giggling abruptly stopped, "I couldn't help but laugh when I see you trying to swim out of nothing. It looks too adorable." The voice teased.

"Hold on... that voice sounds, familiar." I said quietly as I tried to identify the speaker.

"It should. From the one who gave you your new life."

"... New… You. It’s you! Where are you, who are you?! Why did you do this?" I asked in rapid succession. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to hug her, kiss her, or kill her for what she did. On many levels I was living a fantasy that I might have killed for back home, but I was also taken from my friends and family without my consent. But she had also saved my life in the process. I felt so conflicted and I was about to ask more questions, but she didn’t give me any time as she started speaking again.

"Oh, don't worry, one day you will know more. In time~" she said playfully, and giggled again. Her damn giggles! I hate to admit it, but they terrified me. It was like a predator toying with a bunny before they went in for the kill.

As I hugged my legs close to my chest, I felt fabric touch my hands instead of scales. I glanced down at my body and could barely see my smaller sized silhouette. "Oh my. I am so sorry. I didn't mean to scare you. Here." The woman said before I heard a gentle breeze go by. I instinctively curled myself up tighter, waiting for something terrible to happen and hoping my pathetic attempts to comfort myself would protect me.

"Do not worry my pet. All I gave you is a little light. Trust me." The woman said in a much more motherly and comforting soft tone. I looked up slightly and saw a blue flame
hovering in front of me.

Wait... Did she call me a pet?

"Go ahead. Try to hold it." she said.

I looked at the flame in front of me. It hovered in the air with an unnatural glow at the base of the fire. The fires danced across in front of my face and lit up my now human skin.

Seeing as how it was the only light source in the entire void I reached out to grab it in my normal human hands. I stopped an inch before I touched the mystical flame, using its light to look at my hands, it had only been a day but it felt like a lifetime since I had my human appendages. I wanted to see more of myself, to see if my true body really did return, so I greedily held the flame in my palms. I thought it would burn me as I held it, yet there was no pain or burning sensation, instead it felt strangely cool. I grinned a little as I held the blue flame, it was like holding a living piece of pudding that constantly moved through my fingers. Suddenly, a loud bang echoed throughout the void, causing me to drop the flame as if by touching it I had awoken some demon.

"Dammit. I can't believe she found us so soon." The voice seethed in irritation. "I am sorry my pet. I guess we will meet at another time. See you soon.~"

As she said that, the blue flame next to me started to grow before it swallowed my body, changing the black void into an endless pool of white. Only one question was in my mind.

“The Fuck?”

The white light faded and darkness started to return my vision, but unlike the void this one had an orange hue to it. I lazily opened my eyes to look at my surroundings, sure enough I was still in the cave surrounded by several random pools of lava. Several drops of lava fell on my head after dripping off of a stalactite that hung precariously over my head. Soon however the stalactite broke and became a constant flow of lava that poured over me, waking me up like a cold shower in the morning. Although unlike a cold shower, I was completely content letting the lava fall on top of me.

As I left my new lava shower area I heard the sounds of the sea and wind howl throughout my cave. It continued for some time as if it were a song, it was peaceful and nearly lulled me back to sleep. But then I remembered that damned giggling.

The fear I felt instantly woke me up as I decided to study my body. I was back to being Ridley once again.

"I guess... this isn’t a dream after all." I said to myself. Another day and I am still the deadliest alien space dragon in the land.

Now that I think about it, I wondered if there were any more like me out there in the… I think they were called the Dragonlands? Geez, and I thought Snowdin from undertale was a bad name. Anyway, getting off track, I wondered if there were any more aliens like me out there. Ember looked a lot like me and apparently, we shared the same diet and spoke the same language. It felt like it was too much to be a coincidence.

I was excited at the prospect of meeting new Aliens that were never shown in the Metroid series, but a wave of fear washed all of those happy thoughts away. I had to be in the Metroid series universe, it was the only reason I could have been Ridley, the woman wouldn’t make me Ridley and then drop me off in the Sonic universe or something. So, if I was in the Metroid universe then that meant Samus Aran was out there, and she wanted me DEAD!

“FUCK!” I yelled out. “I HAVE QUALIFIED BOBA FETT HUNTING MY ASS!” I panicked before I realized something. The universe is a big place, and I was on a planet that was never shown in the games. As long as I didn’t do anything to warrant her attention I’d be fine.

But what would warrant her attention? Were there humans on this planet who knew Samus? Did they know me? Would they attack me like I was a monster from Dragon Quest or Monster Hunter?

No, no! Calm down. Samus isn’t here, so I’m safe. Besides, I have wings now. If something tries to attack me I can just fly away, maybe I could even use my claws.

I thought, calming myself down from my miniature panic attack. Lost in my thoughts, I moved my wings in front of me and start feeling them. Since my claws were in the way, I use my knuckles to feel them. It felt leathery and hard but also had a smooth texture to it.

"Alright, now that I have wings I can actu- ACK! OW FUCK ME!" I shouted after I stood up too fast and hit my head on the ceiling filled stalactites, "Okay time to clear this shit up before I stab myself in the head again. I’d rather die to Samus than die like a dumbass! " I grumbled as I started to claw and scrape every stalactite I could see on the way out of my cave. Seriously, that shit hurts!

After doing a little clean up in the cave, I went outside to smell the fresh sea air and stretch my tense muscles. I looked at my wings to move them around, opening and closing them to test out their mobility. It felt like I had grown two more arms, but with different anatomy, almost like of thumbs and arms had a baby.

They were pretty big on my opinion, stretching out at least ten feet in wingspan which was a good size to get me off the ground, so all I need to do is practice. Based upon my best knowledge, my wings had membranes and not feathers, meaning I needed to use them for flying if cartoons were to be believed anyway.

"Time to take this experience to a whole new level. I might fall or crash in the process, but that won't stop me until I can touch the clouds. Or maybe one day, reach for the stars. No pun intended... maybe." I said to myself, stoking myself up with a new sense of determination as I walk to an open area where there weren't any rocks around. A perfect place great place to test my wings. "Alright. Let's start with some-"

*growl*

A familiar sound and feeling moved in my empty belly. "I guess I can't practice on an empty stomach." I muttered, as I made my way to my stash.

Yes. It's a stash not a horde. I'm still not accustomed on how a dragon should store their treasures. Maybe, that dragon would know. What was her name again?

"Hey, Ember! I heard you got in trouble with your dad again! Did he really send you to your room again?" An annoying dragon asked with fake curiosity.

The blue dragoness, Ember, was sitting on her usual spot with claws under her head, while being teased by two dragons that heard the news from yesterday. She didn’t pay any mind to the idiotic comments since most dragons couldn’t come up with a good insult to save their worthless hide. Instead of listening to the monotonous droning of dumb and dumber, she thought heavily about the Gauntlet of Fire. The event was scheduled for a week from then, giving dragons from far and wide enough time to fly over or wake up early from their 100-year naps if they wanted to participate. She had to plan a way to get past her father, survive the gauntlet, and grab the scepter while everydragon was in her way.

"Aww look at her, pouting like a little baby. I bet her dad even took some of her horde." Said the violet one with orange hair that is covering his eyes. If Ember cared enough to remember she’d know his name was Fume.

"Yeah. Looks like she's gonna eat plain old rocks from now on." Said the gray one with green spines who was named Charcoal. The only reason she remembered that pest was because she had a crush on him when she was little, though she’d sooner die than ever admit that.

"Hey! I suggest you both shut your trap before you really gonna get it!" Ember shouted as she tried to make her plan for retrieving the scepter.

"What you gonna do? Throw us around and smash us?" Fume mocked.

"Or throw us a huge boulder?" Charcoal added on.

"Fume! Charcoal! Let her be!" Shouted a red dragon with orange spines who just flew in. "She's had enough, just let her cry about her daddy issues from now on. You don't wanna have her dad coming here and squash both of us."

"Aw come on, Garble. We are just messing with her." Said Fume.

"Nope. I'm serious. For now. we gotta keep a safe distance away from her." Garble stated firmly, as he pushed his lackies away from Ember. But then they suddenly stopped a short distance away from Ember.

Ember knew who Garble was, ever since he came back from the dragon migration he stood out to her. Ember had some suspicions about him since his return, believing that his fun time in pony-land may have been a bit more violent than they were allowed to be. Aside from that Ember just knew that he was a real jerk, "Now you can start bugging her!" Garble shouted.

"Ha ha! She can't even do anything while we're this far." Charcoal teased.

"Yeah. Thanks to her dad, she can't go beyond his nest." Fume shouted. Ember heard what he said and was actually a bit curious. She didn’t know how dumb, dumber, and moron knew about her reinforced restrictions.

"Glad that I had to let him know, now that he doesn't have to worry about her wittle precious princess getting hurt." Garble teased. Ember's eyes widen as she heard the truth about her punishment.

"So it was YOU who snitched on me!?" She growled.

"Hey don't take it personal, I'm just following orders." Garble explained with a shit eating grin.

"... So, my father ordered you to keep me in watch?"

"Well, yes and no. But, it makes my job easier now that you're cooped up in one spot. I don't really have to worry about getting my tail snapped by your dad. But hey, at least the pay is good."

"Why you no good sniveling wingdrake!"

"Aww. I'm flattered." Garble and his friends all laughed at the blue dragoness.

In anger, Ember took a deep breath and spat a strong torrent of fire towards them. Garble was quick enough to notice the oncoming fire and avoid it, but his friends weren’t paying attention as it passed between them and hit a boulder behind them causing it to explode and hit the back of their heads. Both Fume and Charcoal laid on the ground dazed as Garble looked back at Ember with hate in his eyes.

"You'll pay for that!" He shouted as he picked up his two friends and flew away.

Ember was relieved that they got the message to not mess with her. In her mind, she never wanted to hurt them but being raised in the Dragonlands made her who she was now. Sure, she must be strong in order to live in this harsh land, but deep down she really wanted to care, to show some empathy towards them, even if they were a bunch of pricks.

Her father's harsh words kept echoing in her mind, saying “How insignificant you are” and other verbal lashings. They had all built up into a mountain of rage towards her father over the years. She tried to stand up to him, but she had to admit that she was too small to oppose him. She wished there was at least one other dragon to stand with her and go against her father's wishes.

"I really wish someone can help me get what I want…"

*Oceanside*

I never realized trying to fly would be this hard. I did the basics and just by flapping my wings alot, but once I tried to lift myself off the ground, I began crashing all over the place like a tossed ragdoll. The real issue was trying to steady myself since my wings were so big I could barely keep myself in one place while I was in the air. My trajectory was also another issue, no matter how hard I tried to fly straight I’d end up falling on one side and then the other. It was a familiar feeling, like my first time driving a car, but this was completely different. I also had some knowledge of how planes are flown, but that only applied to gliding, and I couldn’t do that until I found out her to get in the air. I was making some slight progress, nut it was slow and painful.

"Damn. I can't believe my wings are so fucking sore." I groaned. "I'm not sure if I'm doing this right. Is it the rhythm or the flap speed?"

I tried to think deeply on how I could use my wings in certain methods, but I couldn't seem to understand how. I then started to remember the Metroid games I recently played, back when I was still Jake. Ridley was massive from what I could understand, but this body definitely didn’t feel like his huge body. It was more like someone had left him in the dryer for too long and he shrunk down to about the height of, or maybe twice the height of a human.

Now how does he use his wings? They are big so he must have flapped them at a slow pace, plus he can easily glide just by spreading them.

"Hmm… maybe that's why."

Understanding what I had to do and after a few minutes of rest, I stretched my wings to relieve their soreness and began to take flight once again. This time, I flapped my wings in a slow and slightly stronger rhythm as I braced myself before I began. Little by little, I feel myself getting off the ground with each flap, but my goal was to stay in the air. I added more strength one more time and I'm slowly off the ground. I was still shaky since my recent attempts but I was definitely getting the hang of it.

"Okay okay okay." I said nervously, "I'm in the air but not flying." Technically I was just hovering since I wasn’t too far off the ground, I landed back down so I can recall some of my recent mistakes.

It's the membranes. I use too much force and flapped too fast because the webbing of my wings absorb more air. That's why I keep crashing.

"Alright. Let's try this again."

Now confident to stay in air, I used the same method to keep myself hover. I almost lost balance due to my eagerness. "Alright, now that I can hover in one spot, let's see if I can steer." I tried to lean forward to go straight but I was still in one spot, I did the same in different directions to no avail. "Okay this is new. Let's try adjusting my wings a bit." As I angled my wings forward, to my surprise I started moving. I adjusted my wings back to stop and I panicked as I start moving backwards. I was incredibly amazed by how agile they were.

Woah!

I straightened myself while keeping a steady rhythm, but the sudden wind changed my trajectory and forced me to move to the left. "Oh shit! Oh shit! Oh shit! Oh shit!" I shouted as I tried to maintain a steady beat, but to my horror I was blown over to the direction of the ocean near the cliffs edge. "Oohhh fuck me!"

In an instant I had no ground to land on as I was now a few feet away from the cliff. Looking down, I could see the rushing water and sharp rocks below that would soon skewer me. I began to hyperventilate as I kept falling.

"No no no no no!" I began flailing my limbs, mentally thinking that I would claw my way up, but we all know that is physically impossible. Water and rock were beginning to come closer, and with it death would soon arrive to take me a second time in one week. "Argh! Dammit! SNAP OUT OF IT AND FLY!"

Both fear and frustration built up inside me, I closed my eyes shut while I stretched my wings wider and flapped down harder. I closed and widened each my wings quickly, hoping that would pull me away from my watery grave.

As I waited for my inevitable death, I noticed that the inevitable was taking a while to be… well, inevitable. Taking a peek, I saw that the rocks were getting a lot smaller than before, then it suddenly became foggy for a few seconds and then it was suddenly clear again. Looking down at the shrinking landmass, I realized why I wasn’t a Ridley-Kabob.

"... oh… fffff… shhhh… no…" I turned out to be a fool as I realized that I flew high up above the clouds. "Damn. Why do I get to do this already? I'm still learning how to use these, but this is jumping ahead too soon." I kept a still face while I was slowly descending, the only thing that betrayed my calm demeanor was my nervously wagging tail and my heart exploding out of my chest with each beat. I tried to calm myself down as the reasonable part of my brain told my body that I’d be doing this a lot in the future, so I shouldn’t let it bother me in the present.

"Calm down. I am not a helpless human, I'm now a fucking dragon. A ferocious alien space dragon look alike that terrorizes the galaxy, I became Ridley, and I won't let this goddamn fall be the end of me! Not on the second day, not the next, NOT FUCKING EVER!" I exclaimed with a new-found sense of bravery. Immediately, I tucked in my wings and started to dive down towards the water and rocks.

Ember now sitting on her usual spot, was still trying to think of a way to get the scepter. It had been an hour since the Troublesome Trio had annoyed her, and she was no closer to figuring out how she could get her claws on that scepter.

Slowly growing more frustrated as the seconds ticked by, she laid flat on her belly nearly at the tip of the cliff, hoping for something to inspire her. As she looked forward, she spotted something in the distance flying really high in the sky.

"Is that…? No it couldn't be." Muttered Ember, squinting her eyes to confirm on what she saw. "You've got to be kidding me. What is he doing?"

Seeing the familiar dragon flying high up had begun to worry her since she knew the risks of flying in high altitude. Suddenly, he stopped and started to plummet towards the ground.

"That idiot!" She shouted. "Does he know that dragons can't fly that high!? You can't even breathe!"

She wanted to go and save him but an invisible force was preventing her for doing so. It was a new safety feature put in place by the king to prevent his daughter from leaving. A small golden ring that was bound to a single gold coin in the horde that wouldn’t allow the wearer to travel more than a mile away from the coin. And since her father’s stash was full of coins she had no hope of ever finding the one that was bound to her ring. She cursed inwardly that her father's order was preventing her to leave within the nest. Hearing the words 'insignificant' play in her head over and over again.

"I hope he doesn't die." She quietly said as she stopped fighting the magical barrier.

I struggled to steady myself as the wind kept blowing me off to the side, moving me away from my destination, the ocean. I arched my wings a little to have more steer to the wind and it worked perfectly. As the land and sea grew closer, I prepared to put these wings to the test, recreating one of the coolest scenes from How to Train your Dragon.

"Almooost… Wings… don't fail me now!"

I spread them wide open and gave two more strong flaps, and angled up steer.

"AHH FUCK!" I was too close to the water, my legs and torso grazed until a lone rock appeared in front of me, sticking up ahead of me like a lighthouse.

"SHIT!" I yelped. I quickly tilted my body left and angled my wings to make a left turn similar to how a plane's ailerons work, and just grazed the rock with my tail. Now there were no obstacles ahead, and I was gliding at high velocity.

"WAAAAAAAHHHHHH HA HA HAAAA!!! TOOTHLESS CAN SUCK IT!"

The speed was an exhilarating feeling, like I had flown out of a roller coaster seat with no fear for my life. I used the same method to go the opposite way by turning right. I could feel my wingtip graze the water as I soared over the water like a majestic pterodactyl. Thinking of a way to fly upward, I flapped my wings while gliding and I started moving more away from the water. I was actually able to reach the cliffside I started on, and started circling around like a vulture as I tried to think of a way to get down.

I did by swooping upwards and let gravity to do the rest as I glide slowly back down. Once I touched the ground, I stumbled and fell to my hands and knees, panting heavily and feeling really dizzy. Not only that, my wings were also completely sore and I could barely lift them.

After recovering a bit, I sat down and leaned my back against one of the trees teetering at the edge of the cliff as I looked at the sun setting beyond the ocean. I had accomplished something that no human had ever hoped or dreamed of doing, even though I was a dragon.

"... Yeah… I can fly… Suck it Physics."

"Uggh… that moron!" Growled Ember. "I can easily tell just by looking that he is not a good flyer, but at least he is alright." She sat down in relief after witnessing the purple dragon landing safely and unharmed.

"Still, it was too dangerous to fly that high, I can't even believe this dragon is capable of doing it. No other dragon can do that. Plus, I have never seen one fly that fast!" said Ember, astonished, "He really is quite something alright, which means this might be harder to get the scepter. If he really is after it." She shuddered at the thought of that dragon.

"He could be one powerful dragon lord." She stated as she began to imagine him as the ruler of dragons, standing tall and proud with the scepter in his claw. And her by his side…

"... WHY IN TARTARUS AM I THINKING ABOUT THIS!?" She shouted out in confusion and rage.

Chapter 3: First Impression is at Beast

View Online

Edited by Hotel_Chicken

It had been three days since I was whisked away from my life on Earth, and I felt like total crap. The pain I felt as I uncurled my stiff muscles could only be compared to the times I fell asleep after playing Online Smash, except instead of my hands hurting from playing, everything felt like it was made of brittle wood. Surprisingly, the uncomfortable sting in my muscles wasn’t from sleeping on the jagged rocks and stones that lined the floor of my cave, nor was it caused by the odd way my body naturally curled into itself so I could sleep more like a cat, although it certainly didn’t help that I had to painfully untangle my limbs to get up. No, all the pain I felt was solely caused by the exertion I had pushed on my new wings yesterday. I didn’t know what fucked up biology my body had, but apparently my wings acted like the nervous center of my body, similar to how a human’s spine acted, which was weird since I was pretty sure I had a spine. Then again for all I knew I had two spines and four hearts. I had only taken a good look at my exterior, never really checking for a pulse or anything like that. Hell, I didn’t even know I had a dick until I really had to pee. For my own sanity, I refuse to bring up that bit of biology and how it’s able to hide itself, just know that it was a very disturbing learning experience for me that I wouldn’t wish on anyone.

Anyway, after untangling the mess of limbs, which included my wings and tail, I began waking up and started on my new morning routine. I dragged myself over to my newly designated lava shower, which had a convenient runoff that went into a hole a few feet to the right of the pouring magma, similar to the drain of a shower which thankfully prevented my cave from being flooded with constant lava. Just because lava didn’t hurt me didn’t mean I wanted to sleep in a pool of it or drown in it. Could I even drown? Whatever, a question for after I found this world’s equivalent of coffee.

The heat of the lava was pleasant enough as it flowed down my stiff muscles, the beyond boiling liquid loosening all of my stiff joints as I stretched underneath it’s current. It brought me a little sense of joy to think that I’d be able to shower like this every day, walking into a shower that had the perfect temperature no matter what.

After staying in the shower for what was probably longer than necessary, I stepped out and instinctively shook the lava off of me like a dog. It took me a second to realize what I was doing before I stopped to chastise myself for acting like an animal. I was a human dammit, I’d use a towel like a civilized person… If I had one…

As my eyes wandered my spartan cavern for a nonexistent towel, I realized just how little I actually had. Aside from my pile of Gems that I shoved into a corner so I could snack on them, I didn’t have anything. No furniture, no water, I didn’t even have any clothes. Granted, I didn’t need clothes since Ridley never wore them and my… *ahem* privates, were well concealed, I would be fine without them, not to mention that dragon I met was also completely in the bluff without a care, and she was the opposite gender. Though I won’t lie, having something to put on myself, even for decoration would have been nice, maybe even some armor or something in case Samus ever did show up. My body may have been tough, but it wasn’t invincible. Samus always found a way to beat Ridley, and it almost always involved him and explosions, lots of ‘em. In the end, I decided to push those thoughts aside and continue on with my day.

Walking out of my cave, thankfully with no stalactites to pierce my head, I took a deep breath of the sea air as I stretched my body and wings. If this was going to be my morning every day, then I didn’t think it would ever get old. And when I thought about it, I always wanted my own place close to the ocean with the view and all. Sure, it wasn’t as luxurious as how I imagined it, but at least it was decent by dragon standards.

Not wasting anymore time, I walked to where the river was located so I could rinse off some of the lava that still clung to my body. The river was big enough to let me sink in, the cold and nearly frigid water a bitter-sweet contrast to the lava shower inside my cave. As the water of the river caused the lava that still clung to me to harden into obsidian, I began to rip small chunks of the now hardened magma off of my wings and scales.

My eyes wandered the scenery around me as I unconsciously scratched away the rocks. While looking around, I spotted some moss and algae that had formed on the edge of the river some time ago. As I thought about the plant life and animals I had seen so far on… Whatever planet this was, I suddenly felt something bump on my ass which made me yelp in surprise. I tried to grab whatever it was that touched me, but it slipped through my claws and swam towards the moss. As it swam away, I realized what it was, it was fish. Or, more precisely, it was going to be my breakfast.

"Oh no you don't!" Quickly, I chased it down as it kept slipping out of my claws. I tried using my tail to at least tried to pierce it, but my aim was always off and my reaction time was too slow.

I really need to practice…

No matter how hard I tried, it avoided my claws and tail with ease as I thrashed about in the water. Hunger was quickly giving way to extreme annoyance until I instinctively lashed out and tried to catch it in my jaws.

*SNAP*

The satisfying sound of bones being snapped and the sweet coppery taste of blood greeted me a few seconds after I bit down on the fish. The small aquatic animal weakly struggled as its inevitable death approached with an agonizing slowness. It was odd in a way, somehow, I tasted a difference between its life and death, a sweet flavor that was lost as the life faded away from its corpse. Looking back on how I caught the fish made me realize some similarities on how certain animals catch their prey in their own unique way. If this was how I was going to be eating from now on, I didn't really mind. Nature is fucking awesome!

Back on land, I began chewing, or is it chomping since I don't have cheeks? The fish I caught has a very unique taste and it wasn't like any other fish I had tried before compare to my world. It was delicious overall and I finally swallowed it whole, bones, scales, and all. I know it was raw but I didn't really care. It was a nice meal, but it didn’t feel like it was nearly enough. Since the fish came from up the river stream, I decided to follow it up stream where there might have been more to find. It was also a good excuse to explore more of the Dragonlands and see if there was anything besides dragons in the Dragonlands.

"Alright. Time for an expedition!"

*GROWL*

"... dammit." I muttered, "Why is the fish not enough! I'm gonna get tired of eating gems soon if this keeps up. I don't want to live the rest of my life without any meat, or some delicious culinary food."

I stood up and started drying off my wings so I could take off. After a few experimental flaps, I launched myself into the air and flew upstream in search of more food.

"Let's hope I don't get eaten…" I muttered as I glided over the river before I almost fell out of the sky by laughing too hard. "Who am I kidding!? I'm mother fuckin' Ridley!"

Ember sat in her cave, still pondering on how to get the scepter. As if her own mind was working against her, not a single idea popped into her head. She had the basics of a plan, like getting a few lackies of her own to help cut down the competition but she had absolutely no idea how she could have convinced any of her fellow dragons to join her. The thought of offering her hoard to someone devoted to her passed her mind, but was then instantly discarded, along with every other idea that came with paying off her fellow dragons.

The blue dragoness wasn’t weak by any measure of the word, it was just that she was smarter than the others. She knew when she could and couldn’t win a fight, and she knew that a fight with hundreds of dragons was a fight she’d lose.

In frustration, she stopped thinking and flopped onto her horde of gems and gold. It would be easier if her father had not bound her to his nest, at least then she’d be able to catch a glance at the gauntlet he was preparing.

"This blows…" breathed Ember. She glanced at the object of her scorn, the thing that had kept her inside her father’s domain, an enchanted ring that was magically stuck to her claw.

She growled and fumbled the ring on her claw that she desperately wanted to destroy. But, it was a useless act. She had briefly considered the idea of biting her claw off to free herself, but that would only make matters worse. Firstly, she’d have an open wound, a sign of weakness among the dragons, and secondly she had no plan for after that. It wasn’t like she’d fly over to Equestria and live with the ponies, her goal was still to become the next Dragon Lord after all. "Maybe I need something to help me cool off for now. Taking a dip doesn't sound so bad. And at least it's within the nest."

She exited her cave and flew to the nearest pond, one that a certain space reptile was also heading towards.

*Meanwhile*

It had been about a few minutes since I started flying up the river. I slowly began adjusting more on my wings and it starts to feel natural. I even flew up high enough to do some aerial tricks like: tilts, barrel rolls, and loops. Looking ahead, I saw a pond with a surprising amount of fauna and vegetation surrounding it, making it stand out against the red rocks that almost cut it off from the rest of the Dragonlands.

Putting that aside, I looked at the few other dragons around the pond, a wide menagerie of dragons ranging from tall, short, fat, thin, and just about every color of the rainbow. I found it interesting how each dragon could be unique by their appearances and I was certain that the longer I stayed in the Dragonlands the more I’d know about them. Getting closer, I started to descend and landed at an open spot near the pond. Looking around, the whole place looked like some form of a crater, but it wasn’t steep enough to call it one.

There was a tall rock leaning towards the water, which gave me a good view to spot some of the fish from above. I positioned myself in a pouncing position on my stomach, waiting for a nice plump fish to swim close enough for me to jump on it in a moment’s notice.

As I waited for my opportune moment to strike, I could hear some faint whispers coming from the two local dragons. One who was purple and the other was yellow like a sunflower, and both of them looked pretty overweight.

"Who's that guy?" One of them whispered. I paid them little mind as I focused on my hunt, but kept an earhole in their direction in case they got any stupid ideas.

"I don't know, never seen somedrake like him before. He must be new."

"Kinda feel bad for him seeing how boney his body looks. He looks like he hasn't eaten for weeks."

"He won't last much longer, that's for sure."

Okay, that was rude. Assholes.

"So Backdraft, you were saying that Torch is stepping down as Dragon Lord? Hoho man! This is awesome!"

"Yeah Clump! In a few days, all dragons around the world will come here and participate for the Gauntlet of Fire." I know it is rude to eavesdrop on someone else's conversation, but I couldn't help but listen, "The prize is the Bloodstone Scepter, and who ever grabs it has the right to become the next dragon lord."

"Yeah I know! Can you imagine what you can do as dragon lord? You can boss any dragon across the whole world and no dragon can't deny their order."

Seriously? By just grabbing the scepter so you can order any dragon around? I can't imagine what they would do with that power…

They’d fuck you over that’s what! A part of my mind reasoned. I nearly jumped in surprise when that voice boomed inside my head. That… That wasn’t me. Or… Or it was? It felt off, more primal and predatory, almost on the edge of villainous. Control any dragon?! They’d want your hoard, they’d want your home near the ocean because they’re jealous. But they can’t have it, it’s ours! Ours! Ours! OURS!

Yeah… Yeah fuck them! That’s mine! That’s my lava shower, my gems, my ocean view! My thoughts became a storm of fury inside my mind that I didn’t notice I was glaring intently at them until the yellow one noticed and pointed it out to the purple one.

"Yeah! I know what I'm gonna do when I—"

"Hey! That guy is lookin' at us."

Shit! I tried to look away from them and whistle, as if I was minding my own business.

*Blow* *Blow*... *BLOOOW*

…

FUUUUUUUUCK! I CAN'T FUCKING WHISTLE! I DON’T HAVE LIPS!

"Hey you!" One of them called out.

So much for listening in other conversations, can you blame me? "Uh… yeah?" I hesitantly asked.

Both dragons came closer and size wise they were not as big as I originally thought, just below shoulder length, "Just what are you starin' at huh?" said the purple dragon, I assume his name is Backdraft.

"I uhh… I just heard about that cool… dragon lord thing that… I heard about?"

"You heard that? How did even hear our conversation? We were whispering." said the yellow dragon, who I think was named Clump.

"Really? I uh… Look, I just have really good hearing. Listen, I'm sorry if you think I was eavesdropping, I really didn’t mean to."

"Heh! You hear that Clump? He's ‘sorry’." Chuckled Backdraft.

"Hah! You think we were gonna let you off that easy? You have no idea what you just got yourself into." Said Clump. These dragons really reminded me of some of those punk-ass kids back when I was in Junior High. I hate bullies. I decided to just call them by color since I didn’t care too much to remember their names.

"Hey come on! I said I was sorry." I said, irritated by the dragons' behavior, "It was an accident to begin with. Can't you just let it slide?"

"Around here, we don't do sorry's." said Purple, as he cracked his claws, which was both fascinating and disturbing to see.

"There is only one way to settle this." said Yellow, while popping his shoulder and neck.

Suddenly, I noticed a crowd of dragons forming a circle around us. Of course something like this would happen, at first I thought they normally say 'fight' but, they surprised me when they chanted something else other than fight.

“TURF WAR! TURF WAR! TURF WAR! TURF WAR!”

I was both nervous and laughing internally, because back when I was Jake, there was a game I played and it had a thing called 'Turf Wars'. It was when certain monsters invade other monsters’ territory they start duking it out until either one is superior and forces the defeated monster to leave. Now that I look at it, it kinda makes sense why they would call it this.

"Look guys, I really don't want to do this." I said cautiously.

"Or what? Afraid that we might break a bone or two?" said Purple.

Yes. Break them! Rip and Tear! Rip and TEAR!

"Or burn your wings off?" said Brown.

That too. Wait… burn? I should be able to breathe fire, but I haven't tested that yet.

"Well yeah. Those are valid points. And the main reason why is that I don't want anyone to get hurt." I said.

"... Are you saying that you’re tougher than us?" The purple one asked.

"Ha! You talk big for someone who's all scrawny. I bet you can't even smash a pebble." Said Yellow.

FUCK HIM UP! PROVE WHO’S SUPERIOR!

These guys had no idea what I am capable of. I really didn't want to hurt them because being an alien space dragon could lead to ruthless results. But I needed to find some alternatives to avoid the fighting.

"Then how about we do a strength test? If I can prove that I can out strength you, will you please leave me alone and accept my apology?" I said until they gave a 'your joking' look.

"... Are you for real? Your not gonna get away that easy!" Purple said.

"Yeah. We know how it's going to end, so don't bother!" Said Yellow.

"'CAUSE YOU'RE DEAD!' "They both said as they started their assault.

Well, there goes that plan.
FIGHT!

They both charged at me at the same time and each using different attacks. Purple was charging up his fire in his mouth while Yellow was just flying towards me to tackle me down. As far as how these stooges act, I could easily tell this is not going to end well. For them.

Yellow was the first to come and tackled me, but I stopped him as I held his charge. Surprisingly, he moved me a few feet, it almost felt like a football player running onto me but smaller. I noticed Purple flying from above and is about to spit his flame. I held my ground as I quickly lift up his pudgy friend who is somewhat light for some reason, and threw him at my attacker. In result, the violet dragon violently spat his ball of fire at a big size while he was hit by his friend as they both crashed onto each other. Both flew pretty far and both landed hard enough crack the ground. The fireball however came fast towards me I barely had any time to react as it hit the ground causing it to explode violently knocking me away. A stinging sensation of pain pulsed my body, it was brief but not as bad as a sprain or bruise. I stood up immediately pissed off knowing that dumb and dumber didn't want the easy way, now I would show them the hard way.

The dragons around us gave some surprised looks and cheers from this fight. It lasted for a bit until the two bullies shook off their fall and began to charge at me again. This time they both flew into the air and readied their breath wanting to barrage me. If they wanted to take the fight to the air, it would be their funeral.

Immediately, I launched myself up and start to fly and gain speed as I began to circle around them. They began shooting their fireballs at me but it's not fast enough to hit me. I gained enough speed and momentum as I quickly lined up my aim at the yellow drake in front of the purple drake. Now locked on to my target, I immediately flew straight with some strength and thrust the joint hooks of my wings over my head and dived towards the two drakes. While I was doing this move, the two drakes barraged me with fire balls, hitting me hardly feel any pain from each shot. To my surprise, both immediately dodged to the side avoiding my fast oncoming attack. I was able to stop myself as I turned and faced the drakes. Looking at their expressions, they looked like they were in pain as I can see they were looking at their wounds different from each other with both burn and gash. I thought I missed as the moved away, but I had no idea that my aerial assault would do that kind of damage. Trying to shake off their wounds, they began to look at me with rage and start to chase me down as I started flying upward.

I flew higher as the two drakes began to chase me and still trying to shoot me down with their fireballs. After a few seconds, I looked behind wondering why they stop and see wings flapped sluggishly seeing their tongues hanging out looking tired and out of breath. I slowed my descent to confront the two and try to have a civil conversation with these two. Seems this fight was just a fluke after all.

"Looks like your both out of breath. Should we just call it a draw and forget about what just happened today?" I asked while crossing my arms and hovering.

"Ha… ha… how did… how are you still breathing?" Backdraft asked as he tried to fill his lungs with air.

"Ha… yeah… ha… no dragon can fly… that… high..." Said Clump, who was probably having more trouble breathing.

True. But I'm a different kind of dragon.

"Alright, how about we discuss this on the ground yeah?" I said, as they both nodded in agreement and we both descended back down to the ground.

"Now." I began as we touched the ground and both drakes stumbled on their butt and belly, "I kinda understand how you two want to be recognized or showing off to others on how great you two can be. But…" I pointed my tail towards the as they showed some fear on their faces, "What I can't tolerate is the fact that your behavior is really unacceptable."

I could hear whispers from the other dragons seeing how I raised my tail against them. Purple hesitantly tried to speak.

"Y… you were staring-"

"And I said I'm sorry." Then Yellow tries to speak.

"B-but… we are just-"

"Morons. That's what you both are. Always take action on whomever you decide to pick on and be satisfied after their result." I inched my tail almost close to their faces as they leaned back more, "Here something cool, my tail barb is possibly the sharpest and strongest than any steel sword so it can cut or pierce easily with anything. Plus, I can easily break rocks that hold gems in them. So imagine what it can do,... against a dragon." Both gulped at the thought, "But lucky for both of you, I've got a soft spot." the two drakes looked at each other in confusion. I wasn't planning on hurting them, but I wasn’t going to let them off easy, "From now on, for whatever reason that someone has or had an accident or any other mishaps that has bumped into you, once they say 'sorry' you forgive them. Understand?" I leaned over them as they tensed a bit.

"Y-yes sir." They both said.

"Then we're good." I said as I relaxed myself and pulled my tail back.

"R-really?"

"Yeah." I couldn't help but laugh a bit, "I'm sorry but you should've seen the look on your face." I pointed at brown.

"I… I had no idea what you were going to do." He said and starts to laugh too.

"Heh. You look like you were going to wet yourself. I really thought he was going to carve us with that." Said Purple who's also chuckling.

"Yeah I know. Soft spot remember?"

But who said we were done with them?

Using my legs and wings, I immediately pounced on the two dragons, clutched both of their heads in my claws, and dragged them to the nearest wall. I had to assume how fast I was about to start up, but holy shit! Judging how fast I pounced, not even a rabbit would be quick enough to react. Seeing their expressions on their eyes show me that they now have their attention on me with a dash of fear into it. So to prove my point, I had to go all 'Batman mode'.

"If you two ever pull that stunt again, you both will realize that I won't be as half-ass as you thought I once was. And you will also see in the worst of ways of how ruthless and merciless as I can be." I said menacingly, as I end it with...

*SLAP*

A slap on their faces… What? You think I would just give them a peck on the cheek? Nope! Not coming from Ridley! That would definitely be out of character.

I turned and walked towards the rock I was next to, "So! You assholes stay out trouble next time. Or else..." I looked back at them giving the smile, "There won't be a next time."

"Y-y-y-yes sir!" The two drakes immediately responded as the scrambled up and fly away to who knows where.

I began to calm myself after teaching dumb and dumber a lesson. I had the idea to be passive aggressive to them, but I didn’t believe that would entirely work. Knowing dragons could be tough, I just had to go with their element and threat them physically. With my strength and appearance, I could really give them a serious message to not mess with me. Speaking of dragons, the remaining crowd of them were all still standing in a circle looking at me. It's rude and fucking nerve wrecking as hell with this crowd staring at you. So, I had to do something to get them moving.

"... Alright! Shows over! No reason to gawk at me like I'm some alien." Literally.

"You heard him!" A familiar voice called out to help with the crowd, "He won the turf war so get a move on! Or else." The voice came from the tall rock and on top of it was the same blue dragoness that welcomed me on my first day.

Ember? Ally?

After her demand, all the dragons began to go their way and the only one left are me and Ember. "So." She came down from the rock and came close, "What brings you here? Here to pick fights? Because that little tussle you just had with those two was just sad."

Really? No hello or nice seeing you again? I guess some things are a bit complex here now huh? Or she is just straight up a Tsundere. Enemy?

"Nice to see you too." I said sarcasm, "But no, I just happen to accidentally bump into some jerks and they pulled the first punch."

"Yeah, you might happen to get into fights like this more often around here. I just happen to pass by and was hoping to see what you've got, but overall it was pretty pathetic." What she said had me a bit confused but I began to understand what she meant.

"You know, I kinda had that thought too. I expected more out of those two, but I didn't even break a sweat."

"Right. Your boney body just hides your real strength. They had no idea what they were up against." She said, looking at the distance where the two idiots went. "Anyways," she looks to the side, "I saw that you got hit a few times. Are you okay… um, what's your name again? "

Huh. I guess she forgot my name, but I could see she was actually trying to care, which I was happy about. "It's Ridley. And yeah, it's not that bad, just some burns and bruises. But I feel fine nonetheless." I said as she nodded.

"That's good. It’ll be bad if you see a crippled dragon. They lose their pride and will to live if that ever happens." She said.

"Wait… what?"

"Never mind. Which reminds me. How can you breathe when you fly that high? All dragons can't breathe when we are that high up." She asked. Though she gave a fair point as to why those two bullies got tired as I flew up far enough. But still, I had to give her some fake answers, assuming she wouldn't believe that I am a terror from the stars.

"Uhh… Our species specializes in flight, so we fly up high most for our time."

"How so? It's not like you can sleep in air. Because that would be very strange and stupid."

"Yeah well. It's because we have been nesting at high mountain peaks. You know, like that tip of the mountain that pass through the clouds?" She nods, "From where I'm from, it is an archipelago of very tall mountain peaks. I'm sure that is how we've adapted throughout our time. I don't know the full story of my kind but it's something like that."

"Really? I gotta admit, you really are one strange dragon, but I'm starting to see why you are so special. And I already know that you are not from around here." That… is kinda nice coming from her, "So. What brings you here to this pond? Usually is just us drakes chilling or roughhousing."

"Oh. I'm here to get me some fish."

"Fish? You actually eat those? I know there are some leviathans that eat fish, but I never heard a dragon interested in eating them."

"What? I thought you guys can also eat them?"

"Only if we're desperate. We don't like the taste."

"Really? I thought your-er-our diet consisted of mainly meat."

"It is, but it's only for special occasions, then we eat gems or gold as our main food source. You can't go wrong with either of those two."

Huh. I guess dragons here are a lot different than what I expected.

"Right." I stared at the pond and looked around and noticed that there was no other river to fill the lake except its exit. Wanting to know how made me want to dive in, " Hang on, I'm going to check something." I walked in the water and dove into the pond to see if there was an underground tunnel system or something keeping it filled.

Ember watched the boney drake dive into the pond to check for… something. Probably looking for fish she thought. Thinking back from the fight she saw, she knew both Backdraft and Clump since they came back from the migration. Those two were a force to be reckoned with when they worked together, managing to chase some of the largest dragons out of their territory, becoming one of the most fearsome dragon duos known. So far, they had been undefeated, until the skinny dragon had somehow managed to beat them without much of a fight. Even by himself, he is tough enough to take hits, strong enough to throw a chubby dragon, and fast enough to fly. I never seen one fly so fast. Why does he always keep surprising me?

He's been in the water for a really long time. I wonder if he happens to-

"… WAIT! I FORGOT TO TELL HIM THAT DRAGONS CAN'T-"

"*GASP* Hoo man! I didn't think I could hold my breath that long!" He finally resurfaced surprising the heck out of Ember. She couldn’t even believe that she actually felt scared for that weirdo. "It looks like there is a deep hole that somehow acts as a system to bring in the water. I'm guessing it's coming from the ocean and I see why there are so many fish. And I happen to catch a few too." He finished as he showed his tail with three fish through them.

Ember couldn't help but wonder, doing almost every feat that some dragons can't even accomplish. Strength to destroy boulders with a single punch, flying high past the clouds, swimming, FUCKING SWIMMING! Doggy paddle or floating sure, but diving into the water and swimming? That was usually a death trap for dragons, their own wings forcing their bodies down into the depths of the water at their limbs would flail about. Being able to swim without his wings getting dragged down by the water would require Ridley to hold his wings to his body with a bone crushing strength. What more can this dragon do? He is pretty amaz-

"Hello!? Earth to Ember!"

"Uhh… wha!?"

"You were staring into space, is there something in your mind?" He asked.

Oh gorg! Did I really space out!? AND WHY IS HE SO CLOSE!?

"HAA!!!"

*POW!*

Without thinking Ember just punched him and immediately jumped in the deep shallow part of the pond just to cool off, making sure to keep her wings tucked closely to her side as she dove into the water.

Why. Why is he so nice?

He doesn't look nice! He's a fearsome looking dragon.

He's somewhat a moron!

But he's…

…

… pretty cool.

"... Okay. What just happened?" I groaned while a sharp pain pulsed my right cheek.

I had no idea why Ember punched me and almost knocked me to the ground. How could this have been my fault if she is just staring at space when I tried to talk to her? But seriously, that girl could really hit. Shaking off the pain, I stood up and checked my tail to see I still have the fishes I caught. I looked for Ember to see where she has gone, until I noticed something bubbling in the shallow water.

"*PWAH!* Ohh I needed that." Said Ember a she popped out of the water.

"Hey!" She turned to me as I called her, "Is there a reason why you punched me?"

Fuck reason! Fight Back!

"... Well seeing that you are strong, I thought you were one of those dragons that can react quick enough to avoid attacks. I thought you could, but I guess I was wrong."

Oh. Shit I never thought of that. Knowing Ridley, he is always on guard. Maybe I should focus on my senses, if it works…

"Yeah well, I guess that is why I'm still training on my senses." I lied, "But my whole time coming here has cut off some of my training regimen. "I still need to work on that."

"Right. Well you better get to it then, it may be useful until the gauntlet." She said.

"The 'Gauntlet'? I heard it is some big dragon event, what is it about?"

"What? But… you… I thought… ughhh! You know what? I'm not going to ask, but I'll just play dumb and explain it to you." She said as she walked to the two oval shaped rocks next to each other, until Ember sat on one, "... well? I'm waiting."

Oh. I'm guessing it's story time?

I took the rock and moved it away from her a bit and sat on it, yet it is oddly comfortable knowing how rough it was.

"So? What do you want to know about the Gauntlet of Fire?"

"Ummm… That it’s on fire?” I guessed with a nervous smile, causing Ember to facepalm.

*One summarized explanation later*

"Wow… so dragons across the world must attend to the gauntlet in order to start?" I asked.

"Not really. But the sooner all dragons come, the quicker the burns stop. So far from what I've heard." Replied Ember.

I had no idea how awesome dragons are, retrieve the scepter and gain power over dragons as their ruler. I even finish eating my fish's while I was listening to Ember telling me about the Gauntlet of Fire. But this got me thinking, remembering the fight I had earlier with those two dragons is getting me worried. What will happen if one of the bad dragons obtain it? Could they become a tyrant or a megalomaniac dictator? Maybe when that time comes, I can't let that happen or else we end up as slaves. But what about Ember?

"So… are you getting the scepter?" I asked her as she looked down in thought.

"... yes. I have too. It's the only way the dragons should listen to me and take me serious when I am trying to say something important. Without it…"

"But what do you plan to do when you get the scepter?"

After asking that question, I couldn't tell if she was daydreaming or just decided she wouldn't answer, until, "I want to lead the dragons to a new path. A path that doesn't involve fighting or roughhousing at other places that could damage something important. I want us dragons to get along with other creatures around the world, like if we… were… umm… ugh what was the word? Fiends? Froonds? Frogs?"

Dragons to get along with other creatures? Does she mean…

Slaves!

"Friends?" I asked.

"Yeah. That." She said, and she looked a bit gloomy just the thought being friends.

I know I've known her for two days, but I've got a feeling that she could be a good leader. She is different than other dragons, but I believe she can lead them all to a better path. Seeing her as a leader could make a difference and I know what to do…

WE’LL BECOME DRAGON LORD!

"I know it sounds stupid and probably think that I am an idiot to believing that dragons can be f-f-frinns? Of course, we don't do that. *sigh* Just forget it. It's not like you are interested in-"

"I'll help."

"... w-wait. What?" WHAT!?

"I said 'I'll help'." I reaffirmed.

"But,... you… I thought… really!? You want to help me?"

"Sure. Your going to need someone to help you go through those tough dragons during the Gauntlet, more than one if possible. And you can try to get the scepter with much less stress." She stared at me for a bit, seeing if I'm joking which I wasn’t.

"... okay. But you better not get in my way! I'm not that defenseless so I can take care of myself."

"With that punch you gave me earlier? I believe you do." There was a slight pause after I said that, then we both ended up laughing. I looked up at the sky and see that the sun is setting, "Wow! Who knew that time flies so fast while learning the whole story about the Gauntlet?"

"I know." Ember respond looking up as well, "They should extend the hours so it feels like we have time. But, it's one of those early days so it can't be helped."

… They? What is she talking about?

"So. When does this gauntlet start?"

"The last time I was told, about a week now we are a few days short till then."

"That soon huh?" I was wondering why days ended a bit early. Maybe I'd ask at another time. "Well. Now that it's getting late, I'm about to head back to my cave." I said as I got up and stretched. I was surprised that I still could get stiffness even when I'm an alien death dragon.

"Wait!" Ember called out as I looked at her, "Why do you want to help me?" She asked.

"... To be honest, I don't know. But, I have a feeling that you could- no… can do it. A new way for the dragons. And I'm with you on it."

After that, she stared at me for a moment, wondering if she was going to say something else, "... Oookay. I'll be going then. See you around, Ember." I waved and start to fly off. I even followed down the river to get back to my cave.

Thinking back how Ember explained the Gauntlet of Fire, it made me think about what would happen if one of the dragons retrieve the scepter. It gave me chills to think about the future. But Ember, I can tell she could be a great leader. But there was another thought in my mind that had been bothering me...

What would happen if she couldn't get the scepter and I had to take it for her. What would happen at that point…?

Something Gooooood~.

AND WHAT'S WITH THIS FUCKING VOICE IN MY HEAD!?

Ember watched him fly away after she was unwilling to talk back, completely stunned by his answer. No one had ever sided with her unless they thought it could the favor of Dragon Lord Torch. Not one dragon had any real interest in her goals. This might be a great opportunity in getting the scepter with less stress. I guess I really need the help. But…

What would happen if he gets the scepter instead? What would he do with it? More importantly, how can I trust him…?

*Author's note*
What? Did you really think I'm gonna re-summarize the whole Gauntlet of Fire origins?
Apparently NOT!

Chapter 4: Know Your Frienemies

View Online

Edited by Majestickfire9

The sudden freezing temperature forced me to open my eyes, all I see is pitch black darkness. No longer do I feel the crags on the cave floor, nor heat from the near flowing lava. I am once again floating in the dark. I am fully aware that I am dreaming, but this dream is too surreal to feel like one… I put my arms around me, a touch of feeling in my hands has brought me some joy that my original body has returned, but the cold temperature is becoming a constant pain. I feel like I have been tossed in a frozen tundra; until suddenly, a blue flame appeared in front of me. The light radiated a warm temperature that caused me to greedily chase after it, but I stopped. Because this flame looks really familiar and for sure it is not the first time.

"Hello again, my pet."

It's that voice again. And it came from the blue flame as it brightens every time it speaks.

"You! What the fuck do you want!?" I said backing away from the flame, but the air gets even colder.

"Don't worry my pet. I won't do anything to you."

"Fuck you! I'm no one's fucking pet!"

"... Then would it be better if I just call you, Jake?" she said teasingly.

"... w-why are you using my real name?"

"Well it is your name, yes?"

"Y-yeah. But-"

"But you just decided to use the name Ridley instead, just because you have become that dragon and 'Jake' is dead. Think about it, if Jake really is dead, would you be here now?"

I admit, she did make a very good point. But what good is it to listen to someone… or something tell you about yourself.

"Ugh. I just can't calm myself if I'm stuck in this gawd forsaken dream. I don't want to be stuck with you if you keep toying with me! I'm not a pet what you called me! I'm a human! Or at least I was. But coming from the one who gave me new life has given me nothing but torment everytime I sleep!" I barked, but I began to shiver more as it got even colder, "... rrgghh. Why is it so fucking cold here! Why can't I just wake up! Why can't I just be at peace and rest… I don't deserve this…" I said as warm tears welled up in my eyes as I realized that I may be stuck in this unknown purgatory.

I use my arms to cover over my head, shut my eyes tight, and curl myself like a ball wishing this nightmare would end. It felt like minutes and it's still quiet, but the air is still too cold until something warm has touched my skin. I took a peek to see where the warmth came from hoping to be the cave that I'm sleeping in, but no. It is that same blue flame glowing near me. I want to get away from it, but how can I escape it just to be warm.

"... If you let me warm you up, I promise to give you some answers." It said, which almost sounds like guilt coming from her. I'm not an expert on how people behave, but it sounds that she is trying to console me.

… But dammit! Why is it working?

"... Just be near, but not too close." I answered. The flame slowly floated closer, just enough distance between us. I hope she will now give me answers like she promised, "... Who are you and why did you bring me here?"

"I am called Mystica, a… spirit if you will.”

“A… spirit?”

“Yes. And as for why, when I was visiting your world sometime ago. I was curious about you humans. There are so many, and so different. Good, bad, and mostly chaotic." I couldn’t agree more with that answer, "Until one day, I happened to run into this community where there is a large crowd of humans gathering like there is some kind of event. It turns out, this event is about a game you all played." … wait a minute. Is she talking about- "Hmm… What is that game called again? Super Strike Bobbers?"

Oh GAWD! Just hearing is making me cringe! Dammit, why the hell am I a Grammar Nazi!

"... It's called 'Super Smash Brothers'." I muttered.

"Yes! That one! I did my own research, and goodness I was impressed! The idea to put iconic fictional characters from different series to put into one game and fight to the death? It's Brilliant!" She said, excitingly. Hearing this from her makes me think she sounded like a little kid, but beginning to think she isn't a bad person makes me even more anxious, "There is one character that I am most fascinated to and he has become my favorite!"

… ugh. Do I have to ask? "Who?"

"Why Ridley of course!"

"Really? Why?"

"Well there is one thing that he does most. Commitment!" To be honest, that is the weirdest answer for the space pirate commander, "I know he has failed and died every time from that ever so bounty hunter has come by, but he always comes back." Ever so? Probably not much of a Samus fan. "There are times where he is at the brink of death to some unknown genetic sorcery, but he always finds a way to live again and keeps on trying to achieve his goal. They all think he is just some kind of mindless killing machine, but this one has somewhat of a brain."

"Okay..., but how does all of this explain why I'm here?" I don't know how she keeps talking like a nerd and all, but I'm still not awake. Dreams don't usually last this long!

"Yes yes, I am getting to that." I had to roll my eyes, "One day, I decided to roam how your human schools operate differently, until I spotted one that seems so differently than the rest. Collage, if you may. They held this, 'Smash Brothers', event at a certain location in the school. I took a look inside and so many students are inside, rowdy as ever."

Hold on, could she be the one who...

"I had to watch from the crowd and see how this tournament was played." And she's not her… "Until, I saw you who played as Ridley and no one has ever played so expertly." Um… am I getting a compliment? "So then, until the finals, you emerge victorious. And I congratulate you for your effort."

"... Thanks."

"Yes, but after you head home after your victory party, with your friend to drag, I noticed something wrong in your establishment." She is about to talk about that very moment, and I don't want to hear it.

"No!" It was silent for a moment, "I'm fully aware of what happened. I don't need to hear the whole story."

"... I understand."

"Now tell me. Why me?" After the whole rundown on what she explained during her visit, now I will know the reason. I bet it is something like what she called me before. A pet. Or a toy. Or maybe even a-

"Because it is unfair."

"... w-what?"

"For someone like you to not just be really good at games, but the goals and accomplishments that you achieved on your own. But to lose everything, taken away from you by death, is not how I wanted to see the end of you. I just want to give you another chance." She said in a sympathetic tone.

Looking back, I had a goal in mind when I was in college and was about to graduate after another year. I didn't know what to do after that, after it was all taken away from me. Not only my well built education, but also my life. How will my family feel? I was their fist they say. First son, grandson, nephew, cousin… I can't imagine how devastated they are. They loved me, and I loved them. So much.

"I don't mean that I can bring you back to your world, or try to save you from that incident. But you must understand that there are laws between universes. If I happen to give one small tap in your world, and there would be an immediate distortion in reality, and it spreads like a virus. The only way to interact or touch is the soul." explained… Mystica. Hering her explanation made me understand her actions. It… pains her to see someone who had a future ahead of them. But it was all taken away.

"I'm so helpless when I watched you perish, I could have done something, but that would make the whole situation worse. You did not deserve it." She said. "And you're right, you deserve better…"

The blue flame glowed gently, my body started to warm up as the air no longer feels frigid as it turns into a warm spring temperature. It feels great.

"I am sorry, I should have treated you better. My own stupidity has blinded me to what you are. It's because I have never seen or have met a creature like you, there is none like you in this world. I got too excited and I deeply apologise."

Well, it's about damn time…

"Yes, but can you think of something more appropriate to say than that? It's very rude!"

Oh sh-...

"Umm… sorry." I spoke.

"That's okay." She chuckled amusingly. Well, I guess this solves the whole ghostly feel, but now about this darkness.

"So, Mystica?"

"Yes?"

"Would it be alright if you turn on the-"

*BOOOM!!!*

Bitch! That scared da fuck outta me! The loud bang echoed as if something big was trying to force its way in. I don't know what is out there, but I am too paranoid to know. Dammit, why can't I have nice dreams? This is the main reason why I sleep with a blanket over my head to avoid nightmares.

"Seriously!? She found me again? I'll have to find another way to hide. *sigh* Still as stubborn after all these years." Said Mystica.

"What was that? And who is she?"

"I am sorry Jake. But time is short. We will speak again, soon."

As she said that, the blue flame began to shine bright enough to go blind.

Damn. And I was hoping to have the light on this time.

It is early in the morning, the azure dragoness, Ember, is awake, and is about to prepare a task before the Gauntlet. And that is training. And she knows what to do when it involves a huge flock of dragons fighting their way to their prize. But in her mind she won't let that get in the way, not even her father would stop her. If only she could if she wasn't bound within her father's domain, all she does is curse her father under her breath. What is important right now is that she must both train and think of a plan. But this time, she has help. Someone who sees her vision as an exception and a possibility in her future. But still, she has an opportunity, but it can be a risk. She can't trust him yet. That is why she must train to overcome one more obstacle.

"Okay. Time to get to work." She said, before exiting out her cave and flew to one spot with crags and boulders. A perfect spot to hone her strength. But suddenly her body started to burn a little, then glowed.

"*sigh* Here we go…"

Morning has come and today is just weird. Right when I woke up, I noticed the lighting in my cave is color purple. I don't remember having another light source besides the flowing magma by my walls. I rubbed my eyes with my knuckles if I am just seeing things, but I noticed my hands are glowing, hell, my entire body is glowing. I rushed outside if there is any difference with the lighting yet I'm still glowing. Did I eat something?

"This is a whole new thing." I muttered, "I don't remember seeing Ridley's body glow, hell, I don't think he does at all. And why does my body feel like I have rashes all over!?" The problem is, I don't think dragons do get rashes.

What annoying feeling! Get rid of it!

"Oh great… that voice again."

This voice in my head came out of nowhere yesterday I wasn't too sure how this happened, but from what I can tell this is going to stay for some time.

Some time? More like forever!

Damn, not even my self-minded talk can keep this creep away, just who the hell is it?

I am you. And this is my body!

… Okay this is new. AND MY BODY IS STILL ITCHING!

While I was busy scratching myself (Oh wow… did I really just say that?), I heard and felt continuous rumblings out in the distance further in the lands. Sounds like something is causing a ruckus, and it's at a different location this time. I guess there is more to explore just to see even further in the Dragonlands. I would eat before I go, but this time I want to see if there are any more of those rock gems lying around. Hopefully They left a few for me at least.

We should go see what it is. Maybe more dragons to challenge? I'd be glad to tear them apart!

"WILL YOU JUST SHUT UP!" I shouted, while holding and shaking my head, "Gawd! This is going to be a total pain with this fucker in my head. I gotta be careful how I talk to others." I then realized something, "And talking to myself is even more of a pain…"

My self-arguing ceased and I flew straight toward the source of the rumblings. Hopefully, this day could keep my mind in check without any interruptions.

"I hope Ember is around, she probably would know about this whole glowing thing. I hope this doesn't last long…"

It took me about 10 minutes to find what caused the small quakes. Some earthy smoke keeps erupting one spot then another causing some loud tremors. I swooped down as I landed smoothly, and observed the area. There are cliffs, crags, and fissures everywhere wondering if it was just an earthquake. But now that I think about it, I didn't feel the ground shake when I was at my cave so something around here is causing a ruckus. Also, I happen to see destroyed rocks and small craters around the place. Whatever was here, is not to be pissed with.

"Just what the hell is going on here?" I said silently, until the burning sensation on my scales acted up again and I start scratching, "*Rggh* Damn this!"

A sudden rock fell close to me which made me jump and I started to look around quickly to see where it came from. Another one fell behind me, this time a big one nearly crushed my tail. I looked up to see where the rocks came from and spotted another one coming over the small rocky mountain. Since there are rocks flying in one direction, this means someone is throwing them.

They dare try to stone us!? They will pay in blood for that!

Ignoring the voice in my head, I head out to see who is lobbying those rocks. I flew over the rocky mountain to see who's the dumbass blindly throwing them while avoiding the oncoming rocks. Just as I reached the top, I peeked over to see who was the culprit. And to my surprise it is none other than the blue dragoness herself, Ember, throwing large rocks and breathing fire at boulders to destroy. I can also see that she is glowing too.

"Oh, so she's the one throwing them. Helluva arm she's got." I muttered, "But she almost hit me with one, I should just warn her about-"

NO! She. Must. PAY! She will SUFFER!

For some reason, my body starts to feel differently aside from being itchy. I felt rage and malice flowing in my mind and body, a feeling much worse than raging at video games. No, this is hatred. But, I don't hate anybody so why am I feeling like this? Suddenly to my shock, my body began moving on its own like I'm on autopilot, I can barely feel the ground beneath my feet, and my vision darkened like I am half way unconscious. I see myself lifting a big rock over my head and slowly locked on to Ember as my target. But, I never want to hurt her.

NO! DON'T HURT HER!

I shouted and began to shake myself out of panic desperately trying to gain control. Seeing myself winding up was the last straw as I closed my eyes and shouted as my last resort.

She. Will. DIE!

GET THE FUCK OUT OF MY HEAD!

Suddenly, I start to feel again and the weight of the rock I'm carrying over my head. I threw the rock on one side of the mountain, hard, hid myself and began to recover on what just happened to me. I panted from both fear and stress trying to think on what was going on. I just lost myself for a moment I nearly caused assault or hell, murder, I was close to pulling the trigger. But I wasn't myself! This… thing in my head, why is it there?

"Hey! You!" a voice called out, and I know for sure who, "Come on out! You got some nerve trying to throw that rock at me!"

The only thing that gets me shaken up right now is guilt, for now it's a good thing aside from what I was feeling before. I mentaly prepare myself, and choose my word carefully. I revealed myself and gave a sheepish wave to Ember.

"Come down here!" she demanded, giving that look on her face. That is the same look that your mother looks at you when you steal cookies from a jar. I don't know how, but for some reason she has a natural hack to it. I glided down and landed in front of her, still keeping the signature composure as I faced her, "Mind telling me why you threw that rock that was supposedly about to hit me?"

I can’t tell about the voice in my head, she may think I’m crazy. I could tell her that I wasn’t planning to aim at her, but we just partnered up yesterday, and she may not fully trust me. So, what I had to do is take the initiative.

“I was over that mountain,” I pointed, “I was just exploring the area and I was suddenly bombarded by large rocks that almost crushed me. So I thought, 'Who's the dipshit that's been throwing crap at me!?', so I decided to return one to the sender. And that sender is you!" I pointed to her, and I can easily see her eyes averting side to side, "Mind telling me why you're throwing those rocks, Dipshit?"

Ember looked at Ridley with a surprised expression hearing how he can talk like that to her. No one has ever talked to her that way before. He also blames her for throwing rocks at him, but she knew it wasn't her fault.

"Well, I was in the middle of training and you just happen to pass by accident, so it's not my fault that you happen to wander around here."

"You could have hurt someone." said Ridley. In Ember's mind, that is a good reason why she is at fault, but she won't admit her mistake. She walks to a near boulder to lean on her back.

"Yeah? Well it is not my fault," Ember shrugged like she hardly cares, "if they happen to be weak, it's on them. Probably some other drake like you try to sneak up on me to not let me get the chance. Once I get that scepter, I will be the one fixing your heads then." Hearing her talk like this is making the alien space dragon more peeved. He understands what her objective is, but with that attitude she is giving is not going to make her plan easier in the future.

"Including yours?" said Ridley crossing his arms, while Ember looked at him, irritated, "With that kind of behavior you are nowhere near to get what you want. Do you really think there are just strong dragons or creatures out there are as tough as you?"

He waited for her answer as she turned her head to her left and shrugged, "They will be fine. It's not like it could kill-"

*CRUNCH*

"YOU. COULD. HAVE. KILLED. SOMEONE!"

Ridley aggressively rushed at Ember at her surprise, pinning her to the boulder, without touching her. He used his right hand just above her as his claws slowly crushing the boulder within his grip.

"You said you want to change the dragon's ways through friendship? Yet you talk about strength over mercy? That's not how it works!" calmly, he pushed himself away to give distance and spoke firmly, "Look, I get that you spend your time here for… who knows how long, but how you describe your ways does not work out there. You probably won't understand, but if you happen to meet someone that is not strong looking, you have to learn how to hold back and not jump into your brashness because of who you are. The whole world does not have a lot of strong people but show at least some humility on others who are not."

Ember looked at Ridley and gave some thought on what he said, and he was right. She has been living in the Dragonlands throughout her whole life, and knows nothing in the outside world. She even knew that ponies there are not fond of fighting territory or showing off their strength. If she really wants to put the Dragons in the right path, she must learn how to hold back. Even if they are showing off.

"You're… right." Said Ember, admittedly, "I don't know what the world is like out there. I should've thought this through before thinking about being the next dragon lord." she looked down somberly, "Maybe I am not cut out to be one…"

“Aaaand now you are just being stupid.” As Ridley said that, something inside Ember has flared her up intensely. In his mind he both regrettably and meant to say that to her. Ember slowly lifts her head, for some reason her crimson eyes start to glow, and glares at Ridley..

“... What did you just say?”

*Meanwhile*

Garble and his gang glide across the valley to find Ember to pay her back on what she did to them last time. He is planning to teach her a lesson, but his pals are having second thoughts.

“Are you sure this is a good idea, Garble?” asked Charcoal, hesitantly.

“Of course!” answered Garble, “She still has to pay after what she did!”

“But what about Torch? What happens if he found out that we attacked his daughter?” asked Fume.

“Let’s just say a stray magma rock fell on her while she wasn’t looking. That big old kaiju wouldn’t even know if he cared.”

“Well I hope your plan works, it's a shame that Backdraft and Clump were in bad shape to help us, because of that one dragon they fought.”

“I was surprised they were beaten by just one dragon!" Said Charcoal, "I mean, those two are one heck of a team, but ran away? Maybe this guy is tough.”

“Please. That’s a load of crag!" Garble said in disbelief, "There is no way that those chunk-hides could possibly run from any drake. If this dragon is so special I would like to see this one put up a fight against Em-”

*RRRRRHHHHHAAAAGGGHHH!!!*

A loud roar echoed in the rocky valley, the three drakes wondered where it came from until their answer turned into a blast of rock and explosions. They see Ember in a very rampaging rage chasing the dragon in their surprise withholding his own against her wrath.

“Calm down dammit!” he called out to her while evading and blocking Ember's flurry of attacks.

The three drakes hid and watched the dragon princess's attack furiously at the strange dragon. They were not sure how he got on her bad side, and for sure they do not want to know.

“I’LL CALM DOWN UNTIL I GET MY CLAWS ON YOU!” Roared Ember as she continuously chased the dragon down further in the valley.

“... guys.” said Garble, quietly.

“Yeah?” bothe Fume and Charcoal answered.

“Is that the dragon you guys were talking about?”

“... maybe?”

In the red drake's mind, he smiled sinisterly, “I think I have a plan.”

I had no idea that this dragoness is packing this much power despite her size. Do others really look down at her because of that? Now I am starting to understand why she wants to be dragon lord, and why she wants to prove everyone wrong.

"GOT YOU!"

Crap! I completely forgot that I was avoiding her, but she caught me in the air while I was thinking. Both of us came crashing down as we tumbled and shattered some boulders along the way. In a nutshell, it hurt so fucking much. I guess shock is a universal damage dealer.

Both of us slowly stood up from our impact. I can see Ember getting up and keeping a straight face yet I noticed how little the pain it made her. I knelt back down from a sudden sprain in my right leg. I looked back at Ember to see the glow in her eyes and body that makes her look intimidating like she went super saiyan, (pretty sure its the glow) but knowing how much I can handle will give me some edge. She began to walk slowly while giving a menacing vibe. I have to explain to her why I called her dumb, before we get into another brawl.

We will tear her apart! And feed for us!

Shut up! You don't understand what is going on here!

"Ember, listen." She continued walking as I began to limp back, "There is a good reason why I called you dumb." By surprise, she rushed at me and pinned me to the ground. I could push her away with ease, but this time I want to try something different.

"Shut up!" she shouted, "No one has ever spoken to me like that, but you of all dragons just say that in front of my face." she stomped her leg on my chest hard, and it hurt, "I thought we were allies until the gauntlet, but your stupidity ruins it all."

"But without my help," I struggled, I don't know how but her size really hides her true strength, "how will you accomplish your goal? And I only say it because you weren't seeing the picture here." seeing her face with all the rage tries to over take her, but then she asks…

"Then what!? What did I not see!?"

"Do you remember how we first met?"

Hiding behind the crags, the three drakes spied on both the princess and the strange dragon. Seeing Ember was on top pinning the purple dragon, and expecting to see what is going to happen next. And getting ready for their surprise attack.

"Wha-what's this got to do with it?" Ember asks.

"Do you normally greet other dragons like that, even if they are not from around here?" Ridley asks, feeling the pressure on his chest lessen.

"... No. Because other dragons always start fights just because I was in their territory. I sometimes start the fight because I just felt like it or I was bored. But, you were the first I met properly."

"So why didn't you attack me then?"

"I…" she gave some thought but became hesitant, "I don't know…"

NOW IS YOUR CHANCE! KILL HER NOW!

WILL YOU FUCKING SHUT UP FOR FIVE MINUTES!

Ridley's eye twitched a bit and quickly shook his head. "That's why you want to become, dragon lord." she looked at him in surprise, "Just like that, you decided to greet me with open arms and helped settle me here on this land. There were no fights, you only helped solve the issue, like how you helped me find gems that were hiding in rocks and how you showed me how dragons can eat gems. You help someone who was lost, and this was your first step."

As she heard his words, she gently stepped off, and Ridley began to sit up. Only to feel the stinging pain in his, so he shook it off.

"You said, 'you were not cut out to be dragon lord', I called you dumb because of it." she looked down in shame reflecting on what she said, "I only just helped to remind you how you will have a big impact in your goal. That is why I want to help you. To help guide you, and remind you of your mistakes to make them better." Ember instinctively held her left arm, and looked at me.

"You really think I can become, dragon lord?" She asks, giving that look. (You know, the 'do I look pretty look'.)

Damn. I didn't know she looked that cute.

"Y-yeah." He looked one side, trying not to stare at her too much. "But just know, like how you help and greet me. You can do the same with others. Big or small. They will know how great a leader you really are." Ember took a deep breath and smiled.

"You're right. You're totally right." she said as she offered her claw to help me up, "I'm… sorry for lashing out… and all."

Ridley appreciated the offer, but to keep an image of who he is, he just stood up on his own with a few sharp stings in his chest, "It's fine. And I'm sorry for calling you dumb."

He looks down at her, once again with an awkward silence, and goes with an honest question to break the ice, "So. Do other dragons think you are weak because of your size?"

"Y-yeah."

"That makes sense." I said, impressed, "I am amazed at how strong you are despite your size. You really are amazing."

Ember looked at Ridley in shock. Hearing it seemed alien, but she had never been praised by anyone before. To her, it almost sounds nice.

"Uhh… y-yeah. T-thanks." Ember answered as she fidgeted a little. "I… I'm sorry… for my… actions."

Could have said, about hurting me, but I'll take it.

"Again, I'm sorry too." He smiled, "You know, with all this fighting, one of us would have been dead."

"One of us?" Ember raised her brow, "I think you were the one who's almost dead."

"Yeah? Well, I was going easy on you."

Actually, she would fucking kill me!

"Yeah right! I would have totally had you beat if you weren't running away!"

"I wasn't running," I was. "I was just… uhh… testing your stuff. Yeah. You did okay." He said.

"Test my- what do you mean okay?"

"Your aim was way off." he deadpanned.

"WHAT! It was off because you keep avoiding my fire breaths! I would be better if you…"

Ember stopped confusingly as she saw Ridley laughing out of nowhere. She begins to see this as a mock, but as he stops…

"Heh heh. I'm sorry. You are just too fun to tease. But hey, I needed that kind of spar so thanks." Ember really didn't think how he could joke at something after they fought. She is not sure how, but this dragon is someone she could get along.

"No problem." she said, as she socked his left arm.

"Oww! What was that for?"

"Payback."

They both stared at each other a bit until they both began to laugh at their own antics. Unknown to them, three teenage drakes spied and wondered how and why are they getting along.

"Huh? What's going on?" asked Garble.

"Why are they not fighting anymore?" asked Fume.

"Are they laughing?" asked Charcoal.

All three drakes are confused and not sure how to react to the outcome from the battle they were spectating. They have never seen how one dragon behaves to the other in a nonviolent manner.

"They don't look like they are screaming at each other." said Fume.

"And I thought things were getting interesting as she pinned him to the ground." said Charcoal.

"Ugh. I know what this is." said Garble, in disgust.

"You do?" both said.

"They are both being all buddy buddy, kinda like how those stinkin' ponies get along. All that friendship and stuff."

Charcoal and Fume looked at each other and began to wonder if Garble was serious.

"Yeah. That whole friend thing or whatever seems pretty icky to me. I wouldn't want to get near anyone involving that."

"But not us…"

"... right?"

Both Charcoal and Fume, almost understood what Garble was talking about, but they believe how he says it is irrelevant as how they are as a group.

"Oh! No! That's different! You guys are my pals, we don't do all the frilly stuff the ponies do. We do what we dragons do!"

The other two drakes are even more confused at his explanation, and wonder what 'dragons do'.

"And that is…?" They both asked.

"... L-let's just get down there and mess with them!" shouted Garble, as he glided his way as his 'pals' followed behind to the princess and stranger.

Ember and Ridley are having a fun conversation about their early roughhousing, until they heard some flapping and looked at who it was. Ridley spotted the three drakes each with their unique respective colors. He even wondered if some dragons here really are multicolored. Ember on the other hand, is having an irrational mood as she spotted who it is.

"Well well well." began Garble in mock, "If it isn't the Little Princess."

"Rrrgh. What do you want, Garble?" muttered Ember.

"Just came to see how you've been up too. Gotta make sure our princess isn't getting herself into trouble."

In Ridley's perspective, he can easily tell that they are just stuck up teenagers. He remembered those days how he used to live like one back when he was human. Out of his thought, he looked at the young red drake who was still mocking her in some annoyance.

"- you don't need your daddy to kiss your booboo?" he continued. At this point, Ember looks like she was about to explode, but Ridley decides to step in and end this childish behavior.

"I think that's enough." He said.

"Or what?"

"You look like you haven't eaten for months." said Fume.

"Are you going to shut us up or else you'll eat us?" said Charcoal.

"I'm saying you are all acting like children, bullying is something I don't like." said Ridley, "Just because you flaunt your ego doesn't mean you can pick on someone."

"Then make me bone head!" Garble walked up and shoved, Ridley.

"*sigh*" he nodded his head negatively, "Look, I don't want any trouble."

"Like what you did to Clump and Backdraft?" said Fume.

"You gonna mess us up like them?" said Charcoal, "We don't go down easy like those fat flanks." They all continued to push him until he's at his patience, until the voice in his head began to rage.

They have no idea what they are provoking. I think it is time that I teach these brats a lesson.

No! I just need to-

Silence! Your way is far from reason to these three. I will just take over and show you how to deal against some… vexatious teenagers.

W-what… what are you-

"Ha! He's not even fighting back." said Garble, "I don't know how he defeated Clump and Backdraft but he is just wea-ACK!" Garble's claw was being crushed by Ridley, while having the sadistic grin on his face. "DON'T JUST STAND THERE! HELP ME!"

He called out as his two friends rushed to them, until Ridley lifted the red drake and swung him at his friends and released him as they flew to a nearby boulder. Both were at daze and shocked to see this boney dragon with such surprising strength, but this won't stop them as they begin to retaliate.

"*rrggh* Okay you're strong," Garble recovered, while him and his friends stood up, "but are you tough? Charcoal! Fume! Flank him!"

Three drakes fly in the air at a triangular position and inhale their breaths and spat their strong stream of fire at the space pirate commander, causing an explosion by their combined power. Ember, who is watching from the side, knows she won't interfere when it involves Ridley. She saw his strength the other day and she knows what he is capable of. But knowing Garble and his gang, they may have the upper hand in numbers.

"Ha! He just took it!" chant Garble, "I knew he couldn't move away in time. That's what he gets trying to mess with us."

"Yeah! I knew he was just a fluke!" said Fume.

"Who knew he was just showing off his strong side!" said Charcoal, "That bone head didn't stand a chance!"

Garble looked at Ember to boast his result, "You see that, Ember! Your boney friend is nothing but fried… uhh… what are you looking at?" He questioned seeing that Ember is looking at someone in the sky.

"Your mistake." she replied.

*woosh*

"Mistake? Did you think we missed?"

*woosh*

"Yes. But I should tell you one thing."

"What?"

"You're all alone…"

A deep hissing voice came from behind the red drake as he turned and looked in shock as he saw his two friends limped in his grasp and badly wounded.

"Wha-what! How did you…"

"You were too busy boasting at her that you didn't realize that I went to pave some land around here. And your friends were a big help."

"Y-y-y-you BASTARD!"

Garble rushed at the space dragon in blind rage as Ridley knows what it's to come. He dropped the two teenage drakes that were in his claws and immediately rushed towards the red drake at high speed. Just fast enough that to Garble's fear he is already to his face, until he is grabbed by the face as his body is now dragged down to the ground creating a crater. Ember, who is watching from the side, is beginning to see that something is off about Ridley's tone and behavior that she realized all too well what it is. She must stop this or else he will make more damage if this keeps up.

"You have lacked discipline," he said, letting go of Garble's head and looking below him, "no training, no manners. You lot called yourselves strong? You three couldn't even handle one dragon yet look at you now."

"Ridley!" called Ember, coming from behind, "I think that is enough." she placed her left claw on his back, "They all learned their lesson. So calm down."

*TWACK!*

"I SAY WHEN IT… Is… enough…"

… What. The. Fuck. Did. You. Do!

She was interfering, it is her fault that-

YOU FUCKING ASSHOLE!!!

*something breaks*

W-W-WHAT!?

Ridley, now realizing what he did, he saw Ember who was knocked back at a large boulder leaving a large crack behind her. Ember stood up, clutching her arm, and looking back at him with eyes of worry.

"I… I…"

"Ridley, wait! It's not your fau-"

"I'M SORRY!"

With that, Ridley took off in the air and headed to the direction where his cave lies. Ember stared at the direction where he flew, slowly disappearing in the distance, with concern. She knew that it was not his intention to harm her, seeing his face told her that. With that scene she saw how Ridley behaved, she knew well that there are certain dragons that can be blinded by a curse that some dragons can't control over.

Foul Pride…

. . .

In Garble's view, he was in shock. He had no idea what he just provoked and it took down both of his friends and him. The strength he felt from the stranger had him surprised as well as his speed. He couldn't believe it but he admits that he was underestimated by his appearance that hides his strength. Yet another thing in mind is that he lectured him and humiliated him. An action he will not let go.

"You have no idea what you are up against. Wait until Torch hears about this, he too would like to teach you a lesson." He said as he stood up, and flew away to the dragon lord's den.

"... Did he just leave?" Croaked Fume.

"Yeah… he did…" moaned Charcoal.

"Some friend he is…"

"You can say that again…"

Ridley returns to his land only to fall on his claws and knees and begin to remember what he has done. All the actions he did today was nothing compared to what he did at the pond. He realized that this is something that made him lose control against his will. He can't think what to explain or define about his actions, not after what he did to Ember.

"I can't believe it." he muttered, "I can't believe I did that. Why didn't I stop myself? I hurt her because of it. Just what the fuck is going on with me!" He clenched his head with his claws until the voice echoed his head again.

You should have let me finish.

YOU!

If it weren't for that blue drake I would have given a message they will surely remember.

"YOU FUCKING SHUT UP! This wouldn't happen if you just-"

I AM MAKING A POINT TO THOSE WEAKLINGS!

"YOU HURT EMBER YOU DERANGED PILLOCK!" he shouted, "Because of you, it makes me look like a bad guy!"

Aren't we already one?

Just as he said that, he made a valid point. He walks to a nearby small pond and looks at his reflection, replaying in his mind with the discussion in his head, thinking what he should believe what he is. But then he thought back when he had a chat with Mystica, gave a real answer.

"... you're right. I am one. But, I am still me, and I won't let myself be blinded to avoid hurting anyone else."

*thc* How annoying. You keep telling yourself that, but you will soon see why you will be needing me.

"And I will be waiting for it. I'm not sure when, but I will try to prepare myself for it."

And with that, the voice went silent as Ridley grinned a bit. He thought about how he should fight against the violent urges that he has done and quickly thought of a similar solution to control himself.

Hmm… Maybe I should try to strengthen my mentality. Like how Ryu tries to suppress the Satsui no Hado. I'm not sure if it will work… or better yet, I don't know if it will work, but I just gotta try. Heh. Reincarnated to another world and I am already cursed. Scary, but exciting. What the fuck is wrong me…

He shook his head in amusement, until his stomach gave a loud growl.

"Ah shit! I haven't eaten the whole day! Ugh. I didn't check to find more gems, but I am not going to hog my stash now. Guess I'll take a quick trip to the pond and get some fish. I'm starting to crave some now."

Ridley flew in the air and followed the nearby river to retrace his desired location.

"... How should I apologise to Ember? I got to think of a way to make up for what I did." sharp stings suddenly envelop his body and glows brighter, causing him to nearly crash, "Dammit! WHY THE FUCK AM I STILL ITCHING!!!"

Chapter 5: Prepare for the Endeavor

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Edit by Hotel_Chicken

"WHAT! WHAT DID YOU SAY!?" The Lord of all Dragons demanded.

"I'm telling you Lord Torch! It was that one dragon that defeated me and harmed Ember while he was on a rampage!" said Garble, knowing it was a lie. Both Fume and Charcoal are at his side, all standing before the giant Dragon Lord.

"I CHOSE YOU TO PROTECT EMBER BECAUSE OF YOUR SKILLS. YOU HAD TWO OTHERS TO HELP YOU, AND YOU WERE ALL DEFEATED BECAUSE OF ONE DRAGON!?"

"Y-yes my lord." He admitted.

"What can we do?" asked Charcoal, with some pain and weariness from the other day, "Not only was he strong, but he is also fast. I don't even want to think of going up against him again."

"HMPH! AND YOU DARE TO COME FACE ME INSTEAD OF DEALING WITH THE PROBLEM!" The three teen drakes flinched at his anger, "BUT SEEING YOU AT THE STATE YOU ARE NOW, I SEE THIS ONE WAS FORMIDABLE FOR YOU." curious, Torch made his demand, "IF WHAT YOU SAY IS TRUE ABOUT HIM, I ORDER YOU TO BRING HIM HERE TO ME. I WOULD LIKE TO SEE THIS ONE AFTER HAVING THE NERVE TO HARM MY DAUGHTER."

"Y-yes Lord Torch." Garble turned to make his way, hating the command that his soon discharged ruler gave him. He still needs to wait until the gauntlet of fire until he gets what he wants. Right as he was about to leave, Fume decided to say something that bothers him.

"Umm, Dragon Lord, sir." He said nervously, "Just to be sure, and not trying to displease you or anything… but what if he doesn't want to come?"

"HMM? WHAT WAS THAT?" Torched leaned forward knowing what he heard, "WHAT IF HE. DOESN'T. WANT. TO COME?" He then quickly grabbed the purple drake in his giant claws, making him go stiff as he brought him close to his giant face, then answered with a growl.

"MAKE HIM."

"... cool."

...

Just my fucking luck. The itching won't come off and I had it up to my head with this shit! I still don't know how I got this or how to stop it, I pray to God if this is not permanent.

I barely got any sleep the night before because of it, and it’s been driving me insane. Whatever sleep I did get was thankfully free of that spirit… Goddess? Whatever the hell Mystica is, so yippie I guess. The one silver lining to being stuck in another world as an anorexic glow in the dark baby Godzilla with wings that has a voice in its head is that I didn’t have a spirit goddess prance through my dreams. Spectacular… Oh, and to add onto the pile of shit wrong with my life, a possibly broken friendship is now on that list. Something so mundane by comparison to all the other crap is now the crux of my day.

Being at the pond helps a little with the itching a little, so at least that was one problem that was temporarily solved. It’s still there, mind you, it just doesn’t feel like I want to tear off every scale and chuck them into the sea. So, my next course of action was trying to keep my calm, find out a way to get the psycho voice out of my head, and hope that I didn’t burn down a bridge with the one creature I’m on relatively friendly terms with.

Good luck with that. If it works. Hehehe…

The voice said in my head, already mocking me. If only I can shut this guy up if I want to, but still, I'm in a new world with countless possibilities, there has to be something. But, training will have to come another day. Why? Well, that’s because the world decided, “Screw your training montage of meditation, answer the asshat calling you!”.

"Hey Bonehead!"

That same red drake from yesterday, along with his friends, came close to my location and landed at a safe distance away from me. Smart of him since he knows what I am capable of. All three of them were also glowing, so I guess it's happening to every dragon. Well, at least that meant it was normal, so I could probably talk to Ember about it if I managed to fix my shit with her.

"I know you're listening!" He shouted, "As commanded, Dragon Lord Torch has summoned you to his nest."

Wait. As in THE Dragon Lord? Has summoned me? I mean, it would be an honor, but if it's coming from, red riding hood then I'm not buying it. So, I keep ignoring him. I walked to the same tilting rock by the pond so I could use that spot and try meditating.

"Hey! I said you have been summoned by the Dragon Lord! Can't you understand? It's important!"

I flew up to the top and took my seat in a meditate posture. I don't put my hands together because I can tell it's somewhat irrelevant in my opinion, but relaxing my arms on my knees is enough. I also mind my tail as I coil it on my lap, just to be sure no one tries to yank it. That would have sucked if I fell. Now that I'm ready, I close my eyes, maintain my posture the best I can, and breathe steadily… And then I realize that I’ve never really meditated before, so I just wing it and try to think of waves. It works in the movies after all. So why not ‘Fantasy Land’?

"What is he doing?" whispered Charcoal.

"Is he… sleeping?" said Fume.

"Ugh! You know what! I got an idea." Garble flew to a nearby boulder that is almost taller than him, as his goons followed, "Like what Torch said, 'If we can't tell him," he lifts the boulder almost with ease, "then we make him!'"

After minutes of deep breathing and near sleep, suddenly the strangest feeling has enveloped my body as if it were a warm heart beat every time I breathe. So, I focused more. Of all the theories that I read and watch has been put to the test, and so far how my body is feeling, it's getting close to my analysis. I may be a novice at this, but I can be one hell of a genius if I know how to pull it off. Now, since this is what pulsing feels like, I need to envision what I want to see. Maybe color blue?

Curious. It's possible that who I am has some natural perks.

And with that, the darkened vision from my eyelids has revealed the world in a blue landform. I keep my breathing steadily and concentrating, not letting my emotions get the better of me. As the vision darkens it pulses back showing the land again. It appears that every time I breathe the vision resonates like a sonar. I tried to envision a different color to green, and just like that the land is all green. I tried other colors like red and yellow, until I switched to purple. I feel as if something big is coming on my way, it's getting closer. Instinctively using my tail, I somehow knew when and where it was going to hit as it's heading towards me.

THERE!

*CRACK*

The impact I felt from my tail is all too real that I actually smashed a rock. A big one to be exact, for sure they don't fly, and I have a pretty good idea where it came from.

"It seems you assholes still haven't learned your lesson. I guess I'll have to-"

Huh…?

And they just flew off.

They will pay!

The urging feeling of rage swelling inside me is erupting. I fell short in training, and could not control these urges, but I had no choice but to chase after them. Those drakes better not be lying if the dragon lord did summon me. Hopefully, them throwing me that boulder shows that they’re serious. If not…

There will be blood!

… I hate that I can agree with that.

...

The three drakes are on pursuit as they race to the dragon lord’s den as they are chased by an angry space dragon. Two of them are in panic while one is determined to get to their goal before he gets them.

"Hah… I don't think we are going to make it!"

"Yes we are! Fly faster!"

"I'm trying! I can't go any faster!"

Garble quickly looks behind and sees the purple stranger getting closer, fast. Garble looks forward and sees the giant cave and just enough time to get there before they get caught.

"We're here! Come on! Let's get- ACK!"

As they entered the cave, all three drakes suddenly smashed together and tumbled deeper in the big cave. Ridley slows down and lands as he slowly walks towards them… menacingly.

"You three, gave me a good reason why I should pummel your dry ass hides. Now tell me, what makes you think throwing a boulder at me, while I was meditating, a good idea?"

They will pay!

He flexed his claws as he prepared to strike, until…

THEY WILL-

"YOU!"

...die?

He stops at the sound of a loud and deep voice. Regaining his control, he slowly looked up, seeing from a large horde, to a large tail, then a skyscraper size body, and then the coup de gras, his fucking huge head. The sight of it screams king if that is what he believes, and ironically for being the deadliest space dragon, fear.

"ARE YOU THAT DRAGON THAT HARMED MY DAUGHTER?" He spoke as he demanded an answer.

In Ridley's mind, he has to come up with an answer quickly or else who knows what this kaiju size dragon might do. So, he answered as calmly:

"... Now THAT'S a dragon!" He pointed.

…

Outside of the dragon lord cave, Ember, who is currently sitting at the edge of the cliff, gave a frustrated sigh. Her father gave her another order that she now won't be leaving within her and Torch's den. This is all because she got injured by another dragon, she protested that it was not a big deal, but like always he still refuses to listen. With her father now keeping a close watch, it is now less likely that she will ever retrieve the scepter.

In an ear shot, she heard some drakes flying by in distress. Looking over, she sees the same trio from yesterday and sees that they are being chased by Ridley. Knowing them, they would not be too stupid enough to anger him so, plus knowing that he has a trigger makes her worry. Seeing where they are flying to, she already knew what those three drakes are up to, and it wasn't just to anger him.

"*Uggh* I hope father doesn't go berserk like last time…" growled Ember, as she glides down to her father's den.

…

In Ridley's mind, he is constantly scolding himself with the reply he made. He admits, this is an impressive size for a dragon, probably the biggest by far. But still, it was not the right comment to say about him. It is possible that he is the Dragon Lord.

"FOOL!" he shouted, "I DEMAND AN ANSWER, DID YOU ATTACKED AND HARMED MY DAUGHTER!?"

Ridley was confused about what he meant.

"Umm. I don't recall attacking your daughter." answered Ridley.

"I. DRAGON LORD TORCH. DEMAND THAT YOU ANSWER TRUTHFULLY!" he roared as the whole cave trembled.

If he had skin, goosebumps will easily be seen if the dragon lord’s voice gets any louder. The alien drake is still confused about his demand. And starts to wonder why his voice sounds familiar.

Oh please let something happen. I do NOT want to die... again.

"Father!" shouted Ember, quickly flying in front of the titans face as he gave a surprised expression.

Ridley was relieved that she was here, but realized what she said.

Wait… FATHER!?

"EMBER! IT IS GOOD THAT YOU CAME. NOW TELL ME, IS THIS THE DRAKE THAT ATTACKED YOU?"

Hold on! That's her father!?

"... Yes he did." she said, "But, I asked him to do it." Ridley was confused about her answer for a moment, until he looked back from yesterday and knew that she was not entirely wrong.

Well, she did throw boulders at me, so yeah…

Confused, Torch had to ask, "WHY WOULD YOU ASK SUCH A THING? I TOLD YOU TO NOT GET INVOLVED WITH OTHER DRAGONS!"

"Yeah? Well this one is different. He held back." seeing how she was covering for me, I guess I should punch in some truth.

"HELD BACK? NO OTHER DRAGON HAS EVER HELD BACK, LOOK WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO YOU!"

"If I may." Ridley began, as they both looked at him, "It is true that I held back, but thanks to those three idiots over there," he pointed at Garble and his lackeys, "assuming that I was attacking her. So, they just came at me as I defend myself, but in doing so, Ember was caught in the crossfire."

"Oh come on!" exclaimed Garble, "Dragon Lord Torch! You can't seriously believe this bone rotted cragadile's story!"

"You continued to shove me, again and again." growled Ridley.

Torch stared hard at Ridley, trying to see through his lie, then he turned to the three delinquents to be sure.

"IS IT TRUE THAT YOU THREE STARTED A FIGHT AND MY DAUGHTER GOT IN YOUR WAY?" he asks.

"But, we were… I was just…" Garble tries to explain, but cannot find an excuse in time.

"ANSWER TRUTHFULLY!" At his order, a wave of authority has caused the three drakes to flinch and drop their heads shamefully.

"... yes." They all said.

Torch growled in irritation, "YOUR DUTIES HAVE BEEN REVOKED, YOU ARE NO LONGER TO WATCH OVER MY DAUGHTER." Garble growed under his breath, "LEAVE MY SIGHT!" With that, the three drakes exited the den.

"NOW." He looked at Ridley, "SINCE THAT ISSUE HAS RESOLVED, LEAVE MY CAVE AT ONCE." He then looked at Ember, "YOU ARE TO REMAIN IN YOUR DEN AS HE," points at me, "MAKES SURE OF YOUR CARE, UNTIL THE GAUNTLET ENDS!"

"WHAT!?" exclaimed Ember, "Father you can't do this to me!"

"THAT IS FINAL!" he shouts, as the cave rumbled, "NOW LEAVE." as he said that, he adjusted himself on his horde and in a minute, he started to snore.

Sheesh! No wonder he was uptight.

NOW IT'S OUR CHANCE! KILL HIM!

Fuck that! You choked when he spoke and you went silent during our conversation. Wherever the fuck your bravado went isn't my concern, because it didn't suddenly take my sanity with it.

With that, the voice in his head went silent, allowing him to wear a victorious smile. That smile faded when he heard Ember roar as she stormed out of the cave, prompting Ridley to quickly follow.

Maybe I should leave her… But, that dragon lord did tell me to take care of her… Take the initiative to talk to a friend, or piss off Godzilla’s cousin?... Fuck it, I can mend a friendship better than a severed arm.

...

After leaving the cave, I found Ember, sitting at the edge of the summit, and below it is another cave but small which I assume is hers. I landed on the summit, slowly walked closer and stopped at a fair distance between her, until she spoke.

"You don't have to keep an eye on me." she grumbled, "You can just go and do whatever it is you were doing."

"... You know, my dad is kinda like yours with my sister. Granted, my dad isn't the size of a mountain, but I think he handles my sister the same way your dad treats you. He always tells her to not do this, not do that, or the best part, not go near him."

"Right!? Ember turned, "That's the same situation I'm in right now!"

"But, he does all this just because he loves her." Ember stopped as she heard what I said. I then sat at the side of the peak leaving my legs hanging and looked up at the sky, "Yes, my sister does complain or yell at my dad that she hates him, but to put it bluntly, what he's doing is because he doesn't want to see her grow up. That is the time that he no longer calls her 'my little girl' anymore."

It has been a minute or so, I wondered if Ember does understand my explanation. It would be too sad if she didn't.

"I know that," she began, "but he keeps locking me inside a box and I still can't find that darn relic that my father is hiding."

"What relic?"

"You see this ring?" She showed me her right claw with a gold ring on it, "This has a magik bound, and my father has the source that keeps me sitting next to him."

HOLD THE FUCK ON! DID SHE SAY MAGIK!?

"If I can't find that relic soon, I will never be able to enter the gauntlet."

Thinking about magic aside, Ember proved a point that her father kept her on a small leash. This has gone too far for how a father should let their own daughter have much less freedom. I'm surprised how social she is with me given how long she had to put up with Torch. Dragon Lord or not, this is no way to treat their child. How do I know much of this? My mom always hogs the TV watching Lifetime…

"Have you tried taking it off?" I asked.

"Too many times, and tried many different ways." said Ember, hopelessly.

"Well… Have you tried biting it off?"

"Tried that, and it still won't come off."

"What!? I thought we could chew diamonds."

"Yeah. But this has magik. There is no point trying." she says as she slumps at the edge of the cliff.

"Well…" I thought about what I was going to say, but denied it, "ah, nevermind."

"What?" Ember turned to me, "If you got something in mind, just say it."

"Umm…" This is going to be weird… "Do you think I can try?"

"What, taking it off? Sorry, but-"

"No. I mean…" And awkward… "biting it off." I said while scratching behind my head, "You know what? Forget I said that! It sounded-" my whole body suddenly glowed and itch again, "Agh! Gawd dammit!"

"... Not here."

Is what I think she said, as she grabbed my left claw, dragging me, and jumped off the cliff with her. I nearly shit myself until I quickly remembered that I have gifted appendages on my back, I glided as Ember guided me to the lower base of the cliff we jumped off and a cave is in view. From what I can guess, it's Ember's. As we land in front of it, she still holds my claw and pulls me in, but I stopped out of hesitation. Ember looked at me confused on why I stopped.

"Is something wrong?" she asked.

"Umm… I hope I'm not intruding." I said, sounding a bit pathetic.

"Just get in!"

With that, she yanked me in.

Holy Shit! Like any male anime protagonist would say, 'I can't believe I'm in a girls room!'.

It was dark at first at the entrance, but there is light at the other end. Arriving at the source, the cave inside is illuminated with gems and gold piled alongside with different varieties of treasure. I am in shock and awe seeing how much treasure here for one dragon. I even thought about Ember's father of how much treasure he has, I probably didn't pay attention to my surroundings when I was too focused on the gigantic drake. From what I can remember, the cave and the stalactites are glinting in yellowish color. And from what I assume that he hides his treasure behind his forearms. Or is it forelegs? I bet he has mountains upon mountains of treasures that even anyone who seeks it will cry happy.

But enough of that, Ember sat on a fancy looking gold chest and looked at me.

"Well?" she said.

"Uh… Nice place you got?"

"Thanks. But I'm not talking about that." She sticks out her right claw, "Take it off."

I know she wanted to remove that ring so badly, but I never thought she would ask me to do it.

Plus, why the hell does it sound… ‘dirty’.

"Uhh… you sure?"

"Positive."

"... okay." I gently held her claw and inspected the ring, "Just a heads up. I may need to use my tongue to try to line my teeth."

She looked at me for a sec, until her head turned to her left, "... Just make it quick."

"Alright. Here goes." Ember readied herself as I began to remove the ring. It looks like the ring can be removed easily seeing how much space is around her claw, but I can see that when I tried pulling it off, it was bathed in a lavender light that made it stick to her claw.

So it's true! Magic. I can't believe I am in a world that has freakin magik!

Putting my excitement on the side, I begin to open my mouth a little and try to wedge the ring in one of my teeth. I can't really see where so I had to use the tip of my tongue to position the ring right. I even felt Ember flinch as I touched her, I will have to end this quickly for her. Eventually, I got it in place, but I felt it slip off before I started gnawing it off. I looked at the ring again, still no sign of coming off so I kept trying it again. I don't know how long I was trying to remove it, but I can tell Ember is being a bit impatient.

"Ugh. Are you done yet?" She huffed, "My neck is cramping, and your saliva is covering my claws."

"I'm trying! But, this stupid thing keeps slipping off." I said, still getting the ring in place.

"Agh! Just stop!" She yanked her claw, but the ring finally yet pulled my tooth with her.

"Ack!" Immediately, I quickly snapped my mouth closed making a loud audible chomp.

"AH!" Ember screamed. I start to panic that I might have snapped her claw off.

"Oh shit! I'm sorry!" Just as my mouth opened, Ember quickly hugged her claw. I want to see if she is alright, but I think it would be a mistake.

I hurt her… again…

"I didn't… I didn't mean- UGK!"

"THANK YOU!" cried Ember, who suddenly tackled me, hugging me with strength, and nearly choking me to death. Eventually, she let me go, "Look! It came off."

She showed her right claw close to my face, I was expecting that there would be blood, but thankfully there wasn't and she didn't lose a claw. Instead, she now lost something else.

Oh shit! The ring is off.

"I'm free! I'm finally fr- MMPH!" with that I completely shut her up by holding her still and covering her mouth. All for a good reason.

"Shut up!" I whispered, making a quick step outside, craning my neck (surprisingly long enough), and checked all around to see if someone was spying. After a few seconds, I went back in, with Ember still struggling in my arms.

"Listen. I know you're happy, but we have to keep this quiet. Who knows who is listening out there, but we need to keep this a secret until the gauntlet." As I let go, she suddenly bit my claw, "OW! WHAT THE HELL!?"

"You got some nerve trying to hold me like that," she said, but made a valid point. Now that I think about it, I do look like I was about to do something forbidden. "But, you're right. We should keep this quiet now that I won't have trouble leaving the den." She then looked at me curiously, "I wonder, how did you just bite it off?" getting close, she grabbed my top and bottom jaw as she was inspecting them, "Your teeth look normal, yet they are sharp as a swords tip. But, what makes it so to break the spell?"

"Uhh…" Come on, think! "Family secret?" … That is probably the stupidest thing to come up with.

"Hm… Well if you say so." IT WORKED!? "I mean, if I had something that could potentially threaten magik, I would keep it shut."

"Yeah. I guess." I was about to bring up the plan, until I remembered to say something important, "Hey look, about yesterday. I didn't know what came over me. And… I'm sorry… that I hurt you."

Ember looked at me, confused but then realized what I mean, "Don't worry about it. It wasn't your fault to begin with, and it comes naturally when it happens. So, it's alright."

Wow, she really is the best, "Thanks," and now the task at hand, "Since now that you are out of your father’s shackles, what's the plan?"

"Right. Well we have two problems. One, my dad will keep me here until the gauntlet is over. And two, Garble will now be part of it." Ah. Yes. The ‘red riot’. "He will most likely be able to go through the whole thing with so much effort. I can't even imagine what he will do when he grabs the scepter…"

Fate is worse than death, I assume…

"Well, that just means we can't let him have the chance. Even if his lackeys would help him, I doubt they would be much of a nuisance."

"Maybe so, but I bet he will bring bigger friends in exchange for high reward. It's quite possible they could ruin everything."

From what she is saying, it's possible that 'Red Riot' would hire other dragons to sabotage the gauntlet and our plan. If he gets the scepter, he might pay them handsomely which is dubious coming from that scumbag.

"Okay. That is one problem to deal with, so what about your dad? There has to be a way for you to sneak in the gauntlet."

"Ugh. I wish." She went to her hoard and sat irritable, "My father expects me to be at his side as he gives a presentation, for sure he will keep a close eye on me, and will tell me to go home after." Keeping a close leash huh? What I wonder is how old she is, "*sigh* I wish there is a way to make myself invisible or something."

I start to think in my own thoughts about trying to help Ember. I know for a fact that there is magic here, but what is the point now if I don't know any spells, nor if I possess magic at all? I couldn't help but look around in the cave to help me think, until I spotted something on one side of the cave that could be useful.

"Hey. What is that?" I pointed.

"Huh?" She looked at the object I was pointing at, "Oh. That. That is just some rusty armor I found a while back. It's meant for ponies but I don't see any use for it."

I looked at the silver armor and an idea struck in my head.

"Why don't you wear this?"

"Are you serious!? That won't even fit me! Yet I will look stupid if they see me wear that."

I looked at the armor, then at Ember as I checked her out (not in a perv way). What caught my attention is the amount of gold she has. That, is when the thought struck.

"Why don't we coat it?"

"What do you mean?" She wondered.

"I can help reshape the armor to your size and coat the platings to gold."

Ember stares at me for a short second, "And how do you plan to do that?"

I was about to reply, but I just remembered something very important, "Uh… well I could help melting and molding the metal, but I got a problem with my plasma breath."

"... Impossible. Hardly any dragon is capable of melting metal with just-” Ember’s eyes widened, “Wait. DID YOU SAY PLASMA!?" she shouted, in shock.

"Uh. Yeah?"

"No way! I never heard or seen a dragon with plasma breath before!" She said excitingly, "That will definitely melt the armor."

"Yeah, but." and again more lies, "On my way here, I somehow got choked up mid flight and for some reason I wasn't able to use my breath at the time."

"What? That can't be possible. Let me see." Ember immediately jumped off her horde, came to me, and to my surprise forcefully opened my mouth. "Hm. Odd. I don't see your igniter."

"Ha haa?(The what?)" I tried to say.

"There is a little flame that acts like a flint and our breaths that we breathe out activates our flame." She explained, giving me some interesting info about dragon’s breath. She then let go of my jaws, "Show me your flame."

"Umm." Crap. Now she expects me to even though I don't know how! "Well…"

"Well what?"

"W-won't that make a mess?"

"So? My place is already a mess?" Easy for you to say. This is a gold mine here. "Just aim at that wall. I plan to have more space, so just go for it."

"... sure." Well, better late than never.

Now it is time that I practice using my plasma breath. I took a deep breath and calmly exhaled as I am trying not to get too excited. I'm still unsure how it works so I will give it my all. I tried blowing for a start, but it was only just air and how can I blow if I don't have lips. Next, I tried huffing my lungs and yet air again. Then, I inhaled through my nostrils and breathed air. With all those attempts, I feel like a weirdo blowing air for no reason. In embarrassment, I looked at Ember with a serious look.

"Hm… try charging it."

"Charging? Like build up warmth in my throat?"

"Yes! Now do it!"

It actually makes sense, I have seen Ridley do it in the games, and he does charge it before he unleashes his breath. I start by building breath, like how we exhale in our hands when it's cold, and keeping the heat in. I also try to imagine the energy built in my throat as I inhale some air.

"RELEASE IT NOW!"

Immediately, I shouted out as a yellow-orange beam appeared in the middle of my view and straight towards the cave wall. On impact, the wall shattered and the space inside all hot and melting like the earth itself returned to it once melted.

"Wow. Impressive." Whispered Ember. She went to her horde and began to scoop as much gold and put it in a fancy looking cauldron, "Use this, we can melt the gold. Don't worry about the cauldron, it's magik and it won't destroy too easily."

"Alright. Let me remove the straps and belts from the armor so it won't ruin when you equip it. Then, I will work on resizing it and reattach the belts and leather."

And with that we both started working on the armor for Ember. Conveniently, my claws and strength can bend iron really easy as I peel and tear the belts, clasps, and leather easily. I can probably make a makeshift mini spike so I can reattach them when I'm done. I even limit how I use my breath to melt the metals surprisingly quick. Thankfully, the liquid gold doesn't burn me so it makes this a bit easier to mold the shape. As for molding, cupping my claws wasn't an option since it goes through, so I quickly run to the hole that I blasted and mold a wide stone bowl before it cools off. Apparently, it worked, and I got started on molding the metal. It may take a few days for normal smiths to forge, but as I do it I can get it done within minutes. It's all thanks to me from my grip strength and breath to make this possible. I even used some weapons that Ember collected as tools. It's like how they say, 'weapons are tools of destruction'.

Did I mention I was an excellent clay artist? It's a hobby of mine, it may not look too neat in metal, but it's at least it won't matter much. I don't know how to work around metals but at least I understand a bit on how it works. I was too focused on working the metals and I didn't realize that Ember came back with a huge bowl of water. I'm glad she brought water in order to cool the metal.

It's been quite some time, and I already began to mold the armor. It almost feels like I am kneading a tough clay when it takes its shape. I did it as fast as I could and took my time to get the shape and edges right. I even found out that my tail is an excellent crafting tool. With its sharp edge and a strong tip, it makes this job a bit easier, plus I even use a rapier to make holes for the nailing. The armor is nearly done, but as I was working on the helmet, my body began to glow bright and a tingling and burning sensation enveloped my body. This is the last fucking straw to put up with this, but it did remind me to ask Ember what this glowing and itching is. So, I stopped for a bit.

"Hey Ember." I said, while scratching.

"Yeah?" She answered, while scratching.

"I don't know what is the deal with this glow all over my body, and I know it's happening to all of you. But, can you please explain to me what the hell it is? I'm getting irritated as hell with this!"

"That's because it is the call to all dragons in the world to come and enter the gauntlet. Once everydrake is present, the whole glow and burns will stop and the gauntlet will start."

Great. Now I have to wait until… how long?

"Uhh… when is it again?" I stopped on making the helmet and asked her.

"Hmm…" Ember took a moment to think, until she gave a shocked expression, "Ah crag!" She put her claw on her head.

I couldn't hear, "What?"

She slowly looked towards me, and said,

...

"Tomorrow…"

And with that said, I spent the entire night finishing the last few touches with the armor. It fit her perfectly, and I was surprised that I nailed her size. But, I didn't have time to hear her thanks as I made a dash out of her den. I could have said goodnight, but I'm sure she would understand. I barely had any sleep that night and the rashes even got worse as well.

This will be one hell of an event.

Fuck me…

*Meanwhile*

In the Dragon Lord's den, Torch has become restless. The gauntlet is tomorrow, pondering about the last preparations for the gauntlet, until he came up with something that he feared most.

"I have no choice," he said, as he dug in his horde and took out an odd shaped flute that has an avian skull shape, "You will soon realize, my daughter. By becoming Dragon Lord, they face consequences that are far beyond you…"

…

*Elsewhere*

Just a few miles away from the Baltimare Bay, a ship is setting course to the Dragonlands. There are 3 three passengers, and one of them is a young small dragon named, Spike, who has a similar condition to the other dragon's bodies as they glow. The other two are different from the drake, there are two ponies with one who is white, with a deep violet mane, and a spiral horn on her head, a unicorn named, Rarity. And the other being lavender color with a navy-violet mane and two color streaks to add, a spiral horn on her head, and feathered wings on her back. An alicorn named, Twilight Sparkle.

"*Argggh* I really wish this ends after we get there! And hopefully I still hope they don't burn me into a crisp." Said Spike, who is still scratching his body as it glows.

"Relax, Spike. Remember, me and Rarity will watch over you while you are there." Said Twilight.

"And, not being fully immersed in research of dragons while we protect poor Spikey Wikey. Right, Twilight?" Said Rarity, reminding her friend.

"Yes, Rarity. Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." Said Twilight, as she did a gesture ending with putting her hoof on her eye.

"I'm glad you two are there for me. And speaking of, what did you two bring to disguise?" Asked Spike.

"Oh! Well it is no difficult task, but might as well make up some simplicities along with some variants." Said Rarity, as she revealed the disguises to hide in the dragonlands. But, Spike has a bad feeling about it.

"... oh no."

What plans does Torch have prepared for the gauntlet? Will Ember become Dragon Lord then? Will Ridley get enough sleep by then? And who are these newcomers? Find out in the next chapter, the two part Gauntlet of Fire begins!

Chapter 6: The Gauntlet (Part 1)

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Edited by stealthysaphiro

…

"...ak…"

I think I must be dreaming again, all I see is complete darkness. I am in this damn black void…....again.

"...Ja…"

"...Jake…"

I hear something in the void. It's muffled, but I can barely hear what it is.

"…Jake… he… e…"

It sounds like its calling me, and the feminine voice made me realize that it was Mystica's. But, something doesn't seem right.

"Ja… can… ou… ere… me…"

Usually, Mystica will pop out and make an entrance, but why does it sound distant? Did something happen? Am I dead again? I hope not.

"Jake… answer me… hear me!"

Her voice gets louder and clearer, yet she sounds panicked. But why? It is not like I care for her well being, but I will hear her out.

"Yeah, I hear you."

"Oh thank, Faust!" she said, "Jake, listen! I won't have much time talking to you, but-"

*BOOM!*

A loud bang echoed through the void. It was so loud that I can't believe that I am still asleep. For whatever Mystica has to say, it better be good.

"What the hell was that!?" I shouted.

"Jake! Whatever you do, do not let the voice inside you take control! You will lose your reason and yourself if you let-"

*BOOM!*

That bang became even louder and my body shook as I felt a sound wave hitting me. The sight of the void now has a streak of white cracks starting to form all over the void. Something out there definitely wants in, and it's beginning to scare me even more.

"Mystica! What the fuck is going on!"

"Jake! Please! I may not be able to speak to you for some time, but I beg you! Be strong! Don't lose to yourself! And whatever you do, DO NOT MENTION MY NAME!"

*SHATTER!*

"We will meet again!"

As the void shatters, light shines through. So bright that it is blinding to see, but this is usually a sign that I am supposed to wake up. What will happen if this keeps going?

"I have found you!" a voice called out, and it sounded feminine and regal.

Suddenly, a silhouette appeared from the light, I can't seem to make out its shape as it gets closer. Suddenly, wings appeared which made me feel more anxious and confused. What is she? And what does she want?

"You…" she spoke, "What are you?"

I didn't reply.

"ANSWER ME!" she said in a loud voice, and that became my turning point.

Okay, force eject!

"No! Wait! I didn't mean- How did you get‐"

Ridley POV, first-person

I sprung up hard and accidentally hit my head on the cave ceiling. It hurt, but as masochistic as it sounds, I actually needed the pain. I tried to calm myself by breathing after the dream I just had. It was terrifying yet it felt very surreal in a scary way.

"Rgggh… I don't know when I'll ever get a good night's sleep…" I groaned as I rubbed my face, "I don't think I will ever fuckin' sleep at all."

*ROAR!!*

"What the hell!?"

I heard roars, apparently more than one echoes in my cave. I rushed to look outside and as the glare of the sun faded, I witnessed something that many people who are fans of fantasies that involve dragons or in general, will be insanely thrilled. Dragons of many different kinds and colors are migrating above my head. A rush of excitement and awe has filled me as I watch these fantastic beasts fly (No pun intended). But something important has come to mind. The Gauntlet of Fire is today. And to get things ready, I have to fly to Ember's Cave in order to get her ready for our plan.

"Well… today is gonna be one helluva day. And I am soo fucking pumped!"

Minding the air traffic, I quickly began heading to Ember's cave at high speed.

That was probably the worst flight traffic I ever had! So many of those flying retards are just itching to have a go at me. Some are just assholes saying that I was in the way and some others just push me around. And you know what I did? I told them 'to go flock themselves' and flipped them off. I'm sure they don't understood that gesture, but it is kinda funny of them not knowing what it means. Speaking of picking fights, usually the voice in my head will blurt out something like, 'Kill them!' or 'Pay in Blood!'. I'm not sure why it didn't say anything though, but I can almost tell that it might be plotting something. I may not be too sure how I can handle my own mentality so I might as well keep it that way. For now.

Soon enough, I arrived at Ember's cave and called out to her, "Hey Ember! It's me!" After a few seconds, she responded, "Come in." I entered her cave, ready to set our plan in motion.

*2 Hours Later, Ridley, third-person POV*

Dragons from all over the world have gathered around the massive crater where they will meet the dragon lord in due time. In the center of the crater is a very wide plateau, with rocky peaks on one side making a fitting throne for the giant dragon lord. Ridley, who is perched on a high enough peak, outside the crater to see and marvel at the sight of the many dragons. As his eyes wander all over, the one thing that caught his attention is a very small purple dragon with green spines who is sitting on a rock. He wondered why a small little dragon was summoned here, but remembered that the glow on all bodies of dragon and summoning is fairly obvious.

Suddenly, that red riot, along with his lackeys, appeared and went up to the little drake. The red one knocked the small drake off his rock and sat on it. Ridley was about to go and tell them to back off, but stopped when the dragon lord appeared and sat on his massive throne. He can see Ember flying next to his head. Her being a princess must also be why she was attending alongside the draconic ruler. He wondered this massive dragon could be her father.

In summary, Ridley was not too amused of why the Dragon Lord had to make a big deal of his ego. Even when he demands it, Ridley doesn't understand why. Seeing as Torch is a giant dragon can be intimidating, but being Dragon Lord must have a key role to the dragon's behavior. Ridley, was getting a bit annoyed of his ego, but had his attention drawn to the little drake from time to time. Even he heard a sneeze which did not come from him, he believed.

As Torch makes the announcement for the gauntlet he takes out the Bloodstone Scepter, held at the tip of his claws, and throws it in the volcano at the distance over the ocean. As the scepter drops in the volcano, a magical pulse erupted, and every dragon, including Ridley, was hit by it, their bodies no longer glowing. From what Torch said, it was his design and its dangerous, which worried him how Ember would survive it.

*Ridley POV, first-person*

I hope Ember can do it.

I was pretty glad that Torch would no longer be Lord, his ego is as big as he is and does not sound too idealistic. Hopefully Ember can make some major changes around here.

"Alright time to get ready and-"

"AND WHERE DO YOU THINK YOU ARE GOING LITTLE ONE!?"

"Little!? He doesn't mean..." I looked at the little drake from earlier.

"Oh, um, I was just, uh, going home" he said nervously.

"NO ONE GETS TO LEAVE UNLESS I SAY YOU CAN!"

Oh come ON! Is he seriously being a dick to the little guy!?

"Dad, just look at him." Said Ember, as she came down and defended him. I was pretty glad that she took that step, "He's too little. Besides, he doesn't even want to compete. Just let him be."

"*Heh-heh* HE IS PRETTY TINY." Said Torch, "I COULD EASILY SQUASH HIM WITH MY PINKY CLAW. *Heh-heh*" The little guy laughed nervously. "THAT WASN'T A JOKE. IT WAS A FACT. WHEN I WANT YOU TO LAUGH, I SAY 'BE AMUSED!'"

A joke… or a threat. This guy is being a major dick.

"Yeah! What good is a little pipsqueak like him going to be as Dragon Lord!?" The red riot from before laughed. "Having little ponies sing and dance all through the Dragonlands? That just sounds ridiculous."

Not gonna lie, but that does sound cringey. I can't believe I agree with this shmuck.

"Knock it off, Garble." Said Ember, "Just leave him alone!"

"Or what!? You think you being little miss princess can do anything?" I think its time for me to shut him up. "And do you think defending a weak little dragon like him would make you look big and tough? And speaking of big, I don't see your so-called dragon mate here. After Torch made him watch over you, I bet he probably left and not want to deal with you anymore. I'm sure he's-"

"Right behind you." I growled, as I loomed over him.

Nailed it! I always wanted to use Spy's line.

He froze and slowly turned around to look at me. "Oh… um. I was, um, just-"

"Leaving?"

He growled as I finished his sentence, "... *rgh* Yeah." He was about to go before he eyed the small drake in disgust and flew elsewhere.

"*sigh* I don't know why every time I run into him, he is always being a dick to everyone."

"*GASP* LANGUAGE!" I heard a voice shout out, a lady's voice to be exact. I turned to the source, but all I saw was just the little drake next to the rock.

"Um, ahem, sorry. My voice choked." He said.

… Okay little guy. I don't know you much, but I can easily smell bullshit coming from you.

Wait… that's gross.

"MAYBE MY DAUGHTER IS RIGHT," says Torch. "THIS LITTLE ONE WILL NOT COMPETE. SO I RELEASE YOU."

"*sigh* Thank you." Said the little drake. "And thank you." He said to Ember, doing a finger gun gesture. Cringing in thought, he began leaving with the rock while he looked at me nervously.

Ember rolled her eyes and looked at me. I winked my eye twice as she understood the meaning and flew to the coast past her father. Knowing what might happen, I wanted to have a small chat with the little dude. I startled him with my tail, slamming it into the ground in front of him. I turned to him and began walking closer as he backed up against his rock.

But I already knew....it was a rock.

*Spike POV, third-person*

Spike's heart was rapidly beating and he was sweating as this intimidating looking dragon approached him. He may have been bullied by dragons before, but for some reason this dragon terrified him. He wasn't sure what he wanted, but he hoped that he doesn't find out about his two friends hiding in the fake rock. The dragon leaned in close between his face and the rock.

"Kid." He began, "I may be a dragon, but I'm not as dumb as they are. I already know this rock you have is a fake." Spike's heart skipped a beat, the dragon then looked at the holes on the rock, but did not bother looking in, "Don't worry. Your secret's safe with me," he said casually, "but I want something in return. When this is over, would you mind giving me a tour of where your from? Please?" He stood back up, and stepped away from Spike.

"I'm sorry for the scare there." Spike was confused, as were his friends still hiding in the fake rock. Why was this one dragon apologetic of his actions.

"YOU THERE!" Called Torch, "TAKE EMBER BACK, AND MAKE SURE SHE IS IN HER CAVE UNTIL THE GAUNTLET ENDS."

"*tch* I have a name you know." He grumbled, "Yes, Sir!"

As he flew off in Ember's direction, one thought came into Spike's mind. Since when did dragons start being… terrifying?

*Ridley POV, first-person*

I followed Ember back to her cave and quickly rushed inside. Ember rushed to her gold armor that I made for her and helped put it on. I remembered something important to give Ember before she puts on the armor.

"Ember. Stand over here real quick, I have something for you to put on."

"What is it?" She wondered, until I pulled out a bronze jar, "Hey! Is that mine?" I ignored her and poured green dust on my palm and started applying on Ember's body.

"He-hey! What do you think you're doi-"

"Your dad may still recognize your scales, since the armor didn't fully cover most of your bodies and wings. So I crushed some green gems and stone to make dust for coating. It's to hide your scales." I explained as I kept applying dust, then to her wings.

"Okay. But, warn me next time when you do this. It was…..sudden." She said.... embarrassed!?

Me and my stupid ass for not asking…..why do I feel my face getting hot?

After putting dust on her, we began putting her armor on. It took some time to get it on, but once we finished, she was ready. To be honest, she actually looks pretty cool in it.

"Okay." I said, "You're good to go. You ready?"

"Always." Said Ember, giving a serious confident answer. She put on her helmet and we both snuck our way to the shore while avoiding Torch's sight.

Once we got there, all the dragons were ready at the edge of the cliffside. It appears they had the same idea of wearing armor. I looked back at Ember, only to see her trembling a bit.

"Hey. You good?" I asked.

"I have been planning this my whole life." She said, "Now that I'm here, I feel like I'm making a mistake…like I may lose my chance."

She is now being open about herself, and I understand what she is feeling. I guess it's time for some pep-talk. "The only time you run out of chances is when you stop taking them."

"Wh-what?"

"You not only planned, but you also built your strength until the day has come. You have a chance at winning this if you believe in yourself. If you don't, then you wasted your chance. So, give yourself some credit for all you've done so far." I ended, giving a pat on her shoulder.

I see her looking down and closing her eyes for a moment knowing she is reflecting the words I gave her. "I don't know what spell you are spitting out," Spell?, "but it worked. You are one weird dragon." She smiled, and brought her fist forward. "Heh. Don't die on me." I said, as I returned a fist to her.

*Ridley POV, third-person*

Ridley was hiding as he saw Ember walking in the crowd. He kept glancing at Torch, hoping he did not recognize his daughter. Everything was set until the little drake appeared and decided to participate. He wondered why he decided to join until Torch began giving a short explanation about the gauntlet. Once he was done, Torch finished off with a flaming roar, at which point all dragons began to fly off to the 'Flame-cano' as they say. He saw Ember flying off with the rest of the dragons and wished her luck, when suddenly, he heard a scream from the cliffside while "Garble", as he now knew the red riot was called, laughed as he flew off. Realizing what he did, Ridley rushed to the edge and looked down to see if the small drake was alright. To his relief, he was, and had begun swimming across the sea.

"YOU!" Ridley spun to see Torch, then noticed he wasn't hiding, "I THOUGHT I TOLD YOU TO KEEP AN EYE ON MY DAUGHTER!" he growled.

"I uhh… was about to come and tell you that,... she cried herself to sleep." Shit! I don't think he will buy that…

"HMM… JUST AS I SUSPECTED. I KNEW MY DAUGHTER WAS WEAK WILLED. I'M SURE SHE HAS NOW REALIZED NOW JUST HOW PATHETIC AND INSIGNIFICANT SHE IS. IT IS FOR THE BEST."

"... I guess." growled Ridley.

How dare he talk down to his daughter like that! What a fucking prick!

"SO. YOU WON'T GO TO COMPETE?"

"They are miles ahead of me. There is no way I can catch up."

"WELL, THAT IS TOO BAD." Torch then pulled something out of his armor and gave it to Ridley, "HERE."

Ridley inspected the skull looking item on his claw and asked, "What is it?"

"JUST BLOW IT FOR ME. AS HARD AS YOU CAN. IT… CALMS ME." Ridley was unsure what he means, but if it is something he likes hearing, then it would be in his interest to comply.

".....Okay." Ridley was unsure what kind of instrument it is, but might as well hear what this foreign sound is. He took a big deep breath and blew it. The sound of it is almost if a dinosaur is roaring in mix with a strange raptor call.

"IT IS NOW ONLY A MATTER OF TIME FOR THEIR ULTIMATE TEST."

After he finished, he realized it was no ordinary instrument, but a call.

"Wait, what kind of instrument is this?" asked Ridley. But, he received no response. "Hey! What the hell is this?" He asked Torch again.

"... YOU WILL KNOW WHEN THE TIME COMES." said Torch. Ridley was not having an ominous answer.

"No! I need to know what you made me call!" He came close to Torchs' face.

"SILENCE! I HAVE NO NEED FOR YOUR QUARREL! LEAVE MY SIGHT AT ONCE!"

"So you gonna kick me out like you did your daughter!?"

"... WHAT DID YOU SAY!?"

"You are her father! You are her blood! She is strong and intelligent. Yet you shot her down just because of her size!"

"I HAD TO, BECAUSE I DON'T WANT TO SEE HER SUFFER THE CONSEQUENCES!"

"THEN WHAT IS IT!? THIS!?" Ridley showed the instrument at the bridge of Torch's snout.

"YES! THEY WILL UNDERSTAND HOW GRUESOME IT IS TO BE DRAGON LORD! FACING A ROC AND COMING OUT ALIVE IS WHAT MADE ME DRAGON LORD! AND I WOULD DO IT AGAIN IF I HAVE TO!"

"... Wh… what did you just say?" Ridley was in fear and disbelief, "A… Roc?"

Why… why… doesn't he know his daughter would rebel against him if he knows her stubbornness?

"You… you…"

I have to find Ember and get her out of there!

"I HAVE NO NEED TO WORRY FOR HER STUBBORNNESS. THAT IS WHY I HAVE THE BOUND RING PLACED ON HER. SHE WILL NEVER LEAVE UNLESS I- *ACK!*"

A sudden strong hit to the face has staggered the former dragon lord. He looked at his attacker in shock.

"DID… DID YOU JUST-"

"THAT PIECE OF SHIT RING IS GONE THANKS TO ME! AND RIGHT NOW SHE IS THERE" he pointed at Flame-cano, "ABOUT TO BE DRAGON LORD, AND YOU MADE ME SUMMON SOMETHING THAT IS A BANE TO ALL DRAGONS!" he flew to his eyes, "YOU SENT DEATH TO YOUR OWN DAUGHTER!!!"

Torch was in disbelief. To think something that would keep his daughter close, and would avoid the cost of being dragon lord, was now shattered. And now, a monster he summoned is on its way to the Dragonlands.

"Why? … Why did you...? And how did-"

"You know what!? FUCK YOU!" shouted Ridley as he made a desperate beeline to the Flame-cano, hoping to make it there in time.

Shit-shit-shit… SHIT!!

Of course, he must overcome the obstacles ahead of him.

*Meanwhile - Unknown POV*

In a distant land and at the highest mountain peak, an ancient creature is in deep slumber. Until, a sound echoed making a familiar call that it has known ages ago. Its bright amber eyes opened, beginning to move slowly walking out of its nest, and sees the view of the vast snow and the distant world beyond. It spreads its wings giving some flaps to stretch as it focuses on the direction where all dragons live. Finally, it gave a loud caw as it began to fly towards the dragonlands, as it was eager for its long awaited meal.

The king is ready for a feast…...

*Back in the Dragonlands - Ridley POV, first-person*

I cannot believe this. I cannot believe why that poor excuse of a father would call something so dangerous that could be the end of us. Back in my world, I did look up and read a huge variety of mythical creatures. I was really interested in how most of them are very similar based on different regions. But, now? I got a feeling that they now exist in this world. One of them, a Roc, a very large mythical beast is as large as-

"OW FUCK!"

Okay, long story short, Rocs are huge ass birds with a huge ass appetite. Get it? Got it? Good!

Right now I need to deal with these rock throwing assholes for interrupting my thoughts. I threw the boulders back and continued to go find Ember. The scariest thing I experienced were those sea monsters that pop out of the ocean and start shooting water upwards like a Vegas fountain. If I hadn't sped up before, they would barely have hit my tail. Right now, I am entering the volcano, and to be honest, it fucking sucked.

"*ACK!* *OW* OOF* FUCK! *AAAAH* SHIT!"

Okay, this next one is a literal pain in the dick. There are crags popping out from the sides and they crush you with ease. I was hesitant before going straight through, but then I realized that I can crush boulders with ease. Right now I caught up with the rest of the dragons that were having trouble getting through. Me? I just smashed my way through, but some did get me and crushed me. Thank gawd I have a tough body, and no wonder Ridley is so tough, except when it comes to missiles and Plasma Beams.

Anyway, I reached a maze cave which looks like you can easily get lost here. I could see some dragons having difficulty finding their way, and so far, I have not seen Ember yet. She probably is ahead of me, which means she is close to the scepter. I better hurry before she grabs it. I start flying around caves to skim the openings and apparently none can be the path to the goal. That is until I hear some grunts and slams from a certain path. I quickly flew in to see what was going on, and lo and behold, I found the place, and Ember is here too, but that red riot is fighting against her. I quickly flew over to help until Ember hopped over and threw Red at me causing me to catch him upside down.

"*Oof* What the!"

I thought of something that made me smile hard.

"This is your 'Last Ride'!" I said in a deep voice. I then maneuvered myself by flying upwards while holding onto him. Once there was enough height, I let gravity take over. I can hear Garble (*snerk* still a pretty stupid name) screaming as I held him above my head as we are about to hit the ground. To be honest, I didn't want to over due my strength and pop his head off. So, I held back enough to knock him out.

*SLAM!*

"OOOOHHHHHhhhh"

I hear the audience, which were the other dragons coming in, reacted as they saw the impact. Looking at him, with his eyes bulging and spinning in a comical way, was kinda freaking me out because I have never seen this happen in front of me before. Well, at least he is out of the way, now I just have to stop Ember from getting the scepter.

I stopped.

You have got to be shitting me…

I looked at the altar where the scepter was, only now it was in the claws of the small purple drake from before. A crimson energy pulsed from the scepter as he raised it over his head. I never would have believed that this little guy was able to go through everything, let alone be able to reach the end. I have no idea what his goal was or what his motives are, but now he has the scepter…

"Hail, Dragon Lord Spike." Ember announced as she bowed to him, along with other dragons.

Must… bow…

Wait. Now it talks? But, why does it sound submissive? And why do I feel the need to bow?

I watched the little drake, no, 'Spike' coming down to meet up with Ember. Even the red riot walked past me to my surprise as he limped to the two. He bowed as well.

Damn! He still walks after that?

"Now go home. And give every dragon you see on the way a hug. And don't tell them why." Spike ordered.

"... What!?" I exclaimed.

"Awww! But that's super embarrassing!"

"I command you to do it!"

"Grrrr… I can't believe this…" Garble growled, as he started giving every dragon a hug. Few hugs later, I was next. He looked at me nervously.

"We both are not on good terms, so I think it's best you skip me. No?" I said.

"R-right." He then hugged the next dragon behind me.

I couldn't believe how holding a scepter would have such authority. Magic is so weird in this world.

"... Oh shit! I forgot! Em‐… ber?" I was about to warn Ember, until I saw the little- erm… Spike, hugging her. She was hesitant but seemingly accepting the gesture.

"Aww."

What the! Those crags just moved.

I noticed the movement, and I immediately grabbed and lifted the rocks.

*GASP!*

At first, I was wondering how his friends got here, but now it is the perfect time to know who they are, and what a surprise it is.

"... Umm… why are colored horses here?"

"HOW DARE YOU!" shouted the White Horse.

"Woah! Okay they talk." I said in surprise.

"Wait! Don't hurt them!" said Spike, "They are my friends!"

Wait… Hold on…

"So, your…"

"Ponies." answer the violet one, "And yes, we are his friends."

Okay, this took a new turn. At first, I thought at least there were humans, but it turns out they are… ponies. Why do I get the feeling this is somewhat familiar?

"... Alright." Well, might as well go with the flow. BUT IMPORTANT MATTER NOW!!!

"Ember! I need to tell-"

… and she's gone.

"She went out a while ago." said Spike, "Along with the scepter in hand."

"Wait WHAT! OH NO NO NO NO! I have to go back! She's in danger! No! Everyone in the dragonlands will be in danger!"

"What do you mean?" Asked purple pony. (Wait… horn and wings?)

"Apparently, Torch planned a final test for anyone who became dragon lord! And he tricked me by summoning a roc!"

"*GASP!* WHAT!?" she screamed.

"Then we gotta warn her! Fast!" said Spike

"No! You three go as far away as you can." I said. I took off immediately, but stopped for a moment.

Going back means that I have to go through that chaos again, and I'm not going to go through that again. So, I decided to make my own exit. I charged my breath quickly, and once it was enough, I aimed upwards, and released my plasma breath. The blast caused enough damage for me to see an opening, so I flew towards it and smashed my way out.

*General POV, third-person*

"This is terrible!" said Spike, "But, what is a 'roc'?"

"Spike! Rocs are very large predatory birds that can hunt almost anything." explained Twilight, "And worst of all, they favored dragons!"

"Then we must do something before that roc gets here!"

"Absolutely not, Spike!" said Rarity, "It is far too dangerous and I can't bare let you to get gobbled up."

"Rarity, may be right, Spike." said Twilight, "We don't want to lose you to something that we can't do."

Spike was fuming, "Well, Ember just became my friend today, and I can't abandon her. And even if it means that you two are gonna run, I won't!"

Both Twilight and Rarity gave a moment to think about Spikes determination.

"... Alright." said Twilight, "We may not do much, but we will help."

"The dragon sure are brutish ruffians," began Rarity, "but they don't deserve to be bird food. So, I might as well help. Only for you Spike."

Spike was happy that both his dear friends are staying to help . He hopped on her back as they both teleport out and help their new dragon friend.

To be continued...

Dragonland's Fiercest and Fairest

by JeromyTG2

Prologue

Chapter 1: Reborn

Chapter 2: Flying High Past Cloud 9

Chapter 3: First Impression is at Beast

Chapter 4: Know Your Frienemies

Chapter 5: Prepare for the Endeavor

Chapter 6: The Gauntlet (Part 1)