A New Era

This page belongs to Rain, do not edit. Do not steal, copy or heavily reference. Thank you.
-Note that this takes place seventy five years after the events of book fifteen.- 
Hey there! It’s Rain here, and thanks to anyone who reads my fanfic! :3 Also some of the chapters are much longer than others, sorry I just like making long chapters (Some of them on this wiki are so SHORT! O-O)
Significant Changes:
* All the current queens have changed. SkyWings: Maroon SeaWings: Seafoam IceWings: Mink (Not the original Mink, Snowfall’s granddaughter /Mink died so she was named after Mink/) MudWings: Landslide SandWings: Sandstorm RainWings/NightWings: Hibiscus (Rain/Night) LeafWings: Floral SilkWings: Ulysses HiveWings: Stinger 
* Trips to Pantala are rather common
* The HiveWings and the LeafSilk kingdom are still trying to make up
* There was a short war between the SkyWings and SeaWings, that was caused by the SeaWings
* Animuses are getting more restrained and watched over ( due to Darkstalker )
* It’s not common to find another dragon killing another, trials are held if they do
* The Summer Palace got rebuilt into the Peace Palace, a palace open to the skies that other tribes can visit
* Jade Mountain is new and improved, the original founders names are carved into the bronze gong
* All of Clay’s generation is gone (includes Sundew, Luna, Winter…)
That’s all, hope you enjoy!
== Part One: A Spark Among the Ashes ==
== Prologue ==
-Vallaretta
Three Years Ago…
Gloomy rain pattered the sides of the slick castle walls. Vallaretta sighed as thunder rumbled up ahead. 
“Hey, Val, we’ve got a tutoring lesson with Sir Bronze. Apparently it’s history.” Her older sister, Ruby, popped her head into the large bedroom. 
Intricate stone arches adorned the door, and Ruby was impatiently tapping her claws on the stone.
“Okay Ruby, I’m coming,” Vallaretta rolled her eyes as she slowly got up from her spot, “I bet Crimson will hold the rest of us up AGAIN.” Her red claws made a little click click sound as she stepped out of the room, going down the corridor. 
The warm, orange glow from the candles lit up Ruby’s dark orange face as she walked alongside her sister. It was silent for a moment, the only disturbance the pattering of the rain uselessly hitting the walls. The hallway leading to the study tower was surprisingly sparse, the odd candle here and there. 
Vallaretta’s velvet-like scales reflected a reddish light onto the hard stone floor, giving an almost menacing aura as the sisters walked on by. 
“You better not challenge mother before I do.” Ruby said stoutly. A simple statement, with a hidden threat behind it. She glanced at Vallaretta, a little too quickly.
”You’re worried, aren’t you?” The younger princess replied, avoiding the obvious bait. She was smart, and knew Ruby was after the throne.
”Me? Worried? As if you could defeat me in a challenge,” Her sister scoffed, “And anyways, you and I are only three. We have plenty of time to discuss this topic.” 
True, they were young, but you can never start planning too young. That was Vallaretta’s opinion, at least. The two dragonets reached the end the corridor, and a set of wooden double doors looked over them. Ruby pulled a heaving door open and they slipped inside. A cozy room lined with full-length windows was the sight they were greeted with. Inside, two other red-orange dragonets were reading scrolls, and an older, irritated dark red SkyWing was pacing around. 
“There you are! Wait…” The adult SkyWing expectantly looked down the dreary hallway with disappointment in his eyes. “Where. Is. Crimson?”
”Late. Again.” Vallaretta answered flatly, sliding in beside on of her younger sisters. “Hi.”
Honey looked up, shuffling around on the silky blue blankets. “Hey.”
The doors opened with a bang, which startled them. A young, reddish pink dragonet scurried inside, panting as she flopped miserably down on some green pillows. 
“You’re late. Oh well, let’s get on with the lesson.” Sir Bronze sighed and adjusted his glasses. 
The five princesses straightened up. It was history, and Sir Bronze was always good at explaining things.
”We are learning about the notorious villains in our past. One significant one to the SkyWings, was the Ex-Queen Scarlet.” 
Vallaretta’s strange purple eyes widened. She was famous among the tribe, and was her great-grandmother.
”Scarlet began her reign of terror by picking off her siblings one by one, then eventually challanged her mother. Once she had her claws on the throne, Scarlet opened up an arena for prisoners of war, to fight to the death at her wish. Many died. Then she allied with Burn, and the dragonet prophecy was told. Scarlet fought battles herself, and even found a firescales dragonet, Peril. She was then greatly wounded by a RainWing dragonet from the prophecy know as Queen Glory.” Sir Bronze shuddered.
”Scarlet was then taken to Burn’s stronghold, where she was kept captive then set free by her champion, Peril. Scarlet then disappeared into the depths of the continent, and stayed put until after the war ended. Then she acted, brutally attacking the palace and seized her throne back, threatening your mother’s father, Prince Cliff. He managed to escape and set Ruby free from her prison, who then issued a challenge upon her mother. Scarlet lost, and her reign of terror was finally over.” 
Vallaretta sighed. Why did Scarlet have to die. It was all Ruby’s fault. Scarlet was just taking back her rightful throne!
“Why did Ruby take the throne when Scarlet was away? What was so bad about the Queen?” Vallaretta asked.
Honey turned to her, with an ‘are you serious’ expression on her golden orange scales. 
“She killed like, thousands of dragons? Duh?”
Vallaretta scowled. Scarlet was just starting her life! Weren’t her subjects her property?
Her head popped up, and she smiled. Well then. I’ll just have to finish what she started.
== Chapter One ==
-Snow
“And that is how Queen Scarlet told us to never, ever, let the wrong queen sit on the throne.” The boring IceWing droned. 
It was a cool afternoon and Snow was half asleep, listening to her history teacher. Owl was fidgeting beside her with a skeptical look on her face.
”It’s not like they ever had a right queen, those stuck-up smoke breathers.” She snickered, leaning in close.
Snow rolled her strange red eyes. The SkyWings are so dramatic.
”Miss Owl, Miss Snow, no talking in my class, thank you!” The teacher shouted, stalking around to their ice shelves. 
The other blue and white dragonets giggled. It was always funny when the weird, cursed -looking dragonet got in trouble. And her geeky little friend. Snow scowled, and stuck out her tongue. It was childish, she knew, but it was the worst she could do.
They lived on the lower circle of the Ice Kingdom, close to the palace but not the wealthiest region. There, the schools were fairly well educated and parents obsessed over their dragonets successfully earring places in the palace, and potentially getting them an upgrade.
”Apologies, sir.” Owl mumbled, and slunk back towards the back of the room. It was bare and scarcely decorated, giving a dreary aura.
Snow stammered her apologies and followed her friend. The stares continued after her, but vanished quickly as she turned back around.
***
”Boy that was TORTURE.” Snow complained as she trudged through the cold. The class had ended and she really needed a break from the teacher.
Other dragonets fanned out, spreading out and away from the school. Then finally, they were alone.
Owl nodded, her brown and grey freckles even dimmer in the light. It was almost dusk, and the sun was painting pink and orange streaks across the sky.
There was an awkward silence, the crunching of the snowy slush beneath their claws the only sound.
”So, how’s your brother going?” Owl asked, glancing awkwardly at her friend.
”He’s… Going alright. Still struggling in Possibility, life is hard.” Snow answered, staring distantly at the approaching ice building.
Storm was a resilient dragon, and didn’t like getting pushed over. Though, this sometimes turned into aggression, which later causes him to attack others. It was a problem, he and Snow knew, but there wasn’t anything they could do about it.
Owl’s crystal-like eyes darkened as they reached the bottom of the structure. It was a massive chunk of ice carved into rooms stacked on top of each other. 
“Well, I guess this is… goodbye.” Snow murmured, quietly slipping into her residence. 
She heard Owl mutter her goodbyes, then sadly trot down to her home.
Snow sighed, and began to creep into her room. The silent living space was decorated with a simple polar bear rug and a few ice shelfs. No one was home. 
A note lay on the table, and she read it aloud.
”Snow. We have received your disappointing results and are not happy. You are doing worse than your brother was. If you keep this up, we’ll send you with him and learn the true hardships of the world.” Snow winced, and ripped it up into little pieces. 
Her claws were shaking and she stood there for a long moment, shocked and still. Storm had been failing all his classes, and had even downright tried to argue with one of the queen’s most trusted advisors. He didn’t stop, and was eventually sent to Possibility to learn how to behave himself. Snow loved her brother, but didn’t want to… she wasn’t ready…
Don’t panic. Do. Not. Panic. You’ll be fine, Snow. Just get your sales up and continue your next story. 
Snow took in deep, long breaths then entered her room. It was full of little collages and colorful, little notes pinned up on the frigid walls. There was an open notebook on her ‘bed’, with frantic, messy handwriting scrawled all across the pages. 
She sighed and picked up a charcoal pencil. The pencil hovered over the paper… then dropped. 
“I can’t. I can’t, I can’t, I can’t.” Snow flung the pencil out of the nearest window, then stood there breathing heavily. 
She didn’t enjoy writing. She especially didn’t enjoy the constant criticism from her boss and family. No one ever bought her books… always in the sales section of the bookstores. Snow was forced into this at a young age, and could never get out of the job. She was six, nearly an adult and her parents had high expectations for her when she grew up. Her brother had failed to meet the standards, and was publicly shamed then sent away in hopes of redeeming himself. 
”Just breathe. You must finish this series before the end of the month.” 
I don’t want to end up like Storm. 
The toxic IceWing families hadn’t changed much, due to the alarming rise in temperatures in the Ice Kingdom. Citizens are scrambling for better places away from the seas, closer to the palace that won’t ever melt. 
Queen Mink had changed since she first peacefully ascended to the throne. She had… grown more paranoid, and was getting crushed under the amounts of stress to keep her people from getting flooded homes. The past three years had been full of icecaps falling and breaking off, and even the inner kingdom was getting less snow every day. 
The other tribes tried to look like they cared, but nothing really compelled them to help. After all, it was the IceWing’s problem. Nothing affected them. 
Snow shuddered and dropped onto her ‘bed’ (it was a block of ice), tired and uncertain. 
Though really, is it that bad to be in exile like Storm? 
Yes. Yes it was. The palace was the only safe place. She needed to go there, and bring him with her. 
I need to survive. That’s the only way Storm can claw his way back home, with me by his side. 
Snow closed her eyes and let the darkness of her unconscious swallow her up. 
*** 
Sunlight flickered through the window. It shone aggressively onto her face, forcing her to wake up. 
I wonder if mother and father are home yet. 
Snow yawned and slowly got up. She realised she had, yet again, made no progress for her book. A sickening feeling worked its way into her stomach and Snow gently shut the open notebook. 
Goal for today: finish the next two chapters by tonight. 
Her silvery claws scraped the cold floor as Snow trudged out of her room, sneaking behind the living room’s single source of light. A smart little rap on the front door made her jump, and quickly hide behind a wall. 
”Is this the residence of Snow, age six attending Tundra Academy?” A stern voice asked. 
It’s not them. Good. 
Snow shyly opened the door, dipping her head instinctively. 
”It is, sir. What brings you to our humble home?” She asked, remembering her mother drilling introductions and manners into her any time she saw her daughter. 
The older IceWing handed her a wrinkled note. “This was to inform you of news of your brother.” 
He didn’t meet her eyes as she mumbled her thanks. 
“Queen Mink is expecting you to show that to your parents as well.” The messenger gave her a small nod, then leapt into the air, winging away towards the direction of the palace. 
This can’t be good, if mother and father are involved. 
The messenger had seemed worried, even a little pitiful. That was certainly unusual, the messengers were normally pretty impatient and ungrateful. Which was fair, actually. They didn’t get paid very much to fly around the kingdom all the time. 
The messenger slowly disappeared out of sight, and Snow closed the door. Her footprints were carving small grooves in the floor complimenting the many scratches from serrated IceWing claws. 
Her heart was practically beating out of her chest as she sat down and unfolded the letter. 
Dear Miss Snow, Sir Polar, and Lady Azure, 
It has come to our attention that your son, or brother, Storm, has recently taken an innocent SkyWing’s life. 
We don’t know how, or why, but his trial will be held in the royal IceWing court. 
Queen Mink has insisted you shall be invited. 
The trial will be held at noon tomorrow. 
Don’t be late,
-Lady Icefall. 
Snow’s talons were trembling. 
Her brother had killed another dragon. 
It was rather uncommon, but not rare, to see a dragon kill another dragon. The IceWings hadn’t had a citizen murder another dragon for a couple months now, and it was a big deal. The culprit will often get captured, and have a trial held for the Queen. 
It is discussed if they are guilty of the crime, or whether they are set up, or if they deserve the punishment. Then after the Queen has made her decision, the other tribe’s Queen will demand a punishment which is usually an eye-for-an-eye. Usually the Queen will have no choice but to follow through to the demands unless the culprit is not guilty. 
Snow was certain Storm was not guilty. He would never shame his family, or take another dragon’s life like that. Surely not… 
But what if he did kill that SkyWing? He’d be sentenced to death for sure… 
SHUT UP!!! 
She slammed the paper to the table, bruising her talon. Salty tears dripped onto the ice, and Snow and never felt so alone. 
***
It had been a long day at school and Snow was really upset and tired, worrying all about Storm every second of the day.
The loud bang of the door crashing open alerted Snow to lock her bedroom door. Two sets of heavy talon steps seemed to shake the house, filled with rage and frustration.
They’re going to read the note and shout and argue and fight and blame me. 
Snow braced herself for the loud roads that were sure to come.
“Hey honey, what’s this note?” Her mother asked, her voice rough and flat.
”It seems to be… from the palace!” Polar exclaimed excitedly.
”Are we finally getting an upgrade??!!” Azure shouted happily.
There was an alarming silence. 
I bet they just opened the letter, Snow thought, and winced.
”WHAT??!” Polar roared, and a crash of something smashing filled the air.
”THAT BLASTED CHILD!!” Azure screamed, and then growled. “I KNEW children were useless!”
”WHAT IS HAPPENING TO OUR REPUTATION??! WE’LL NEVER GET AN UPGRADE AT THIS RATE!!!” Her father slammed his tail into the ground and more crashes filled the air.
Please don’t come up here. Don’t come into my room. Snow prayed.
”SNOW! YOU CURSED DRAGONET! GET OVER HERE, I KNOW YOU’RE THERE!!” Azure stomped over to her room and tried to open the door.
She fell helplessly against the wall, and Snow whimpered in fear. 
“Unlock the door. NOW.” Polar demanded threateningly.
”NO!” Snow shouted, and hurriedly scrambled out of the window. The cold breeze of the night brushed her cheeks and the moonlight illuminated the snowy landscape before her.
They’ll come after me soon. 
Snow desperately glanced around for somewhere to run. 
They’ll also expect me to fly away…
She dove into a heap of cold, icy sludge. It was mixed with some snow and easily concealed the dragonet hiding inside it. She lay there, barely daring to breathe.
A loud crash signalled her door breaking down, and her parents rushed into the room. 
“Where’d she go?” Polar asked, frustration seeping through his voice.
”She must of flown away. If we hurry, we can catch her!” Azure snarled, and the sound of her wing beats overhead nearly made Snow’s heart jump out of her chest.
The matching wing beats of Polar followed, and slowly away.
Snow sighed in relief and quietly stuck her snout out. The moons were all crescents and the wind was gently blowing stray snowflakes around. There was no IceWing in sight. 
They’re gone. Thank the moons that worked.
She dug herself out and tiredly crawled back into her room.
I’m not going to finish my books. I’ll never be successful. 
Snow’s eyes hardened, and she stared off into the horizon.
I’m going to save Storm.
***
It was finally morning, and she was confident she was going to save her brother.
First, she would convince Queen Mink that he was innocent. Her brother would agree and tell the queen some important evidence that he did NOT kill that SkyWing. Then, she’ll DEFINITELY be convinced then, and go to Queen Maroon’s palace and tell her the real culprit. And THEN they’ll call a queen meeting to discuss the rising sea levels! It was a perfect plan.
Though I do need to get to the palace… Snow thought with a groan. 
Great.
She was camping outside the outskirts of the small town she lived in, hunting near the sea (which had risen alarmingly high than last time). Her parents had left to go to the trial, she knew that. They had flown overhead fairly recently.
If I remember right, I’m close to the diamond caves. Where the diamond trials were held.
Snow swirled her head and looked to the right.
That means the palace is exactly to the right of here… probably.
She launched into the air, beating her small light blue wings. Frost broke off her forearm as she shook it, falling to the snow with a satisfying crack.
This will most likely take a while. Ehhhhh… will my wings hurt afterwards? Hope not…
Her mother and father were probably cursing as they flew. Snow wondered how they reacted when they flew around looking for her for ages, and never found her. 
It would have been funny, she thought, wistfully wishing she could have seen it.
Her parents were so toxic. As soon as she had hatched, her brother Storm was the only source of love she had. Azure hadn’t wanted dragonets to begin with, but Polar had convinced her that they would help with their reputation.
Instantly, her red eyes had been a sign. Red was never a good colour, and Azure wanted to kick her out the very same day she had hatched. Polar had agreed, but their reputation would have been ruined if others learned that they had abandoned an innocent dragonet. Storm had protected her from their beatings and was always there for her. He was kind, loving and gentle. A solid rock, who wouldn’t budge but would protect you.
On Snow’s first day of school, she had gone there feeling pressured under their expectations. Storm hadn’t exactly fulfilled the standards and was ignored. No, they had focused entirely on their other dragonet. She had felt bad for him… but he was glad they weren’t around him. Storm and wished her luck and she was on her own for the first time. 
Being the ‘weird cursed one’, Snow had a hard time making friends. Then Owl had approached her, and befriended her. Snow had peace from her parents only at school, though still had strange stares. Her results were just a bad as Storm’s and all hope in her parents were lost. They began shutting them out, pretending they weren’t there. 
Storm became an adult still at the bottom of his class, bringing shame upon the family. Snow was devastating when she learned that her parents had decided to send him out of the Kingdom. Storm had insisted he take Snow with him. Azure and Polar had refused, knowing the other parents would think of them as beasts for getting rid of both children. 
Owl was also sad to see him go, afraid for her friend. They had continued on together, relying on each other. Owl had a family pretty similar to Snow’s, though her sister had done a lot better than Storm and had a successful business. Storm had sent her letters every week, but had suddenly stopped. 
It was then revealed that Azure was destroying the letters because she didn’t want any proof of their bad parenting. Snow had only stayed silent due to major threats of beatings. She was sad, and angry. Though there was nothing she could do… 
Then Azure had insisted on Snow getting a job. So, under pressure, she had taken up the occupation of being an author. She hated it, but nothing else wanted her for a job. Her creepy, cursed red eyes prevented any of that. So Snow published her first book, without any success. Owl was sympathetic, and they promised to always be there for each other. 
Then she had learned of the trial… and here she was. 
A shadow from above her brought her back, and she flinched. 
”I’M SO SORRY! I DIDN’T MEAN TO, ER, LOCK THE DOOR!” She shouted, and threw her wings over her head. 
”HA! It’s me, silly!” Owl came beside her, winking her silver eyes. 
”Owl! Don’t scare me like that! I seriously thought you were Azure, or Polar.” Snow smiled, and flapped harder to keep up. 
I’m glad Owl is here with me. 
*** 
”Ughhhh I’m so TIREDDD.” Owl complained. They had finally reached the castle, a little before noon. 
“Hurry up anyways!” Snow snapped, and glanced up at the sun. “It’s almost noon!” 
She powered forward, and floated quietly into the courtyard with the tree of light. 
Owl followed, much less quietly and much less gracefully, complaining along the way. 
”Shush!” Snow whispered, and they crept off into the palace. 
A few stray IceWings were wandering around, but most of them knew about the trial. One of them, a kind one named Frost, pointed out where to go. They thanked him and trotted down the hall. A huge set of double doors were before them, with beautiful snowflakes floating through the ice. 
“Ready, Snow?” Owl asked quietly, shifting her talons. 
”I’m ready.” She answered, and pushed the doors open. 
The court was huge, filled with seats all around single chair in the middle. There was a large white-blue IceWing chained to the chair. 
Storm. 
Her parents were staring disapprovingly at Snow, shooting ‘We’ll-just-kill-you-later’ looks at her. 
“C’mon Owl, let’s sit down.” Snow strode confidently over to the royal seat where Queen Mink were to sit, and sat just a few seats away. 
Owl joined her, and squeezed her talon reassuringly. Her brown freckles were creased upwards as she gave Snow a supportive smile. 
”Go get him back.” She whispered. 
”I will.” Snow answered, confidence flowing though her veins. 
Storm looked up, and looked straight into Snow’s eyes. His face lit up, and his dark blue eyes shone. 
”Snow!” He exclaimed, and grinned. “I knew you’d come.” 
She could barely hear him, but still knew what he was saying. 
”Of course I did. You’re going to go free.” 
The double doors suddenly banged open, and a large dragon with a silver tiara came in, alongside a few guards and lawyers. 
”It’s her… Queen Mink.” Owl mumbled, full of awe. 
*** 
“This dragon, Storm of the IceWings, had recently committed the murder of Gold of the SkyWings. Anything you say can be used against you. You have the right to say silent.” A beautiful, slender IceWing announced. 
“Thank you, Icefall.” Queen Mink nodded to the IceWing, and stared down at Storm, who was glaring back. 
”We have clear evidence of this murder. I think this is cased closed.” A snobby looking IceWing called out. He was wearing glasses that were a size too big, and they kept slipping down. 
”Hold on Whale. I want to hear the evidence.” The queen snapped. 
Thank you Mink! Snow thought. 
”Gold’s body was found in Possibility, in the market. It was right at his stall, and there were many witnesses. Gold was selling merch and it is stated that Storm approached him, the next moment Gold was dead. And Storm had his blood stained all over his claws.” Whale informed, and Storm looked at his claws with… was that shame? 
No. No no no no no no. NO! 
”Objection!” Snow cried desperately, and jumped up. 
All the eyes turned to her, even Storm’s. Her cheeks felt hot, and she didn’t know what to say. 
”Erm… well I knew Storm even when he was very young! He would NEVER do that!” She argued. 
There was an awkward silence. Owl coughed. 
”Well I’m sure that’s not enough evidence. Case closed!” Whale snorted. “That’s a terrible reason!” 
”WHALE! The final decision belongs to ME and ME alone! If you think you have the judgment to overrule me, we can talk about it after this.” Queen Mink warned. She studied Storm carefully. “What is your defence?” 
Storm was speechless. He cleared his throat, then didn’t talk. 
”Nothing? Then I assure you, my queen, that he is-“ Whale said, with still a little shock in his voice. 
”It was defence. I-He-He attacked me. I asked some questions, I was so sure he knew the answer, but he never gave in. Then he attacked me. He attached me first!” Storm broke in. 
Queen Mink’s eyes narrowed. 
So that means- 
“So you admit you killed Gold.” Mink asked, hardening her eyes. 
”What? No I- that’s not what I meant!” Storm argued, fear in his eyes. 
”Apologies, Whale. You were right.” Queen Mink dismissed him. “I herby leave your punishment solely up to the Queen of the SkyWings.” 
I failed. He’s… truely going away. He’s going to die. The SkyWing queen will demand for an eye-for-an-eye, I’m sure of it! 
Owl gasped beside her. “No…” 
== Chapter Two ==
-Luminescent
(“Aquatic” “Regular Speech” Thinking)
A smart rap on the coral brought Luminescent’s attention to the door. 
“Come in,” He flashed, bubbles floating around him as he sighed.
I bet they want a spell from me. 
A meek, purple-tinted SeaWing drifted into the coral room, her eyes instantly darting to look straight at his red scales.
Lumi had a weird collection of red scales beside his gills, and alarming red eyes. His other scales were also a strange colour; a dark purplish grey and other shades of light grey and vibrant green.
”What?” 
“It’s just… Never mind.” The older SeaWing looked around them, and had a rope of pearls strung around her neck. Most likely one of his third cousins twice removed or something.
Lumi continued sketching an interesting looking image of the Deep Palace imploding. The rock bench that served as a desk was covered in algae, and his water proof notebook was just starting to flake it off.
The other SeaWing just floated around awkwardly, waiting for him to speak. She clearly wasn’t very good at talking to other dragons.
He plucked a clam out of a ‘snack jar’ on his desk and slurped it up, ignoring the messenger.
”Qu-Queen Seafoam requires your presence in a royal meeting.” She flashed suddenly, her luminescent scales glowing a vibrant purple.
That annoying dragon again. All she wants is my magic! That’s kinda fair, actually. I AM an animus, after all.
”Please tell her I’ll be right there. And excuse my behaviour. I was a little irritated, that’s all.” He flashed back, and gently closed the sketchbook.
She seemed relieved that he wasn’t behaving like a brat, then dipped her head respectfully and swam gracefully out of the room. 
Great. I have to loose a little of my soul for another silly spell.
The Deep Palace was quieter than the Peace Palace, but it was still crowded with expectant dragons who are always exited to see the magical SeaWing prince. He often had a few visits a day, and was watched closely by guards.
Now where is the guard?
Luminescent stuck his head out of the room, and a thin guard with a kind face was standing alertly outside the door.
”Algae, The queen said I have to come to the royal meeting.” Lumi flashed, rolling his eyes.
”You better go then, I’ll come with you.” Algae picked up his narwhal spear and led the way to the palace meeting room. 
He had pearly green scales with hints of light blue, and wasn’t one of the strong burly guards. He was kind and let Luminescent roam free. Though… Lumi would have still preferred no guards.
The palace wasn’t as chattery today, most SeaWings were heading to the Peace Palace to see the group of MudWings who came to visit. The Deep Palace was finally a little peaceful, and full of serene fish swimming around every bejewelled corridor. The hard rocky floor was inlaid with pearls, and Lumi was careful not to snag one of his claws on them. 
He passed a frantic looking guard with a stone tablet, and they were hurriedly going up the passage way towards the hatchery. 
Wonder what that was all about.
Warm bursts of bubbles floated around him as he landed in the council break room. This room had all the plans and work the council members did, and where they revised what they need to say or do. After that, there was a meeting room for Queen Seafoam and her council.
He quietly opened the big set of double doors that led to the royal meeting room. It was not the biggest room in the palace, (the ballroom definitely tops that), but it was still fairly large with it’s big marble pillars and bejewelled seats.
This room wasn’t filled up to the brim with seawater, instead it was only half full enough for a huge dragon to be able to wade through the water. 
“Prince Luminescent. We’ve been expecting you.” Queen Seafoam’s young assistant, Pearl, announced in her crisp clear voice. Her scales were a light blue and had a slightly green tint to them.
”Well I am here now. What is it that you require from me? A new fountain, perhaps a new underwater copy of The Missing Princess?” He asked dryly.
Luminescent looked straight into his mother’s creepy red eyes. She had red eyes, though no extra red scales like he did. You couldn’t really tell that they were related, from her rich cobalt blue scales and his dark purplish black ones.
“This problem is solely about the SkyWings.” Queen Seafoam informed, ignoring his sarcastic comments.
The SkyWings? Since when did they want to get involved with us?
A year ago the SeaWings had accused the SkyWings of the murder of Princess Wave, the eldest heir to the throne. The SkyWings denied it and Seafoam waged war in them, convinced they killed her daughter. 
The SkyWings won the war and it was then found that a close relative of Princess Wave was extremely jealous of her and killed her in an effort to seize the throne. The SkyWings hadn’t since forgiven the SeaWings and wanted nothing to do with them.
Pearl glanced disdainfully at Luminescent. 
“As an animus you have the perfect gift: a custom spell. The SkyWings don’t HAVE animuses, and are jealous of other tribes’ magic.”
That did make sense. A spell in exchange for some forgiveness… it wasn’t hard to accept. Although…
”What about my soul?” He asked, unhappy with the idea.
Pearl sighed and rolled her mint green eyes. 
“You KNOW that theory was wrong. It affects a dragon’s emotions and how they feel with their magic. As long as you keep that earring on, you’re FINE.” She scolded him, shuffling around in her sapphire studded seat.
Luminescent still didn’t like it. The SkyWings could still be a little grouchy and unfriendly towards him…
But I can see the SkyWings. Actually meet them… or even other tribes, if I’m lucky…
”Do you agree?” Seafoam asked with a hard look in her eyes. 
He nodded, giving in. They clearly weren’t going to let him say no. 
”Good. You’ll be departing tomorrow, with an escort.” Pearl clapped her talons with a smug grin on her snout. 
The council members began filing out of the large marble room, sinking under the water with bored looks on their faces. 
I have to go to a kingdom that doesn’t even like me, to do my least favourite thing in the world. Yay. 
Lumi sighed and was about to sink under the water like everyone else, when his friendly little classmate hurried over to him. Her light blue scales seemed to shine under the light from the bioluminescent mushrooms and sea snails. 
”Hi Lumi! Hope you’re doing ok, the SkyWings are not going to be very friendly.” She blinked worriedly. 
”Nah, it’s fine. Just DOING MY JOB, after all.” He replied, not wanting to meet her bright, cerulean blue eyes. 
“You do know I care? About you?” Bubble took his talon in hers. 
Silence. Luminescent awkwardly shook her smooth blue talon off. 
”How did you get in here? It’s for royalty and council only!” He glanced around, nervous. 
”Ehh,” Bubble smirked, pride glinting in her eyes, “They never pay attention to who comes to the meetings.” 
Lumi scooped up a stray strand of seaweed that was floating around in the surface of the water. 
“You should be careful. Though I guess you did pull it off… I hate to admit it, but that was clever.” He draped the seaweed messily over her small brown horns. 
Bubble snorted. 
“You seriously suck at arranging these things.” She took it off and wrapped it expertly around one of his horns. 
Luminescent first met Bubble in class. They had been strangers, but Bubble had kindly approached him and they became friends. Their friendship had lasted, and her began having a little crush on her. What’s not to love about her? She’s kind, beautiful, smart, funny… 
”BUBBLE! WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE? YOU KNOW MERE COMMONERS SHOULDN’T BE MESSING AROUND HERE!!” Queen Seafoam shouted. She strode forward and slapped the poor dragonet. 
Bubble cried out in pain, and held her talon to her cheek. It was red, and her eyes filled with tears. 
That stupid, selfish, arrogant dragon! 
Luminescent quietly comforted Bubble, and turned on his mother. 
”WHY DID YOU DO THAT?!” He screamed, his red eyes wild and angry. 
Queen Seafoam narrowed her eyes. 
“I gave her a warning once before. She still came in here. That was the final straw.” 
You- you- you- 
“The hell? DON’T JUST HURT HER!! YOUR’E THE QUEEN! YOU PROTECT YOUR SUBJECTS!” he argued. 
”I can do what I like with my subjects. You’ll be next, but even worse. You should know your place! I am the queen!” Seafoam scolded. She reached up with her claws sharp and outstretched, ready to slash a permanent scar across his face. 
Oh no you don’t, Luminescent thought angrily. 
Her talon stopped midair, trying to push down but getting repelled by what seemed to be hard air. 
Lumi smiled, smugness and hatred in his eyes. 
”I can do what I like with my magic. You should know your place. I am THE ANIMUS.” He mimicked her arranging tone, and gently led Bubble out of the room. 
“YOU LITTLE-“ the queen growled angrily. 
The doors shut with a bang and Pearl sighed. 
”He’ll always never listen.” 
***
”I told you to be careful!” Luminescent whispered, tenting to Bubble’s wound.
They had swum up to the surface, where it was slightly stormy and the night sky was shrouded by clouds. It was quite gloomy, perfect for their situation. There was a small cave close to the old Summer Palace’, which was covered in a thin layer of pristine, dry sand. It was… their safe spot, a cave only they knew about.
Bubble grimaced as he slapped some wet seaweed on her cheek.
”I didn’t think she’d see me!” She protested, with a half-playful expression, but her eyes wore traces of pain and sadness.
Luminescent sighed.
”You’re too reckless. You know my mother doesn’t like you.” 
Queen Seafoam had already picked out a perfect wife for him, to continue the animus linage. She was pretty, he did admit, but had a snotty attitude towards him and always wanted him to perform spells for her. 
Lumi had refused her, saying he was far too young and already had someone in mind. Seafoam had instantly known he had eyes for Bubble, the charming little dragonet who always seemed to attract good energy around her. 
The stubborn mother had been disgusted by her ‘dirty’ commoner blood. Seafoam had banned the dragonet from the palaces and banned Luminescent from so much as looking at her. 
This sort of backfired, as Bubble took interest in Lumi for the sole reason that she was banned from talking to him. They became good friends, and were caught once or twice. Bubble was still blind to his feelings, believing that they were best friends who liked to hang out with each other. 
”Yeah, I know. But I like hanging out with you.” Bubble sulked, picking at her claws. 
“Well that’s too bad. You got hurt.” Luminescent stated, finishing treating the wound. Well. Treating it as well as a six year old dragonet could, anyways. 
Bubble sighed, and dug a little dent in the sand. She turned her eyes away, downcast and sad. 
”I really hate your mother.” 
Luminescent agreed. She didn’t deserve the throne. 
”Same. Violet should challenge her soon.” He said, thinking of his brave rash sister. Violet wanted the throne, but was afraid to challenge her mother. 
“We’ll just have to wait until she can. Then we can be friends, without any problems.” Bubble looked up and smiled, a bright hopeful smile. 
*** 
It was dawn, and Luminescent was worried. 
The SkyWings surely hadn’t forgotten their grudge… and they might do anything to get a priceless SeaWing hostage. He couldn’t attack them, under the order of the animus law, that stated animus’s could not use their magic to harm or affect anyone in a negative way. 
Lumi was pacing around in his room, staring blankly at the spiky coral walls. He had packed his things in a waterproof leather bag; a secret enchanted object, the official note form the queen, and a small framed sketch of Bubble. 
I don’t want to go. I DON’T want to go. 
Luminescent sighed as well as a dragon could underwater, small bubbles floating out of his nose. He turned around and slowly trudged out of the room, heaving the large double doors open. 
There, as per usual, was Algae, holding his narwhal spear and looking sleepy with his slouched back and droopy light green eyes. He snapped to attention as Lumi opened the door, but with a faint sheepish smile breaking through his serious posture. 
”We must go now. Seafaom’s orders.” The young animus informed, amused by the guard. 
Algae nodded, his green scales glinting in the faint bioluminescent light. 
Luminescent swam quietly through the pearly halls, this time the opposite direction of the royal meeting room. Whispers followed him as he went down the corridor, in small dim flashes. Algae was trailing alertly behind him, glaring at those who did. SeaWings flitted out of view as soon as he passed them, like shy little fish that spread rumours behind your back. 
“Did you hear… the animus is going to the SkyWings..” 
”I heard that our beloved Queen tried to stop him, but failed!” 
”What a betrayer… they took many of our dragons!” 
“He probably only wants to conspire with them.” 
”That freak always wanted to stay underwater. Now he wants to go above water, for the SkyWings?!” 
”Poor Seafoam… to have a son like that.” 
Oh shut up! You have no idea what it’s like! 
Luminescent fumed and tried to stomp past through the water, though it was quite impossible. A current flowed through the corridors and he rode it, gaining speed. Colourful fish whirled past, blurs as they escaped the incoming dragon. 
Even the fish flee from me. 
… 
Well… actually, that makes sense. I am a dragon, after all. 
Lumi swam through the maze of corridors, the pearls studded in the floors glinting as he went past. Big, fancy arches made of a gleaming white stone opened up to the deep waters outside of the palace. Creeping algae prowled forward and ever so slowly wrapped around some of the pillars, like green fur. 
He slowed down, feeling a sense of such dread and loneliness. Luminescent had only ever known life under water, away from the other kingdoms… he hadn’t ever seen others from different tribes before. 
*** 
“Animuses are special. We are keeping you in the deep palace for your safety.” 
“Why? Can I just… see the surface?” 
“No.” 
*** 
Lumi sighed, and slowed entirely to a stop. He looked back at Algae, and he tilted his head inquiringly. 
I’m going to miss the Deep Palace. But… I get to see the above world. I can see another tribe. 
”Let’s go.” He flashed, and beat his wings to power forward. 
The palace gardens were close, and that was where he would depart. Another right turn, to the left of the marble statue, and through the imposing white stone doors. Lumi pushed the door open, wishing the designer of the palace didn’t make the doors so hard to open. 
The gardens were always a nice sight to see, pastel corals, bioluminescent plants, huge clumps of seaweed and beautiful sea creatures all coexisting together. SeaWings always flitted around the gardens, usually to do peaceful things without getting bothered. 
But today, the gardens were rather full, an impatient queen with a fake smile drawing loads of attention as she waited for the ‘ungrateful animus’. Her eyes flashed with anger as he dramatically arrived, casting a beautiful spell with a smug expression. 
”Where have you been?!” She flashed, ever so dimly so the crowd wouldn’t notice. 
”I was getting prepared.” He said back, with so little light he couldn’t even tell himself. 
Seafoam sent him a tiny glare and addressed the crowd with a broken hearted expression. 
”Hello, my citizens! I have heard the rumours of my son being a ‘traitor’ to the tribe, and a betrayer! Apologies for your confusion, I must have forgotten to mention this to the tribe!” The queen gave everyone an apologetic look and swept her bright blue talons towards Lumi. 
“Your Prince is not a traitor; he is in fact working to improve relationships with the SkyWings. I’m sending him there to give the SkyWings a gift, in exchange for a couple years of peace.” Seafoam smiled, a warm smile with a trace of smugness as the crowd began to nod, beginning to understand the situation. 
Lumi checked his waterproof pouch, and looked up with a faintly bored expression as he confirmed everything was there. 
”May I go now?” He asked, his scales illuminating his dark purple face with vibrant green light. 
”You may. Algae and the rest of the guards will be accompanying you.” Queen Seafoam flashed, and gave the guards the signal. 
Algae was there, with his regular slightly worried expression scrawled across his pale green scales. Another three guards were standing beside him, one was a rich navy blue, another had light aquamarine scales and the third was a stormy shade of blue-grey. 
Great. More dragons to tell me what to do. 
Lumi waved a farewell to the crowd and paddled upwards, sighing to the guards that he was leaving. The blurred sun was bright as he neared it, even under the water. 
He excitedly swam up, drawn to the beautiful light of the sun. He longed to feel the sun on his scales, the wind ruffling his sail and the blue sky above him. 
The Deep Palace grew further and further away, nestled in the watery depths of the sea. So did Seafoam, so did Pearl. And so did Bubble. 
Luminescent broke through the surface of the water, scattering droplets everywhere as he threw himself out of the sea. 
It was so, so bright above the water. The blue water shone and reflected even more light into his eyes and the yellow sand seemed to radiate with light and the sky was so pretty and it was… 
Beautiful. 
*** 
The world above water was amazing. Wind was exhilarating, the sand didn’t drift around like underwater, things didn’t float like they normally did and flying… 
Flying was indescribable. Swimming wasn’t the same. He could float and paddle, but not swoop and dip and dive and loop around things like in the air. Luminescent loved it, loved everything about it. 
”So, which way to the Sky Kingdom?” He asked, feeling pleased. 
Algae glanced at him and faltered in the air beside him. They were flying over islands, green and gold jewels in the sea below. 
”We have… a while to go. The world is huge.” He said, and gave him a tired smile. 
Luminescent frowned. He wanted to see the SkyWings already, and see if they truly are as colourful as he read, majestic deep reds and oranges glowing gold in the sun. 
They continued in for a while, stopping occasionally at islands for breaks. He was quite disappointed with the progress they had made, only about halfway to the SkyWing palace. The other guards pleaded to swim to the palace, but Luminescent was not going to back down on an opportunity to fly instead. 
…Which was probably why they took so long, as the small band of SeaWings weren’t as experienced as they’d like in flying. 
”P-prince L-Luminescent, please can we stop for a break?” One of his guards asked, panting as she flapped over beside him. 
He snorted, and instead of replying, fixed his red eyes upon the distant horizon and powering forward even faster. 
The guard sighed and cast her pale violet eyes down, giving up on all hope that she would ever get a break, and Algae frowns. 
“Lumi, we need to land. It’s going to take another day to travel to the SkyWing kingdom. We can’t complete the journey without rest.” He looked sincere, staring solemnly into Lumi’s eyes. 
I want to keep going… they seriously have no stamina. Oh well, if we’re late it’s not my fault I guess. 
”Fiiiiiinnneee.” He grumbled, and glanced below to search for an island. 
Algae smiled, relieved, and beckoned to the other guards. 
Luminescent dove down to a small green circle of land in the ocean, digging his talons deep into the beautiful white sand. It was a simple pleasure, to feel the glorious warmth of the dry sand. 
The heavy thumps of the other dragons landing behind him were drowned out by the relaxing sound of the ocean waves. They seemed to crash endlessly over one another, spraying salty water into the air as they swallowed up any unfortunate crabs washed up on the beach. 
“It’s so beautiful.” He whispered, mesmerised by the waves. 
One of the guards glanced at him, awkwardness flashing in his sea-green eyes. 
There was a moment of silence as Luminescent admired the natural beauty of the sea above water. Finally Algae broke the silence, suggesting to hunt for a little bit and then settle down to sleep. 
The night was rapidly approaching, the stars coming out of hiding and illuminating the sky with their silvery light. There were no full moons tonight, all thin crescents that looked curved enough to sit on. 
The guards returned with squirming fish, each offering Luminescent their catch. He refused them, choosing to catch his own. With no success. Eventually, Algae had to catch one for him. 
The night had come and spread out across the skies, blanketing the usual blue with shades of dark purple and black. Dark shadows filled every gap, empty and menacing. Luminescent definitely liked the day above water than the night above water. There were no signs that it was morning at the Deep Palace… he just those copied around him. 
Now, with the guards all curled up around him, he felt alone. Like he wanted, but terrifyingly alone. Lumi knew they were close, (really close), but it was all… silent. They were all sleeping on a soft stretch of sand, in a ring with the Prince in the middle. 
”Can’t sleep?” Algae asked, lifting his head with a soft smile on his snout. 
”How can you? There are so many… shadows here.” Luminescent shivered. 
Algae nodded, understanding in his eyes. 
”It’s always hard the first time, but it gets easier. Trust me.” The guard reassured him, and sat up. 
”I’ll keep watch. It is my job, after all.” 
Luminescent gave him a thankful smile and settled down, sleep bringing him into dreams of red and gold SkyWings and the glorious mainland. 
*** 
”Let’s go!” He exclaimed, giddy with excitement. They were almost at the palace, and he could see the distant land ahead. 
The other SeaWings got up from the island they were resting on and threw themselves into the air, grumbling about their sore wings. 
The cliffs were practically growing closer; Luminescent was powering forward with excitement. The SkyWings… what did they look like? He had seen pictures, but others had described them to him as glowing red jewels against the blue sky. 
“We’re almost there!” He called, and reached the tall cliffs of the mainland. 
The stone was covered with a thick layer of soft, springy grass that spilled over the edge, as if it would fall over the side onto the white sand beach below. Luminescent landed, digging his talons into the grass and with a huge grin on his snout. 
”We’re here.” 
== Chapter Three ==
-Vallaretta
“Did you hear? A SeaWing is coming to the palace!” 
“Ugh didn’t they learn their lesson? Unless it’s to beg at our feet, they can just turn around and swim away.” 
”They can’t swim through the air, idiot.” 
“Whatever. Anyways, I hate them.” 
”They might be good allies, they owe us.” 
“That’s just like you Ruby, all wrapped up in your politics.” 
”I am not! Right, Val?” 
Vallaretta nodded, only half listening to their pointless conversation. 
Ruby smirked, smugness flashing in her dark red eyes. 
Honey sighed, with dissatisfaction in her voice as she continued arguing with Ruby about her focus in geography class. 
Val tuned them out, focusing entirely on the fact that a SeaWing was coming to the palace. The question was, what was the SeaWing doing, coming to the palace anyways? It must know that the entire population of the SkyWings despised it and it’s tribe… 
Will it get in the way of my plan? 
No, surely not. The SeaWing would never try to pry in her business, even less discover the hidden object in her room. 
”A GOOD FUTURE QUEEN LOOKS AFTER HER SUBJECTS!” 
”WELL SHE SHOULD PAY ATTENTION IN HER CLASSES THEN!” 
Those imbeciles will never get along. 
Vallaretta shook out her wings and stood up, her claws sinking into the plush red carpet. Her dark purple pupils narrowed to slits as she gently shoved the pair away. 
Ruby, being the oldest and strongest, wasn’t affected, and gave her a ‘you-got-to-be-kidding’ look. Honey was easily pushed back, hanging her head as she watched Ruby glare at them both. 
”Three moons! Stop arguing! I can’t even hear myself think.” Val complained, allowing a hint of fake laughter to show through her voice. 
What a useless act.
Ruby let out a small hiss of amusement, but her eyes were serious. 
Vallaretta gave her a warning look, and smiled to Honey. 
“Ruby and I have to go. She has a lesson about managing the treasury, see you later!” The SkyWing princess grabbed her sister’s burnt orange arm and led her out of the room, ignoring her quiet protests. 
Honey nodded and picked up a yellowed scroll, loosing interest in their previous conversation. 
Their talonsteps echoed through the hall, and Val felt like growling as Ruby trotted loudly beside her. 
“I know YOU know my lesson isn’t now. What is it?” She whispered to her, narrowing her eyes. 
Ah. Her sister, Ruby. Her only true competitor for the throne. The only one that really knew Vallaretta… or the Val she kept hidden inside. 
“Nothing. I just needed you guys to stop arguing.” 
“No you didn’t.” Ruby shot back, rolling her beautiful crimson eyes. 
Yet again her older sister had read her like a book. It was… irritating, though nice to know someone that could understand her. 
”You’re right. I didn’t,” Val admitted, “Just the SeaWing. It’s coming, to make a peace offering. It surely must know that mother will never accept anything from them, though.” 
Her sister paused, thinking. They had stopped next to a tall, full length window, and they were bathed in a bright blue-gold light. 
”It must be an unusual gift, otherwise the’d never be so confident.” Ruby answered at last. 
An unusual gift… Most likely something we don’t have, but they do... Could it be… 
“It might be animus magic.” Vallaretta pointed out, excitement bubbling up inside her. 
I must take this opportunity! Though, so early in the stage of my plan; it was supposed to be another five years before I got my claws on animus magic… but if the object is already enchanted, I will have to wait even longer. 
Ruby gasped, and her eyes widened. 
”That’s it! Of course Queen Seafoam would offer her most valuable resource to us- we are more powerful than they are after all.” 
The pair continued through the brightly lit stone hallway, and reached the entrance to the throne room. The room with the magnificent throne was rather bland, with spirals indented in the stone sides and a simple open archway, the beautiful view of the Sky Kingdom sprawled out before them. According to the older dragons, who were young dragonets alive in Scarlet’s time, claimed there was once gold inlaid in the indents. 
Vallaretta though it was awesome, and would look as powerful and wealthy as the SkyWing tribe was. 
Today, Queen Maroon was pacing around the throne, talking with a tired older advisor. 
“That SeaWing better come soon! He’s an hour late.” She snarled, her vivid yellow eyes darting occasionally towards the open archway. 
So the SeaWing is a male. A male animus. Hmmm. 
Ruby thrust Vallaretta forward with her and did a small bow to their mother. 
”Mother. I couldn’t help hearing your conversation, I would like to know what the SeaWing is coming for?” The older SkyWing princess asked, one moment relaxed and easygoing, the next graceful and regally inclining her head. 
Vallaretta was also paying her respects to the queen, with a twinge of annoyance. What a stupid gesture. Val would be the future queen, so there was no point for her to bow. 
Maroon sniffed arrogantly at her daughters, finally stopping her pacing to seat herself on the throne. 
”Apparently he is offering a… spell of some sort, a custom one. I get to choose the spell, and enchant whatever I like.” The queen announced grandly. 
A custom spell! Does she not understand the importance and power that comes with this? Hold on. If I challenge mother right now, I will certainly die. She’s definitely more powerful than me. But if I… 
”Really mother? Wow! Can we help you decide? Something that will protect the kingdom!” Vallaretta exclaimed with well-acted enthusiasm. 
I hate this. This is the worst step of my plan, to be the ‘kind’ one among my sisters. Ugh. 
Queen Maroon tossed her head, and sighed. 
“I suppose you can provide suggestions. You really do care for the kingdom more than anything.” 
Ruby glanced at Val, with a slight tilt of her head, signalling her confusion. Val have her a light shake of her head as a sign to keep quiet and don’t ask. 
The other princess nodded and her dark red eyes were focused on their mother once more. 
”Great. Maybe a spell to help heal our wounds and improve the healer’s tower?” Ruby asked, just as a few blue and green dots becam visible in the distance. 
Maroon strode off the throne in one graceful movement and adjusted her crown. 
”Finallly! Those sea worms are here!” She complained, wiht a hint of glee in her voice. 
This is your chance. Be the perfect princess… kind… loving… and worst of all, caring. 
”Is that really a SeaWing? Looks like a stuck up NightWing to me.” Ruby remarks as a peculiar dark purple SeaWing dove forward, seemingly the leader of the group. He had a bright green sail and startling bright red eyes. 
Is that the animus? He looks so… young. Hmm. Maybe around my age?
He had an almost perfect mask of border, but Val could easily tell he was struggling to keep his eyes from flashing with excitement and widening with amazement. 
“You’re late.” Queen Maroon stated with disdain as the SeaWing dragonet landed wonkily on the throne room floor, then awkwardly tried to look regal and hold his head high. 
“I am Prince Luminescent, and-“ Lumi started.
A flutter of wings cut him off and the rest of the SeaWings flopped onto the ground, panting as they made an effort to keep standing. One of the guards was a pretty pale green, and stepped forward in front of the irritated prince, being the first of the five to actually look professional.
”Apologies for the inconvenience. Queen Seafoam miscalculated the time to get from our palace to yours.” There was a small emphasis on the word yours, and Vallaretta noticed the disgust hidden under his fake layers of kindness.
You came to us. Don’t blame us for your queen’s silly mistakes.
Maroon sniffed, clearly noticing the difference as well.
”Go on then. Who is the animus?” She asked with a hint of impatience.
Prince Luminescent pushed in front of his guard, his red eyes catching on Vallaretta’s own purple ones. There was a flicker of surprise and wonder, and then after a moment he turned back to her mother.
Surprised? Your’e not the only special one.
”I am, your…” He trailed off as he glanced at the green SeaWing with confusion. The guard nodded.
”I am the animus, your majesty.” Luminescent announced, pride in his voice. The other SeaWing sighed.
Great. The animus is an arrogant prince who doesn’t know how to do anything without his babaysitter. 
“Really? You’re an animus? Are you giving us a custom spell?” Vallaretta asked, her flawless expression conveying the perfect mix of excitement and curiosity.
Lumi glanced at her, and she saw the same flash of surprise, though smaller than before.
”Yes. I am offering you a free spell. I will enchant anything you tell me to, and you may decide what the enchantment is.” 
Aha. Perfect. If I play my cards right…
”Oooh! That’s so cool… but how does animus magic work again? You think to an object…?” 
Be a cute, clueless princess who cares dearly about her kingdom. Dragons like dumb dragonets, who will do exactly as they ask.
Ruby made a ‘hmm’ sound.
”That is… sort of it. They can cast spells on objects and whatever the enchantment they place on the object will come true.” 
”Ohhhh ok, thanks Ruby!” Vallaretta smiled, a smile that wasn’t exactly perfect, with a tiny hint of her irritation showing through. 
Her sister arched her brows, and thought better to flat out ask her what she was up to. Luminescent broke the awkwardness by clearing his throat. 
“So. What do you want?” He asked, “I mean. What is the spell going to be?” 
Real smooth. I bet he’s been used to dragons begging at his talons his whole life. He’s never had to pretend to be an entire,y different dragon to take the throne in five years, just because you were born weak. 
Queen Maroon frowned, and tapped her gold-painted claws thoughtfully on her cheek. 
“Hmm.” It filled the room, as everyone waited eagerly for her to make her decision. 
This is my chance! 
”Um- Mother?” Val started, stumbling forward, her eyes getting blinded by the bright sunlight that was slowly filling the room. 
”Yes, Vallaretta?” Maroon asked with border lacing her voice. 
”Well, t-to benefit the kingdom- could the object m-make the user immune to animus magic? Or, really, anyone the original user chooses?” She blurted out, intentionally stammering under her mother’s glare. 
A small gasp escaped from the SeaWings prince’s mouth. He gave his guard a wary look, and he sent him a concerned, slightly nervous glance back. 
Of course. You can’t attack us if we’re all protected. That part… was not intended, but it is a bonus. 
Maroon’s eyes lit up, and she smirked. 
”What a great idea! It will really benefit us, to ensure we won’t get attacked by any rampaging animuses won’t it?” 
One of the guards, a pretty gray-blue female, gritted her teeth and shot daggers at her. 
What can I say. You offered the deal. I’m going to take advantage of it.
”I- I…” Luminescent protested, but fell silent as Queen Maroon shifted her menacing gaze on him. The sun was starting to set, and an ominous red-orange light was shining behind her as she blocked the open archway as the SeaWing shuffled closer to the exit.
”Ruby. Find a suitable candidate for the spell. I will make sure they don’t… assume we are open to our guests leaving unexpectedly.” 
The pearly green guard shifted uncomfortably as Ruby bowed and her burnt orange tail disappeared around the corner.
”That… isn’t necessary.” 
Luminescent gave the SkyWing queen a weak agreeing nod, and fiddled with his dark purple claws. 
Maroon didn’t respond, and stood still as her beady eyes glared down the corridor where Ruby was bound to emerge from soon. The room was eerily silent. Luminescent edged closer to the light green guard and they began whispering about their worries for the spell. 
“Is this really a good idea?” 
“Queen Seafoam ordered it… but I can’t be sure.” 
“They’ll be protected from us! Our main weapon has been animus magic for hundreds of years, what will happen if- if the SkyWings decide to attack us, or worse?” 
“Don”t worry. We have the sea, and they have the sky. If our tribe is really in trouble, we can escape easily. Besides, they don’t have animus magic themselves, so can they really attack us?” 
“That’s true…” 
The sound of Ruby’s red talons hurrying up the hallway echoed in the room, and she arrived panting with a gold necklace hung around her neck. 
”Will this do?” The princess asked, presenting the necklace to her mother. 
Maroon sniffed. 
”I suppose.” 
She took the necklace out of her daughter’s talons and thrust it at Luminescent, whose red eyes widened with surprise as he caught it. 
“So. Do the magic. And speak aloud.” The queen ordered. 
The animus held the garment in his claws, taking deep, shaky breaths. 
“I enchant this necklace to allow whoever is wearing it to be immune to animus magic, apart from this spell. I also enchant this necklace to allow the user to ‘blanket’ others with it’s magic, giving them the same effect of immunity.” 
He sighed with relief, and placed the necklace in Maroon’s expectant talon. 
That’s… it. Two sentences. He uses his magic so carelessly! If only I had the same power he does! The SkyWings would be ruling over both continents by now! 
Vallaretta clenched her fists but remained silent. Queen Maroon held it up, and inspected it thoroughly as if she were expecting more. 
”Oh. That’s all? It looks the same.” 
Luminescent began to roll his eyes, then quickly realised and let out a squeak as Maroon glowered at him. 
“It still does the job. Trust me. Just… try it!” He reassured, his dark purple tail twitching nervously. 
The queen glanced thoughtfully at the golden jewellery and dropped it around her neck. 
“Protect me from animus magic.” She whispered. 
Nothing sparkly or shiny or anything seemed to happen. Maroon stared unimpressed at the necklace, her judgmental yellow eyes glaring at the markings. 
”Go on. Turn me blue or something!” She ordered, gracefully looping onto the cloud throne. 
Luminescent waved his talon with a skeptical expression, and Maroon waited, half expectantly, for her scales to turn blue. Nothing happened. 
”It works!” Vallaretta exclaimed, her excitement spilling into her voice. 
“Yes. Of course it does.” Queen Maroon sniffed. She swept her talon towards the SeaWings edging closer to the exit. 
”I assume your queen gave you orders to stay for a night? Or do you just have bad manners?” Her eyes narrowed. 
”Showing your obvious displeasure.” 
The light green guard seemed to remember something, and hesitated. 
“We… were given those orders, yes.” 
Luminescent scowled, and silently lashed his tail. 
Maroon signalled to her guard, “ Find them suitable quarters. Preferably… close together.” 
A few of the vermillion SkyWings began to surround the SeaWings and guide them off through the hallway, looking intimidating in their clunky metal armour. 
The SeaWings, accepting the fact that they must stay, let the soldiers march them off without a word. Vallaretta felt a twinge of satisfaction, and padded forward to stop beside her mother. 
”You should cloak us, before the SeaWings decide to enchant any of the royal family.” She advised. Queen Maroon nodded, and whispered something to the necklace. 
A tickling sensation washed over her; though it was very subtle and Vallaretta could only just feel it. 
I’m protected now. Nothing can stop me… not even animus magic. 
*** 
The SkyWing siblings had left the throne room shortly after, feeling accomplished and oddly satisfied. 
“We should probably go check on the SeaWings.” Ruby pointed out, in the middle of a silly argument about which kind of meat was the best. The older dragonet was firmly on the pork team, while Vallaretta was rooted in the ground of the lamb team. 
Oh right… I forgot about them. 
”Fine.” She gave in, thinking of ways to try squeeze information out of them. 
The sisters began making their way to the SeaWings’ chambers, silent as they padded through the stone corridors. Vallaretta’s claws scraped the ground, and she enjoyed her sister flinching at the sound. 
Loud echoes of angry shouts were bouncing through the small hall, and the sound of crashing objects． 
Why must we go meet them now? 
Vallaretta began falling behind, and hid behind Ruby’s back as she knocked politely on one of the expensive wooden doors. 
The crashes stopped abruptly, and Val assumed they were at the right door. The sound of angry, heavy footsteps thundered to the door, and the princesses hurried back, just in time. The door was violently thrown open, and a fuming Luminescent was glaring out. 
“I TOLD YOU ALGAE JUST GO AWA-“ He stopped, mid sentence as his red eyes landed on them. 
”Uh… hi.” Luminescent said sheepishly. 
”Hi…” Ruby replied, unimpressed. She shouldered her way in, her head high. 
Val followed, but made sure to add a little slack to her posture. She smiled apologetically at Luminescent, and he smiled back, though it was smaller and his eyes were still distracted by her own violet ones. 
“Sorry about my sister. She can be a little… insensitive.” She whispered, feeling a hidden disgust. 
The next few minutes were all of Ruby glancing arrogantly at Luminescent, him returning the glare with Vallaretta trying not keep them from flying at each other. 
”Why are you here? You stuck-up Prince! Is this some bribe so that we don’t attack you again, after all that you did to us? Remember, we beat you, WITHOUT ‘oh-so-powerful animus dragons. We can do it again!” Ruby shouted, finally breaking the fragile silence. 
”I don’t want to be here! They always order me around like- like- I’m some sort of servant!” He paused, breathing heavily. “YOU don’t understand. Of course you don’t.” 
Ruby let out a frustrated growl. 
“YES, OF COURSE WE DON’T! Are we mind readers? Do we look like we’re NightWings? I haven’t lived in your horrible kingdom my entire life! Do you really expect me to look at you and be like: ‘Oh my god good grief now that’s a dragon I fully understand through and through!’” 
She got up, grabbed Vallaretta’s dark red tail and stormed out of his room. 
“SeaWings! Always acting like they own the place!” Ruby muttered. 
“SkyWings! Such stubborn idiots!” Luminescent shot back, clearly hearing her departing words. 
== Chapter Four ==
WIP
== Chapter Five ==
WIP
== Chapter Six ==
WIP
== Chapter Seven ==
WIP
== Part Two: A Twist of Murder ==
== Chapter Eight ==
WIP
== Chapter Nine ==
WIP
== Chapter Ten ==
WIP
== Chapter Eleven ==
WIP
== Chapter Twelve ==
WIP
Category:Mature Content
Category:Genre (Tragedy)
Category:Genre (Adventure)
Category:Fanfictions
Category:Fanfictions (Incomplete)
Category:Content (Macanut23)
Category:Genre (Mystery)
Category:Fanfictions (Semi-Canon)
Category:Fanfictions (Fanon)