Ezran/History

Information
History
Relationships
Gallery

* Overview
* Prequels
* First Saga
* Fillers
* Second Saga

## History

Ezran was born to King Harrow and Queen Sarai in the kingdom of Katolis, making him the heir to the throne, as the king's only blood-related son. As an infant, he was deeply beloved by both of his parents, though he lost his mother before his first birthday. Despite this, both Ezran and Callum grew to have a loving relationship and happy childhood provided by their father, who would take them to their winter home, the Banther Lodge during the snowy seasons. At some point, Harrow gave Ezran a Glow Toad as a pet, whom the king named Bait, which was a joke as deep-sea fisherman using Glow Toads to catch giant fish.

## Book One - Moon

### Echoes of Thunder

Ezran sleeps in bed, snoring and drooling on his Glow Toad, Bait. He is awoken by a crack of thunder and shouts for Callum, who assures him that it is only a thunderstorm and that he has nothing to be afraid of. He tells him to go back to sleep. He does so, but not before protesting that he was not scared. That afternoon, he sneaks into a local bakery along with Bait and steals jelly tarts off a tray from the baker, Barius. As Barius is distracted by Bait, he snatches up an entire tray's worth and beats a retreat.

Ezran and Callum are summoned by King Harrow, who tells them that they are to go on a trip to the Banther Lodge. He thinks the trip will be boring, as it's the winter lodge, with everything fun there having to do with snow and ice. Despite his protests, Harrow is insistent. He tells Callum that something must be wrong, but Callum insists that everything will be fine. That evening, he plays hide-and-seek with Bait, but it is an easy game, as Bait's glowing gives him away. Callum chastises him for not packing for their trip. When Ezran laughs after he gets a jelly tart on his clothing, he snaps at him, telling him that forces are coming to kill King Harrow. At this, Ezran sets down Bait and runs off, slamming the door on Callum.

### What is Done

Callum, thinking that he is still hiding, speaks through the door, telling him that he will do his jerkface dance for him, but gets no response. Later, while on the run from the elven assassin Rayla, he hears Ezran's voice coming from behind a painting, but tells him it's not a good time to talk to him. Rayla swings back the painting, revealing Ezran and Bait. He offers her a jelly tart. Callum tells to get out of here and Ezran addresses him by name, asking him what's going on, his charade of being Ezran himself is broken. Ezran holds up Bait, telling her to say hello to his little friend. He turns away, closing his eyes, and Rayla is temporarily blinded by Bait's bright light. He tells Callum to follow him so that he can show him something. The two flee down a passage, where Ezran places his hand in a pattern on rocks and stones to reveal a secret tunnel further underground. He thinks they are safe, but Rayla enters the same code by tracing the pattern from his jelly tart handprints. She tells them that time is up and that she will serve justice. Callum moves to shield Ezran, but Ezran tells her that she needs to see something. He pulls a cloth from a table, revealing a glowing egg from which he says that he can hear something alive inside.

### Moonrise

As Rayla examines the egg, Ezran tells her that he can feel the dragon is doing alright. When Claudia arrives, offering protection, he clutches the egg. She tells him not to be afraid and commands him to bring the egg. He replies that the dragon wants its mother and tells the group to follow him. They flee, leaving Claudia chained. He refuses Rayla's request to take the egg to show the assassins, but agrees to lead her to the castle roof. There, at Callum's call, Ezran presents the egg to the leader of the assassins, Runaan. Runaan, however, refuses to back down from his charge, forcing Ezran and Callum to flee. Callum tells Ezran to hide inside a wheelbarrow full of hay while he talks to "the king." Ezran asks why he does not call him "Dad," saying that he would want him to. Later, when Callum returns, he asked him if he talked with Dad, but Callum shakes his head. He tells Ezran that it's up to them to return the egg. Ezran agrees that they will finds its mother. They flee into the forest neighboring the castle. Ezran asks Callum if he thinks their father will be okay, and Callum replies that he has finest guards in the kingdom defending him. Ezran seems cheered by this.

### Bloodthirsty

Waking up in the forest in the morning, he tells Callum he had a weird dream. Callum tells him that it was all real. Ezran asks if he's sure, because there was a giant pink hippopotamus whose ear he pulled off because it was made of taffy. Callum replies that *was* a dream, and he thought he meant the events of the night before. They continue on their way to the Banther Lodge. Ezran asks for a break, saying that he's thirsty and Rayla offers a flask of a red liquid. Callum tells Ezran not to drink it, thinking that it's blood, but Rayla explains that it's actually moonberry juice. Ezran quaffs it happily as they continue their march. When they arrive at the Banther Lodge, Ezran finds it weird that there's nobody there to greet them. While Rayla sneaks around inside, they hear a horn and meet a hoard of forces led by their Aunt Amaya. Ezran hides the egg and happily greets Amaya, accepting a hug. As she and her forces search inside for Rayla, he tries to distract her by telling her that he skipped breakfast. It seems to work, as Amaya finds some bread. While they talk at a table, Ezran tries to cut into the disgustingly hard bread using a sword, then bites into it with a loud crunch. After Rayla is captured, he enacts a plan with Callum, sending down Bait on a dumbwaiter, whom Rayla uses to temporarily blind her guards. The group then escapes together, Rayla pretending to take the two hostage, though Ezran's cries of pain are less than convincing. They then take off on a boat.

### An Empty Throne

As the group camps in a forest, Rayla states that she's going to get some food. Ezran tells her that they have food, showing her a bag of bread that he got from the Banther Lodge. She says that she thought was a sack of clubs and drops one of the loaves on a small rock, actually causing it to break. Ezran insists that the bread is "food-ish," biting on it but Rayla is not convinced. Later, when Callum is stuck in the middle of an electrical spell using the primal stone, he describes Callum's plan to simply throw the stone to Rayla as a good one. He then states that she's making a sizzling sound after she catches the stone. As Callum tries to convince Rayla that they should take a boat instead of walking, he points out Ezran's legs, causing Ezran to comment that he has nice legs as he tries to reach apples on a tree.

On the boat, as Callum explains the story of Bait's name, Ezran tells him to keep it down because Bait does not know how delicious he is. He then comments "and that's how the noodle got its name" to try to trick Bait. As the boat goes over a waterfall, he smiles and giggles in delight, thrilled at the ride. When they finally make it clear, he asks if anyone else sees Bait. Everyone looks around the boat and then he hears a croak and sees Bait going over the waterfall. He tells Bait to do his "froggy paddle" and come back. He does so and Ezran chides him for having been in the water, but then hugs him. The group is then attacked by a monstrous fish and everyone is sent flying. Rayla is sent clear to land, but Callum and Ezran have to swim to shore. As they do, Rayla shouts at them that Bait is in trouble and that Bait needs help, but Ezran hears it as "Bait sneezed kelp." Callum tells him that she said "Bait's knees smell," and he replies that that's just mean. Rayla ends up rescuing Bait herself and, back on land, Ezran thanks her, telling her that Bait would have been fish food without her. He asks her why she had not told them about her fear of water sooner, telling her that it's okay to be afraid of things. In return, she states that she was afraid of being afraid. He calls it sad when she admits that Moonshadow Elves are never supposed to show fear. The group continues their journey into the forest, now on foot.

### Through the Ice

Ezran wakes up in the forest and seeing Rayla gone, wakes up Callum from talking in his sleep. Callum asks if she took the egg, but Ezran shows him that they still have it. Callum tells him that it does not mean they can trust her and he tells him that he likes her. He suggests that everything they've been told about elves might be wrong, but Callum replies that she's not telling them everything. Later, Ezran asks him about the earlier sleeptalking, saying that he said something about "peanut butter." Callum claims that he was talking about peanut butter sandwiches. Rayla arrives, saying that they need to get moving, but Ezran suggests that they should eat something first. He tells her that Bait is grumpy, but Rayla insists they get going. He balks at Rayla's suggestion of taking tough terrain to get away, asking if she has any idea how heavy the dragon egg is. She replies that she does not because they will not trust her to carry it and they should quit crying about it. After a while of climbing, they stop for a break, only to discover that Callum left behind the bread. Rayla discovers her moonberry juice flask is empty and Ezran denies drinking it. She blames Bait, who is glowing strangely, but Ezran insists that Bait would not do it, telling her that she has no proof. He explains that Bait glows differently depending on how he is feeling, such as when he is "hangry." He then admits that he's never seen quite the color that Bait is displaying now and when Bait belches in his face, he is forced to agree that Bait did indeed drink the juice.

The group continues up a snowy mountain, Ezran begging Rayla to slow down. Callum helps him to continue, but he stops again and sits on the ground, saying that he needs to catch his breath. As Rayla and Callum start an argument, he begs them to stop, pointing out that their noise is cracking the ice. He shushes them and shows them the cracks, warning that they could start an avalanche. He sees the cracking stop and they continue on their way, but Bait emits a loud belch and there is an avalanche. They all flee, Rayla dragging Ezran, who has trouble keeping up. Callum manages to stop the rush of snow with a spell and Ezran ends up a few paces from the egg in the middle of a frozen-over pond. As he goes to get the egg, he cracks the ice. He stays still while Callum and Rayla come for him. There, Rayla reveals the secret that she is bound with an assassin's binding to end Ezran's life and it will not come off while he's alive, until finally she loses her hand. When Callum hands her the egg, she ends up dropping it into a crack in the ice. Ezran dives into the water to rescue the egg, shocking Callum. When he does not quickly reappear, they think he has died, but then Rayla realizes that her binding is still tight and he must still be alive. They find him a little ways away, underneath the ice. Rayla cracks the ice and frees him. Callum begs him to say something. He opens his eyes, telling Callum he has a "case of the frozey-toesies." Then, he sees the egg, whose glow is fading. He despairs, saying that there is something wrong with it.

### The Dagger and the Wolf

Ezran watches Callum drawing a picture of their mother, Queen Sarai. He tells Ezran that he thinks that Sarai was watching over them when Ezran was trapped in the ice and that she'd be proud of them both. He tells him also that she'd yell at him to sit closer to the fire and bundle up. Ezran sniffles and does so. He eats some moonberries found by Rayla, but is wary when she offers him "bogey berries" as a cure for his cold. She tells him that he's not to eat them, but rather that he has to stuff them up his nose. He does so. They continue their journeys and reach a village where they hope to find someone who might know how to cure the egg. When Rayla does a questionable impression of a typical human, he nevertheless describes it as "pretty good." In town, he witnesses a man named Tristan fighting using a Sunforge blade. As Rayla explains Sunforge weapons to him, he suggests that Tristan's pants would be on fire if not for the blade's protective properties.

As Rayla pursues her own task, Callum and Ezran find an establishment with a sign that leads Ezran to believe it could house some kind of animal doctor. They enter the facility and the animal doctor looks at Bait in Ezran's arms and says that there is nothing he can do for him. Ezran addresses and hugs a horse, saying that he saw something really scary. The doctor explains that the horse ran up the Cursed Caldera. He asks what he can help them with. They tell him in turns that a man named "Jofus" dropped an egg in an icy lake. He tells them that he will not be able to help them unless they tell him the truth, so Ezran shows him the egg after getting a promise from him to not tell anyone. He tells them that he does hear a heartbeat, which Ezran thinks must be a good sign. He says, however, that it is dying and he does not think there's anything he can do to save it. Ezran insists that there must be something. As they start to leave, the doctor tells them that there's something else, something he almost did not tell them because it could be incredibly dangerous. He speaks of a miracle that happened on the Cursed Caldera, an and introduces them to the girl Ellis and her wolf, Ava. She speaks of a miracle, a healer at the top of the Cursed Caldera who managed to magically grow Ava a new leg. Both Callum and Ezran agree that they must try to seek out this miracle healer. They head off to find Rayla and Ezran tells her of the miracle healer, thinking that this healer might also be able to help with the binding on her hand. They are then run out of town by an angry mob due to the news having spread that Rayla is an elf.

### Cursed Caldera

After taking refuge behind a tree at the bottom of the mountain, the group is quickly joined by Ellis and Ava, who have decided to help them on their quest. As they discuss the matter, Ezran suggests that the miracle healer could help Rayla with her hand, but she tells him not to worry about it, that only the egg matters. He marvels at the sunset on the mountain, but Ellis warns him that the night means that the horrors of the mountain are about to begin, including indescribable terrors. Callum says that they will need a plan, and Ezran asks how one would plan for indescribable terrors. Callum comes up with a plan, telling Ezran that the first part of it is for him to hold Bait up in the air to flash and blind whatever monster they might face. He counters that this means that he's not really doing anything, but Callum describes him as "support".

They continue through the misty mountain, somewhat surprised by the lack of terrors. Ezran asks Ellis if they're really on the Cursed Caldera, or if it might actually be "Humdrum Hill." They then encounter the dead remains of a massive wolf-like beast, which Ezran says he's never seen anything like before. The creature has a massive bite-mark and the group is accosted by some sort of giant slug monster. Callum calls for the plan, but Ezran cannot find Bait. He then spots him on a nearby rock and races to grab him to flash the monster, but he flashes too soon, blinding the entire group. Ezran suggests that they need a new plan and Callum tells them all to flee. Later, at the top of the tree where they hide, Ezran strokes the egg, which still has a flickering glow. Rayla comments that it's still hanging in there, barely, and he apologizes for messing up the plan. She tells him that everyone messes up sometimes, or if you're her, all the time. She says that if he had not messed things up, she would have found a way to, but he replies that as far as he can tell, she's awesome at everything. She says that this is true until the moment it matters, then she messes things up. She thinks too much and fails. She tells him how she could not kill the human guard who came for her group, but Ezran says that she saw the guard was scared, and a person just like her. He thanks her for failing at her mission, saying that he likes being alive. She says that perhaps the hand with the binding is her unlucky hand and that her luck will change when it falls off. Having not seen the monster in a while, the group starts to move on, though nobody laughs at Ezran's "See ya', sucker" joke (the monster being a giant leech.) However, the monster shows itself again, so they enact the plan. This time, Ezran holds up Bait and successfully blinds the monster. Everything goes well and they continue on their way, but when Callum talks excitedly of their success, Ava whimpers and pins back her ears. Ezran tells the group that he has bad news - there is no miracle healer.

### Wonderstorm

Callum tells Ezran that he owes them an explanation if he's going to make a claim like that. He begins by saying that Ava told him this, but Callum cuts him off, irritated. He does not believe that Callum can talk to animals. Ezran despairs, saying that he knew he would not believe him. Rayla tells him that she's listening, but it's hard to believe. Ezran tells her that he does not fit in with other kids. She replies that fitting in is boring, and he tells her that a few years ago, he discovered that he could talk with animals. Callum asks if she really believes this and she asks why he would lie. He suggests that he's afraid to go up the mountain, saying that he had asked him to prove it before. He told him that a group of raccoons said that there was a treasure hidden behind a waterfall, but there was no treasure. Ezran tells him that the raccoons were being mischievous. Callum replies that this is why he cannot make friends. Rayla tells him to back off. Ezran asks if she believes him and she replies that it does not really matter. Ellis tells him that she believes him, but she knows the miracle healer is real because she has Ava.

They continue their journey and hear a strange moaning sound. At first they ignore it, but then Ezran says that somebody might need help. Rayla tells him that he has a good heart, which is annoying, but goes to check it out. She discovers something horrible, but keeps it quiet and they continue their march. They are accosted by a giant spider monster and flee for their lives. As the spider squeals at them, Ezran comes to a realization. He says that something is not right... in a good way. He tells them that the crazy chitters and screams of the spider are not how spiders talk. He runs right up to the spider, which screeches in his face. He shouts at it, but instead of attacking, it just screams back, blowing wind on him. He keeps shouting, telling Callum that it's fun. Callum realizes that he is right. He tells him that he owes him an apology. Ezran agrees that he owes him at least one. He tells him that if he really means it, then has to do "the thing." So, Ezran does "the thing" - his "famous jerkface dance." He makes goofy faces and dances around. As he does so, Rayla asks Ezran what the spider is doing there if it's fake. Ezran replies that it's cheering for the jerkface dance and wants more, telling Callum "knees higher." They continue to the tree, and are met by Lujanne, a Moonshadow Elf, and her Moon Phoenix, Phoe-Phoe. Seeing this, Rayla comments that Ezran was right about everything, as Moonshadow Elves are illusionists. She's a fake. The elf tells them that she is indeed no healer, explaining that Ava's replaced leg is an illusion. Ezran despairs. He shows her the egg, explaining that they need a real healer. She says that the only chance to save it would be to hatch it, but a sky dragon has to be born in the eye of a storm. Ezran shakes his head, saying there has to be a way to save it. Rayla cries, saying she let them down, but he hugs her, saying that she's good and brave. Callum comes to a realization and uses his magic to create a storm. Ezran shouts as the wind from the storm blows the egg away, but Rayla saves it. He watches with the others in awe as the egg crackles and hatches. The dragon, Zym emerges and he has Bait lick open his eyes. He leaps on Bait, then to Ezran, licking him. Ezran says that he knows his own name, Azymondias. He says that they will call him "Zym." He introduces him to Rayla, saying that she saved him, then watches in awe as he tears off her assassin binding.

## Book Two - Sky

### A Secret and a Spark

Ezran and the group, minus Rayla, sit down to a feast prepared by Lujanne. He tells her that she has the best food and asks her what her secret is. She tells him that the secret is that it's all fake, explaining that their eating grubs. Ezran, not quite processing this, says that she must mean grub as in "Wow, this is some good grub." For explanation, she points out the real grubs that Bait, Zym and her Moon Phoenix, Phoe-Phoe are eating. He stops eating, clutches his stomach, and vomits. When Rayla shows up, saying that it's time to go, Ezran protests, asking why. She replies that danger is coming for them. She points out that they still need to deliver Zym to his mother and he tells her that he's little and needs to learn how to fly. Lujanne suggests that he teach him. Ezran agrees to try.

Rayla agrees that they can stay one extra day. While Callum goes off with Lujanne to learn more about magic, Ezran gets to work on trying to teach Zym to fly. He stations the dragon atop a rock, telling him that flying is natural and beautiful. but won't be easy. He encourages him to flap his wings, but he just sits on the rock. He eventually just leaps onto Ezran's chest, which Ezran calls "a very good start." Later, he decides to try a new tack, bringing in Phoe-Phoe as a guest. He picks up Zym and runs around with him to show him what flying feels like. He tosses him and he lands inside a bush, having not tried to fly at all. Ellis shouts that he killed him, but he turns out to be just fine. That evening, he meets up with Rayla, who asks if Zym can fly now that he's had a full day of training. Ezran admits that he can't, but says that he's doing his best and so is Zym. She tells him that they're leaving the next day either way. Ezran agrees that they should all get some rest then, but she tells him she's going out for one more perimeter check. Before they go to bed, Ezran tells Zym that they're not giving up. Hearing Ezran's words inspires Callum to not give up either on his dream of learning magic.

### Half Moon Lies

When Claudia and Soren find the group, Ezran expresses his disbelief, saying that he hopes Claudia's not mad at Callum, seeing as he chained her to a wall the last time they met, then stole and broke her Primal Stone. Callum asks how his hair looks and he asks if he's trying to impress Claudia. When Rayla asks about the egg, Ezran shows her Zym. Later, he, Zym and Bait play with Ellis and Ava. Soren shows up, suggesting that they do something "super fun" together, though he warns that accidents may occur. Ellis agrees right away, but Ezran is skeptical. He shows Ezran a zip line, which he calls "the Slidey-Sling Go-Fast Rope." Ezran asks if he's sure that it's going to hold, saying that Zym is nervous. He goes across it himself to demonstrate it being fine and Ezran agrees to try it, thinking that it's a good opportunity for Zym to feel what flying is like. They slide across, but at the other end, Ezran chastises Zym for not having opened his wings, which was supposed to be the whole point. Soren suggests that they go again and this time, go first. Ezran does so and as he does, he moves to loosen the peg holding the zip line, but is intercepted by Rayla. Her intervention likely saves Ezran and Zym from a nasty fall.

### Smoke and Mirrors

When Ezran awakes in the morning, he tells Callum that he had another weird dream. He was running from the giant taffy hippo, the baker Barius riding on its back and telling him he was wanted for "crimes against dessert." Callum asks him to go for a walk, struggling to tell him the news that he has just learned that their father, King Harrow, is dead. He tells him that in life and growing up, there are sometimes changes you don't expect. Ezran asks if this about sandwiches and Callum assures him that it is most definitely not. He tells him that he treated him like a little kid for a long time, and it wasn't fair. He says he's proud of him, but sometimes when you grow up, you have to face things you're not ready for. Ezran tells him that he knows and he's surprised. Ezran, however, continues that everyone's counting on him to teach Ezran to fly, but this is only the start. He's going to have to teach him everything he's supposed to be and do, something he would normally learn from the king of the dragons. Callum tells him that they're all there for him. Ezran replies that it means a lot, but he wishes that their father were there to help him. He says that his father would know what to do. Callum cries at this, telling Ezran that he really misses him too.

Since Zym is still unable to fly, Ezran decides to try to transport him in the same backpack that he carried him in when he was an egg. The idea doesn't work well at first, as Zym keep escaping from the backpack. Later, Claudia and Soren want to come with the group as they continue their journey, but it turns out to be a trap. They all escape thanks to Lujanne's illusions and the help of Ellis and Ava. After they win free and clear, riding on the back of Phoe-Phoe, Ezran releases Zym, who he finally managed to get to go into the pouch. He hugs him and holds him up in the air, telling him to spread his wings to see what flying feels like.

### Voyage of the Ruthless

The group continues to fly on Phoe-Phoe, Ezran having a nap and hugging Bait. They suddenly experience a rapid descent and Ezran falls off a cliff, but is grabbed and saved by Rayla, who in turn was grabbed by Callum. Back on solid land, Ezran speaks with Phoe-Phoe, who tells him that she's just tired because she gets her power from the Moon Nexus and the further away they go, the harder it is to carry everyone. He thanks her for getting them so far and she flies away. He asks what they do now and Rayla explains that their journey must continue across the sea.

They reach the edge of a local village, Ezran saying that they need a boat and a captain to make it go. Rayla once again takes up her human disguise and Ezran shouts excitedly, telling Zym that he's a huge fan of human Rayla. He laughs at Rayla's impressions of humans, agreeing with her comment that humans love finding pathways to go slightly faster. Callum grabs him, saying that they will go find a sea captain together, then drags him away. They return and get Rayla, introducing her to Villads, who will never see that she's an elf because he can't see anything at all, being blind. They all board his vessel, *The Ruthless* and set sail. As they sail into a storm, Ezran looks pained as they bear the rough waters. He notes that Rayla is turning different colors, asking if it's her Moonshadow form. She tells him that it is, in fact, her "rare Glow Toad impersonation." Later, during a choppy moment, he witnesses Villads parrot, Berto, tie a rope around a pole and expresses astonishment at the bird saying the word "Squawk" out loud. He travels below-deck with Bait, Villads and Berto to wait out the storm, while Callum goes out to face the storm. When Callum finally returns, with a limp Zym, he is shocked to see his downcast face and asked what happened. He gasps in shock when Callum explains that Zym got struck by lightning, then chuckles in relief when Zym sits up and hiccups lightning and Callum says that he thinks he's okay. Callum hands Zym to him and Zym chitters happily as he nuzzles him.

### Breaking the Seal

As the group continues their slow voyage across the sea, Ezran sighs and droops his head, while Zym and Bait rest next to him. He cheers as Villads says that he can smell land. When he says that it's still about a full day of sailing before they reach the shore, Ezran picks up Zym, asking if he wants to go and count clouds again. Zym snores in response and Ezran agrees they can nap some more. Later he lies on the deck of the ship next to Zym, tossing and turning in sync with him. Both scratch their faces and yawn, then turn over and sleep side-by-side in the same pose. Bait settles on top of him, but is knocked off when both of them raise their arms in unison.

In a flashback, he sits as a baby in Harrow's arms as a crowd cheers Harrow's crowning, Callum and Sarai standing beside them. Later, when Harrow brings Sarai a plate of jelly tarts in bed, baby Ezran snatches one and eats it, getting jelly all over his face. Harrow comments that he's inherited Sarai's sweet tooth. He calls Ezran a lucky boy, having been born a prince as he was, but laments that there are so many in the kingdom who have been born with less.

### Heart of a Titan

Having read the letter from his stepfather, King Harrow, Callum finds Ezran still sleeping on the deck and wakes him. He hugs him, telling him that he's his brother and he means everything to him. Ezran asks him if it's a trick and he replies that he just loves him. Ezran says that he loves him too and asks if they're close to land. Villads sniffs and says that they are, that he smells land. He stares in astonishment as the group sees the shadow of a large, winged creature in the sky.

### Fire and Fury

The group rests at a cave, having departed with *The Ruthless*. Ezran wakes sleepily as they hear the growling of a dragon and races after Rayla, who heads off in pursuit of the commotion. As Zym starts to follow, he tells him to stay, as they don't know if its safe for him to come. He tells Bait to stay there with Zym in the cave. They race to the outskirts of a nearby village and watch as Pyrrah a large, red dragon, is shot down from the sky using dark magic. Ezran runs after the dragon and finds her lying in a clearing. Callum asks if she's dead, but Ezran approaches her and touches her snout. She groans and opens an eye.

Ezran tells the dragon that she's in pain, but he can help her. He gives her a hug and then runs over, showing that there's an arrow in the dragon's wing. He lifts up the wing with Callum and Rayla's aid and pulls out the arrow. As human forces approach, Ezran agrees with Callum's assessment that they can't take them on and they have to get back to Zym. They watch from the shadows of a tree for a bit before leaving. Back at the camp, Ezran and Zym share a happy reunion. As Rayla runs off and faces the human forces on her own, Ezran nuzzles Zym and asks Callum what he's doing. Callum replies that he's drawing, saying that he draws when he's upset. Ezran then stops Zym from following when Callum runs off to aid Rayla. He plays a game of hide-sand-seek with Bait and Zym, once again finding him easily because Bait glows while hidden inside a bush. He despairs when he can't find Zym, saying that hide-and-seek was a really bad idea. He eventually catches up with Zym, who has run off to try to help Pyrrah. The dragon roars at them both, but then she sniffs them and recognizes Ezran. She flaps her wings and flies away. Claudia emerges from behind, telling Ezran that the little dragon is coming with her. She begins chanting a spell in dark magic, but Soren shouts for her to help him, having been injured in the fight with the dragon. She runs to help him, allowing Ezran to escape.

### The Book of Destiny

Rayla urges the group to keep pushing, saying that they could be at the border of Xadia in just a few hours. Ezran, however, wants them to take it easy because Callum's not doing well. Rayla shoots back that it's his own fault for messing with dark magic. Callum collapses and Ezran frowns at his sad state. The group takes refuge again back in the cave, Ezran unhappy that Rayla keeps having a go at Callum. He helps Callum to rest his head as he slips into a world of fragmented dreams and nightmares. He dabs at Callum's eyes as he talks deliriously, saying that it's getting worse. They hear collapsing rocks and are approached by Corvus, who readies to attack Rayla, but stops when he sees Ezran. He lays down his weapons, telling Ezran that Amaya sent him. He greets him as the king, King Ezran, and Ezran's eyes widen in shock. He insists that he's just a prince, but then realizes that Corvus is saying that his father is dead. He tries to deny it, but sees Rayla's expression and runs back. He calls himself an idiot for not having figured it out, as she had two of the assassin's ribbons, but one came out the night they met.

He sees her crying and gasps, asking if Callum knows. She explains that he does, and couldn't tell him. He says he's going for a walk. Corvus tells him that he won't let him go alone. He replies that if he's the king, he has to let him go. He walks off. Rayla tells him that he's not her king, but he is her friend, and she's coming with him. He begs her to just let him be alone and again walks away. Zym starts to pursue, but Bait stops him. He does not return for a really long time and Corvus and Rayla decide that he's missing. He discovers Banther tracks where Ezran's trail should be and thinks Ezran must have been eaten by a Banther, but Rayla laughs, telling him that Ezran is a very special boy and Ezran has caught a ride on a Banther. In the village, Ezran greets Claudia atop said Banther.

### Breathe

She tells him that she never meant to hurt him or Callum. He replies that it was scary how she acted. She tells him that she sorry and he steps down from the Banther, thanking it and telling it that he will be safe. Claudia tells him that she's surprised to see him and even more surprised he wasn't the Banther's dinner. He tells her he has a way with animals and that Banthers are actually pretty friendly. He walks with her, observing a tall tower. She asks if he wants to go up with her. He joins her at the top of the tower, where she asks him why he's there by himself. He starts to tell her about King Harrow's death, but when he hesitates, she tells him that he doesn't have to talk about it if he doesn't want to. She tells him about how her parents split up, and how she would hear them fighting at night, until finally she learned that her mother was moving back to Del Bar. She had to choose between them, but then her mother looked at her father and told her to stay, that this was her home with Soren, that they needed each other. Ezran asks how she could have done that, and Rayla replies that she needed to, to be happy. Ezran tells her that she must miss her. He says that sometimes you have to face changes you don't expect when you grow up, that Callum told him that. They cry together and hug, Claudia saying that she's lucky to have her own brother. A bluebird lands on the top of the castle and Ezran takes it in his hands. Claudia says that he doesn't just have a way with animals, he can talk to them. He admits that he can and she tells him that she needs his help to find milkfruit in the forest to help Soren.

In the forest, Ezran gets advice from a squirrel and finds a milkfruit bush with Claudia. They see a family of deer, which Ezran says love milkfruit. Rayla agrees with this, telling him that Callum needs him and that he should head back. She apologizes again for her past actions, saying that she cares about him and Callum a lot. He leaves her and returns to the cave with Corvus, where he finds Callum awake and using sky magic. Zym leaps on him and licks him, and he says that he loves his "zappy kisses." He compliments Callum on having rediscovered magic. When Corvus says that he serves the young king, Callum is surprised, and Ezran reveals to him that he knows about their father's death. Callum apologizes for not telling him, saying that he tried to but couldn't. Ezran cries and hugs him.

As the group prepares to head off again, packed and ready, Ezran approaches Callum. He tells him that he told him that assassins were coming for their dad, he ran away and hid. Then, when he found out that their father was dead, he ran again. He says that he can't keep running away forever, repeating his words that when you grow up, you have to face things you're not ready for. He tells him that now that he's growing up, he has to go home, and try to make the world better from the throne. He's not going with them to Xadia. Rayla argues that returning Zym is the world's best hope. He replies that she and Callum will do that. Zym will take his place, as he has to take his. They have to go on without him. Corvus tells them that he will travel with Ezran and keep him safe. Ezran hugs Rayla, promising to see her again. He gives Callum a hug. Zym tugs on him. He tells him he is proud of him and that he will grow up to be strong and good. He apologizes for not being able to teach him to fly, but says that he knows he will get it soon. He walks away with Corvus, carrying Bait. Zym tries to tag along after, whimpering. Ezran tells him that he wishes he could come, but he needs to be with his mother, and they both need to go home. He walks off with Corvus, Zym whimpering all the while.

Later, when Ezran and Rayla encounter a secret path of rocks over bubbling lava, Ezran mentally hears Zym's whimpers and realizes that they are in danger of not being able to finish crossing. He gets a mental image and sends a mental message to Zym, telling him to "block the light." Projecting his thoughts, he manages to spur Zym to fly for the first time. Aided by one of Callum's spells, his blocking the light enables Callum and Rayla to see the symbols they need to finish crossing. In the forest, Ezran continues to pretend to fly while being dashed and carried by Corvus. Corvus stops, telling him that he's a weird king. He replies that he knows.

## Book Three - Sun

### Sol Regem

Ezran returns to the castle of Katolis, riding on a Banther with Corvus riding behind him. He then dismounts and takes his seat on the throne while holding Bait. Opeli kneels before him, offering him his crown, and everyone else gathered in the throne room kneels as well.

### The Crown

The next morning, Ezran lies in bed in the palace and Bait nuzzles him awake. He looks around and gets up, staring at the crown, which Bait settles himself inside. He picks it up and carries it outside to a balcony. There, he speaks of Callum and Rayla, saying that they must be in Xadia by now and that someday, they will make it there. He considers the crown, telling Bait he does not know if he is ready for it.

He moves to enter the throne room and as he does so, discovers that two armored guards standing inside raise their axes as he enters. He plays a game with them, entering and exiting to get them to lower and raise the axes, before finally stepping forward and properly entering with Bait. As he approaches the throne, he discovers the baker Barius standing before him holding out a plate of jelly tarts. Barius asks if he may offer him a tart. Ezran asks if it's okay, then says "sure." In response, one of the guards declares that the king requests a tart of jelly. When Ezran asks for another, the guard again declares this and Ezran tells him to stop repeating everything that he says. The second guard then declares that the king requests that he stops repeating. This gets an "uh" from Ezran, and he says sheepishly that he realized as soon as he said it. Barius tells him that he may have as many tarts as he cares for, so he takes a bunch, Bait taking a number as well. Corvus enters and bows to him. Ezran asks him if he'd like a jelly tart, but he declines. Ezran tells him not to worry, that they can have as many as they want, and he says that he wasn't worried. Opeli then greets him. He proceeds to the throne, but when Corvus tries to follow, he is blocked by two more guards with axes. Opeli tells him that High Council meetings are attended only by the council itself and necessary security and no others, unless specifically requested by the king. At that, Ezran says that he requests Corvus specifically and the guards allow him to pass.

He takes the throne, but sets the crown in a box to the side. He asks what they do now. Opeli tells him that the first order of business is to review messages received by the kingdom. She calls for the Crow Lord, but it is the Crow Master who shows up instead, saying that the Crow Lord is taking a personal day. He pulls out a small scroll and Ezran is heartened, thinking that there can't be too much. He despairs, however, when the Crow Lord recites that he has 417 unread messages. At that, another man enters with a cart containing a massive number of scrolls. Opeli suggests to Ezran that if he desires, they could begin with the messages marked "urgent." Ezran agrees that he does desire this.

The messages drag on and Ezran leans on the throne with his head to the side, bored. He yawns as as the Crow Master opens another message, which he seems hesitant to read. Ezran asks what is wrong and the Master tells him he's not comfortable reading the message out loud. Opeli asks him to summarize and he says there's been bad events. Opeli takes the scroll and another describing the bad events. Ezran is shocked to hear the contents of the messages, that there have been successful attacks by assassins in other kingdoms and that King Florian and Queen Fareeda are dead, and King Ahling gravely injured. Xadia is waging war on all of humanity. Just then, the doors are opened to admit an important visitor. A guard appears saying that they've arrested two traitors and need the king's judgment. He steps aside, revealing Claudia and Soren. Ezran is shocked.

He asks why they are chained up. He is told that the high mage Viren is chained up for treason, and it's suspected that Claudia and Soren are involved in the conspiracy. Claudia protests that their father wanted to rescue the princes, not kill them, but this only elicits further suspicion. Opeli asks Ezran to give the order to lock them away, but he replies that he's not really sure what they were trying to do. She tells him he must make a decision and he asks that they be allowed to rest while he decides, and tells her to give them some food. Opeli tells him that it's a mistake and they're too dangerous, that he can't just release them. He agrees that they should keep the chains on until he can make his decision. He says that he's sorry.

Later, he takes an audience with Prince Kasef of Neolandia, the eldest son of King Ahling. The two bow to each other and he says that he heard what happened to his father. Kasef agrees that the tragedy of Ezran's father's loss breaks his heart. They shake hands and Kasef tells him that his army stands outside his city gates, at the ready. Ezran is surprised by this, and Kasef is confused, saying that it was only a week ago that their regent called upon them to unite against the rising Xadian threat. Ezran admits that he's not sure and Kasef sues for a proportionate response to the Xadian threat. Ezran says that they should sue for peace and Kasef astonished, asks why a child is on the throne. He asks to speak to an adult advisor, but Ezran insists he can speak with him. He tells him that if he can't take action against Xadia, he has failed as a king and a son. He says that once King Ezran has proper council, he will make the correct choice, and he will remain, awaiting his decision.

Ezran talks outside with Opeli, telling her he doesn't know what to do. Opeli tells him there's no shame if he is not ready, that nobody blames him for being a child. He tells her that he feels like he's letting everyone down. She suggests a way out, that someone else can take up the burden of ruling for a few years while he focuses on growing up - an appointed regent. She tells him that the crown will be there for him when he's ready, suggesting he just think about it. He tells Bait that it's a lot to handle, asking if he will be his regent. Bait rolls over for a belly rub, and he agrees that he'd be a tyrant. That evening, he stands with Bait at the balcony. He strokes him and then heads back inside, to the throne room. This time, he does not play with the guards, but simply walks in somberly to the room, where Claudia and Soren are awaiting his decision. Opeli asks him if he's given thought to what they discussed. He replies that he has and tells the group that they knew King Harrow as a great king: a leader, a warrior and a champion. He knew him as his dad who loved him. He knew he had to make very hard decisions. He has not gone through the things that made his father the king he was, so he doesn't have to be the king his father was. His father made decisions to keep fighting old battles, but he doesn't want to be that kind of king. He orders Soren and Claudia to be set free, that they will not pay for their father's crimes. He orders their chains removes, and tells Kasef that Katolis will not go to war. They don't have to strike back and can choose peace. Kasef nods at him and leaves, but glares back as he exits. Opeli tells him that peace will require as much strength as war, asking him if he's prepared to defend it. He replies that he is and takes the crown from the box and places it on his head, standing before the throne.

### Ghost

Ezran sits on the steps leading to the throne, playing with Bait, when Kasef enters the room. He sits on the throne, thanking Kasef for coming. Kasef asks why he's summoned him, if he's had change of heart. Ezran tells him that he hasn't, but he wants to tell him something that might change his heart. Kasef tells him to try him and he speaks of how the Dragon Prince, Azymondias, still lives. He tells him that his brother is bringing him back to the Dragon Queen with the help of Rayla. He says that the Dragon Queen's heart will change when she sees her baby. He tells him that there can be peace if they just believe in it. He looks around at his advisers and Corvus gives him a wink. He steps up to him, asking him what he thinks. He replies that Ezran is a little boy putting his hopes in fairy tales. He says that they don't need to throw him out, that they're finished, and stalks off.

### The Midnight Desert

He sits on the throne and takes another audience with Prince Kasef. This time, Kasef tells him that he's there to deliver an ultimatum. Using pieces on game-board, he paints a picture of how all of the Human Kingdoms are being attacked. He tells him that their armies have arrived in Katolis and are ready to wage war on Xadia. He tells Ezran that the ultimatum is that if he does not stand with them, then he stands in their way. He says that they can show Xadia their strength, four armies united as one, but Ezran again tells him that that he will not go to war. Kasef replies that the next morning, three armies will wage war on Katolis and leaves.

Ezran watches from a window as Prince Kasef boards a horse and exits the palace grounds with his forces. Opeli tells him that while Kasef's threat is terrible, they can win. She tells him that their army is the best-trained and most disciplined force in the kingdoms. Though the battle won't be easy, they can triumph. Ezran, however, wonders at what cost. She tells him that it would be a necessary cost, many lives. He demands to know just how many and she tells him that no one can say for sure. He presses her for a number and she tells him that it could be thousands dead, or even tens of thousands. Clutching Bait, he replies that it would be no triumph.

He sits before the throne, head in his hands and considering one of the game pieces from the board. Bait gives him a back massage to try to relieve his tension. He tells Bait that each of the game pieces represents 500 people, some of which are moms and dads. All of them are sons and daughters - sisters, brothers and friends. He knocks over the game piece to demonstrate where they will be after the battle. He asks Bait how he can let this happen. The door opens and Saleer enters, telling him that there may be a way to prevent the bloodshed.

The baker, Barius, is busy preparing jelly tarts when he hears King Ezran's voice. He asks if it's him and looks at the grate, apologizing for having had it fixed up. He breaks it open, releasing Ezran and Bait. He promises to leave it broken in the future and offers Ezran a jelly tart. Ezran tells him it's not why he's there, but he and Bait take some anyway. He asks Barius a favor, leaving Bait in his care. Barius agrees to take care of Bait, providing him with love, understanding and infinite supply of jelly tarts. He thanks the baker and sadly leaves back through the grate, but not before taking a tray of the tarts for the road.

As he stands before throne, Corvus tells him that he doesn't need to do what he's planning, that there's another way. He tells him he will be okay. Opeli asks him if he's sure, as there will be no going back. He declares that he knows what's right and what he has to do. Saleer arrives, telling him that it's all agreed, everything that he asked for. The battle has been called off and there will be no attack at dawn. Those who no longer wish to fight at all will be allowed to lay down their arms and return to their families in peace and safety. He takes off his crown, saying that it's done. "Take him," declares Saleer and the two guards with axes stationed by the throne turn to him and chain his hands. He is marched out of the throne room and into the dungeon, where Viren awaits in a cell. The cell is opened and Viren's handcuffs are unlocked. He opens his eyes, smiles, and gets up. As he exits the cell, Ezran walks in and is chained up in his place. Viren tells him he's sorry it's come to this. Ezran replies that he's not and he admits that he isn't. He leaves and Ezran is left to sit alone in the cell.

### Heroes and Masterminds

Ezran sits alone, chained in the cell. He turns over and lies down, yawning and trying to get some rest. As he tosses and turns, he hears something sliding above. Bait appears in the grate on the ceiling. Ezran tells him that he was hoping he'd be his first visitor. He tells him that he wishes he could come up there with him, raising his hands to show him the handcuffs and chains. Bait walks away briefly, then slides down through the grate a large pile of jelly tarts. He then squeezes through one of the holes in the grate himself. As he sits next to Ezran, Ezran tells him that it isn't so bad. They both munch happily on tarts.

As they continue to feast on tarts and play around, Ezran hears someone coming and orders Bait to hide, warning him not to glow. He shields Bait with his body as a man enters. It's Soren. Bait emerges and Soren tells Ezran that he's there to help and he's going to get him out of there. As he leads him through the dungeon, Ezran asks him why he's doing this. He tells him that his father was a good king. It was his job as crown guard to make sure nothing happened to him, but he failed. He doesn't want to fail Ezran as well. Ezran nods and thanks him. They emerge from a well on the grounds and Soren hides them both in a wheelbarrow of hay. Bait's glowing nearly gives them away, but they make it across a bridge and into the forest. There, they find Corvus, Opeli and Barius waiting for them. Ezran says that he can't believe that they all worked together to save him and Corvus credits it to Soren, telling him that Soren was the mastermind. Soren kneels before Ezran, telling him that he has to go before his father figures things out. Ezran thanks him, telling him he's the best crown guard a king could ask for. He hugs him, and he deaprts with the wheelbarrow of hay.

As Barius packs Ezran with provisions, Corvus tells him he is going back to Xadia to find his brother as soon as his ride gets there. They hear a cawing sound and the ride turns out to be Phoe-Phoe, who has arrived with Lujanne. Ezran bids Opeli goodbye, thanking her for believing in him. She replies that she serves the true king. He apologizes to Corvus, saying that it only took a few days as king for him to mess everything up. Corvus asks if he's kidding, telling him that in his first few days as king, he showed more courage, strength and grace than most leaders show in a lifetime. Barius runs up behind him, squishing him and Bait with a big hug. Lujanne tells him that it's time to go, as Phoe-Phoe will be at her strongest traveling at night. She lifts him and Bait atop Phoe-Phoe and they take off.

### Thunderfall

As Phoe-Phoe flies through the clouds, Ezran tells her that she's been flying all night and she must be exhausted. He asks if she might like to stop and rest, but she just caws. Bait grunts and Ezran asks how it is that *he's* tired. Phoe-Phoe screeches and flies towards the sun.

As they cross the border into Xadia, Ezran calls it the moment he's dreamed of his whole life. He hugs Bait and compliments Phoe-Phoe for having gotten them there safely. She pants heavily and he asks her what's wrong. She lands unsteadily and collapses. He tells her that she's exhausted and sick. He hugs her, saying that she got him and Bait to Xadia and they can find Callum, Rayla and Zym on their own now. He tells her to go home so she can rest and get better, even though Lujanne told her to bring them all the way. She insists that she has to see things through, so he climbs back up on her back. She takes off again.

Phoe-Phoe arrives at the destination, landing before an astonished Callum, Rayla and Zym. Ezran gets off and Zym leaps on him, licking him with his "zappy kisses." Rayla asks him what he's doing there, and he replies that being king isn't all it's cracked up to be. Callum asks if he's hurt, and he replies that he is fine, and he's safe. Phoe-Phoe groans and collapses. She breathes heavily and Ezran despairs at her having flown the whole way there. He tells her that she did good. She exhales and collapses and he begs her to be okay, crying. Everyone hugs him and Phoe-Phoe is immersed in light. She disappears in a flash, leaving only a feather. Ezran realizes that she will be okay, that as a Moon Phoenix and will be reborn when the time is right. Later, he plays with Zym, which gives Callum and Rayla hope, even as they witness the petrified form of Avizandum, who killed Callum's mother.

In a flashback of Viren, King Harrow pretends to play a game of hide-and-seek with Bait, who is sitting on his head. Ezran, not much younger than he is now, giggles while sitting hidden in a corner. The three enjoy a couple more joyful moments, before Ezran is asked to leave the room so his father can meet with Viren.

### Hearts of Cinder

The group reaches the Storm Spire, home of the Dragon Queen Zubeia and Zym yips in fear, flying into Ezran's arms. Ezran tells him to not worry, that he's about to meet his mother. As the group grows tired climbing up the Spire and Rayla suggests a rest, Ezran tells her that they can't stop, that they have to keep going. Showing resolve, he presses on even as Callum and Rayla stand panting.

As they continue their increasingly draining trudge, even Ezran collapses. Zym licks him, waking him up, and then Pyrrah, the red dragon that he aided before appears before them. She paws the ground, then uses her claw to draw a rune in the stone. Ezran considers it, then tells the dragon that he understands. He then goes and wakes Callum, telling him that he knows how to fix everything. He reveals to Callum the rune and the trigger words "Ventus Spiralis" Callum uses the spell, and they are all able to breathe properly again. They reach the top of the Spire and present Zym to the elf that they meet there, Ezran telling him that Zym is there to see his mother. The elf says replies that seeing them makes his heart leap, but they're too late. Ezran frowns at his words.

### Dragonguard

After the elf introduces himself as Ibis and informs the group that Zubeia has fallen into a deep slumber, due to her grief, Ezran makes his way to the dragon lair with the others. When Zym gets anxious, Ezran tells him not to worry about meeting his mother and asks him if he is willing to see her yet, then hugs him when the dragonling jumps into his arms, signaling that is not ready yet. He reassures his friend that he understands and enters the lair without him, leaving Bait with him.

The group heads inside and stands before the snoozing Zubeia. Ezran steps forward and slowly places his hand on her snout, closing his eyes. He tells her to wake up, that her baby's there. He tells her she has to wake up, but gets no reaction. As Rayla and Callum leave the cave, he remains with her. Later, Soren climbs the Storm Spire, seeking to aid Ezran. He is met by Pyrrah, thinking she has come to finish him off, but it turns out that Ezran is riding the dragon. He picks up Soren and flies him back to Callum, so that Callum can perform the "Ventus Spiralis" spell, allowing him to breathe.

Soren tells them that their all doomed, explaining that Viren is marching their way with an army of soldiers enhanced by Sunfire Elf magic. Ezran asks what he means and he describes soldiers that are stronger and angrier with big claws, an army of darkness that is headed their way. That evening, the group gathers to discuss their situation - that they have the choice to either run and try to hide away Zym somewhere, or stay and fight. They make the choice to stay and Aunt Amaya arrives with one of the Sunfire Elves, Janai, the Golden Knight of Lux Aurea. Ezran gives her a hug. The group girds themselves for the battle to come, Ezran taking his place atop Pyrrah. He tells the group that they're going to go find more help, "big help." Callum comments that his little brother is all grown up and riding dragons. They fly off into the night.

### The Final Battle

As the big battle is well underway, a group of dragons appears in the sky, led by Ezran riding Pyrrah. The elven forces and others on the side of the Dragon Queen are cheered by their arrival, but Ezran watches, shocked when the enhanced soldiers are only emboldened and strengthened by the dragons' fiery assault. He starts to come in for landing, but Soren shouts that he shouldn't land. Several of the dragons are captured by projectile chains, but he and his dragon manage to escape. As the battle continues, he surges overhead as new forces led by Opeli enter the fray. He then comes in for a landing, meeting Callum. The two hug, and they ask each other if they're okay. Callum tells him that he thought in the morning they were doomed, then he thought they were saved by the dragons, then they were doomed again, but now they're okay. Ezran agrees that it feels great to not be doomed. He tells him to go to Rayla, that he's "got this," and takes off again on the dragon.

He heads to the battlefield, where things appear to be wrapping up, and spots Claudia. He tells her to wait, but she flees. He trips over a man lying prostrate on the ground. He asks if he's okay, offering to help him, but the man turns out to be Viren. He rises menacingly and raises his pointed staff to impale Ezran. Soren rushes forward, sword out, telling him to drop the staff and that it's over, that he is a Crown Guard and Ezran is a true king. Claudia shouts that he's making a mistake and the two stand framing Ezran. Viren growls and lunges for the blow. Ezran cowers, covering his eyes, and Soren stabs Viren. Ezran uncovers his eyes, surprised to be okay. He watches as Viren stumbles back, bloodied, and collapses. Ezran gets up, asking why Viren would try to hurt him when it was clear that he couldn't win, that the battle was over. Claudia tells him that the real battle was never down there. It was just a distraction. Ezran watches as the body of the supposed Viren disappears in a flash of dark smoke, leaving behind only moths. Soren demands to know where Viren is and when Claudia just stares, Ezran gets a flash of Zym whimpering in fear and Rayla fighting Viren. He shouts that Zym is in danger.

Zym is ultimately saved thanks to the efforts of Callum, Rayla and Bait. Ezran joins the assembled victorious forces in the cave where Zubeia rests, alongside Soren. He steps forward and everyone stands at attention, bowing in fealty.. Zym leaps into his arms and he tells him he's happy to see him too. He gets a hug from Callum and Rayla and picks up Bait. He says that he can't believe everything that's happened, that in the end, they did it. There is a loud rumbling and the group heads forward, led by Zym. Ezran watches in astonishment with the others as Zubeia awakens and meets her child, then addresses the crowd in thanks.

## Through the Moon

Ezran receives a letter from Lujanne, requesting him to deliver Phoe-Phoe's feather to the Moon Nexus, where a ritual would initiate her rebirth. After leaving Opeli a message that he would be heading out, as she would need to cover his kingly duties for him, he joins Rayla, Callum, Bait, and Soren on their journey there. Upon arriving there, the boy is pranked by Lujanne with the others, then wishes to hand over the ghost feather while expressing his gratitude for Phoe-Phoe's sacrifice. However, he is asked to hold onto it until it would be time for the ritual. Ezran shares a meal with the group after, where he has to stop Bait from eating the feather after it is blown off the table.

When the time for the ritual comes, Ezran puts the ghost feather on the water, which turns into an egg. When the egg cracks, Lujanne pours the chick into Ezran's palms, where he welcomes the reborn Phoe-Phoe. He continues to carry her around on his shoulder and in his arms from then on. The next day, he watches Allen and Soren sparring in the forest. At nightfall, after Rayla and Callum have tricked Allen into helping them reconstruct parts of the Moonhenge, Ezran witnesses Rayla threaten to be sucked into the world between life and death for good. Knowing Moon Phoenixes are tethered to both life and death at once, he suggest that his brother takes her feather to enter the otherworldly realm and save Rayla. When the two eventually reemerge, he is relieved to find that they are fine.

## The Royal Council

Ezran, Bait, and Azymondias have successfully pulled off one of their famous jelly tart heists, a first for the young dragonling. While the three gather on Ezran's bed to pridefully inspect their haul, the young king remembers that they are supposed to have manners now and retrieves three mosaic plates from the bedside table, which were crafted by his mother Sarai and kept near where she had slept in case her own sweet tooth got the better of her - a story Harrow had told his son.

Ezran gathers the jelly tarts on plates for his friend and calls a meeting of the Jelly Tart Council. Their first oder: to consume their stolen treats. While Zym and Bait gobble their snacks away quickly, they grow concerned for Ezran when he takes too much time finishing up himself, suggesting that he is lost in thought. His thoughts are with his coronation, the second one he has to endure. As Viren had stolen the crown of King Harrow, however, Ezran would instead receive his father's sword this time. However, he worries that swords are a symbol for war, wanting to not repeat his father's mistakes, all while not forgetting him either. When Bait suggests that he should just change it, Ezran fails to understand him at first, watching Zym flip one of the plates onto the Glow Toad's head like a hat. While he first does not understand how he could turn a sword into a hat, he soon understands that his friends are trying to remind him that he can remember parts of Harrow without having to follow into his footsteps, and that his sword can become something new like the plates her mother had once crafted from other materials. While embracing his friends in the most heartfelt hug, he thanks them for their input. Realizing the sword could become a symbol of something other than fighting, he decides to want to find a metalsmith who can help him with acquiring his new crown and become king once more.

## Deep Below

Ezran is accompanied by Bait, Zym, Soren, Corvus, and Pyrrah in searching for the Siren Stone inside the Arcus Vault. Right when Ezran is about to enter the vault, he asks Zubeia on why she is not going to join them. Zubeia reveals that some of the treasures inside the Arcus Vault hold complicated history and that Ezran will someday understand the pain. As the group explored the Arcus Vault, Ezran is amused when Soren goofs around with an elven helmet before he comes across a Shadowhawk. Ezran soon recalls the white binding that Rayla had, but the red coloration of the Shadowhawk makes him remember about the night when Runaan killed Harrow. The group eventually finds the chest that houses the Siren Stone as Pyrrah telepathically reveals its complicated history to Ezran. As the group carries the chest out from the Arcus Vault, Ezran returns to the Shadowhawk that carried the message of his father's assassination and stomps it angrily with his boot.

## Book Four - Earth

### Rebirthday

During the High Council meeting, Ezran welcomes Barius as Katolis's Minister of Crusts and Jellies before announcing to everyone that Zubeia and Azymondias are coming to Katolis as special guests. Most of the humans are anxious about having dragons in Katolis, but Ezran assures them that Zubeia's compassionate nature will change everyone's perspective on dragons, and it can become a first step towards building trust and peace between the Human Kingdoms and Xadia. Ezran also wants everyone to come with ideas for making the dragons' visit amazing for the next day's High Council meeting.

Later in the evening, Ezran joins everyone in the castle in throwing a surprise birthday party for Callum. At the party, Ezran and several others witness two children performing the new dance craze that Soren mentioned earlier before asking Bait about Callum's current whereabouts. Ezran finds Callum brooding on the balcony because his birthday is just the anniversary of the day Rayla left him. Ezran comforts Callum by saying that Rayla is alive and she still loves him no matter where she is.

### Fallen Stars

Ezran is in the courtyard with Corvus when he witnesses Callum's excitement on finally acquiring the Tome of Translation. Corvus then asks Ezran on whether inviting Zubeia to Katolis is a catalyst for growing trust and peace across between Xadia and the Human Kingdoms or if it is just an excuse for Zym to come visit. Ezran answers that both ideas are correct, for it has been four months since he last saw Zym and that he wants to squeeze the dragonling's zappy little cheeks to show how much he misses him.

### Breathtaking

As the people of Katolis are preparing for the festivities, Ezran asks Barius if he has seen Callum since the young mage is supposed to welcome the dragons in the opening ceremony. Opeli then takes Ezran for a private conversation regarding the gift ceremony in the Valley of Graves. After she expressed her concern about celebrating peace where several Katolian royalties were buried after being killed by dragons, Ezran assures her that the festivities is the start of a great era of peace. Soon after, Zubeia, Zym, and Pyrrah arrive in Katolis with Ezran happily welcoming them to his kingdom. Ezran listens to Soren's effort of stalling time for Callum to appear with standup comedy and witnesses Callum accidentally causing the giant jelly tart that Barius prepared with his fireworks.

At the Valley of Graves, Ezran tells the dragons that he has a gift for them to symbolize the hope and friendship they share. He removes a shroud to reveal a painting of Zubeia. However, the portion of the painting with Zubeia's head has been ripped. Soren demands that the culprit confess their crime, but Ezran stops him. He tells Zubeia that he forgot something important, that there are many people who are still hurt by their history. He talks about his own sorrow over the loss his father, King Harrow, saying that it is a chain of suffering that has to stop, but that they must acknowledge the pain. Corvus then performs a song titled "A Song of Love and Loss". Zubeia expresses her support for Ezran's speech. Rayla then suddenly appears, having already met with Callum but not yet having revealed herself to anyone else. As Ezran and Rayla embrace, the ceremony is suddenly interrupted by an urgent message from Ibis that alerts everyone about the potential return of Aaravos, the "Fallen Star".

### Through the Looking Glass

Zubeia announces her intention to leave immediately with Azymondias in order to look into the threat of Aaravos. Ezran tries to persuade them to stay so that they can research the matter together, but Zubeia is adamant. Opeli then suggests that Ezran might accompany the dragons. Ezran is wary, but she assures him that the High Council can handle matters in their absence. Thus, it is agreed and Team Zym reforms, with Callum, Rayla and Soren all accompanying.

During the journey to the Storm Spire, Ezran is introduced to Stella and inquires about the term "Fallen Star". Zubeia explains the history of Aaravos and how he was imprisoned for orchestrating many great crises for a thousand years. They then arrive at the Storm Spire, where Ezran points out the presence of a person on the pinnacle. This turns out to be the deceased Ibis and they all share a hug to try to comfort each other over his loss. Later, the group uses the magic mirror brought by Callum to peer into Aaravos's prison and Ezran watches helplessly with the others as Aaravos takes control of Callum and mocks them all before shattering the mirror.

### The Great Gates

Following a funeral for Ibis, the group holds a meeting. Zubeia explains that each Archdragon holds a clue to the location of Aaravos's prison and thus the group, minus Zym, sets off to find Rex Igneous, the Archdragon of the Earth. When Ezran approaches the Great Gates of the mountain Umber Tor, the lair of Rex Igneous, the group is confronted by the guardians Terbium and Chert. They try to stop their entrance, but Zubeia demands the guardians to open the gates for them. They discover that a landslide has blocked the entrance, but learn of the existence of a smaller secret entrance deep within the Drakewood, one Zubeia cannot fit through. Before the group leaves her, Zubeia advises Ezran to choose his words carefully when speaking with Rex Igneous.

Later, as the group camps in the Drakewood, Ezran notices something off with Callum. He asks him if he wants to talk about and he tells Ezran that whenever he closes his eyes he finds himself "back in that moment." Ezran believes him to be speaking about his troubles with Rayla's return after her long absence, but Callum explains that he's actually talking about having been possessed by Aaravos. He admits, however, to not knowing how to feel about Rayla's return either. The two of them then wonder about Soren's absence, but Rayla dismisses it as nothing, none of them knowing that he has been thrown into the Pit of Despair by the Drakeriders.

### The Drakewood

In the morning, as Callum scolds Rayla for her carelessness at losing track of Soren, Ezran climbs a tree and detects the arrival of Zym, who followed them there. Callum scolds Zym for being disobedient to his mother, but Ezran suggests that Zym can help them. Callum then suggests that Ezran use his ability to see through Zym's eyes to scout for Soren.

Through Zym's eyes, Ezran spots pieces of Soren's armor. Zym, however, is attacked and downed by the Drakeriders and the group despairs until Ezran reminds them each of their respective positions. He then uses Bait to blind one of the Drakeriders, Warlon, and the group manages to reunite with Zym, only to find him being held captive by a young Earthblood Elf named N'than. N'than, however, admits to not being able to complete the deed and allows Zym to go free. N'than then agrees to guide Ezran and the rest of Team Zym to Rex Igneous.

### Beneath the Surface

The group tackles a series of obstacles in order to reach Rex Igneous. At one point, they must cross a bridge in utter darkness, leading Ezran to suggest using Bait in order to provide a light source. N'than, however, vetoes the idea due to the presence of creatures that attack in the presence of light. Ultimately, the creatures end up attacking anyway, but the group successfully evades and succeeds in making their way through.

### Rex Igneous

Zym informs Ezran through their connection that Rex Igneous and his father, Avizandum, were not on the best of terms. As such, the group uses magic to disguise Zym as a dog so as not to upset the Archdragon. Upon meeting Rex Igneous, they discover to their chagrin that they must present him with gifts in order to speak with him. Ezran offers his crown, stating that it had been forged from the sword of his father, King Harrow. Rex Igneous, however, is dismissive of this and the other gifts offered him, stating that he has piles of useless treasures and so the gifts are nothing to him. Ezran then offers him a new type of tart, a brown sludge tart, baked by Barius. This gift impresses Rex Igneous, as it is something new to him.

Rex Igneous finally grants the group an audience. He bursts into laughter when Ezran asks him for the location of Aaravos's prison, asking why he should reveal the location of the most dangerous being in Xadia to a group of children. He reacts angrily when Ezran states that they have been sent by Zubeia. Rex starts mocking Avizandum, causing Zym to bite him. When he shakes him off, it breaks the disguise, enraging him further, until Ezran informs him that Avizandum is dead. This softens Rex Igneous, who admits that despite his current feelings regarding Avizandum, they were once friends. He then compliments Ezran for bearing a resemblance the human girl who helped the inhabitants of Xadia in uncovering Aaravos's schemes. Rex then tells them that he does not know the location of Aaravos's prison despite being granted the knowledge. Callum realizes that this is some sort of riddle, but before they can act, Claudia arrives and plays a spell that puts everyone but Zym to sleep.

### Escape from Umber Tor

After waking up, Rex Igneous is furious, believing that Team Zym betrayed him. He begins rampaging as Ezran tries to soothe him, but his words have no effect and the group is forced to flee while Rayla and Stella go off to kill the resurrected Viren. Ezran and the rest of Team Zym eventually force the Great Gates to open and successfully escape Umber Tor, only for Rex Igneous to burst through and corners them. Before Rex Igneous can kill Ezran and his friends, Zubeia descends from the sky and intimidates the Archdragon of the Earth to retreat back into Umber Tor. Rayla and Stella eventually emerge from the rubble, which allows Ezran and the rest of Team Zym to welcome them back with a group hug.

## Book Five - Ocean

### Domina Profundis

Ezran joins Soren, Corvus, Zym, and Zubeia in their flight to an ancient rune-beacon on the eastern coast of Xadia. Upon arriving, Soren and Corvus carry the ornate chest containing the Siren Stone to the top of the rune-beacon before Ezran uses it to summon Domina Profundis, the Archdragon of the Ocean. After Zubeia clarifies that Ezran is a king, Domina helps Ezran and his group by revealing the true nature of Aaravos's prison.

### Old Wounds

Inside the Storm Spire, Ezran is rehearsing for the big speech he will make when he meets with the dragons of Xadia before he asks Soren and Corvus for the best choice of words. When Ezran asks whether he should use "beseech" or "entreat" in his speech, Soren is corrected by Corvus that the word "entreat" does not involve treats. Soren believes that Ezran should not burden himself and he deserves to spend time as a regular child so he will not grow up as a weird person. Ezran is oblivious that he did not laugh when he said the word "duty", though he gives in to the humor after Corvus explained Soren's giggles. Corvus eventually joins the laughter upon noting that Ezran said "I shall not be deterred".

### Nightmares & Revelations

Zubeia takes Ezran, Zym, Soren, and Corvus to a large clearing before she lets out a powerful roar that summons the dragons of Xadia to gather before her. Once the dragons have settled, Zubeia allows Ezran to beseech them into finding Claudia and Viren so that Aaravos will not be liberated from his prison. After a moment of silence, all of the dragons let out roars of agreement, much to Ezran's delight.

### The Great Bookery

Ezran and the rest of his group fly to the Great Bookery of Lux Aurea to rescue Callum, Rayla, Bait, Stella, and Amaya from the corrupted Banthers. Ezran encourages Amaya to climb onto Zubeia until her shouting "Go!" convinces him to leave without her. Ezran lets out a smile of relief knowing that Amaya and Corvus managed to shelter themselves inside the book drop.

### Archmage Akiyu

On the pinnacle of the Storm Spire, Ezran and Zym inform Callum, Rayla, and Stella that Domina Profundis revealed the true nature of Aaravos's prison. The Archdragon of the Ocean also revealed that Akiyu, the great Tidebound Elf Archmage who built the prison, might also know of its location. Ezran suggests that Team Zym should meet Akiyu so that they can find the prison before Claudia and Viren. However, Callum proposes that Team Zym should travel to the Star Scraper, an incredibly tall tower located far north beyond the Frozen Sea that is home to an ancient sect of Skywing Elves called the Celestial Elves who are guarding the Nova Blade, the magical sword that possesses the power to kill Startouch Elves. Ezran thinks that killing Aaravos with the Nova Blade should be a last resort and that they can find the prison without violence, but Callum believes that Claudia's head start might have allowed her to free Aaravos first. Rayla is annoyed that she will be the deciding vote for Team Zym's next move, but she agrees with Ezran's suggestion of finding Akiyu first. Ezran then enters the lair of the Storm Spire to announce their next mission to Bait, Soren, and Zubeia.

After arriving at the tide pools where Akiyu resides, Ezran introduces Team Zym to one of the Giant Sea Slugs before using empty large shells to sneak past the hungry Carrion Gulls. The group then comes across an elderly Tidebound Elf who scares the Carrion Gulls away. When Ezran asks the Tidebound Elf if she is the legendary Archmage Akiyu, she laughs at the idea and introduces herself as "Tidebound Tina". Tina agrees to take Team Zym to Akiyu after they revealed their intention of finding Aaravos's prison, only to secretly tricking them into entering the esophagus of a large sea creature. Upon realizing this, an angered Zym emits a large amount of electricity to zap the creature's stomach, which forces it to spit him and his friends out before Tina reveals herself as Akiyu. Ezran asks Akiyu on her desire to kill them before she reveals that she is willing to do anything so that nobody can discover the location of Aaravos's prison. Since Akiyu could not kill Team Zym, she attempted to overdose herself with magi-kelp glow-juice shot to take the secrets to her grave. However, upon learning that Claudia already knew about the prison's location, Akiyu decides to give Team Zym a map to the Sea of the Castout and gives Callum an enchanted amulet before she orders them to leave. Ezran and his friends then wait for Zubeia to return, but becomes concerned when the Dragon Queen is unable to appear on time.

### Bait & Switch

Upon realizing that Zubeia is unable to rendezvous with Team Zym, Ezran and his friends are forced to travel to Scumport to find a ship captain who is willing to help them sail to the Sea of the Castout. They then disembark from the ferryman's boat as Rayla encourages them to blend in so that they will not draw unwanted attention. Ezran reluctantly takes his crown off since royalties are a rare sight in Scumport. As they walk through the bustling streets, Ezran catches the sight of a promising ship called *Sea Legs* before Rayla clarifies that it belongs to Finnegrin, the Tidebound Elf who rules over Scumport from his tower. Ezran decides to ask for Finnegrin's help alongside Callum and Bait.

Finnegrin's bodyguard Elmer tells Callum's group that no one sees his boss unannounced, but chooses to let Ezran in upon being introduced to Bait. Ezran introduces himself as the King of Katolis before he presents his crown to Finnegrin. Finnegrin laughs since the crown is made of steel before he explains that a person's social status does not matter so long as they offer him something valuable. He is willing to give one of his ships to Ezran if the young king agrees to relinquish Bait in return. When Ezran asks what Finnegrin wants with Bait, the Tidebound Elf elaborates his desire of using the Glow Toad in catching the largest leviathans in Xadia's seas that are worth a lot of gold. Ezran refuses to give Bait up, which prompts Finnegrin to offer a chest with contents that he claims to be three times more valuable than one Glow Toad.

Ezran, Callum, and Bait are returning to their friends when they reunite with Villads and Berto at the harbor. As Villads agrees to help Team Zym in sailing to the Sea of the Castout, Ezran refuses to leave Scumport since he plans to steal something that should not be in Finnegrin's possession. Ezran positions himself near the entrance of Finnegrin's as Zym flies in with the keys to the office. Upon retrieving the chest, Ezran and Zym escape through a window, with the former using his crown to slide down a rope that stretches down from the top of the tower to the marketplace far below. Ezran and Zym board *The Ruthless* and commands Villads to depart from Scumport alongside the rest of Team Zym. Ezran opens the chest and reveals that they have rescued three baby Glow Toads from Finnegrin before he is introduced to Villads's new first mate: the winged Skywing Elf Nyx.

### Sea Legs

*The Ruthless* resumes its voyage to the Sea of the Castout when Ezran is awakened in his cabin by the three baby Glow Toads he rescued from Finnegrin. Ezran ponders on what names should the baby Glow Toads have before he scolds Bait for being jealous. Ezran decides to name the green baby Glow Toad Sneezles due to the sneeze he makes upon seeing sunlight.

Ezran, Soren, and Zym are playing with the baby Glow Toads when Callum's "Aspiro" accidentally causes the blue baby Glow Toad to fall overboard. The situation escalates when a hungry leviathan appears, but Ezran is relieved that Soren and Zym manage to rescue the blue baby Glow Toad. However, they are soon pursued by Finnegrin on *Sea Legs* and Callum uses "Ventus Validus" to hide *The Ruthless* in a nearby fog bank. Ezran also approves Soren in naming the blue baby Glow Toad Hat.

As *The Ruthless* continues to hide in the fog bank, Ezran names the orange baby Glow Toad Jellybug after he ate all of the jelly from the packed tarts. But despite their efforts, *Sea Legs* manages to locate them in the fog bank and causes the pursuit to continue. Ezran is shocked to learn that *Sea Legs* is in fact a Giant Hermit Crab that swiftly catches up to them. Ezran and all of his friends are eventually taken captive after Finnegrin used *Sea Legs* to destroy *The Ruthless*.

### Finnegrin's Wake

When Finnegrin asks Callum on which of his friends' hands will be cut off for stealing the baby Glow Toads, Ezran offers to have one of his hands taken since he was the one who orchestrated the heist. Ezran then tells Soren to stand down when the latter is attempting to persuade Elmer to not be cruel like Finnegrin. Soren's words eventually convinces Elmer to turn against Finnegrin, which prompts him to feed the Tidebound Elf to the leviathan they lured before he helps Ezran and the rest of Team Zym in reclaiming their freedom.

### Infantis Sanguine

As Team Zym uses a rowboat to enter the Sea of the Castout, Ezran assures his friends that they will be the ones to find Aaravos's prison first thanks to the knowledge Domina Profundis provided regarding its true nature. Ezran reveals that the prison is located in the bottom of the Sea of the Castout as Callum realizes the amulet Akiyu gave him is enchanted with a spell that allows its wearer to breathe underwater. Knowing that he might not be capable of finding the prison on his own, Callum decides to paint the amulet's runes on his, Ezran, and Rayla's necks before speaking "Aquis Spirare Faucibus". As the trio plunges into the water, Ezran and Callum succeed in activating the spell, but Rayla's fear of drowning forces her to return to the rowboat. Rayla encourages Ezran and Callum to continue without her as she chooses to stay on the rowboat with Soren, Stella, Bait, Zym, Sneezles, Hat, and Jellybug.

Ezran and Callum dive deeper into the Sea of the Castout as the former befriends a school of fish that agree to guide them to Aaravos's prison. Callum casts a spell that gives him and Ezran the ability to move through the water faster, thus allowing them to follow the fish without falling behind. However, they are soon confronted by Claudia, whose dark magic spell gave her the ability to breathe underwater and transformed the lower half of her body into five large tentacles. Claudia greets Ezran and Callum as if they are her old friends and tries to convince them that all of her actions were done to save her father. She also attempts to persuade them in resurrecting King Harrow before she is forced to drink her potion to replenish the effects of her dark magic spell. Claudia is furious when she realizes that Ezran knows about the prison's true location and knocks Callum out. She then threatens to strangle the young king if he does not reveal anything to her. But before Ezran can say anything, Rayla frees him by shooting Claudia with her arrows. Claudia decides to strangle Rayla first before the school of fish Ezran befriended joins the battle. Enraged, Claudia defeats the fish first before she uses her tentacles to capture Ezran and Callum as well. Upon viewing Ezran glancing at a nearby giant clam, the satisfied Claudia prepares to acquire the prison. However, Stella creates a portal that enables Rayla to retrieve her bowblade and severs the tentacle that is grasping her. Claudia screams in pain and unwillingly frees Ezran and Callum. Callum snatches and destroys Claudia's potion, which forces her to return to the surface as the effects of her spell wears off. Ezran, Callum, Rayla, and Stella share a loving hug before they swim towards the giant clam. Ezran convinces the clam to open its mouth and reveals Aaravos's prison as a beautiful white pearl.

Ezran, Callum, Rayla, and Stella return to the rowboat and reunite with the rest of Team Zym before they gaze upon the pearl that was created to contain Aaravos.

## References

1. ↑ Book Two, Chapter 6: "Heart of a Titan"
2. ↑ Book Three, Chapter 4: "The Midnight Desert"