[IC] [Skybreaker] Lumières Caelum [tenebrae16]

[Skybreaker]

At Path's nod, edge squeezed Sleipnir to let himself know that his young would keep that iron grip. The hydra were slick, Edge knew that much. They wanted to take down the elders, and get Edge back. By attacking them while they were in a group, it was far easier to accomplish both goals at once. Path may not have noticed that, so Edge couldn't blame his honorable mate. Running over to where Skylark was, Edge quickly crouched to speak with him. He cringed as the two great dragons made an impact. Path could hold Beelzebub, but not by himself for long. "Skylark, quickly, now, my love! Hop onto my back, and let's go help Father!" Edge urged.

"B-But Father said-" Edge interrupted him.

"Father doesn't know how the hydra think; I do. Grab. Onto. My. Back. Now." Edge said lowly. Skylark's violet eyes widened as he realized Edge would snap him unconscious and carry him to safety if he didn't obey.

"Y-Yes Daddy." The dragon quickly piped as he gripped Edge's torso alongside his brother. He nodded to Edge to show his hold was firm. He did hope Father wouldn't be upset. Daddy did seem to know what he was doing. Suddenly, Edge rumbled in a low tone, and a black cloud of fog surrounded them. Edge's eyes were glowing like neon in the cloud of gas that smelled of black licorice. Inhaling as much of the substance as he could, Edge felt his muscles stimulate and he bolted toward his mate in order to back him up. His eyes narrowed in distaste. Beelzebub was strong, but Path should have been able to make quick work in disabling him. It appeared that Beelzebub had the upper hand. Grunting at the hydra of wrath, Edge folded his arms to show his displeasure before running and pressing a single hand onto Beelzebub's scaly body, quickly reverting him back into his human form. As the king, Edge had unimaginable power over the other hydra.

Things certainly had changed ever since Edge had died years ago. Beelzebub could smell Edge upon Path, but the young male didn't know of any romantic feelings his subordinate harbored for him. Rather, perhaps it was just his blood lust? With a sigh, Edge took his kids off his back like removing a backpack and leaned down to Beelzebub. "Do you... want me back so badly you would fight a white without using your powers? You're going soft, you old man..." Edge said warmly with a snicker before taking the other's hand in his own and squeezing it.

"Stop this madness at once, Bel. There is no need for such needless violence, regardless on how much you enjoy it. There will be a time in the near future where you will clash against the Elders, but this is not the time. I advise you not to anger me when I'm around my children and my mate. Jeopardize their safety, and I shall vaporize you instantaneously." Edge said with a friendly smile before embracing the hydra. This must have seemed odd to his family, and maybe even to Beelzebub!

[tenebrae16]

He aimed a kick at Beezlebub's stomach when he felt the sudden claw grip his wing blade and froze instinctively. This, however, also allowed Beezlebub to gain a tighter grip on his wing and he winced as he felt those sharp claws dig into his flesh, tearing the thin skin of his wings and ripping the ligaments between his delicately made wing structure. He winced as he felt a sharp pain strike up his back, along the centre of his spine. It was like a thousand needles piercing him all at on call over his body. With a sharp intake of breath, Path kicked the older dragon away. His claws stained blue with the white dragon's blood.

Yes, the white dragons were renowned for their own fearlessness in battle and their powerful body and ferocious bite. They were the warriors of warriors, the kings of the fight, their headstrong nature only outmatched by the red and grey dragons who carried muck more recklessness and ferocity than they. Still, Path had truthfully never been in a real fight with another dragon. He had necked around with the other dragons when he was younger, but that was nothing more than playful teasing and adolescent training. Dueling was a sport among dragons, especially the whites and reds, but Path had never been of age to participate and when he was, the arena and the earth were long wasted away with no one to even challenge. The fight for survival against the mutated beasts of the area had taught him to survive, but hadn't exactly made him an experienced fighter either.

When Beezlebub was nothing more than human, he pushed him off roughly with a kick of his legs, not caring to be too gentle. Getting up, he wearily watched the now human hydra.

"You know I do not care for how I do it, as long as I can kill bloodily." The man growled down at Edge, but his eyes held a grudging if not unwanted respect for his king. Stockily accepting the hug, he sneered, "To think the king of hydras dare flock around such filth. There is only so long you can keep believing this is where you belong, Edge. You and I both know, it is only a matter of time till you have to choose and I hope, my king, you shall choose right." He was, perhaps, the few hydras that would dare speak so boldly out to his king. And even more bold towards any other dragon as he turned to face Path, still watching Beezlebub wearily. He laughed, "Such a weak mate you have my king, frankly Charon thinks you can do better. I will look forward to our meeting in the battle. Adieu."

With that the hydra was gone in the blink of an eye, masked by the smog. Path huffed, then closed his eyes. Sinking back into his smaller form. His back ached horribly like it had been taken out and out back in upside down. And his wings were soaked in blue blood. He very much doubted that a single healing breath of air from Edge would suffice to heal them. Such a brief encounter and yet such a devastating wound....he his his wings, deciding not to cause worry as he walked over to his family.

Sleipnir stared up at his Father, having mostly done as Daddy said and kept his head down against his shoulder, he felt frightened by the cruelty underlining everyone's words. Staring up at Path with large curious eyes, so much like Edge's, "Is Father alright?" He asked softly, to which Path smiled and leaned down to press a kiss to his cheek, then likewise to Skylark as he picked him up, "Yes, Yes, I am fine..let us move on."

[Skybreaker]

Kindness was a virtue, and to the hydra, quite honestly, a waste of time. Unless you were into manipulating others, there was little point in keeping them around. Edge flinched only a bit as Beelzebub spoke. If he hadn't intervened, Path very well might have been dead as of now. Even though Beelzebub wasn't the most respectful of his subjects, he knew how to do his job and he did it well. The hydra was a killer; much unlike Charon or Noire who were instigators more than anything else.

Edge couldn't help but realize that he didn't change one bit. Now, was that a good thing or a bad thing? After the hydra had disappeared, Edge faced Path. He knew the white dragon hated being called weak. Not only that, but Path had many wounds. If Edge simply healed them, what would be the point? The pain would make him stronger, and Edge was sure being pitied by his mate would just make Path sadder.

"I adore you." Edge said to his love softly before picking up Sleipnir. Obviously Path would be fine. Though now that he was wounded, Edge would have to defend them should more hydra or dragons come. If Edge was to be totally honest, he didn't mind fighting. But since his primary weapon was the mist he could expel, he was unable to use it when the kids and Path were around to inhale it. Tenderly, he picked up Sleipnir. "Yeah, we have to keep moving."

Skylark clung to his Father for the next few hours. The four walked in a unanimous silence. Actually, it was only his parents who were doing the walking. After a while, the smell stopped burning his nostrils. Finally, the baby dragon broke the silence. "Daddy can't leave us!"

Edge looked up and smiled nervously. "Listen, Skylark, I said I-" This time Skylark interrupted him.

"Listen to me!" He said through his teeth as his eyes glowed. Edge's own gaze faltered as he struggled for control, but he felt his mind being taken by his son. "N-No... P-Please stop..." he begged pathetically, but Skylark wasn't done.

"Don't fight it, Daddy. It makes you happy..." Losing all control, the hydra gave in.
"Yess....." He said obediently, falling onto his knees before his son. Skylark beamed proudly to his Father and brother. This would solve everything! Now that hey were in control, they could all be happy forever, Sky's power far surpassed Path's.

"Edge, you'll obey me now." Though the Hydra's mind was gone, warm tears rolled down his cheeks. Why was Skylark doing this..? Wouldn't Path or Sleipnir help him...?

"Yes... M-" He fought the word as hard as he could. Skylark should listen to his Dad, not the other way around. But it was pointless. "Yes, Master," He said flatly.

[tenebrae16]

Path managed a smile for his mate, hiding his hurting wing. They had more pressing matters at hand. Holding Skylark close, he nodded at Edge and turned his attention back to the horizon and the great distance they stilk had to cover. Still no shelters or safe havens in sight. At the very least, the smog had cleared up just the slightest bit and the sky above was as bright as it could possibly ever be in this wasteland. So, he was assured that it wouldn't rain on them anytime soon. Maybe their fortunes were finally turning or some great celestial being in the heavens had taken pity on their plight and pilgrimage and decided to give them this one saving grace of a day. Whatever it msy have been ;coincidence or fate, Path was grateful for it.

The silence hung over them thickly, seemingly sewing everyone's lips shut and cutting off their tongues. Pathwas thinking of some way to fill it, of something to say that would start a conversation, but truthfully, there wasn't very much to say, lest they decide to address the elephant in the room and speak of the war. Path worried, still unsure of what side Edge would take, of what side he, himself should take. Unbeknownst to him, Sleipnir was wondering the exact same thing.

The young dragon was still pondering over the hydra's words, wondering exactly what Daddy was going to do. Tightly, he wrapoed his arms around Edge, unwilling to let Daddy go. If they wanted him, Sleipnir would go too! He wasn't going to lose his family like that! So it was with great enthusiasm did he back up his brother when he spoke, "Yeah! Daddy can't go!" Then winced as Skylark commanded Daddy, turning his head to peek at his brother, astonished at his sudden attitude and the power of his eyes, "Sky....?"

He looked back up at Edge, reaching out to wipe away Daddy's tears when he was dropped onto the ground as Edge went slack, "Daddy!" He cried, staring up at Edge. Ignoring the bump on his head, he stood and tugged at Edge's shirt, trying to draw a reaction from Daddy. This was wrong, it felt wrong. Why wasn't Daddy picking him up and saying sorry and rubbing the bump on his head...why was Daddy's eyes so blank?"

Path stared, just as surprised, as his son brought his mate down to his knees. He stared down at the beaming baby dragon that quickly looked away for fear it might happen to him too, "Skylark.., Skylark no, that's...very wrong of you." He stepped over to Edge and placed Skylark down to his tearful brother. Cupping Edge's cheek, he spoke his name, hoping to break the trance just by that. No good, "Edge...Edgey? Can you hear me, it's path,....path-path. Can you hear me? Do you understand? Skylark, undo this...you can't, do this to Daddy. It's bad."

[Skybreaker]

Edge fought for control, but it was pointless. He wanted to kick and scream and beg and roll around in agony, but there was no result. He was totally wrapped around Skylark's little finger as his slave. He wanted to lash out, but the feeling soon subsided and was replaced with the blank desire to do whatever he was told. It was a relaxing feeling, and Edge felt his lips widen into a smile. And why wouldn't he? It was so much easier... simpler... not to think, but to accept whatever he was being told to do. He would tell anything he would hide, and do things he wouldn't imagine doing, under Master's orders...

Skylark's powerful eyes widened. "But Father, Daddy will do whatever we say!" He said in a tone that meant he didn't understand in the slightest. Something nagged at him that Father was angry, but he dismissed it. Edge's stubbornness seemed to pass onto his child. That fiery independence that made the hydra a king in the first place. Well, there was also power, but Skylark attained that as well. He was the nexus of an Elder and the Original Hydra, the finest genes known to dragonkind.

He exchanged a look to Sleipnir. "Daddy... he can be with us forever and not worry about Charon or Beelzebub or anybody. Don't... don't you want that..?" He asked, a bit less sure. Could it be he had angered everyone in is quest to help? A few tears began to form. "I... I'll undo it if you want me to, Father. If you want me to let Daddy make... his own decisions..."

[tenebrae16]

Path stared down at his child, the corners of his mouth turned down in a sad frown and his eyebrows knitted. Slowly, he bent down to face Skylark. Gazes meeting, he was silent in his crouched position before he pulled his son into a hug, "I know, I know you just want Daddy to stay with us, I do too, but...this isn't the way to do it Skylark. Imagine." He pulled back, hands on his child's shoulders, staring at him the way a parent would; scolding but loving at the same time, "Imagine if I made you do something you didn't want to or if I made it so you couldn't be yourself anymore. You wouldn't like that now would you? Being controlled by someone else...it's not nice."

He turned Sleipnir to face them both, the young dragon rubbing his eyes red as his tears dried slowly, addressing them both, "I know you both don't want Daddy to go..neither do I, but trust him. He'll stay for us, he will...Like he said, Daddy won't ever leave you both. Trust in that....Right Edge? You won't leave out family now will you? Tell them..." He had turned to face his still mate, staring into his hollow eyes, he felt a chill go up his spine and he immediately regretted asking such a question. After all, he doubted Edge would leave his children, especially Sleipnir, but he also doubted Edge would stay.

"You'll stay, right Edge?" He asked softly, "For your family, for us?" He knew already, that Edge wouldn't have any choice to say anything other than the truth in this state and he had already come up with more compromising questions than just that, but he held his tongue. It wouldn't be right, to intrude on his Kate's private thoughts and feelings, but....he would know sooner or later wouldn't he? Edge wouldn't keep anything from him. So, there was no harm in asking, just to clear his silly doubt right? His insane stupid worries.

He glanced at his children, then leaned in closer to the entranced hydra, pressing a kiss to his forehead, before he knelt down by his ear and whispered, "You still love me right Edge? You still love me the most right? There...isn't anyone else you would want more, right?" He pulled away, taking a step back to hear his answer. Edge had only wanted someone with soft lips to love, but...what if there was something more to that?

[Skybreaker]

Skylark finally nodded and was about to release Daddy from his control, but Father beat him to it. Or, rather, Father was going to speak to Edge while in this state. But didn't Father just get finished telling him this was not nice...? The young dragon pouted in confusion as he watched his Father, laughing at his questions. Of course Daddy loved him more than anything else!

Somewhere, Edge registered that Path was taking advantage of him. Though he had made Path his slave, he had never invaded his privacy. Deep down, he felt betrayed but he had no option other than to answer his mate. "I... don't know if I'll stay... I'll do what's best for..." Some would think he would say 'the family', but they were mistaken. "For... me.."

Edge didn't even look at his mate as a droplet of drool began to form at the corner of his lips. Slowly and monotonously, he spoke. "I love you, Path. But not as much as I loved my old mate. He was handsome... sexy... strong... and he might still be... alive... And I want... Sleipnir ... more than... you.... I want to take him.... when he grows up... and make him... my mate..." He said emotionlessly.

[tenebrae16]

Path was silent for that moment, then turned and said softly, "Remember none of this. Skylark, bring Daddy back now and the both of you to say nothing." He picked Skylark up and wiped Sleipnir's tears. He felt like crying himself, but that would just prove a point wouldn't it? He supposed, some part of him had already known the truth. He had just ignored it. Sighing, he mustered his smile for Edge, trying to make it as genuine as he could. He wouldn't let his love see through his facade this time. Not anymore.

"Edgey, night is going to fall soon, perhaps we shouldset up camp somewhere, it isn't the best to travel at night, it may be too cold for the young ones. None of us have gotten much sleep anyway." He reasoned, setting Skylark down once more, "Let us build a shelter, I'll take first watch of the night. " He said brightly. Gentle eyes gazing fondly at Edge. In the morning, there'd be war, only because Path knew they would not wait any longer and now neither would he. He had all his options laid out infront of him and he knew what he'd do. For his beloved mate that was to betray him. For the hydra he had fallen for....

Could Edge remember? His first ever request..."When the earth is whole, I wish to die seeing it restored.....seeing my love happy. Yes, it was about time to fulfil that. He glanced at his young. Sleipnir would be well andSkylark....he had a fire. Yes, one that Path would continue to groe for now, but tomorrow....as the great elders rose, planning their attack on the edge of the world, Edge's little paradise. When he joined them, he would fibd some solacd in ripping away shiny black scales...

[Skybreaker]

Skylark fought back a few tears himself. Of all the mean things, he didn't expect Daddy to say that. He almost felt like crying and demanding to know why. Eventually, he did begin to bawl even as he whispered for Daddy to wake up and not remember anything. Continuing to cry, even as Father picked him up and hugged him. This... couldn't be real. Just a few days ago, he thought that his family was as close as possible, but it was obvious that was not the case. He dug his claws into Father's clothes as he sobbed. Then he decided to stop. Daddy loved Sleipnir like a mate, but not him. He huffed out once to calm himself than wiped his eyes. He was silent as his parents spoke.

Violet eyes began to flutter as Edge regained his will and consciousness. The first thing he saw was Sleipnir, so he picked his son up. "Hm? Why am I.. on the ground...?" He wondered aloud dazedly before getting to his feet and grinning at his mate. Path really was handsome... But ever since he had regained his memories, Edge recalled a new face. Eyes that burned with a passionate fire, and skin that always seemed a little scalding. Regnum... "Yeah, you're right." Edge responded softly. He didn't recall anything, though he could feel something was wrong. Deciding not to question it, the hydra shrugged it off.

"A shelter, huh?" Edge placed Sleipnir on his back so he didn't have to worry about him, then looped his arms in a hug to Path from behind. "Let's work together, Path-Path!" Then, in a slightly more hushed tone, he added, "And we have to talk, hm?" Edge then pulled away and told Sleipnir not to step in any debris before placing him on a flat surface on what was once an airplane wing. Interesting... it looked like a Boeing 747 of some kind. He then walked over to Path. "Allow... me?" He asked once before looking up to the sky and clasping his hands together. "Please, stand back..."

With that, Edge raised both hands to the sky and rumbled, "Lend me your strength!!" For one moment, the four of them were about to witness something amazing. The clouds would part, in a space that a needle could barely fit through. Bright, fluorescent moonlight dripped from the opening. The light seemed to surround Edge before the hydra exhaled and the hole in the clouds disappeared, only leaving darkness. Violet eyes trained on a pile of debris. He lifted a single hand and the debris moved itself away. There was muck underneath it, with maggots crawling around. With an audible 'Whump!' Edge lumped over and took off his boots, allowing his bare feet to hit the filthy ground. He stomped around for a bit, and any normal person would wonder what he was doing, stomping around in the filth while making a face that you would see if he was saving the world.

Soon, the muck began to gradually change. Edge no longer stepped in gooey, slimy, black mud, but hard, shiny, white pebbles. Edge leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to a handful of the rocks, and they began to grow in his hands. Scattering them around the rock pit, they soon buried themselves under the ground. He shot a dazzling smile to his awestruck kids and mate. Raising his hands, he twirled in a quick dance for a few moments as something started to change. Where the rocks buried themselves, something began to sprout. Skylark, who was dumbstruck by the entire thing, didn't even know what they could possibly be. As the green sprouts grew, they became hard and flaky. Eventually they were stout little palm trees.

Edge turned back to Path and captured his lips in a sweet kiss, like the ones he wanted to share with Sleipnir. "I can.. also give life, you know. That's how I made my castle, by growing trees and flowers." He looked down and hugged the slightly taller male, feeling his cheek rest comfortably on Path's chest. "I think... I'd want to show it to you someday. Just so we can... you know... get an idea." He then beamed back at Path. "So we can build our own castle together! I love you, Path..." He whispered before taking Sleipnir and putting him on the rock pit. Surprisingly, the small pebbles were like soft sand. "What do you think, Sleigh?" He asked, inventing a new nickname.

[tenebrae16]

Path calmed Skylark, stroking his hair softly. Poor little dragon, 'I shouldn't have brought you into this world either. I'm so sorry...' He smiled turning his head over at his mate, not flinching from his arm touch. Back pressed against Edge's chest, his smile didn't even waver at Edge's hushed whisper. It was alright. Let them talk and talk again, it wouldn't serve much good anyway so really it made no difference. Just for now though, Path, while he still had such a name, would pretend it did. Pretend everything was alright. Just like he did before, still right at the beginning wasn't he? Lying to himself, at the very least, he was 'happier' now. "Whatever you want Edgy, when the children are asleep..."

He grinned and then picked up Skylark, taking a step back; eyes ever fixed on his mate's face. Oh all the wonders Edge could bright to life and still nothing was as amazing as the hydra, himself. Even as Path watched him move the earth with all his silly even laughable dances and motions, Path'd eyes were trained on his mate, ignorant to the beauty springing up around him though perhaps he did note that and shelf it aside. It was a shame though, when he did finally bring his eyes away to glance at the magnificent trees growing proud and tall, the delicate oasis of white pebble and sand...gazing at the saplings of glass starting to shine with dew out from nowhere. Once, he would have marveled at the sight he thought he would never see again, he would kneel in the grass and breath in the fresh air. Now, holding his child, keeper to the secrets he knew now, he couldn't think of the little garden as beautiful or even magical despite it's origin. No, it was...plain...unappealing compared to his mate. An ugly reminder that he wasn't going to have this one way or another. Still, he put on a smile and let the tears in his eyes be mistaken for joy.

"Edge,...you're amazing." He breathed softly, before warm lips met his and he eagerly pushed back into the kiss. He hadn't been kissed like that in a while now...pulling away to catch his breath, he wrapped his arms tightly around the shorter boy. Resting his head atop Edge's hair, breathing in the scent of his mate. He was so sick. He couldn't even enjoy this moment anymore it seemed, maybe because of what he knew or maybe because of how it reminded him the power Edge wielded. What was he to power? How could he possibly compare and compete?

His thoughts stilled as Edge spoke and he listened to each word with a bated breath, trying to memorize his voice because how long till he wouldn't be able to hear it again? He had a feeling, he would be seeing Edge's castle a lot sooner than his mate expected and not in the way he thought. "Yes," his voice sounded so free, why shouldn't it when he was about to let everything go, "A beautiful castle.." He laughed carelessly, carefree, "Just for you and me and the young ones...a beautiful place!" To bury beautiful memories He kissed Edge's head soundly, then stepped back and let Skylark go to play with his brother.

"Daddy is amazing!!" Sleipnir shouted, burying his hands in the rock pit. It felt warm to him and ticklish as the little grains ran through his fingers. He squealed excitedly, not noticing his new nickname as he grinned at Edge before reaching out to his brother, encouraging him to come and play in the wonderful thing Daddy had made. Path grinned and gazed at them fondly, then moved to settle down next to the rock out, leaning over at Sleipnir, "Shall we start building a little castle right here?" he asked, helping Sleipnir stack up the rocks.

[Skybreaker]

Skylark giggled and skipped over to Sleipnir and Father while Daddy, who didn't seem too engaged in their playing, knelt with a bemused smile not too far. The oasis was just what the young dragons needed to rest their weary minds. They wouldn't grow up like Path, who was spoiled rotten, or like Edge, whose only companions were the sky, the ocean and its waves, and the white rocks. Violet eyes smiled as the boy fingered curled grey locks tenderly, wanting to touch the rocks and play with Father and Sleipnir. He still couldn't believe Daddy had fabricated this entire little sanctuary out of debris and muck. Maybe, then, Daddy could mend the heart he had unknowingly broken- Father's. The thought brought a smile to the baby dragon's face as his tail slithered happily and his budding wings fluttered absently.

He then sat down next to Sleipnir, admiring the 'castle'. It was a simple mound of pebbles and debris, and it didn't appear that they were sticky. Instead, the rocks were slippery and very, very, round. Skylark added a handful of pebbles onto the mountain with a slight chuckle. "I like this..." He murmured softly before burying both arms into the pit elbow-deep. With that, the young male began to burrow himself into the pit until he was down to the hips. He smiled blithely at Father and rested his head in the older dragon's lap as his feet rose from the pit, still partially covered by rocks and fully covered by his woolly socks. He felt so safe here, under the protection of his undeniably powerful parents.

Edge noticed Skylark nod off to sleep and he moved to pet the child's hair affectionately before taking a handful of tiny rocks into his hands. "Hey, do you guys want to play a game before we go to sleep..?" He didn't wait for an answer. "I'll go first." He placed his closed fist over his heart and closed his eyes solemnly. Sleipnir didn't have any playmates other than himself, Skylark, and Path, so Edge needed to be the best friend his son could ever dream of. "I promise I'll protect all of you and love you all forever." With that, he kissed the back of his hand and dropped the rocks onto the mountain in a melodious noise.

"Okay, now you two go." He said with an ecstatic grin.

[tenebrae16]

Path happily accepted Skylark as he came close to them, letting the little boy join in their play. Sleipnir seemed excited as well to have another playmate, tossing up the sandy pebbles playfully. Since they were relatively small, they tickled rather than hurt as they fell back down to earth on his skin. He showered them both before going back to helping Father with the castle. Having to pull of his shirt first and shake away all the sand that had gotten stuck in the folds of his clothing.

It wasn't really much of a castle, more of a pile of carefully placed stones actually, but Sleipnir didn't care. To him, it was a wonderful creation, and the structure was unique. With his carefully trained eyes, Sleipnir picked out the shiniest of the stones to be the castle's windows mirroring the reflecting light of glass, the dull grey stones as the castle door and the bigger rocks that weren't as smooth were used to built a wall. Father seemed to understand and saw what he saw too or perhaps the elder dragon just imitated his son, stacking up as he did. Turning his head to pay some attention to Skylark.

"Naughty, we'll have to start a treasure hunt for your socks later." He teased, tickling his bare feet. He petted Skylark, running his fingers through his white hair as he lay on his lap. "Yes...it's very nice." He said happily because now wasn't a time to be sad. He kept on petting Skylark even as he slept, turning back to help Sleipnir until Daddy came around to play as well. Moving aside his hand briefly for Edge to pet Skylark. Smiling up at him while Sleipnir giggled his answer. The little dragon watched Daddy curiously as he grasped the rock in hand and brought it to his lips. When Edge was done, he made an eager grab for the rocks, shifting through a handful before he found a suitable smooth white spotted grey rock, that reminded him of Daddy and Father. He cupped it in both hands and brought his closed fist to his mouth, declaring loudly , "I promise I'll love Daddy! And Father forever! And-" He cast a glance over at his sleeping brother, "-I'll always take care of Sky!" With that he deposited the stone on the pile right next to Daddy's and turned to his head up to face Father.

Path smiled down at Sleipnir, then slowly picked up a small smooth white pebble, holding it tightly in his hands, he brought it to his lips and paused, looking up at Edge and Sleipnir then at his sleeping son, "I promise." He began slowly, "I'll always love all of you no matter what and I'll always be thinking of you wherever I am." With that, he dropped the stone on the pile.

[Skybreaker]

Edge watched with anticipation as Sleipnir made his promise, then smiled warmly when Path did the same. The hydra loved his family, but he wasn't used to this type of mutual affection. He was familiar with simply making love and using his power to give pleasure as a weapon, not be pleasured himself.

The war weighed heavily on Edge's mind. What was he to do? Certainly he couldn't turn against his family, could he? What would Path think? What would the kids think? Edge could imagine Path wouldn't be happy in the slightest.

Perhaps Edge could see Regnum again in the war. But Regnum, if he was even alive, would fight on the side of the Elders. Not only that, but he wouldn't let Edge fight on Path's side. It dawned on him that he didn't have a choice. Though he wanted to fight alongside Path, the elders would never allow it.

Pouting slightly as he thought about it, Edge positioned himself so he was lying on Sleipnir , using him as a little pillow. He lifted up his son's shirt and gave him a wet razzberry and smiled tenderly before nuzzling Sleipnir's cheek. Edge had never felt such a... warm feeling from anyone before. Deciding he should kiss Path goodnight, he did so, but this lip lock was more passionate and fierce. Smiling as he pulled away, Edge yawned. "Good... Night..."

He then used Sleipnir as a pillow once more.

[tenebrae16]

Sleipnir giggled at the razzberry, comfortable with Daddy's hsad on his stomach; his hair tickling the young dragon a little. Sleipnir didn't mind, lying down on the surprisingly soft sandy stones. Sleep overtook the young dragon easily as he gazed up at the darkening sky and knew that even in this dangerous world, they were safe. He had just enough time to giggle as Daddy nuzzled his cheek, feeling his eyelids start to droop, he turned to the side and reached out to the little castle of stones, grasping the ones Daddy and Father had dropped. Keeping them hidden from view tucked away in his socks, Sleipnir curled his hands in Daddy's hair and fell aslsep.

Path kissed Edge back just as fiercely, with a new vigor and eagerness, perhaps because he knew it'd be their last. Smiling tenderly at his mate as he fell asleep, he gently picked up Skylark, prying him away from his lap and olacing him down next to Edge and Sleipnir. Then, he stood, being very careful not to make any noise on the gravel as he stepped over its boubdary into the soft muck of the land. Turning, he gazed once more at his family. Not sorrowfully though he was, but fondly and perhaps grateful. His family. His beautiful little family that would learn to love without him. Edge would get the mate he always wanted, Sleipnir would experience love and learn the meaning of a mate and maybe even a family while to Skylark, Path would give everything else and who would grow without worry in a family. A happy family in this little paradise he could no longer touch.

With a heavy heart,the white dragon disappeared into the night, choosing to be the first to leave. To go to the elders. To fight first. So Edge wouldn't have to.

[Skybreaker]

As Edge slept, he found something he thought that was lost to him a long time ago. He didn't simply find his memories as his mind raced in the realm of inner space. He didn't find his truest desires or true love, or any resolve in the war that was about to take place. Peeling back the layers of important things in his heart, Edge embraced Path- but even the white dragon was not the core of his existence. He did love Path, but he only just met the dragon no longer than a full year ago, and it wasn't true love at first sight, as he experienced with Sleipnir. No, as edge dove to the very bottom of his soul, he found the one thing he had been looking for all his life. Edge found himself.

Only the king of the hydra could possibly understand all the images that were occurring. In the beginning, Edge was born on his island. It was a gift from mother earth- Gaea. Representing the many dragons on the earth were the countless, colorful rocks. While together they crated an island, slowly the tides pulled away the ones that had little ties to the others, until none were left. It proved that while dragons were strong alone, they could all still be decimated.

After he washed onto the mainland, Edge was discovered by the Umbra, the dragons of shadows and the night. With his ebony hair, he fit right in with the dark dragons. Within the draconic community, Edge was regarded as their savior. By the time he had met with the dragons, they were already split into clans, with their shared government of Elders, with one representative per clan. There was an old prophecy, known far and wide by every dragon in existence. When a boy with purple eyes comes from the sea, dragon-kind will be cleansed of all their sins, and they will once again reign. Most thought this was just a story, the ramblings of an old oracle. How their faces lit up in shock as they all met Edge. The mysterious Umbra were now hosts to thousands of dragons who wanted to meet their savior. And one by one, Edge cleaned their souls, polished them until they sparkled like silver.

Essentially, Edge was a link between the dragons and their gods- the earth and the sky. He cleaned their sins by apologizing to Gaea and Oranous on their behalf, taking the blame himself. By acting as the sponge, he was bound to get dirty. Eventually, he met Regnum. The fire dragon was working to surpass his Elder and become one himself. That was everything he dreamed of.

As he woke with a start, Edge felt something wrong. Narrowing his eyes as he embraced Sleipnir with more intensity. He noted Path was gone, but that wasn't what he was worried about. Or, rather, concerned about. It was his comrades, who had just about enough of his nonsense. Even when all the others called him a traitor, a monster, and a killer, the hydra had stuck by him of their own choice. They were always there for him, even Beelzebub. Edge clicked his tongue as he sat up and scooped his two sons onto his lap and made sure they were safe.

Edge owed it to the hydra to fight alongside them. "You can come out. I won't be hostile." Edge said after a little while. He could feel all seven of them... all around him, there were ready to take him home.

[tenebrae16]

"Relin...." The elder dragon murmured, the youngest or rather second youngest now of the elders, yet he had been there longer than most. The silver dragon with scales that shone like metal approached him, silver eyes that contrasted his own stared at him calculating. P-Relin met them strongly, his lips parting as he said his name in acknowledgement, "Ferrum." The silver dragon regarded him coolly, not seeming the least bit interested in a friendly conversation as he glared at the younger, "I do not trust you, not after you tried to run off with your little hydra. You are a traitor in my eyes, one who dared abandon his own for selfish reasons." Relin opened his mouth to speak but the older cut him off quickly, "I do not care what you have to say for yourself, whatever excuses you can give. Merely know, that you may fight with us, but you do not belong here and I am watching you so do not even think of any tricks or deceit on your part."

With that, the silver dragon turned and walked back to the other elders who were discussing their plan of attack, how they would be subduing instead of killing so that-Pa-Relin had heard it all before. Could recite every strategy they had off the top of his head. Could see the risks that would have to take and everything. He knew what was going to happen. He knew the-his elders and off course after the stunt he had pulled, they weren't going to welcome him back with open arms. Even Regnum and Sanare's eyes were sad when they looked at him. He had to wonder, if they knew exactly what he had done. The last thing that he had decided to give away....well perhaps not the last...

He still had his life. And memories. At least one of them he would never give away. Not ever. It was all he had left and who knows what else lay in store for him as he moved on. Sighing, he ran a hand through his hair and sat down on the ground, wondering how his family was doing. Probably happy or still asleep. Once this war was over, he wondered if they would build the castle they talked about and live there happily ever after. It was a bitter thought, knowing he wouldn't be there, but better because they wouldn't need him to be there.

Staring at the smog filled sky, the white dragon collected his thoughts and silently sent his well wishes to his family before he stood up and turned to see the others looking at him expectantly, it was time to go.

Sleipnir shifted on Edge's arms, almost awakened by the movement. Sleepily, the dragon reached down and felt the wishing stones in his socks and happily rolled against Edge and fell back asleep, ignorant of his surroundings. Safe in Daddy's arms.

[Skybreaker]

Taking a deep breath, Edge made sure his kids were asleep. They might be light sleepers, but it didn't matter. The Hydra... without Path present to pe a threat, they could be even more dangerous. It was a good thing all of them respected Edge, though not all of them obeyed completely.

Slowly, they began to show themselves and Edge didn't even bother to stand up, he was content with seeing his subordinates from a distance. First to show herself was December. The smallest hydra, December was an adorable girl who looked to be around sixteen or seventeen, with snowy grey hair made into seemingly perfect waves and blushing cheeks. Her eyes, dark purple in color, were cautious; she didn't know how her king would react. December wore a wintry fur coat and a furry scarf.

She appeared to be a naïve young girl, but this was a ruse; December's ability allowed her to influence others to do what she wanted. Next to her was a taller young woman, with a fiercer appearance. Her hands were sheathed in gloves, and there was a dark beauty mark on the corner of one eye. Her hair was a cloudy grey, though it had streaks of black in it, not unlike Sleipnir's. She was clad in what appeared to be a puffy ball gown, complete with a tiara. Her dress was white, though it had no stains on it, and almost seemed to glow, and it contrasted greatly against her saucy skin. Blizzard was a ranger fighter, she need not get close to devastate. The hydra clothed in a ball gown was holding a giant sugar cookie, which she bit into politely.

From behind him, came two tall males. While both attractive, one seemed a bit more unkept than the other. To be precise, while one hydra stood proudly in gleaming black armor and a valliant , brave gaze with his hair in spikes, the other casually wrapped a cloak around himself, and probably didn't even bother changing out of the clothes he woke up in. His wavy hair streamed out messily, some strands even curling upon his forehead. It couldn't be compared to a waterfall or a curtain, for it was just so tousled. Both had peachy skin tones. The knight was Forte, and the other was Leonides, who covered his mouth as he yawned lazily.

From the left, Edge spotted Beelzebub, dragging his feet through the muck whilst wearing no shirt, but incredibly baggy pants. Edge nodded a silent greeting to each and every one of them, until....

"Edge." Training his eyes ahead of him, Charon and Noire stood right on the rocky boundary with soft, hopeful expressions. The female hydra held a lacey pillow that had upon it a black ring of odd, polished metal. It was adorned with countless black and silver and purple jewels, and the top was so spiky, it would probably kill someone if they fell on it. Charon had, folded on one arm, a royal cape with a fur collar.

"Charon. Noire." He looked around at the others who had also gathered around the rocky paradise. They were a mismatched group of powerful dragons, but they shared several things in common. Their eyes, first and foremost. And also their desire to restore the Earth, so that they could have something to rule. And the only one who could accomplish that was Edge.

"E-Edge...! December stammered, blushing as all turned to look at her, warning her not to say anything that would repel their king. "Y-You have to come with us, y-y'know? We can win the war, I know it! Let us strike fear into he hearts of our enemies by declaring our leader has returned." Edge sighed deeply. His last warning was for all the hydra to stick together, but it was obvious they hadn't. Noire had rules a sky city, probably alongside Charon. Beelzebub, being Beelzebub, had probably stayed by himself. Forte and Leonides had stayed together, as had December and Blizzard. In the end, however, they all believed him to be dead.

Edge looked at his peaceful offspring, not giving an answer. "My king, if the are your sons, hey will be fine, at least until the war is over." Edge nodded once.

"I... owe it to them to be strong. Without their Father, I'm worries about what they may do, though I am sure that they shall be fine. I owe it to them and to my mate that the Earth is restored. I owe it to our mother, Gaea." The hydra looked solemnly,

"We will not fight without you. We will retaliate yes, but we won't strike." Forte said softly into, Edge stood up.

"This war... it shall be short and definite. We will not win, nor will the Elders. The Earth will." With hat, he kneeled before Noire and Charon, who placed the crown atop his head. The king clenchd a fist as he stepped out of his little oasis. "I shall come. Do not count on me to fight." With that, the Hydra began cheer I g and clapping him on the back and crying out of sheer joy...'it was a moment of celebration. But would Edge really leave his kids?

[tenebrae16]

Sleipnir had slept through most of thehydra's exchange, but the sudden cheering and clapping startled him wide awake. Sleepily, he rubbed his eyes, feeling the soft stones below him, but not the warmth of Father or Daddy. Slowly, he crawled up on all fours and stared blearily over at Daddy, surrounded by a mob of people or dragons rather, wearing a really shiny big hat and a large thick looking blanket. Was he dreaming? "Daddy?" He called out, his soft voice breaking out through the crowd's cheering and celebration at the return of their king. He sat up, tail slapping on the rock and his wings stretching as he woke up a little more, "Daddy, where are yiu going? Where's Father?" He asked softly, looking up at the hydra, foucsed solely on his Daddy out of the rest or the crowd. He turned away to gaze at his brother and gently shook him, "Sky...wake up, Daddy's going somewhere...."

With that he stumbled to his feet, feeling the two little stones still safe in his socks as he stepped over the boundary of safety and pushing past everyone to get to his Daddy. He grasped Edge's hand, looking up and asking, "Daddy, where are we going?"

They set out in silence, the fastest of them, Regnum and Anemoli ahead in lead. Relin had never seen the hydra's castle, the edge of the world most called it. Though from what he knew and heard, he expected that unlike the rest of the world, it would remain untouched. A strong solidified fortress. Definetely not easy to break and probably housing the hydra refugees if not all of them. For now, Relin pushed Edge, Skylark and Sleipnir out of his mind and focused on the road ahead of him, watching for any sign of the castle, that they were getting close. They travelled in silence, but there was nothing to say anyway and Relin could feel their eyes on him, waiting to see when he would turn and run back to his mate, but he no longer had anything to run back to. Nothing left really. Even this war was completely meaningless to him, something he he was doing with no reason at all. Perhaps it was just for this rush.

This adrenaline rushing through his veins, the only feeling reminding him he was still alive. For now, he was still alive. He could fight. Get this war over with and then....just mourn a little perhaps if he still could. Then, there was no guarantee he would stay with the elders.....stay anywhere actually, he didn't belong anywhere. Perhaps he'd go back to the shelter and finish its resources or give such resorces to the elders....he really hadn't a need for them anyway. What was the use?

[Skybreaker]

Edge smirked at Charon, who was sobbing like a baby while burying his face in his king's firm stomach and breathing heavily. Edge 'tsked' at having the bigger male grip his sides none to gently, but rana hand through Charon's hair nonetheless. Right now, he needed something to believe in. As Edge's violet eyes met the ones of his friends, he realized how broken they all were. When he had gone, they had diversified themselves. They all, he realized, needed something to believe in.

And, for them, Edge would do whatever it took. To save the Earth, to save his conerades. And more than anything, save himself. Everything was joyous and happy and light. It was as if the world was coming together, it was as if they were all meant t be together forever. Though painful as it was, Edge knew that with the Elders out and about that would never happen. For them, Edge would be a leader- he would be their king, regardless of the fact more than half of his powers were limited.

Skylark, as well, woke to Daddy wearing strange clothes. He too heard began to cry. "N-No... Please don't leave, Daddy....!!!" He pleaded, hugging his brother as the hydra's sparking eyes rested upon him. Edge began to walk toward them, and Charon and Noire staged along while the others kept a careful eye. Edge's children were cute, but they wouldn't do much more than scowl or smile, respectively.

Noire was careful to keep Edge's cloak from touching the ground by holding it by one corner while Charon held it by the other. She didn't mind it; it was easy. Edge leaned down and kissed both his sons on their forehead. "This... this isn't goodbye. You two come from a main alleles. You'll be fine. I went to take you with me, but with the Elders looking for me, it won't be safe." Noire thought it nice to pipe in right then.

"We can take them. Can't we?" There was a murmur of agreement and grumbles, but none were courageous enough to talk back- yet. There was only as much that poor Beelzebub would take.

"But Father will be angry and lonely," Skylark objected, earning a few nervous glances. Edge hugged the little dragon. "Then stay with Father. He'll protect you. I promise, we will meet again, m son...." He then looked at Sleipnir.

"You'll stay with your brother, I presume?" Edge asked softly, rubbing his other son's cheek.

[tenebrae16]

Sleipnir stared up at his father, than glanced around at the hydras around him. He could tell they were all very powerful, and he shied away from the tall man that seemed to be radiating hostility, shifting closer to the gentler ones, like Charon that he knew, thiugh did not necessarily like, and the very pretty women who wanted them to come. Come where, Sleipnir didn't exactly know or care as long as Daddy was with them. He held Skylark's hand tightly, remembering his promise to look after his brother always, as Daddy asked him if he would stay with Sky, "Why can't we go with Daddy?..." He asked softly, then looked around for Father's own advisebor for him to explain to them exactly what was happening now and where was Daddy going, leaving after he had promised to stay, who were these people taking Daddy away and why did he have to maje a choice now, but Father wasn't there and thus couldn't answer these questions.

"Where's Father? Daddy, why are you going?" He asked softly, eyebrows knitting and his bright eyes were worried, unsure. If Daddy left them and Father wasn't here, where would they go? He hugged his brother close, "You promised not to leave us, you promised to protect us and love us forever! Why are you leaving? Why did you lie to Father?....I thought Daddy said he wanted me to be his mate, why are you going?"