I plucked another apple from the tree limb after doing another hop. I smiled on in accomplishment when I landed on my feet, and put it down inside that green blanket with handles I've found in that weapons storage room inside the fortress. Looking back on it, I still didn't know why the dragons kept that thing in there of all places, but I figured it was a good idea to take it with me. I turned that thing into a makeshift bag so I can carry some apples on my shoulder. Not bad for an idea I thought.

I shot a glance up at the sky, to keep an eye out for any flying dragons that may go through the area. The morning sun rays tried to force their way through the canopy of the thick woods, with birds tweeting within. Upon waking up, it was good to finally see the sun again after being deprived of sunshine for a little while. I was feeling glad I wasn't seeing any smoke from a billowing volcano.

Then I looked towards Alex, still sleeping on her side in the grass, her head laying on her arm, strands of silver hair drifted over her face. I took a deep breath and let it out slowly. I have been up before her, maybe for about an hour or so. I didn't want to wake her. After all she had went through, I think she deserved to have a moments rest without somebody waking her up, like I was some mean drake bothering her and forcing her to work her butt off at the crater. I was letting her do what she wants.

We're both free to do what we want now.

Speaking of which, after we both went our separate ways with Celine and Ly, we wandered through this forest for a bit longer than I thought. But I guess we didn't want to rest yet, we didn't feel tired, I sure wasn't, heck, we both got out in a blazing experience. I guess we both figured we'd walk a bit more just to make sure we'd gotten FURTHER away from that fortress. Makes sense to me. I wouldn't force her to stop. I can still recall her face when we found this tree that was carrying apples for any traveler going through here. She ate a few nonstop, like she was a very hungry predator. And so did I, I wasn't going to deny that. Considering she has lived in the fortress longer than I have, she REALLY must've been hungry.

If only I can feed all those prisoners right now.

I looked upon the trail leading away from the tree and us. I didn't know where I was, or where I was going. I knew I have to get home, and get this girl to safety, since I don't want her to be in any danger ever again. I didn't care what happened to me. I was going to follow through with my plan.

But this, ALL OF THIS, is a big world. A world I never got to see for years. I know I was only six when I was traveling away from the ruins of Sapwood, but I don't remember much of the landscapes, except it wasn't black and it was green and slightly yellow. Maybe me and my family didn't have to travel very far to get to that forest, to Clear Sight. But even if I did remember, that still didn't help me out in the slightest. I'm sure a lot of things would look the same.

I have to find some help, I have to find my home, and my family, if they're alive. But I do not know which direction to go.

There must be a village the further we keep going on this trail. Maybe we can find some help there. And maybe someone there can tell me how to get home.

Or I could ask Alex later, maybe after she wakes up. I still didn't ask her about it. She may know where Clear Sight's at.

Then a scaly face flashed in my head. I dipped my chin in thought. Ly has been kinda bugging me ever since I left her with that grouchy, bigger dragon. It was just that I couldn't get her face and her supposed feelings out of my head. Her wishes of wanting to go home and her words of fright of not knowing where to go and everything else she said kinda rang in my head as well. Frankly, a part of me still felt sorry for her. I had the urge to disregard that deal in the dungeon, and want to go find her, and stay with her, and Celine.

It made me want to help her. It made me want to help her, like she was just a poor, lost child...

But...My distrust for dragons forced me not to do it. It forced me not to go back to her. To them. And I was pushing that idea away again.

I CAN'T do it. I'll go crazy with paranoia if I stay with them.

I can't take the chance...

A moan was audible other than some more tweeting. I shot my gaze to a waking Alex stretching her arms in the air. She let off a yawn afterward. As she was rubbing the sleep out of her eyes, I greeted her with a smile, "Good morning."

Alex's lips moved up for a smile too. She replied, "Morning to you too." She pushed off the earth, dusted the dirt and grass off herself. She looked up through the canopy at the non smokey sky. She said, "Ah...Looks pretty nice."

I said with a nod in agreement, "Sure is. Better than living under smoke."

"That's right. Glad I can see the sky." Alex asked, looking back at me, "How long have you been up?"

I replied with my hand motioned towards her, "Longer than you. But don't worry, I didn't mind waiting." I gestured to the apple tree above me, "Already got myself a nice breakfast."

"Good for you." She waltzed up till she stood in front of me. She commented, "Least either of us will be rushed to eating our fill before we're forced to work."

I chuckled, "That's another benefit for freedom. No timed schedules, no working."

She said gratefully, "I love it. I don't want to see another jewel pit in my life."

I asked, "Say, are you hungry?" Before she can answer, I turned and bent down to dug through the makeshift bag for an apple. I picked up probably the same one I had just now gotten off the tree and showed it to her, "I managed to pick off a few for you."

Alex took it off my hand. She said, "Thanks. I need it." Then she bit down on the apple. Her face was showing relish, appearing satisfied again. She commented, "Still tasty."

I smiled at her while she was standing there chewing. Then I pointed out when my frowning eyes were observing her outfit, "You know...I think we should find you some new clothes while we're enjoying this freedom." Then I gazed at her not so fine combed hair after she swallowed, "You look like you've gone through so many centuries."

After swallowing, Alex responded with a sigh, brushing a strand of stiff hair off her shoulder, "Don't remind me. I feel filthy."

I said, "Well, a good long bath can do you wonders." I lifted my hands and gazed at them, seeing they were still stained with dirt from that pit I was forced to dig at. I commented, "I could certainly wash these."

She said, "Just too bad there wasn't enough water at the fortress to do that."

"Heh...Or none at all." I said, dropping my limbs to my sides, "Perhaps we may find something like that later today. And maybe a new outfit. You ready to go?"

Alex giggled, "And I thought you weren't going to push me around like a dragon."

"Pfft." I waved her off, "Don't compare me to them. I ain't totally rude."

She gave me a nod, "That's true. You seem all right...So far."

I assured her with a smirk, "Don't worry, Alex, you're safe with me. I wouldn't do anything devious since we're alone...I'm not like that."

Alex replied, "I believe that. You're not acting like other guys."

Heh...Wonder how many guys have hit on her?

Then her eyes wandered off to the direction we travelled from last night, "And I guess not all dragons are rude too. I still can't believe one got me out of there. That's still...Unexpected."

I said, "Well, Celine was held prisoner, like us, and she wanted to get out of there. And I did too and I kinda needed her help."

Alex raised her brow in amusement, "I noticed. When was the last time a dragon and human actually worked together?"

Probably never. I added, "Well, it was just a temporary thing. I didn't plan on staying with her and that little dragon. We all wanted to do our own thing and that was it. Besides...I'm glad we left them. I had enough of dragons for one day."

"I guess so am I." Her teeth dug through the apple again and started chewing again. She stated with her mouth full, "Still...Very interesting."

I wonder if she's thinking of trying to find them too. I wouldn't do that, Alex. Best we both stay away from them. I said with a wave, "But anyways, at least we are free from dragons, thanks to one unlikely ally...I can live with that."

Alex swallowed, then muttered, "Me too." Then she smiled for a moment and said, "You know, I may not know her well, but that little yellow dragon was right about one thing, Dart."

"What's that?"

"That she said that you were crazy. Going against a dragon just to rescue me. That was honestly a crazy thing to do."

I playfully asked, "What, more crazy than escaping a dungeon?" What am I saying, of course that was crazier, Dart!

She answered, "That too. Not that many people that were captured by dragons would do what you did. Gosh I mean, you just chopped that dragon's tail. I'm more shocked that you did THAT than the fact that another big dragon carried me out of there."

I shot my head to the right when I responded, "Well it was the only thing I can think of at the time. I wanted to fight dirty instead of...Having a fair fight. I didn't have time for that." Hey, a woman that doesn't know me personally was impressed by what I did, I wasn't going to admit that I was never a good fighter!

She giggled, "I'll admit, that wasn't the most heroic of fights, but I commend you for acting smart. He'd probably beat you in no time if you fought fairly."

That was what I was afraid of. I wouldn't be able to beat him without proper training. Good thing Celine killed him for me so I wouldn't have to. I may not have trusted her, but I can appreciate that. I giggled too, "Heh...Some people would say that was stupid."

She said, "But it was pretty brave. I still appreciate it."

"Thanks." Not like I didn't do any other brave things lately. I asked, letting out a breath, "So...You ready to head off now?"

Alex said, holding up her partially eaten apple, "Sure. I can walk and eat this at the same time."

I offered, pointing at the bag full of apples, "I can carry all those for you if you don't want to."

The silver haired woman replied, "Thanks...Glad you found a bag. When did you have it?"

I pointed out, thumbing at my shoulder, "I had it on my shoulder last night."

"Oh." She laughed a little bit, "Well with all that excitement and the newfound freedom, I guess I didn't notice you had it."

I told her, chuckling a bit, "I found it at the fortress. The dragons were keeping it. Probably just some bag they carry for their jewels from the pit."

Alex nodded, "It's probably true. I do see them carry those things away in a bag, and with food for us." Then she gazed at the bag on the ground. She said skeptically, "But that one is so much smaller. Why would they have that one?"

I replied, "How should I know? Maybe it's for small finds. You know, when not many gems were found in one day I guess."

Alex then said with a shrug, "Oh well, it makes it easy for us. We don't have to carry anything in our arms." Then she looked at me with a curious face, "So which way do we go now? Wanna keep going on the same trail?"

I looked down the trail again for a second, then back to her. I said, "I guess. We may find a village sooner or later if we keep moving that way."

Alex said with a hopeful, but also nervous look, "I hope we don't find one in shambles. I heard the dragons have been attacking a lot of places. I REALLY need to find a good hotel with good plumbing, and a bath."

I'm certain we might sooner or later. I said, "We'll just have to find out. We have to keep moving. I'll get a few more apples and then we'll go." She nodded in agreement, then her teeth went back to digging through her apple. Then I started along the branch, eyes fully on another dangling apple, feeling ready to move on with my travel companion.

*****

I only said, dropping a leg in front of Ly, all cooked and ready to eat, "Here you go."

Ly smiled big, her tongue swished across her lips. She said, "Mmmm...Thanks, Celine." Then she got on her stomach and dug right in, tearing meat off the bone. I strode back to my portion of the meal, the literal body of a deer with only three legs left. It was literally the second deer I ate ever since we escaped from Messina's fortress. I dropped on my stomach as well, had my paws on it to prevent it from slipping away, and began eating away to relieve the hunger. And it still has never felt so good.

I was feeling glad that I can eat my own meals without anyone bossing me around. I realized I haven't eaten a thing since Dart's village. I was getting hungry while being held captive. I didn't complain about it out loud, I'm not gonna act like a whiny hatchling that acts like it wants to be fed. What's more, I still felt so relieved to get out of that place finally, and feeling so happy that I was back out into the open world. The air didn't smell of smoke, and I wasn't in a enclosed space anymore. I was back out in the nice, peaceful woods in wide open space, finally breathing in that fresh, outdoors air.

Not to mention I was so happy to see the stars again last night. It felt like the angels in the sky and I were apart for hundreds of years. Perhaps they noticed they couldn't find me on the ground anymore and haven't seen me for a little while and basically wondered if I was dead or not, only they never seen me lifted up to the sky with them like I had always lifted myself up there when I was alive. But at least they didn't have to wonder anymore.

A burp came off Ly's throat. She giggled then went back to chewing on the leg. I shot her an annoyed look, quietly scoffed. Come on, little one, at least give me some peace and quiet. My wings did have the sudden urge to fly up to the stars again last night and show myself to them, but with the hatchling around I could do no such thing. I couldn't leave her alone, even when I had to hunt for food for the two of us. When I escaped that prison last night I was feeling SO ready to be alone and travel the lands by myself again without anybody bothering me.

But unfortunately I had to change those plans...Thanks to Ly.

When she was crying and panicking about being lost and alone without any knowledge for her on how to get back to her home and find her parents, I felt concerned and sorry for her, more than I ever was before. I couldn't leave her alone and let her fend for herself. Considering she mentioned that she couldn't breathe fire and doesn't know how to fly, and claims she can't hunt too well like her family, I don't think she can handle the world all by herself.

And besides that...I was in the same position as her, when I was her age, only I already knew how to blow fire out of my mouth, and I hunted decently good for that age.

I was scared and alone in a big world all by myself...When unfortunate circumstances were brought to me.

But that was years ago and I've gotten used to it, obviously enough. You don't see a big girl like me shivering in fright. What kind of grown dragoness would do that?

Looking at the little one crying like that the other night I momentarily saw a flash of my younger, smaller self. That made me want to help her out. I don't think I would've lived with myself if I left her that night.

Just like the time I didn't want to leave Dart until I was sure he was safe and wouldn't get picked on anymore before he attempted to leave his village.

Only more than a few times by now, I partly wished I have. I figured being alone with Ly for a short period of time would get on my nerves, and I wasn't wrong in thinking that. I hardly had a babbling, little dragon travelling with me and it definitely showed. I was doing good at feeding her, and keeping an eye on her so she wouldn't get in trouble, but gosh I certainly wished I was alone. A few times she wouldn't shut her mouth for one minute, and a couple times this morning, when I was hunting with her close by, when I was getting ready to maul down a deer, she would yap out 'hey there it is!' or some stupid thing like that.

I mentally told the ancestors to give me a break by that point. But luckily feeding Ly isn't impossible...It's just dealing with her while taking her home without knowing where she lives, THAT'S the impossible part.

I don't know where to go, which direction. According to Ly, she lives in a cave, not high up in a mountain top, but very low on the ground, around the landscape sorta like this. That sorta helps but not by much.

Maybe it would've helped me out more and everything would've went by quicker if I just took to the skies. But the problem with that is, Messina's dragons would be looking for us after our escape. Most certainly by flying. That was honestly another reason why I didn't fly up to the night sky last night, even when Ly was finally put to sleep much to my relief. We had to stay low to the ground as much as possible so we wouldn't get spotted. It was probably the safest strategy.

Besides that...I didn't wanna carry a hatchling around for long periods of time. Maybe I would teach her how to fly so I wouldn't, but I wasn't feeling for it. I'm not a teacher sort of dragon. I'm not sure I would have the patience for it. I can kinda imagine Ly messing around during her flight lessons and getting on my nerves even more.

I hope I don't have to deal with this forever...

Ly stopped eating the deer leg momentarily to look at me with crimson on her snout. She said, "Hey, uh, Celine?"

I wasn't in the mood to speak to her at the moment. I wanted to eat something. But figuring she'd keep trying to get me to talk to her, I lifted my snout while still chewing to impatiently respond, "What?"

The yellow hatchling said, "Thanks again for giving me something to eat. I appreciate it."

I only stated this after swallowing down that small bit of meat, "No problem."

Shortly, Ly told me, "Heh heh...You know...The only thing I HAVE managed to catch in my life was a mouse, and a butterfly. They aren't really much, like deer, just way smaller. Do they count for something when you're trying to hunt?"

I remarked, "Only if you call that beginners training. But it does sound like you show a bit of promise. Maybe you'll get more better at hunting bigger things someday."

"...Yeah." When she was silent, I was about to lower my neck back down to eat some more. But it froze when she said something else, "But truth be told, maybe even with that, I don't think I could ever be as good a hunter as you. You're really great at it, like my mommy. Usually my visions show that I'd trip on a rock or step on a stick or rustle a bush or stub my claw by a tree root and food would always get away from me...And then I'd starve. Isn't it funny that my visions don't believe in me? Makes me wonder if they do help me out. What do you think?"

I simply stated, my tail swishing along the grass, "I'm assuming you're overthinking it. And your visions LITERALLY don't do anything to help you out. Like me. So that part is true. I do a much better job than they do."

Ly giggled, nodding, "That's true, I guess. But maybe we shouldn't be saying that. One time it showed me coming across a tree that was filled with fruit, and I would climb up and grab a few. So...I think my powers do believe in me...Somewhat."

Great...And I thought you'd give up on the whole vision nonsense. I still don't believe in it.

She tilted her head, "By the way, which do you prefer most? Non-meat meals or regular meat?"

I answered, "Both. But I like meat more."

"Me too." She reared back her head and gasped, "Oh wow! We have something in common!" She cheered, making a huge smile, "Yay!" I snorted, my teeth digging back in the deer. Oh my god, give me a break. Then shortly, she spoke my name again, "Hey Celine?"

I said while tearing off another chunk off the bone, "Yes?"

Ly said, "I just wanted to ask you this...How are you supposed to take me back home if you do not know where I live? I would help with my visions, but they don't tell me much of anything." She formed a look of frustration, "Seriously, they don't help me too much when I need them. Isn't that stupid? They just do whatever they want you know...Like everything else. You'd think with me they'd show me everything. Do vision powers actually have a mind of their own? That is strange. I wonder. Does it mean that they have eyes too like us? How is THAT possible? Are visions like floating eyeballs or something? That sounds gross. Anyways, do you have any ideas? I honestly do not have a clue where to go."

You have a mind of your own, and a blabber mouth, I can tell you that, sweetheart. I told her, "I don't currently have any, we both know that. I don't know where to take you, but I'm still not gonna give up. If it took me your whole life and it took me to the ends of this world...I'll try." Which I hope it won't...I don't think I can stand it. It's already difficult enough just putting up with you.

Ly said with a playful grin, "My whole life? If that's true, that'll be fun. I can have you as my friend forever."

I gulped down what I ate, then replied, "I'd rather much be alone thanks. You wouldn't want me to stick around for the rest of your life."

She said, "Sure I do! You don't boss me around and ground me in a dark dungeon for short periods of time. You don't hate me. Yeah sure, you seem cranky a bunch, but you're still all right for friend material."

I narrowed my eyes at her, "I don't get cranky."

She shot back, "But, you did say one time that you were so very tired and you wanted to take a nap. What do you call that?" I snorted in reply. Then she continued with a chuckle, "Yep, you're cranky, but I don't mind. You're not mad crazy like Queen Messina, and not a big, total sour puss like Garo. Plus speaking of them, you got me away from them and their home so I owe you one. Therefore, how I make it up to you, is by being your best friend forever."

I pointed out, "Little too early to call us BEST friends, you know. We only just met"

But Ly stated differently, "That's because I'm very likeable enough to be your best friend."

I said, "It doesn't look nor feel that way to me."

Ly protested, "You're denying it! At least admit it, it's pretty obvious we are! Look, I even saw a vision once that we play chase with each other and laugh together! It's true! If I see it, it has to be!"

That sounds like crap. I looked away, "Don't believe it, don't have to. I'm good."

Ly playfully begged, "Awww, come on, Celine! Not even when I'm telling you I saw it in my head? You don't know what you're missing!" I looked at her as she added with a shrug, "Well, actually yes, you do, cause you've seen how good I can be to others, so I know you definitely know what you're missing! That is so wrong!"

I replied to that statement, "Doesn't bother me none. I like it that way."

The hatchling replied with a playful narrow her eyes were giving me, "Fine, but just you wait. You'll regret it." I just shrugged, then had another bite from the dead deer. Then she went on with a hopeful look, "I am hoping you will, and maybe you'll stay with me. I do know you'll want to leave when you take me back, but I don't want you to go. I really do like you." She dipped her chin down to the leg. She mumbled sadly, "Not like Dart and that Alex girl. I was liking them both already. I certainly miss Dart already. It's kinda nice to be friends with something that isn't dragon." Ly then looked at me once more instead of eating, "Celine?"

I sighed, looking at her with irritance, "What, Ly? I'm busy eating."

Ly apologized, "Sorry."

I told her, "Look, if you have something else to say, can you save it for later? We probably have a long trip and we need to keep moving as soon as possible. Staying around in one place too long could be dangerous for us. Messina's dragons searching for us and all. They might fly, but some may search around on foot whenever they want to land. You do get that, right?"

She confirmed it with a nod, "I do, but-"

"Then you should finish eating instead of wasting time yammering non stop." I warned, "We may be far from the fortress, but it's not like we're at the other side of the continent. It's not TOO far from us, which means the dragons aren't TOO far behind to find us. We can't take that chance. So please keep eating."

Ly finally brought up, "I was just trying to ask...You think Dart and Alex are going to be ok?"

I have thought about Dart mostly ever since I left him last night. In the back of my mind, it was telling me to go back to him. It was telling me that my job to look out for him isn't over yet. That he could still be in danger. But I mostly ignored it. It was time I left him alone from now on. All that was getting out of hand.

He needs to live his own life...Without me watching over him. And I need to live mine.

He won't be picked on, and he won't be in danger again.

He will be fine.

I finally answered her question after staring at her a bit, "I think they'll be fine. They're not hatchlings, they're adults. They can take care of themselves."

Ly didn't look convinced. She pressed, "Are you sure?"

I shot up my head, "Of course. Why wouldn't I?"

"Well..." Ly suddenly looked nervous. She was fidgeting with her claws.

Oh gosh, something's bothering her. I inquired, "What is it? Speak up."

Shortly, she said after a pause, "Look, Celine, they're not dragons, right? I mean, I know Dart has a sharp pointy thingy that would be completely dangerous to play around with, but will it be enough to help them?"

I pressed, "What's your point?" I think I know where this is going...

She clarified, "My point is...If Messina has sent dragons to search for us, then would Dart and Alex be able to stand up to them if they find them?" She had her talons beside her head like she had some sort of thought running through her brain, "Because I can see that happening...And it does not look good."

I asked, "So, what are you saying? Are you saying we should-"

Ly gasped happily, "YES! Yes, we should go back to them! I wanna see them again, especially Dart! Oh I'll be so happy to see him!"

Are you kidding me? I shot her down with these words, "No. No, we are not."

The hatchling held a look of disappointment on her face, "Why not?"

I explained to her adamantly, "You know why, it's already spoken to us. Dart doesn't like us, he doesn't trust dragons, he wouldn't want us around, and I think that girl would think the same thing. She's already been through a lot with our kind too so I don't think there is any need to put her through more with us around."

Ly started with begging eyes, "But Celine-"

"They wouldn't want us around. That's the way it goes. It's normal for humans to not want dragons around them."

Ly tried to argue, "But you got him and Alex out of there. You helped them, just as much as you helped me."

I contradicted her statement, "I got Dart out because I NEEDED his help escaping from my chain, and he needed mine. It was all just a deal we made, you know that as well. We both didn't have a choice in the matter. Alex was just a coincidence."

She stated, "But Dart's gotta appreciate that. Alex pretty much was. You saw her."

I said, "Maybe they both are, a little bit. But that doesn't mean we are friends with them, especially Dart. He doesn't think we're friends and will probably never will be friends with us. I'm certain no matter how hard we try, he'll never like us. You shouldn't think about wasting your time on him, Ly. If he doesn't like us, if he's not remotely interested in being our friend, then we should just leave him alone. That human girl would probably agree."

Ly got up on her feet, her wings spread out and her tail swishing behind her. She tried to protest, "But those mean dragons will find them! Dart can't fight them by himself! I can see it! Really! If we don't go back to them, they'll be in HUGE trouble. They'll be killed cause Messina was so angry about what we did."

I said when an idea popped up in my head, "They're small, which means they can run faster and hide in places that they cannot. Big dragons have limits. They'll be fine."

But that didn't stop Ly from worrying, "Yes, I suppose you're right, but what if they might track them down to their hiding spots, and then they'll be in trouble. And it's not like they can run forever if they're found. Heck, what if instead of killing them they'll just be captured and taken back to the fortress and then they're both back to being sad? I don't want that to happen to them again! That is MUCH WORSE than dying, I realize that. I can't bear it! Please, Celine, we have to go back and find them before they do!"

I blinked at her a few times, as worrying concern ran through my skull. She's got a point. When a dragon catches someone's scent, they could find them hiding someplace. Dragons do have a good sense of smell. And she definitely does make another point...They can't run forever...

They are all alone...Without a dragon like me staying by their side...

Dart says he's going to find more humans to put an end to Messina's reign, but what if he doesn't find help in time and he'll be stopped?

What if he dies before then...Or what if he does get captured again instead, and then be punished more harshly? What tricks of Messina would he endure if he does end up going back?

Maybe we should go back to Dart and that girl. Maybe I- Then I finally said, mentally shaking off that thought, "No. My conscience is clear. Dart kept his end of the bargain and so have I. I'm taking you home without any distractions. Look, it's not natural for both our kinds to socialize. It's not normal. You should figure that out already."

Ly yelled, "I don't care! I want to go back to them!"

I retorted, "That isn't my problem, it's theirs, I don't like bothering in other's problems. It's already enough dealing with yours, I can't have more on my plate."

She argued with me some more with a brave face, "Well I think that is our problem! I think of them as my friends and they may need our help!"

I huffed with closed eyes, "Don't make this hard on me. This isn't what I signed on for." This most definitely isn't.

Ly held in a breath and let it out. Then she said in a much calmer tone, "Celine...I do understand what you're trying to say, even Messina said that I shouldn't be hanging out with humans so much. But I don't think Alex would turn away from us. She seems to be very appreciative. She's actually kind of nice for a few minutes. As for Dart...I think he's confused." I rolled my eyes. Confused...Doesn't look like it to me. She went on, "He may not trust us, but I kinda think there's more to it. He doesn't know us well. He just hasn't had time to get to know us. He might like us if he does. And I think perhaps you're judging him a bit too much. Maybe you're right, maybe both our kinds weren't meant to live in harmony together...But it's just us. I'm not saying you oughta get along with EVERY human. Just them. I certainly want to try. You should too. Having more friends may have you be less cranky. And it might make things less boring for us too."

I turned my head away and sighed. ...She may be right about the last bit, but....There's no point...Dart won't appreciate what we do for him next. He wouldn't trust me. Not like he did before. It was only a temporary thing anyway. He won't bring himself to do that again. And that girl wouldn't want to see another dragon for the rest of her life after what she went through. She won't want us around.

No human would fully trust a dragon...

That's when something from my past swooped in around inside my head. A face came forth before my very eyes. ...No...That's not true. It has happened before. Maybe there might be a-

NO! I pushed the thought away, making it quickly disappear. Don't think about it...

Besides...It's not worth it, and you know it.

It won't work out...

...But...Am I making the right decision...?

Then I heard Ly say, "Let me put it like this...They're small too like you said...Try to imagine them as me. Would you leave me alone like that? I don't think you would. You're right here with me. Would you feel better if something bad did happen to them? Can you forget about them like that? Please...Think about it. For me?"

I looked towards her with a expressionless face. She was smiling a hopeful smile, her eyes wanting me to reconsider.

I let out another long, drawn out sigh. Oh...Ly...

*****

I said, when we stood in the middle of a round clearing, "Let's camp right here. I think we had enough for today." Alex yawned behind me in response. I gazed at the night sky, which was moon bright. The day's already over with anyway. We'll continue on tomorrow. I eyed ahead at the woods past the clearing. If we can find a village tomorrow...

It's been mere hours since me and my fellow prisoner Alex left that apple tree early this morning and carried on with our trek for a village. ANY village. Only I began to wonder if this trail we were following led us to a village at all.

I know I never traveled in my life but this was ridiculous. I know I shouldn't be complaining considering I was so up for leaving my village to begin my own journeys, like my father has done when he was young, but even I began questioning how he's managed to put up with all this traveling, all alone without anyone beside him.

Heck, with me at the moment, all this walking was SORTA making me wish that I had a horse to ride on. Or...Something to help us move faster.

I think the reason why I was feeling in a rush to find someone was because I seriously wanted to find some help for all the slaves me and Alex left behind, and not to mention I needed to desperately get back home as soon as possible, and find my family, my father mostly, and see if they're alive. That last thing in particular, the way Messina said, for a somewhat sure fact, that my father was possibly dead, was kinda worrying me.

I don't want that to be true. I have to find that out for myself as soon as possible. The thought of not finding out is driving me crazy, and this was worse than worrying about dragons that were close to me.

But I didn't know which way to go still...

I hoped I can find the answer soon enough.

I dropped the bag filled with apples and my sword on the ground. I then sat on the earth and so did Alex across from me. She had her legs to her chest, looking at the ground as if she was deep in her own thoughts. Her form shivered. I rubbed my own arm, trying to get it warm. This night felt a bit more chilly than the last. I kinda feel fine with it, it's not FREEZING cold to me, but with how messy her clothes are, I think it was probably a bit hard for her to get warm. If we found a new outfit for her to wear that would've helped. A blanket would definitely help her out too.

I recalled the moment when I rescued her from that dragon at the fortress, remembering the pile of furs and blankets in that room she was cornered in. Looking back on it I was a bit surprised that one dragon would need that many them in one place. I know Messina had an actual bed in her room, bigger than ones that humans use, but that dragon just used blankets and furs lying on the floor, which I suppose I can guess THAT was his bed. Ain't a mattress, but he's gotta live comfortably.

If only the people in the fortress had those accommodations in their dungeons. Heck more than that, if only me or Alex grabbed one of them before we ran out of there. Neither of us apparently thought of that. We just wanted to get the heck out of there quick.

I stared at her in concern, seeing she hadn't noticed me. I wondered if she was thinking about her home like I am. I don't know how long she's been captured. Come to think of it, I never met her family at the fortress, if there was any. She hasn't spoken a word much about her past yet. If her entire family was perished, I absolutely feel for her. No one should ever go through all that. I'm still hoping my family isn't dead.

Or maybe she was thinking about all the harsh things she went through with the dragons before I met her. She has been through it longer than I have. I still feel bad for her about that.

I can say this, like I did before, at least she's safe and it's all over now. No dragons are gonna bother us anymore.

Better stay that way...

I decided to break the awkward silence, "Hey, Alex." Alex lifted her gaze to see me. I continued, "You feeling ok?"

Alex nodded a bit with a tiny smile. She responded, "Yes, I'm fine."

I said, "Feels kinda cold, doesn't it?"

"...Yeah." Her hands were rubbing her legs, "I shouldn't whine about it. I just wish my clothes weren't rough around the edges. I traveled in much better style than this."

I tilted my head at her statement, "Hang on...You were a traveler?"

Alex giggled deeply. Then she replied, "More like I still am. I'm not living anywhere. In fact I was laying around in a forest like this one before I was SO KINDLY taken in by a bunch of dragons."

I said in tiny relief, "Heh...And I thought you were going through the horror of watching your home burn to the ground."

She remarked, "I think I'm one of the lucky ones." Then her face showed she was putting herself back into her own mind again, "I don't think I've seen people that I know where I'm from, so maybe my home was about as lucky."

"Sounds like it." Very lucky indeed. I asked, "Where are you from anyways? You know, your home?"

Alex answered, "I'm from Grindorf." The name sent a spark in my brain. Grindorf....I heard of that place before. Where did I hear that name from? I can't remember if I heard it from dad, or something else. The silver haired woman formed a frown as well, "Have you heard of it by any chance?"

Not sure why that is, but the way she asked the question felt like she was asking about something else. I replied, "Hmmm...Maybe. But I don't know where it is if that's what you're wondering. Sorry I can't drop you off there myself."

Alex stared at me for a moment. Then she said, shaking her head with a odd look on her face, "Oh, it's ok. I don't know which direction it is anyway. I'm not really in a rush to go back home myself. You don't have to." She waved her hand, "You can just drop me off at any village like you said and I wouldn't mind it. No big deal."

"Right...That was the plan." Huh, I kinda figured she'd want to go home since we both escaped from dragons. I wouldn't mind dropping her off at that place, but guess she doesn't want me to. Wonder why?

Eh, it probably doesn't matter. She just doesn't want to go home, probably not feeling the need to. Have it her way then, I guess. Long as she's safe, that's all that matters.

It was now her turn to ask the questions, clearing her throat, "Anyways, what about you? Where did you come from?"

I giggled, "Well since I now know you traveled through the world, I was hoping you can tell me where Clear Sight is at."

"Clear Sight?"

I explained in more detail, "It's a village in the middle of a forest. Don't think a lot of villages are like that. Right?"

"...Right..." Unfortunately, she denied it after thinking it over a second, "No. I never heard of the place. I don't know where it's at exactly."

Rats. I let out a big sigh, "Ah, it's alright. It was worth a try."

"I'm sorry." She explained, "I have been at it for the past couple seasons." She gestured to herself with both her hands, "Obviously more prepared compared to now. But honestly I don't think I seen every nook and cranny the world has. Your village sounds a little special. What kind of person are you?"

I smirked. I replied, "Not so different than you. I ain't a tree person. Honestly, it's not like the houses were suspended above ground and I was living above in the trees."

Alex giggled, "I was going to ask that."

"Nah." I explained further, "Honestly it's like any village you came across I reckon...Just hidden in a forest. Heck it was supposed to be a place where it'll keep us safe from dragons. That's the purpose for it."

She commented, "Sounds perfect. Better than living in a fortress."

Well it certainly felt like a prison before I tried to leave, just not the prison we escaped from. I said, "Yeah well, it's been that way since I was a kid so it has worked. Maybe that's why you haven't heard of it."

Alex remarked, "Perhaps. But apparently it hasn't worked out that way anymore."

I said in a agreeable tone, "Tell me something I don't know." I looked away, "I have a family to find. My family. They weren't at the fortress when I was there. I just want to find out where it's at and get back home and make sure they're all right."

She asked a curious question, "I thought you wanted to find help and save all those people from the dragons?"

I looked to her, nodding in confirmation, "That too. That don't mean I can't search for my home and my family. I feel like going home myself."

She stated in agreement, "That's true."

I looked at my feet to sigh. I admitted, rubbing the back of my neck, "I wish I wasn't lost, like that little dragon we left. To be frank I never left home before. This is my first time in the outside world."

"Really?" Alex stated in pity, "Apparently the world is not exactly giving you a great first impression. I know what that's like."

I stated, "Well I don't know about you back then, but I feel so lost it's almost making my head spin." And I was so ready to make my journey from home too! This isn't what I had in mind!

Alex remarked with a smirk, "Hey, I'm lost kinda too in case you haven't figured that part out." She eyed around the area, "I don't think I've been around here before. I don't know where we are. I'm not exactly sure if we're heading for a village or not to tell you the truth. I don't even think I heard of a fortress near a burning volcano with no bright sunshine in the sky."

I moaned, "That's comforting to hear."

Alex said in reassurance, "Don't give up yet. We just escaped prison, remember?"

I said, "Yes, but it's not like I know where we are either, right?"

She said, "Don't worry, Dart. We'll probably find a village soon. Someone may know where your home is. You might be surprised how many people would know."

I nodded in agreement, "Yeah...We did have visitors arrive there before. I'm with you." I got up on my feet with a huff, "I hope we can find a village soon."

Alex said in a hopeful tone, "We will. We just have to keep going, like you said last night."

Right...Take where the road takes us.

Hey, like dad always tells me...Just look towards Horizon Peak.

Heh...Give me a break, I can't see a single mountain from right here.

I glanced at the wooded area then back to her. I suggested, "Listen, I'll go look for some firewood and keep us warm tonight." I motioned my hand to her awkwardly, "Well...Keep YOU warm especially."

The silver haired girl responded with a smirk, "You know how to build a fire?"

I playfully frowned at her, "Hey, hey, I may be new to the world but I'm not daft. Course I know how to build one!"

She giggled, "Okay, okay. I believe you. Wish you'd done that sooner. Oh hell, I could've done that. I know how to build one myself. Not like all the smoke I breathed in at the fortress had made my brain foggy that I don't remember how."

I joked, "I think my brain is less foggy than yours, cause it came up with the idea before yours did, so there." She just laughed at that. Then I told her while taking a few steps away toward the trees, "I'll go on ahead, be back in a bit."

Alex offered, "You sure you don't want my help? I can help you out with that."

I declined, "No, you wait here. I can handle everything. You just relax. You already went through enough hardship for a lifetime. And if I get myself lost, I'll holler and you holler back and I'll come back here."

She said with a small nod, "Ok. That's a good idea. Just don't take forever. It IS feeling kinda cold tonight." I nodded, then turned and went on my way, wandering back in the woods.

It was a little dark around here, but thankfully the bright moon rays guided me a bit through the wooded area. I searched around for good firewood for a little bit, but shortly afterward, I was also feeling a little wary about this task. I didn't notice it before, but upon being alone, I realized things were quiet. VERY quiet. STRANGELY quiet in fact. No sounds of the woods or crickets of the night were heard, except the sounds my footsteps were making. I find it a little off putting.

I always known what my neck of the woods sounded like, during the night as well, except during the time when everything is dead cold and snowy. It really shows that I'm not wandering around in MY woods anymore. It sorta feels like that small bit of nervousness I was feeling, when I was at the edge of my forest at home, seeing the wide open space for the first time, when I was about to walk away from it. Before everything got attacked.

I was glad before that moment that it didn't hold me back from fulfilling my dreams. But this was a little different. I knew that when I did start traveling away from my home that I'd have to get used to things like that, things I never dealt with before at home, but I still thought this was weird.

I stopped and peered around this part of the area. My eyes strained to see through that small bit of darkness. Okay, firewood...Where are you?

Then I heard a sound within the woods. Flapping. Close by.

I gasped quietly, my frame jolted a bit. Oh god...Dragon? My hand swooped down ready to grab my sword. But I realized I left it behind with Alex. My eyes shot wide. Darn it, how did I forget to take it with me?! Then I remembered I had my dagger hidden within my pants. I yanked it out, ready to fight. I don't know if I can win like this but-

I heard something again, but the sound was different than flapping....And then I realized what that was, and it made me feel totally stupid.

It was a hooting owl. It must have been flying from somewhere then landed, and then started hooting. That's what I was hearing.

It got me rolling my eyes, and letting out a whoosh of air. I put the dagger away. Great, got scared by a wee owl. How could I have not tell that I was hearing a little creature flapping instead of a big one?

Don't be nervous, Dart. It was just your imagination. The dragons at the fortress are just getting to you. Besides you were gonna be alone when you were running away from home anyway. Just find that firewood and get back to Alex.

I pushed myself forward, while also shoving down this silly trepidation that I was feeling. When I turned a corner around a tree, I barely tripped over something that I could barely see. Luckily I reared back before I did. It turned out upon close inspection, it was a fallen tree branch.

It was big enough to hold a lot of wood for the fire I'm about to built.

I smiled at it. Perfect. I put in more thought while my eyes squinted at it. Can't cut it with the dagger. I'll have to cut it with the sword...And it's back with Alex. I bent down and grabbed hold, then began dragging it across the woods. I'll just drag it back to the camp and chop it there. I think I was going to have to do that regardless. It didn't feel too hard to do. It wasn't heavy enough to make it impossible. I grunted with each tug and sharp pull I made, focusing on the direction I came from. I think I was heading back the right way. Surely I wasn't too far away from the camp.

Maybe I wouldn't have to holler for Alex after all...

Suddenly, something cried from a distance through the forest:

"HELP!"

I was frozen in place. What the-? What was-

"HELP! HELP ME!!!"

I sucked in a breath. ALEX!

I let go of the branch and immediately started dashing. My legs took me full speed past the trees, never slowing me down. I heard Alex scream again, "GET BACK! GET AWAY FROM ME!" I huffed and puffed through a bush as I kept pumping my legs. I didn't like the way Alex was screaming. Something must have met her at camp.

Like what? Did the dragons we escaped find her?

I can't let them take her back to that horrid place. I gotta help her!

Alex was just plain shrieking, and they took me back to where I left her. I finally ended up back at the camp at the clearing. Turned out Alex wasn't alone after all, but not with what I expected.

There were about six beings that had cornered her with her back against a tree. But they weren't dragons.

They were people.

I gasped quietly. I saw they were carrying weapons. A few I saw were holding swords, along with one grasping a small ax. I didn't like the way this was going. They were all ganging up on her. For what, I didn't want to wait and find out. I hollered, forming up a quick glare, "Hey! Leave her alone!"

They all turned and saw me. Those people looked menacing enough judging by their faces. Worse than Gunther's that's for certain. They weren't exactly friendly. A couple were bearded, but mostly their faces were dirty, especially with one of them having an eye patch over his eye, and another having a ugly, deformed scar on their cheek, like something burned it off. And with the way they leered at me, I imagined their teeth wasn't exactly the greatest pearls of all time.

But that wasn't the only things that caught my eye. What caught my eye was this symbol they have on their shirts.

Thanks to the moon above, I think I recognized it from one of my dad's stories. It was a skull with a snake going through one of its empty eye sockets, hissing at the person that dared to strike the person bearing the insignia.

My face went wide. Oh my god...These guys are...Bloodthorn pirates!

What are they doing here?!

One of the pirates said with a big smile, "Hey, looky here! The lass has herself a mate!"

Another pointed out, giving out a dirty grin too, "Looks like he ain't no match for us!"

Then a third cracked, "Or a match for her!" They all did their devious, hearty laughter.

Despite what I felt, I glared back at them. I demanded, "What do you guys want? Nobody invited you here."

Alex was shaking in fright behind them. The first pirate that spoke to me said, thumbing behind him, "Ah, we just wanted to keep this lovely lass company. Gettin' mighty lonely she appears."

I eyed and found my sword on the ground. But one of them is standing over it, guarding it. No wonder Alex couldn't fight back. They must've got to it before she did. I'd have to get through him to reach it. I warned despite my options, "You better stand down and get out of here...Or someone's going to get hurt!"

The ringleader told me, chuckling, "Ya think that frightens us? Ya can't possibly hurt us all. Tell ya what, since ya appear to have a long life to live, I'll give ya a chance to live. Normally we don't do that, but we can possibly make an exception. Got two choices...Either ya sit down like a good wee lad and die..." Then he pointed at the way I came from, "Or just simply walk away from here. Take me advice, stranger...Don't interrupt when we're trying to have fun with lasses."

His buddy yelled, "Yeah, get outta here! We found our keep and we're keepin' it!"

I didn't do what they said. I just stood there, holding my ground, trying not to show any fear while my heart was pounding away deeply in my chest. What am I gonna do? There's too many of them. I don't have a sword, I only have my dagger...But I can't fight them. Dagger or no dagger, sword or no sword, I won't be able to beat them! I'm not a great fighter! I wasn't looking forward to having a fight with pirates!

Or any fight at all!

Dad, why didn't you teach me how to freakin fight?! I think before would've been the best time for it!

One pirate said, narrowing his eyes, "He ain't listening, Voss."

Voss, the ringleader, said, shaking his head a bit with his evil grin still on his lips, "Guess the lad never learned a lesson in his life. Let's go teach him one." Then he looked and instructed one of his goons, motioning at Alex, "Keep an eye on her. Make sure she doesn't do anything stupid."

Alex was about to try to run away, but the pirate held her still by an inch with his sword, as it pointed right at her chest. Voss and four of his pals began to advance towards me, all of them cackling deviously, possbily with the things they planned to do to me coursing through their minds.

Alex pleaded, "Dart! Help!"

Sweat was beginning to pour down my face as I didn't take my eyes off the pirates. If I don't do something, I'll die, and Alex will probably suffer a much terrible fate worse than what she suffered at Messina's fortress...And maybe die.

But if I do do something, I'll be killed anyways!

What am I going to do?! I'll lose no matter what!!!