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Chapter 1:

The First King of Dragos

Several hundred thousand years have passed since Michael, The Archangel, saved the Dragons from the asteroid. While the road at first was rough, the Dragons spread to all four corners of Dragos. As the years went by, they changed in evolution, becoming more humanoid in shape.

Michael was happy with the progress of these Dragons and discovered that Dragos gave a unique gift to them called Element Working. The Dragons soaked up everything Michael taught and passed their teachings to their young. This ability spread fast throughout Dragos, and Michael felt confident about the Dragon's ability to defend themselves. It also allowed Michael to plan his next move and trained them in everything needed to rule a prosperous kingdom.

All five regions of Dragos were unique. However, everyone knew on a fundamental level that they were all Dragons and loved to see their brethren. Even if they argued over simple matters, they greatly respected their kind and the balance of Dragos. They knew that the whole world would be chaotic without balance. All four regions answered to the Supreme Region.

The Kings of Dragos were not chosen by family heritage but because Dragos gave a special gift to those she thought were worthy. Michael saw this gift and knew it had the best chance for the Dragon race to succeed. This gift was an ability in addition to the Element Workings, and Michael decreed that any Dragon possessing such a capability would be crowned King of Dragos. Nothing happened for several years, and it took everyone by surprise. The first one to experience this precious gift was a Water Dragon named Zor Zallerferd when an accident happened in the capital city of the Water Region, Trident Rising.

Five-year-old Zor traveled home from his lessons at the local school. Zor walked down the same path as usual when a massive crate of iron ore dropped. Zor heard the rope start to break and froze with fear. As the cable snapped, he ducked his hands over his head. Screams from the crowd cried out as several Dragons rushed over. They lifted the crate that, surprisingly, stayed intact to find Zor crouching, unharmed, and glowing white. Word spread of this life-saving miracle.

Michael heard about this miracle and went to see Zor. Talking to him, Michael discovered that Zor could harden his scales stronger than tempered steel. Michael proclaimed that Zor would start his apprenticeship with him to learn how to rule.

That was thirteen years ago, and now Zor Zallerferd was ready to become King of Dragos. Michael was proud of Zor, knowing that he worked hard for this moment and put into practice everything Michael taught. For the moment, Michael ruled the Dragons from The Supreme Region, sitting in the middle of the other four on the equator. As such, the Supreme Region was beautiful, with trees and flowers. In fact, it resembled the valley the Dragons left back on Earth.

The Dragons decided to build a symbol to never forget where they came from, The Pearl Tower. This Tower was a mile high, tall enough to let any Dragon see it from miles away. In its entirety, the Tower had basements, schools, administrative centers, government floors, and the Royal Chambers. Well-kept gardens and courtyards surrounded this. It was the center of government, schooling, and celebration.

The gates opened to the roads to each of the four regions. Each gate indicated the direction one headed with one of the four elements carved by artisans into the mahogany wood doors. Every entrance had two guard towers with two guards in each. There were guards outside the gate to permit travelers and give information to those new to the Tower.   

The grounds were usually empty this time of day; only a handful of Dragons either went to school or conducted business with the King or the administration. Most notably were the workers stationed within this Tower to make operations run smoother. However, today was different, and everyone had come to see the Coronation of the First King of Dragos. Michael sent out the news about a month ago, so everyone could make the journey in time.

The residents living in the Supreme Region were the first to pitch their tents. These residents camped a week after the announcement to watch the celebration. Merchants also took advantage of arriving early to sell their goods. Fire Dragons sold handmade clothing and performed fire tricks. Terrain Dragons were making sculptures. The Wind Dragons painted and drew portraits of others while their musicians sang with instruments playing to the day.

Fire Dragons were second to come after the Supreme Region residents, making their presence known by the brightly colored tents compacted together. The Fire Dragons were a lively bunch, drinking ale and mead from the moment they arrived. This caused the guards to break up several fights.

Next came the Wind Dragons, who put up bright yellow tents. They added to the already playing music of their kinsmen and danced as they joined the Fire Dragons in drinking. However, to the guard's relief, The Wind Dragons did not have that many fights and would settle everything over a game.

 The Terrain Dragons camped in hunter-green tents and joined in the festivities. They were a race of patience and seldom outgoing. However, it is said that the wisest of dragons are found in Terrain Dragons, making them excellent in negotiations.

Finally, the Water Dragons arrived with caravans of aquamarine tents. Their merchants were among the last to arrive, selling seashell jewelry and other items. The Water Dragons were not prone to drink too much, believing alcohol would slow the mind. However, they occasionally drank the wine they received from their island vineyard. They brought water with them and entertained the crowd with water tricks.

The Water and Fire Dragons were the ones to argue the most. They respected each other intensely, but some of their ideas would clash, and Fire Dragons never liked being wrong. With them already intoxicated and the Water Dragons looking at their drunken stupor in disgust, it was inevitable that these two would clash.

However, the smell of food from the nearby vendors helped the two groups make amends to the guard's relief. Every Dragon headed for the makeshift food court, spending their coins on goodies. Tables were provided as everyone laughed and fellowshipped, enjoying the day much.

Michael looked out over the crowd from the eastern side balcony and smiled at the populous of Dragons, knowing that today was excellent to have the Coronation of Zor Zallerferd. This race advanced tremendously; their future looked brighter than ever. Michael knew the evil would soon infect this world and wished he could stay to help, but as any good general knows, sometimes there are more important battles to fight. Michael had a whole universe to protect.

Michael knew these Dragons trained and stood a better chance to defend themselves from attack. The assault would come, and he understood the training would be tested. Michael hoped the Dragons could repel the Dark Realm before the final unleashing.

Michael shook his head free from these thoughts as he turned back and headed into the Throne Room. It was as vast as it was beautiful, and it exceeded both. The floor sparkled with golden tiles accented with Dragon's Head Crest encircled by a white ring. The ceiling was stone with dark brown wooden support beams. Five banners hung about five feet from the center of the middle beam, representing one of the five regions. The first was red with a yellow flame in the center. Next was aquamarine with a light blue water droplet in the middle. After that came a white flag with the Crest of Dragos at the center. The Crest of Dragos was an eight-pointed golden star with each element in four points. Next came a sky-blue banner with a fluffy cloud in the center and, last but not least, an emerald-green flag with an elder tree in the middle.

On the north side of the Throne Room sat the Dragon Throne. It had a dragon's head on the back, overlooking everything with ruby eyes. The arms and legs curved out to form the claws that resembled the Dragon sitting on its hindquarters. The back of the chair and the seat of the chair were purple velvet, very soft to the touch.

Behind the throne was a three-by-four-foot painting of Michael. Michael did not really want it, but because the Fire Region wished to thank him, he reluctantly accepted. Michael decided to hang it here in the throne room for every King to see if they needed a friendly face to encourage them.

On the opposite side sat the oak doors heading to the rest of the floor and Tower. They remained closed to give privacy to the throne room. He turned his head towards the balcony to the long table in front of him, used for council meetings and nice dinners, which caught his attention. A young Water Dragon sits at this table, filling out a scroll. This was Zor Zallerferd.

"It sounds busy out there," Zor said as Michael smiled.

"Indeed, it does, my friend, and they are here to see you," Michael said.

"I must admit that I am still nervous. I mean… It's not every day one becomes King."

"I know you are nervous, but remember what I taught you, and you will be fine."

"Yes, I'm sure you are right. Are you sure you cannot say longer?"

"No, I must get back to my own home. I have been away for far too long. However, I am confident you will lead your people down the right path."

"Thank you, Michael, for those kind words. I just want to make you proud."

"I am already. You have been my pupil since you were five and have soaked up everything I taught you. Also, everything you have learned was put into practice with your day-to-day activities. You will be successful." Michael said.

Zor nodded, thinking, "I hope I never mess up. It shall be a shameful thing should I fail at the start. "

"Well, I hate seeing you go, yet I understand why you must leave. Just know that you welcomed back hither any time you desire," Zor said with a smile.

Michael looked kindly at him and said, "Thank you, Zor. I am pleased you understand, and I thank you for the invitation."

Michael turned to the eastern balcony again as the crowd below cheered and thought, "Zor only understands a small portion of the reason for leaving. I also need to let this race grow without me. It is the only way they will be strong enough to withstand the threat coming."

Zor slapping the rolled-up parchment upon the table, drew Michael out of his reverie. Zor looked up and said, "Time to get ready for the Coronation. I would not want to miss that, huh?"

"No, my friend. You really do not." Michael said as Zor walked out of the room with a laugh and went to get ready.

Michael chuckled as the warm summer air drifted in from the open balcony door. The wind had a slight smell of flowers mixed with the aroma of food. If Michael had been mortal, he would have gone down to eat. However, since that was not the case, he just walked out of the Throne Room to get ready.

As the day drew on, the two suns began to set in the west as the two moons, La Luna and Los Luno, hung in the night sky as pink and orange orbs, respectively. The air was still warm from the summer day, with stars twinkling down on the mass populace of Dragons. They started to gather in the Grand Courtyard, which proved inadequate for holding the masses. Oil cauldrons around the outside were lit, and bugs drew to them instantly.

The guards were on patrol around the grounds with more force to help break up any more fights or stop some from being completely stupid. However, most conflicts died after the meal vendors opened up, and even the guards enjoyed a snack. Even with the Coronation about to start, the food vendors were strong, knowing that right now was the perfect opportunity to earn a profit.

Suddenly, trumpets sounded, signaling that the court progression was about to begin. Everyone headed towards the Grand Courtyard with guards making room for the succession, dressed in ceremonial golden armor about their chest, arms, head, tail, and legs. They had long spears polished to a brilliant shine as they stood at attention.

As the crowd waited, a red carpet rolled out in the space between the masses as trumpets sounded again. Then the music started to play as little flower girls spread white rose petals before the four governors who came after to represent their own region. After this came the Head General of the entire Supreme Region Guard, Viento Whirlwind, decorated and carried a sword held high in a salute. His sky-blue scales matched perfectly with the gold in his armor. His wings tucked against his back, his tail swishing back and forth. Two horns sat upon his head with piercing blues eyes at the base of a long slender snout, and three little horns sat on both sides' backside of the jaw. Then came Michael, who always looked pristine and crisp, but even more so this evening. His white robes were glowing slightly with white light as his shoulder-length brown hair tied into a braid. A golden circlet on his head matched his golden sash tied around his waist; his white-feathered wings were dazzling in the firelight. Zor Zallerferd came after, dressed in white robes with aquamarine trim on the collar and cuffs. He wore a golden seashell necklace that sparkled in the firelight. His scales also shimmered in the light.

Finally, two guards came up from behind as personal protection for the King. They were just fresh out of training and eager to please. One was a Water Dragon, and the other a Wind Dragon substituting for another guard who became mysteriously ill.

As the progression reached the stage, the music stopped, and Michael walked with Zor up to the podium. Zor felt the whole populace's eyes upon him like a two-ton weight pressed down. He shook it off and concentrated on the task at hand.

Michael raised his hands and spoke, "My children, today marks an incredible transition and the beginning of a new chapter for the Dragon Race. Today, we crown a new King of Dragos, Zor Zallerferd!"

The crowd erupted into thunderous applause. Zor smiled despite his nervousness and even blushed slightly from all the attention. Michael raised his hands again as the group fell silent and continued, "Yes, this is a joyous time, and we have Zor Zallerferd here to lead you into this glorious period of prosperity. I have an announcement, but first, let us crown Zor Zallerferd King. Bring me The Scroll of Oath!" Michael said as the crowd exploded with applause, and a scroll wrapped in a red ribbon was brought to Michael.

Michael raised his hands once again, and the crowd fell silent again. He unrolled the scroll and read aloud, "THIS IS THE SCROLL OF OATH. IF THE ONE CHOSEN WISHES TO CONTINUE, ASK THAT BEING THESE QUESTIONS: DO YOU PROMISE TO SERVE THIS WORLD WITH A FAIR AND JUST HAND? DO YOU PROMISE TO HELP YOUR PEOPLE IN THEIR TIME OF NEED? AND FINALLY, DO YOU PROMISE TO PROTECT YOUR PEOPLE FROM HARM WITH THE LAST OF YOUR DYING BREATH?" Michael looked at Zor and asked, "Do you?"

Zor knelt and took a moment before answering. He felt nervous about becoming King and did not want to let anyone down. However, Michael had trained him for this moment and knew training was good.

"I swear," Zor said, and the crowd erupted into thunderous applause. Cheers and whistles sounded out from the crowd for their new King. Michael let them cheer for five minutes before raising his hands to get the crowd's attention.

"I now proclaim you, King Zor Zallerferd of Dragos, and may the light of heaven shine down on you and your kingdom. Now bring the crown." Michael said to a worker nearby who carried a carved wooden box. Michael opened the lid and pulled out the crown.

The crown was golden with four club prongs on the front, back, and sides. Each prong had a different colored jewel to represent each region of Dragos. On the front prong sat a ruby to stand for the Fire Region. The back prong had a sapphire to represent the Water Region, a diamond set on the right prong to represent the Wind Region, and an emerald sat on the left to represent the Terrain Region. Along the upper and lower rim of the crown sat a smaller gem pattern from red, blue, white, and green all the way around the crown. In the middle edges, the elements carved into the crown go from fire to water to the wind and Earth.

Michael laid the crown upon Zor's head and said, "Rise! King Zor Zallerferd!"

Zor rose to his full height of seven feet and four inches. Zor looked out into the crowd as he smiled and felt Michael pats him on the shoulder.

Michael raised his hands again, and the crowd fell silent and said, "My children, I know this is a joyous occasion, but I am sad to say I will be leaving you now to return to my own home. I know that you do not wish me to go, but as children, you see them grow, give them guidance, and finally, you have to let them go out on their own. The same is true for the Dragon Race. I have been with you since the beginning of this world, yet it seems as if it was only yesterday. I truly wish I could stay longer, but I must return. However, that does not mean I will not be watching over you."

Michael started to glow white as everyone had tears in their eyes. This angel that had been with them for thousands of years was now leaving them.

"Remember me fondly, my children. I love you so much, and I am proud of you all. Farewell!" The white light finally consumes him, and he fades from sight.

Soon, all the Dragons started murmuring as King Zallerferd lifted his hands and said, "My brothers and sisters. Let not your hearts be troubled. Michael has given us a gift: a little piece of him will always be with us. Today we shall make an annual holiday for everyone to enjoy and celebrate. Let's start some music: For tonight, we celebrate."

The crowd erupted in applause as a group of Fire Dragons shot fireballs into the air to explode in different colors. Zor looked up at the two moons in the night sky and thought, "We have a lot of work ahead of us, but Michael left us off to an excellent start. Now it is up to us to keep this world going. Long live Dragos. Thank you, Michael. Thank you for everything."

Hector went to The Pearl Tower Hospital in the basement during the celebration. He wanted to check on his mentor, having little notice beforehand that he substituted for his mentor for some mysterious illness. Hector was beside himself. As long as he had known his mentor, he had never seemed sick. In fact, he was one of the healthiest Dragons Hector knew, so it did not make sense. However, the one thing that Hector knew was that his mentor did not get sick until after the training session on the shore yesterday.

Hector shook it from his mind and rounded the corner to see Nurse Gailwind standing right next to his mentor's bed. However, the curtain was drawn so Hector couldn't see his mentor. Not that he would have noticed in the first place, because he was caught within Nurse Gailwind's beauty. It didn't matter how many times he'd seen her before; every time he saw her, it was always like the first.

She looked at Hector, and he quickly dropped his gaze as not to be rude. She smiled and walked over to him. "Hello, Hector. Have you come to see your mentor?"

Hector nodded and asked, "How is he doing?"

"He is recovering just fine. You can go see him if you wish." Nurse Gailwind said as she walked away. He smiled and went to his mentor.

Deep in the Dark Realm. A figure watched this ceremony from within the dark shadows; his red irises were the only thing visible. He quietly pondered what transpired and grinned evilly as he arose from his throne. He waved his hand, and the smoke mirror holding the image fades.

"Michael, you are a complete fool. You have just handed me those Dragons on a silver platter," said the figure as he began to laugh maniacally and went into the dark.