cryptidcat5105

[cryptidcat5105]

We fight every night for something

When the sun sets, we're both the same

Half in the shadows

Half burned in flames

- Beautiful Crime, Tamer

[cryptidcat5105]

Sky wielders AU

Part 1 | Art ... Part 13 / Part 14 / Part 15

New part everyone! Fun fact, at least half of this part was spontaneous dialogue I came up with around part 11 or 12 and I finally got to integrate it.

Anyway, as always spoilers for the Empyrean series and hope you enjoy!

Earsplitting roars and crackling fire were the only sounds Xaden could hear all around him. Whoever thought (cough Theophanie cough) trying to take over Zolya, again, was a good idea was the biggest idiot to ever exist and he would like to throttle them.

Riding a battle wyvern in the middle of a literal storm with invisible irids shooting past him at neck breaking speeds was a bit nerve wracking, but nothing he couldn't deal with. Biodach couldn't keep up with the larger wyvern so instead he just clung to Xaden's back like a glorified backpack. He was surprisingly helpful, shooting lightning at any gray that got too close. Whenever he ran out of power he would leach whatever Xaden was willing to give him.

Liam was freezing grays left and right and Baide was flying around him and Deigh, cutting down wyverns like an expert. She was living proof that small dragons are just as deadly as big ones. Xaden watched as the three took down a wyvern nearly the size of Tairn and realized too late that a gray was about to crash into his own wyvern. He was flug from the black's back and was now free falling. Biodach was screeching, trying desperately to slow Xaden fall, but to no avail. He was too small.

In a fraction of a moment, he saw a faint shimmer of silver scales below them. He pushed as much power to the little wyvern as he could before making the little guy let go. He then spread out his shadows and luckily they caught onto the irid. The dragon wasn't very impressed, but did let Xaden catch a ride until he could get to another wyvern.

Another screech from behind got his attention and when he looked Biodach was hot on their tail, but now his chest was glowing with sky power and he was the size of a gryphon. Xaden just looked at him for a moment thinking "well isn't magic a wonderous thing" before sending his shadows to latch onto the wyvern.

That's when he felt it. The unnatural shift in his shadow, as if they stretched out way out of his range, as if someone pulled on them.

Suddenly a riot of dragons and gryphons lead by a blue morningstartail emerged from his shadows and the only thing keeping him from calling the shadows back was Aaric threatening him with great amounts of violence if he did.

Once the last red swordtail was out of the shadows and they return to normal, Xaden flung himself onto Biodach's back and urged the wyvern to follow the riot. He could see the last dragon's rider thumbling off, but luckily the small wyvern was fast enough for Xaden to catch the blue-haired maniac.

Xaden: Cadet Hale, it is usually advised that you stay on your dragon.

Ari, exhausted: Cadet Hale? C'mon man, I saved your ass before, just call me Ari like everyone else!

Xaden: Well I'm not everyone else now, am I? Come on now, back to your dragon. And stay on this time.

Ari, after a brief pause: Ionnsaigh, you bastard, I'm your rider! Whose side are you on?!

Xaden: I'm taking that as my cue that I'm right, as always.

Ari: Smug bastards. The both of you.

The battle ranged on with fervor now that the riot came to help. With each drop of power Xaden gave Biodach, the bigger his blast range was and the faster he could maneuver between enemies, swiftly ripping grays open with his split tail.

As Xaden came face to face with the biggest enemy wyvern, he could see a Maven's purple robes billowing in the currents of the storm. Biodach circled the gray from above and just as his chest started glowing with the power of a lightning charge, the thunder rumbling in the distance turned to sharp shrieking as lightning lit up the entire area, taking out at least half the grays.

Xaden knew there was no way in hell Biodach could've been the cause of that which was only confirmed by his beautifully vicious Sgaeyl diving down followed closely by her behemoth of a mate, who had his wife on his back. His brilliant fucking Violence looked like Dunne herself riding into battle and eliminating any and all enemies. The sky has fully surrendered to her and hell hath no fury like Violet Sorrengail- no, Violet Riorson, on a mission.

Sgaeyl sent the giant wyvern pummeling below and came to fly right in front of him and Biodach. She looked at the with sharp golden eyes and blew smoke at them. Xaden felt like a child being scolded by their mother after they ran away in the town market.

Sgaeyl: You are never running away again without me or the violent one.

Xaden: Call me sappy, but I don't ever want to do that again either.

Sgaeyl: Yeah, yeah, don't get mushy now. Hop on.

Xaden: Missed you too, my vicious one.

The battle ended quick after that, Violet taking out half the grays driving the venin into a retreat. Once they landed Xaden locked eyes with his Violence and his knees nearly buckled. Her shield were locked up tight, but he could see the determination in her now silver eyes. Suddenly she let her shields wide open for him and he was hit by a barrage relief and love. Faster than he could blink Violet was in his arms and they both fell to their knees. Xaden was holding her as if she might disappear if he let go and he could faintly sense Liam approaching them. Violet didn't even lift up her head from where it was buried in Xaden's shoulder, she simply reached out a hand motioning for Liam to join the hug.

Liam: See, you didn't lose us!

Xaden: Shut up or I'm feeding you to Biodach.

Liam: Nah, you love me too much!

Violet: I missed you two! Let's agree to never do this again.

As everyone started to wind down from the battle they began the process of cleaning up the place and assessing the damages. The fliers were particularly emotional about the whole ordeal. They put Drake in charge for now since he was the highest ranking flier and he'll put together a group from the Battalion to take care of the place once they had to leave.

The main crew (royal/iron squad, sky wielders and the battalion trio aka Theophanie, Killian and Naolin) were gathered in the lounge area for the Cliffsbane cadets. Owen and Sloane spent 45 minutes screaming at Liam, only interrupted by Aaric who came to drag Sloane to Dain since he insisted they should eat something. Xaden hasn't let go of Violet so far and she asked him all sorts of questions, sometimes turning her attention to the Battalion trio as well.

At one point, once they were all pleasantly tipsy after finding an old stash, Violet thought back on the Fables of the Barren. She couldn't believe that that book was the reason she and her sky wielders were here today and wondered what else in it was true. She glanced Killian's way and took a chance.

Violet: So... I was always curious, does the tale of the three brothers hold any truth to it?

Theophanie: Tale of the three brothers?

Liam: Yeah, the one where one brother bonds a dragon, one a gryphon and the third pull from the earth.

Theophanie: Never heard of it, but I'm intrigued!

Killian: That is... A very condensed and not entirely acurate version, yes.

Liam: Wait, so it's true?

Theophanie and Naolin: Story time! Story time! Story-

Killian: Alright, alright!... Well, for a bit of context, they were all pretty young when the story takes place, the youngest was still a teenager, around fourteen or fifteen. They lived on the north-east of the Barrens, near the old gryphon nests. The first brother wasn't even a brother at all, she was a sister. Her name was Sorra and she didn't actually bond a dragon. What she did was save a tumbling dragon agg from smashing into some rocks. That's how she befriended a dragon. An irid more specifically. The dragon, as a thank you, taught her how to channel from the sky. Sorra was the first ever sky wielder, I suppose. I can say with certainty she'd definitely be proud of what you've accomplished, Maven Riorson.

Violet, smirking: We're glad to carry on her legacy!

Killian, retuning a smile: Next we've got Aira, her twin. He was fascinated by all things magic, but especially gryphons. One day he was sneaking around the nests to catch a glimpse of a gryphon cub and slipped off the steep cliffs. He landed of the back of a gryphon midfilght and hung on for dear life until it landed. That's how he bonded and why that's the way you fliers bond today.

Cat: Huh, I don't think anyone ever questioned the way we bond.

Aaric: Nobody questions the way we bond with dragons either, although I think it's because of the impending death risk.

Killian, side-eyeing the two: Sorra and Aira were formidable, a force to be reckoned with and their younger brother wanted nothing more than to be just like them. He wasn't really successful though, he never bonded or got taught how to channel, but magic likes all things in balance, so the earth gifted him a fraction of its power.

Liam: Just like me, right?

Killian: Indeed. At first that got his siblings' attention, but they quickly turned back to their own training and responsibilities. The little brother grew more desperate, wanting his siblings approval, so he asked the earth for more power. With each new trick he was just a little closer to just getting his siblings to see him, stand at the same level with them, but alas, he was still pushed to the side. One day, in one of his many attempts to impress Sorra and Aira, the earth refused to lend any more of its power. That's when he grew greedy, that's when, for the first time, he pulled. He didn't know of the consequences, about killing the earth. When the twins saw what he was doing they tried to stop him, but when Aira stepped on the drain land, he-... He got drained as well. He died and it was all my fault, because I got too greedy-

Violet, softly: You're the third brother...

Killian, tearing: sorry, I-... Yeah. I'm also the reason we're fighting a fucking war right now, so go on, be angry. I'm trying my best to fix this, but you can kill me if it would make you feel better.

Xaden, growling: Hey!

Xaden's shadows wrapped gently around Killian's shoulders, but the Sage refused to look any of them in the eye.

Xaden: How old were you?

Killian: What?

Xaden: You said you were pretty young when this happened. How old were you?

Killian: I don't know. As I said, maybe fourteen or fifteenth, what difference does that make?

Xaden: Did you know that would happen? That it would kill Aira?

Killian: NO! No, I had no idea! Do you truly think I would've purposefully killed my brother?! I was the first venin out there, I didn't know that would happen!

Xaden: So it was an accident then. No, let me finish. You were a child and you made a mistake, sure, but that doesn't mean you're beyond redemption. Look at your whole Battalion, you helped these people when they regreted doing the same mistake as you. You're not a villain, or a monster, or whatever else you made up in your head.

The small group started vehemently agreeing, but Killian just shook his head.

Xaden: Does it make me a monster? Because I pulled?

Killian: It's not the same! You pulled to protect Basgiath and the people in it!

Xaden: Really? Because how I see it I couldn've hurt Sgaeyl. I could've killed her just like what happened to Aira. So I'll ask again, am I a monster?

Killian: No...

Xaden: Exactly, so stop beating yourself up over it. You recognized your mistake and you're trying to be better. That's what's really important.

The Sage was now full on sobbing as Theophanie and Naolin pull him into a hug. By the time he finally calmed down the flames in the fireplace was just a pile of crackling coals.

Naolin: That must've been a weight off your chest Kill. I can't imagine keeping that in for, what, seven centuries?

Killian: Heh, more like eight, but who's counting?

Theophanie, hesitating: So... What happened to Sorra?

Killian: She was terrified. She helped me run away, but... when the king found out what someone channeling from the earth could do, he decided to get rid of my sister. The sky was a far more potent power source than the earth and the king did not like the idea of that power turning on him after what I did. She died alone and afraid, and I couldn't do a single thing about it.

Violet: I'm sure both of your siblings would be proud of what you're trying to do now.

Killian: You think?

Violet: Absolutely!

Naolin: I'm surprised you're still a Sage, being the first ever venin and all.

Killian: I never said I was a Sage, you just assumed and I never bothered to correct you. What other Maven do you think would be patient enough to organize this chaotic group of rabid gremlins.

Naolin: I don't know, I just never imagined you're the one leading the Battalion.

Killian: I literally told you I can demote you, what part of that screamed 'not the one in charge' to you?

Liam, chuckling: We should get to sleep. We have long day ahead tomorrow. Gotta get the runestones ready.

Killian: Yeah, you're probably right... Thank you. For listening...

Violet: Always, Killian!... On an unrelated note, I'll probably bring you the Fables of the Barrens to confirm the information in there, so be prepared for more possible trauma sharing moments

Killian, scoffing light-heartedly: I'll keep that in mind!

Part 1 | Art ... Part 13 / Part 14 / Part 15

[cryptidcat5105]

No sky wielders AU this week unfortunately, but I do have an angsty empyrean idea so there's that.

Major character death and spoilers for the Empyrean series

This takes place after the entire series is over, like there are still a few venin around, but they're not really a threat and Xaden got cured.

It was raining as hell and Xaden got called away to deal with some venin near the Cliffs of Dralor.

Not long into the night Violet went into labor Mira, Dain and Sloane were there for moral support and Brennan was there as both Violet's brother and a mender.

Things got really ugly and after the little boy with black fuzzy hair and hazel-blue eyes was born, Violet wouldn't stop bleeding. Lightning was raging outside as Brennan was desperately trying to help his sister. Violet could feel panic through all her bonds and she knew Xaden and Sgaeyl were racing home as fast as they could.

Sloane was trying to siphon power to Brennan, but nothing they were doing was stopping the bleeding. At one point, as Violet was holding her son they realized that after everything they've been through this is how Violet was going to die. Violet felt guilty, dragging Tairn, Sgaeyl and Xaden to Malek with her, but she couldn't bring herself to regret it when she looked at to little bundle in her arms.

The last things she did before finally passing away was send Xaden (who was cursing all the gods and pleading with her to hold on) the image of their little boy and slowly whisper "Liam. His name's Liam".

They knew Violet was gone the moment the lightning outside ceased and everyone got hit hard by the loss, but Sloane had an understandable breakdown after that and spend the following days holding the little boy and only passing him to someone else when it was either Mira, Brennan or Dain asking. Dain would often coax her into handing over the baby whenever she was almost sleeping on her feet.

These two pretty much adopted the little boy and years later, after Liam grew up he would meet Andarna who ends up bonding with him against all protests from the Empyrean. In their moments of peace Andarna would always tell him stories of Violet, but also of Xaden, Tairn and Sgaeyl.

[cryptidcat5105]

Sky wielders AU

Part 1 | Art ... Part 12 / Part 13 / Part 14

This part ended up more Naolin centered than I expected and I'm blaming my previous post for that.

Anyway spoilers for the Empyrean series and happy reading!

After weeks of training Xaden finally deemed Naolin good enough to go and talk to Violet. He wasn't able to channel from the sky, but thankfully he was technically no longer a venin, his eyes were now a molten amber and the red veins faded to soft silver scars. Naolin felt better than he's ever been since turning and he's grateful for the second chance Xaden and Liam gave him.

Sometime at the beginning of their training Gaelach offered to help them make some armor out of dragon scales after seeing how effective Violet's corset was. They were able to deck out at least a third of the Hearth and Naolin was lucky enough to get a full set for his mission. Gaelach also offered to fly him to Aretia because showing up with a wyvern would be straight up suicide (she also wanted to see her dad, sue her).

The flight was indeed a bit awkward but Naolin thought Xaden greatly exaggerated the level of discomfort he was in. Sure it felt weird to not have Tairn anymore and he missed the grumpy behemoth, but riding Gaelach was like finding a new friend in his opinion.

Once in Aretia Naolin found it weird no one in the courtyard seemed fazed by his presence, until he realized that both Gaelach and his armor had a translucent sheen to them.

Gaelach, chuckling: This is how irids see each other when we're invisible. No one will bother you while you search for the Silver One or her den mates. Just alert me when you want to be seen. Toodaloo!

Naolin chuckled to himself at the dragon's antics. He didn't realize how much he missed a bond like this. He quickly moved on, not wanting to get wrapped up in those thoughts again. He wandered the halls of Riorson House aimlessly until he stumbled across the meeting chamber. The Assembly was just leaving the most recent meeting, but Naolin didn't spot Violet among them. What he did spot was Brennan hanging behind, just staring at the ceiling with a tired expression.

Once they were the only ones left Naolin allowed himself to take a step into the room and study the other man. He looked older than he should, but at least he had color in his cheeks and looked healthy. Nothing like the pale dying man he was when he last saw him.

Naolin still remembered the blood that covered both of them that day, how Brennan was slowly fading, whispering comforting nothings to him as Tairn was screaming in his head, sending imesurable dispair down the bond. He pushed everything he got to save Brennan, felt himself hit burnout and the bond slowly undoing itself. He knew then that he was going to die anyway, so he reached for the power thrumming from the earth and pulled until he was sure at least Brennan would live. Tairn and Marbh quited at some point, looking at the scene in silent horror.

With one last kiss pressed to Brennans temple, he walked away from him on shaky legs and kneeled before the dragons, begging them to make it quick. Marbh looked at him with suspicion for a moment before bowing his head to Tairn, taking Brennan and flying towards Aretia.

Naolin could no longer feel the giant dragon, a gaping emptiness painfully reminding him of the broken bond. He just waited for Tairn to finally send him to Malek for his mistake, but instead he felt a wave of warm steam wash over him and Tairn nudging him to get up. The giant black kept nudging him, trying to get him to flee, but when that didn't work he started roaring until Naolin finally bolted. Naolin didn't stop until night has fallen and he could no longer hear the sounds of battle.

Sudden movement brought Naolin back to the present. Brennan was now standing, weapons drawn and looking at the space where Naolin was hiding in plain sight.

Brennan: I know you're there! Show yourself and state your business!

Naolin: Gaelach...

Gaelach: Are you sure, Caring One?

Naolin: Please...

As the scales of the armor slowly faded to a deep black, Naolin pulled back his hood to look at Brennan's shocked expresion.

Naolin: I know that you probably hate me right now, but-

Brennan: Shut the fuck up!

Naolin was startled by the sudden outburst and the clinging of Brennan's dropped daggers. The latter was in front of the Sage in just a few swift strides and before Naolin could step back Brennan roughly grabbed him by the back of his neck and kissed him like a drowning man.

Naolin's knees buckled and the only thing keeping him upright was Brennan holding onto him with a vice grip.

Brennan, taking a deep breath: I should probably be throwing a fucking chair at you, but I don't even care why you're here. I'm just glad you're alive!

Naolin: Bren...

Brennan: I don't hate you. In fact, I don't think I could ever repay you for the sacrifice you made.

Naolin: You were worth it!

They talked for a few hours, catching up on what each of them have been up to while separate. Brennan understandably wants to throttle Xaden and Violet for keeping the fact that Naolin was alive a secret, but Naolin convinces him not to, since they both clearly couldn't make it to Aretia long enough actually to tell him. Brennan in turn convinces him to stay the night and go to Basgiath tomorrow to meet with Violet. Naolin agrees without much prompting.

As they landed in the Basgiath courtyard Naolin was beyond fury, beyond rage even. All he could feel was ice cold wrath towards Aetos who thought he could get away with hurting Violet. The earth's magic was singing at his feet, trying to soothe him without much success. Tairn, Sgaeyl and Andarna finally landed in the courtyard and the latter came up to her rider to inspect her, letting out a satisfied huff at the lack of major injuries.

The entire quadrant seemed frozen in shock. Mira was gaping at him, trying to stammer something out, Dain looked thorn between grieving his father, celebrating said father's death and keeping Sloane and Aaric from lunging at someone, then there was one of Violet's Sages (Katelyn? Katie? He couldn't remember) who was giving him a crisp thumbs-up. So far nobody tried to kill him so he counted that as a win.

He gently grabbed Violets arm and pushed her ahead of him as they made their way to the generals office, motioning for the Royal Squad to follow. Without much prompting he got the professors to handle the cadets and Kaori looked at him like he saw a unicorn. The dragons returned to the Vale (with the exception of Gaelach, who hid in the forest) not long after Aetos' body was burned and they probably tried their best to reach Aimsir and call Lilith back to Basgiath to deal with this mess.

Once inside Lilith's office Naolin got promptly smacked by Mira who looked ready to kill him herself.

Naolin: I deserved that.

Mira: What is it with you, Brennan and faking your deaths?!

Naolin: I never pretend to be dead. Bren was the one who spread misinformation here, I just tried to stay alive long enough to see this war through.

Mira: Does he know?

Naolin: I may have stopped in Aretia before coming here and I may have bumped into him.

Owen: Did he throw a chair at you?

Naolin: ... No, but he did threaten to. Is that some kind of inside joke I'm not getting?

Violet: It's better if you don't worry about it too much.

Naolin: O-kay. Not my circus, not my monkeys. Anyway, as we wait for the general to come and yell at me as well, how bout I tell you of Xaden's crazy new plan?

Naolin then proceeded to explain using wards to push the venin north. They needed to find the best locations for the wardstone and they needed Owen and Mira to extend the wards wherever necessary. Violet proposed looking at the ward runes in Aretia since they messed with the ones here at Basgiath, but she wasn't sure They'll have leave for that.

Owen: Sage-

Naolin: She's a Maven actually.

Owen, without missing a beat: -Maven, you are the Duchess of Tyrrendor, the only ones that could tell you what to do are the king if he's lucky and your husband on a good day. I think you are well within your right to take leave.

Mira: Technically true. You can also give all of us leave so we can come with you!

Violet: ...To Aretia it is then!

By the time Lilith entered the office the squad was discussing the best places to put the wardstones (they had Zolya and the Dunnes base jolted down so far). The general was not impressed with Naolin's "resurrection" and promptly kicked everyone out to talk to him in private. When he came out of the office he was white as a sheet but physically alright. He must've gotten one hell of a shovel talk.

While still at Basgiath, Naolin told Violet about Liam, how he's essentially the earth equivalent of a sky wielder and how him channeling has slowly regenerated some of the magic in the Barrens. He also explained that the venin are learning from Liam and Xaden and a good portion of them no longer pull like they used to. The world is healing and hopes are high, the only thing they still had to get rid of was the source of all their problems.

Naolin also gets introduced to Sloane who is a little intimidated to say the least. That man will bully her into training that siphoning signet, she's his new side project right there.

Soon enough Royal Squad and Naolin were making their way back to Aretia where Violet was greeted by an unimpressed Brennan. He was just a tiny bit mad but he'll get over it.

Violet and Naolin spend most of their time together in the wardstone chamber. They were carefully mapping out the runes making sure to get all of them in exact detail. Violet suggested she could weave some better runes herself, that would allow the magic to work even better, but after seeing what Violet's brand of runes look like he politely turned down her offer. If they did use those runes they would need Violet there because he was sure no one else could even decipher those mad swirls and Xaden would have his head if Violet stepped foot into the Barrens.

Members of the squad or Brennan and Garrick would sometimes join them to keep them company. Ridoc has simped for Naolin on multiple occasions and Brennan has tried to beat him up every single time. Naolin just finds it endearing and would often flirt with the ice wielder to get a rise out of Brennan. It was nice to fall back into old habits, messing with his boyfriend, scheming with his boyfriend's sister and just hanging around riders again. Don't get him wrong, he loved the Battalion, but he missed the specific brand of chaos Basgiath cadets brought to the table.

After a few days of work, Violet and Naolin had the entire rune pattern noted down and ready for the Sage to take back. Violet was not doing so great at the prospect of Naolin leaving without her, but he assured her that the sooner they defeat the venin, the sooner Xaden and Liam can come home.

The two were checking the runes one last time, to make sure there were no mistakes when Naolin felt the magic churn. He saw Violet's panicked look and knew something was fundamentally wrong. Her eyes were glazed over, as if taking to her dragons and when her vision finally focused onto him, her words sprang him into action.

Violet: They're in trouble!

Naolin: GAELACH!

Gaelach: We're here, Caring One! Everyone else is getting ready as we speak!

The irid jumped into the ward chamber and Naolin didn't hesitate to run up her shoulder and settled into battle mode. He could see Andarna dropping Violet onto Tairn's back as Gaelach launched into the sky and he was not surprised to spot Sgaeyl further ahead. Naolin dearly hoped the Battalion could hold it's own against whatever threat they were facing until they got there.

Part 1 | Art ... Part 12 / Part 13 / Part 14

[cryptidcat5105]

Empyrean Art

Can we talk about Naolin for a moment? Bro didn't even get a physical description as far as I know but I'm literally obsessed with him as of late. He just came in, became the most iconic rider on the Continent, saved his boo and peaced out. What a legend.

Anyway here's what he looks like in my head (btw these doodles are canon for the sky wielders AU)

Also I'm curious what other people think he looks like, let me know if y'all had a different vision!

[cryptidcat5105]

They'd either really get along or really hate each other, no in-between

Can you imagine Naolin and Violet meet and their immediate first words is a big ass fight over Tairn?

Naolin: He was bonded to me first!

Violet: He's MY dragon now, fuck you!

*Insert Brennan crying because his husband and his sister don't get along.*

[cryptidcat5105]

Sky wielders AU

Part 1 | Art ... Part 11 / Part 12 / Part 13

Part 12, my dragons, hope you enjoy!

There are some violent ways of disposing of enemies mentioned in passing. I don't think it's too graphic, but I'll leave this here just to be sure.

Spoilers for the Empyrean series.

Xaden hated Gaelach. Ok, maybe 'hate' is a strong word, but he strongly disliked riding on her back. They were currently traveling across the Barrens to some other Battalion base. Aparently there were quite a few places in the Barrens where the magic never seemed to run out (to some varying degrees) and somehow the Battalion successfully occupied all of them.

Killian was leading them north, towards the Dunnes river, where most Battalion wyverns were being actively made. He thought that if Xaden could tell Violet more about the wyvern, maybe she'd could figure out a way to take the greys out more easily. And that's how Xaden got stuck on the most uncomfortable 12 hour flight of his life. Gaelach seemed to have caught on to his discomfort and tried her best to accommodate, but nothing really worked.

This base was surrounded by desiccated land and tree corpses, nothing like the tall grass and pale green trees that surrounded the Hearth. Despite the ground's state Xaden felt much more relaxed once he dismounted.

Killian showed them the way trough the cave system until they entered a large cavern illuminated by dosens of mage lights. The entire place looked like Violet's room after another 3 AM insomnia fueled conspiracy debunking session. Papers were e everywhere something was hanging by ropes tied between pillars and chalk was everywhere. There was also a guy near the entrance that looked halfway feral while carving something into an onyx stone. Xaden's got the feeling these venin don't really see the light of day much.

The plan was essentially to teach Xaden and Liam how wyvern are made and for them to hopefully get these guys to become sky wielders.

Killian: You get these guys to channel from the sky and you've got yourself lightning canons on demand.

The process of making wyverns was something Xaden could've lived without knowing in all fairness and he's pretty sure Liam and the dragons agree.

Liam, a bit disturbed: So... All of them were once just a random animal?

Killian: Yeah, pretty much. We just use some magic to start the process of altering them, give them a runestone and stuff them into a cocoon until they're ready.

Liam: That's what the things on the ropes are?

Gaelach: What, like butterflies?

Killian: In a way, I suppose.

Xaden, scratching the small wyvern's head: ...What did Biodach use to be?

Killian: A cat.

Xaden: He acts more like a dog.

Killian: Yeah, the animal they come from is really irrelevant to their behavior. Most of our wyverns used to be sheep but they either act like horses or orange tabbies.

They move on to the creation of the runestones themselves and Xaden soon realizes they're made of the same obsidian lining the walls of the Hearth. They watch the feral venin from earlier etch intricate runes into another stone. They were so small and precise Xaden could barely see where one ended and the other began.

The venin, stopping and starring straight into Xaden's soul: You're like her.

Xaden: Like who? Violet?

The venin: No. You're like the first, like-

Killian: O-kay, that's enough of that, old man. Let's keep going, you two still have to see how we imbue the wyverns with magic.

Xaden kept turning the venin's words in his head as they were showed how imbuing a runestone not only powers a wyvern, but also connects them to the venin which imbued it. The whole process reminded Xaden of raising the wards. He wondered what else the stones could do if different runes would be carved into them.

With all the new information memorised they decided to head back the next day. It's been a few days since Liam and Xaden started training the venin and it looked like the effort was paying off. Some of them were able to channel from the earth instead of draining it and the land quickly started looking more healthy (no sky wielders though). As the crew headed for the Hearth they could see the lush forest that started appearing around the volcano. Naolin theorised that if they can defeat the enemy venin, than it would be a piece of cake to restore the magic to the land.

As it was, the enemy was currently spread along the navarrian border and if they could somehow back them into a corner, the Battalion could take care of those willing to change and the irids and sky wielders could make quick work of the rest. It was only a hypothetical, but it gave Xaden hope that this war might finally come to an end.

Liam continued training the venin as best he could for the day, while Xaden consulted with Naolin about a plan so out of pocket it might work.

Naolin: So, you want to make a wardstone out of a runestone?

Xaden: I know it's far fetched-

Naolin: Shut the fuck up, that's brilliant! We might not know what runes to use, but we can ask Violet to help us with that! We don't really have any dragons besides the irids though.

Xaden: That wouldn't be a problem, I'm sure there are more than enough dragons willing to help in Aretia. The real challenge is that we don't really have any more blacks.

Naolin: We'll cross that bridge when we get to it. The Aretian wards worked well enough with just six out of seven dragons. They'll last long enough for us to act if we someone pull this off.

Xaden: That might just work!

Naolin: Glad we're in agreement. I don't think we can just ask Violet about the runes via dreams though. We need a exact replica of the runes.

Xaden: So, one of us goes back? Easy, I'll be ready in the morning.

Naolin: Hold you horses, shadow-boy. You and Liam can't leave. They'll kill you both as soon as you cross the wards.

Xaden, pissed off: And who the fuck do you want to send then?

Naolin: You or Liam could teach me how to channel and we hope my eyes don't stay red for too long.

Xaden: Oh, so you'll go then? Kinda hypocritical if you ask me.

Naolin: Maybe, but they won't kill me if I'm discovered.

Xaden: Fine! You're training with me, let's get to work.

At Basgiath Violet was barely hanging on by a thread. The meeting with the Senarium went horribly and they kept drilling her about where Xaden and Liam went, it has been suggested multiple time that they should just kill her and she was overall just being attack from all fronts. The only allies she had in that meeting were Aaric and her mother, the first effectively shutting down the Senarium anytime they stopped letting Violet get a word in or threatened her.

Duke of Calldyr: *Keeps disrespecting her and calling her 'cadet Sorrengail' *

Aaric, on the verge of snapping: That is Duchess Riorson or her Grace to you and if you keep talking like that Duke Riorson will be the last of your concerns!

Duke of Calldyr, sweating: ...Y-yes, your Highness!

At the very least they dropped the idea of killing her (if reluctantly) and Aaric got to finally ditch his guards again ("If I'm not safe with Duchess Riorson's guard then I'm not safe anywhere."). In addition, the cadets were somehow even more dividend than before, a fact most obvious in challenges where violence was at an all time high.

Violet was really grateful for her squad and wielders, plus her sister being there made the situation just slightly more tolerable. Bodhi has also taken to teaching her everything he could about Tyrrendor and how to rule the province effectively. He was relieved not to be in charge, but at the same time felt bad for Violet being put on in that spot. To make her feel better he sometimes sprinkled in stories from his and Xaden's childhood, about how they where playing chase across the Riorson house, about sneaking out to see the dragons and even about Xaden's hatred for most types of footwear. He also sometimes talked about how Brennan was in the six years he was presumed dead, which prompted Violet to share some of her childhood stories.

A few weeks passed like this and mentions of black dragons defending poromish cities were more and more common in Battle Brief. Violet didn't know if it was the Battalion's wyverns or the irids, but she was glad to hear the villages outside the wards were at least somewhat protected. Violet's ability to dreamwalk to Xaden has reassured her time and time again that he was fine, unfortunately the bond between them was muddied my the distance between them, his form often appearing as a dark siluotte and his voice being muffed, as if underwater. They made it work though.

Violet has lost count of how many assassination attempts she dodged during these weeks. She dispatch of a few of her attackers herself, at least three cadets were frozen to death and a few others found their end in more gruesome ways. Some had their veins clothed with iron, others were missing internal organs with no sign of outside wounds and a few straight up had their limbs chopped off. Violet wasn't gonna name any names but she had a newfound respect for her Royal Squad.

During all of this Colonel Aetos seemed incredibly disappointed with Violet's continued survival and the fact that a good chunk of the attackers keep spewing bullshit about secrets and those who keep them only tipped Violet off to the threat he posed. (Dain keep offering to fight his dad for her, but she kept telling him not to get his ass in trouble for her. Aaric and Sloane just keep enabling him though)

At one point general Sorrengail was called to Calldyr for whatever reason you think is more compelling and Violet just snaps after another failed attack during formation. She just decides that fuck it, I'll just publicly fight this guy once and for all so we can stop with this bullshit. Tairn, Sgaeyl and Andarna were less than impressed by this approach but they let her do her thing. She acused Aetos of attempting to kill her on multiple occasions and challenged him to a fight.

Violet held her own fairly well and the duel went on for several minutes until Aetos triped her and pinned her to the ground with a dagger to her throat. The dragons were roaring in the back of her mind and were flying at top speed towards the citadel, but Violet didn't think they were gonna make it in time, so her mind went into overdrive trying to get out of the situation.

Aetos: No more Riorson to save you now, Cadet Sorrengail. Your time is finally up!

That's when Aetos was pulled back by an invisible force and he started screaming as grey tendrils crept across his skin. Suddenly as Gaelach reveal herself behind the dais with an deafening roar, someone with armor of midnight black scales appeared behind Aetos and as her savior removed his mask and hood she was greeted by sharp amber eyes and light scars where angry red veins used to be.

Naolin: Her name is Violet Riorson, Duchess of Tyrrendor and your fucking doom!

Violet lunged at that, slitting Aetos' throat open. Naolin threw his body to the side in disgust and assessed her for a moment before turning to the crowd.

Naolin: I came here bringing a promise of peace, but if anyone else has any funny ideas, just know there's an entire army outside the borders just waiting for her order to strike you down! Treat her with respect or meet Malek like the cowards you are!

Part 1 | Art ... Part 11 / Part 12 / Part 13

[cryptidcat5105]

Some of my posts got labeled with mature content and I just figured out it's because of the "liam mairi" tag...

This is the level of pain this man has caused us

[cryptidcat5105]

Sky wielders AU

Part 1 | Art ... Part 10 / Part 11 / Part 12

Sorry for not posting last week, inspiration just didn't come for this one. I'll try to get part 12 done by the end of the week to make up for it.

In the meantime spoilers for the Empyrean series and hope you enjoy!

Xaden was woken up by the commotion around him. The venin of the Battalion were getting ready for the day and what appeared to be the nightshift was finally settling down for rest. Xaden could feel a weight on top of his chest and when he looked down he was greeted by Liam's blond curls. He must've cuddle next to him sometime during the night, like he used to do when they were fostered together. He didn't have the heart to wake him up so he just laid there and waited for his brother to wake up on his own.

Xaden must've dosed off back to sleep as well since he was awoken again by someone gently shaking his shoulder.

Naolin: Well hello there! I know you two are spent after that battle, but you also need to eat something, so come on, up you go!

Naolin coaxed both men to get up and join the people having lunch. Xaden was surprised his back didn't hurt since they slept on stone but he wasn't complaining. They ate in silence, many of the venin looking at Liam and Xaden with curiosity. They reminded the shadow wielder of his Violence and her sky wielders when they weren't wreaking havoc. Many of them wore black leathers, similar to riders, that made them blend with rocks and obsidian of the cavern walls. What made them stand out were the cloaks or scarves or hoods in vibrant reds, rusted oranges and deep purples.

Liam was matching their energy, staring right back at all of them while basically inhaling his food. His vigilant eyes were thankfully no longer red, but rather they had a ring of firey orange around the edge. It reminded Xaden of the shimmering scales on Baides's neck, where she was mended by Kate.

Naolin: So, I've got patrol in a few and I was wondering if you two might be interested in joining? Familiarize yourselves with the land and all that.

Liam: Yeah, I think that's a good idea. Where are we going?

Naolin: North. We're trying to see how guarded Zolya is.

Xaden: So the Battalion can take over it?... Smart, I guess.

Naolin: Yeah, we tried that two times already, right when the venin first attacked, but we were a whole lot fewer back then. I think we might actually stand a chance with our current numbers and if the dragons help.

Liam: Well c'mon then!

Xaden: Have fun.

Naolin, pausing: What, you're not coming?

Xaden: I don't exactly have a dragon and Biodach can barely carry a medium sized dog, much less me, so I don't think I can.

Naolin: You can ride with me.

Gaelach, butting in: Or I could carry you!

Xaden, a bit uncomfortable: Um, I don't mean to offend, but are you sure?

Gaelach: I don't know how your dragons do it, but I don't particularly care who's on my back as long as they're not being menaces about it. I've carried lots of hatchlings before so you'll be easy to manage if that's what you're worried about. Plus, I kinda want to see the what's out there. Promise I'll catch you if you fall.

Xaden: ... alright then...

Gaelach: :D

They flew high above that clouds, using them as cover to approach the city. There were dozens of venin that seem to have turned the academy into their base and several wyverns were munching on what looked like gryphon remains. The entire place looked... sick. The earth was drained and and the venin looked like parasites in an infected wound.

Gaelach: These things are nothing like the venin of the Battalion! The magic doesn't like them one bit!

Soon enough they turn around, the crew venturing out into the Barren steppes where there really wasn't much to see. Xaden was surprised there was herd of wild horses grazing around the plains. The venin really must have all moved onto Poromiel if life was able to seep back into this wasteland.

The sun was just above the horizon when they returned to the Hearth. Liam looked like he had the time of his life, but Xaden felt tense. Riding a dragon other than your own can prove to be quiet a stressful experience. Gaelach didn't seem to mind in the slightest but Xaden felt like he was breaking some kind of sacared rule by riding a dragon other then Sgaeyl.

Naolin went to report the status in Zolya while Liam and Xaden went to spar near the lava pool, in order to blow off some steam. The shadow wielder could faintly feel the slight change in the trickle of magic as he was dodging Liam's blows, just like Violet said he would. Liam seemed to be better at sensing the shifting patterns, as he was landing far more hits than usual. Xaden didn't know if it was the lava pool or if he just got heated from the sparing, but, at one point, he felt like his skin was burning. He quickly reached for the sky and it answered just as swiftly, a cool breeze passing over him as the mark on his left arm started tingling.

Liam, out of breath: Woah, ok! What's what!

Xaden, pausing: Huh?

Liam, looking at the crowd that gathered around them: Can we help you?

An Asim: Uh... Why are you two and the land glowing?

Both Liam and Xaden look down and truthfully the cracks in the rocks were lit up, like the lava from the pool was flowing through them. The marks on both their arms matched the the glow from the cracks, the ony difference being that Xaden's arm was emitting a soft silver color whereas Liam's and the earth matched the golden glow of the molten magma.

Xaden, after a few moments: ... Magic is an interesting thing, isn't it?

Killian, pushing trough the crowd to get to them: How did you do that?

Liam: We didn't really do anything. We asked for help and the magic answered. It's kinda been like this ever since I first channeled from the earth. I'm assuming it's pretty much the same with the sky wielders.

Killian: Hmm...

Liam: we've been meaning to see if others can channel like this from the earth or sky? Back home there's a small group that able to go from venin to sky wielders if anyone is interested.

Killian, tensely: You want to teach them how to channel as opposed to... draining ?

Xaden: That is the plan, yes.

Killian: Very well, I'll see who's interested and split them into groups and you can start practicing in the morning. Sounds good?

Liam: Sure thing!

Killian: Alright then. And a bit of advice, always feel for what the sources are willing or not to do, they always have a reason. *Turning to the crowd* Now, everyone, scram!

After cleaning up and eating, Liam and Xaden returned to their sleeping bags. Xaden didn't bother pushing his brother away when he cuddle into his side. They'd only end up in the same position come morning anyway. As soon as they settled down, they were out like a light.

Xaden was on his hilltop, in Aretia. He could see the fog settling over the mountains and a blue shadow flying up in the sky. He could feel a faint tingle on his skin as a gentle breeze passed by. Suddenly he felt gentl fingers carding through his hair and the smell of rain and ozone enveloped him. When he turned around he was greeted by a pair of teary red eyes and a shakey smile.

Xaden, softly: Hello, love!

Violet finally broke and threw herself at him, hugging him tightly. They stayed like that for a few minutes, Violet just sobbing on his chest and him holding onto her like a drowning man.

Violet, sniffing: I know it's only been 2 days at most, but I just want you back already.

Xaden, rubbing her back: I know, love, but hey, I told you I'm never further than a dream away.

Violet: A relief truly... What have you and Liam been up to?

Xaden: Not much really. We settled in, went on a patrol, started a fight club. You know, the usual.

Violet, smiling: A fight club?

Xaden: Yeah, we were sparring and magic decided to butt in. Some people wanted to learn about it. I can't really say more, unfortunately.

Violet: it's alright, I may not like not knowing things, but it's a smart move. I can give you some pointers if you want, though.

Xaden: That would be amazing, thank you... Also, What about you? How have you been?

Violet: Aretia is... Exhausting, to say the least. I may or may not have already changed up the Assembly a bit?

Xaden, amused: A bit?

Violet: Ok, maybe I kicked everyone except Felix and Brennan out.

Xaden, laughing: Well I can't say I mind that. You're the duchess now, so whatever you think it's best, Violence.

Violet: You're not mad?

Xaden: No, why would I be? You probably had a good reason for your decision and I trust you.

They talked some more and Violet told him about her worries of going back to Basgiath, Bodhi wanting to drop out to help run the province and how she plans to confront the Senarium.

Violet: Do you think we'll be able to meet like this when I'm back at Basgiath?

Xaden: Maybe-

But before Xaden could answer any further Violet was ripped from the dreamscape and thrown back into the real world by a loud knock at her door. Cuide was already taking a defensive position above her, growling and swishing his tail, but Violet just gently pushed him off, threw robe over her night gown and opened the door. On the other side were her siblings and, surprisingly, her mother. After starting at each other for a few moments she pulled them inside.

Brennan had about a million questions about his sister's decision to change the Assembly although he didn't really push much when the white panther started looking at him like his next meal. Mira was just pissed about the turn of events with Xaden and Liam, she was skeptical about the whole venin-sky wielder-whatever ordeal before Draithus but now she's downright crawling up the walls over it and is demanding to be part of this alleged royal squad she's been hearing about. Lilith was probably the most calm about the whole situation, she just asked her daughter if she needed any help with running the province and to send her husband to her office when he returns.

This was all the awkward energy Violet needed to start her day and after a brief meeting with the new Assembly Violet felt confident enough to return to Basgiath. She trusted Brennan and Felix to help organize her new council and Garrick and Drake would provide significant insight in the happenings on the battlefield.

On the flight field the Royal Squad was flanking her and they were all decked out in new silver-lined leathers with Tyrrendor's coat of arms sown on their shoulders. Ridoc was grumbling about having to resow his patches on the new uniform but despite the complaining all of them were neatly placed on his sleeves the same day they got the new uniforms. Violet herself had a small bag tucked away with the new Quest Squad, Royal Squad and sky wielder patches, which she was going to hand out back at Basgiath. Even Tairn's saddle and Andarna's harness got a upgrade to match with their rider.

The flight back was uneventful, besides Sgaeyl being especially irritable and shooting fire at any dragon that got too close. Despite the daggertail's foul mood, Violet could feel her hovering in the back of her mind and she guessed that Tairn was experiencing the same, like Sgaeyl did want to be alone.

Once back at Basgiath, Violet was greeted by a screaming colonel Aetos. He was shouting about the irids leaving the school a wreck, but Lilith was there quickly and dragged him away by the collar. Mira and Ridoc came to flank her and somewhere in the back she could hear Sloane, Aaric and Dain shit talking the latter's father.

The cadets were allowed to go rest for the day and first thing in the morning the Senarium demanded a meeting. As soon as the crew reached the courtyard, Violet knew that some major divide must've happen with the irids departure. The cadets were split in two and one faction, composed mainly of fourth wing and first wing were apparantely being lead by the sky wielders. When Kate caught her eye she quickly got Owen's attention, who ran up to her, joining the group on their way to their rooms.

Owen: Are you alright?

Violet: No, but I will be. Liam and Xaden had to depart for their safety.

Owen: Hmm... As long as they're safe. Also Basgiath's gone to shit, don't trust anyone unless you have someone in your circle vouch. We're dealing with a traitor infestation.

Violet: I gathered, but thank you. How have you guy been holding up?

Owen: We have lost a few cadets in the havoc, but not any wielders and the general has been incredibly supportive of our group.

Violet: Yes, she flew out to Aretia to help me as well.

At one point the group split up and the only ones left are the royal squad and Owen. Violet ushered all of them inside her room to debrief Owen on the battle of Draithus and her plan on how to handle the Senarium.

Finally she hands out the patches and Owen gets a bag alongside his sky wielder patch.

Violet: So I was wondering if you wanted to be part of the Royal Squad as well, y'know, since you had my back from day one. If not-

Owen, vibrating with excitement: Let's fucking go!

That night, Violet kept turning in her bed, unable to fall asleep. At one point she got up and went over to Owen's room. She didn't even get to knock twice before the door was swung open and she was met with Owen's tired expression.

Violet: You miss them too, don't you?

Owen: Blondie mostly, but I guess the Duke of Angst deserves some worries as well.

Violet, snorting: Did you steal that one from Bodhi?

Owen: That man has superior naming skills and I aspire to one day be even half the legend he is.

Violet: You and Ridoc should talk sometime, I'm sure you'll have a blast simping over Bodhi together.

Owen: Pff- Nah, he ain't my type, let the king have his man.

They bantered for one more hour or so until they were both finally able to relax enough to sleep.

Part 1 | Art ... Part 10 / Part 11 / Part 12

[cryptidcat5105]

Sky wielders AU

Part 1 | Art ... Part 9 / Part 10 / Part 11

Not much happens in this one, it's more of a transition part, but I think it's pretty nice regardless.

Also y'all wanted the dual perspective and as I wrote I realized that this is really the best format for the next few posts. In other words, hope you enjoy!

Spoilers for the Empyrean series!

As Xaden painstakingly pulled back his shadows Violet finally let the power flowing through her slow to a trickle, effectively cutting of the glow that was keeping away the dark.

Deigh was pacing on the edge of the canyon, Baide pearing down in the ravine, when the darkness fully receded. The red didn't waste a second to jump down and start sniffing his rider, making sure he's alright with no regard for the growl Sgaeyl let out as he approached her rider. Baide also sniffed at Liam warrily, but quickly let out a satisfied huff and tucked herself into Deigh's side.

Tairn: Baide says she cannot smell the stollen magic like she could on her previous poor excuse of a rider. She has agreed to not harm the brave one and see how things play out.

After shooting her gratitude down the bond, Violet and the group were interrupted by a black wyvern landing a few feet away. The dragons let out low warning growls but when Naolin touched the ground Tairn let out a huff, relaxing.

Naolin, smiling: I missed you too, you old grump! ...And for what it's worth, I'm sorry for everything I've put you through.

Violet: He says he's not pleased, but he understands why you did what you did.

Liam: If you ask me I think all of us understand to some extent.

Naolin, noticing Liam's eyes: Well shit! I was here to see if I can cover for Mr Onyx Storm here, but looks like there's two of you.

Xaden, raising an eyebrow: And you are?

Naolin: Naolin Aisereigh, the reason you got Brennan seven years ago and Sage of the Black Battalion, at your service.

Xaden: Do we trust this guy?

Violet: Yes, I've known him since I was a kid. Plus, he's with Killian and he also saved me. Tairn also seems to trust him.

Xaden, after also reading Naolin's intentions: Good enough for me. We would need some help. I don't think I or Liam can stay in Navarre or Poromiel anymore.

Violet: What?! Why?!

Xaden: While I may not be a venin, they'll surely clock me as one after my little display. And while not many people know about Liam's ice signet, we don't know if his eyes will fade since he technically didn't pull.

Violet: So your just gonna leave?

Xaden: 'Leave' is a strong word. I prefer 'expanding our work area'. That's if this Black Battalion will have us.

Naolin: Duh, that's why I'm here!

Violet: I'm coming with then!

Xaden: No, you've got to stay in Tyrrendor, make sure they don't try anything funny with Bodhi or the province.

Violet, desparate: No! What about the mating bond? Us? Bodhi can take care of Tyrrendor, it's what he's been training for all these months, he's strong enough!

Xaden: Violence... this has nothing to do with Bodhi not being strong enough. He's more than capable of ruling this entire fucking continent If given the chance. No, I want you here because there's no one in this world I would trust more to lead the rebellion in my stead and take care of my home. You're the one who trained me to be a sky wielder, we both know that Sgaeyl could stay behind and we'd both be fine. This isn't goodbye, my love, it's merely see you later.

Violet: I can't lose you! Neither of you!

Xaden: Violet, love, come here! *Wraps his hand around her, the other still holding Liam* there is nothing that could stand between us. Nothing. You are my better half, my salvation and there is no man, venin or dragon that could stand in the way of me returning to you. So, Violet Sorrengail, my Violence, my love, my match in every way, will you do me the honor of being my duchess and letting me make everything I have ours?

Naolin gently prys Liam from Xaden as the two lovers are having a moment. The blond has a dreamy smile on his face, leaning heavily on the Sage, muttering something along the lines of 'about time'.

After that Xaden sent Liam with Naolin to round up the rest of the Battalion than get to the Dunne temple, while he and Violet devised a plan. They decided to try asking Dionadair for advice and his response was effectively just "fuck it, we ball" and called his entire den to Aretia, bringing a few dragon eggs as collateral. The Vale was in pandemonium for several hours as the irids and violently split from the empyrean and headed east. Gaelach was leading a good chunk of the riot, her now black scales and scorpiontail making her look like a bigger version of Andarna. She had her group camouflage once in Aretia and follow the black wyverns to their base in the Barrens after Xaden reached an agreement with Killian. Tyrrendor recognized the Black Battalion as allies, wheather Navarre liked it or not.

Then, when the moon was high in the sky, 10 hours after the battle for Draithus concluded. Violet and Xaden found themselves at the temple of Dunne. Inside, Theophanie and the priestesses were talking animately, Imogen and Killian were glaring at each other and Naolin and Garrick were watching over Liam who was dosing off. Violet never thought this is how she was going to get married, none of her siblings present and in the middle of a war.

As the priestesses tied her and Xaden's hands together with a long white ribbon embroidered with Tyrrish runes, Violet felt on the verge of tears the entire time. The golden flecked onyx eyes across from her, that were so full of love and adoration, were the only thing keeping her from completely spiraling.

Theophanie: May Loial bless this union and may Dunne let no soul stand between you. Now I declare you Duke and Duchess, uh...

Violet, before Xaden could say anything: Riorson.

Theophanie, with a soft smile: Duke and Duchess Riorson!

The two held each other for what felt like only moments before Killian came up to them, saying it's time to go. Violet kept begging for just a bit longer, but in vain. Xaden pulled her impossibly closer and softly kisses her forehead.

Xaden: I love you! And remember, I'm never more than a dream away.

Violet: I love you too...

That's when felt warm fingers graze her temples and let darkness welcome her. Xaden's arms were the only thing left keeping her upright and he gently gathered her in his arms. He gave her one last kiss before passing her to Garrick who was watching them with sad eyes.

Garrick: She'll be fine, brother. We'll take care of her, I promise.

Xaden, pating his shoulder: I know. Take care of yourselves too. We'll see you soon.

As soon as they were airborne, Xaden could see the small figures of Imogen, Garrick and Violet in his arms making their way back to the Riorson house. He could feel a deep ache in his heart at the prospect of leaving Sgaeyl and his love (Gods, she's his wife now!) behind, but he knew it was for the best in the long run. If Liam can channel to heal the earth maybe they can teach the Battalion to do so as well. The group of irids joining them was an unexpected surprised, but he was glad the dragons found hope in their plan.

The scales of Naolin's wyvern were warm under his hands, where he was holding on. He was suddenly reminded of Biodach in that moment. The small creature was flying circles around them and he could feel Violet's magic flowing through him whenever he got close. If Violet's dream walking didn't work they'd use the little guy as a messager (if he was up for it).

The 8 hour flight to the Barrens was awkward to say the least. Despite being surrounded by allies, Xaden felt alone, with nothing but the sky's magic to fill the void where Sgaeyl's and Violet's bonds were now muted. Naolin kept turning to him every so often, throwing him searching glances, but never saying anything.

Once they were above the Bay of Malek, Xaden could see what looked like a mountain range up ahead. The entire area was covered in pale trees and tall grass. As they got closer Xaden realized one of the peaks was actually the mouth of a volcano. Without warning, the wyverns dove straight into the hollow mountain and carefully landed between stalactites and stalagmites. Xaden never thought such raw creatures could be capable of so much grace.

Once on the ground both Liam and Xaden could feel the warmth and magic radiating from the ground and the pool of lava in the very center of the cavern.

Xaden: I thought this place was fully drained.

Naolin: It was. This place seems to regenerate, though we haven't figured out why yet. It was a former hatching ground but even that magic should've run out by now. We are grateful anyway, as much as we try to only drain enemy venin, that's not really sustainable for us unfortunately.

Liam: That is curious indeed. Also did the irids seriously bring dragon eggs here?

Naolin, head snapping in the dragons's direction: They fucking what?!

The irids were indeed gathering rocks and smashed obsidian into a sort of circle and nesting the eggs among them, breathing searing fire onto them after.

Naolin: Kill is gonna kill me... Pun intended.

Liam and Xaden are amused at the sage's suffering. As they settled in an bouncy Asim brought the both of them steaming stew, and offered to explain the layout of the cave. The venin called it the Hearth, which was fitting, and it was the main base of the Battalion. The wyvern mostly hanged from the ceiling like oversized bats but all the venin were mainly gathered near the pool of lava that was acting as a giant campfire. The Asim explained about all the different sections of the cavern: where they trained, where they slept, where they made their food and so on.

After a while, Xaden and Liam finally found their own space to sleep and they were both out as soon as they hit their sleeping bags.

Back in Aretia Violet was not doing so great. The Assembly has been pestering her with questions upon questions she didn't know the answer to. She understood why they had to erase her memories now, she thought it was a brilliant idea even, but Gods did she hate it. Ever since she officially became a duchess, Aaric has been constantly at her side giving her the best advice he could. The iron squad has taken to guarding Violet like it was their full time job and Dain has been coordinating every cadet and to work like a well oiled machine while she was still a bit out of it.

Assassination attempts had a 100% chance of happening so the Assembly kept pushing Violet to choose a few personal guards. Felix and Brennan were so done with all this bullshit but they both agree she should have some form of extra protection. That's when Violet finally snapped and locked herself into her and Xaden's room.

She had been crying for hours into Cuide's fur and all her joints were hurting from the exhaustion she felt, but she forced herself to get up and answer the door when she sensed Aaric and her squad.

They talked for a bit after which Aaric presented his plan to get the assembly to back off. Violet was now the duchess of Tyrrendor, which meant she had more or less full reign on any decisions that had to do with the province, so she could just pick her squad as the royal guard or change up the assembly whichever way she saw fit.

Violet: Xaden trusts them to-

Aaric: No, Fen Riorson trusted these people and Xaden just went along with it. You don't have to put up with advisors that undermine your authority and would discard you as soon as you weren't essential to their cause.

Violet: And who would I even replace them with?

Aaric: Hmm... I say keep Brennan and Felix, but you should choose the rest.

Ridoc: We could ask Cat for recommendations. Having gryphon fliers worked out pretty well for Quest Squad, so it might work here as well?

Rhiannon, amused: When did you get this wise?

Ridoc, smirking: Oh, I was always wise, you just weren't close enough to my genius to see it!

Violet, chuckling: That is a good idea. I think I would also like Garrick as part of the Assembly. He's been in this from the start and he's a great strategist, so him and Brennan could work off of each other.

Aaric: That's good, keep going with that line of thinking.

Violet: We should also get a scribe and an infantry soldier in the Assembly. I don't know who yet, but it would be good to have multiple perspectives.

Aaric, getting up to leave: Very well. I shall look into it then. Maybe we should ask Bodhi as well, I'm sure he'll have some valueable insight. I shall take my leave now, have a good evening everyone.

Sawyer, teasingly: You as well, your Highness!

Violet, after Aaric left: So, would you guys lke to be Aretia's royal squad?

Ridoc: Do we get a patch? I'd love to be part of the squad regardless, but I need to know if we get a patch.

Violet, smiling: Yes Ridoc, I'll even get you a new uniform with the Tyrrendor coat of arms if you want.

Ridoc: Hell yeah!

Part 1 | Art ... Part 9 / Part 10 / Part 11

[cryptidcat5105]

Sky wielders AU

Part 1 of the AU for context

So I've been thinking and I'm curious which relative pov would y'all like to see more in part 10? I want to do both Violet and Xaden, I just don't know if to make them separate parts or put them both into one big post.

[cryptidcat5105]

Sky wielders AU

Part 1 | Art 1 / Art 2

I made some more art, this time for part 9

Spoilers for the Empyrean series and the AU

Ok so first up Andarna, because she's an icon

Then we've got Dionadair and Gaelach ( Gaelach's new appearance will probably show up later on but her tail was influenced by Andarna)

Fun fact these two are old OCs from when I first read Iron Flame and they were repurposed for this AU. If you dig through my blog you might find their old design somewhere.

And finally Cuide ( short for Cuideachail) and Biodach

I really enjoyed making these even if the Irids did end up more colored than they were supposed to be in their feathertail forms. Blame my laptop's screen, not me.

Edit: forgot to add the fintail design. They're basically just fish dragons :)

[cryptidcat5105]

Sky wielders AU

Part 1 | Art ... Part 8 / Part 9 / Part 10

It's wild to think I finally reached the end of Onyx Storm and the next part will be purely my own canon divergent plot. Anyway, hope you enjoy the chaos!

Also, some art for this part

Spoilers for the Empyrean series. Onyx Storm especially!

The way back to the Continent was uneventful to say the least. Faris gave up when the crew showed up with a riot to rival the size of the Empyrean itself, Unnbriel's demographic probably shat themselves and I'm sure Courtlyn is happy that he's on good terms with Violet and Xaden. On their journey some of the dragons got bored of the land prey and decided to do some fishing. That's how at one point one of the dragons came back with fins and gills instead of fluffy feathers. Poor guy was a bit confused by the change, but took it in stride saying she got the idea to change her tail from Andarna. She needed to swim faster so she adapted the way Andarna told them she did when she killed Solas. Since no such tail variation has been seen before Dionadair spoke with the Aretian dragons and agreed to call the new tail type 'fintail'.

A few other irids ended up with different tail types but the large majority are still feathertails.

Once they're back on the Continent the riot makes a stop in Cordyn, where the dragons are more than happy to terrorise half the population by exploring the new terrain. Truly, the irids have been nothing but curious cats ever since leaving their isle and their elder, despite being around four centuries old and way into his grandpa years, is just enabling his den.

At Basgiath, Aetos looks gobsmacked, Lilith is just sipping on her fifth coffee, completely just embracing the chaos at this point and king Tauri is clinging to Aaric, happy that his boy is back. (That man may be dumb as a brick, but he loves his kids. He's a good father in this one. Halden and Alic only have themselves to blame for being assholes). The elder dragons don't seem particularly thrilled with a seventh elder, especially one that is a feathertail, but Dionadair just headbutts Codagh out of the way and immediately makes himself at home in the Vale. Many of the irids have taken to following other dragons around and learning their ways in order to be able to fight. The sky wielders' dragons are particularly happy with this turn of events and have proceeded to start teaching the irids the best ways to fuck with all the leadership dragons.

In Battle Brief they have been debating where to place the ally troups the quest squad has gathered and how many irids are likely to bond to help as well. They also learn about a venin attack in Suniva which was allegedly counterd by a riot of black dragons with the help of a storm wielder. Poromiel citizens thought it was Violet and her mother, but she knows that's bullshit, so later that evening iron squad and the sky wielders gathered in the archives with Jesinia to theorise what that could be about.

Flight Maneuvers are now More crowded than ever. Irids still haven't bonded anyone but they love watching the practices. The sky wielders offered to be stand in riders for any irid that might want to participate as well and surprisingly a few dozen were eager to join in.

A few hours later the Irids and sky wielders are the only ones left in the flight field, the dragons practicing formations lead by Tairn and Sgaeyl, while Andarna was teaching them how to attack in various ways. Violet and Xaden are watching all of this from the sidelines, being all mushy with each other. Felix also joins them at one point and gives them an Aretia status report. A few grey wyverns have tried crossing into the newly stabilized wards and proceeded to immediately fall from the sky. On the other hand there have been several sightings of black wyverns crossing in without any issues whatsoever, clearing out the greys. Violet and Xaden told the assembly about these new creatures being able to survive within the wards when they first brought back the little guy they ended up naming Biodach. Despite all the friendly interactions with these wyverns everyone is still apprehensive about them until Violet and Xaden are able to have an actual conversation with the venin who sent Biodach to them.

Next up: politics. Xaden and Halden butt heads over letting poromish refugees in and after a meneceing growl from Cuide, the white panther, Halden begrudgingly agrees to Xaden's terms. (Bro is having war flashbacks from Devereli)

Lynx still gets to be a shadow wielder, because I don't believe in the balance. The sky wielders break it enough as it is already, so what's one more shadow wielder in the grand scheme of things.

Anyway, crew flies to Aretia for rune classes and everything goes pretty much the same except everyone stressing over Xaden. (Inappropriate use of shadow signet ensues)

Wyverns attack at the border. Do I have an explanation as to why? No not really. Is the Dunne template still outside the wards? Yes. So Violet consults with the local fortune teller, Aaric, and is off to protect the priestesses. Violet encounters Theophanie again, but this time she has a black wyvern with her, not a grey one. She also has a new red cloak, similar to the one the venin in Anca wore.

Violet: Why the change in aesthetic?

Theophanie: Let's just say our first meeting made me do a bit of reflection. It's not every day someone tells you that magic mourns your poor decisions in life after all.

Violet: I honestly didn't think you'd actually listen to that, I'm actually impressed.

Theophanie: Yes, well, it's not wise to ignore the words of a Maven, even one as inexperienced as yourself.

Violet: I take offense. Also I'm a Sage, not a Maven...

Theophanie: Oh, I can assure you, you're a Maven! Takes one to know one after all. In any case I'm here with a warning from Killian: Berwyn, that wreached bastard, will stop at nothing to lure your precious shadow wielder out.

Violet: We kind of already figured that. Also, Killian?

Theophanie: Ah, yes, you've never been properly introduce. Killian Akira, the one who gifted you with the obsidian and the little wyvern. The latter was my idea but he seemed happy to agree. Him and his ragtag battalion are quite hellbent on helping you, you know?

Violet: what about you? You aren't exactly the most trustworthy, but you're with the blacks now, so will you fight with us?

Theophanie: I wouldn't be here if I wasn't. Now, there's-

She gets interrupted by the feel of the wards extending. Mira and Owen must've finally figured out how to do it, but before Violet could get a word in Theophanie was already on her wyvern flying at top speed. From above the temple none other than Leotha shows up and proceeds to be the annoying little shit he is. He keeps trying to convince Andarna to come back to the isles with him and when she keeps refusing he breaks the bond between Violet and her. Andarna and Violet stare at each other in shock for a moment before a low whistle and a shouted 'duck!' has Andarna throwing herself over Violet. Above them they could hear a loud swish follow by a wet impact and a pained roar from Leotha. When they got up the irid was thrown several feet away, his chest scales cracked and bleeding. Clawed paws, shifting from silver to red were on either side of Andarna and Violet and they could see a bloody morningstartail swinging violently behind the dragon.

Dionadair: How many times do I have to tell you before you finally listen? You. Aren't. Welcome. In. My. Territory! SCRAM!

Leotha barely has time to fly away with his injuries and Andarna manages to rip a few of his tail feathers before he disappears. Tairn is just really proud of his daughters, but is currently really concerned as Andarna is looking at her rider in horror, her scales shimmering in a deep purple, while Violet seems to be having a panic attack.

Violet's and Andarna's inner monologue: I can't feel her. I can't feel her. I can't feel her. I can't feel her. I can't feel her. I can't feel her. I can't feel her. I can't feel her. I can't feel her. I can't feel her. I can't feel her-

Tairn, trying to calm the two down: Uh, if you have any irid knowledge that might help it would be appreciated, Elder.

Dionadair: This isn't something that needs any special knowledge. You just need to reform to bond, Andarna. Take some deep breaths and think back on, what do you people call it? Threshing? It's as easy as that.

Andarna, hysterical: I c-can't feel her! I don't know how to fix this if I can't even feel her.

Tairn: Hey, it's ok. I'll walk you through it after all this is over and you two are in a better state of mind. Think you can hold out until then?

Andarna: I don't wanna leave her!

Dionadair: You won't, it's just a matter of a few hours wait. Think of it as sleeping, hmm. Come on now, the others have taken care of the enemy, let's go home. Also, I really like your tail type, Tairn. Very useful against pests!

For the next few days Violet and Andarna are inseparable. After they fixed the bond it was like shields were just a fictional idea for them. This leads to the two being more easily mentally drained, making them sleep more.

The Sorrengail siblings are understandably concerned for their sister and the whole 'prophecy' with Dunne, venin and Violet don't help much. This is what makes Violet and Xaden realize that, while not exactly a secret, the origin of the sky wielders wasn't common knowledge, so they proceed to explain Xaden's rider to venin to sky wielder pipeline to the siblings as an example. Mira still gets mad as fuck at first but since Xaden isn't actually a venin anymore she calms down somewhat.

More politics ensue and Garrick interrupts Violet and Xaden with a message from Theophanie and Killian. Venin are attacking Draithus and the battalion needs help asap, the two also warn the riders that Berwyn is trying to lure out Xaden (again) and get Barlow back with this attack.

Xaden and Violet don't even hesitate to go out and help. The black wyverns were already struggling against the greys when the Aretian riot finally arrived. Once Tairn and Violet passed a giant black she could hear Theophanie's voice screaming after her.

Theophanie: YOU FUCKING IDIOT! YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO SEND HELP, NOT COME HERE YOURSELF!

The Battle kept on raging and at one point a venin jumped on Tairn's back. This took Violet back to Resson, back to the first time she's actually had to fight a venin instead of just reasoning with them. Tairn kept rolling, trying to shake of the venin, but it's like the guy was glued to the dragon's back. Violet got out of the saddle just as the venin close in on her and barely dodged the dagger which whoosh above her head. That's when Tairn chose to roll again to get rid of the attacker but Violet wasn't fast enough to grab onto the saddle.

There was a deafening road above her. All the air left her lungs when she collided with a black scaled back. Did Andarna catch her? No, the scales lacked the irid shimmer and the bone structure wasn't exactly right either. That's when she felt a muscled arm grip onto her for dear life.

When she turned she was greeted by bright red eyes surrounded by spiderwebing veins. He looked different, but she would recognize her brother's lover anywhere.

Naolin: Hey, hey, little phantom! It's been a hot minute!

Violet: You're alive?!

Naolin: Heh, yeah...

Violet: Does Brennan know?

Naolin: Nope :D

Violet, nodding: Good. 'Bout time he gets a taste of his own medicine!

Naolin, laughing: Ever the vengeful spirit, aren't you Vi!

Killian, jumping onto their wyvern: I can't believe I'm saying this, but Theophanie was right. You are an idiot, Sorrengail. I'm officially demoting you from Maven to an initiate who shouldn't be left unsupervised.

Naolin: You can't demote a Maven, you're just a Sage!

Killian: shut it, Aisereigh, or I'm demoting you too.

Naolin: I'm a Sage too, you can't demote me either!

Killian: So you think. In any case, you should probably know the first years are also here, they've been evacuating the city. Also *pulls out Biodach from his cloak* Some kid named Aaric sent a message with him, something about an onyx storm, I didn't really get much. Also I thought I specifically told you to experiment with sky magic! This wyvern barely has the touch of earth magic that was use to make him, let alone anything from the sky!

Violet: Bold of you to assume I would experiment on my own son!

Naolin: She's got you there, Kill!

Killian, sighing: Just imbue him.

As the the wyvern beneath them kept fly under Tairn for protection (he's so done with his current and ex rider) Violet took Biodach from Killian and did as he asked. Instantly all the magic she imbued seemed to concentrate where the little obsidian powering him was located in his chest. His throat started growing and instead of firey sparks there were small tendrils of lightning escaping his mouth.

Naolin: My Gods, the baby can spit lightning! Let's go!

Violet: Yeah... Hey, how well can your wyvern aim?

Naolin: Pretty decently, why?

Violet: We're about to make your mount so overpowerd, you won't even believe it!

Killian: You two crackheads are a lost cause.

After imbueing Naolin's wyvern they kept freeing the area from the other venin and their greys. It didn't take long to clear out the airspace and regroup with the rest of the riot. That's when Violet felt it, the sky's flow rushing towards the canyon where she last felt Xaden. The entire area was covered in onyx shadows, rushing out, enveloping the entire canyon and the cliffs surrounding it.

Violet and Tairn did wait for anyone else as they dove straight into the mass of shadows. She could feel them caraseing her skin and enveloping her like a hug.

Violet: Xaden!

Tairn: Sgaeyl!

Sgaeyl: Oh, we're fine you mother hens! My ruthless one just decided to get rid of the dark wielder.

As they landed, Violet let power course trough her and light up the darkness. She could feel an unnatural chill in the air and faintly she could make out Sgaeyl who was trying the free herself from the chunks of a shredded net with the help of Tairn. Further away there was the siluotte of another dragon, laying in its own frozen blood.

Finally she caught a glimpse of Xaden. He was wrapped in his own shadows and you couldn't tell where one began and the other ended. The only distinguishable part of him were his now gold flecked scarlet eyes. The earth she could see wasn't drained or the rocky pit it was previous to the battle. It was covered in frosty green grass and all sorts of other plants.

Once Violet kneeled down next to Xaden she could barely make out a blond fringe buried in the crook of his neck.

Violet, starting to panic: Liam!

Xaden: He's alive. I don't know if he's fine by any means, but he'll live.

Violet: What do you mean?

Liam, with a raspy voice: The earth decided to lend us it's power.

At that Violet finally felt the shift in Liam's magic, it was heavier and far warmer than what it should be for his ice signet. When the shadows dispersed enough for Violet to see the two more clearly she could make out Liam's red ringed eyes.

Liam, with a tired smile: If you're the sky's champion, I guess I'm the earth's!

(the dead dragon isn't Deigh if anyone was worried. I like to imagine it's Panchek's and he's laying dead somewhere too)

Part 1 | Art ... Part 8 / Part 9 / Part 10

[cryptidcat5105]

This ^^^

Also Garrick and Ridoc would bond over their patch collection, you can't tell me otherwise.

Currently imagining first year Xaden being told about the patches and how cadets usually like to collect them and sew them on their uniforms. And Xaden just being like "no".

Meanwhile Garrick immediately jumps in with "I call dibs on his patches then."

And their squad leader is just like absolutely not that is not how any of this works.

[cryptidcat5105]

Sky wielders AU

Part 1 | Art ... Part 7 / Part 8 / Part 9

We're getting into the stretch I can play around the most. Get ready for out of pocket lore and dragons!

Spoilers for the empyrean series and especially Onyx Storm!

Once back at Basgiath, Violet goes on to read about Devereli in preparation for the trip south. She also goes on to interogate Barlow. She's not really interested in how Venin work since the sky wielders shared their experiences back in the first year, but she is interested in the black wyverns. He has only ever heard about them, but from what he knows they're just like the greys except maybe a bit more autonomous.

After that failure in researching their hopefully new ally, quest squad is headed to Cordyn. This is the same squad as in canon all though they were thinking of bringing Liam instead of Ridoc at first. They quickly gave up on that plan since bringing Liam would mean they had to drag Baide along (who was still recovering) and Violet needed someone to reign the sky wielders in in her absence.

In Cordyn Xaden doesn't have to, but is more than happy to piss Halden off to get Violet to his room where they take a shower and a power nap. As they both woke up they just stayed in bed a little while longer, talked a bit and explored the bond between them some more.

After becoming sky wielders it was like the bond between them became something much more solid, as if no longer depending on Tairn and Sgaeyl to function. They could also feel the others emotions more easily and read each other far better than before. Violet would've assume it was just Xaden being an inntinsic if she didn't know it was a two way street for this new development.

Xaden and Violet were both startled by knocking on their window. Once they got up, they could see the smallest wyvern they ever layed eyes upon, with a small bag tied to it's back.

Xaden: That's not even a wyvern at this point, that's just an iguana with wings. How did it get here undetected anyway?

Violet: Well, it's black so I'm sure it looks like a crow or raven from a distance. It doesn't feel like the other wyverns either, more... peaceful, if that makes sense. Think it might belong to the guy that helped us in Anca?

Xaden: Looks like it has a note, so only one way to find out.

They open the window and the little guy immediately comes to perch on Violet's shoulder and she notes that it's surprisingly light for a creature its size.

Xaden, after taking the note and bag: Alright let's see what goodies you've brought us. *Clears his throat* I know you want to visit Devereli. I can't say I agree with your decision but if you're going to dance with the devil might as well go in prepared. In the bag you have a barren obsidian from the former hatching grounds in the Barrens. They're used as a source of power for the wyverns after being imbued. Hope you'll find it useful. P.S. you can keep the little wyvern. He's completely autonomous so no information can leak back to me. You can test how they react to sky magic. Signed K.A.

Violet: Huh. So we both agree we're calling this guy Kaa until he actually tells us his name, right? Also where are we gonna hide an entire wyvern?

Xaden: Yeah, he deserves it for only giving his initials, but don't be so fast to trust him, Violence. I understand you don't see evil incarnate in Venin but we gotta make sure he's actually telling the truth and the wyvern isn't tied to him.

Violet, scratching the wyvern's head: And how are we gonna do that?

Xaden: in theory I could try to read his intentions. If he's still tied to his creator I'll be able to feel his intentions because of the whole hivemind business.

Violet: ... I like your signet more and more with each passing day.

They determined that the wyvern is safe and ended up hiding the little guy into Xadens bag. All curled up the poor thing didn't really take much space and it was oddly calm compared to what Violet expected from such a young looking creature. Would taking him to the isles be risky? Sure. Do they have anywhere else to leave him so he doesn't get killed? No, not really.

And so the quest squad is finally departing for Devereli. Soon after leaving the Continent Violet felt like a bucket of cold water was thrown over her. By the surprised shout coming from Sgaeyl's back she assumes Xaden got the same treatment.

Xaden: What the hell was that?

Violet: We're no longer on the Continent, so no more earth magic I suppose.

Xaden: For a source that's supposedly friendly, the sky is cold as fuck! Also, Sgaeyl is complaining about being cut of from Tairn and the others.

Violet: Yeah, he says he's cut off from everyone else too. It seems that he's only able to speak with Andarna. Probably because she channels from the sky and not the earth like the rest of them

Xaden: Hmm. If their bond is blocked how are we talking?

Violet: Probably sky magic as well.

Their arrival stays pretty much the same. Except Xaden is not nearly as fascinated by the lack of magic on the isles. Once him and Violet get to their room they check in on the little wyvern who started happily thrilling and gurgling once he saw the both of them. He proceeded to eat half the aperitives they found in the room and once the two settled in bed to rest after the long trip the creature came to curl up next to their tangled legs.

Xaden: He's like a dog... I've always wanted a dog...

Violet: Well guess he's ours now. We really need to come up with a name.

Xaden: Maybe later. 'Little guy' works for now.

Violet: You silly, silly man.

As they leave for the town market they leave the wyvern in their room. Poor thing looked like a kicked puppy but it gave up on following them and curled between their pillows in the end.

As the squad rode in search for the merchant mentioned by papa Sorrengail they were still getting harassed by the locals. This time in addition to 'fire bringers' there's also an occasional 'demon' thrown Violet's way.

Dain and Xaden: Should we fight them?

Violet: Nah, it's fine. Better than being called a venin honestly.

The conversation with Narelle and Riorgail getting interrupted goes pretty much as canon and our couple is now on their way to save some royal ass.

When Halden starts running his mouth Xaden simply wraps his shadows around him effectively shutting him up and stopping him from ruining the negotiations. Courtlyn is fascinated by the display of magic and Violet makes some bullshit excuse about their dragons being more powerful which allows them to wield even in a land with no magic.

Courtlyn brings out the kitties and now it's Violet's turn to be fascinated.

Violet, shaking Xaden's shoulder: Are you seeing this? They're albino! Xaden, they're like me!

Xaden: 👀

The mood is immediately killed by Anna Winshier's head on a silver platter. Now, Violet and Xaden get why Courtlyn killed Halden's personal guard. Hell, the two of them killed for less than theft, but this was still brutal to see. While still a bit disturbed, Violet still has her priorities straight, so she does the only logical thing and asks Courtlyn if she can pet the panther that's happily munching on Anna's head. Courtlyn looks at her with a raised eyebrow but he respects her boldness so he lets her.

Violet: My love, I know you've always wanted a dog, but how would you feel about a cat instead?

Xaden: ... You are insane, but I guess they are white and deadly, so you'd match.

Courtlyn is in a far better mood since Violet seems to be just as excited as him about the felines. Also Halden shutting up is doing wonders for this meeting. In the end Violet trades Andarna eggshell for them using Devereli as homebase.

Violet: Also, hypothetically, how would one aquire a little one auch as yours?

Courtlyn: Hmm, as it so happens, Shira had a cub not long ago. The question is, what are you willing to trade?

Violet: I hear you like magical artifacts, correct? I have this ability called imbuing which allows me to charge an object with power. I could imbued one artifact of your choosing with enough magic to last for centuries to come, in exchange for the cub. Sounds good?

Courtlyn: I do quite like the sound of that. Bring the cub!

Violet ends up imbuing Courtlyn's crown. He says it will be the sign of the true monarch for generations to come. Violet is just happy to get a cat out of this. Halden is mad but Xaden is just dragging him out the palace once it's time to go back to Tecarus' estate. The prince still gets banned from Devereli but at least Courtlyn seems to be on friendly terms with Violet and Xaden by the end. (They won him over when Violet asked to pet the panthers. That man is a sucker for his babies)

The dragons and gryphons are curious about the new creature joining their group and the feline seems to be always chasing around Andarna and Violet. (I imagine the panther rode in Violets saddle like those dogs with their owners on horses. I'll like a video here with what I mean)

The Basgiath stay is pretty uneventful, the iron squad works on research, the first years joining them and the sky wielders are doing damage control, doing their pest to keep anyone from turning venin. They are mostly successful. There's only one person that has turned and wasn't discovered by leadership. Kate ended up taking them under her wing and she's essentially becoming a Sage in her own right. Violet is very proud.

Violet and Xaden quickly discovered that the little wyvern is completely unaffected by the wards. They are still definitely up and stopping any greys from crossing into Navarre but the little guy is simply thriving. They chalk it up to him being untethered from any venin.

In the end, they kick Halden out from Quest Squad and replace him with Aaric and they also add the fliers so now we have the ultimate team to commit a new act of treason and head off to search the isles until we find the irids.

First stop: Unnbriel, the isle of Dunne. Violet, Dain and Xaden are far more excited at the prospect of a fight than they probably should be. They effectively wipe the floor with their opponents and the sky was lit up with lightning the entire time. All the residents are scared shitless of Violet now, but still won't help unless they're given dragons.

They also remember Violet from when she was a baby and they nearly dedicated her. Violet nearly being forced into a cult as a baby was not on her isles tour bingo card.

Next up: Hedotis, isle of Hedeon. Violet likes this island. It's pale an full of knowledge. She can identify with that. Everything was dandy, until they saw two children bolting in their direction. Violet was able to scoup up the smaller one while Xaden gently wrap a shadow around the other.

Xaden, laughing: Hey, hey! Did no one tell you not to approach dragons?

The kids, in hedotic, giggling: What?

Violet, also in hedotic, smiling softly: Dragons are big grumps, don't like little humans, so try not to get too close.

Faris: Hello! I see you've already met my boys. Welcome to our island! :D

Quest Squad: Thanks?

Talia, shock settling in: Xaden?

Xaden, in Tyrrish: are we sure we can't just skip this isle?

Xaden is understandably in the middle of a mental breakdown for the rest of the day. He's hiding on the balcony watching Sgaeyl pace around the beach. Violet is trying to help the best she can. She's never seen Xaden quite this upset before. Angry, sure, but never upset.

Shortly after his mother comes to their room hopping to speak with him another knock sounds at the door. Violet cracks it open, expecting another awkward conversation with Talia, but instead she's greeted by two wide grins from the boys.

The kids, in hedotic: Hello! We would like to spend some time with big brother if possible!

Violet, in hedotic, than switching to common: Ah, one moment. My love, your brothers are looking for you!

Xaden: Huh? My what now?

They spend a nice afternoon together in all honesty. The boys are really just excited to meet their brother and Xaden actually feels a bit better after getting two know them a little better. They played with the panther (the wyvern being carefully tucked inside Violet's bag) and Xaden somehow convinced Sgaeyl to come to the balcony for the kids to watch after they ask if they could see the dragons again. In the end they're the reason why Xaden finally caved and accepted to go the the dinner.

Faris still ends up being a dick and trys to poison them, but luckily Violet's cat ends up jumping onto Garrick before he could take a bite out of the cake. They give the triumvirate the antidote to the arinmint tea and leave the isle behind.

Xaden: You are all horrible people, I hope you know that. I hope Gaius and Simeon grow up to be better leaders than you, because you're all shit. See you never!

And finally: Zehyllna, isle of Zihnal. This one goes as in canon, I really don't have anything to add. Rest in peace Trager, you were perfect.

While looking for a island to bury Trager and his Gryphon, Violet kept feeling like she was being watched. She assumed it was just the tension between them and Xaden being ever the mother hen. Once they landed she could finally feel the hum of the earth again, stronger than the occasional warmth in Zehyllna. They made camp and in the morning everyone split, to search for any trace of the irids.

Violet and Ridoc stay behind the tend to the remaining ambers. Aotrom and Ridoc were foolish around, splashing each other with the foaming ocean water. Andarna watched them intently and when the brown had all his attention on his rider, Andarna disappeared into the background and then reappeared after diving into the water, effectively drenching the bigger dragon.

As the three of them played Violet noticed a shimmering blue dragon, watching the display as well. When it turned and she locked eyes with it more dragons in all sorts of light colors showed up, that's when she heard an ear-scratching whistle and then a young male voice.

The irids are not what Violet expected. While they seem fascinated by Violet's ability to channel from the sky they're also rudely dismissing all of Andarna's accomplishments and chastise her for giving a human access to the sky, which she quickly denied. After the irids firmly refused to help Andarna fled into the forest and that's when a second, more pleasant whistle sounded.

A white dragon, slightly bigger than Tairn emerged from were Andarna just fled to and the smaller irids looked like they regreted all the life decisions that led them to this point.

Leotha: E-elder Dionadair!

Dionadair: How many times do I have to tell you to stay on your own island! You rainbow parrots are not welcome here, go back to your own den!

With that he snapped his teeth inches from Leotha's tail, nearly ripping a few feathers out as the younger dragons fled.

Dionadair: Damn pastels, always thinking they can do what they want! I hope they didn't bother you too much.

Violet, angrily: Oh, bother doesn't even begin to cover it! They hurt Andarna! Just because you would rather hide behind your tails than help!

Tairn: Silver one...

Dionadair: Hmph. I do not associated with those rascals. Whatever they said does not apply to me, nor my den. Now, this Andarna seems to have stumbled upon my daughter and she's telling quite the story. *Looking at Tairn* Elder black, be civilised, don't growl at me. Call the rest of your den. When you gather, my daughter will lead you to our nest and you can ask for whatever help you came here to garner.

Tairn: I'm not an elder... But thank you. For considering helping us.

Dionadair, giving a mental smile: Not an elder? I would disagree with the way you protect this den!

Later when everyone came back the sun was hovering just above the horizon. Galeach, Dionadair's daughter, showed them the way to the giant cave mouth in the middle of the island, that was hidden from above by the foliage. She has been looking at Andarna curiously all day and must have commented on how cool her tail is at least a dozen times. Once inside the cave, it's like they stepped into a whole new world. The place was bustling with activity, white and silver dragons gathered in group idle chatting, others covered in soot and mud that came from digging deeper tunnels into the caves flew out to clean themselves, some seemed to be telling wild stories to a small gathering of golden hatchling. It was a thriving community an Violet could feel the sky magic they were channeling even this deep underground.

That's when a loud roar and a low whistle covered the thrills of the other dragons. Everyone snapped to attention and turned to look behind where Dionadair was coming into the light from the cave entrance. He gave the quest squad a nod and prompted Andarna to tell her story once more, in front of his den this time.

By the end of her explanation a good chunk of the dragons had their scales in dark purples and blacks to show their support. There were a few with bright red coats, ready to fight whatever threat they might face if they fly to the Continent.

Dionadair: I will not ask you to depart from the home we've had for centuries. Not when I myself know nothing of the threat we might be up against. But if you choose to help, if you want to fight for the peace of a home that once was, dawn the silver scales, I know I will. As for those who remain, keep your scales white and keep the nest safe until our return!

Nearly half of the dragons present shimmered in dark silver, all ready to come to the aid of the dragon they once left behind. Andarna look at Dionadair in that moment and let out a sharp keen and wrapped her front paws around the elder's neck.

Andarna: Thank you!

Dionadair: Heh! No need, young friend. Us irids will always help our own!

Part 1 | Art ... Part 7 / Part 8 / Part 9

[cryptidcat5105]

Onyx Storm questions

Ok so I've been thinking about some of the lore in preparation for part 8 of my sky wielders AU and, needless to say, I have questions regarding some world building aspects.

You don't need to know anything about the AU, but spoilers for Onyx Storm!

Ok, so, during the trip to the isles we understand that language barriers are a very real thing and while some aspects have semi-logical explanations, others don't.

First up we initially know that Navarre and the isles have cut off contact for hundreds of years and yet they have people who can speak fluent navarrian ( which would be impossible without contact as the dialect has more than likely changed over the centuries) but that can be explained by the fact that the isles still had some form of contact with Naverre, as reveald by Halden, and they were also still in contact with Poromiel during all this time.

Now this raises my first question: does everyone in Poromiel also just speak navarrian? There seems to be no language barriers between the two nations, which weird, but I can accept. I'm assuming there's also a large portion of the poromish population that also speaks Krovlish since Krovla is literally one of their provinces, but that's neither here nor there. (I don't really have an explanation for the lack of a language barrier so we're just gonna call it plot convenience unless there's some explanation I missed)

So now that we've established the language status between humans, let's talk about dragons and gryphons. I'm pretty sure at one point there was a mention of dragons having their own language, not sure though, but assuming that's true I think gryphons would also have their own language. Now, here comes my second question: do these creatures learn the common language or do they just get a magical translation via the bonds or something? If, let's say, Dain started speaking in Krovlish to Cath would he understand?

If yes, then things become a lot more simple and the questions stop here

If not however, that leads me to my third and final question: how can the irids understand navarrian? Of course dragons live for a few centuries at a time so they could have taught the younger ones the languages of the humans but 1) they would have an old as fuck dialect (think old english for exemple) and 2) it seems like a pretty useless skill for a people who live on a secluded island away from any other civilization. I'm pretty sure even the draconic language would have an older dialect, all though still understandable to dragons.

Anyway, languages are weird and I may be overthinking it. It's fiction after all, so I don't know if I'm gonna overcomplicate things in the AU either way. I might just make the irids speak in shakespearean english for the funsies, but idk yet. We'll see.

[cryptidcat5105]

Hey @bellsdraws guess what! The stars have aligned! :3

Here's some scenes from chapter 38 of Beastly. Again, for anyone who hasn't read this, I can't recommend this fic enough! Go take a look at the Feral Trilogy if you're looking for a good acotar canon rewrite!

I'll put a break here in case anyone wants to read the fic before seeing the art

Edit: I just realized Feyre was supposed to have her bargain tattoo in the last pic so here's the corrected version. I'll leave the first one as well because everyone forgets things sometimes :)