Pyra {SkyWing Shadows Headquarters}

She narrowed her eyes as she saw the unpleasant sight of Sorendár’s broken bones. “Yikes… i’m sure Scorn will have something to fix him. That’s my boss. He’s a bit strange. Scorn is an animus dragon and he’s been the leader of the SkyWing shadows since I was recruited- he’s a bit…” Pyra swirled her claws near her head to signal that he was pretty crazy.
“But don’t worry, you’ll fit in fine as long as you don’t mind intense dragons with no filter.” She smirked. “Let’s leave the prince here for now, no need to move him and further aggravate his injuries.”

Leading Sandy down a hall, she arrived at a large, golden door which was decorated with images of battling SkyWings. Pyra called from the outside. “Scorn? You in there?” Almost instantly, a large orange SkyWing flung the door open and glared down at Pyra, towering over her. He commanded that she come into the room, and she obeyed. Inside, muffled yelling could be heard, with Smolder reprimanding Pyra for disobeying orders and bringing in outsiders. After a few minutes, Pyra emerged with a lopsided smile and a cheeky grin, ready to brief Sandy on the situation. But she was promptly interrupted by Scorn, who spoke in a deep and gruff voice.

“This was YOUR plan SandWing? Ambitious. Let me see the prince, if it’s not him, you’re both dead. If it is, consider it your lucky day.” He sneered then bumped Pyra with his wing, pushing her forward. She quickly caught up to Sandy, walking alongside her as they led her boss back to Sorendár. Pyra whispered discreetly, “Don’t worry, this is normal- I actually think he’s in a good mood right now. He must like you!”

Peacock {IceWing Market}

Peacock's blue eyes flickered with a combination of surprise and delight as Likus presented her with the gifts, and her face lit up with genuine appreciation.
"Wow… Likus! Thank you, that's terribly sweet.“ She expressed, showing her gratitude for the thoughtful gesture. Peacock carefully replaced her current earrings with the matching set Likus had given her, tucking the original ones into the shopping bag that held her necklace. She then slipped on the bracelet, examining it with a smile that radiated her admiration. “It’s gorgeous, you have good taste.” She said playfully.

Slightly embarrassed that she hadn't gotten anything for her friends, Peacock had the idea to bring them to where she bought her necklace. Eager to share her find with Sahara and Likus, she began to guide them in that direction. However, when they arrived at the shop, they were met with an unexpected mystery. The shop owner had vanished without a trace.
Perplexed, Peacock scanned the area but couldn't find any sign of the dragon who had sold her the necklace. "I was certain he was just back there." She mumbled, her confusion evident. Just as she turned to her friends, the burly-looking shopkeeper appeared in front of her, almost like a ghost. His one eye bore an intense gaze before he abruptly flew away without uttering a word.
"Well, that was strange…" Peacock remarked slowly, her expression a mix of curiosity and amusement. She retrieved the necklace from her bag and held it up for Sahara and Likus to inspect. "He claimed it may or may not be animus-touched, but that might've been to drive the price up." She chuckled lightly, then began looking at the jewelry he had displayed. "I'll leave a payment there... assuming he'll be back."

Peacock's eyes sparkled as she discovered a captivating golden bracelet in the shop's display. The bracelet gracefully spiraled up, adorned with precious pink gems and delicate flower engravings. With a beaming smile, she lifted the exquisite accessory and presented it to her dear friend, Sahara.
"Sahara, this bracelet is simply enchanting. It would look stunning on you. What do you think?" Peacock carefully set it down for Sahara to look at.
Then, glistening under the shop's soft lighting, a pair of exquisite platinum anklets decorated with lustrous stones drew Peacock's attention. She moved towards Likus and held one of the bands near him, saying, "It matches your eyes nicely." She said, unable to hide her grin.

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Cassandra {SkyWing Shadows Headquarters}

When Smolder came out, Sandy squared her shoulders and looked him dead in the eyes. She didn't back down easily. But when Pyra said that Smolder was actually in a good mood, she relaxed and said, "Yes, Smolder, it was my idea. When I encountered Pyra, she told me about her encounter with Sorendár, and because of my being an assassin and knowing a thing or two about the appearance of the royals, I suggested we go after him, and we did." Sandy wondered if she should've told Smolder that she was an assassin. Maybe he would be suspicious of her, and then she couldn't join them! So she decided to cover herself just in case: "I don't work for the SandWings any more, not really. They were stuffy and stingy, and tried to make me stuffy and stingy too. So I left. Plus, Pyra and I made a good team when we took down Sorendár. I hope we can do stuff like that again."
Sandy led Smolder to Sorendár, who was starting to awaken. He moaned a few times and when he attempted to shift he gave a small, low whimper of pain.
"See, here he is. We couldn't bring him further because I realized he had a broken rib as well as a snapped wingbone. I didn't want to completely cripple our prisoner, y'know."


Likus/Sahara {IceWing Market}

Sahara smiled and gasped at the bracelet's beauty. The pink gemstones matched her pink highlights wonderfully. "Yes, I love it! I like it very much! How much is it?"
Likus admired the anklets. "They do match my eyes... but, Peacock, you really don't need to spend so much on me. You don't have to..." He broke off. Even though he didn't want her to spend her money on him like that, he didn't want to quell her excitement and joy at finding things for her friends. He imagined she was the kind of dragon who would be very sad if someone told her not to get them a gift, so he shut his mouth. Besides, deep down inside, he really wanted to accept something from her, so he could remember her when she left...

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Pyra {SkyWing Shadows Headquarters}

Once Scorn saw Sorendár lying on the floor he let out a raspy chuckle. “My moons, you actually did it.” He shook his head in disbelief. “Well, ladies, I have to write a report for the Queen on this, but I suspect i’ll be seeing you both again soon. This is a big deal, and we already have the Moon Alliance breathing down our neck…this’ll show those spineless lizards.” As he started walking away, Scorn called over his shoulder. “There’s an enchanted pool deeper in the caves, put the prince there and his injuries will heal in about an hour or so. It’ll take longer since they’re so severe. Next time, Pyra, try not to break the prisoners.” He spat, then disappeared into the hall.

Pyra simlly rolled her eyes and snickered quietly. “Y’see what I mean?” She asked Sandy as she motioned to where Scorn walked off. “Somethings off in that dragons head, so don’t take him too seriously.” She then looked at Sorendár, who seemed to be slowly waking up. “How do we take him to the pool? It’s quite a ways back in the caves. More importantly, how do we get him to stay in there if he wakes up?”

Peacock {IceWing Market}

Peacock reassured her friends, "Oh, it's really not an issue. I'm sure my advisors won't mind my spending." Her mention of advisors unintentionally hinted at her royal status. Without realizing it, she went on as usual and left a payment that was probably more than necessary for the shopkeep to find if he returned.

"Where to now?" Peacock asked, her enthusiasm showing as she handed Likus and Sahara their gifts. "I'm not quite ready to head back to the kingdom and indulge in fruit platters all day. We should flaunt our new looks!" Her excitement was momentarily dampened as she hesitated and inquired, “Oh, unless you have to be somewhere, Likus. I don't want to keep you if you have other commitments. Do you have a job?” She asked, tilting her head curiously.

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Cassandra/Sorendár {SkyWing Shadows Headquarters}

Sandy stood and gave Smolder a triumphant glare, as if to say, "Of COURSE we did it!" This was the kind of behavior that made her unpopular with her SandWing leaders. She had been far too full of fire and sass for their liking. She looked at Sorendár, who was definitely waking, and thought for a minute.
"Well, we can't drag him, and it's too tight in here to fly. We defeated him once before... let's wake him. His snout is still bound so he can't bite or make a bunch of noise. Let's get him up and tell him that there's a pool where he can be healed. I doubt he'll try anything with a snapped wing and a broken rib." Sandy walked over to the rousing Prince and poked him. That didn't work. Neither did shoving him. So she came around to his front and with a tiny "Sorry, Sleeping Beauty", she poked his broken rib. Of course he woke up. Sandy backed away a foot or two while he flailed around for a minute.
Sorendár couldn't help but panic. His snout was tied shut and all the noise he could muster was a muffled "Mmmmph!". He hadn't told anyone where he was going, because he knew his father would be angry if he'd known that Sorendár fled the meeting. He tried to claw at the ropes but his broken rib caused him too much pain and he stopped. He lay there, his golden eyes wide with fear and glazed with pain. He didn't know what they were going to do with him. There was nobody around except Gem that he knew, and he obviously couldn't trust her. He also knew fighting was useless with his broken rib and wing. So he obeyed when Sandy ordered him to stand up and follow her and - what did she call Gem? - Pyra. He walked quietly behind them, limping to keep his rib from becoming too irritated. He was jumpy, too. Never in his life had he been this terrified. He was alone, he was a captive, and he didn't know what his captors were planning for him...


Likus/Sahara {IceWing Market}

Sahara put on her bracelet and pranced in a circle, feeling for the first time in her life quite beautiful. It wasn't that she thought she wasn't pretty. She just didn't regard herself as beautiful on most occasions. When Peacock suggested they show off their new looks, she immediately agreed.
Likus, too, admired his anklets with a satisfied smile. But when she asked if he had somewhere to be, and if he had a job, he felt himself growing tense. He tried to relax but he couldn't stop his ears from pinning themselves back nervously.
"I... no, no, nothing right now. My job is kind of an as-needed thing. They don't need me right now, so I'm okay to hang out with you."
Just like Peacock, he wanted to simply be regarded as Likus, not 'Likus, the best spy in IceWing territory'. Plus, if he told her he was a spy, would Peacock trust him any more? He had no ill intent, but Peacock had no way of knowing that except by what he said. So he resolved to keep it quiet. He also realized that she must be a royal, for the way she mentioned advisors was telltale. He decided to leave the subject alone - obviously she didn't want to be known as royal for some reason or another. And since he had his own identity to keep secret, he decided not to pry in the hopes that she also would not pry.

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Pyra {SkyWing Shadows Cave}

Pyra cast a few glances back at Sorendár during their journey, noticing the fear in his eyes. A pang of guilt tugged at her for deceiving him, especially since he had apparently thought they were friends. She couldn't help but question why he would think that or even why she cared about how her prisoner felt. Unable to express her empathy in a straightforward manner, she simply muttered to Sandy, "Pathetic." Turning back toward Sorendár, she briskly added, "My name is Pyra, Gem was my mother’s name." She then returned her focus on leading the trio to the pool, as if that explanation sufficed.

Upon reaching the enchanted pool in the expansive cave, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. The pool's water had a captivating teal hue and exuded a pleasant warmth. Pyra flew up to four torches surrounding the cavern and breathed controlled flames into each, filling the chamber with a warm, flickering light. As the cave's lighting improved, the water seemed to possess an otherworldly glow. Still hovering near the wall sconces, Pyra retrieved three black throwing knives from her satchel, their polished blades gleaming in the ambient light. With a mischievous smirk, she threatened Sorendár, "Get in, or I'll practice my aim. You know, I've been meaning to work on my accuracy lately."
She then turned her attention to Sandy and said with a more inviting tone, "You can feel free to get in too. Even if you aren't injured, the pool works as a de-stressor, like a spa day." Pyra descended to the cave floor and settled on a flat rock near the entrance, ready in case Sorendár attempted anything foolish.

Peacock {IceWing Market}

“Alright, Mr. Ominous.” She teased, then moved on, deciding not to push the subject. She was honestly just happy that he didn’t have to leave. “I've only read about a few places outside of RainWing territory, but I'm sure the scrolls are outdated. Like the SkyWing arena – does that even still exist? Or the IceWing gardens with the grand sculptures. Perhaps we could go there?" Peacock drummed her talons on the chilly ground beneath her as she pondered, feeling utterly clueless about the world beyond the jungle.

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Cassandra/Sorendár {SkyWing Shadows Cave}

As Pyra glanced back at Sorendár, she noticed that over time he lost his fearful demeanor. His expression began to become more and more morose, and his head lowered. "Pyra or Gem, what difference does it make?" he muttered. "You'll always be just the SkyWing who backstabbed me."
When they got to the pool, and Pyra threatened him, he barely even flinched. He stared balefully at her with his golden eyes before managing to pull off a successful limping stalk into the pool. Once he was in, he gave an audible sigh of relief. The water pressure took the weight off his wounded body and let him relax. Although he grew incredibly sleepy in the peacefulness of the pool, he dared not close his eyes very long. He did not trust Pyra.

Sandy came over to Pyra and laid down. She curled her long tail around her and fiddled with the end while she looked at Pyra with her blue eyes. "I'm okay for now. I like Scorn. He's... intense. I'm intense. I like intenseness. It shows spirit. I'm glad you had something to help the Prince. The NightWings would've wrecked us had we let him go crippled."
She went silent for a minute, thinking about Scorn. She actually admired his powerful intensity. It's what she'd hoped for for so long - a leader who was truthful to the maximum and who led strongly. She would be very happy to stay here, with her friend Pyra.


Likus/Sahara {IceWing Market}

Sahara looked at Likus, narrowing her eyes in thought. She started thinking about his very full satchel, how the guards and vendors looked at him, and how he didn't want to talk about his job...

Likus was so pleased with this change of subject, his wings quivered. "Oh yes, the gardens are still here! I'll get us clearance to see them, don't worry."
In all honesty, just like everything else about Peacock, Likus found her innocence and cluelessness absolutely endearing. He nudged her with his wing in the direction of the gardens.

"Um, Peacock?" Sahara interrupted. "I... left something at home. I'm sure I can find my way back, but are you okay going with Likus alone for a little bit?"

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Pyra & Scorn {SkyWing Shadows Cave}

"I reckon the fact that he hasn't tried to send you home yet means that he doesn't mind you staying. Scorn is the type of dragon where you have to look at what he doesn't do to read him. Take the fact that he hasn't fired me. Means I did a good job." Pyra noted with a smile that conveyed her genuine happiness. "I think you should stay here, with the SkyWing Shadows. We all live in the cave, and I promise it's more spacious than it looks. But you could always commute if that’s what you would prefer!”

About half an hour into Sorendár’s healing, Scorn entered the grand cave. Initially ignoring the SandWing and Pyra, he went straight to Sorendár. "Enjoying yourself, Your Majesty?" He sneered as he looked down at the prince. "I can't believe you were dumb enough to get captured by Pyra of all dragons. She wasn't even briefed to find you! I had my most experienced spies after you, but I guess that was unnecessary.” He then lowered himself to look into Sorendár’s eyes. “It seems NightWings aren’t as smart as they try to look."

Scorn then swiftly stood and turned around, letting his tail splash some of the water as he addressed Pyra and the SandWing. "Hey, you. Plan-maker." he said, nodding to Cassandra, still not knowing her name. "There are empty quarters next to Pyra's if you wish to stay." He slid an enchanted Ruby gemstone over to her, similar to the one Pyra kept. "You'll still need the fire of a SkyWing to get in the cave, but you can have your own crystal in case this bird-brain loses hers again.” Scorn shot a glare at Pyra. Frankly, he was only hard on her because he wanted her to succeed. It was tough love, and Pyra understood that for the most part. He would never admit it, but Pyra was like an irritating little sister to him.

He then looked back to Cassandra with his cold amethyst colored eyes. “Don't be a thorn in my side, or I'll personally drag you back to the SandWing assassins.” Chuckling dryly, he added. "I sent a messenger to the Queen. Both of you will be equally credited for the capture of Prince Sorendár."

Peacock {IceWing Market}

Peacock gazed at Sahara, a hint of concern in her eyes. "It's a long flight, but if you're certain... I suppose you'll know where to find me." She was worried about her friend's safety but tried to remain positive. Peacock gently brushed her wing against Sahara's and offered a warm smile. "See you soon."
Then, turning to Likus, she chirped, "So, the gardens?" Her enthusiasm showed in her expression, as she looked forward to spending more time with him.

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Cassandra/Sorendár {SkyWing Shadows Cave}

Sandy looked pleased. "I'm glad he wouldn't mind my staying. Those ridiculous SandWings would have me laying bricks as punishment, but I get to take credit for helping to capture Prince NightWing here!" She smiled at Pyra.

Sorendár was feeling much better, and stood his ground facing Scorn. He glared out from under his eyebrows with his golden eyes and refused to look away.
"I'm fine," he snapped, his tone sullen and his reply short. "Your SkyWing is a fantastic liar, Scorn. Besides, haven't you appreciated it when another dragon doesn't look at you like you're scum, despite the attitude you exude? That's how I felt, thank you. And I am smarter than you think, SkyWing." He stared hard at Scorn, his gaze as sharp as a blade, before diving back into the pool with a terrific splash as his tail slapped the water.

Sandy stood when Scorn addressed her. "I'm Cassandra. Call me Sandy," she said, practically insisting. "I'll do my best not to drive you up a wall. The SandWings always called me annoying, but you're no pokey old elder, so I'm sure I'll be much less obnoxious to you."
She caught the stone and smiled at it, a weird, intense gleam in her eyes. "I won't disappoint you, Scorn, sir."


Likus {IceWing Market/Garden}

As Sahara flew away, Likus watched, feeling a dull sense of dread. He wasn't sure why, but the way she'd been looking at him made him feel uncomfortable. It was like she suspected him. He shook himself vigorously, made sure Peacock's cloak was on correctly so she'd be warm, and told her the gardens were this way.

The IceWing gardens were beautiful. The statues glistened with frost, which gave them a surreal, dreamlike aura. Even the plants were frosty and they sparkled in the light. They only encountered one other dragon, and Likus didn't seem to enjoy the interaction. They had run into one of the gardeners checking on the plants.
"Oh, Sir Likus!" the gardener had exclaimed, smiling. But Likus had flinched horribly, like he'd been slapped.
"Yes, good day to you," Likus had mumbled, and continued walking with Peacock.
It was an odd interaction. Likus had hated it. All hope that she wouldn't assume he was someone important fled his mind and his heart. He just wanted to be himself, not Sir Likus the Spy. And he decidedly wanted to be just himself with Peacock, with whom he felt so comfortable and friendly. He wanted her to like him because he was Likus, not because he was Likus the famous spy. He sighed and involuntarily stepped a bit closer to Peacock.

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Pyra & Scorn {SkyWing Shadows Cave}

"Oh pipe down you royal blunder, if it wasn’t for me you’d still have a broken rib and wing.” Scorn harshly growled to Sorendár. “Pyra if you want to show Sandy her quarters i’ll send some dragons to guard the whiny NightWing.” He then walked out, muttering something about how dragons in the Moon Alliance would never appreciate animus magic.

Pyra pulled a face. “Yikes.” She snickered then strolled over to the water where Sorendár was moping. Laying by the edge, she submerged the wing she had dislocated just to be rid of the lingering discomfort. Pyra let out a contented sigh as the pool had instantly put her in a relaxed state. Lazily, she observed Sorendár. “I wonder what the Queen is going to do with you.” She mumbled. “For a dragon in the healing pool, you seem pretty tense... almost like you were kidnapped and your life was suddenly upended.” She chuckled as watched the prince through half lidded eyes.

“I don’t really get into the politics of the sun and moon thing, but what would you do with him, Sandy?” She asked in an easy tone.

Peacock {IceWing Gardens}

Peacock gasped and turned to Likus as soon as the gardener had left. "Likus! You should've told me you were a prince!" She laughed, piecing it together since why else would he be addressed with such a title? Unless it was in terms of scales, Peacock wasn't the brightest RainWing in the jungle.

"We just have so much in common!" She beamed at him, feeling a weight off her shoulders since she was honestly terrible at keeping secrets. "I get why you didn't tell me though, dragons tend to have preexisting impressions about royals." Peacock nodded understandingly, then walked in a small circle looking at her surroundings in awe. "Imagine ruling a land as stunning as this… except, there is one downside. You don't have very many vegetarian options here!" She smiled, brushing up against him playfully. Speaking of food, she was beginning to feel quite peckish, but she decided not to bother him with it at the moment. Instead, Peacock wanted to hear about his life as the prince of the IceWings.

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Cassandra/Sorendár {SkyWing Shadows Cave}

Sorendár had lifted his head above the water in time to hear Scorn's last remark to him. Although he hissed angrily, Pyra could see the prince's feelings had been wounded. What Scorn had said touched something painful in Sorendár's heart and hurt him greatly... he had often felt like a failure, and as he tried to learn how to correctly communicate with foreign representatives, hold a council meeting, and overall behave like an important, well-bred royal, he felt more and more like he was completely inadequate. He was slow to learn these things, and because he was so sullen-faced, he was often disliked at first sight. He glared balefully at Pyra for her sarcasm, but it still couldn't hide the hurt in his eyes. He crept into a dark corner and slid into the darkness until all Pyra could see of him was his golden eyes.
Sandy pondered the question. "I think I would hold him, and ask for ransom. With that money, I could raise up my tribe and make them stronger, with more allies and more armor than ever! Unfortunately, he's so sullen and silent, he's probably not worth much. I guess he'd make a good trophy, if nothing else."


Likus {IceWing Gardens}

Likus balked. Now he knew he had to tell her. He wasn't the prince - he wasn't that important at all! He was only a spy, even if he WAS famous.
"I... I... Oh..." He just couldn't get a word in with her excited chattering. Once she'd mentioned food, he jumped at his chance to speak before he completely lost his nerve. "I... uh, Peacock? I gotta talk to you about something." He fished some fresh lettuce he'd collected and brought back out of his satchel and handed it to Peacock for her to much on.
"Look, Peacock, I... I'm not the prince. I'm not that important. I... I'm an IceWing spy. Oh, but please don't be afraid of me! I'm off duty and I've always wanted a fun friend like you. I didn't want to tell you at first, you see, because I was worried you would dislike me or be scared of me, and you were such a friendly, personable dragon that I didn't want you to know who I really was. I guess the truth came out anyways... I just wanted you to like me for being, well, me. Haven't you ever felt that way...?"
Poor Likus was getting more and more desperate-sounding, like he dreaded the idea of Peacock disliking him.

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Pyra {SkyWing Shadows Cave}

Pyra frowned, feeling somewhat out of her comfort zone. She wasn't used to dealing with such sensitive dragons and wasn't sure how to offer comfort, or if she even should. Shaking the water droplets from her wing as she removed it from the pool, she hesitated and then awkwardly attempted to reassure the prince. "Er… Sorendár. Scorn treats everyone that way, so get thicker scales and don't cry about it." She inhaled sharply, realizing her words came off harsher than intended, at least she tried.

Returning to Sandy, she stretched her wings to their full length and then neatly folded them back, appreciating that she was no longer sore. "Do you want to stay and keep an eye on the prince, or would you prefer I show you around the caves? It's your choice, but I have to warn you that my colleagues would be quite eager to take credit for Sorendár's capture if we left." She rolled her eyes in annoyance. "Let's just say the dragons here aren't always the most pleasant to deal with. They’re real stuck up chicken heads if you ask me.” Pyra scoffed.

Peacock {IceWing Gardens}

Peacock paused, her gaze thoughtful as she absorbed the revelation. "Oh, I see." She began, tightly tucking in her wings as she contemplated the situation. "I suppose I can't be cross with you for not revealing your true identity right away, especially considering that I didn't immediately disclose my own royal status." She gave Likus a small, reassuring smile.

"But, you must understand why I'd be cautious," She continued, slightly stepping away from him. "What if your intention was to get close to me to influence the RainWings on behalf of the IceWings?" She frowned for a moment, her thoughts delving into unwanted questions about the nature of his work as a spy, wondering if he’s ever had to kill a dragon.

Pushing those thoughts away, she went on. "However, the fact that you eventually shared the truth does earn you some credit. You've been incredibly kind to me." Peacock took a bite of lettuce and eventually returned to her bright, cheerful self. "So, I trust you, Likus." She then looked around, a hint of concern in her eyes. "I wonder if Sahara caught on, and if that's why she left..."

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Cassandra/Sorendár {SkyWing Shadows Cave}

Sandy looked at Pyra, her expression surprised.
Sorendár, too, looked surprised. He opened his mouth to snap a short reply, but stopped. He looked her over, noticing her body language and what she was really trying to say. He thought about it, and though he really wanted to bite her head off with a snappy retort, he collected himself and muttered, "Okay, thanks."
He'd never received the sympathy of another dragon like that, because he wasn't allowed to portray his problems to the public - and his parents were always busy. He didn't quite know what to do with himself, and he didn't know how he felt about it coming from Pyra. She confused him greatly - one minute she was sassy and annoying and lying, and another minute she was trying to reassure him. It was a little while before Sorendár realized he was staring at Pyra; not just staring, he was glaring - his eyebrows were furrowed with thought. He whipped around and dove back into the pool with another terrific splash.

Sandy curled her tail around the other side of her body, more tightly this time. She looked agitated as she said, "I'd make sure those dragons learned a lesson if they tried to steal a victory from me." Then she breathed and continued, "But we can stay. Sorendár's almost finished in there and then he can tag along." She chuckled. "I can't wait to see my room. Where will the prince be kept?"


Likus {IceWing Gardens}/Sahara {RainWing Palace}

Likus turned his face away when she mentioned she ought to be cautious. He wished with all his might he could've continued to hide his spy rank, but he couldn't lie about being the prince. If someone had found out, and they certainly would've found out, he would have been in some serious trouble.
He refused to look Peacock in the eyes and his ears laid back against his head as if he was embarrassed.
"Look, I'm sorry about not telling you..." he murmured, sounding thoroughly ashamed of himself. "I just didn't want you to be scared of me, like everyone else who's not an IceWing is. Please believe me, I wouldn't try to influence your people. Besides," he gave a wry chuckle, "if I was on duty, we wouldn't be here... I would be staked out somewhere in RainWing territory, making sure it was the right time to ask for your allegiance and figuring out what would be best to gift you, if you did join us, based on what your needs are. I'm not the nefarious one - it's the advisors and political officers you wanna watch out for. They're the ones that'll try to sway you. Speaking of political officers, I just heard an interesting story from one of them..."
Likus told her about how Viridian had come in contact with the NightWing Prince, and how the prince was... not what Viridian would've expected.
"Apparently he's really sullen-faced, and generally in a bad mood." Likus chuckled. "Wouldn't wanna meet him - I don't like a dragon who is a stick-in-the-mud. They dampen my playful mood, and then I get cranky. I don't like being cranky," he remarked, half speaking to himself. He looked at Peacock again, and a glimmer of hope came into his face.
"My lady," he said formally, with a bit of a teasing twinkle in his eyes, "I must earn your trust again. What may I do, that I may reenter your favor?"
He smiled at Peacock, internally hoping that she would come up with something.

Sahara landed, breathless, in the castle. She clamored for a guard, at least just one, because she was concerned about the princess. She explained to the nearest guard that there was an IceWing both she and Peacock had taken a liking to, but she'd realized from the way he was spoken to by a shopkeeper that he was someone important. She also assumed he wasn't royal because he carried himself more like an agent of the royal family.
"What do I DO?" Sahara wailed, fearing for Peacock.

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Pyra & Scorn {SkyWing Shadows Cave}

Pyra noticed Sandy and Sorendár’s reaction to her attempt at kindness and she wore a grimace on her face. “Don’t look at me like that! I’m just not used to such pathetic slugs.” She growled in defense.
“Get up, Sorendár. Enough with the wallowing." She barked at the NightWing prince. "You'll have to follow Sandy and I around since I can't trust anyone to guard you."

Pyra then tapped her talons on the ground in a complex rhythmic pattern and whispered Scorn's name at the end. She turned to Sandy and explained. "Scorn recently enchanted the cave floor to act as a sort of communication system. He got tired of dragons yelling across the echoing caverns just to find each other. Now, if you drum your talons in the same sequence I just did and say the name of the dragon you want to notify, their crystal will light up." She pointed at the gem Scorn had given Sandy and repeated the process, illuminating her friend’s gemstone. "See, it works for you too now that you have your own gem."

Flicking her tail towards Sorendár, she went on. “Anyway, I just need Scorn to enchant a bonding bracelet for the prince. We've moved beyond the use of chains for prisoners. Instead, we provide them with animus-touched bracelets. These bracelets keep them from straying more than 8 wingspans away from their bonded dragon, and they also prevent any physical contact between the prisoner and their guard. So, you and I will get bracelets too, though I highly doubt the prince will pose a threat with or without them."

Scorn soon entered the cave and gave Pyra a flat look. “You called?” He said with a hint of annoyance in his tone. Pyra nodded and explained that she needed the bracelets for herself, Sandy, and Sorendár. “You’re lucky I have some left over.” He grumbled and fished in his bag of trinkets, digging out three obsidian bracelets. Tossing two of them to Pyra, he instructed, “Take one for yourself and put the other on the prisoner.”
Scorn then approached Sandy and towered over her, getting into her personal space. In silence, he carefully slipped the enchanted bracelet onto her, only making brief eye contact when he was done. He walked away without a word and approached the pool, glaring at Pyra. “Well do I have to fish him out for you? I said put the bracelet on the Prince, I doubt he’s capable of doing it himself.” He scoffed with an exaggerated eye roll.

Peacock & Viridian {IceWing Gardens}

Peacock continued their playful banter with a smirk. "Oh, I am well aware of the complexities, good sir. Princesses are known for their discerning hearts and high expectations." She took a moment to think, her scales shimmering with amusement. "But perhaps there is a way to make amends. You see, actions often speak louder than words-“

Before she could elaborate, an out-of-breath SeaWing suddenly landed in front of Likus, a look of urgency in his eyes. It was Viridian, who turned to Peacock, quite perplexed by her presence. He had met her as a dragonet the few times he went on diplomatic missions in the RainWing kingdom, but he was certain she would not remember him.
"Greetings Your Highness… I must admit it's a bit strange to see you here in the Ice Kingdom." He acknowledged with a respectful bow before refocusing on Likus. "I am Viridian, an esteemed member on the Board of Diplomats for the Moon Allegiance. Urgent matters require your immediate attention."
He glanced back at Peacock, a hint of uncertainty in his expression. "Princess, there's simply not enough time to arrange an escort for your safe return to the RainWing kingdom. The last thing we need is another missing royal. You will accompany Likus and I as we address the NightWing Prince's disappearance."

Viridian leaned in closer to Likus and spoke in a hushed voice so that only he would be able to hear. “Perhaps if you IceWings were to act sooner as I had suggested, the Prince would still be with us. However it seems gallivanting with pretty princesses is more your speed, hm?” His voice was laced with frustration, but he had promptly recollected himself as he stood straight with his head held high.

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Sorendár/Sandy {SkyWing Shadows Cave}

Sorendár simply stuck his head out of the water and hissed, "I'm better now - I'm not afraid of a little dragon like you."
Sandy laughed. "You should be more afraid of her than you think you should be. She's vicious."
Sorendár balked at the idea of wearing a shackle like that. He slunk back down under the water and chose a shadowed corner where his dark scales could hide him. He heard Scorn's remarks, and decided he wouldn't go down this time without a real fight. This time, he was ready. He waited silently, underwater, in his dark corner, waiting for one of them to come after him. He just wanted out - he wanted to get away from Pyra, who confused and aggravated him, and from Scorn, whom Sorendár had already come to despise with all his being.

Sandy noticed she couldn't see the Prince. She made no suggestion that she knew - she wanted to see how Pyra, or better yet, Scorn, handled this situation. She liked to determine the strength of others - it told her how strong their leadership or loyalty would be. Generally. She sat back, curled her tail neatly around her talons, and admired the enchanted bracelet. She hadn't cared that Scorn had gotten up in her personal space. She knew she couldn't let Scorn intimidate her or make her back down. She ignored those kinds of interactions, and instead grinned at Pyra.


Likus {IceWing Gardens}

Likus smiled softly, a warm light in his eyes. He was enjoying this banter. But he shied back when Viridian landed; he moved backwards in such a way that he was rather between Viridian and Peacock. He dipped his head, acknowledging Viridian and his status.
"Honored to meet you, I'm sure," Likus said dryly.
He leaned close when Viridian spoke in quiet tones, but almost immediately his spines began to stand up as he bristled in anger. He drew himself up and his pale blue eyes grew as sharp and cold as a shard of ice. "I'll have you know," he snarled, "that I am currently off-duty. I encountered this princess while traveling for my own amusement, and when I saw she had only innocent intentions, I swore to myself that I would keep her safe and accompany her around IceWing territory." He spoke rashly in his anger; he had never intended Peacock to know this. "I would've even offered to escort her back home, but you butted in." Likus' tail thrashed in fury, but he managed to dial his rage back. He changed his voice to a flat, professional interrogation tone.
"So, Sorendár is missing? Does anyone know what happened? Who saw Sorendár last?"
Then he thought of Peacock standing behind him, and how she must be feeling. A royal missing? Would she worry that whoever did it would target other royals - like her? He beckoned her with his wing ever so slightly, letting her know that she could come closer if she wanted.

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Pyra & Scorn {SkyWing Shadows Cave}

Pyra and Scorn exchanged knowing glances as they realized that Sorendár was not complying. Pyra sighed and muttered to Scorn, "Well, seems like he wants to play it the hard way." Scorn responded dryly, “Alright.” Then expelled a burst of intense flames in Sorendár's general direction, revealing his hiding place in the shadowed corner.

Taking advantage of Scorn’s momentary distraction, Pyra displayed her nimble agility. With a swift leap, she soared over to the cave wall while holding onto the bracelet. She noticed Sorendár's head still slightly above the water, and in a swift, determined move, she dove straight onto him. Using her position of higher ground, she pushed both Sorendár and herself underwater.

The ensuing conflict was chaotic, filled with splashing and confusion. Scorn's continuous flames heated the water uncomfortably as they struggled. Pyra fought with strength despite her small size, she was determined to get the restraint on Sorendár. She gripped his forearm, perhaps harder than necessary as she felt her claws dig into his flesh, while she wrestled to place the obsidian bracelet on him.

Scorn closely observed the situation from the water's edge, prepared to intervene if needed, but he trusted in Pyra's ability to handle the prince by herself...

Peacock & Viridian {IceWing Gardens}

Peacock fidgeted uncomfortably when Viridian mentioned the missing prince. Instinctively, she drew closer to Likus, her gaze shifting over her shoulder as she began worry about her own safety. "Yes, it seems like a wise decision. I'll travel with you for safety." She said, her tail swishing nervously behind her as she thought about Sahara and whether she would make it back to the jungle unharmed since she had been traveling alone…

Viridian acknowledged Peacock's quick compliance with a nod, relieved that she didn't put up resistance. Although his intention wasn't to scare her, he found her willingness to cooperate reassuring.
However, he couldn't hide the annoyance that crept into his expression when he glanced at Likus. "My apologies for ‘butting in’ as you put it. Would you have preferred that I kept quiet about the prince's disappearance?"

Generally, Viridian was known for his pleasant and polite demeanor, but the news of Sorendár's absence greatly unsettled him. He worried about being the last dragon to have seen the prince and how word could easily spread among the alliance. He envisioned damaging rumors, suggesting that the famous diplomat had played a role in Sorendár's absence, which could jeopardize the relationship between NightWings and SeaWings. His reputation and the alliance were at stake, and this drove his urgency to find the prince and uncover the truth.

Viridian swiftly launched himself into the air and addressed the young dragons as he hovered from above. "We shouldn't waste any more time." He urged, then responded to Likus. "It's believed that I, along with the other tribe representatives at the Moon Alliance meeting, were the last to see the prince before he left in a fit of anger. That's the extent of our knowledge."

Peacock observed Viridian as he waited for her and Likus to join him in flight. She glanced towards Likus, as if seeking his confirmation to proceed.
Her childhood memories flickered briefly, recalling her parents discussing Viridian after his political visits. However, her family was never particularly fond of him, likely due to his brash and straightforward manner. His demeanor seemed ill-suited to the laid-back nature of RainWings, and Peacock found herself in agreement with her parents' judgement based off first impressions.

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