Final

“It’s okay - it was an accident. And even if you had done it on purpose that wouldn’t have made me think of you differently.” I pulled her away as she wiped her eyes languidly.
“You’re strong, Yona. A beautiful and young girl. Don’t let the past scar up your future, because your future is bright.” I placed a hand on her cheek before wincing from the irritation of my world. Yona flustered slightly, trying to get me to lay back down just as Yoon came into the tent, the material flapping with his rushed movement. His face showed one of slight annoyance, most likely from any conversation he had with the dragons outside, but he placed a cold rag with lavender on it onto my head with a welcoming smile. The strong aroma of lavender covered my strong senses; making it easier and more comfortable for me to sleep

I woke up in a dark room, though maybe that was an understatement. All I could see was black.  There was no clear object of observance for me to identify. My bright hands and form was the only thing illuminated in the place until I heard a slight crackle of electricity  from behind me. The sharp, familiar sound echoed in my head as I turned around, my eye widened for a moment. It was the lightning dragon from the legends; the one whom I bare the blood of. As I stood up I  poorly attempted not to stumble backwards as I observed the huge beast.

His body was long, much like the other dragons. It truly did resemble a flying serpent, but there was some changes and it had an aura of intelligence and grace around it. His whiskers were sparking with blue electricity, racing from one strand to the other in a wild race. His scales were a deep purple, almost to the point of looking black if not for the tips being illuminated by a lighter purple. His chest plates, however, were gray- much like the fuzz around his nostrils forming a mustache. The last of his outstanding features were his piercing, electric blue eyes, concealing sparks of purple-like streaks that made his eyes unique to his own. The sheer beauty of the beast took me aback, he was twice my size on top of everything too. The Lightning dragon’s feet could probably fit over my entire head, I noticed, as he took one step forward, eyes narrowing. He locked eyes with my own and opened his mouth to speak.

“You’re truly a pathetic human.” His voice rumbled unnaturally deep and his lips didn’t move, just simply expelled the words from his agape mouth. I blinked, confused.
“My blood was not made to be wasted on a human who cannot make their own decisions carefully.” He snaked forward in a flash, circling around me to the point where the end of his fluffy, grey tail touched his snout. I was enclosed in the large circle his body made, but I simply glared at his unconcerned, beautiful eyes.

“What are you talking about?” I asked, clearly confused as I crossed my arms over my chest.

“The reason why you cannot control my blood is because you are always so unsure about yourself. You lack the capacity to be…. authoritative.” I faced the creature carefully. Getting more and more irritated as he continued on.
“Your mind is weak.” He closed his eyes on me as if I was a lost cause and there was no more to be said to one such as I. Anger flared inside me,

“Well, what do you want me to do? I can’t just be like my father. It’s hard enough as it is.” I waved my arms as the dragon’s eyes opened to a slight narrowed  expression for a moment. He gracefully slithered forward, breaking the circle. As he moved along, his fluffy tail snaked underneath my chin, making my head snap upwards from the force of the flick.

“Be more decisive, stop wasting my blood and use it. You ARE me…. your veins are constricting with electricity. It will hurt your enemies and heal your friends. - pathetic human.” I tripped backwards, his form disappeared further into the dark void just before things went black all around myself too.

I sat up suddenly in the middle of the night. The rag on top of my head falling off with the sudden jerk of my body. I ran my fingers through my hair as I tried to calm down my erratic breathing as I peered at my surroundings. Yona was fast asleep on my side not disturbed at my motion in the least; she probably stayed up to make sure I was okay. My mouth was extremely dry, but my mind felt clear; my fever had broken. I got up, careful not to wake Yona as I wandered out of the tent in search of water. My nose found it’s way to a large pond near the camp, only a few feet away perhaps. I took great sips of the slightly illuminated water from my palms, splashing it against my face as well. I let a sigh escape my lips.

“Feeling better miss?” My nerves prickled as I turned around to see Zeno sitting in a tree. His scent filling my nose as I then calmed down, relaxing myself.

“Much better - thanks to Yoon.” I responded, listening to the quiet chirps of the crickets in the grass as I stayed balanced on my haunches beside the water. The fuzzy looking dragon jumped down from the tree, a smile plastered on his face as he came to my side. I looked at his reflection in the water.

“You’re still troubled though.” He took a stick and poked my reflection with it; the ripples moving across the pond. I smiled a little, sitting back down on the grass as Zeno joined me.

“No… not as much, I guess.” I hugged my knees towards my chest.

“You’re very different but almost the same as the other dragons.” Zeno seemed to inquire as I finally looked up at him. He kept his smile looking across the water.
“Shin-Ah’s tribe despised him, and Jae-ha was shackled for the longest time. They’re both very different, but we’re all gathered here for different reasons.” I hummed slightly in thought as I leaning back, watching the stars.

“I came out of my own curiosity, but I discovered something very… intimate I guess. Your scent is different from the rest Zeno, why is that?” My eyes flashed lavender for a moment as Zeno folded his own hands together, leaning his head onto them as his eyes softened at the water.

“Zeno is the original yellow dragon - no matter what happens to this body it will remain as a shield for Yona.” I was a bit impressed - though immortality seemed like it would get a little boring and sad at times. I peered at his almost crestfallen shadow from my sprawled spot on the grass before pulling myself up with a huff. He looked at me for a moment as I turned my seated form more towards him, placing a delicate hand on his cheek. I don’t know what compelled me to do so, but I felt like he’s gone through something terrible and need something-anything. So I found my hand moving more into his hair- almost in a petting manner. He seemed a bit confused, staring at me but I quickly realized my audacious actions, face going rubicund as I recoiled.

“Sorry.” I muttered as I turned away. I could hear Zeno laugh a bit until it was suddenly cut short and a loud splash erupted from the side. I rose in surprise, a little bit of water splashing on my legs, as I peer to the pound to see Zeno’s splashing form. Turning around, I saw Jae-Ha standing there. His arms were crossed and his left leg still raised from when he kicked Zeno into the pond.

“Flirting this early in the morning is unhealthy, Zeno.” The green dragon teased as Zeno laughed, standing up with his heavy, wet clothes that looked quite comical now.
“I take it you’re feeling better, Miss Rivers.” Jae-Ha smirked as I tried to hide my laugh from seeing Zeno soaked in the water. I pulled my hand away from my mouth to shoot him a smile,

“Fit as a fiddle I’d say, we should have no problem getting to the Water Tribe lands.” For now I would let my emotions rest. Of course I was worried but if I did any more of that I could get myself into some trouble. Zeno crawled out of the water, shaking his hair in an attempt to free it from the water; letting the pond water spray towards both Jae-Ha and I. We yelled in surprise, but as Zeno looked up with a wide, toothy smile we all couldn’t help but laugh. It was a true sight to see Jae-Ha smile at me, it warmed my heart as we all turned back towards the camp.
The others seemed to be stirring - even if it was rather early in the morning we could start moving to make up for lost time. Within the hour we had packed up our things and continued to walk.
I was lost in my own thoughts, but no one seemed to be bothered seeing as I seemed to be in a better mood than before. My hand slid over Matthias’ hilt as I stared at the ground. We were almost entering the Water Tribe, the front of the slave trade. It should be easy enough, in my mind at least, but I just mainly thought about wanting to cut them all down for what they’re doing. Now that the Crystal Kingdom was more involved it wasn’t just Yona’s problem, but mine as well.

Once we arrived in the lands, there was already water falling harshly to the muddied ground. There was a small, rickety, wooden shelter at the edge of the dirt road that we all rushed to. Yona and I were placed in the middle of the shelter, our hair clumped and clothes soaked despite only being in the downpour for a few moments. Shin-Ah was curled in his fur in the corner with Zeno plastered next to him, Kija was bent in the other side of the small shack with Yoon, but there wasn't much room left for Hak and Jae-Ha so they mostly hung out in the rain.
Zeno gave a pout; his lips sticking out and eyes scrunched as he tried to crawl into the fur with Shin-Ah,
“I just got dry too…” He mumbled as we listened to the rhythmic sound of the rain hitting the roof. I gave a smirk at him, but Yona caught my eye before she began to speak.
“It shouldn’t be much longer, Zeno. The town should be up ahead and hopefully we can find Lili somewhere in it.” Her eyes were so certain as she looked out into the blur of the scenery, drops of water falling from the ends of her beautiful hair. Just looking at her this close and with those eyes made me remember the scene in the tent and I could feel my cheeks heat up. I averted my eyes and coughed slightly in embarrassment, though no one knew what was in my mind, but I felt the need to stop my flushing somehow.
“You’re not getting sick again are you?” The princess turned accusing eyes onto me the best she could in the tight cluster we were all in. I immediately stopped myself from looking at her; looking down, which made her tone even more critical as she dragged out my name.
“Shoe.” I waved my hand at her dismissively,
“No, I promise. I don’t get rebound sick.” I felt the heat drain from me enough to where I felt comfortable to look at her again, giving confident eyes that seemed to satisfy her and Yoon, who had perked up at the mention of sickness.  

           It looked like we'd be here until the rain gave out and by the looks of it it could be awhile. I sighed as I drew a tad closer to Yona as I made myself more comfortable for the long stay in the small space,
Yona, one day I'll have to Introduce you to my daughter.” She relaxed into my side as she smiled,

“Gladly. I’d love to meet her.” Yona tilted her head to the side when I heard something rustling. I peered over to Yoon, who was going through his bag from his spot on the floor. Everyone naturally looked to him and his actions since there was nothing else to really do at the moment. The young boy gave a satisfied huff as he yanked a bag of dried meats and wrapped cheese from the bottom of his satchel.

“I can't exactly cook in here, but this should do for now.” Yoo. Passed the bundles around, each person grabbing two long jerky slices and a square of cheese My mouth instantly watered, though it wasn't the best of meals I was quickly scarfing it down with gratitude.

Something about the situation felt oddly calm, what with the droning noise of the rain, the bodies and their warmth all next to each other.  It just felt almost peaceful, however, usually when things calm down it was in preparation of another storm to come. I felt a sense of anxiety suddenly sweep over me at this, concealing the peaceful feeling completely. Anything could go wrong and fairly quickly at that, but as long as Yona was safe everything would be okay. I felt movement around me as I came back from my musings, noticing the rainfall had subsided greatly while we ate. We all quickly headed the rest of the way to town before the rain had a chance to catch us off guard again.
The Water Tribe lands were very scenic and beautiful; greenery and budding flowers sparkled with the remnants of the rain shower. Despite the picturesque scenery there was an odd atmosphere hanging in the cloudy sky and on the few people in the front of the town. Everyone was keeping their sights out to any of the people we pass, seeing if it’s their friend Lili, but since I didn’t know what she looked like I felt kind of useless. I stuck near Shin-Ah at the front as he peered across the whole town with his yellow eyes.
“Found her.” The blue dragon spoke gently as he pointed off towards a few buildings not too far away from our current position. Yona jumped at his words in a fit of pure excitement, her eyes gleaming as she moved past everyone and to the direction Lili was. As I saw her small back move away from me I could feel my heart pound against my chest and my throat began to grow tight as I, and everyone else, quickly tried to catch up to her. I knew this feeling growing furiously inside me with every step and it always came out to be something bad in some form of the way. I stayed near Shin-Ah for the same reason I would stay near anyone I trusted; they can stop me if anything went wrong and this feeling in my chest said things just might.
A young black haired girl, well dressed, was facing Yona excitedly. A shorter haired woman with stoic features gazed at Yona and whom I presume is Lili with a small smile. Yona greeted them both great fervor then turned to another person hidden within the shadow of the building and as he stepped out I felt my blood run cold.
The man was about Jae-Ha’s height with short, bright blonde hair and a smirky grin plastered on his features. He was covered in a thick, silver armour that barely showed any of his light skin other than his face. A gauntlet covered hand laid on the sword that hung at his hip as he bowed slightly at Yona in greeting. Anger boiled inside me and it felt like time slowed as I grit my teeth, energy swirling around me slightly. I reached for Mattias out of pure instinct, but my white knuckled hand was stalled from pulling the weapon free by a gentle touch. I glared unconsciously towards Shin-Ah as he spoke my name in a cautioning but gently questioning tone. I felt my hand shake under his. The others had already gone to greet the women with familiar smiles and chat, but I stayed a distance away as I gathered my swirling mind. I tried to contain myself, slipping my hand off of the hilt of my sword as I gave a nod to Shin-Ah. He looked at me blankly through his mask as I approached the others.
Yona brightened when she noticed me coming to a stop at the edge of the group, “Shoe, this is Lili and Ayura.” They both slightly bowed in greeting, Lili giving me a warm smile as I gave her my best attempt at one. “It’s a pleasure. Yona has told me about your adventures together...” My eyes wandered to the blonde man as I spoke, my voice leaving me as I saw his sharp eyes focused on my every move. Yona tilted her head as she looked between us, about to speak when the man’s booming voice let out a laugh. Everyone looked at us and I knew I must look pale as the laughter died down.
“Didn’t know you were running around the princess, Your Highness.” The man practically purred as he looked at me from down his nose before putting a hand on his chest and giving a bow. It was a common gesture towards the royal family in the Crystal Kingdom, but his movements were purely derived from mock respect.
I raised my head higher, my eyes locked on to his bent form as I spoke clearly,

“I didn’t know you were interfering with foreign affairs, General Yukon.” My nonchalant tone could give the impression of simply not wanting to speak with someone from my kingdom, especially not formally as a Queen. I prayed it came off that way to the others, but I refused to glance at my companions if it meant removing my eyes from Yukon.

After a moment longer the man raised his head and met my eyes fully as he explained,

“I've been helping Lady Lili with the slave traders.” He gave a glance to the long, black haired girl who nodded politely in response at his words as he continued, “We're trying to find their hideout since its been spelling huge trouble for her father Joon-Gi.

--------------------

“I was here helping Lady Lili with the slave traders - we’re trying to find their hideout. It’s spelling huge trouble for Joon-Gi. Seeing at the Crystal kingdom seems to be involved I got permission from the light dragon to come here.” If I had any mind in this, I probably knew he was the one behind it. Given his past - given the fact he nearly sold me off as a slave and tried to sell my blood on the market. I was in no way trusting of a man who was severely close to my father. For now, I had to put differences aside. I turned away, telling Lili it was nice to meet her before coming close to Yona.

“Keep an eye on Yukon, Yona - he’s not a man to be trusted.” I whispered as I walked far behind them, to cool my head. Yoon stopped me for a moment pulling on my arm as he looked worried. “I’m fine, I just didn’t expect him to be here.” I tried to reassure him even if my voice was laced with malice. The kind of energy that made anyone back off, even if Yoon still looked worried. I waited for the group to finish talking, Yona made Jae-ha go with Yukon and the others. As they walked up to me, I let out a sigh.

“They’re going to keep looking on the east side of this town so we have the other half.” Yona said as she looked straight at me. “Are you sure you’re okay Shoe.” I simply shook my head. I crossed my arms - I wasn’t going to lie.

“Me and general Yukon have a bit of a past…. he worked with my father the previous king of crystal rather closely. He once was a slave trader - I say once lightly.” I narrowed my eyes as Yona placed a hand over her chin in thought.

“I’m glad I sent Jae-ha with them then, it’s a good thing you didn’t cause a scene in the middle of town.” I gave a rather relieved sigh as I tried to relax my muscles. It was all thanks to Shin-ah really. If he hadn’t been close to me - I don’t think I would have been able to stop myself from cutting Yukon straight in front of everyone.

“Well now what’s the plan, you don’t really intend to get this involved Yona. You could be in danger.” Yoon objected it seemed like Kija agree’d. I tapped a finger against my arm watching Hak who seemed relatively calm about this. Shin-ah stayed silent as Zeno stood next to me.

“We’ll be fine with Shoe and Zeno. Thunder beast too!” he exclaimed. Yoon didn’t seemed very convinced.

“As long as we’re all with the princess at all times, and Jae-ha can signal Shin-ah if anything happens. For now, let’s look for more of this slave trading activity.” I stated dropping a hand to my side. Yona nodded her head as I looked again at Hak, he was looking directly at me but again without a word. Seemed we didn’t need words to understand he knew how I felt and it meant that Yukon was bad news. More likely, he was the one behind all of this. With a collective sigh from the group we went to the east side of the town. To begin to look for clue’s.

Yukon - Light tribe general

Yukon is the current light tribe general as well as Karrina(Shoe’s daughter)’s father. He was close with the previous king and tends to sway more towards the black market(With one attempt to sell off the princess Shoe to a black market) then what he should stand for.

Between the situation now and earlier, I didn’t know what was worse. Knowing that Yukon was with one of Yona’s friends - or knowing that I was powerless to do much right now. Looking around the town, it was no surprise to me that we ended up with nothing. Having to find an inn to sleep in for the night. It seemed this village was safe enough for when it came to having our faces shown. Having settled ourselves I stayed awake, leaning against the door frame facing the back of the inn where the pond sat.

I was unsettled, greatly so - and it seemed like Yona had picked off of that energy as I found her sitting next to me. Tired obviously but everyone else was fast asleep as it was. I gave a soft sigh as Yona leaned against me.

“This same thing happened with Suu-won once… and I couldn’t do anything about it since he was pretending to be lili’s bodyguard.” I didn’t know whether to be pissed or otherwise. As I looked at Yona for a moment and looked out and sighed.

“He’s probably the head of all this - at one point…. I did love Yukon.” I admitted, closing my eyes. “He’s my daughter’s father. A long time ago he was going to marry me to become king - despite his older age of course. He quickly betrayed that love when he kidnapped me. Some of these scars are from him.” I traced a line on my clothing from the scars on my body. “Lightning dragon blood sold high on the market, he wasn’t even aware that I was pregnant with Karrina. Of course it was Tori who came to my rescue. My father the king - pardoned Yukon.” Telling someone the story was not quite as odd as I thought it would be. Then again it could have been Yona’s fault. I felt comfortable around her, despite hating most people getting close. Seemed like my heart had made room for more friends. I looked back to Yona since she had fallen silent. Watching her eyes she seemed to be thinking deeply.

“You’re the queen of his kingdom right - we’ll catch him. We will strike him down. I highly doubt even Suu-won would let a criminal like him run around with free will here.” Yona looked at me, I smiled laughing a bit. Taking a hand I placed it on her head and patted it. She really did have the makings of a good leader - I wished she would just notice that already.

The night went sleepless, I spent most of it staring out the window at the rain. Rest was needed but I just couldn’t take it. I hugged my knees close to my chest, this sort of solemn feeling was for a reason. I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to face up to Yukon. If anything, if Lady Lili got hurt - the blame would be my own. I should have had complete control over a general, but he had me wrapped around his finger. I sighed, watching as the sun rose behind the clouds in the rain.

“Did you get any sleep last night?” Yoon asked as I turned to him. I smiled waving my hand.

“Yeah I did, just woke up early.” Of course it was a flat out lie, but I was quick to answer to cover it up. There was no use him worrying over something that could not easily be fixed.

Author's Note

I decided to upload the last part in one go so it's longer than the rest. Part of this is also, unedited. Anyway hope you guys enjoyed. I had planned to do more things with this story so if you have questions you can ask ^^

Reviews

[AliciaB]

I did enjoy it very much. There are a lot of interesting twists in this, and I loved the part about it being "too early in the morning" to flirt. It saddens me to finally be saying goodbye to Shoe and company. Good luck in all of your future works!