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Chapter 1: The First King of Dragos

Several hundred thousand years have passed since Michael, The Archangel, saved the Dragons from the asteroid. While the road, at first, was rough, the Dragons soon spread out to all four corners of Dragos. As the years went by, they experienced changes that let them to evolve, becoming more humanoid in shape.

Michael was well pleased with the progress these Dragons were showing, and soon discovered that Dragos had given a unique gift to them, as well. It was called Element Working. The Dragons soaked up everything Michael taught and soon were teaching their young.

This ability spread like wild fire throughout Dragos, and Michael felt more confident about the Dragons ability to defend themselves. It also allowed Michael some time to plan his next move, and he started training them in everything needed to run a successful kingdom.

Dragos was divided up into five regions with all of them being unique. However, they all knew on a basic level that they were all Dragons and always loved seeing their brethren. Even if they argued over simple matters, they all had a great respect for one another and for the balance of Dragos. They knew that without balance, the whole world would be thrown into chaos. The other commonality all four regions shared was that they answered to the Supreme Region and, by extension, to the King of Dragos.

The Kings of Dragos were not chosen by family heritage, but because Dragos had given a very special gift to those she thought were worthy. Michael saw this gift for what it was, and knew that it had the best chance for the Dragons race to succeed. This gift was an ability in addition to the Element Workings, and Michael decreed that any Dragon possessing such an ability would be crowned King of Dragos.

Notwithstanding, this didn't happen for several years and when it did, it took everyone by surprise. The first one to experience this precious gift was a Water Dragon named Zor Zallerferd, when an accident happened in the capital city of the Water Region, Trident Rising.

Five-year old Zor was coming home from his lessons at the local school. Zor was walking down the same path like normal when a huge crate of iron ore was accidentally dropped on top of him. Zor heard the rope start to break, and froze with fear. As the rope snapped; he put his hands over his head and ducked. There were screams from the crowd, as several Dragons rushed over. They lifted the crate that, surprisingly, stayed intact, to find Zor crouching, unharmed and glowing white. Word spread of this life-saving miracle.

Michael quickly heard about this, and went to see Zor. Talking to him, Michael discovered that Zor could harden his scales so much that nothing on Dragos could penetrate them. Michael made his proclamation that Zor was to start his apprenticeship him to learn how to rule.

That was thirteen years ago, and now Zor Zallerferd was just about ready to become King of Dragos. Michael was pleased with Zor, knowing that he had worked hard for this moment, and put into practice everything he'd been taught. For the moment, Michael ruled over the Dragons from The Supreme Region, which sat right in the middle of the other four, on the equator. As such, the Supreme Region was beautiful with trees and flowers of every sort. In fact, it resembled the valley the Dragons left back on Earth.

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

The gates opened to the roads to each of the four regions. Each gate indicating the direction one was going with one of the four elements beautifully carved into the mahogany wood of the doors. Every gate had two guard towers with two guards in each for those who meant harm to anyone, including themselves. Also, there were guards placed outside the gate to permit travelers and give information to those new to the Tower.

Normally, the grounds would be deserted with only a handful of Dragons either going to school or to conduct business with either the King or the administration. Most notably were the workers that were stationed within this tower to make operations run smoother. However, today was different, indeed, and everyone has come to see the crowning of the First King of Dragos. Michael had sent out the news about a month ago, so everyone would be able to make the journey in time.

The residents living in the Supreme Region were among the first to start pitching their tents. These residents started camping about a week after the announcement to watch the celebration. Merchants, also, took advantage of coming early to sell their goods. There were Fire Dragons selling handmade clothing and performing fire tricks. Terrain Dragons were making sculptures. The Wind Dragons were painting and drawing portraits of others while their musicians sung to instruments playing to the day.

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

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

The Terrain Dragons came after who camped in hunter green tents and joined on the festivities. They were a race of patience and seldom outgoing.

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

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

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

Michael looked out over the crowd from the eastern side balcony and smiled at the sea of Dragons, knowing that today was a good day to have the Coronation of Zor Zallerferd. This race has grown incredibly fast and was doing great, their future looked brighter than ever. Notwithstanding, Michael knew that the evil will soon start to infect this world and wished he could stay to help, but like any good general knows, sometimes there are more important battles to deal with. Michael had not only this side of the universe to handle, but the entirety of existence to protect.

Michael knew these Dragons have been sufficiently trained, and stood a better chance to defend themselves from attack. The assault would come, and he understood the training would be put to the test. Michael hoped the Dragons would be able to push back the Dark Realm before the final unleashing.

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

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

Behind the throne was a three by four foot painting of Michael. Michael didn't really want it, but because the Fire Region wished to thank him, he reluctantly accepted. Michael decided to hang it here in the throne room for every King to look at in case they needed a friendly face to give them encouragement.

On the opposite side of the room sat the oak doors, heading to the rest of the floor and tower. They usually remained closed to give a little privacy from unsuspecting listeners, as he turned his head towards the balcony to the long table in front of him that was mainly used for council meetings and nice dinners, caught his attention. A young Water Dragon sits at this table, filling out a scroll. This was Zor Zallerferd.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zor nodded for a moment thinking, "I really hope I do not mess up. It would be a shameful thing if I fail at the start."

"Well, I hate to see you go, but I do understand why you have to leave. Just know that you are welcomed back here any time you want." Zor said with a smile.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zor knelt and took a moment before answering. He felt so nervous about becoming King, and didn't want to let anyone down. However, Michael had trained him for this very moment, and knew that the training was paying off.

"I do so swear." Zor said, and the crowd erupted into thunderous applause once again. Cheers and whistles sounded out from the crowd for their new king. Michael let them cheer for a good five minutes, before raising his hands again to get the crowds attention.

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

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

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

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

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

Michael started to glow white at this point as everyone had tears in their eyes. This angel that had been with them throughout the thousands of years was now leaving them. Just like when a child strikes out on his own away from the family.

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

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

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

During the celebration, Hector made his way down to The Pearl Tower Hospital in the basement. He wanted to check on his mentor, having little notice beforehand that he was substituting for his mentor for some mysterious illness. Hector was beside himself, because as long as he'd known his mentor, he had never once seemed sick. In fact, he was one of the healthiest Dragons Hector knew and so it didn't make sense. However, the one thing that Hector knew was that his mentor didn't get sick until after the training session on the shore yesterday.

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

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

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

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

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

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