Hear you now a tale of a time long past, from the mists, when words like "Honor" still held meaning, and Men still held the hand of their Pokemon brethren in friendship and more. Many ages ago, when this ancient world wasn't quite so ancient, back when Man was only just recording his history, and putting to name all the things around him, the world was already changing.

Deep into a long stretch of forest, the trees hiding the sight of the ground from above while the bushes and plants below decorated the grassy floor, a figure was frantically running through it. Darting on her two legs she weaved past evergreens and oaks, having sprinted over the rocky hills surrounded by mist, but unable to find delight in admiring the natural surroundings as her mind could only believe in one thought: to run.

Her fire-typing did not lessen the burning in her lungs, as she knew not how long she had been running, or the distance her retreat has accumulated, but she knew she couldn't stop, her ears picking up the sounds of metal clanking in the distance, the unnatural noise of plated armor chasing after her was like the dance of unyielding chains, as if death itself has come to reap her.

She know she was tired, her stamina had long been empty time ago, and she was hungry, having eaten so little thought out these days, and above all she knew she was absolutely terrified, shocked and scared, tears were staining her crimson scales as she trampled across the flowers below, pleading to a unknown deity for her life not to be taken on this day.

But what she didn't know of all, was why? Why was she being chased, why was she being hunted, why someone was calling out her species name as he spurted out insults and mocks, seemingly taking actual delight in hunting her down, like the prize for a game? All she knew was to keep moving and plead for him to stop.

She breached the treeline and into a small clearing, away from the forest line, but any hopes to be free from her pursuer were dashed the moment she saw the clearing drop, her feet had to brake on the floor and clutch her claws on the nearby rock to top herself from falling off the edge. Her efforts were rewarded by her body not dropping down, her deep pants gave a second to compose herself as her sharp digits dug into the rock for comfort, yet even with her breathing heavy she could still hear the sound of stomping metal quickly approaching.

"I have you now, dragon." The deep voice of the figure called her kinds name as he stepped into the light; heavily plated and thickly armored, it seemed more steel-type than human, his face shadowed by his helmet as all the scared female could see was the piercing eyes of his staring into her soul, akin to a hungry predator about to pounce on his prey.

She called for him to stop, but her tongue fell on deaf ears as the man cared not for her pleas or the helpless look she was giving him. She knew it was impossible, as her eyes catching sight of the armored warriors belt: A scale, wing membrane, claw, all these were obvious trophies of the man's past kills, gave her insight into what, and perhaps now why, he was chasing her down.

Was this what her life had been leading up to; being ran ragged, the soles of her feet hurting from stomping over sharp stones, having eaten barely anything, all her struggles being met not with any respite but with the sharp end of a blade the armored one was brandishing to her? Was her lonely life really meant to end this way?

She accepted her fate, even knowing this was not how she wanted her life to end, she also knew there was not much waiting for her if she somehow could survive this, so at least in her mind, none will pity themselves with grief…

And as the sounds of footsteps grew closer, the Pokemon closed her eyes as she relented any possible ideas to escape, the screech of his sword being unsheathed was the final sound she believed she would hear before her own demise, not watching her murderer raise his sword aloft as he was ready to pounce...nor did she spot the shadow of another come out into the light of the sun.

"Halt!" A voice commanded, the single word bellowed out to the open air as it managed to stop the approach of footsteps, the frightened creature managed to peel open a eyelid to see what was happening; and watch as a new body came forward.

This was another human male, yet despite the similarities in initial judgement another glance threw her off by how this one looked: He was not dressed in garish plated metal like the first one, but his attire was more boorish, leather mail with only the barest of armor to cover his vitals, cloth trousers tucked into boots, with a cloak and leather braces, he would have looked rather primitive when compared to her attacker if not for the decorative torcs, armlets and braces he was adoring around him. And unlike the first human, whose face was observed behind a wall of shadow, the other was free from any form of headwear, showing off his young pale face, with dark hair down in braids that glowed a reddish-brown in the light of the sun, and the deepest blue eyes she had ever seen...iris' that were not aimed at her but instead this new male looked to have his attention poured only onto the armored foe before her.

"You hold no honor, hunting down an innocent Charmeleon for your own amusement!" His voice carried an edge of disgust as he spoke those words to him, eyes like piercing daggers staring with hatred. "Cease your ongoings now, Dragon-Hunter, or else face judgement".

"You're jesting with me?" The armored one sneered, turning his back to the fire-type as he pointed his sword mockingly to the other human. "You're actually taking its side, laying claim as its protector? More so, do you think such a tiny man as you can best one as strong as me?"

The question he spat out had not fazed the pale-faced human in the slightest, his expression made no hint to change, and he only reacted after the questioning, this man slowly reaching over to take a hold of his spear as he pointed the blade to the Dragon-Hunter, the Pokemon noticing a light glinting off the blade's edge despite its entirety being misty and overcast. Yet his opponent seemed none to bothered about the pole, laughing about how "That spear is as old as my ancestors. It cannot pierce my armor." He arrogantly mocked holding his sword as he prepared a charge.

"Your head will roll, stranger, I will not waste much time finishing you off before I collect my trophy." The other human didn't speak, only glaring dangerously as the grip on his spear tightened, his aim preparing.

"Die, you addled fool!" The armored one bellowed a call, charging himself straight towards the other with true ill-intent. Yet the cloaked human didn't seem at all fazed by the larger foe barreling toward him, as he kept himself steel faced, the Charmeleon still standing by in her dazed state was in light shock at this human, who was unhindered by the assault onto him as all he did was reel his spear back to aim and-

A sudden crack of thunder filled the air, the piercing boom was followed by a bright light as the Charmeleon huddled her face into her hands to protect herself from what she thought was lightning hitting the battlefield, cradled her head in fear and shock for a singular moment before her jolt managed to subside, letting her gain enough courage to look up from her claws.

Only the cloaked human was still standing, standing proud with his spear no longer in his grasp as he never moved forward an inch - which cannot be said for the one given the moniker Dragon-Hunter, as the Pokemon looked in utter disbelief at seeing his body had shifted ten feet back, having fell on knees as she noticed something very shocking about him - a huge hole had been formed in his chest, a severe gash that left a large opening even through his armor, the metal around the newly formed hole looked to be glowing red to the Pokemon.

Then she heard a hum, a low trill that seemed to be vibrating not to far from her position, a simple glance to her side revealed the source of the sound; it was his spear, not just lodged into the rock mere feet from her, but it actually has MELTED the area it hit, the stone shining white as droplets of the molten mineral seeped down its surface, even the wild Charmeleon could tell magic was at play here.

The fallen human was still gurgling blood when his adversary came over, walking over to stand in his front before calmly unsheathing his sword, glaring down at him with not a hint of pity before he whispered out "Woe to the vanquished." In just an instant, the man stabbed the Dragon-Hunter through the slit of his helmet, the only sound the felled one made was the puncture of his body from the blade as Charmeleon watched with stunned silence, seeing the victorious fighter pulls back out his sword and wipe it clean, the dead man's body finally dropped to his back as the victor sheathed his sword.

He then walked over to his spear, hovering his hand over it as she watched the blade almost be pulled into his grip, as if his reach went beyond this mortal plain. It was a far cry from the basic looking shield and sword he had, the blade almost as long as a shortsword, with the edge near the base widened with open half-circle holes either side. Golden wires were laden into the shaft, weaving down from spearhead to cap, the spear looked as extravagant as it was deadly.

She never pondered to flee, awestruck at all that had just transpired, mixed with the lingering fear she had gathered over the hours of fleeing, so when the still alive one looked her way, she cursed her name for ill judgement for not thinking to escape when she had the chance, and now the human was walking over to her, her legs wobbled as they failed to move even when she commanded them to.

She flinched when he stopped before her, melded herself into the boulder as she made herself as small as possible, not watching him kneel to her, offering his hand and softly, he spoke out:

"You are safe now." The Charmeleon's eyes bulged in shock at hearing him speak, not merely his words or tone alone that carried her to shock, but the language itself which surprised her.

"You...you can speak my language?" She asked in disbelief, the human nodding as he managed to understand every word she said. "Yes, I can but more importantly, take my hand so I can lead you back to your home safely." She looked down to his palm, reached forward for her to take, and for just a second, she nearly reached out to it, but the painfully reality of her own lack of permanent shelter held her claws back, the Pokemon feeling guilt about herself as she stayed her distance.

"I...I have no home to speak of. There is nor place I belong." The harsh reality tasted bitter in her tongue to say, even if she knew this truth longer than she wished to have.

"Then: would you like to come home with me? I can ensure your safety with my tribe, if you would trust me." Charmeleon stared in awe at him as he said those, looking him over with cautious eyes. He was undeniably powerful, stronger than any human she has seen before, yet there was something about him that seemed to calm down the Pokemon; his voice was so soft and gentle, his tone having a lilting, lyrical accent, as sweet as Beedrill honey, as comforting as Mareep wool. His skin was clean, his features affable, so young and innocent. If she had not been here to witness the fight, she would have found it impossible to believe a man such as this was so powerful. And then there was his eyes, the deepest blue she has ever seen, like endless pools of sapphire, so deep they shame the Seas.

He did not seem to hold any form of malice in his kind expression, any kind of hate, or wrong intent. Tentatively her hand waved forward, shaky, but more from the cold of the mist that still surrounded this mountain, the chill in the air not lost to the fire type. She was cold, hungry, and tired, and the promise of him to take her away from all that sounded preposterous, implausible, like a miracle with a dark twist...yet somehow, simply being in his gaze, she felt safe.

Her claws touched his palm, her digits dropping to his hands as his own fingers wrapped themselves securely in hers, and he gently pulled her to her feet, the Pokemon feeling a wonderful tingle run up an arm as she was brought up. His hand was the softest she has ever felt, his grip firm as he stayed true to his word, his skin so silky, even when she could feel some corded muscle. As they walked, him taking the lead, she felt him wrap his cloak around her, as if he was asking for her to take it. She did in kind, grabbing it with her free claw and pulling it around herself like a blanket, the slight wind no longer seeming to affect her now as this human began the trek homeward.

Down the mountains and through the forest they went, the two drifted through the mist without stopping as their hike took them far, the human keeping her safe in his cloak. When they mean to cross a river, he gently picked her up with one arm, letting her wrap her own arms around his neck as he skips and hops across the rocks. With her head so close to his, she looked to the torc he was wearing, the piece of intricate jewelry looked to be made with true solid gold. More so, her nose so close to his skin led her to being able to smell him, his natural musk light, but noticeable as it made her feel all the safer.

Leaning in, she rested her head onto his shoulder, and first the first time in a long while, relaxed in the comforting embrace of another.

The mist began to clear during their trek back to his home, the cold air being washed away as the Pokemon began to notice buildings coming into the distance, the sight of the homes gave her both a rise of awe, and also uncertainty, not entirely sure about being around others. This human, sure, she felt safe beside, but a whole tribe of other humans was something else. She was thankful the human never let her go as he had her stay close to her, keeping her near as he led her into the settlement.

As the houses came into focus the Charmeleon became shocked by how different it was from her expectation. The buildings were all made round, most with wattle and daub walls, some with stone and clay, with pointed cones for roofs. The outer walls were mostly just a combination of earth and wood with some stone, it all seemed like a village out of ancient texts, yet the humans she was seeing, those going about their own lives, looked anything but primitive in nature.

Then the human suddenly called out something in his language, one she couldn't understand, but taking a liking by how melodic it rang. Yet the call he bellowed filled her with dread when she noticed eyes beginning to stay at her, their faces twisted into surprise at seeing the red one come into their village, speaking in that unknown language of theirs, "Draiga!" being the most common as she could guess what that meant.

"Fear not, you are safe among friends." He said when she looked up to him, clinging to his leg out of worry, but the man's gentle expression did not fade as he gave her a comforting grip of his hand upon hers. It was after that she noticed the other people's faces looked at her in delight, smiles all among them as not a single one had an inch of disgust or fear of her presence being here. They all seemed pleased to see her, even the children, who came running to her in total awe, all cheerful and smiling.

The more the Charmeleon looked around her, the more she began to notice details of this village; she could see Pokemon living not just inside the village but inside their very homes, Eldegoss, Wooloo and even Pokemon as large as Mudsdale were seated inside the buildings like they were family. All humans wore torcs, of copper, bronze, silver and even the children wore iron torcs. Even the Pokemon were wearing torcs, such as one Golduck she spotted earing a sword, only for her to stop when a human child came to her, the Pokemon gladly picking her up and doting on her like a mother would her child. It moved the Charmeleon, even if just a little, at seeing how welcoming this group of people was to Pokemon. Almost relieving to see the image of Pokemon and humans working in tandem, living as family, helping the old to walk or grooming their fur, it practically looked peaceful…

"Brandarr!" A loud shout suddenly appeared, the humans and Pokemon suddenly making space as she watched a great chariot ride into the scene, carried by a duo of mighty steeds; a Rapidash with a mane of pastel colors, a horn as sharp as a lance, and a Zebstrika, who's hooves boomed the ground like lightning with every step, the two stopping short just before them as she watched another human drop themself down onto the grassy plain. This was a woman that was walking to them, a powerful-looking female wearing a torc as golden as this human she made sure his hand she still gripped. With long, curly hair, red as blood, and a long sash worn over her this woman came forward with an air of authority. "Just what have you brought before your Chieftainess?" Her voice like a boom as she demanded explanation from the other human.

Her stern expressions suddenly shifted when her eyes looked at the Pokemon herself, this strong woman actually smiled as she stepped to a knee in front of her, actually looking a bit amiable to the smaller female. "Shouldn't be surprised our tribe's Champion would be the one to bring a dragon into our village after so long." Strangely, the Charmeleon felt no shock in hearing him be called the Champion, not after witnessing his prowess first hand. "Where did you find her from?"

"She was being chased, Bardeia, by Dragon-Hunters. I managed to intervene in time, thankfully, for if I had been just a few seconds late..." He trailed, not that the Pokemon noticed as she watched the Chieftainess smile fade upon hearing the words Dragon-Hunters face twisted with what looked like anger before it became calm once again. "She wishes to join our village."

"Then no matter about loose presumptions. For today, today we can celebrate, for we now have a new tribe member, and a special one at that!" The Pokemon blinked as the audience cheered, surely believing they didn't mean her of all creatures.

She suddenly felt a little tug on her hand, and looking up Brandarr softly spoke asked her simply "Confused?" She nodded a little, still wary of the behaviors these humans have for her, the way they cheered for the Chieftainess, how happy they seemed in hearing her actually becoming a new member of the tribe.

"Come with me. I will show you why the tribe is all merry for your presence." He led her away, no longer seeming to be the centre of attention as the tribe that was just moments ago in awe at seeing her were now moving off, ignoring her presence while Brandarr guided her away.

He pulled her to a hut, a nominal looking one as seemingly common as any other. Non descriptive it was, he still guided her inside without a worry to let her see what was inside.

She gasped immediately at what he let her see; the walls of this hut were lavishly paintings all around, of paintings depicting humans alongside Pokemon, the most common of which were large and imposing, with thick snouts and long wings, snorting fire out their mouths:

They were dragons, rows and rows of the entire encircular wall looked to have been appointed as a mural for her kind; with humans riding dragons, of them fighting alongside, and even some of them just holding the hands of the humans. Off to the side, she could see a wooden sculpture of one holding human children carefully in its claws.

"The Monari tribe believes dragons to not be the fearful, dangerous creatures as the stories by weaker men have been told, but instead noble, strong beasts, benevolent in their truest nature. To our tribe, dragons are the First Children of the Gods, and any harm being taken upon them is an egregious sin, and even some of our legendary heroes have been born from dragon blood within them." She stared at him in absolute awe, the human waved his wand in response as he let her bask in the mural meant for her kind. "You see, as spoken by our tales, when humans first stepped down from immortality, we were cold, scared, meek. But it was a dragon that took pity on us, and she used her fire to warm us, embracing us with her mighty arms, wings and tail. The first words she ever spoke were 'Come unto me, dear little ones, and I shall warm you'..." She looked in shock when she noticed a few tears staining his cheeks, Brandarr not even mentioning this as he continued to stare at the mural around him.

"This is why we revere your kind, why we do not hate them, and more so, why we are celebrating your arrival. You are the first one our generations has ever come across, and we herald your arrival as good tidings, for we had feared the worst outcome."

When he finished his speech, he let her bask in the reality he has shown her. He had strongly assumed she never knew there were humans who not only didn't hate her kind, but actually near worshipped them, not as Gods but as people. It sounded so...impossible, nearly, her isolated life had whispered ideas into her mind of staying away from others, lest they hunt her out of fear. But now, from this moment, it was as if her entire life experience had come crashing down on her, all she knew meant absolutely nothing.

And yet, now, after this revelation, she only wished she knew about this tribe much sooner.

"Come, it is now time for feasting." He patted her head softly, holding out his hand for her once again. "What say you then, will you stay here with us, and join our tribe?" She need not much time to answer him.

"All my life, I have never found a place I could call home, only a shelter from the wind and rain. I grew up alone, without friends and family, surviving as best I could, be it with sneaking around or fighting for food. I never thought there was such a place where I could call home.

But now, being here, I want to see this as the place I belong, with people who will care for me, but that does not mean I wish to be worshipped, for I have done so little for anyone, so I ask not to be placed upon a pedestal, but be called a member of your tribe like any other. Let me help your tribe and fight alongside them, let me repay the life debt you have given me, and I will prove to your tribe I am worthy of being called a descendant of those you revere in tales."

In response to her determined exclamation the human beside her nodded with gratitude. Truly, he believed not in needing her to prove anything about herself, her simple existence and agreement to stay with them was more than enough for himself, yet the bold attitude she allowed herself to wear, from mere hours ago running away from a lone man to now standing up and refusing to be worshipped without reason, it made him proud, in a way, knowing the one he saved had such a strong heart within her.

"I think that can be allowed. Now come, there is a feast being prepared, and all of the tribe would love for you to join us." He held out his hand for her to take, and without a second thought needed she gladly took it, not just for wanting to be a part of this rare tribe among tribes...but also a feast sounds perfect for her now, the Charmeleon surprised her belly hadn't yet made growls to symbolises her great hunger.

The Grand Hall was not just the Chieftainess' house merely for coincidence, it was also the main assembly for the tribe, being bigger than all others, and easily spotted with enigmatic designs and spirals on the stone and clay wall, it was here the feast was prepared around a large low table, circular in design, with the middle hollow for the servants to prepare the meals with the cauldron and fire. The Pokemon was in awe at the sight of the place, like the hut, the walls were filled with paintings of her kind, some designs even carved into stone pillars for her to admire, yet this alone was not what left her in amazement.

Besides the merry atmosphere, the tribe welcoming to each other, friendly and cheerful, she was surprised how readily she was allowed to sit with them. With the Chieftainess sitting at the head of the table, facing the door, the Champion seated next to her, the Pokemon herself sat by the other side, almost feeling a little too privileged to be allowed so close. Yet she was not truly alone in this grant, as even other Pokemon were seen sitting down by the table, part of this huge expanding family.

But above all this, it was not her placement that shocked her the most, neither the skulls of beheaded foes adorning the pillars, or even how cheerful the humans were in greeting her with smiling faces, it was the food that was heartily given to her without any warrant of favor that left her gobsmacked. There were rows of bowls filled with hot stew, roasted meat on platters, a few even glazed with rare spices, and fish cooked and grilled with delicate herbs, all of it led her to drool from the sight, unable to stop herself from reaching to the meal.

Then she took her first bite. Soft, lovely music being sung in music so beautiful to her, a warm seat that took away any chill from the cold winds of the outside, the smiling people all around enjoying all this together, accompanied by the flavor that oozed out of the meat, the juices dripped along her tongue as the she crunched down on the food...tears were being dropped down from her eyes as she couldn't contain her emotions much longer, the joy she felt after being shown a miracle of a place were personified by the liquid staining down her face. For the first time in what may have been her conscious life she felt what must be...peace.

"Ha ha ha, enjoying the food, are we!" Bardeia boisterously exclaimed, wrapping her arm around the Charmeleon's side to bring her closer to the leader, taking no heed of how vicious she may react as she treated the Pokemon like an old friend.

Charmeleon nodded in response, despite not being used to the familiar contact, she felt no reason to push her away, the side-hug comforting to her. Not that she could say much though, her mouth filled with food. "Bwa ha ha!" The Chieftainess' bellows of cheer screamed louder than any wind, as the dragon felt slightly awkward by how she still had her arm wrapped around her head. "That's great to hear!"

Pouring herself a mug full of mead the Chieftainess raised her drink up and called. "Hey, a toast to our wonderful dragon-friend!" Cheers and woops resounded from all over the table as the leader downed the whole thing in one gulp. Looking over, she made eye contact with Brandarr, the hugged-up Pokemon was met with the smiling face of her savour, the human silently holding up his own mug to the Pokemon, as if he was silently saying all is good.

It managed to calm her, smiling back at him as she finally was able to gulp down her food when Bardeia relented her hold on her, letting her get back to the food she craved so dearly.

"Brandarr, you've met the Ordolians recently, haven't you? How's their Chieftain lately?" Bardeia called to the one human sitting by her side.

"Finally got around to being married, the aging fool. With their matron goddess being Equia, I saw it no surprise he ended up with a Rapidash mare." Between bites, the silent Pokemon listened into the conversation with both interest, and now confusion.

"Well, I'm glad I'm not their Chieftain, or I wouldn't survive the consummation!" She looked to her two equine partners behind her, causing an uproar of laughs to belch out from the tribes mouths, with the Pokemon beside her spitting out her mead when the realization came.

"I'm sorry." She piped up, her tiny call caught the voice of only the two humans sitting nearby her. "Pardon my query, but did you state that humans were marrying Pokemon?" Brandarr gave a nod to her question, followed by a "Yes, the Ordolians have a custom for the Chieftain to marry one, though it's very common for others of their tribe to comply as well. To them, they believe they are honoring their Gods and their Tribal Contract with them."

The Charmeleon gave a glance around the room, seeing all the Pokemon sitting nearby the humans like one big family, and though she could not see it, she could speculate all the same. "And it's the same here?"

"Well, no." Bardeia answered her. "We are a different tribe, with different customs, mind you, if one of us asked for a marriage contract with a Pokemon, I wouldn't force anything negative to them." Her words gave a little rise to thought in the Flame Pokemon's mind, a little pondering over the ways of the tribes.

"So you're a different tribe, and yet you feel no ill to others believing in different customs?"

"Why have senseless violence over something as meaningless in different beliefs. Even when we disagree over what we feel dear to our heart, we see no reason to rage a war over it. Unwarranted bloodshed does nothing but hurt the innocent and the harmless."

"But...If that's true, why was I hunted down so mercilessly by a Dragon-Hunter?" Though her words came out louder than before, she never tried to make them echo off the walls, yet the simple question could have been screamed out like a gail by how it silenced the room, the whole tribe inside stared in shock at what the Charmeleon had spoken, making the Pokemon feeling a little nervous as all the eyes were on her, all the music and merriment just suddenly dropping dead.

"They were doing what?" A giant of a man slammed his fist down on the wood.

"Killing a dragon? What a disgraceful and barbaric practice." A woman spoke out in disgust, followed shortly by the room being filled with angry comments and idle threats, a few spirited words were even directed at their Champion for his lack of not telling them sooner about this revelation, said human stayed silent and let the comments on to him, the Charmeleon feeling a rise of guilt for indirectly letting hate be spurred to him.

"All right, simmer down you hot-heads!" Bardeia broke up the loud tension roughly, her booming voice silenced the whole room. "We knew these people have existed for decades, so don't act like this is recent news. Whether or not Brandarr should have explained this is irrelevant even when he first introduced our dragon here, so don't you go pretending the blame is on him. More importantly, we doubt she even knows why-" A sudden grab on the Chieftainess' arm caught her attention as looking by her side she could see the serious expression he had on. She nodded in understanding, taking her seat as the room became bathed in silence momentarily.

"Allow me to explain." He turned to the Charmeleon with a stoic look worn on his face

"We are an old culture." Brandarr managed to sigh out to the Flame Pokemon. "Likely one that will die out within some generations after us, if the tides of change will keep on winding. But we still keep our beliefs tied to our chest, we pray to our many God and Goddesses, all in Nature, but we do not wish to fight others for it. But the Dragon-Hunter and his people believe in only Arceus, the one and only God, and have been taking holy-crusades against the non-believers. Among their targets are the dragons; for they believe your kind are malevolent and cruel, and deserve to be exterminated because of it." Charmeleon took it all in, her appetite suddenly vanishing as she listened to his harsh truth of reality.

"But you should not worry, we will never bow down to their ways. Our tribe, and others among this land, know to never become like them. With us you will be safe, as we will gladly lay down our lives for what we believe in." Hoops and hollers of agreement were called out, shouts that bounced off the walls as the humans, and even the Pokemon began to rally by Brandarr's vow, heads nodding among the quieter ones.

But the Pokemon that were talking about could not agree with them in full, quietly speaking "I do not wish to have lives gone for me. I have not done anything worthy of sacrifice."

"Because it's truly not about yourself." Brandarr replied. "It's about our convictions, and the faiths we believe in. a hundred dragons, or just you, we will all gladly protect each and everyone if it means we keep our hope alive." More calls of agreements rang out, the Chieftainess finally having enough of staying silent as she took up her mug and held it high.

"You heard that you layabouts; I better not hear you running off when our new friend needs you the most, or I will personally hunt you down and have you thrown into the deepest pit." Only a few murmurs were given in response.

"I said; DO YOU HEAR ME!" She roared like a horn, her eruption of a demand finally brought the room to an uproar, jeers and bawl were called out in determined barks, all the men and women agreeing with her statement as their enthusiasm was infectious even to the shy Charmeleon, who couldn't help but feel cheer among hearing those willing to stand up for her.

"Good, now; back to the feast with the lot of you, we came here to eat and be merry, do I make myself clear!" Bangs of mugs hit the table as the people began to engorge their mouths with the food, the spirited people ate with vigor, disregarding any sense of manners as they drank themselves stupid.

Even wanting the Flame Pokemon to chime in along with them, the Champion of them all present a mug of mead for herself before sitting back down and continuing on with his one plate. The music began anew, the sounds of excitement continued and the Charmeleon, she felt a little happier hearing there are those who would help a stranger such as she.

Night had fallen quickly, and what had been a room bathed in revelry and elation had now became a sullen place; the Pokemon were tired, most of the men drunk, and while some were helpful led back to their home, a few could barely move, out for the count until Bardeia would literally drag them out of her house.

Even the Charmeleon was feeling a little tipsy, having had a few mugs herself as she had found herself lost in the joyous feasting, caring for a good long hour about little more than filling up her stomach. As night had fallen, the feast having ended, Brandarr helped her to her feet as she led her away, going into the cold, but thankfully not chilly outside as he directed into the cozy inside of a home, the human leaving a comment for about how tired she looked, and she herself would admit, after everything that happened today, she was a little hazy.

The inside was cozy, warm, and a little look around her made it clear to her it wasn't the first time she had been in this place today.

"Come and lie down." He led her to a soft-looking bed on the floor. "We both are tired."

She agreed, slowly draping her body over the bedding, being careful of her fiery tail, and touched down onto the bedding:

And it was utterly so SOFT! Her head resting on a cushion of soft feathers and soft cloth, the fur underneath buttery-soft and warm, and wool blankets that were as loving as a mother's embrace, she felt she had been taken to heaven, all so lovely and warm, all so perfect for her.

A perfection that deemed itself to be too grand, the presence of all her previous life experience dawned to her that something will go awry, somehow, whatever she had been given would not last. Life was cruel to her, unforgiven and mean-spirited, and with how happy she was now...she began to have spots of fear over how it would all come crashing down.

Brandarr, getting himself ready for sleep as he took his shirt off, had seen her facial expression twist into unease, the squeaks of anxiety that whispered out her closed mouth had not gone unnoticed. "Would you deem it decent it if I slept beside you?" He asked honestly, showing great concern in his tone. While she was a little apprehensive all the same, she nodded quietly.

Moving his own bed next to her, the shirtless man laid down under the covers as he studied the slightly shaking Pokemon, calmly asking "What is bringing you this suspicion of awful tidings?"

She looked to him, letting out a tiny murmur of a sigh before slamming her head into the pillow, staring upwards to the ceiling while she was unable to look him in the eye. "All I had been given, all I have been offered, all the kindness I had been shown. It sounds too incredible, too impossible, I fear...I fear that one day, it will all cease to be, in the worst ways imaginable. I don't want to lose this place, lose you, after all I had been given, but I believe it will, purely as my life has taught me anything good will be met with a harsher end." Brandarr nodded to her, understanding her pain, knowing she had no home, a loss of any family he had already assumed was real. Gently, he reached out to her, grabbing her claws and holding it firmly in his grasp as he made sure he got her attention.

"My people have a word: 'Teili'; a word without an equal comparison in any other language. When I say this to you, it means I will always be there for you, always and in all things. I have sworn my own duty when I first laid eyes on you, believing that word when you were hunted, and from then on I have pledged my life to make sure you will never be worried about being hunted down and killed for the rest of your mortal life, you will always have a plate of food ready for you, to never feel the cold as you will always be warm. Alongside me, you should never feel sad ever again."

Her emotions could not hold her together anymore, her words pulled her apart until finally it broke, finalizing with the Pokemon breaking down into sobs as she could not handle all the kind words he has given her. Brandarr moved like lightning, hugging her gently to his chest and rocking her sweetly, letting her cry into his chest as he gladly pulled up both blankets to surround their forms, keeping both warm on this freezing night as he laid still with her in his grasp.

"Tell me, you never told us your name." He asked after he gave her time to calm down. "What would you like to be called?"

"...I'm not sure." She said under her breath. "I was never called anything but Charmeleon throughout my life. I have no true name." While she looked solemn, Brandarr didn't mirror her demeanor as he thought a little on her words. He thought of what she meant to not just for him, but the tribe as a whole; the revelation this generation has found their first dragon after so much made her come off as a figurehead of sorts, a representation of how the tribe will keep to the values and how she would lead them into it.

"How about 'Penni'?" He said after a good few seconds of thinking.

"Penni?" She repeated in his human tongue, letting the singular word roll off her tongue, hugging up to the man as she relished the feeling of his body on hers. "I like it." She stated, these the final words she said before letting sleep take her.

When she woke up, she found herself still snuggled up in his arms.

With a long yawn, Penni walked herself outside into this new morning air. Wiping at her eyes, she looked forward; the sun was bright in the sky, the grass below sparkling from the early dew, there was no wind or mist, not hot but far from cold, mildly warm as she could smell something nice flowing into her nostrils.

"And a good morning to you." He said as he handed something to her, Brandarr had waited patiently for her to come outside as allowed her to take the bowl in his hands. Taking a big whiff of the delicious smell, Penni was delighted at the food given to herself; a hearty combination of meat, potatoes and herbs drowning in a stock, this Pokemon wasted no time in feverishly gobbling up the stew.

"Come." She looked up to him as she finished the last of her food, gulping the last mouthful down as he leaned on the wall. "I'll show you around."

Though she no longer needed to hold his hand the Charmeleon still made sure to walk alongside him, keeping up with his stride as she took a look around the settlement, this time with a more curious and eased temperament. Now that the people are used to her, no longer did they gawk at the sight of herself, though some still watched with interest, she no longer felt to be the centre of attention, instead she felt like she could walk on and not be crowded, allowing her to enjoy the serene scenes of tribe life: she saw the blacksmith's assistant chiseling designs into the links of a cauldron chain. Turning, she saw the woodcarver finishing their marvelous work on a set of bedposts.

The tribe really did live in harmony with the Pokemon: as Penni watched a bunch of children play with some Poochyena, with the Mightyena mother watched over not just her own young but also the children as well. Farther past the outside of the village she could see a pair of Mudsale plowing the farming fields while a human worked carefully at the front, motioning at them with their hands, with their Mudbray offspring trying to help move the clay and mud.

"Your tribe really doesn't show any apprehension with living alongside Pokemon, does it?" She murmured allowed, still rather astounded to see how relaxed the humans can be alongside Pokemon, not treating them as pets, or as workers, just as friends.

"Maybe, why don't you ask for his opinion?" Brandarr pointed across from her, Penni following his direction as she watched a human approach. A small one at that a little tyke that couldn't be more than a year and a half old, was gleefully walking towards the Flame Pokemon despite barely managing to walk at all. Penni stood her ground as the little thing came up close to her, giggling with pure innocence before he hugged her leg.

The Charmeleon froze, unsure of what to do with the wee human clinging to her. Around her a few of the others watching snickered with amusement, including Brandarr, who smirk didn't not help her in the slightest. "It's fine to hug back." He elucidated to the red female. "Just be gentle."

She looked right to the toddler, the cutie still giggling with joy as his cheek brushed against her scales, not rough in the slightest, only warm to the child, so tentatively, she reached her claws down and brought him to a careful hug, the tiny thing giggling more as he rocked her body on her, as for the first time in her life, she was giving a hug to someone smaller than herself.

And the smile that grew was indicative enough that she was enjoying it herself, basking in this hug as it was the most wondrous feeling she has ever felt in all her life, tears swelling up in her eyes as she rocked the boy, smiling and crying as she didn't want to let go.

All that looked smiled at this, including a robed human watching from afar, and thinking of how this was as good as an omen they could have wished for, as she proclaimed to herself "Our kindred the Dragons have truly returned." before disappearing back into the shadows unnoticed as the pair continued on.

To the Charmeleon's surprise, the place Brandarr had taken her to was not at all what she expected, but not something she could say she disliked either. As now, the Pokemon was enjoying a very relaxing dip in a hot tub, the large cauldron heated by the fire below was lovely and warm, so long as she made sure to be careful of the placement of her tail.

Among the notes she found remarkable about this tribe, among them was how clean everybody had seemed, very few having dirt smeared over the faces, save for the farmers, but with how nice the stuffed they used smelt, she saw it understandable why they would constantly want to, the small bars they used to clean off dirt and deter pests smelled strongly of lavender, and other herbs, and washing herself down she never felt cleaner in her life, lying in the tub as only the sound of Brandarr cleaning himself broke free from the silence of the hut.

Peacefully, she let her eyes wander around the room, taking observation over the drawing on the walls. Not purely focused on dragons like Brandarr's own home, this hut had various over kinds of Pokemon drawn all over, yet not looking to depict various scenes, but instead symbols of worships.

"Brandarr." She pointed to one such drawing of a large-looking Sawsbuck. "What does that drawing depict?"

"That is one of our Gods: Cernun. She is worshipped as the bringer of life, who had given this world the gift of soul, allowing all non-mortals, from humans and Pokemon to the grass we feed our Mudbray's to live and flourish on this land.

Next to her is Rhaven, who is the bringer of death. As is the fragile balance this world must live in, there cannot be life without death. But he is not pernicious in nature, as he just is a vital part of the Balance of Existence as any other." She nodded in understanding, finding intrigue with his explanations, and an interest in his culture.

"What of the other two on the wall over there?" She pointed to a new side, showing more of the Gods, one that looked to be of a giant Pyroar and Crobat. "On the right..." He began, getting up behind the Charmeleon. "Is Copernica, who is the one that blesses us with the Sun every morning."

"And on the left..." Suddenly, the Pokemon felt two human hands grasp her head, the ten-fingered digits rubbing into her temples as he brushed in the soap on her head. "Is Leuto, who's form brings with her the moon." Penni let out a low growl as she lied her back against the tub, her arms holding onto the sides as Brandarr worked his magic fingers onto her.

Oh, she was definitely going to love it here, the place, filled with warmth and laughter was a light, a beacon to guide her to her true home.

"If you wish to become a protector among us, then you will need to acquaint yourself with your fellow warriors. The men and women that stand before us are those that have dedicated themselves to the art of the spear and sword." Brandarr announced as he led her towards a group of armed humans, the well built soldiers were all wearing their tribes armor, swords and daggers in sheaths, they seemed ready to lead a charge into an incoming fight already. That is, if they didn't look so serene and peaceful, none among them wore a scowl or had depression inside their veil of aura, instead they seemed rather cheerful, more so now that a dragon appeared before them.

One of the warriors stood right up, Penni watched the giant of a man stand on his two large feet as he walked right over to herself, the Pokemon bewildered in thinking that this titan was actually human, each step he took looked to shake the very earth he walked on, but yet, even as he marched to her, getting down on his knees to be at eye-level with the female, she felt no hesitation with his presence, the cheerful grin he wore behind that bushy beard gave her no instance of feeling threatened.

"So this is the dragon our Champion has brought to the tribe?" The big man had his eyes wonder over to the Champion in question. "Typical of him to bring back the smallest one he could find."

"Just for that I'm sparring with you next." Brandarr spit back, albeit playfully as both men wore smirks on their faces, the bigger male laughing in glee with his deep voice.

"I am only joshing, it is a grand pleasure to actually meet you, I go by Dres." He held out a hand for her, the Flame Pokemon looking at for just a second before taking it and shaking as best she could as she answered back "My name is Penni."

Though, all she could really try was wobble her arms, both her claws barely fitting over his huge hands as the large-than-life man was as still as a statue. "Nice to meet you Penni, it does makes me happy to see a real dragon with my own eyes in my own mortal life. I always said there's still some of your kind out there." He patted her shoulder, as despite his large size and thick muscle mass, he was as gentle with her as a parent their child.

"And I said I'm sparring with you next." Brandarr walked to the side as he gripped onto the shaft of one of the spears that was without an owner. "Penni, I want you to watch us for today. You'll need to see how we fight, how we move, so go settle on a seat." She understood, quickly sitting herself down on a log as both competitors moved away from the group to a more open ground.

As Brandarr took a stance and readied his spear, Dres reached around and pulled out his own weapon; a double-headed spear, almost as tall as he was, and in his hands she could see him twirl it around in his hands so fast it almost cannot be seen.

If the Charmeleon had never met Brandarr before until today, she would be sure this fight would be done in an instant by the biggest of the two. But Penni knew how powerful a man like the Champion truly could be, as even without his fabled spear in his grasp, he still was a force to be reckoned with, so she felt little surprise in seeing him keeping up with the twin-headed spear.

Dres slashed around with all his might, spinning his spear around as both blades cut through the air like a piercing wind, and each single slice was spun with enough strength to cut straight through an ordinary man's arm with ease, yet Brandarr was far from ordinary: His movements had a grace to them, his speed practically inhuman as he effortlessly dodged each twirl of the spear, not a single hit landing as the Champion pressed forward himself, assaulting with his own spear and putting the bigger man on the defensive, almost forcing Dres back as neither made sure to give an inch.

Penni watched with awe at the sight of the two mighty men spar, the attacking of one another was like a deciding battle of fate, and all this between two had no intention of actively hurting one another, it was akin to a clash of mythical proportions.

So engaged was the Charmeleon, she didn't notice the presence of another human taking a seat right next to her. "Take it you haven't seen our warriors fight much?" Penni took a glance to her side, seeing another warrior, this was one a female, sitting right beside her. She wasn't as big as Dres, or even Bardeia, but she still looked powerful even with her young disposition.

"Only Brandarr, once, and even then, the fight was settled quickly by his magic spear."

"Well, it is the Thunder Spear, the fabled weapon that is said to be forged by God and Pokemon alike, said to be once wielded by the Hound of Uliea; Came lein. No doubt the match wouldn't last long, if he brought it into play." She leaned her herself back on the log as stated this all casually. "It's far too dangerous to be used unless the most dire of circumstances have arisen. For him to use it so readily to save you, it must mean he really must have cared for your life. The name is Lyda, by the by."

"Penni." Her singular word came out, looking back to the two warriors dance of war. "I knew the spear was rather celestial in nature the first time I saw him use it. It seems valuable, and old, was it a gift from his parents?"

"No it..." Lyda paused. "It is granted to the next Champion of our tribe. When he can no longer hold the moniker of Champion, a new warrior must arise and take his place, and so onto them the spear is given." Penni had spared the human a look, noticing quickly how her face froze momentarily when she tried to answer.

"...Brandarr has no other family, does he?" The question shocked the woman, not realizing how quickly the Pokemon had picked up on her stlited answer.

"...Yes." She relented. "His mother had died from the plague before he could even hold a dagger, and his father died protecting him from an enemy tribe. Ever since then, he had no parents to his name." She stopped her speaking for a few moments to observe the man in question sparring with Dres, the way his body moved, his strike back, his dodges, his movements were vastly contrasting from how the others fought.

"He had always been different, our Brandarr. He was always smaller than us, thinner, but he was also faster, stronger. He had a peculiar air about him, believing whole-heartedly in the veneration of the dragons, and being stalwart with the stories his mother taught, of them protecting the weak and helpless, which seems to resonate with him now as a man, yet...in the end, I have seen it also left him disconnected with others."

"But he's not alone now, is he?" Penni interjected. "He has all the other warriors, like you and Dres, not to mention people like Bardeia, so at least he never feels to be isolated."

Lyda shook her head, almost solemnly to the smaller female besides her. "There's all kinds of alone, Penni." She stared off into the distance, almost as if forgetting about the dragon seated beside her. She said nothing more, but her silence spoke more words than any sentence could. She too looked at the human, seeing him move and sweat, and pondered over his own life.

To her surprise, she began to see parts of herself in him, alone in the world, no parents to say goodnight to, or feel safe with. She never wanted to be alone, even when the deck of cards called fate gave her a bad hand, and she would never wish for this to happen onto anyone else, especially her savoir. She wanted to get closer to him, to be alongside him, for as long as she could, for she believed, it was her duty to protect him as well.

The final people Brandarr believed Penni needed to meet were the most mysterious members of the tribe. Bathed in dark robes, faces obscured by the hoods, the only part of them not covered by the cloth was their hands, the gorup of people looked be living shadows by how little they vehemence that had for themselves.

They were the Dewa, or the Wise Ones, in her tongue. Brandarr explained to her that their importance was not just mere philosophical, as they were also the healers and mathematicians of the tribe, vital to their people. They were incredibly smart, but also incredibly impassive, not one among them seemed shocked at all meeting the dragon, only seeming to nod in her presence.

Instead they seemed more concerned with looking out the distance, using odd bronze tools Penni didn't understand as they spoke among themselves about the sun and the sky. "They are calculating when best to plant and reap the crops." He explained, Penni looked up to him disbelief. "The rest of us do not know how they can tell, but their predictions have helped us numerous times, so we give them our thanks and respect for all they have done."

The two stood there in complete silence, watching them work and speak among themselves while measuring with their metallic devices. They weren't all human as well, Penni began to notice, as among the robed people was a Lucario, quietly sitting cross-legged by herself as she hummed a tune, eyes closed while she was locked in deep concentration, and only opening them slowly when she had formed a revelation.

"Rhiannus..."

"I have learnt." An elderly female stated as she turned to the rest. "In two days there will be rainfall, with a long session of dry." Penni was shocked by how accurate they deemed themselves, not one of them doubtful of the older woman's claims. The named Dewa rose up from her seat, walking away from them to the dou. Penni could see how old the woman named Rhiannus was, her hair turning white with age, but held no sign of retiring being written on her face. She bowed down to the Pokemon, who was understandable taken back by the hunch of respect.

"We are all pleased to hear we now have a dragon among our tribe. It makes our hearts swell in knowing your kind has not perished from existence."

"The...the pleasure's all mine." Penni bowed back, unsure of what else to do, especially in the presence of those revered so highly by the tribe, yet thankfully her reply was not met with offence, and she could have sworn the old lady smiled at her momentarily.

Just for a second, as her expression twisted to one of deep thought, lasting for but a few seconds before she nodded, seemingly to herself

"Three days." A statement directed to Brandarr. "Let three days pass, and have her meet us in the grove." Brandarr nodded without a word, bowing graciously to the woman before ushering the Pokemon away, leaving them be as Penni was only able to watch them as she left, and wonder what they wanted of her.

Days had passed for the Charmeleon, and as despite her previous ideas, the tribal life of the Monari was purely peaceful in its entirety. Sure, she slightly wished for there to be some action within the tribe so she can show her worth to Brandarr, and the others, but she also knew badly of a disaster that could go, and calmly settled for the tranquil life this land was steeped in.

She was still young, at least for a dragon, to the humans, so they only allowed her to take part in easy patrols, Brandarr being in charge of her training while she learnt the basics of the spear and shield. While not learning to fight, she was allowed to play among the children, the little ones would beamed in absolute delight when she came forward to have fun. She felt immense satisfaction playing with the tykes, as she so far was unable to prove her worth in battle, she could at least prove it be protecting the children from tedium and sadness.

She allowed this allotted time to learn more of the tribe; as Brandarr explained to wear, the reason why the torcs they all wear vary in material was because it denotes the status of the wearer; the children wear the lowest, made from black iron, while the adults were at least copper for the lowest in importance, bronze for the heavy workers, silver for the warriors and finally gold, made for only the most important to the tribe, such as himself and the Chieftainess. She also learnt of those that married into the tribe, such as the few that wore complex tattoos on themselves, who Brandarr told were members of the Caledonae tribe, who have different practices with the Monari, but they respected their ways enough to give rise to internal strife.

But she never forgot about the request from the Wise One, remembering it well each day, and refusing to feel fear from the unexplained demand. With Brandarr guiding her, she kept right beside him as he led him into the woods, past the trees until she could spot something in the incoming distance.

It was in clearing, a small portion of the forest which was spread out from trees, with the exception of just one, large, thick oak standing proud in the middle. Surrounding the clearing was a ring of standing stone, most looked untouched by human hands, and alongside them she could see statues of creatures and people she has yet to know. Her keen sense of smell picked up on the air being filled with the scent of baked food and fresh fruit, and her eyes saw how bright the area was the sunlight seeped into the middle of this place, an almost celestial glow flowed over the dark robes of the Wise Ones.

"Penni, you have finally come." The recognizable voice of the named Dewa stepped forward to greet her. Taking a hold of her hood, she lifted it off her head, showing off her wrinkled face, along with her snowy hair, two braids of it pinned to her head that adorned her like a crown, and a singular one at the back. No less, Penni was not surprised to see her wearing a torc of aged gold, but was more so seeing the soft, gentle smile she had on. "Please, we wish for you to join us." She ushered the dragon to her, being met alongside the forceful parts of the Brandarr as well, the Monari Champion wanting her to go with them with reassuring tap. She nodded, letting Rhiannus lead the way.

"Our Champion has not discussed this place with you yet, I assume?" Rhiannus asked, Penni stating as much needed back. "The grove you see before us is sacred ground, a place none may enter unless we allow them to, as it is where we Dewa give thanks to the great spirits, where we pray to the divine beings, and give thanks..." She waved her hand to the base of the trunk, where spotted a small bounty of food lying on the ground. "Where we give cakes of oats and blood as offerings, giving back what we take from the soil to keep us happy and healthy. It is where we pray for the blessings of life, and remember the sacrifices the old ones have gone through for us." She waved to the statues all around, namely to three specific ones. By the side, just outside the grove were three perfectly crafted statues. Charmeleon had seen the other human human statues, but only of Arceus from outside the villages, the one creator above all. But none here of even him, just of Gods she had never seen before, specifically the three Rhiannus guided her to.

"We worship many, to the flawed humans whose vices' we understand, to the roaming Dwytha, who we leave gifts of nuts, honey and bread in copper vessels for them to share, and before you are the statues of those we worship upon this time." She looked at the three, one was of a female human, beautiful even carved in stone, and adorned with a dress of leaves, moss and grass. "There is Floreta, the spirit of nature and Motherhood, who's very ground she walks on becomes the most fertile of soil." Next to her is a male, but not as human as the other, as he had antlers spouting out his head, claws for hands and hooves for feet. He adorned armor on his person, and held a spear and shield rightfully. "Next to her is her husband Dedra, a powerful being that embodies the energy of males, protection and Fatherhood." Between them was a small boy, smiling brightly with a hair of fiery temper. "And there is their Divine Son, Mabius, who embodies youthful energy, curiosity and learning." Penni stared up at the statues, the sight of the three gave her a feeling of peace under their gaze, truly, they were not ones to be feared.

To her shocked, she watched as a robed human came over and pulled out the antlers from the statue of Dedra, the stones coming free without resistance as the Wise One handed it to others watching them place foliage of copper and bronze leaves, with sheaves of wheat for upcoming harvest before the brought towards the dragon herself. The hooded one bowed before her as he presented the antlers for her to take. Understandable, Penni was confused about what was happening, yet thankfully Rhiannus explained to her. "Penni, dragon of our tribe, we wish for you to be the one to place the antlers of Dedra back on him."

The Pokemon took them gratefully in her arms, carefully holding them in her grasp as she turned around to the statue awaiting her, the proud piece of stone looked to be eyeing her as he stood patiently for his antlers to return. Penni blinked, a little intimidated by the much taller man before her as she wondered exactly how-

As two strong hands suddenly grasped her sides Penni felt her weight leave her as she was picked up, her claws gripped the antlers tightly as she was pulled up off the ground and over, quickly finding herself resting on the shoulders of the man she cared for the most.

"This any better?" His question a rhetoric one as Brandarr walked himself to the effigy, keeping his hands firmly locked onto the dragon as Penni inserted the antlers into his head, carefully so, tentative for the sculpture of their deity as the rock slid into the sockets.

Brandarr took a step back for her to let her admire her work, perfectly placed as the memorial seemed to shine the open sunlight, looking happy and appreciative for her effort. She couldn't help herself from giggling and clapping her hands in delight at the image she helped to finish.

Far off from the side, a bard suddenly plucked a strong as he began to sing a tale, of Floreta and Dedra, of how he turns the season around, and so she changes her gown, and their beautiful dance goes on and on. The passion he sang with, the feeling...it moved her to the point of weeping tears of cheer, the dragon hugging Brandarr's head as she felt blessed by these lovely people, of this one human who's kindness led her to this land of salvation, and let her become one of her own.

As Penni stayed her days in the village, she forced herself to be attentive towards every word Brandarr taught her when it comes to the art of battle. Not just how to fight, but how to utilize all the weapons one could have at their disposal. Sure, a sword was easy for her to learn, with her smaller frame a small oval shield and their usual short sword fit her finer than the long shaft of a spear, but she still followed the lessons of the spear. Taking his lectures seriously she learned all there was about the polearm, from how to pierce, block, strafe and strike, Brandarr taught with the skills of a master as he let her personally train with him.

Such as with the difference between darts, javelins and throwing spears: Darts, being very small and light, were only useful against largely unarmored foes, and though they break easily, they are quick to make, and many could be carried by one person. Javelins, being bigger, hit much harder, and a good number can be carried by one person, better suited for armored foes. Throwing spears are the largest and longest, and heavier as they have a bronze butt to balance the head, but hit the hardest. With their heads bigger than javelins, utilising a leaf-shape for the blade, can skewer a man even through thick armor.

But there were also days she had to sit back and watch him train the others, being the most unused, and truthfully, unskilled of the lot so far, she had to look and learn when the sparring got serious.

So sitting on a boulder, Penni sat across the width of a rock as she looked to the near distance, where in a bare-chest Brandarr was standing tall and proud with his feet on the grass. Even from a distance, Penni still took a liking to eyeing up and down him; besides a few scars, his chest was mostly bare, surprisingly few hairs on his chest. Even on his face, he was clean-shaven, youthful despite his strength. It was fascinating to the dragon, seeing all the other men that surrounded the shirtless Champion, compared to the warriors who almost all sported long mustaches, Dres even going so far as to his long hairs braided. It all added to how different he looked.

But nothing compared to how different he fought, as with a simple nod, the warriors that surrounded him, the men and women fighters of the tribe that had formed a circle with him at their center, instantly charged at their Champion, all of their hands reached forwards like a swarm to grab him; so Brandarr instantly reacted in kind - as one man twice his size tried to tackle him, Brandarr dodged his grab effortlessly, striding by his side to grab the opponent instead and using the large mans momentum he threw him away without a second thought. As another one warrior came to his size, the Champion simply sidestepped away and tripped him up, while another warrior came up from the front, Brandaar easily ducked out her grab and threw her over his shoulder by her legs. They kept coming, but Brandarr made a dance out of their strikes, not one among them managing to pull him downwards as he efficiently dodged and threw every assailant.

And all the while, the whole group was laughing like idiots, their fight teetering on training and play as they were having fun with this brawl of there's. Even those that are still lying defeated on the ground were grinning ear to ear, howling with glee as the Champion was left the only one yet to fall.

Grinning, Penni got off her rock and strode to him, standing up to him with a firm position of her own. "That was pretty good. But, can you handle a dragon?" A good few the warriors backed off at her question, snickering under their breaths as they made some space for the two. Amused they were, they were also unnerved at the prospect of those two fighting. Save for Brandarr, who only grinned at her challenge.

Smiling a knowing expression, Brandarr pulled out his hands to her. "Don't worry, I'll go soft on you. I do not wish to hurt a dragon." Penni only smirked at his underestimated words, as quickly, the Pokemon dropped to her fours, growling as she tensed up her muscles, lifting her backside up as she readied herself.

Then she lunged, her jump to him so fast and sudden he had little time to prepare for the sudden onslaught that was the dragon, as it took only an instant for the Charmeleon to slam herself full-force into the Champion, her lunge having resulted in him being blown off his feet by the might of the dragon as they both tumbled down to the grass, rolling over the green.

When they managed to stop, Brandarr blinking up the bright sky as he laid down on his back, a heavy warm weight on his shirtless chest, he suddenly laughed when he regained himself. Penni came into his field of vision as she wore a devilish smirk over her face. "It seems," she trailed a finger over his torso, "that you in fact; could not."

Brandarr smirked back, lightly grabbing the Pokemon by her sides as the two stared longingly at one another-

Then he promptly threw her away, quickly jumping back onto his two feet as he prepared another stance, tensing his muscles as he grinned down to the Pokemon.

"Right then." He waved for the dragon to come to her. "See if you can try that again?"

It was the early hours of the morning, so young into the day the sun had barely risen over the mountains, yet the Charmeleon still managed to wake from her slumber. It was not the light of Copernica's existence that had woken her up, nor was it the incoherent ramblings of the still asleep human laying in his own bed by her side, but instead the soft noise of chanting that aroused her from her bed.

Yawning as she stood up from the warm embrace of the bed the dazed dragon walked out the hut, though stunned by her forced awakening, the soft choir of people singing no less intrigued her. To her surprise, very few, if any others were out their huts at this hour, all still seemingly sound asleep in their homes as the tired female tracked the origins of the song with her ears, picking up the placement of the source as she weaved around the huts with intent.

It was off in the bare stretch of the nearby plain did Penni come across the makers of the melody; the Wise Ones, the group of robed individuals facing away from her as they stared out to the oncoming dawn, as if their words were calling for the sun to rise over the mountains.

They stopped upon noticing they had an audience behind them, the group spun around to see the form of a confused Penni watching them.

"And a fine morning to you." The sentence was spoken by Rhiannus as she pulled back her robe, ushering the dragon to come sit beside her.

The dragon sat down as requested, resting herself by the Wise One as she listened to their continued chanting, now just a quiet hum as Penni watched the group sing their tune - and for the first time she noticed a different Pokemon among them.

With a coat as white as Winter snow, and a horn shaped like the early moon, the Charmeleon could see they had an Absol among them. The farthest one away from her, in fact, as it looked out to the far distance.

"There is an Absol with you?" She said, astonished. "I thought humans feared them."

"The lame fear them for bringing forth great tragedies. What the ill of mind don't realize is that her species have a gift in touching the Otherworld, and able to see and hear into the far future." As Penni looked to her she noticed the design of her torc, while also gold, had laden in gems of clear crystal. "She is our Vate, and our tribe comes to her to seek her guidance. As with her gift she could tell us when not to plant a crop, or when not to put down our weapons for an oncoming tide of battle. She was once an outcast, chased and hounded by others, but we have let her become one of our own, as our Seer." The Absol sat unmoved, not even bothering to turn her head at the mention of herself, like a cold statue she only looked on forward, enigmatic without fault. The fire-type heard Rhiannus mention her being hunted, giving her thought to wonder of her own story...

"Hey, Penni!" A sudden call of a childish voice shouted out from behind her. "Wanna come play!" It was three of the tribe's younger folk, the little ones already up early and energetic for the long day to come. Penni felt a nudge by her side, the old woman urging her to go to them with a smile, so with a nod she left to join them, Rhiannus watching them go with a smile at seeing the dragon play with the tykes, her aged heart swelling at the sight.

But, as she made a turn around with her head, her face sunken at seeing the Absol look back with a stoic expression written across her face. "What is it you have seen?"

"Dark tidings are coming; a consuming fire, a clash of steel." She spoke without emotion, her words brief, but the message they carried held warned tidings to the Wise Ones.

Down along the nearby river two characters could be found being busy with their joyful life. One was lying on her belly, her jaw resting on her hands while she idly kicked her legs, letting her tail sway back and forth as she relaxed on the grassy floor.

The other one, meanwhile, was standing shirtless on a rock over the river, short spear in the hand that had his arm raised as he stood as still as the stones along the watercourse. With his muscles tensed while he waited without speaking a word, the Charmeleon couldn't help but admire his form; only now noticing the small details over males:

The tufts of hair under the arms, the way the sweat glides down his brow, the curve of his biceps when they bulge out from under the skin. She never knew until now how human males can be...so darn alluring. Or at least, Brandarr could be so alluring. He was far more beautiful than any other male here, she was sure of.

The male in question was meanwhile unaware of the stares he was being given as his focus was entirely on the stream, his eyes glued onto the river with complete attention…

Then he struck, in one full move Brandarr threw his spear into the stream like a dart his speed too fast for her relaxed mind to see as only a light splash resounded from the action. He pulled at the line's harpoon to grab it out the water, letting the Charmeleon see his prize in the sunlight.

Yet the man did not bask in his reward, rather he closed his eyes, and silently prayed for the spirit of the fish, thanking it for shortly soon to be part of the tribe's meal.

The Charmeleon watched it all happen with delight, staying silent as he pricked the dead creature of his spear and repeated his actions like before. She could ask to join him, but she'd rather just sit back and watch, for now.

When Brandarr had collected enough, and the Champion had let the dragon ride on his back, he started a fire, grilling a few extra fish for them both as that sat side by side. As the fish still had time to cook, Penni thought it best to ask him something inquired to her mind, for at least to not be steeped in bland silence:

"Brandarr, why do you pray after every kill?"

"Because each and every living thing, from the tiniest blade of grass to the mightiest Wailord has a unit of worth." He answered without even needing to look her way. "All lives have meaning, all are precious, and none should be taken lightly, or greedily. We teach to never take me then you need, and to always give back, when you can; such as when we plant fruit trees over the bodies of the dead to nourish the plant and soul. It is a lesson we teach to our children, and hope they do to their own, in time." She looked away, off to the side as she watched the children of the tribe play and laugh, enjoying their carefree life without pain or hassle, as opposed to when they would flee on the sight of herself…

A pat on her head brought her out of her idle daze, the human seated beside rubbed her head roughly to get her own attention. "What's eating you up?" He asked, a semi-serious look worn on his face.

"I'm just remembering..." She brushed her face with her claw. "Thinking, when before I met you, I once saw some children playing in a field in a village. When I came to approach them, just to see if they would play with me, their parents screamed suddenly, dragging their children away to sound the alarm." A few tears began to roll down her cheeks while she never stopped speaking. "I'd NEVER hurt a child, why would they...would they even think that?" She bubbled out. "I wasn't even a Charmeleon back then, how could I even be so dangerous I...I just...don't get it..."

The strong of the arms Champion wrapped around her as she was pulled into a strong hug. "I'm sorry," his words solemn, "I cannot tell you why that happened to you, as I do not understand the minds of those others. Pokemon are brothers and sisters to humans, they helped us when we were so young and innocent. I cannot fathom why they would think the ones that aided us fledgling humans would be the ones that would end their demise." Sniffling away, the Charmeleon wiped at her tears as she began to hate the thought of just being weak, being coddled into wishing for only the good to come to her, and not earned.

"It don't matter now." She moved off from the hug, still wiping away at her face as she demanded her face be clean. "What matters now, is that I have a happy life here, one where I am wanted to protect others, and most importantly, one where I am safe, where I never have to be sad ever again."

Mucking about in this tranquil time, the warriors of this tribe were doing very little when it comes to actively pursuing a protective atmosphere, rather they seemed more focused on laying about.

Or in the case of a few of the men, engaging in a belching contest, the band of merry gentlemen letting out their spewing of pent-up gas, in dossing cheer in their attempts to outdo each other. But it wasn't just males that were in this contest as when all three let out their own belch Penni, the revered dragon of the tribe, tried her best to join in - but only to managing to let a gargle of noise arise from her throat.

All three laughed at her attempt, the fire-type feeling a little abashed by her pathetic try at this contest, as one of the men mocked her lousy effort. Fortunately for Penni, this warrior's mockery was within earshot of Lyda, who upon noticing this call of derision quietly crept behind him to pull him into a grapple by his neck and ruffle his hair with her knuckle, demanding he apology to her fellow lady.

All seemed well, within the tribe, as they laughed and sparred, or just playing around, as such with Dres who was letting the children dangle in the air as they hung onto his arm, and Brandarr could watch the rollicking atmosphere with a small smile on his face, the cheer getting to even him as he saw it right everything seemed right with the world…

Something peaked into his nostrils, his nose picking up on a familiar scent, scanning around himself, he saw no origin of the source, none cooking any kind of meal, so he tracked the wind, noting where the scent came in strongest as his focus was on the far distance, and peering his eyes he looked across the land to see a tower of black clouds arising from across the river and forest, an area Brandarr knew of very well.

And it gave him rise to call out the singular: "Smoke!"

Within only a few moments, the tranquil atmosphere had been completely drained as the warriors began to get ready, letting the civilians leave the area to warn the Chieftainess as they grabbed their shield and spears, save for the sole dragon who grew concerned over what was happening, despite quickly catching up on the serious pressure that was forming among them.

Quickly, she too rushed for the spears, grabbing one by the pole to readied herself - but a sharp weight on her weapon forced her to look up and see the glare of the Champion as he held still her polearm, making unable to leave. "You, will stay." He demanded. "We cannot let you into such danger without knowing what is wrong." He pulled the spear free from her, making a sharp turn away but the Pokemon made no attempt to stay obedient to him, grabbing his leg to hold him still.

"There's in to time to argue-"

"No, there isn't, so why is there time to leave me behind?" She barked back, even when he kicked his leg free she held to his gaze. "I told you I am not here to be placed freely upon a podium, I wish to join and fight alongside you. I want to stay to repay back my life-debt, to protect those that have protected me. What point is holding to that claim, when my only purpose is to stand around and pretend I am only earning my worth?" Other warriors began to take note of Penni's questioning, even the Chieftainess when she arrived upon her chariot.

"You could die, Penni-"

"And I would gladly give up my life, if it meant helping to keep this tribe, and it's people, safe." She snorted out in anger, even towards the man who saved her, she would not stay docile.

"She knows the risks, Brandarr." The Chieftainess piped up, surprisingly calm during this even for her. "And you know her purpose is only her own, not one for you to decide." The Champion opened his mouth as if ready to protest, but not a word came as the leader of the tribe's words made sure he couldn't bite back. Relenting, he held back out the spear for the dragon to take, the dragon holding it graciously.

"But...she must agree to ride in the chariot. She is still new to battle, and has not truly fought alongside her comrades, so she should at least be part of the rear guard." Both the humans looked down to the Charmeleon, though surprised by this notion, but she too relented to the leader's words, as she bowed her head.

"I shall. Thank you."

Within mere minutes the men and women who protect this tribe were already on their way down the hills and plains as they charged together, not a single smile among them as they all looked ready for whatever may appear. Even sitting upon the chariot next to her leader, she felt no ease of what was happening, barely able to think of what might be wrong, and now, with how everyone was acting, how serious they were , she simply hoped there was no real tragedy waiting for her.

The reality was far worse than she could have imagined.

When they got to the source, she discovered it was a village they were after, one not too unlike her own, but one far from the happy condition she so loved about it. Houses were in flames, those that weren't had already burnt down, the stench of ash and blood flooded her nose as all around she could see the devastation that befall this village; scattered all around the ground were the bodies of the fallen, of men and woman, Pokemon dropped with arrows embedded into their flesh, not a single living among them

They began to search, but any attempt to find survivors turned up with empty hands. Penni's heart sank at the sight, searching around left her in a deeper state of anguish with every step. There was no cheer to be heard, no laughter of joy just...silence broken only by the burning of homes. She continued onward, in the hopes, any hopes this wasn't a complete slaughter. However, all she found were more corpses, more bodies of innocent, such as with a Mightyena, riddled with arrows as it tried to protect its owner, a woman with a spear running through her back and out the front where it seemed to have also impaled-

She wanted to vomit, to cry and scream, to yell at the Gods for making her see the body of a baby held tightly in this mother's arms, the spear that killed them both sticking out as it pinned them both to the ground, not even a miracle could have saved them. The steps she took backward out of fear nearly had her trip and fall if not for wall she hit, the dragon barely seeing this as her eyes were glued to the two corpses laid out on the cold grass.

"Who..." She croaked for stuttering breaths. "Who were these people?"

"They were the Silruti." Penni's eyes managed to break free from the detestable sight she was allowed to witness to look to the face of Brandarr staring back. His eyes held no glimmer, and his face only showed melancholic thought as his voice came out as monotone as she thought a man like him could do. "They were not like our tribe, but we kept on friendly terms, even trading with them on occasions." He took his own focus away from to stare out to the rest of the village, seeing not just the fallen bodies of the dead, but also of his own tribe, where the warriors reacted to all this with vocal and physical disgust. Some had tears streaming down his face, others howled out screams of anguish. Even Dres, the biggest man she knew was reduced to a bawling sight at the reaction to the fallen innocence. Though he scowled, he could only cry at what he was witnessing.

Brandarr marched on, refusing to falter at the sight of the slaughter, and began to search, ignoring the desecrated around him as he looked onward. He knew the Silruti wll; they were a peaceful tribe, but one that couldn't hold their own at all against others, so he could summarise this was not likely the work of an rival tribe. More to it, they lived much lower, in less rocky terrain, so they were an easy target...likely one of opportunity. A sacking? If so, why does nothing look stolen, the monsters who made this having taken only lives here.

Bending down, Brandarr studied the tracks over the mud, inspecting the soil with thought. These did not look like hoofprints of the Silruti, or any other nearby tribe's. The shoes were too angular at the tips. Something else managed to catch his eye, as Brandaar picked it up, the spiked small blade told him more than enough about the cause.

"Was it bandits?" Bardeia noted, searching around the decimated village with both fear and disgust, the woman standing atop the chariot as she looked higher than others, but saw little else more.

"I don't think so. Take a look." The Champion caught her attention long enough for him to throw the damaged piece over to the Chieftainess, who caught it with ease. Inspecting it herself she looked over the metal with interest. "What is this? Looks like part of a spur?"

"No tribe I know of would ever dare use this on their rides. The only ones I can imagine are those who care little for their brethren."

"Outlanders." She spat out the word like it was bile. "Warriors are meant to adhere to a code of honor and conduct they must follow. There is no honor in the slaughter of those who cannot fight back, human or otherwise."

"Then I saw we show them just as much mercy." A warrior suddenly demanded to his leader, anger laden strongly within his tone. "This is the epitome of cowardice, why should there demise be any less unforgiving?" His question had given rise to more nearby men and women, within a few seconds chants were being cursed out, talks about invading the invaders by those not already beating their chests in fury. Bardeia listened to their pleas, of good intention it was, the hate being spouted was graining to her ears.

Slamming her foot down on the chariot, the two equines that drove her ride both made a loud call just as she blare at the lot of them "Doing so would only incur another attack, this time on us!" Her shout ceased the roars of anguished reasoning. "No matter what we try, all that would do is spur the enemy onto our people. For now, the best we need to do is warn the other tribes of this, along with setting up patrols. We need all of you knuckle-heads to keep you heads on your shoulders if we want to stop another needless slaughter like this."

"Agreed." The voice of Brandarr called out. "This is just the start. We have been hearing more tales of this lately, so we should see it best to prepare for war, not initiate it." Both of the human's words seemed to resonate gradually with the rest of the warriors, nods of approval began to surely occur as they all agreed to this.

Penni watched and listened to it all, but it didn't help with the sight right in front of her. Were they Dragon-Hunters or not, she saw little reasoning behind this all. The act of hunting and killing is not a simple act on its own, but for killing those who do not live like them, those that worship other gods, and not simply the one divine being Arceus alone.

It made her sick to her stomach.

The way back was not any less unpleasant, as if all the energy had been stolen from them from what they had to bare to look around at, the group trekked backed with heavy hearts. The great tragedy they had witnessed filled them with malice and hate, but weighing above these emotions of detestment was a deep mourning, fellow tribesman that they held a steady relationship with had all been slaughtered in the matter of less than a day.

By the time they gotten back, the rest of the tribe scared for the picture that was written on their faces, it was carried to those that could force themselves to speak up told the tribe of what they found, and those very few that held themselves together long enough to stay standing, including both their Champion and Chieftainess, had left the village to warn the neighboring tribes.

Penni was not one among those, however, she too distraught to move outside the village, the terrors that were permanently engraved into her very skull left her to see this settlement as but a gilded cage, one she wanted to stay inside of, the outside world looking like a swamp through the bars were there was no escape from, so she could feel to do was sit still upon the ground and stare at the open world with broken focus.

Her state was not lost on those that enjoyed her presence, and though the adults knew to leave her be, from had been gathered they would not demand their warrior to speak more, the children only saw their friend being down, not understanding the horrors that had been witnessed by them all. As such with one of the little tykes, who was slowly inching forward from behind the unattentive dragon as he called out her name.

Spinning on the spot the Pokemon looked to the child with surprise, this the first emotion expressed on her face after first returning back to the village besides regret. The toddler held out his arms for her, and the disorientated dragon managed to regain enough of her senses to react back, grabbing the tiny being in her arms and bringing him close to herself. The pit of despair that she had been falling into, a bottomless well that dragged her down with invisible chains, was slightly lifted upon this little bundle of joy being hugged in her arms, a push back up by the laughing child, if only somewhat.

To her shock, the cheerful toddler suddenly kissed her cheek, the tiny innocent action by the little one somehow rusted most of the chains that were binding her down, and she could finally look around herself with actual attentive focus. No cage, no well, just this land, and the beautiful people that resided in it.

He was not the only juvenile that was happy in this place, all the children of the tribe were out and about playing, not a single one having seen the horrors she has faced, and not a single one deserved too. Tears were starting to stain her cheeks at the thought of such atrocities acting here; the image of the dead child held in its mother's arms could never be unseen, and the sudden image of the toddler in her arms having such a action taken upon him in the same manner as the one before came as shortly as it went nearly made her heart jump at the thought. Hugging the child a little more tightly, she thought about how she would do anything for the children, for all the humans and Pokemon of this tribe that she needed to protect. Those Dragon-Hunters, who showed no mercy to the Silruti, could very well show none to the people of here, and that...that made her blood boil. Rage was overtaking her mind, and she knew that she would never hold back upon any who dared to ruin this family of hers.

While Brandarr tried to stay with Penni as much as time could allow, he knew he couldn't stay alongside her forever, and reluctantly left her be on her bed to cuddle by herself as he went to a meeting of the warriors.

He listened quietly, Bardeia telling the men and women of the plan of action. He did not butt in nor speak out, only settling on his seat to hear her words, but those that would have paid attention to him would be sure he could barely even register the outside world, for he was thinking on only the complete annihilation of those that share no grace.

His eyes glittered with inhuman lights, his muscled tense as his whole being rippled to battle, nearing to burst as all he wanted to do now was find them and show them little clemency. It was his duty to defend the people and lands, his home and his people's fellow tribesmen, and the world be damned if the Outlanders will go unpunished for their crimes. He knew he must, as it will only get worse if nothing is done.

As Bardeia was finishing her speech, whether it was by chance or by some divine interference, a member of the tribe came rushing into the meeting, panting heavily as he was drenched in sweat, but through ragged breaths he managed to explain himself.

He spoke of how the Wise Ones had been talked to by the friendly Noctowls and Murkrows, their flying brethren have come fluttering to the Dewa to note they have seen Outlanders near the outermost border. More so, they heard the enemies speak; of trying to find out where the "Serpent" was hiding in this land.

The words of this served to spur the warriors on further, all among them knew they'd rather lay down their lives than sell out their newest friend. Immediately, all the warriors began to take up arms, the fight that was waiting for them was inevitable to them now, all ready to rage war on these bastards, and none more so than their Champion, he too brandishing his sacred spear with deadly intent as he was ready to depart - but not until he turned around to his commander fro what may be his final time.

"Take care of Penni, if I never make it back." His request almost demanding to the Chieftainess as he thought more over his words. "If this be the time I am cut short, then tell her I will be waiting for her, on the Otherside." She understood, wishing for the best for all, and hoping the ensuring right that will happen will not be the eventual demise of this tribe she had been put in charge of for so long.

Hours have passed for Penni, and every second was wrought with grief and anxiety. They had left, left her here as they went off to wage their lives for their beliefs and convictions. She could not rest, not settle down at all as she refused to eat, drink, or even seat herself down, only needing to stare away into the far distance until a moment caught her eyes, the world around her obscured by the hills and trees, leaving her with no action but to patrol around with the very few capable fighters that were given orders to stay in case they never came back, some among those were just children old enough to fight.

Dusk was settling soon, the darkness slowly creeping but the Charmeleon would not let it disturb her as she kept to a still watch, staying slow and methodical while her patience was wearing thin. It was only when seeing movement on the horizon that gave her the thought that she could do more than just wait - ready for whichever outcome may occur.

It was to what she figured a mere miracle that it the first image she saw coming into the clearing was the chariot of her Chieftainess, the mighty steeds pulling her gave her a feeling of relief as she ran down to meet them.

Or what was left of them, as they continued to march to the village, ignoring the sight of their revered dragon, the Charmeleon's relief at their living state began to fade when she noticed fewer numbers of the warriors then usual, the few that were here looked none too cheerful of their continued life, but even those were not the one that mattered the most to her.

"Brandarr?" She started to call, darting by all the warriors as she studied the faces of everyone, none with the youthful complexion of her favorite human, with the cheer and grandeur that he could forever march on with. Her next calls offered her no response, so scared she rushed back to the chariot as she demanded from the Chieftainess to tell her where he was.

"Last I saw him, he was perfectly fine." She answered, her words sunken as she eyed only forward, paying little attention to either the dragon or the gathering crowd of her as her mind only contemplated what happened. "He decided to continue his patrol alone while the rest of us made a return home, so those alive can rest, and those that aren't...well." She pointed off to a cart, where inside Penni could see the limp limbs of her people sticking out from underneath cloaks, the unmoving bodies lying completely still. "They can at least rest for eternity now."

The dragon made her way over to the cart, approaching the mass of bodies with deep sorrow as she made a claw over to reach the cloaks - but a hand stopped her short, the Chieftainess holding her claw still while the woman held a heavy gaze onto the fire-type.

"I wish to say goodbye to my friends. Could I at least have that?" Reluctantly, she let go after a single silent moment, leaving her be to meet for the final time with these fellow warriors. Penni pulled the cloak back, choking at the sight of the dead right in front of her, tears were dripping down her cheeks as she looked to the familiar bodies of the dead.

"Lyda...no..." With skin so pale it was white, and her eyes forever opened slits, the limp form of her fellow female lied under the shadows of the cloaks, a look of anger adorning the dead woman's face giving the dragon some comfort she didn't die pathetically, but even that didn't make it easy for her to believe it was her lying here, a braid somehow missing from her once elegant face as if she could no longer be allowed to be buried in full like a hero deserves. Even Dres, the giant that looked as strong as ten whole men, was reduced to nothing more than the bottom base of this pile, missing his torc, like all the others of theirs.

"At least they didn't outrage her." The words of comfort came from the form of Rhiannus, the elderly had her hood down as she held an expression as desolate of the dragon's. The Wise One wrapped her arms around her younger friend to give her some physical amenity from this as Penni instantly wrapped her own arms round the woman's waist, sobbing into her robe as the cart continued forward.

"They died fighting. Can't ask for a better way to go." The solemn words of the Chieftainess provided little aid to the crying one, of what good life she was starting to enjoy was slowly crashing down upon her, of what good friends she made dying so suddenly and unjustly.

She despised her very life.

She refused to sleep, even when the sun had fully set, she sat attentively by the front road of the tribe and stared blankly out. None demanded she move, each and every one that saw her knew her reason why, and even as the cold started to set in, her hunger and thirst getting to her, she did not budge from her seat, her spear in hand as she waited for him to come, with only the fires of the tribe's torches and the light glinted off the moon and stars let her keep watch.

Not even Bardeia tried to disturb her, offering, and then draping a blanket around her form when she refused to even speak back. The Chieftainess said little extra words to the small dragon before she left, letting her keep her concentration only forward, and only stating she is welcome in her hut should she want to.

Minutes went by like hours to her as she stayed where she sat, unmoving, and saying little up until she finally saw movement coming through the nightly mist. She readied her spear, but her sharp glare soon turned soft as she quickly noticed who exactly it was coming into the village, the hum of his spear telling her enough before she even saw his face.

She ran to him, dropping her weapon as she was ready to welcome him with open arms, but her dash began to slow as the more detail she could see of him, the more her fears began to grow.

Despite the smirk he tried to wear, he looked none too elated. Blood seeped down his clothes, torn apart from the battles he had undertaken, and the sketches of skin she could see from him nearly made her scream in shock. Cuts almost to the bone, one wound so grievous she could see the pink organs through the wound. His walk was tepid, practically dragging one foot forward over the dirt, the single severed head of a slain enemy tied to his belt was bouncing on his thigh as he stumbled forward.

She could see the pain he tried to hide after every step he took, each kick of his legs made him look ready to fall, and the Charmeleon darting forward before he reach the floor, grabbing him quickly before he completely dropped - and screamed out his name for help as he laid limp in her arms, completely limp even though he continued to exhale quiet breath.

The Wise Ones came to her call, for the first time wearing robes of purest white as they gathered him in their arms and carefully carried his body back to a healing house as they went to work.

While she stood back, knowing better than to interfere with the Dewa, she still watched with great concern as they treated him, but his wounds as serious as they were, she had to grab onto the little hope left in her heart on believing he will survive this.

Yet upon seeing how the Wise Ones healed those small thoughts of well-meaning began to grow, if even by a just a smidgen, as they wasted no time in deciphering his wounds and the process of healing: She listened to them speak, deducing how many of his injuries were gotten by cowardly means; they encircled him and attacked from behind, and this cowardly action made her see red, furious now along with worry. The thought of them circling him like Murkrow made her growl.

But she kept on watching, listening to them and calling for equipment as they pressed forward unrelenting, using a strange plant to send him to a painless sleep, using boiling water and alcohol to wash his wound, using slaves and stitches on his cuts before wrapping them in cloth so white it shocked her - this magic would have amazed her, if not for the underlying fear of this not being enough.

By the time the Wise Ones have finished their healing, they left him be, though he wasn't dead, there was nothing more than they could do for him now but let him rest, and leave him be with Penni, who refused to move away from his side.

"You shouldn't have done all this for me." She cried into his blanket as she sat by his bedside. "It was me they were after, wasn't it? It was the Dragon-Hunters who did this, they have come to finish the job." She sniffed pathetically. "I'm not worth it, I'm not worth you getting hurt so poorly, I'm not worth the lives lost for me sake. I'm just a lowly dragon that can't even fly, why would anyone go to such lengths to keep me safe? Why would anyone...slaughter people so mercilessly?" She suddenly growled under her tone.

"Why do I matter so much to them? What thought is murder to the innocent in the name of some idea of good? There is no justification in killing people just to aim for me, there is no honest cause there, just selfish ideals." A sudden power began to course through the Charmeleon, a new flame that grew from a tiny spark. "I won't run away anymore. I cannot. For these people, I will fight to keep them safe. They are my family, and I would do anything it takes to keep them safe." A feeling of strength ran through her like lightning as she spoke of bile, the Pokemon suddenly rose her face from the blanket as she screamed out to the open air "You hear that, Dragon-Hunters! You will pay for what you've done, the lives you have scarred, and killed! I promise on my life that no matter what, I will hunt you down myself and show you, the mercy, that you have unjustly shown my FRIENDS!" A final tear dripped down her cheeks during her yell, the tiny droplet hung off the Pokemon's chin before it dropped down, hitting the humans hands on the fall as it remained motionless to the tear, but the final shed of the droplet was enough for the Pokemon as she felt the energy insides herself rise, make her feel strong, powerful...ready.

Then she began to glow.

It was the time of dawn, and all was seemingly quiet throughout the land. With the battle subsided, for now, it was in a silent state, especially in the more barren areas. Yet, this land was not still, as a figure was on the move, one that made a shadow across the ground as she made a glide down towards a certain spot, the feet of hers slammed into the dirt as she surveyed the area. She could see a battle had taken place here not too long ago, the bodies of the dead still scattered around, the splatter of blood only stayed when on the stone as she looked over the bodies.

The armor they wore looked to be something she was already familiar with; the shape, the designs, even the weapons they had dropped from their lifeless hands. She knew who they were, and she was happy that even after trying to use dirty tricks upon him, he still decimated the group. From what she could gather, he ripped out their limbs in the places their expensive armor couldn't protect from, smashed one's helmeted head against a rock, and a lone soldier, away from the others, was missing a head on his shoulders.

The flying-types flew above her, calling out her name as they spoke of more on the move, a patrol of the armored men were making their way down the roads, and if they stayed on the course, their next target may very well be the tribe of Monari. Snorting in anger, she gripped her weapon tightly before taking flight, scaring the friendly Pokemon by her sudden jump as she quickly ascended from the ravaged battlefield and made her way towards her foes.

In the distance, a group of heavily fortified soldiers were trudging done the path, on steeds of Rapidash and Zebristrika, led by a captain, following in the rear with a pair of Mudsdale carrying a cart loaded with a giant crossbow, a group of armored men march on with malicious intent. They knew their mission, they knew of one dragon hidden in these lands and they knew to kill all who refused to help them. For in Arceus's name, it is they who shall prevail.

With a hold of his hand the captain halted their trek, the soldiers halting on command as he looked all around himself. None but he witnessed the moving shadow, a body of darkness that swam through the air just off his focused eyes as he searched around himself. This was foreign land, copiously filled with savages, but also unknown to them, so the dangers they may face they knew nothing of could only be left to guessing.

But they weren't prepared for any outcome, certainly not the sudden sound of a bone-chilling roar, a deep powerful cry that resounded off across the plains and through the deeply wooded forests, all the men, noble that they saw themselves, all shivered at the noise, their rides spooked just as much as they forced the Pokemon to calm down. Then it all became silent, besides the scattering of the flying-types that scampered in groups off the branches of the trees and to someplace else, no more noise was made as only silence reigned.

So from behind, a shadow loomed over the group as it flew over their heads and startled the riders as the winged shape darted through the formation and towards their front, taking form up above as the men dared to look up to this new presence that loomed over them - only to shield their eyes in pain as the shadow stood before the sun, the men shouting in confusion as they tried to see what it was. The captain was the first to be able to spot what it was that graced their presence -

And gasp at what was before them.

Despite being bathed in an orange glow he could instantly see what the silhouette looked to be; larger than a man, with horns sticking out the head attached to its long neck, with wings that cracked in sharp lines and a tail always alight with a burning flame the creature looked to the men with a piercing gaze, it's blue eyes pointed dangerously to them, as cobalt as the sea yet held the savagery as the winter storm. But what seemed to shock them the most was the spear it was carrying; a delicately engraved blade as long as a sword, the weapon was no mere primitive polearm but a mighty spear belonging more to a myth than reality - one that she knew how to wield with precision.

"Dragon!" The captain ushered his command, as be it armed or not, it was still a creature needing for an extinction, and he'd be damned if he was going to be beaten by a lowlife monster that acted like it knew how to be one of them. "Load the crossbow!" He ordered the cart for the men to begin loading their siege weapon. Unhooking the Mudsdale-drawn vehicle from the Pokemon the soldiers were quickly preparing the giant crossbow, yet the glaring dragon had already understood the situation, before they even realized her presence she had surveyed the situation beforehand - and she knew her first target, reeling her arm back, the spear in her claw made only a light hum as she aimed her weapon well, and threw.

None of the men knew what happened from the mere seconds after, as within the span of a singular moment, a loud thunder erupted over the land as the giant dragon-killing weapon they coveted exploded into splintered shards, the entire platoon of soldiers looked in shock to the cart, with the dust quickly settling all that was left was broken wood and torn limbs of the fallen men that tried to load it.

There gawking didn't go unpunished, as one of the shocked men never realized the shadow coming quickly forth to him, his whole body lunging back as a powerful force ripped him off his Mudsdale steed, the dragon beat her wings to descend down and grab her polearm sticking out from the molten rocks before lifting them both up, holding the man by his head as he struggled to break free, but the dragon forced him to stare at only her angered face as she stared down her foe with a deadly gaze, showing the man only cruel reason in her eyes.

She reared open her mouth, the unfortunate soldier watching in horror as a bright gleam of red and yellow being to surge from inside her jaw - the last thing he saw before a torrent of flame erupted from her mouth and blasted into his visor. He screamed in peril as he was cooked inside his own armor, the metal glowing bright crimson as the other soldier watched in panic. And like she was dealing with trash, the dragon threw the dying man away almost casually so, not caring for him any longer as he was unceremoniously dropped into a nearby pond, the water instantly boiling right after, the soldier never to rise from it.

"Don't just stand around! Kill that Arceus-forsaken thing!" Another booming command from their leader, this hateful one almost attacking his own men as he demanded they do as he said. Hastily, his soldiers began to rally themselves with their longbows preparing to aim and shoot, only for her to react first, throwing her spear directly at one man as the polearm ran straight through him with a resounding clap of thunder, resulting in the man immediately blown apart by the mystical force, reduced instantly to nothing but a stain on the ground as the rest of the soldiers stared in horror.

She twitched her finger, and the spear began to vibrate before it was pulled off from the stone, her polearm sailed through the air with an invisible force before she caught it in her claws, already darting over the battlefield as the men began to return fire with their longbows - yet not a single arrow managed to hit her as she quickly dodged and evaded their shots. She could tell these men were not used to their prey fighting back so roughly, nor where they trained in hitting targets as quick as her, so she gave no leeway for them to bite back, seeing them struggle to hit her form.

But evasion was not what she came here only to do, still gripping the Thunder Spear tightly in her grasp, and with a flap of her wings setting her body straight, her arms reached back as she readied the pole weapon, and let her aim fly true to be thrown in an arc.

It was not aimed purely at just a sole soldier, no, this delivery of her polearm managed to tear apart more men that the others could fathom at; the first it cut into exploded with a thunderous roar as his body was blasted into pieces, the spear piercing straight through with nary a care and hitting the second armored foe within only a blink, burning him to a crisp under his armor, the metal glowing hot scarlet from the tocuh, but the spear still remained unstoppable, forcing its weight through his armor and back out the side as it met with its third and final target, simply slicing this man in half as if his plated armor was made from untreated wool.

Not even giving the three freshly-made corpses time to at least be laid onto the ground the dragon flickered her wrist and the spear sailed back into her hand. The soldiers, though falling in numbers, made no attempt to give up the fight as they began to return fire with their arrows. Yet, she held a fire of her very own, and breathing a mighty flame she burnt the arrows in mid-air, leaving only the metal heads left as they bounced harmlessly off her scales, the molten metal reduced to mere blunt shards as the flaming one quickly darted back through the skies, weaving over the land and blasts out waves of flame to burn away incoming projectiles.

Two of the soldiers ducked behind some rocks for cover, letting loose arrows as they hid behind shelter. But what protection they thought they could cowering away from meant little to her as she readied her spear again, with this time her spinning the pole weapon as she threw it; the spear quickly becoming an thundering blade as it slashed through the air, aiming down to the two soldiers, the duo of hidden men having no time to react back as the spear cut right through the rock, and right through their waists as they were split in two, finalizing with the spinning spear arching upwards to return to its users hands.

More of these armored men tried to scour from her like the cowards that they were as the took shelter behind the large rocks, but snorting out a lick of flame from her nostrils, she dived down, flapping her wings as she spun besides the boulders and let loose her flames, melting the rocks along with the men before they had chance to retaliate, their screams only brief before the heat overtook their lives.

An arrow just grazed past, another plated soldier already reloading his bow, but it took just a simple flick of her claws to send her spear to and straight for his head, as instantly all above his neck became decimated with a powerful boom, the dragon let the cherish spear embed itself onto the ground as she scanned the area; they were all gone, be their demise be from turning to ash, cut into two or from becoming little more than a stain on the ground, the only ones that still lived were the Pokemon riders they abandoned, cowering away to not get caught in the firefight.

All the men, that is, except for one; as just within her peripheral vision she could spot a single armored foe trying to escape. She jumped up, using her wings to take flight as she let herself fall downwards - right into the path of this retreating soldier. She could tell he didn't expect her presence right here, him almost jumping out his boots as she suddenly appeared before him, and even in his fancy armor, she could tell he was afraid, all the fight having gone despite him being responsible to usher this fight in the first place.

"Please..." He begged pathetically, unable to stand himself upright as she sized him down. "I call for only mercy. I wish to live, let me run and I will never return here."

"Mercy? To you?" She spat in this human's tongue, the first time she spoke it outside her fellow tribesmen. "You proudly charge into villages, MURDER elders, women . . . children! You laugh with glee at the suffering of others, torment and chase me and my kin, and now, you have the temerity to ask for MERCY?" She walked towards him slowly as she scoffed, letting flames lick her lips while the cowering whelp crawled backwards until he hit the rocks, cornered by this intimidating creature. "Why should I show you Honor, let alone mercy, when you, yourself have never shown it to anyone? Not to the innocent, not to the warriors, not to the elders..." It was here she spotted the article on his belt, a braid that she herself had grown familiar with over the time of her new life. ". . . and not to my friend." The daggered eyes she was drawing to him would kill if that was mortally possible, but the pure murder written on her face still scared the man almost to death by itself as he was shaking in his armor.

"I beg of you; let me leave here alive and I promise to never return to this land again." He pleaded, begging on his knees for her to hear his orison, but though she felt almost sad for him to be reduced to a blubbering mess, she could not forget the lives that have been taken by his name, the reasoning as to why he led a hunt against these hunters.

"And I can assure you; of that shall never happen." Her claw grabbed his shoulder while the dominant appendage grabbed his head, her claws digging into his flesh yet before he could even make a full scream she managed to quickly whisper out "Woe to the vanquished." before tearing his head clean off, the neck split in half as the man became forever silent.

As the lands became silent, she knew of this: the battle was done.

Bran was already awake with the morning light, despite the Wise Ones warnings, he sat up in this bed, unable to fully rest in the bed as his jumbled thoughts pertained to only of one: Penni. She was not here when he awoke, the others spoken that they had not seen her before dawn's rise, even though they said the last they saw of her was breaking down over his near demise.

He worried about her - how could he not, every single of his cuts and wounds was done for her sake, every single man he killed was done in her name, she was part of his tribe, this was undeniable, and he would pledge his life for her, just as much as any other member...maybe even more. He felt a familial connection with the Flame Pokemon, an almost ancestral companionship he couldn't quite explain, almost as if there was a part of himself just like her. Not through true relation, or from an intervention of fate, just her presence made him feel less alone even in this big family of the tribe. He revered the dragons, revered her, more so than another tribesman here...and he felt to disappoint her for coming back in such a state for her to see.

"Oh Penni..." He sighed into his arms as he cuddled up pitifully, feeling barely stronger than a blade of grass, with thoughts of how he failed her. "A thousand pardons couldn't begin to let you know just how sorry I am."

"I think; that she may have already forgiven you, dear Champion." A familiar voice called to her, as to the opening of the building he watched a figure slowly sulk in. Yet despite how similar the voice sounded to him, the one coming into the room was not the body of who he expected; sprouting scales of a light orange instead of deeper crimson, a ferocity in her gaze held back by a soft soul, and wide wings of an ornate blue, this was no mere Charmeleon standing nearby him. "Hey you. You feeling better?" Yet, it was the way she spoke, the resounded tone of a gentle spirit, and even the soft way she looked at him, it all gave him little surprise in knowing who it really was with her standing before him.

"So how long was I asleep, my dearest Penni." He slowly smiled, shocking the Charizard in the process. "You can tell it's still me?" She whispered in astonishment, pulling herself close to him as he held her gaze just as light as hers.

"I can never forget who my friends are, not even when they have changed so suddenly." She couldn't hold herself back anymore, and lurching forward she pressed her forehead onto his as she let the tears finally flow. "Bran, my friend...my love..." She caressed his hair while her other claw grabbed his hand. "It makes me happy to know you are awake and alive. I don't know what would have happened, if I truly lost you..." He hugged her back, knowing this was what she wanted as he took a good look at her friend: She was bigger, stronger, faster, yet all the while she, her mind, soul and understanding had not changed even in the slightest; she was still the same Penni he grew to love.

"I'm guessing I never have to worry about seeing the Dragon-Hunters for a while now, then?" She backed away a little, seeing him focus on the decapitated head of the fallen soldier resting on her belt. Reaching behind, she grasped into her bag and pulled out a handful of torcs for him to see. "I have also retrieved these from our fallen friends. As they have stolen trophies from our friends, I too have taken one in return." As she explained, Brandarr couldn't help but think over those tales of the dragons: They do protect the weak, fighting with courage and force, with honor in spirits. They were guardians in the truest sense of the word, people of scaled skin that fought with ferocity yet always with reason. He was truly glad to have a friend like her.

"Get better. While you rest, let it fall on me to protect this tribe, ALL the tribes, ALL the people, this whole territory would be under my watch until you fully heal, so you need not fear." She kissed his forehead as he believed in every word.

She was back. He was alive. And for today, that was all that mattered to them.

It was in the early months of Spring when the tribe of the Monari began to cheer in celebration, of whistles and calls being yelled by all; for it was today that a special ceremony was taking place.

There have been many weddings that have been taking place in this tribe, but as is a common tradition on these lands, a contract for marriage only lasted until next Spring, but against this was also a Lifetime Marriage, one that lasted until death, a rare occurrence, even in this tribe. However, it wasn't this unusual arrangement of forever partnership that was heralded as a special ceremony.

No, it was because this marriage was the coming together of two of the tribe's most beloved people; their respected Champion, and their revered dragon.

And they were the happiest among all their friends as they walked out the Grand Hall, wide, beaming, almost embarrassed smiles were adorned on both their faces as all the Monari, the Chieftainess, the children, even the enigmatic Wise Ones were lined in rows outside the house as they made entrenching walls for them to walk only forward.

The tribe cheered in glee and exuberance as they walked down the walled path, the two newly married couple, made together forever, as she would have no other, in her life, and he the same, waved back in their ceremonial garb. Loose clothes for him, and a dress of softest fabric for her, a veil covering both sides of her head, letting all to see a shining, bright torc of decorated gold adorned on her lovely long neck, the dragon wearing it with pride, as it was her gift from her assault and subsequent vanquishing of those hunters, and none would deny her her own victory.

But as powerful as they knew her to be, none among them feared her. She was their guardian, their Divine Being, but above all, their friend they were elated for in knowing she was to spend a happy life with their cherished Champion. She was still the sweet, gentle one they held in ardor regard. Even the children held not an inch of concern for being, such as when one of the little ones stepped forward to bring her flowers, though not the only one that threw such beauty of nature upon the couple, it was only him that offered her to take.

Of course she took them all with thoughtful appreciation; not just the bouquet but the tyke himself, the tiny thing glowing with happiness as he hugged and kissed her, the tribe only increasing their cheer as they reveled in purest delight. Sneakily, the Charizard whispered something secret to the kid, the little one nodding in agreement as she took a firm hold of the bouquet.

"Hey you lot," Penni cheered to the ones from behind her, "I declare the one to catch this will be the next to get married!" Before she even gave them a chance to understand what she was shouting the dragon threw the bouquet behind her, the tribespeople all stared at the thrown flowers in shock, given them little time to react as it sailed down to them -

And was caught by none other than their Chieftainess, who grabbed them purely on instinct, the leader looking over the flowers before her in shock as the sentence Penni had just called out began to take understanding with her.

The men that were nearby began to rib her, whistling on friendly mockery as they elbowed her in encouragement. "You darn knuckleheads..." Bardeia grinned, though hiding their face also as she let them have this, just for this special day.

By the front was where Rhiannus herself stood, the Wise One unhooded as she too shared with the others on this day, she spied down to her fellow Dewa, their Absol companion, who only stared at the front with her ever-present stoic complexion. "Tell me, through your gift of grasping the Otherworld, what do you see for the future of these special two?" As she closed her eyes and hummed a singular note, the tribe became practically silent as they waited with bated breath for the prediction by their seer, the so-named Disaster Pokemon focused on her visage of the different realm before she finally opened up her eyes.

Then she smiled. "I can hear the laughter of children in their future." The tribe erupted in thunderous applause, the crowd hooting in delight while the pair of newly wedded people stared longingly at one another. Whatever may come for them in the following years they knew they could get past so long, as they have each other.

Retiring home after their celebratory feast, they knew there was no need to hold back, no need to wish for more but denied by their ways, as finally alone for the first time since becoming newlyweds the two were already aware of what they wanted, and what the other partner wanted as well.

So the Charizard laid herself down on her back over their shared bed, awaiting her human to join as he wasted no time in climbing over her and cuddling her lovingly, Champion and Dragon they may be, but they were lovers above all else when together as the two refused to separate now they were beginning to have a taste for one another, hugging themselves gently to each other as their lips met for the first time in soft touches.

As enthusiastic as the two could be, they were still deep down new to this, so refused to force upon the other anything. Their kisses were tentative, careful though passionate, with their differences in bodies they held back to get used to this feeling, but even though flesh lips met scaled ones, the new feeling was truly ecstatic for them, this sensation too good to resist as they left their mouth on the other while exploring more about the others body. The Dragon gently brushed some hair from his face so as not to obscure his beautiful features, the two managing to make eye contact as he pulled himself closer to her.

Hugging him tightly, she made sure not to hurt him even in the slightest, being supremely gentle as her arms wrapped around his. Despite how rough her scales looked, her body was pillowy soft, the human virtually sinking into her belly, her muscles and scales be damned, she had a softness about her that could only be matched by his dreams.

He wanted to love every part of every inch of her, his kissing moved from her mouth to her face, then down to her neck as he held onto her carefully, leaving gentle pecks down along her neck as the Charizard felt him explore her, desire her. She was not outdone in this regard, however, her claws slowly feeling down his back as her digits pressed into him, melting into his skin as they felt around. She could barely hold back from her claws digging into his clothes, her instincts guiding her to get him bare, she wanted him above all else.

And he let her, seeing how her claws demanded he remove his attire, he moved back for her and began to remove his grab, having no shame in being bare for the one he loves. She has seen his bare chest before, practically used to this by now, yet as he stripped down past his lower garb she realized how little of his lower body she knew she's seen. His thighs were rippled with underlying muscle, though not to an impressive extent, it still made her adore him as she knew his body to be far stronger than any other man. Then he took off his final garb.

Her cheeks somehow felt hotter at seeing him completely naked, this the first time seeing the man's prize in person. Though she would never say to any others, she has had many thoughts about what he would be like nude to her, with the real life version not disappointing in this regard. Thick and heaving, and though now naked before her, he was holding his natural tool ready for her.

She got the message, and turning around she presented herself in full for him, standing on all fours as she raised her tail and let him get a good look at her slit, all in full just for him. With her neck she was able to twist her head around to see him, nodding to him to let him know she was ready to be taken by him, and him alone. He got behind her, getting down on his knees as he aimed himself, and so, with a brief exchange of explaining when they both were ready, he pushed forward, holding onto her backside for support as the Dragon felt herself being penetrated for the first time.

She did not cry or shriek, as she expected herself to do, nor did she feel pain or discomfort, rather even at full hilt, the sensation she was getting, the pulsating feeling of him fully inside almost made her moan; she knew it was meant to be good, but she never expected it to be this delightful: it made her craze for more, made her want to lose herself to him, have him have his way with her.

But he was a gentleman by all accounts of this term, and he would not force himself upon her, even as they were now. She did not mind this from him at all, reaching out to grab his hand and pull his chest onto her, she let him sit on all fours so his body sheltered her from above, his fingers tightly wrapped around her claw as she reached her neck behind so she could kiss his lips.

He began, gyrating his hips into her while keeping his real focus on her true mouth, the warmth of her breath could heat the coldest nights, a soothing sensation on his otherwise aroused senses. She murmured to him, how he feels good and he whispered back ado of how strong her body was clinging to him, tightly yet not vehemently.

She giggled from delight, touching her forehead to his as he beat into her, each hit made her behind jiggle as he continued his exploring of her body; this time heading to her wings as he kissed along her wing joints, the Charizard loving every peck of his lips touching her. Alongside this, he gently traced his fingers across her generous rear with his hands, appreciating every curve of her gorgeous body, allowing her to close her eyes and smile, to savoir the feeling with satisfaction.

She wanted him as close to her as possible, in desiring so she wrapped her tail carefully around his back as she pushed her rear back into him, hitting him in tandem as he pulsated himself onto her. He responded to this in kind, wrapping his arm around her tail and giving the appendage gentle kisses, not at all afraid by how close his face was to the tip. She hummed in delight, rocking her hips to him as he held her close, never wanting to let her go.

"Hold me closer, my love." The few words spoken during this session meant a thousand words and more to the Champion as he gracefully pulled his body over her back and wrapped his arms around her chest, letting his chest touch her as he began to slam his hips, keeping his weight tied to his legs so not to force his love down. Not that it would do much, as the female had difficulty standing her weight on her arms - not due to excessive mass, but the pleasure she was getting took a hold of her, clasping her down like woolen tendrils as she cared for nought but the now. Twisting her head back to meet him she gently nuzzled his hair, relaxing with the smell of his natural body while petting her human as best he could.

But through it all she continued to rock her lower half onto him, the noise of their slaps echoed off the walls as only the murmurs and pants of the two were the exclusive ones to try and drown it out, the noise cascading off the walls for minutes on end until they finally could stop.

No words were said of their final union, nor sentences that could convey what they felt as they let their actions do the talking, barely moving besides small shivers as the two let their session finish with gentle caressing.

She happily pulled him against her, when they could calm down, having herself lay by his side and drape a protective wing over him, pulling the furs and blankets over them both as they finally settled down for this night. She nuzzled and kissed his head, elated to find the one for her life, while he in turn revelled in the wonderful warmth that was her demeanor.

Smiling in the way only a female could, she closed her eyes and rested her chin on his cheek as she whispered "I would be, the proudest female alive to bear your children."

"And I would ask for no better wife and mother for my children." He replied in turn, resting herself to her as she draped a leg and her tail of him cuddling close and pondering over what a happy future would be in store for them.

But that is for a time long to come, a future they have yet to seek, and only could they live in the present for each other, could they hope to build a life they desperately crave.

Though many centuries have passed on these lands, the legend of The Champion And The Dragon still holds meaning in the modern world. Resting upon an ancient path laid molten stones, a place of a once renowned battle known by today as Dragon's Fury still stands proud. And far off down into the forest was a breaking wall of ancient standing stones.

Upon these stones, carved out by the Ones of Wise Words, it tells the story through pictograms of the tale The Champion And The Dragon for future men and women to read to their kin; of the chasing of the dragon, the saving by the Champion, the attack on the Monari, her evolution, her final contact with the Dragon-Hunters, the union of human and dragon, and finally of him riding atop her through the clouds.

Those stones are told to still be erect to this day, hidden deep within the ancient lands, for their lives may have ended, the hardships they have endured are forever etched in time.

Hope You Enjoyed!