Scale Back Tail (Original Universe)

Chapter 12: Tricked

Ash's POV

I awoke to an absolutely splitting headache. Nothing rushed back to me other than the faint memory of that dragon...Axis. Axis had done something to me, I think. I could continue my thinking later once I figured out where I was. I forced myself to open my eyes, quickly remembering that I was in the library, although now on the floor.

A faint blue glow caught my eyes in the sunset-lit room, forcing me to sit up and a multitude of things to hit me at once. Cyber and Thorn had stayed in the library this whole time, although currently asleep. Cyber had an arm wrapped around Thorn, holding him close while Thorn rested his head against Cyber's. It was actually a rather peaceful sight if I had to be honest. Another thing that hit me, however, was what Axis said to me before they left & that blood-curdling pain filled my bones. 'I expect you to be in the field, by sundown no earlier.'

Why would they say no earlier than sundown? Why the field? What's going to happen if I don't go to the field? Tens of other questions flooded my brain, none of which could be answered if I didn't make a choice.

Shade's POV

I gave out a groan as I slipped out of the shadow of a tree. We had been sitting here for three dials now, at least according to my claws. Axis turned to where they thought they had walked out from, although missing the mark slightly, not that I can blame them since I came from their blind side. "Apologizes, normally I'd have a regular guard back me up, but you know how Dragling feels about fights before festivals," They said rather sincerely. No matter how many times I heard them speak it was always so interesting to notice the subtle difference from them being snide to caring.

"I already agreed the first time, I can wait till morning at least yeah? At the very least it's nice getting to enjoy the quiet instead of dealing with rogues," I started as I made my way over to them, placing a gentle wing over their back, "But, this dragon we're waiting for. What's got you so on edge that you need me? I've seen you best Dante more than once, what's a dragon half his since got against you?"

"This..dragon..can change their scales to those of the dragon that has touched them. It unsettles me that no other dragon here suspects they may be a half-breed that's transformed." Axis stated in a forced calm voice, though I could see the growing mix of anger and confusion in their eye. "I thought half-breeds couldn't transform though? It's rare enough that we've found another one that's like you, let alone with the ability to transform," I countered, unsure if that would settle or worsen Axis' mood.

The sudden fear in Axis' eye was the only answer I got as the growing sound of wings approached. I quickly sank into the shadows before I could be spotted. That conversation could be continued later.

Ash's POV

Regret filled my mind as I spotted a dragon that I believed was Axis in the field. I had come too far now to fly back, I'd surely be followed if I tried to run. I had made my choice and it was time to at least get one answer. I shook my head to clear my thoughts before carefully circling down into the field, landing a short distance from Axis.

Something felt off as soon as my paws touched the ground. A feeling as if I was being watched by someone or something other than Axis. I stayed alert as I slowly made my way towards Axis. A low hissing sound came from them as they went from sitting to standing, claws digging into the earth with wings spread out. This was supposed to be a fight, not a confrontation. I understood the weight of the choice I had made now, and why Thorn was stunned that I'd go. I had no experience in fighting, let alone as a dragon. I would never win this.

That's beside this now. My best chance is to try and run.

Shade's POV

I slowly rose from behind the dragon. Night had fallen now, my perfect time to show off. I made eye contact with Axis, giving them the signal to go ahead. Axis only nodded as they started walking towards the dragon in front of me, the scales of their arms and face starting to rise from their skin as they did. A grin formed on my face as the dragon started to back up, not realizing I was behind them. I was just about to get ready to make my own move when I felt the ground tremble under me as if it was about to split open.

A roar that sank me to my core followed, a wave of blueish green light spreading across the sky with it. I saw flocks of birds, even a few dragons immediately take to the sky after seeing the light, but I knew it was too late for the 3 of us. The pure fear in Axis' eyes, something I had only seen on certain occasions, confirmed my suspicion even more. Arourus was about to sink us six feet into the ground for what we had done.