The Second Salamander

Prologue

Igneel looked up into the sky, his large, glowing, yellow eyes squinting into the dark cover of clouds. He breathed out slowly, searching for something, a sign for what to do next.

"You know you have to wake her up." Said a voice from the shadows.

A low growl vibrated through the dragons throat.

"You saw what will happen without her. He will surely die if she's not there to protect him. You know that, so why do you hesitate?" The voice said, frustration creeping into her tone.

Igneel sighed.

"She will no doubt be furious with me. I'm terrified to think of how much heart ache she will have to go through when she wakes." His large eyes closed. "I don't want both of them to feel abandoned."

"Just a small price to pay to save millions of lives. You say she is strong, and smart. If he was able to fight through it, there is no doubt in my mind that she will be able to as well." She paused. "So why don't you trust her?"

Igneel winced. Then he raised his head and stared into her eyes with a furious glare.

"You know full well, Grandina, that I trust her almost more than I trust you. So don't you dare accuse me of having wavering faith in my child!" He roared.

Grandina stared back, unfazed by the feircness of Igneel's gaze.

"Watch your temper, Igneel. We can't have you destroying our home now, can we?" She said flatly. "I am sorry for my accusation. I know it was wrong of me to say that. It was only to help you get your priorities in order so you can make your decision." She said, and gave a humble bow to the great beast.

Igneel huffed in acceptance. "Thank you, Grandina. You are right. I must do this, for the sake of him, and all who he calls family. Now if you'd excuse me..."

He huffed and unfurled his grand, elagent wings.

"I must awaken Kameel."