CHAPTER 4
The group continued to follow the trench that had carved the land. It took them a couple of days following it east before they reached the salt lake of Opochtli. Yulya stopped them as they stepped on the white sand beach. “Alright. We'll stop here for tonight. We'll cross the lake tomorrow. Further north their should be a Gryphon Shack. They will give us transport to Opochtli at the center of the lake.” The elder wolfess spoke as she piled driftwood in the middle of them, aiming her staff at the fire and began its blaze.
Sakari leaned back on a stone that stuck up from the sand, groaning while she pulled out the old map. Her finger traced northwest from her small village, Fayorn, and paused on Heirtol. She saw her father's calligraphy that marked it as the home of the earth dragon. Continuing northwest, her claw came to HaiKhan, the fire dragon's residence Circling down the northern coast of the continent, Azul's dot came next, home to the wind dragon. “S-So Zerataph has at least three of the dragons, right?” She asked no one in particular.  “He might have Opochtli's water dragon, But if not. We have to stop him there before he destroys anything more...” She lowered the map and looked into fire that burned brightly as the sky grew darker. “We stand a chance though, right. With all of us, we can do it.” The wolfess spoke, trying more than anything to encourage herself. 
Yulya nodded lightly as she handed the last of their rations to Ferain and Keelya. “There is a possibility. But without the sacred sword the odds are still going to be in his favor.” She looked up as stars began to twinkle into sight, filling the dark sky quickly. “But we will try everything in our power to protect the remaining dragon.” She said and lay out on the sand with a groan. “Rest well, dears. Don't stay up late.” The wolfess looked up at her daughter and the cougar.
Sakari rolled up the map with a heavy sight as doubt started to grip her stronger than ever. Looking up into the milky strip over the sky as she lay down on the sand. Gods help us....Mother... She thought as her heart throbbed painfully in her chest. The red wolf closed her eyes and tried her best to sleep. Her dreams were plagued by nightmares. Images of her home destroyed and Zerataph's face was distorted beyond recognition. She bolted upright as the sun was coming over the crest of the lake. She panted lightly as she looked into the smoldering fire. 
“Sakari? Are you alright?” Ferain asked, as he said as he started to toss sand onto the remains of the fire.
The wolf nodded quickly. “Y-Yeah. Just bad dreams.” She grinned a forced smile. They gathered their equipment and began to follow the beach north. Ferain and Keelya were giggling as they splashed around in the shallows. After a few hours, the group reached a  slight cliff that hung over the  lake. A small cabin was perched at the edge of a large paddock that fenced in half a dozen gryphons of call colors. They were about three meters tall on average the larger of them stretching to show off his massive fourteen meter wingspan. 
They walked up the hill and came to the fence, an otter walked about the field, tending to the creatures. He walked up to the fence, his thick tail swaying behind him. He wasn't wearing much beyond a cloth wrap that covered him from the bottom of his ribcage to his knees. Bright colored beads and shells “Welcome Travelers! Need a gryphon to Opochtli?” He asked and raised his paws towards the stables. “Rides are free for the celebration.”
“Celebration?” Keelya's ears perked and her fur stood on end in excitement. 
“ Yes, The sacred dragon has finally returned.” 
“Dragon? It's still here?” The red wolfess' eyes lighting up and a hopeful smile spread over her muzzle.
“Of course. Where else would it go when she got enough food and treasures fit for a king?”
Sakari flicked her ears. “ Well, There's somebody that's...” She was quickly hushed by Yulya.
“No Reason. We were curious is all.” The gray wolf smiled. “We'll take the gryphons, thank you.” 
The otter nodded and grinned widely and led the party into the paddock. Her brought two of the larger beasts around to stand before them. “Since you've got children, you should need just these two. Our strongest males.” He chuckles and gently touched their beaks. The young cougar stepped behind Sakari nervously, watching the gryphon close. “Don't worry, they're all well trained. Just hold the leads and they'll make sure to get you where you need. My brother will be meeting you when you land on the island.” He said and helped the them up onto the leather saddles; Ferain and Sakari on a golden brown gryphon, while Keelya and Yulya were mounted on a deep crimson. “Have a safe flight.” He said and gave a light pat on their hindquarters.
They ran towards the edge of the cliff and kicked hard off the ground. Opening their wings, the pair of gryphons began gliding over the sparkling lake. The sun was reflecting on the azure water and the cool air whipping her long braid around behind her. She looked over the beast's side to look into the water, the backs of giant fish could be seen peeking out of the dark waters.
The giant wings flapped strongly and lifted them away from the water. The island quickly coming into sight. She looked over the green peninsula that stuck out from the island and saw another pasture that looked like the one they'd just left. When they landed they saw an otter coming up to them, an exact copy of the one they'd just departed.
“Welcome to Opochtli.” He smiled as he helped the cubs climb off the gryphon's back “We're so glad that you could join us. The festivities have already begun. If you wish to visit the great dragoness, do not forget an offering. Please enjoy yourselves.” He said with a wide smile and lead them to the edge of the paddock that lead them to the town.
The group walked down the small path that lead into the main street of town. The dirt turning to a cobbled road. Above them were strings of lanterns and banners crisscrossing over the street. Each shop had a sign placed outside, inviting them in. The scents and sounds of food cooking filled their senses. Keelya and Ferain quickly dashed into the nearest shop, Yulya grabbing at them, but missing them by inches. “Don't go wild you two!” She yipped at them. The two came out with large handful of chocolates and sweets. “Kids...” She sighed as Sakari struggled to suppress a giggle.
“Well...Maybe this would be a good time to be here? We could use...a break?” Ferain suggested as he bit into a large cake ball. “We've been doing nothing but fighting and traveling. We could stay here and rest?” He looked up at the two older females, his long tail whipping around behind him.
Sakari tapped her arm as she looked down at the young feline. Her eyes slipped from his amber eyes to the treats he held in his paws. Her nose twitched as she breathed in the strong scent of all the food that was being cooked; ears pivoting to catch the laughter and excitement around them. She gave a gentle nod. “You're right, Ferain. We'll find a place to spend the night. We're here, so if Zerataph shows up, we'll be here to stop him.” She smiled.
Yulya tisked lightly. “We really shouldn't. We have to focus.”
“Come on, Mom. It's only for tonight.” Keelya rolled her eyes and and bit into a stick of chocolate. “What's the worst that can happen while we're here. And besides, we're exhausted from the traveling for so long.” She groaned in a playful manner.
“I...suppose.” The elder wolf sighed, worry lingering in her voice.
They walked to the inn that sat in the middle of the stores. They put their stuff in the room before going back to the festival. Sakari gathered together a giant platter of meat and fruits of every kind. Setting it down on a table, the four dug in, the cubs eating quicker than  the two wolves. Yulya picked at the ham that covered much of the plate.  “So, Sakari. Where'd you grow up?” the wolfess asked out of now where.
“Hmm?” Sakari sipped from her drink. “I grew up in Fayorn. It's a small farming town in the south.” 
“Heh, I see. How was that like?” She watched her daughter stand up and chase after a sweets cart. She shook her head and continued to eat from the plate.
“It was pretty nice and quiet. Me and...my brother used to always skip chores, though. We'd go out to a clearing in the forest that bordered the village and practice with out Shinai. I...miss those days.” She said with a chuckle as she rolled a grape around with her claw.
“You have a brother? I figured you as an only child.”
“What makes you say that?” Sakari lifted her head, ears flat against her head.
“Well, you don't act like someone who had a brother growing up.” The elder wolf said quietly.
“Well, honestly I didn't have him in my life for long. My mother died when I was born, and my father never remarried. My brother was brought in when I was twelve, we found him hiding in our shed on a stormy night. Ever since then he's been part of the family.” She took a rather large gulp of her drink, finishing off the cup. “But a year ago, he left. I haven't...heard from him since.” She said and pulled a drink from a passing tiger's tray and drinking it quickly. “Let's not talk about it. It's a bit of a sensitive subject still.”
Yulya nodded. “I'm sorry. Let's enjoy tonight.” She said and lifted her glass lightly as Sakari did the same and drank the rest of their drinks before continuing to eat.
The four of them ate and drank late into the night and some how made it to their room to sleep. Sakari was the first to wake the following morning, a low groan sounded from the bed where she lay. Holding her head in her hands, she gently rubbed over it to try and ease away the ache that filled her skull. She limped to the window, blinking in the bright sunlight.  The shop owners were busy clearing debris from the streets in front of their stores. Her ears flattened against her head. “Ah gods...the dragon. What was I thinking, gods?” She said and shook her head, pulling her father's armor back on and attaching her scabbard to her waist. Looking over the city, she saw a white sand island connected to the city by a long wooden bridge. 
Sakari dashed down the street and crossed the bridge. Just at the end of the bridge was a tall wooden building. Blue and gold paint decorated the whole building. Walking through the open doorway, Sakari's had to readjust to the dimmer light. She blinked and stared wide-eyed  as she came fast to face with the sleeping water dragon. 
The eastern dragon sat on a dark green cushion that was placed in the center of the room, light pouring from an opening in the top, a grate making a mesh pattern over its body. The deep blue sapphire scales sparkled in the light, a sea-green main of fur began behind its otter like head and rand down the center of its back, ending in a large tuft of fur on its tail tip. On the top of its head was a pair of long, clear blue horns that looked like they were made of pure water.
As Sakari stepped closer, its whiskers twitched and it opened its eyes to expose its azure eyes. “Good morning, little one.”  The long dragon said a soft yawn. Her voice was soft and very feminine. Sakari had a feeling like she was talking to her mother in a way. 
“G-Good morning. I was wondering if I could speak with you. There's something important--” She bowed her head lightly as she spoke.
“Have you brought an offering?” 
Sakari opened paws to show nothing. “I-I haven't...” the wolf looked down as the hilt of her sword caught her eye. “I-I've this.” She pulled the sword out, setting it down on a small table that was already covered with objects.
The dragoness lowered her head and looked over the blade. “it's lovely. I've never seen a sword with such a beautiful shine.” She lifted her head. “What did you need to talk about, dear?” 
“You're in danger.” Sakari cut to the point, her red tail flicking back and forth as she spoke.
The dragon's head pulled back, blinking in surprise. “Danger? How do you mean, little one?” She asked as her head lowered again so that she could look Sakari in the eyes.
“There's somebody. A dragon who's going to each Dragon Shrine and absorbing the dragon. Zerataph has already collected three dragons, and I'm sure he'll be coming after you next.” The wolf said, looking into the dragoness' deep blue eyes.
“You're...Serious, aren't you?” 
Sakari nodded slowly.
“I'm afraid that you've fallen behind again Sakari.” A deep voice echoed in the large room. Sakari spun around to find Zerataph standing in the door way, his silhouette seemed darker than a normal shadow.  “You see, while you were busy partying the night away, I've traveled the lake to retrieve the last of the dragons.” he said and stepped forward, the long blade clutched in his left hand. “Honestly, I'm surprised that you got here before I did.” He grinned devilishly as he walked up to the offering table. 
Sakari growled and dashed forward, yanking the sword off of the table as she lunged at the dragon morph. Zerataph shot his free hand out. The claw of energy that had stopped Nempus' ice spell in HaiKhan clutched around her chest and slammed her into the wall just right of the entry way. The wind was knocked out of her as she hit the wall, the claw compressing her chest so she couldn't breath very well. She shuddered in pain, the sword clanging onto the wood as she felt her whole body grow weak. “Now you just stay right there. As soon as I'm done here, I've got a few more things to show you.”
With that Zerataph lifted the sword and grinned at the dragoness that stood before him. “It's about time you returned to your brothers. Together we will bring back the glory days of the dragons. With your help my...OUR dream will be achieved.” He thrust the sword forward. A dark beam blasted from the tip and pierced her chest. 
The dragon roared out, drowning out  Sakari's scream. Pulling his arm back, the beam retreated into the sword once more. A sphere of dark blue was on the tip of the sword for a moment before sliding down the length of the dragon spine blade like it'd just been swallowed. As the sphere disappeared into his hand that held the sword, blue filled a band  of his chest plate. The body of the dragon dissolved and floated into the sky as the bright sunny day quickly grew dark. A massive storm formed above the shrine, thunder striking the sand and water around them.
“At last.” He growled as he whole body was surrounded by a dark aura. Grinning, Zerataph turned his attention back to Sakari. “I'm glad that you could watch that. A perfect image that will take you into the afterlife.” He hissed and thrust his sword forward the tip sinking into her right shoulder, piercing her armour easily. He pulled back to strike again, her eyes shutting tightly. When she heard the clang of steel and bone bouncing off of each other, she opened her eyes. Keelya had jumped in to block his tack, deflecting his attack with her daggers. 
Zerataph growled and kicked out and smashed his foot into her chest, sending her to fly backwards into the wall next to Sakari and falling onto the ground. He jabbed his sword into the ground and sent a shock wave into the earth. The ground crumbled under the shrine, the wooden floorboards caving in with no support.
Keelya struggled to her feet just as the floor give out, causing her to fall. She stuck her daggers into the side of the fissure, slipping a couple of feet to rest against the wall.
“DAUGHTER!” Yulya cried out and dashed to the edge of the pit, looking down into the vixen's terrified eyes. “Take my hand!” She reached down for the young fox.
Zerataph hissed and raised his right arm, a ball of fire formed in his palm. He pulled his arm back to throw the ball when from the doorway came the snap of a bowstring. He began to throw it forward when an arrow pierced his left eye. He roared out in pain, the fireball flying above Yulya's head and exploded on the against the wooden wall. The wood quickly caught fire and engulfed the building. Zerataph pulled the arrow out of his eyes, growling as blood drenched the left side of his face. “Damn it. I wanted to do this more personally. But I think this will do.” He whipped his right arm back. 
The claw of energy that was holding Sakari against the wall dug its claws into her sides and pulled back. She hung on the wall as the claws tore over her sides, yet never making a mark on her clothes or flesh. As it pulled further back, a large red-orange ghostly figure was ripped out of her body. She screamed in pain as her heart felt like it was going to explode. Her eyes became colorless.
The shouts of her friends grew muffled as her eyes fell shut and she became limp, falling into the ravine just below.
Zerataph howled in laughter as Sakari's ghostly form vanished into his hand. Forming the energy into wings, he shot up into the sky, leaving Yulya, Ferain and Keelya to stare into the pit that Sakari had vanished into.
“Keelya, Ferain! We have to go. Now!” the elderly wolf shouted to be heard over the roaring fire.
“What about Sakari?!” Ferain shouted in return as the collar of his top was pulled back away from the fissure.
Yulya looked over her shoulder as they dashed out of the building, watching the wood crash down into the water. “There's...There's nothing we can do.” She said sadly as Ferain fell to his knees, unable to hold back his sobs as the flames were quickly doused by the villagers. “I'm so sorry, Ferain...” Ferain said and gently placed her paws on his shoulders as she looked over the smoldering shrine as the storm began to pour rain down over their heads, steam rising high into the sky.