Chapter 9

Sky City Draconis

Nov. 1, 2054. Saturday. 9:11 AM

Zero logged back in the game, still stuck in the spiritual dimension. What was strange, though, was that he felt the sharp draw of his soul being pulled toward the center of a white room. Then, a beam of light hit him, causing him to go temporarily blind. When he opened his eyes, he was inside the physical realm, but what startled him was that he was inside the final boss room in the physical side of the dimension.

Looking around, he noticed all the other teammates appearing next to him one by one, confused by the streak of lights. He saw Zeraph and Anu off in the distance, whispering among each other. When he was about to get up to walk towards him, Agnis was called out to him.

"Zero?" said Agnis. She was next to him when he had awoken.

"Yea?"

"What's going on?"

"I'm not sure...."

Since the time that they came back from last night's adventure, everything that happened just made Zero's head dizzy. Angel and the other teachers did not explain anything and congratulated them for succeeding in their mission. All they did was give them a pat on the back and a three-day pass to take a vacation outside the Academy. Other than that, they needed to be more knowledgeable.

Even the reward of Black Magic they had gotten from the Devil Quest disappeared right after they completed the Angel Quest. Zero couldn't help but wonder what kind of black magic it was, but then again, he felt that the black magic he was given was dangerous.

They did not have time to grieve for Tonia, who had disappeared under the wings of the scientist. Instead, they were instructed to go back into the game when they woke up, leaving them frustrated.

Looking around, Zero knew that they were on the final boss level of the Pyramid of Light.

Unfortunately, not even a single boss appeared, confusing everyone logged on.

"Isn't there supposed to be a boss here?" Valiant asked. His black dragon head was sniffing around to find a clue. "I'm not complaining; it's just a bit weird…."

"Yea…" Sekka replied. Her gold scales glimmered like gold every time she took a step. "Is this normal?"

"No," Zero replied. He, too, was waiting for the final trap to be sprung, but nothing happened. He felt confused and lost. The thought of fighting the Black Dragon in real life last night was a complete shock to him; it felt so unbelievable that he thought he had hit his head. But the reassurance of all his teammates made it that much more real that it was hard to ignore.

Anu walked up toward the crowd of dragons and companions. He bowed toward the group. "I am sorry to inform you, but this was all just a test to get you to this level. No king sleeps in this last room, but you all did spectacularly. Your leader had thwarted the black dragon and dispelled the curse."

"What?!" The others cried out in disbelief. They were having a hard time believing that something this outrageous had happened. Everyone knew that the last fight with the boss was something they were looking forward to, but being suddenly told that they weren't was just weird. Not only that, the information that their leader had thwarted the black dragon was unheard of.

Zero's face twitched when he heard Anu speak those words. Even Agnis and Zeraph frowned deeply at what Anu had spoken but kept quiet. They did not even know where to begin explaining the outrageous event they had gone through.

The voices of others were confused by Anu's words.

"Who killed the black dragon?"

"Wait, was there even one here?"

"I'm so lost."

"You and me both."

"Though the king's will is still sleeping in this room." Anu broke into a grin. "Now my job is done. I bid you farewell." Then, with a snap of his finger, Anu disappeared.

Zero couldn't help but wonder what Zeraph and Anu were talking about among each other. He had a feeling that Zeraph was hiding something big, but he knew that this was not the time for him to ask. All he could do was wait for him to tell him. He was different from the type to pry into other people's business, but he wondered what Zeraph had to do with the Pyramid of Light.

Everyone was dumbfounded by Anu's words. Not a single question was answered, and they were left alone.

"Captain. What did Anu mean you thwarted the black dragon? When did you do that?"

Zero head hurted. He didn't know how to explain. He felt his life was in danger if he told everyone about what had happened. But, at the same time, he knew that the others wouldn't believe him. It was just so insane that he felt like last night was just a dream.

"It was just a simple deliverance quest. I brought in a relic to stop the black dragon from coming in." He quickly made up a lie.

"Really? Can we see it?"

Zero groaned. "Well, about that… it broke when we entered. So the effect was used."

"Oh…"

The others were disappointed.

He felt bad that he had lied to everyone, but this explanation was much more believable than the things he had gone through last night. Even Agnis did not refute what he had said and stood quiet. Zeraph, on the other hand, did not seem to care and instead watched the whole thing play out.

With a rumble, the ground started to move, and nine pedestals appeared from the ground. Eight pedestals with orbs surrounded one pedestal in the middle. Zero and the others watched with curiosity at the strange appearance of the pedestal and went to examine the one in the middle. He noticed that it was an O.M. crystal ball.

The moment he touched the O.M., a bright light erupted outwards, and a large-scale scene played before them.

"Your majesty." A white dragon was next to the majestic golden dragon. His small body dwarfed compared to the gold dragon as he bowed elegantly.

The gold dragon's beautiful feathered wings were tucked tightly on his back. His slender neck

and lean body glistened with power. He gazed off into the distance, and he closed his eyes, letting out a breath and a sigh.

"Your majesty, why would you separate your son from the other children? I do not understand; would it not be more beneficial for him to be with the other children inside the protection of the golden egg?" The white dragon's head bobbed. "The safety of your bloodline is a priority to live on towards the next generation so he may lead his people."

"That is correct."

"But then why?"

Gently opening his golden eyes, the king glanced down upon the white dragon. His gaze made the white dragon shudder and inch backward from fear. "The golden egg can not be opened without the blood of a king and the queen. Together, we have made this our binding, so our kind may rest till the young prince awakens to fulfill his duty." The king transformed into his human self; his hands were wrapped around with light magic. His golden hair flowed gracefully behind him as his white and gold clothes formed, covering his body.

"Then what about his brother, your highness? Will he be able to awaken the others?"

"Do not speak of him anymore." Then, with an angered voice, the king glared downwards at the white dragon, who cringed at his gaze.

"Yes, your majesty."

The king's anger dissipated. In the king's hand, a black and gold speckled dragon egg appeared before the king. His right hand grew with power and slowly focused on the tip of his fingers. Then, with careful hands, he started to embroil the egg with a smiley face. "May you always smile with great fortune?" The last line was drawn when he finished a sizzling hot heat of gold power glowed brightly, and then it faded into black.

With steady hands, the king brought the smiley face egg towards a pedestal in front of him. He gently placed it on the pedestals, and seconds later, a soft hum of energy shot out from the egg, protecting it with gold energy. Two large goldish-red dragon salamanders appeared around the egg, carefully guarding it with vigor.

"Your majesty, please. This barrier is not strong enough. Anyone can waltz in this area without much trouble; what if a demon waltzed in here and destroyed the egg?" exclaimed the white dragon in worry. "Such thoughts terrify me."

"Do not worry, my old friend. No demon can sniff out this place." The king said with a gruff voice. "I am looking forward to the thought that someone will come in and find the prince."

"What?!?!" The white dragon was flabbergasted. His eyes widened, and he stared at the king in complete disbelief. "Your majesty? D-did I hear you correctly? You want someone to find him?"

"Yes, but that would be in another thousand years, my old friend. By then, the world had forgotten our kind, and the demons would be at bay. So let us not waste our time here. My son will be just fine." The king turned his back onto the small egg that stood on the pedestal like a special trophy. He then walked away with the white dragon trailing behind him with a frown plastered to his face. With one last look, the king turned his head over his shoulder to see the small egg guarded by two dragon salamanders.

Even to see his child sitting on the pedestal like a prize, he could not help but feel himself waver in sadness. Then, with a quick intake of breath, he steeled his heart and left, leaving behind his legacy. Time passed, and the cave's interior grew many different types of plants. For a thousand years, the dark-lit room was peaceful and quiet.

One day, a bright white light peeked through the side of the entrance door. Quick footsteps charged through as a team of six people came running in, all wearing cloaked brown hoods. Their swords were drawn and brimming with magic, and they cast their magical energy at the two dragon salamanders.

With a hiss, the two dragon salamanders spat out large balls of fire while molten lava spewed from its back. The six spread out and quickly ambushed the dragon salamanders in seconds without hurting anyone.

The tallest person in the group walked over to the pedestal where the dragon egg stood. "My. My. What do we have here?" A charming low voice spoke out with glee. His hands grabbed hold of the dragon egg and picked it up.

"A smiley face? Is this normal?" A young girl's voice spoke out beside him. "Are you sure it's not a dud?"

"I don't think so; the egg even had a high-level Dragon Salamander guarding it. Of course, people who don't have enough power or the strength to fight against them would've died in seconds, but the six of us are a different story." The young man arrogantly said. "Either way, let's take this and see what would hatch from it. Who knows, we might get an awesome pet for a companion."

"No. We should sell it." A gruff voice from the back of the man holding the egg spoke. "I've got a very bad feeling coming from that egg. If we keep it with us, there will be trouble, not even the ordinary kind."

"Calm down; your superstition is getting a bit out of hand."

"Yea, we got something good. Let's go."

The short man that spoke out with discomfort kept his mouth shut and glanced at his teammate with worry. They continued on their path until they all came out deep from the mountain canyons and into the bright sunlight. For days, the egg traveled through different terrains as the group fought many rampaging monsters in their travel.

Late at night, shadows moved around in the camp when everyone was sleeping alone. A dangerous glint of the shadow's dagger gleamed underneath the crescent moon. In seconds, the shadow leaped through each sleeping bed and quietly slit all five out of six members' throats in cold sleep. The last one was able to wake up and move out of harm's way, but the heavy toxins in his body made it difficult for him to move.

"Ugly human. Die like the filth that you all are!" Then, with a yell, the shadow jumped out and slashed downwards toward the short man on the floor.

Pulling himself back, the man dodged in the nick of time from the flashing blade. At that moment, he exchanged a lethal blow through the throat of the shadow, leaving behind a splash of black blood. With a gurgle, the shadow became solid, and a demonic creature stepped out. It collapsed onto the ground and fell dead without being able to utter a single word.

The man, with great pain, grabbed the backpacks that he could carry and stumbled through the woods. Unholy, screeching-like sounds could be heard from the dark forest, continually putting him on edge. The numerous voices continued to harbor him with ill intent, causing him massive stress and fear. Finally, with great difficulty, he ran towards the nearest city, reaching his destination at the City of Diadem. He ran straight towards Tony's Egg shop. With a clang, the door was violently pushed open as the short man came rushing towards the counter.

"Take this!" With a hoarse voice, the man took the dragon egg out of his bag and placed it on the counter. "Please!" He desperately started with a bit of a manic voice. Then, grabbing Tyrell's, he begged him to buy it off his hands.

Tyrell pulled his hands back, a bit unnerved. "How much do you want for it?"

"I don't care just to name the price."

"5 Silver coins."

"Deal." He nodded vigorously and pushed the egg toward Tyrell without a single care in the world.

Tyrell pulled the Silver coin out onto the counter; the man swiped the coin and rushed out without saying thank you.

"What's his problem?" Tyrell's eyes furrowed, suspicious of his behavior. He then stopped to look at the egg in front of him. With gentle hands, he picked up the egg towards the light. A small cast of a creature reflected through the thick shell, and Tyrell's lips became wide to the point it would rip. "The fool had sold me a golden goose." With a chuckle, he took the egg and placed it gently in the most visible spot in the room of hundreds of other eggs. The scene started to fade into white.

A new title has been given: Prince of Dragons. In addition, a +3 status bonus increase has been applied to your status.

So that's what happened—zero thought. The O.M. glowed white, and his Book of Historia appeared out of thin air, gobbling the O.M. in one go and disappearing.

Zero's cheek twitched at the sight that just happened. The Book of Historia he had always kept beside him had a mind of his own in which it loved to gobble away at his O.M.

With a sigh, he walked over toward one of the eight. The pedestal glowed pure gold and black, swirling around each other into spirals. He gently placed his hand on the Orb and felt a small prick on his fingers. Blood dripped onto the Orb, and a flash of gold and black light blinded outwards and receded. Following five seconds later, a blast of gold light shot upwards.

Blood of the Dragon Prince has activated the Gold Stone. Please insert the Krustallos of one of the Gold Dragon Generals to start it.

Zero was shocked. He was surprised that this Gold Stone needed a Krustallos to activate it, especially of a General Dragon completely. The only Gold General Dragon was Sekka herself.

"Seka!" Zero called out with excitement.

Sekka bounded forward, wondering what was going on. "Is something wrong, captain?"

"You have your first original Krustallos, right?"

"Krustallos? What's that?"

"It's the gem that grows on your chest naturally."

"Oh, that. What was it for? What about it?"

"Take it off and place it on the orb."

"Take it off? How?"

"Simply tap it or something. It naturally falls off, you know."

"Really?" Sekka was staring at her chest where a small diamond-shaped gold colored Krustallos were embedded. She touched the Krustallos, and it easily fell off her chest. She then placed it onto the Orb and waited.

Second, later, the Krustallos absorbed into the Orb and floated in the middle. A powerful hum of energy rang outwards, settling down into a low buzz.

"What just happened?"

"I don't know," said Zero. "But I'm guessing that the other seven are similar. So stay here; I'll go

check out the rest."

"Okay." Sekka lowered her head towards the Orb, completely fascinated at what was happening.

Zero then walked around and started to activate each Orb with his blood, and each Orb brought up the same message but with different colored Generals. From blue, red, white, bronze, silver, black, and green, all the Dragon Generals had their Krustallos pulled into the Orb. When the final Krustallos was absorbed into the Orb, the ground shook.

"What's going on?" The dragons and players were alarmed at the strange event.

"Keep calm!" Zero shouted. He was not completely sure what would happen next, making him nervous like everyone.

The ground split into eight giant pieces, causing all eight to break apart. Zero, Agnis, and Zeraph stood in the middle, while the others were in one of the large eight pieces. Shimmers of different light colors erupted outwards from the ground underneath the orbs.

The thunderous roar of mechanical contraptions could be heard all around them. The walls of the Pyramid of light broke apart and reformed around each Orb. A variety of buildings were being formed from left to right.

One-story buildings were forming around the Orb; the first was a naval building draped with a blue flag symbol with a blue dragon. The next was Roman architecture with pearly white marble stone that reminded one of a bank. Finally, red-colored dragon symbols were plastered over the entrance.

Next, a gray-colored observatory with a dome-shaped head appeared following after. A green dragon design wrapped itself around the dome-shaped head. Another large building that looked like a round football field appeared decorated with a bunch of bronze-colored flags. Each flag had a bronze symbol, a dragon embroiled in it. Next, Twin skyscrapers appeared entwined together like a lover's embrace. Silver dragon emblems were embedded in the middle of the building. An ominous-looking temple that looks more like a skeletal dragon appeared not even a second later. Black dragon symbols decorated the entrance walls.

A large building that competed with the ominous dragon temple was a temple with feathered wings. Beautiful fluid designs of gold dragons danced along the walls, accentuating their grace and beauty. The final building that came out was a simple Japanese-type temple. On the front wooden door, a white dragon symbol was embroidered boldly into the wood.

The small pieces of land that circled each building started to break apart from the ground and slowly floated up into the sky.

Zero couldn't help but be amazed at what he was watching in front of him. Eight unique buildings were flying upwards. A giant creeping shadow hovered over him, and he noticed the Draconis village appearing before him.

This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

Quickly, Zero shifted into his dragon form. Agnes and Zeraph hopped onto his back, and he vaulted forward, grabbing onto the nearest floating building. He jumped upwards and held onto the next till he finally reached up onto the Draconis Village. Both Agnis and Zeraph slipped off and watched with curiosity.

Hundreds of baby dragons and their companions rushed to see the strange sight. Even the players and the residents of Elven city came out in alarm. They pointed and shouted in awe at the spectacle in front of them. Each piece of the building finally stopped on an even plane and eventually floated next to the Draconis Village.

Eight buildings floated around the Draconis Village, creating a unique flower-like pattern from above. Glowing red magic started to churn as magma magic started spewing new land around the eight.

Multiple messages rang in front of Zero.

Establishment of the Sky City Draconis

A rare occurrence has established itself in the land of Noriene. For the first time in Drezo Regalia history, the first formation of multiple flying islands has banded together to create a Sanctuary for the Drezo Regalia, using the Dragon's unique power to create a miracle. From the formation of these islands, it has now become a city.

Main Building: Draconis Castle Library

Owner: Zero

Sub commander: Agnis

Island: Main Island Draconis

The core of the Dragon city is where all dragon magic connects to. An extensive collection of lost knowledge and news is collected for the world's benefit. No library throughout the Fire Continent rivals the vast amount of collection of literature. It is also the main castle, where the Chief Librarian, the Prince of Drezo Regalia, lives and oversees the Land of the Dragons.

Main Building: Naval War Shipyard

Owner: Blue Dragon General Turnip

Subcommander: Terry

Island: Blue Island

The main island specializes in naval warfare and naval construction. However, the sky is not the only domain that dragons seek. It is possible to restore the building to its former glory. Blue island has become a spawning site for all future Blue Dragons.

Main Building: Dragon Bank

Owner: Red Dragon General Baku

Sub commander: Quill

Island: Red Island

The main island specializes in finance and business. Dragon Bank is the main Bank that runs throughout the Kingdom of Draconis. It is possible to restore the building to its former glory. The red island has become a natural spawning site for all future Red Dragons.

Main Building: Stargazer

Owner: Green Dragon General Kai

Subcommander: Leona

Island: Green Island

A natural forest that specializes in astrology, breeding, farming, and agriculture. It is a sacred ground for the Cat People to gain their lost power. It is possible to restore the building to its former glory. Green island has become a natural spawning site for all future Green Dragons.

Main Building: Hero Concert Hall

Owner: Bronze Dragon General Val

Sub commander: Ponza

Island: Bronze Island

Show business, a tourist attraction for new and upcoming artists. It is possible to restore the building to its former glory. Bronze Island has become a natural spawning site for all future Bronze Dragons.

Main Building: Embassy Twin Sky

Owner: Silver Dragon General Bee

Sub commander: Tanmint

Island: Silver Island

Two large skyscraper buildings, an epicenter for ambassadors of different countries and cities, reside on this Silver island. It is possible to restore the building to its former glory. Silver Island has become a natural spawning site for all future Silver Dragons.

Main Building: War Command Center

Owner: Black Dragon General Valiant

Sub commander: Reed

Island: Black Island

War embassy that specializes in war combat and strategies. It is possible to restore the building to its former glory. Black Island has become a natural spawning site for all future Black Dragons.

Main Building: Peacekeeper Command Center

Owner: Gold Dragon General Seka

Subcommander: Bee

Island: Gold Island

Peace embassy that specializes in domestic affairs. It is possible to restore the building to its former glory. Gold Island has become a natural spawning site for all future Gold Dragons.

Main Building: School of White Shadows

Owner: White Dragon General Den

Sub commander: Elfon

Island: Silver Island

We specialize in information gathering, sabotaging, infiltration, and martial arts. It is possible to restore the building to its former glory. White Island has become a natural spawning site for all future White Dragons.

The Draconis Library Status has changed to Sky City Draconis in your window.

Sky City Draconis

Draconis Library building was stationed in the City of Terra. It was once a library of an ancient race of Drezo Regalia. Since accepting a new Krustallos, it has accepted a new guardian and owner. The building has come alive as the old mechanical workings begin anew. Old magic has rekindled, and the magical defensive barrier around the Library has gone into effect. It has now perfectly become the center of the Draconis Library and the residential home of the Dragon Prince.

Eight new buildings have appeared and linked with the Draconis Library, creating it into the Sky City Draconis. Draconis Library is the epicenter of the nine flying islands. Each of the outer islands is inhabited by the Eight Dragon Generals under the leadership of Dragon Prince Zero.

Guardian: Zero

Krustallos Energy: 8923

Magical Defense: 2354

Culture: 753

Military Power: 1550

Economy: 780

Regional influence: 0

Technology: 540

Regional politics: 0

Faith: 930

Development: 834

Fame: 3882

Sanitation: 530

Specialties: Information

Population: 3,598

Monthly tax Revenue: 1764 gold

Information:

- The Lunar race and Leprechauns have placed their complete allegiance to you and have become a citizen of Draconis Library. They are happy with the increase in military power.

- The Cat People have placed their complete allegiance to you and now reside near and around the Stargazer.

- Magma magic Level 3 has begun to churn out new land around the nine major buildings, bringing in new soil and space for buildings to be built.

- Levitation magic Level 3: This building, at this moment, can only stay aloof high above the trees. It must land for four hours every noon to recharge its magic.

-Fire magic barriers have been disabled, allowing guild battles and raids to occur.

- Full-scale reconstruction magic has gone underway on nine major buildings.

- Drezo Regalia curse suppression level 3:The curse of the Drezo Regalia has been canceled only in the Draconis Library area and around 80 miles of land. All Drezo Regalias can shift and change without the consequences of the limiter.

- With the introduction of the eight ancient buildings, the Dragon's hope for the future has become bright and bountiful.

- 3x the number of dragon eggs born in the Sky City Draconis.

- Birth has increased by 2x. From the wealth of new lands being formed, the increase in residents has ensured.

- New tourist attraction, the eight buildings, has opened up to the public. The residents need more buildings to live in. Construction of homes, apartments, and villas is underway.

- Increase in security is needed around the other islands. Theft has increased inside the city.

Three new species have been opened up for players to choose from Lunar Rabbit, Leprechauns, and the Cat People. The starting point for these special classes will be in Sky City Draconis.

Zero gulped. He could not believe his eyes. The eight buildings had helped form the Sky City Draconis. His lips were already curling up into a wide grin, making him excited at the many possibilities.

"Zero! Zero!" M2 shouted behind him. Zero turned around to see M2 and hundreds of Cat People running toward him. They surrounded him in excitement.

"M2. What's going on?" Zero was slightly startled at the sudden swarm of Cat People surrounding him.

"The Sacred Grounds. You found it!"

"I did?" Zero needed clarification. Then it hit him; one of the main buildings' descriptions talked about the Sacred grounds for the Cat People to travel to. It was the Stargazer building that Leona owned. "I mean, yea."

"We can not thank you enough!" Elder Miki bowed with happiness. "Please take this." She brought out the reward and handed it to him.

Quest completion of Bringing the Cat People to the Sacred grounds of the Dragon.

Reward: 300 blessed seeds + Cat's Eye Ring

Cat's EyeRing

A special ring that has a small crystal that looks like a cat's golden eye. It has a special property to help increase one's reflexes and speed. You will always land on your feet like a cat.

+33 Agi

+12 Luck

"Please, let us live near the sacred grounds. We have nowhere else to go." Elder Mako asked.

"Sure, but I think you might have to talk directly with Kai if you want to live inside the building."

"Thank you. Once again, you are our lifesaver." Elder Mako bowed. He then excitedly started to jog towards the Observatory building Stargazer. All the rest of the Cat People excitedly pushed forward in hype as their cheers slowly died off.

Draconis Library's gathering of residents' quests has been updated.

The Draconis Library has come alive from its ancient slumber. As the guardian of the building, one must take care of a special building given to a Drezo Regalia to watch over. Residents with different skills and species must be willing to move into the Sky City Draconis. Please go out and find residents for the area. More than having the same race will be necessary.

As the new guardian of the Sky City Draconis, one must invest in the future of the building. Continuously investing in the growth of the Library will help bring wisdom and knowledge to different races worldwide. Completely invest in the building of Draconis Library and see it flower into something new.

Renovation of the building: 80/100

Percentage of traders gathered: 100%

Difficult: B

Reward: Increase in handing out higher level quests and information.

Failure: Loss of productivity and eventually the loss of the building.

"This is truly amazing," M2 spoke excitedly. "We'll be going now. I'll contact you later to talk about some other things."

"I gotcha." Zero nodded with a smile. M2 bounded forward just as quickly as he appeared.

"Now that's quite a spectacle. Who would've thought that the Pyramid of Light would become the buildings that makeup Sky City Draconis?" Agnis spoke in awe.

"I know, right." Zero started with a satisfied smile. The village had transformed into a city, even though it was not big. From his guess, so far, the population of this city was only 3,000+, but from the increasing land, he got a good feeling that more dragons and players would be born.

"You guys should go and get your quest completed," said Zeraph. He was examining everything and carefully watched what would happen next. "I'm going to log off for a bit. I'll see you guys later."

"Okay." Both Zero and Agnis spoke. Zero disappeared right after, leaving only them behind.

"Well then, shall we go as partners?" Agnis asked with a smile. She walked over and grabbed his spine, and pulled herself back up.

"I'm ready when you are." Zero waited till she settled herself in.

"Ready~"

Zero bolted downwards, making his way down the winding stairs on the side of the island. He jumped off the edge and landed on the tallest building with a thud. Then, jumping from one building to another, he made it safely down.

The people who were watching scattered like roaches when they saw Zero's large body approach the ground. A deep indentation formed on the ground, and a large puff of dust blew outwards. People coughed from the small dust storm, and a large gold and black Dragon stood in the middle when the dust finally cleared away.

People gasped in shock at the large Dragon standing before them. Many stepped back in fear, and others stared at him in awe. A puff of smoke escaped from Zero's nose as he searched his surroundings for the Elven castle.

All around him, residents and players were back to their normal appearance. The beautiful city was brimming with life.

Zero bolted forward when he found what he was looking for. He squeezed through buildings, jumped from one to another, and even had to tiptoe through some tight corners till he finally made it to the giant castle in the middle of the city.

He couldn't help but stare in awe at the majestic splendor of the castle. It was a perfect harmonization of nature and the building into one. It didn't take him long before he changed into his human form to enter through the gates, and they eventually made their way toward the throne room where the Elven Queen sat.

On the beautiful, enthroned chair sat a breathtaking Elven Queen. Her golden hair was laced with a plant-like crown. Even her S-line figure could be seen through her simple green queenly dress. Nothing was revealed, but it still left much to one's imagination, drawing in the male's attention.

"Welcome young dragon, or should I say Prince of Dragons?" Elven Queen Jenny softly spoke with a graceful smile. Anyone who saw her grace and beauty couldn't look away.

Zero saw Elrond and his companion there in front of the Elven Queen. He was talking to her for

a moment and stopped to turn around. He bowed and stood back up straight. "I am glad to see that the curse has been lifted by your majesty, though how did you know?"

"I knew that you and your kind would be able to break the curse. Not only that, you have your father's eyes and mother's soft features; I would never forget the face of the Queen and King of Drezo Regalia, for they have been our allies since ancient times. I had wondered where your kind had gone; rumors had floated around for centuries that the Demon Prince and his minions had wiped out your kind. I am glad to see that your people are thriving once again, but it seems you were born in harsher times than your parents." The Elven Queen furrowed her brow and sighed. Her lips wrinkled up and became a straight line. "I am sorry I had to push you through such rough ordeals. I know that you do not look upon my people favorably right now, but please forgive me for the rough treatment you have to go through."

"No, you had your reasons. I understand why you had to go through with them." Zero carefully spoke. He knew that if he angered the Queen of the Elven Kingdom, they could be all blocklisted from entering the city, causing unnecessary headaches that he did not want to go through.

"I thought you would voice a very strong opinion." The Elven Queen was searching for Zero.

"Please do not be mistaken. In my haste, I allowed an evil dragon into this world." Zero slowed down his words and thought it over seriously, "I am not pleased with how you handled my kind as if we were some wild animal." The word wild animal was stressed, punctuating how much he disliked that treatment.

The Elven Queen was silent for a moment, and then she broke into a graceful smug grin. "For someone so young, you have quite the courage, young Prince. I am pleased to see that your people have the backbone to fight back and not cower upon an attack. You have passed flawlessly."

"Are you, by chance implying that it was all a test? You have lost quite a few lives at our hands."

"My people know what they were doing, but some who are considered outsiders did not think beforehand and got themselves killed. We have also been challenged, young Prince, for we wanted to know if the dragons came back weak, but now that your kind has proven yourself, we know that our allies are still strong. This, I am very glad to hear. So with this, your quest is cleared."

Quest Elven Queen's Favor has been Completed.

The Elven Queen smiled. "I believe that Krustallos would like to go with you." A large crystal the size of a man's fist was brought out by an elven maiden and placed in Zero's giant dragon hands. He stared down upon it with surprise.

A special Reward is given: Green Krustallos.

Green Krustallos

All information about the Green Krustallos is still being determined, but it is known that it is from a Drezo Regalia. There is calm energy coming from the Krustallos.

This Krustallos could mean only one thing, it was possibly an ancient dragon's Krustallos that harbors great power. He needed to bring it to the Draconis Library to activate its special contents.

"Are there any other questions that you would like to ask?"

"Actually, yes." Zero put away the Krustallos. "Are you by any chance the daughter of Heroes Lilith and Samael?"

The names caught the Eleven Queens off guard. Her lips began to curl into a gentle smile. "Yes. They are my mother and father. I have heard from the young Prince that my mother had turned into a monster." Her voice was saddened by the thought of her dead mother.

"The truth, your majesty, was that the demon's blood contaminated your mother. It was not her wish to cause havoc on the kingdom that she worked painstakingly to protect. Though Dion, the vampire that was destroyed in the last major event, I'm not sure; I have seen the atrocities he created in the mansion.

The Eleven Queen was quiet for a moment, the air became stifled at the news that Zero brought her, but eventually, she settled down. "Dion had been my friend and caretaker since I was born. To hear that he has become warped breaks my heart. I thought I had lost my friend to death, but it seemed I was wrong. Once again, thank you for the information." She made her way up from her chair and walked down towards Zero.

She then stopped in front of him and looked up at his golden eye that seemed to stare down at her from above. "With that young Prince. I have nothing more to say."

Elron walks up forward towards Zero. With a grin on his face, he spoke. "Hey, Zero."

"What's up?"

"My friend and I will be joining the city. I heard it was unsafe for my friend to be roaming around outside the perimeter of Draconis City. But, there is a price on our head from the Kingdom of Terra."

"I expected as much." Zero furrowed his eyes.

"No matter, stay in this city for a while. The Queen will give her your protection, you know."

Zero nodded. "I was planning on staying a bit after what Russ had pulled."

"I see. That's wonderful to hear. Well then, I have a couple of things to do. So I'll see you around."

Elron departed and went back towards the elven Queen.

Zero looked towards the Elven Queen and bowed, leaving Agnis out the door. From there, they went back towards the Sky City Draconis. He then made his way toward the Draconis Library and placed the Green Krustallos onto the eight pedestals. A flash of green light shot outwards into a dust of smoke. Fire, Water, Earth, and Air elemental energy swirls outwards and forms into

a large green dragon with open wings.

A gust of spring smell of leaves and tree sap tickles his nose. Then, with a thundering roar, the green Dragon bellowed outwards. The Library shook, and the people stared at Zero in shock. For a second, they thought that Zero was the one that caused the loud scene but eventually found out that it was not so.

The Legendary Green Dragon Randall

Randall was one of the great generals of the True Dragon. Gifted with a natural affinity to the elemental power, Randal could call up natural disasters with just a word when angered. His sweet and docile tendency did not always push him toward the edge, but when push came to shove, he used his power to benefit nature. However, he was not fond of the destructive behavior of humans, orcs, dark elves, and demons.

Only True Dragons and a powerful Drezo Regalias may touch the Krustallos without one's soul being taken away. Another famous name for this Krustallos is the Jaded Emperor.

A legendary Krustallos from a True Dragon, its famous name is called the Soul-Taker Obsidian.

+10% status increase for all green dragons and hybrid dragons with green Dragon blood for the day when near the Sky City Draconis.

Special: An elemental barrier is always in effect around the Sky City Draconis, giving a No kill zone inside the city wall among players. There is also a special barrier that repels low-level demons and monsters under level 100.

With a wide grin, he felt that Sky City was becoming stronger and giving players and residents a haven to grow up. Not only that, the coffers of gold have been increasing daily as new players and dragons are born every day, giving the city another source of circulation to help build the city quickly. More and more outsiders who wanted to live in the new city walls were slowly increasing, especially after the new addition of islands that were spread around the main island.

Zero checked his status menu to see how much he had grown.

Name: Zero

Title: Prince of Dragons, Beacon of Hope, Sacred Friendship, Neighborhood Child Finder.

Race: Drezo Regalia

(human form)

Level: 210

Main Job: Record Keeper of Historia

Secondary Job: Scribe

Health points: 20,513

Mana Points: 18,761

Attack: 1788 (+65)

Defense: 1456 (+38)

Agility: 980 (+55)

Endurance: 850 (+55)

Luck: 720 (+95)

Leadership: 780 (+45)

Magical Attack: 1650 (+5)

Magical Defense: 1550 (+5)

Wisdom: 902 (+5)

Intelligence: 950 (+5)

Dexterity: 1456 (+5)

Fame: 3540 (+40)

Under a Companion Contract with Agnis.

For All:

+ Transform Intermediate level 1

+ Intimidation

+ Camouflage beginner level 9

+ The last stand (Auto)

+ Creation of Oculus-Morpheus beginner level 6

+ Recording of O.M

+ Destruction of O.M

+ Restoration of O.M

+ Seeded (Psychic Ability)

+ Telepathy beginner level 4

+ Astral Projection beginner level 2

+ Clairvoyance beginner level 2

+ Third Eye beginner level 6

+ Communication with the dead (Active)

+ Sixth Sense

+ Clairsentience beginner level 7

+ Sensing the dead (Active)

+ Clairaudience beginner level 2

+ Keen Hearing beginner level 9

Human Form Specialties:

+ Trinity Falls

+ Ninjutsu Training for Mastery

+ Five Elements of Hiding: Fire, Water, Earth, Wood, and Void (Auto)

+ Weapon Mastery beginner level 5

+ Pressure points beginner level 5

+ Herbology

+ Creation of Medicine

+ Skilled hand mastery intermediate level 3

+ Kicking Mastery intermediate level 3

Origin Form Specialties:

+ Stink Bomb Intermediate level 1

+ Exploding Breath Intermediate level 1

+ Fire Breath Intermediate level 1

+ Keen Nose Intermediate level 1

+ Crush Intermediate level 1

+ Dark Fire beginner level 8

+ Holy Fire beginner level 8

+ Summoning of the Undead level 4

Hybrid form Specialties:

+ All the abilities of the Human and Origin Form can be used.

Elements: 15% increase in defense against dark elements, 7% increase in light against light elements,

Info: A hybrid human that is born from an Egg. The title Beacon of hope draws in lost souls that will appear before you to ask for help. Your aura will stand out to the dead. Shadowy dark apparitions are wary around you. There are no more bounties set on your head. In Origin form, the status is doubled from the human form.

His growth rate was extraordinary, especially since his leveling from 150 to 250 was getting much slower to the point where grinding in a lower level would take ages even to get one percent. What he especially looked forward to was his levels from 200 to 250. He could feel a slight itch from his back that he would spontaneously get throughout random intervals of the day. He did not know when his wings would pop out, but he hoped it would be very soon. Flying in the sky made him shiver with delight, and he could not wait till that day.

Agnis came over next to him. "Zero, I got some news you need to know."

"Sure, what's up?"

"Russ has taken over the whole Kingdom of Terra."

"W-what?! So soon?" Zero was shocked at how quickly Russ was moving to take over the kingdom.

"It's been a month, Zero. A Lot had happened when we were all inside the pyramid grinding away. So it shouldn't be that big of a surprise that he took it over. I had a feeling it was bound to happen sooner or later."

"Yea," Zero furrowed his eyebrows. He did not like the thought of what Russ might do with all that power, especially his vendetta against him and the dragons he had fought in the past month. Not only that, but he also had a black dragon soul that went into his body, making Zero worry with unease. "It just feels a bit sudden. He must be the first player to take over a kingdom."

"I wouldn't say he has full control over the kingdom. He is the right-hand man of the new king, making his voice powerful in governing the place. But that's not all; it has become a kill-on-sight order on all dragons that enter their territory."

"That I expected as much. That blasted the king and his greed. He couldn't let go of what wasn't his. If he does attack, I'll make sure I rain down fire on his army."

"Though Russ hasn't made a move yet to come after us. My guess is because we are in the elven kingdom that protects us from being overrun by them. I'm glad we moved down here, or we would've been toast. The best part is that he's been officially kicked out of the WaterRose Guild. Lilac didn't have his BSing attitude." She gave Zero a delighted smile. "I wouldn't be surprised if Sekka told Lilac everything that had transpired, and his rough attitude towards new players had gotten him in trouble countless times. He's been officially kicked out since a month ago."

"Now? That's a load off our shoulders. I did not want to have one of the twelve large guilds chasing us. To hear that the WaterRose guild has no relation with him anymore gives a load off our shoulders."

"I agree." Agnis nodded her head. "It seems Hercules' guild has been doing well. Aldrin and his guild are making quite a name for themselves in the Kingdom of Tarro. They had already set up their official guild home there and even got a piece of land. If I remember correctly, he got a title of a Duke, though it does not compare to yours or Russ's. His guild is still becoming bigger and bigger, rivaling head to head with other guilds."

"You know what surprised me the most?"

"What?"

"The O.M memory."

"Yea, I never knew you were a prince."

"Same…" Zero went silent.

"Well, does that make me a princess?" Agnis was getting excited.

"Um... that's only if you marry me."

"Hah? Did you propose to me?"

"No….." Zero was fidgeting. "I think it only applies to me. Not only that. The prince of dragons is just a title."

"Boo, you spoil the sport. Here I thought I would be some princess for a change. Life's not fair."

"Well, that's nothing much I can do about it."

Agnis smirked. "Yes, you can. Hand me the title."

"Hah?!" Zero was a bit taken aback. His eyes became wide.

"I'm joking. Don't give me that retarded look." Agnis laughed. "I'll be fine with the Royal Dragon Knight."

"Royal Dragon Knight? Did you get such a title?"

"Yep," Agnis said with a smile.

"Your title sounds a bit cooler than mine."

"I think something is wrong with your head. Prince of Dragons sounds cool enough."

Zero gave her a shrug. To him, it sounded like an arrogant title. He, for sure, wouldn't wave it around and instead keep it hidden as much as possible. However, being in the center of attention can become a hindrance at times.

He thought he saw a familiar figure not too far away from him. The same black hair, eyes, and nose, just like his, walking inside the Draconis Library. He scrubbed his eyes to ensure he did not see things, but when he started again, the exact familiar figure was present.

"Kyle?" Zero unconsciously spoke out loud. "Kyle?" His feet started to pick up in a hustle to get towards the figure walking towards the middle of the Six Hero statues that overlook the Library. Soft light gave him a ghostly look as if he was not part of the world.

"Zero?" Agnis called out from behind, wondering what was going on. Then, she started to follow him toward the same destination as Zero.

"Kyle!" Zero shouted. People move out of the way, trying not to get run over. The same messy hair, tall and lean, with a hint of mischief, was present on the person's face. When Zero called out to him, the person looked over his shoulder and temporarily met him eye-to-eye.

At that moment, Zero knew his brother was standing in the middle of the room. Kyle opened his mouth, slowly wording phrases that Zero did not completely get, but the few words he did read off of Kyle's lips.

'....Well done.' Zero reads from Kyle's lips.

A blaring red message appeared in front of Zero, temporarily catching his attention.

Special Announcement: The Kingdom of Tano, the Kingdom of Terra, and the Kingdom of Elements will send expedition forces to retrieve the three Holy Relics of their kingdom. There will be limited space and level requirements to join the expedition. It is on a first-come, first-serve basis. The level requirement needs to be over level 150, and the total available spaces are 10,000. This is a level B Quest. The recruitment will begin on November 25, 2054; please head towards the nearest enlistment in your local city for early bird enlistment.

When the message disappeared, Zero searched for his brother but did not find him anymore. He was frustrated that the game message made him lose his chance.

"Zero, are you okay?" Agnis walked over next to him, worried.

Zero was silent for a moment. He was angry that one second caused Zero to lose sight of his brother completely. "Yeah, I'm fine. Let's go."

"Are you sure? You don't want to talk about it?"

"I" m fine. Let's go and sign ourselves up."

Agnis worriedly watched over Zero, but she did not say anything more. They both turned around, left the Draconis Library, and headed toward the requirement area.