#Ugauc

[dragon-fics]

SR: Ch. 7 Heal

Chapter summary: After reuniting with Ugauc, Alys must make a decision about her future.

CW for character death

Prologue, Ch. 1, Ch. 2, Ch. 3, Ch. 4, Ch. 5, Ch. 6, Ch. 7

Please like and/or reblog to help share my work if you like it. One shot requests are open (x Reader) as are commissions are my patreon (as well as wee bonuses if you can afford. Thank you

Trying to be peaceful with the elves was aggravating, Alys had more pressing matters to deal with. While the others attempted to gain entry peacefully, promising up and down that nothing drastic would happen, she slipped out of the infirmary. She felt Ugauc’s mind get closer, but he refused to open up. From what she could sense from him though, he hurt. Every molecule hurt. From his green scales to his white bones. She found the large makeshift dragon infirmary and slipped through its flap.

A wide mix of smells hit her. The poisonous Seithr oil was the most potent, then the dragon blood. The softer scents of the salves and creams were the last to be identified. She saw lines and lines of bottles and vials, stacks of bandages and a large tank of clean water. Alys knew every bottle and its use. Everything from disinfecting spirits to the strongest cream she knew existed to treat burns. It was all there.

Do they even know how to help him? Are things that bad? Why didn’t they call for me?!

Why are they making him suffer?

Her body still burned all over, worse now from being so close to him. Alys glanced around, finding the split to get to the other side. She took in a deep breath and stepped through, bolstering herself for what was to come.

But it wasn’t enough. Nothing could prepare her for the state of Ugauc.

He was no longer green. Alys didn’t even recognise him anymore.

He barely looked like a dragon.

Suddenly, Alys’ body grew weak. Not with physical pain alone, but shame, guilt, and the most debilitating sorrow. It was a new level of pain. A soul crushing, heart destroying pain.

His neck had a deep wound either side and his back was dotted with shallow but numerous punctures. His scales were black surrounding his injuries. Each one was wrapped or patched up but pointlessly. Pitch-like ooze soaked his bandages and scales—nothing had healed during the past two months. In fact, he looked worse, far worse. What scales weren’t black where a dull green and wore an oily sheen. He was on his deathbed. There was no healing in all of Alagaësia that could save him.

A soft whine left Ugauc and his shifted his head the slightest bit.

Alys could barely make him out as her vision drowned in tears. “Oh Ugauc…” She tried to click her tongue like a dam dragon, but failed. She knelt by his head and held his face.

His shallow breathing lifted his body on the mattress he rested on. He flicked his tongue out, grazing Alys’ wrist. Al…

“Don’t.” Alys tried to sound strong as she pressed a kiss to his head. “D-Don’t…” She swallowed hard.

Ugauc said nothing. He opened his eyes slowly. They didn’t hold the striking topaz colour like before. Now they were a pale yellow.

Alys lifted her head to looked at him. “I-I didn’t know… Th-They said—They said they could heal you!”

He closed his eyes. I know…

Her lip pouted suddenly and quivered. She was about to bawl harder than she ever had. Her time was limited. She couldn’t afford to cry. “T-Tell me what you want.”

He was silent, his slow and raspy breathing filling the tent.

“Ugauc!” Alys pressed, desperate.

El… Eldunarí, he forced himself to say.

Alys wiped her face and nodded, gedwëyignasia glowing. Let me help you. She whispered unintelligibly, offering her strength to Ugauc.

She had heard descriptions of the disgorging of a dragon’s Heart of Hearts. That it was a powerful and moving moment of trust and solidarity, a true show of awe for the relation between a dragon and its Rider.

This was not that.

It was an exhausting struggle for Ugauc. Alys was tense just watching him lurch and tremble with effort. She stroked his face and offered all her strength to him—it was all she could do. Eventually, his Eldunarí landed onto her lap and she sighed with relief.

Alys looked at the green gem, feeling Ugauc’s mind as her own. He was exhausted, barely even there. She lay the Heart by his head and kissed his scales. “You can go, Ugauc.” She pressed her forehead to his and watched his eyes closed slowly.

Ugauc slowly exhaled and his body stilled completely. An empty expanse was left in Alys’ mind, where he had always occupied since his hatching.

Alys squeezed her eyes shut and let her tears roll down, slowly for now. She made a pouch with her shirt and put his Eldunarí into it. She forced herself to her feet and with a few words, cremated Ugauc’s body in seconds with a green fireball.

She grabbed one of the spirits, took a swig and shook her head as the taste assaulted her. Alys dumped the liquid onto the ground and, with a wave of her hand, gathered his ashes and put them in the body. A far from worthy urn, but she promised it was only temporary. She felt too much, and it all had to wait.

She stomped out of the tent, putting the cork in Ugauc’s urn and bunched her fists.

He had suffered. He had died slowly. In the name of what? Fear? Adversion? Judgement?

Alys’ tears were hot on her face now, relentless. Her heart was aching with guilt. All she wanted was for her dragon to not suffer and somehow, this was the only solution to that. Death.

She fell to her knees, hugging Ugauc’s Heart and urn. “You didn’t deserve this…” she sobbed silently, doubling over.

Her heart was destroyed, full of agony and hollow of love. Her partner-of-mind-and-soul was gone… until he gained his strength back. But Alys would never again hold him, touch him. He’d never dress himself up again.

Her thoughts were a frenzy. The wave of realisation of what everything meant for her now. She may as well be a ghost without her beloved Ugauc.

Alys didn’t know how long she sobbed alone for. But what brought her out of it was the coolness brought upon by a huge shadow. Company. She realised many minds were close by, watching her. But what had caught hr attention was a large body standing in front of her, draping something heavy over her to hide her from the prying eyes and minds. Minds that had access to hers now. Or did.

She swallowed hard, her throat swollen and raw, and lifted her head.

A blurry, slim, black form appeared beside her, and lowered its head, shining blue eyes lighting up the canopy it had created with its body.

“Shr-Shruikan?” Alys swiped her face.

His mind hugged hers and formed a protective wall for her. I’m here, Alys. Take your time. They won’t see you at your most vulnerable. He lay down, still shielding her with himself.

Alys flopped against him, letting her body and mind work through her emotions. Her vision didn’t clear, and her face didn’t dry until the sun was long gone. She stood up, letting Ugauc rest on the ground—he was still exhausted.

She peeked out between Shruikan’s wing and his body. Everyone was gone now, only creatures of the night lingered in the forest, too far away to be felt. But Aly’s mind was numb and tired. Her entire body was.

She touched Shruikan’s shoulder and his eye snapped open. He was still protecting her mind long after everyone had gone.

He raised his head and they looked at each other for a few silent moments. Alys leaned on his neck.

“Shruikan… lets get out of here please. I need to get away from here.”

Warmth enveloped her mind, like a snug blanket on a winter’s morning. Let’s go then. We have no business here.

*~*~*~*

The next few weeks were strange. Strange and silent. Grief filled Alys. A new, calm grief. Not the violent sorrow she’d experienced when she came back to the academy before.

Maybe it was Ugauc’s Eldunarí, or having Shruikan to focus on, but she was more at peace now. There were times when the easiness would lift and heartbreak would force her into a ball on her bed, or wherever she was. It put everything to a hold until Alys relieved it all she felt. It was an awful, almost daily, process to experience.

She didn’t return to teaching or to the nursery. Others had to cover that. Alys couldn’t face it. The young dragons. The Riders. How could she? It would not be a useful distraction. But she knew what would be.

“Why?” Eragon snapped his head up at her when she told him. His office was warm on that autumn afternoon. They were alone with the fire crackling in a corner and tobacco wafting in the air.

“I have to. I’m no use here and here is not where I should be.” Alys crossed her arms. She’d thought about it for too long. Her decision was made. It was foolproof by now. She’d only put it off out of fear and needing to arrange things.

“Where will you go?” the headmaster stood up quickly.

Alys was unmoving. “West. Surda or Ilirea.”

“And what will you do?” Eragon looked at her harshly, judgement creasing his brow.

She shrugged. “Heal. Maybe track down some dragon murders.” He scowled. “You’ve gotten nowhere with your hunt for who killed Ugauc,” she said before he could spout off. “Maybe I’ll try to. Don’t worry. I’ll come to you if I find anything.” Alys sighed. “I have no urge to kill them, just to connect the dots. I’ll mainly stay away from it until I’m done grieving. To avoid impulse. I have no need for vengeance. Only tea, cake and a nice fire with my crochet.”

Eragon drew in a long breath and looked out the window, seeing the newest Riders taking flight with their dragons. He watched them for a few moments, trying to coax Alys to look, she did not. Finally, he said; “And what of Shruikan?”

“He and his Eldunarí will come with me. That is his wish. We’ll heal together, as the Eldunarya wanted.”

He turned to her. “Where are you planning to go exactly?”

Alys tried not to roll her eyes. “To my family in Surda. Probably to the estate or something where Shruikan will be comfortable. I’ve arranged to help Nasuada in the spring. You’ll be well able to keep tabs on me if you wish. I’ve no plans for mass-murder nor conquering the land and wiping out the Order.”

“That’s not what—Fine. I’ll try scrying you to make sure things are all right then? Is that agreeable?”

She didn’t like it. She wanted to get away from the Academy. “Fine. With a mirror though. I won’t be spied on.”

He was silent again, considering her words. He sat at his chair again, slipping his pipe between his lips. “Very well. When do you leave?”

“Tomorrow. I’ve already dealt with my belongings, either sold them or I��ll bring them. The room will be ready for someone else once I’m gone.” Alys watched him.

Eragon puffed out a narrow stream of smoke and drew in a long breath. “May the wind rise under your wings, and the sun always be at your back.”

End

[dragon-fics]

SR: Ch. 6 Ch. 6 Du Weldenvarden

Chapter summary: The journey begins to reunite Alys and Ugauc...

Prologue, Ch. 1, Ch. 2, Ch. 3, Ch. 4, Ch. 5, Ch. 6, Ch. 7

Please like and/or reblog to help share my work if you like it. One shot requests are open (x Reader) as are commissions are my patreon (as well as wee bonuses if you can afford. Thank you

Do you think the elves will continue to stand in your way? Shruikan’s voice was gentle as he glided behind the three other dragons. The sky was a pretty blue against the wide reach of the green below, and his black scales attracted a lot of the sun’s heat.

Alys sighed, physically and mentally. Probably. But maybe with their queen by our side, they’ll let me in.

A hum came from him, vibrating Alys a little. I hope so. If there is no way to save him, even with your knowledge of healing, it’d be best to… he trailed off, knowing Alys would fill in the blanks.

She nodded. I have a feeling it’s the only way. I just… hope there’s enough in him to keep his Heart alive.

A melancholy feeling came from Shruikan. Ah, he still has his in him? You would be so kind.

We’ve learned from his actions. Her gaze drifted downward, the wind picking up her braids. We know better than to control dragons. I honestly didn’t expect you to be so eager to come with me. She smiled softly, her chest feeling warm as she remembered Shruikan’s threatening stance behind her in Ilirea. It’s nice having you on my side, especially by your own will. She knew sombre things were ahead.

Shruikan radiated a similarly warm mind. Alys found it comforting to experience all his feelings, or a fraction of them. She never knew if it was all his emotions. There was so little shared.

Arya shouted something to Alys. She looked at her and nodded, pretending like the wind didn’t mute what she’d said. Fírnen dove to the side and the other two dragons followed.

I guess we do that too. Alys mused and Shruikan followed them. She lurched forward in her saddle and Shruikan shifted his wings and tail to adjust his descent. He still struggled with this part of flying, learning the impact of his new size and mass.

Alys felt something tug at her heart and she looked at Shruikan as he evened out above the sea of leaves and branches. The smaller dragons flew below him.

“Is something wrong?” she asked him with mind and mouth. She touched the scales of his lower neck, smoother and healthy now.

You know I’ve been here before… His mind and body were quiet, even his huge wings had enough air to just glide for a while.

I know. You don’t have to go all the way in. I’ll ride with one of the others. She wanted to comfort him, feeling his anxiety shiver through her.

No. He beat his wings. I want to make sure you get to him unopposed. I might be enough to make that happen.

Without thinking, she asked; Is that what you want? She didn’t know if it was her staring or if he hesitated, but she felt like a league of flying was done before he answered.

Yes. I do. I may as well use my past for good. Pay you back a smidge.

Alys couldn’t help but giggle. His voice was too tired and rough sounding for “smidge” to be part of his vocabulary. She felt his satisfaction; he’d set out to make her laugh.

Her good humour was cut short when she lurched forward and grunted. “What?!” She looked over Shruikan’s shoulder at the sea of leaves below. The other Riders and dragons had disappeared. She grumbled softly to herself and Shruikan glided around to find a place to land. He found a clearing large enough for him to stumble to a halt in.

Alys stroked his neck and looked around. She extended her mind, meeting the other Riders’. “That way.” She pointed.

Shruikan edged his way through the trees, wings tucked in, head and body low. He grumbled softly, irritated by the closed space. He stumbled on a couple of upturned roots and did his best to dodge thick branches.

Alys touched his neck and blindingly bright scarlet assaulting her mind. “I could get off and look for somewhere better for you to move through?”

He shook his head harshly. No. This is probably the quickest way. I’ll be fine. Just some cramped muscles, I’m sure. He snorted and tensed his shoulder, tempted to swipe at the nearest tree to cut it down.

She smiled softly. “If you’re sure. You’re doing really well.” She stroked his shoulder and leaned her body down against him to aid him in his effort, even if it was minuscule from what he was doing.

Shruikan’s mind calmed a little, the loud redness fading with her praise. He sighed, soothing his temper, and crawled through the forest. The small, slender shapes of Thorn, Saphira and Fírnen came into view, gathered in a canopied clearing that couldn’t be seen from above. In the middle of the three dragons were their Riders, discussing in hushed whispers and gesturing far-from-subtly.

Alys grumbled under her breath and had Shruikan continue as he was, as none of them seemed to notice them approaching. Shruikan extended his neck between Thorn and Fírnen, causing both dragons flinched away.

Thorn hissed, spikes on his back flaring, and tried to swipe at Shruikan’s snout. The older dragon just lifted his head away and chuckled mightily. His shuddering body making Alys laugh. Thorn eased but glared at Shruikan even as Murtagh attempted to comfort him.

The clearing was warm, and the light was tinted green from the leaves above. Each leaf came from slender branches that all joined into three large trees, trunks thicker than Shruikan’s original neck. There was a fourth tree, though. It was ash-white, brittle and devoid of any luscious branches like the others.

It made Alys’ heart heavy, bleeding into Shruikan to make her sadness his. Whatever the others were discussing didn’t involve her, but she could help the tree. Healing was her business. It was ironic at a moment like this.

To soothe her sorrow, Shruikan walked to the tree, padding around the group silently. He sniffed at its crumbling bark, causing it to turn to dust by his faintest breath. Do you think it was as mighty as the others?

Probably, she sighed sadly and touched its trunk. A pale powder layered her palm. But the others grew quicker, taking its sunlight. She drew in a breath and whispered faintly. Her wrist shone green as the enchantment got to work. The bark grew strong first, then the trunk extended, and branches grew from it, lined with little green buds.

Shruikan stared as the tree was brought back to life, his heart buzzing and tail spiked like a giddy dragonling.

Alys watched for a moment after it was done, and some buds above the canopy bloomed. “Much better.” She felt the other’s gazes on her, and she turned to face them in unison with Shruikan.

“Let’s go to Ellesméra.” Arya stepped forward. “Let’s get you to Ugauc.”

Shruikan turned himself towards the group and loosened his wings.

[dragon-fics]

SR: Ch. 5 Emotions

Chapter summary: Confronted by the leaders and fellow Riders, Alys is forced to abandon her rationality and speak her mind.

Prologue, Ch. 1, Ch. 2, Ch. 3, Ch. 4

Alys looked among the lead faces and strode forwards with a false sense of confidence. Nasuada stepped towards her, giving Alys a trusting but questioning look. The Dragon Riders stared past her, and Shruikan gave them a good reason to be fearful. His tail lashed through the air, and he lifted his lip in a threatening snarl to ensure they gave him enough space.

Shruikan let out a growl, spotting familiar faces and dragons. Alys put her hand on his snout behind her. “Easy, Shruikan.” He fell silent, but she could still see his tail lashing.

Alys glanced at Nasuada. she called her over with a silent gesture of her hand. Alys begrudgingly stepped away from Shruikan and looked at Eragon. “Can you get them to stand down?” She gestured to the other Riders.

“Explain yourself first! Who is this dragon?” He gestured frantically to Shruikan. “And why did you bring it her?!”

She frowned. “You gave me a mission! You sent me to the Eldunarya, and they sent me to him.” She pointed at Shruikan. “And right now, he’s the only one willing to help me get to Ugauc in time!” She felt Nasuada touch her shoulder, and she gave her a soft look. She forced herself to draw in a breath and calm down. “I’m only here for my things. Then I’ll be gone. I bring no threat,” she said firmly.

“Gone where?” This time, it was Murtagh who spoke.

Alys looked at him. “Ellesméra.” The dragons erupted in a synchronised growl, and she snapped her head around to see what was wrong. Shruikan stepped closer to her, ignoring their sounds of protest. She gently extended an outstretched hand to tell him to ‘stay’.

“You can’t go alone,” Eragon interjected. Alys scowled and looked at him. She thought he glanced down as he came up with an excuse. “Not without a saddle. And we don’t have one big enough for… him.” He looked at Shruikan.

Alys wondered whether he knew that was Shruikan—or if any of them knew. He glanced at Saphira a lot, communicating with her—she presumed. Alys sighed softly. “Fine. Someone will just have to come along.” She felt Shruikan stare at Eragon from behind her.

The leaders looked at each other, and Alys waited impatiently. The three Dragon Riders glanced between themselves, and Alys tried to soften her posture for Nasuada. She needed her cousin on her side.

Her cousin got closer to her, leaving the Riders to their silent discussion. “You earned his trust.” She smiled and looked at Shruikan.

Alys nodded and followed her gaze. “There was effort on both parts.”

“I knew your compassion would guide you.” Nasuada took Alys’ hand. “But you need to think, properly think. Take some deep breaths.”

Alys tightened her jaw. “Have you not heard a single thing I said?” she hissed and pulled her hand away. “My dragon is dying. I can’t wait any longer. The time for thinking is gone. I have to be there for him. I thought you, of all people, would be on my side.” She looked away.

Nasuada looked hurt but forced it down. “All I’m asking is that you take a moment to think before running off with the dragon that had a huge role in the War and damaged a chunk of Du Weldenvarden. You’re allowed to be hurt and grieving, but you can’t act rash or the whole world may turn against you.”

Alys glanced at her. “It seems like the whole world already has. So what’s the harm of ensuring it?” She heard a soft, sad rumble from Shruikan, but her mind was too closed off to allow him to speak to her.

Her cousin stared at her for a moment. “What’s happened to you, Alys? This isn’t you.”

She scowled, a hole growing in her chest as rage and sorrow filled her. “You want to know what happened? My dragon has been suffering for weeks! The people taking care of him won’t let me near him! Every night I hear and feel him suffer and only now has anyone been willing to help me get to him!” It wasn’t until she fell silent she realised how loud it had come out, that everyone in the courtyard, and probably the castle, had heard her. All eyes were on her, dragon, elf, and human. It was also then that she felt the warm tears trickling down her cheeks, and she turned away from Nasuada, hiding it. “Part of me is dying.” Her voice was hoarse and quiet, but firm. “My literal soulmate is dying, and I won’t hide it and pretend anymore. He won’t suffer anymore; I just need to get to him. Or I’ll go insane.”

Alys felt some sympathetic tendrils graze her mind, and she locked herself away. “So, is anyone willing to help me?” Her words came out rather bitterly, but she wouldn’t apologise for it.

“Yes.” Eragon said in a low voice. “We’ll accompany you to Ellesméra.”

Alys nodded. She hadn’t depended on their support but figured getting an agreement was better and looked at Shruikan. “I’ll be back soon.” She strode past the leaders, dragons, Riders and soldiers, quickly passing through the large doors of the keep and up the helix stairs. She packed her bags, taking all her notebooks and some of Galbatorix’s, in case she’d missed something—or needed to distract herself and hide in her not-so-little project.

I think you handled it very well. Shruikan said when she returned to his side.

“Hmm. I don’t know,” she said softly, calmer but not hurting any less. Alys glanced around at the courtyard. Most of the Riders and their dragons remained, but lingered by the walls, while the rest glided above and around the castle. She noticed how Shruikan watched them, curious and in awe from what she could make.

It’s good to release your emotions. He hummed.

Alys shook her head. “Yes but, it was so… loud. I didn’t know I had that in me. I should’ve said it better. Handled it better. I don’t know what happened.” She gently caressed his face. “Maybe the pressure got to me. And the hurt and rage and frustration and it came out like… that.” She sighed, exasperated.

Shruikan pressed his head against her hand. It’s better to let it out. That’s what you told me. They needed to know. And if they weren’t going to help, I’d deal with them. He bared his fangs in false intimidation.

Dragons and Riders looked at them warily, lowering their stance and reaching for weapons.

Alys sighed. “Please try to tone down on the intimidation. I know you mean well, but they don’t yet. So please—” she held his muzzle in both hands, “—try to be as friendly as you can. You’re a good dragon, Shruikan, and I trust you. The others just don’t know you yet.”

Shruikan inclined his head and hummed again. I’ll try for you, Alys.

[dragon-fics]

SR: Ch. 1 A Hard Climb

Chapter Summary: Alys begins her search outside Ilirea grappling her way through stony terrain and cliffs before finally finding a cave late that night, with the dragon she’s searching for.

Prologue, Ch. 1, Ch. 2, Ch. 3

Alys gripped the cold stone, her fingers aching and her shoulders sore. Why hadn’t she taken Murtagh’s offer? Flying over this finger-tearing and boot-wearing landscape would have made her search so much easier.

But alas, she had said no, and no one was going to fly out and find her until sunset.

She looked down, holding onto the grey stone with one hand buried in a crevice just big enough to hold her. She was only a few feet off the ground, but this was her third hard climb this morning in this dark, overgrown, rocky forest—how so much vegetation grew here was a mystery. And from what she could see a league away in the small village she was staying in, these climbs went on for another few leagues, at least.

Alys sighed, looking at the beams of sunlight gracefully blessing the lush forest floor through the thick branches and leaves of the canopy above. Was that the universe trying to show her some sign of hope? Or was it telling her that there was a slim chance she’d actually find this dragon? And even then the chances of them siding with her were even slimmer—like the few flowers she’d seen among the ferns and dock leaves.

She hated to admit it but maybe it was right, maybe she should have been smarter and listened to Ugauc when he sensed something up, instead of being curious and—

Alys cut off that thought and turned around, the swelling growing in her throat again. Not now! She reached her other hand up and found a nook to use to lever herself upward.

She had thought about using magic to get to the top, to teleport herself or to fly herself up, but that felt lazy as though finding the dragon that way would decrease her chances even more or getting them to join her. She wanted to prove herself as a worthy rider to this dragon, to prove she was willing to go above and beyond to help them recover from their loss.

“But is that the best way to do it?” Alys thought aloud—after all the only things to hear her would be the squirrels and crows. “To force them to bind with someone else?”

“I’m not going to force them!” she hissed at herself. “I’m going to give them and option and prove that their addition to the Dragon Riders will be the most helpful.”

But then she realised what she said. She pulled herself onto the plateau and looked up at the next steep climb—it was four times her height. “I can’t just guilt-trip them either,” she said, bundling up her dreadlocks and tying them up with a hair-tie. “I have to prove that we can help them, whether they bond to me or not.”

“But what if they don’t like the thought of being tied to any one person or place?” She shook out her arms and walked on the squidgy moss and under the shadows of the tree to the next cliff to climb. “What if they’d just rather stay here?” Her cloud of uncertainty and despair grew darker.

Alys gripped the stone, finding crevices to lock her fingers into and pulled herself off the ground. “Then I guess I can respect that,” she said, staring at the pale grey stone as she grappled her way up.

She huffed, hoping the spell she cast earlier that morning would work and she wouldn’t have bloody fingers by this evening. “But I still want to help them,” she said. “Umaroth said they were suffering; so surely there’s more than a broken bond that’s hurting them, right? So maybe I can help them with that first? At least then I’d feel better knowing I helped them.”

She sighed and dragged herself up onto the next plateau, her fingers felt like they were nothing with nerves and bone. The tips of her fingers were swollen and in utter agony. “Barzûl,” she swore. She drew in a breath and without uttering a word, her fingertips tingled, and the pain faded; they looked as though she’d barely been climbing at all. Alys bobbed her head, satisfied and started towards the next cliff; this one was five times her height.

She paused and sighed. “For the dragon,” she said, her face hardening. She took a step forward. “For the dragon,” she echoed, reaching for the next crevice to dig her fingers into.

Alys’ climb was long and hard, and she argued with herself the whole way up about the morality of convincing a broken dragon to bond with her, to the point where when she finally stood in front of a cave—the cave the Eldunarí had showed her—she lingered, wondering whether going in was a good idea or not.

The mouth of the cave was huge; as big as the door to Shruikan’s old prison in Ilirea. She could see the walls of the city from where she stood a few leagues away.

Alys felt as though she would enter and never see the light again; that the dark cave would snap her up and swallow her whole like a giant snake and refuse to let her go.

She drew in a breath, trying not to focus on the darkness. “Here I come, mystery dragon,” she mumbled. She held up her hand, glancing at her gedwëy ignasia. “Garjzla,” light, she instructed. An emerald orb of glowing magic formed a close to her palm and she walked forward.

Alys’ hand itched to grab her sword, but she stayed strong, forcing herself to believe that violence and threats would not be needed, nor wanted, today.

The darkness enveloped her as she walked forward. She could feel painful, telepathic tendrils coming from deep inside the cave. She winced feeling her back and neck get sore and a stinging in her left eye. Alys paused, waiting to see if her entire body got sore, as it did during the night when she and Ugauc would randomly connect, and his pain would be hers.

But no other discomfort came.

Alys drew in a breath a straightened her posture—this was the mystery dragon’s pain. She continued forward, she footsteps echoing around her with the empty sound of dripping water. The pale green glowing light illuminated what she needed to see.

She brushed through an inch deep puddle of water, the pain in her back deepening. She pace slowed the farther she went in, as did the pain. Helping this dragon would be her number one priority once they met.

But when the agony was so intense her head began to grow light, a warm breeze washed over her, and a rasping sound surrounded her.

Alys spun around, holding her glowing orb high. The cave fell quiet, and she forced away the pain, blocking her mind. Minutes went by before the air around her was sucked to the side. And minutes later the rasping came again.

It was breathing. Long breaths with long pauses between each one to fill giant lungs.

Alys could almost hear Ugauc say, What were you saying about listening to me more? with a hint or sarcasm.

How big was this dragon?

As big as Shruikan?

As big as Belgabad?

“Hello?” she called. Her voiced echoed around her. “Skulblaka,” she said, walking towards where the warm breeze came from in the chamber. “I was hoping we could talk?”

A low grumble came from close in front of her. Alys inched closer, holding her orb as far out as she could until it reflected against somethings matte black. She reached out, thinking it was part of the cave wall, only to have one of the black somethings fall off at her touch and fall to the floor, shattering into dozens of pieces.

It was a worn dragon scale; she knew the feel of them too well.

And this dragon was very sick.

“I’m here to help you,” she said. “I just want to make sure you’re all right.”

The grumbling came again; this time it was louder, angrier. Pain shot through Alys again, rendering her to her knees. How did you find me?! growled the dragon, his agony hers.

Alys held her hand to her eye. “The… Eldunarí,” she forced out. “They said you needed my help.”

I need no one! he snapped. Leave! He left her mind.

Alys returned the barrier to her mind and pushed herself to her feet. How had he lasted so long in so much pain? “Please,” she pushed on, forging her way to his head. The light of her orb had grown dimmer, but it’s light was enough to spot the glimmer of his eye high above her.

The dragon’s lip lifted as he snarled, flashing stained teeth right in front of Alys’ face.

She peered up at his pale blue eye, ignoring the stench from his mouth. Its pupil had a silver sheen and was surrounded by blood coloured sclera. Something about this blinded eye and a giant dragon sounded familiar.

“Who are you, skulblaka?” Alys asked, standing back and brightening the light from the orb so she could see as much as she could of him.

I… am no one, Shur’tugal. So, leave, he replied dimly, this time not sharing his anguish with her.

Alys wanted to scoff but she bit her tongue, thinking. A dragon this large was unheard of; apart from one… who had been killed by being stabbed in the eye with a Dauthdaert.

“Are you Shruikan?” Alys asked.

The cave stayed silent, until he took another breath. Yes, he said. I… am Shruikan.

[dragon-fics]

SR: Ch. 4 Progress

Summary: After a rough storm forces Alys to stay with him, Shruikan comes to the conclusion that "drastic times call for drastic measures" though they're not that drastic to him.

Prologue, Ch. 1, Ch. 2, Ch. 3, Ch. 4

Shruikan was so excited about going hunting for the first time. Though it took him a while to catch anything. Alys watched him for a little while from her room in the castle, with the aid of a spyglass, and eventually paid him a visit, finding him gnawing on a bone like an adolescent dragon and purring proudly to himself—the purring cleared any nearby wildlife away, shaking the trees and ground, and Alys’ bones.

“Good first hunt?” Alys asked, stepping closer.

Shruikan nodded, almost grinning. Very successful, if you ask me. He puffed out some smoke and continued to purr.

Alys coughed and smiled. “Good. You did very well. I was watching.” He scratched his jaw. She quickly learned that Shruikan responded well to positive reinforcement, though he found it very strange at first for the sole reason that he’d never had a positive thing said to him. Figuring that out made her think of Ugauc, who was always handing out compliments to others.

He purred at her touch, warm happiness passing from him to her, then a trickle of embarrassment. You better not have been judging! He turned his head away defensively.

She shook her head. “Of course, I wouldn’t, Shruikan. You did absolutely wonderful.”

That was a week ago when he could comfortably slip out of the cave. Alys had removed his sustainability spell, so he’d grow hungry and thirsty—for the first time. At first, Shruikan found it quite disorientating, but became accustomed to it soon enough. Alys thought he liked feeling it, that he enjoyed feeling normal. Removing the enchantments on him that hindered his natural being had altered his personality too, at least slightly.

He was calmer, better tempered, and all round, seemed happier. Though he was clingy and quite juvenile, having not had the chance to mentally, emotionally and psychologically mature.

Alys pitied him for it and did her best to be patient with his childlike behaviour. She’d taken care of so many hatchlings she hoped it’d get her through.

With Shruikan starting to hunt, he found it hard to do it with one eye, so next came healing that.

Alys moved her glowing wrist away from Shruikan. The flameless lanterns she’d brought to his lair lit up the cave and, most importantly, him.

He held his eye shut, his large eyelid twitching as the Alys’ spell took its course. She watched silently, desperate to make sure he wasn’t in much discomfort.

Alys looked at the rest of him. Compared to the cavern, he only took up a small amount of space—very different from his original cave-breaking size. He was about the same size as a dragon seven centuries old, about three times the size of Ugauc, and most of the new dragons were. His scales were still in an awful state, though; brittle and damaged. Though a little better with actual nutrients going into his body.

Shruikan opened his eye after a few moments and looked around. This is… different. He blinked several times and stood up slowly, getting used to his new vision. He looked over himself, then the cave.

Alys got to her feet, dusting off her leggings. “I’m hoping a good different.”

Of course. He huffed amusingly. Anything you do is impossible to be bad.

She blinked for a moment. “Thank you.” She looked away, getting bashful.

Shruikan watched her for a moment. I see why they trust you with hatchlings. You have the best intentions for everyone, don’t you?

Alys hesitated; her mind drawn to Ugauc. “Having good intentions isn’t all it takes… there’s perseverance and effort involved as well.”

He hummed. I suppose so. You have enough experience for that.

Alys smiled a little. “I guess so.” She stretched and then heard a wicked wind whistle past the cave and a fierce chill hit her. “Things have really gotten rough out there.” She looked out at the mouth of the cave.

Shruikan followed her gaze. Rain lashed outside and the wind was treacherous. The first storm of the autumn.

She shuddered. “That looks… messy.” As if to add to her statement, lightning sparked from the clouds and struck out in the sky. A deep rumble of thunder followed a few moments later.

Shruikan growled softly, agreeing with her. You better not be planning on going back in that.

Alys shook her head. “No. I’d be insane to do that. I’ll get in contact with someone in Ilirea, let them know I’m staying.” She went to her back and crouched beside it to find her scrying mirror.

He continued to watch the rain spill and stepped towards it. Extending his neck at the entrance, Shruikan felt raindrops slap against his muzzle. He snorted and shook his head, backing up.

Alys tried not to laugh and walked to him with her mirror in hand. “What do you think of it?”

Wet! He grumbled. And cold and sore! Is all rain like this? Why do you like it?

Alys shook her head. “No. not all rain is like this. It's just really heavy because of the warm summer weather. It’s usually lighter, calmer, and soothing to listen to.”

Shruikan hummed and dried his snout on his foreleg, water droplets and scales falling to the floor. I’ll take your word for it. He turned away to go back to his bed of animal hides that Alys had helped to skin and gather.

She smiled softly and used her mirror to contact Eragon, one of the handful of Riders still at Ilirea. At first, a blur of his figure formed, then the mirror came into focus.

“How goes your aiding?” he asked, taking a seat with his mirror.

Alys nodded. “Pretty well. I’ll be staying here until the storm passes.” Lightning lit up the woodland in front of her.

Eragon nodded. “Understood. Stay safe, Alys.”

She inclined her head. “I will.” She waved her hand over the glass to clear his image and turned back towards Shruikan.

He stared at one of the flameless lanterns with wide eyes, tapping it with one of his talons. Alys had to watch for a few moments before clearing her throat. “It’s very dangerous is an Erisdar breaks, Shruikan.”

He immediately straightened himself and stepped away. I understand. They’re quite fascinating, though.

Alys nodded in agreement. “They are. A very ancient form of light, made by an elf who taught the dwarves. Very useful underground.”

Shruikan hummed deep in his throat and looked at her. I take it your master is content with you staying here.

Alys nodded. “He’d be insane to not be.”

He curled up on his new bed of hides and nodded. Good. I’d personally deal with it for you.

She shook her head. “That’s not how things work, Shruikan. And that’d create more trouble for me than an angry headmaster.”

Shruikan huffed, smoke puffing out of his nostrils. He thumped his tail on the stone floor. I’m just saying he should appreciate you more. You do a lot for them. He has no reason to be upset with you. And if he was going to be, I’d make sure he knew how valuable you are.

Alys blinked, having heard something similar from Ugauc once. “O-oh. Well… thank you.” That was a similar response to what she’d said then, too. A trickle of sadness and pride flowed through her, and apparently on to Shruikan.

Is it hard? Knowing how he’s doing?

Alys shrugged. “Truth be told, I don’t know exactly how he’s doing.” She looked away. “I know a bit,” she paused. “That he’s in pain, but that’s it.” She glanced down, pausing again. “And that he’s dying.” Her gaze fell downward. She hated admitting that as much as she knew it.

Shruikan’s lip lifted in a snarl and twitched. And they’re still forcing you to stay away?

She looked at him and nodded. “They said they’d inform me when it was best to come.”

He growled, the terrifying sound echoing through the cave. That’s an excellent way to turn a Rider against the rest.

She looked down again. She wanted to agree, but part of her knew they thought her being there would cause the same. She hugged herself. “I don’t care if I don’t have a dragon. I just want Ugauc to be okay. To not be in pain anymore. I’d make sure of it myself.” She slid down, sitting with her face in her knees, sniffing softly. She didn’t want to cry again.

Shruikan stopped his display and came closer to her, sniffing her face. He’d never seen a human like this. He touched his snout to her head. I’ll help you, Alys.

Alys looked up and frowned. “H-how?” she couldn’t help but stammer.

I’ll bring you to him. He hummed and moved to curl around her. I’ll help you.

*~*~*~*

It wasn’t long after dawn when Shruikan nudged Alys awake. She blinked, her body sore all over from her connection with Ugauc. She looked at him, her vision blurry.

Are you okay? You sounded in pain? And you were talking, and your eyes were leaking.

Alys wiped her face, noticing it was wet. “Crying.” She corrected. “I connect with him at night, its pretty painful.” She thought she heard Shruikan whine.

That’s it. He stood up quickly and stretched his wings. I’m not waiting any longer.

Before she could say anything, he grabbed Alys in his talon and left the cave with a swift beating of his wings.

Alys struggled to breathe with the pace of the wind passing her. “Shru—Shruikan!” she protested, hitting his strong, scaled finger. “At least let me pick up my stuff!”

Shruikan didn’t respond verbally, but altered his course towards Ilirea.

She stared at him from between his fingers and tried to get into his mind. He was angry and fearful. Some images of Ugauc that she’d shared with him were on his mind. She stroked his scales, trying to calm him. His anger cooled a little, but he kept his pace, determined. It wasn’t long before he passed over Ilirea’s walls and slammed down into the courtyard of its castle.

Alys grunted when he landed roughly, and he let her go. She heard shouts and roars from within from Riders, dragons and soldiers.

Shruikan crouched down, opening his maw and flaring wings in threat. He hid Alys behind his leg, not willing to let her get hurt.

Out of the keep ran Eragon, Murtagh and Arya—with the rest of the handful of riders in Ilirea—with Nasuada trailing behind. All seemed equalling fierce, confused and scared, not that they’d admit the latter. Shruikan watched them, growling.

Alys drew in a breath and touched his leg. “It's okay. Ill handle this.” She summoned her strength and walked out from behind his leg, looking at the Riders and her cousin.

[dragon-fics]

DOS: Hunter to Lover (Male Dragon Shifter X Male Elf/Reader)

Chapter summary: You are an elf who must bring back a dragon’s head to be a hunter for your clan. While on your hunt, your team leaves you alone.

pt. 1, Pt. 2, pt. 3 pt. 4, pt.5

“And remember what hangs in the balance; your path in life!” Shouted the elder elf. His luscious silver locks wavered in the snowy air as he paced in front of us, giving us the speech every new hunting elf heard when they went on their first hunt. “Come back with a dragon’s head, you become one of us; fierce hunters who feed our clan! Come back empty-handed, and you will have to make another life for yourself!”

Every firstborn heard this speech on their 800th year of life, when we come of age to be adult elves. And now it was my turn.

I stood with my team of five other elves, we all wielded a weapon; a bow, an ax, a sword or a dagger, along with hunting knives on our belt. I held a bow, a quiver tightly strapped around my torso. I set my face hard, but I wasn’t ready for this.

The elves beside me absolutely were; they were ready to be hunters for our clan.

The elder faced the group, his speech finished. His silver robes wavered in the breeze. He scanned all of us, his ancient gaze pausing on me. I gulped.

“Go forth! And find yourself a beast to kill!”

The surrounding elves raised their fists. “Ho!” They shouted.

“Ho,” I mumbled with them.

The groups dispersed. I followed mine to the north of our village. We already had scouted to the north, and there we found hints that a dragon lived nearby; shed scales, large animal carcasses, large dung piles, all remanents of a dragon.

Our leader Bracken, an elf three months older and taller than me, ran over our plan quickly; I would release some arrows to distract the beast, three others would charge at it and our leader would drive his sword through the dragon’s chest. Straight forward, but hard to time and even harder to find the dragon. We all nodded, to show that we understood the plan. He gave a quick nod back, and we started our way out of the village.

We trekked for a long time until we found the dragon’s main feeding spot; he littered it with carcasses from recently to bones from years ago. I looked away, disgusted; how could any creature eat another creature? It was barbaric.

“Search for tracks,” our leader ordered. We split up.

I made my way over to the freshest carcass and circled it. Large five-clawed talon marks were pressed in the ground. I followed them out of the clearing to the east. I turned around.

“Bracken!” I called. But they were gone, the four of them had just disappeared. “Bracken, Arya, Nima, Flinn?” I called one by one. Nothing.

I thought for a moment. Perhaps they found tracks and wanted to investigate? I’m sure they’ll be back soon. 

I went over to one of the wider trees around the clearing and leaped up into it, and sat in the branch's crook, leaning against the trunk. I looked at my bow, plucking the string as I waited for my team to come back. After a while, I stopped and looked up through the leaves at the pale blue sky above. I was getting sore from sitting on the branch.

I sighed and listened to my surroundings, so I could try to hear where my teammates were. I closed my eyes and focused on my ears. I pushed aside the close sounds and focused on the smaller ones. I could hear some grasshoppers nearby, two squirrels scurrying up a tree and a mother moon phoenix calling to her fledglings to come back for dinner. But no adolescent elves.

I sat like that for a long time. When I opened my eyes, the sun was setting and my legs were asleep. I stretched, dangled out of the tree, my hands gripping the branch as I hung there.

“What am I going to do?” I whispered. I walked over to the tracks I had found earlier. I had no team, no way to bring back a dragon’s head, and I had no way to get back safely without my teammates.

I looked at the long line of tracks ahead of me and drew in a breath. I’d have to stay silent and hope that the dragon and I didn’t cross paths.

I stayed to the edge of the tracks, walking beside them as I looked around. The forest was getting dark, but my Elven sight allowed me to see in the growing darkness.

My heart raced as I walked, I was so scared about coming across the dragon; I forgot about the tracks and wandered off course.

I stop in my stride as I came out of my thoughts.

Where am I?

I spun around and looked at the ground; no tracks in sight. I whipped my head around again, my breathing quickening.

I’m lost and alone.

I don’t know where the village is from here.

No one knows where I am. I’m going to die here at the talons of a bloodthirsty beast and no one will ever know where I died.

A picture of my parents and siblings flashed before my eyes.

They’ll never know...

Tears spilled from my eyes, and I heard heavy wings flap above me.

Mama and Papa will never know because I’m a coward and a fool

Something landed behind me rather lightly.

“It’s all right, little elfling,” soothed a male voice. “I won’t hurt you.”

I spun around, tears spilling down. In front of me stood a muscular male with broad shoulders and chest. His skin tone was much darker than my own pale complexion and had dark green scales on his jaw and neck. He had scaled dark green wings on his back and dark horns protruding from his dark shoulder length hair. He wore a pair of brown trousers and nothing more.

A dragon? I questioned. They have more than one form?

He came closer, his expression soft. “You’re lost, aren’t you?” He asked, he sounded like he will bundle me up and take care of me forever. I wanted to trust me.

I nodded my head, my lips quivering.

“Oh, little elfling,” he pouted. He came closer and wrapped his arms and wings around me. “Those elves were wrong to abandon you.” I sobbed into his chest. How was I doing this? I’m supposed to kill him, not sob uncontrollably in his hold.

“I know just what you need,” he said. He opened his wings and looked down at me. His bare chest was getting soaked by my tears. “Come with me, little elfling,” he whispered.

I nodded, even though it wasn’t a suggestion.

He put a wing around me and walked me away from where we were. I slowly gathered myself as we walked.

“What’s your name, little elfling?” He asked.

“(Y/N),” I stuttered.

“A pretty name for a pretty elf boy,” he mused. I smiled, blushing. “I’m Ugauc.”

I smiled at him. “Nice to meet you, Ugauc.”

We stopped in front of a curtain of leafy vines.

“Welcome to my home,” he greeted before moving me through the dew dusted leaves. On the other side was a bed made of animal hides, a few loose bones, a tiny stream of water and glowing crystals in the walls, ceiling and stalactites, illuminating the cave. There were no gold or gems, no Elven warriors strewn on the ground. No blood spattered on the walls and floor. Maybe we had everything wrong about them.

Ugauc walked forward, leaving me by the entrance.

“This... This is beautiful,” I gasped, focusing on the glowing ceiling.

Ugauc shrugged. “I suppose so. I guess I wanted to find a simple home, having figured out my mate is an elf.”

I looked at him. “Who?” I stiffed as my nose cleared up.

Ugauc hesitated and looked at me. “You, (Y/N).”

I looked back at him, frozen. All this comforting was just so he could—

—No, there must be more to it. He said figured out, remember.

“How do you know that we...?” I put my forefingers together.

Ugauc looked down, thinking about how to explain this. “When dragons come of an age to find a mate, an invisible string pulls us towards each other, so we may find each other. My string led me to your village. I was confused at first, but when you went on a scouting trip with those ‘teammates’ of yours, I knew it was one of you. So I observed all of you—I liked you the most—but when you spilt up to follow my tracks, it was easier for me to figure out which one of you is my soulmate,” he explained. He looked at me, golden eyes shining.

I looked down. “So, we’re—?” I pointed from me to him.

He nodded.

“And you’re sure it’s not any of the others?”

“(Y/N), what I feel with you is like nothing I have ever felt with anyone else.” He moved closer and cupped my cheek.

I swallowed saliva. “Do—did you scare off the others to figure this out?”

Ugauc stepped back. “By the howling winds, no,” he said, sounding insulted. “No, I didn’t. As soon as you turned your back, they walked off, little elfling. I promise you.”

I sighed, disappointed. I looked back at the vines behind me. No light passed through them. I looked back to Ugauc.

“I will walk you home,” he made his way towards the vines.

“Could—,” I started. He turned around. “Could I stay the night? I’m not ready to go home and everyone will be asleep.”

Ugauc smiled. “Please do, little elfling.”

“I’m not an elfling, Ugauc.” I crossed my arms.

“I know. But you’re my little elfling.”

I smiled, and he smiled back. I was so happy he had found me.

Let me know if you want a part 2! I enjoyed writing this WAY too much.

[dragon-fics]

DOS[holiday special]: Traditional to Not-So-Traditional {pt.7} (Ugauc X male elf/Reader)

Chapter summary: its wintertime and Ugauc and his "little elfling" go back to Mistpeaks. While they're there, Ugauc surprises the reader by preparing an elven feast.

Requested on DeviantArt)

pt. 1, Pt. 2, pt. 3 pt. 4, pt.5, pt. 6, pt. 8

“Ugauc?”

My call echoed around me in the foggy, snowy woodland as the cold prickled my neck. Without Ugauc by my side, I felt completely vulnerable to whatever the creatures Ugauc had smelled earlier.

Where has he gotten to?

My nervousness was making me impatient, and I just wanted to get out of these freezing temperatures.

Ugh! I miss the rainforest! It was so much warmer there, and there was tasty fruit to eat, instead of these bitter berries and hardly ripe apples.

My mind wandered to the warm sunshine and green canopy of the rainforest, leaving behind the bare trees and gloomy scenery around me. I could almost feel the warmth of the sun on my skin, replacing the cool dampness around me.

I miss home. And Festolgit is coming up soon... I wonder if dragons have anything to celebrate at the end of the year.

I looked around the little clearing I was in, scanning the fog for a muscular dragon-shifter in his humanoid form.

But I couldn’t spot him.

“Where are you, Ugauc?” I whispered, irritated. I wrapped my arms close to my torso under my cloak, trying to not feel warmer than my anxiety was allowing me to be.

I tightened my jaw, glancing around again, my anxiety only getting worse.

I heard the crunching of leaves and spun around, pulling out a dagger from beneath my dark cloak. I eyed the fog in front of me, keeping as stern of a face as I could, as my heart bet in terror.

I silently stood there in my battle stance, scared for my life.

Ugauc! I called out to him.

No response.

He couldn’t be that far away, so why isn’t he answering?

Has he run into something?

Is he hurt?

My mind raced, thinking of the worst thing that could have happened to him.

I stared at the spot, hearing only my breathing and racing heart as I watched for movement.

“Rah!” Shouted a voice, as his fingers dug into my sides as he launched himself from behind me.

I yelped and spun away from his grasp, cutting him with my blade. I stopped, eying my attacker from the opposite side of the clearing.

He seethed, holding his hand to his wounded face. “It’s nice to know your reflects are sharp.”

“Ugauc?” I looked to my blade, navy dragon blood dripping from the metal. I felt my heart drop.

“Ugauc... I am so sorry,” I apologize, stepping closer to his dark figure.

Ugauc came closer to me, dark blood seeping through his fingers as he held his hand to his cheek. “I’ll be fine, little elfling.” He removed his hand from his face and spit into it, before returning it to the slash of his face. “It’ll heal quickly.”

“You still shouldn’t have scared me like that!” I scolded. “I was so worried when you were gone for so long and didn’t respond.”

Ugauc’s lips lifted into a cruel smile, and he chuckled.

“What’s so amusing?!”

“How much you care.” I saw a scab already forming on his wound. “It’s adorable.”

I glared at him. “And what about the creatures you were tracking?”

“A couple of manticores who fled as soon as I got close to them. We’re fine... until they smell my blood.”

I rubbed my arms. “Then can we get going before they do that?”

Ugauc nodded his head calmly, ignoring my apparent irritation and distress. He smiled and pecked my brow. “Relax, little elfling. I’m fine. And I’m sorry for scaring you, I thought it would be funny.”

“And it clearly wasn’t,” I said, gesturing to his now sealed scar and dried blood around the wound.

Ugauc inclined his head. “I know.” He snapped his head around, scanning the foggy surroundings for whatever he heard.

“Let’s get going.”

*-*-*-*

“If you keep scratching like that, you’ll tear off your scales,” I called from the snowy shore of the lake. Ugauc crouched by the water, trying to rid his face of whatever blood was left around his wound.

“My dam will not bee happy seeing me without a shirt still, nevermind with dried blood on my face also,” Ugauc replied, glancing up at Mistpeaks. We had arrived a little while ago, after a few hours of flying.

I smiled. “She didn’t raise a barbarian dragon,” I quoted, watching him as he finished washing his face.

Ugauc chuckled. “No, she didn’t.”

“And yet you attacked me.”

Ugauc looked over his shoulder, looking hurt. “I thought you said we were ok now? That you had forgiven me?”

“You are, I’m just looking forward to hearing the story you’re going to tell your parents. You couldn’t have got it naturally.”

“Sometimes I really dislike you, little elfling.” Ugauc rose to his feet and walked over to me.

I simply smirked. “And yet you still whisper in my ear how much you love me every night.”

Ugauc chuckled and pecked my cheek. “Very true.” He kissed me on the lips.

“Ugh! Get a room!” Called a feminine voice from above. Ugauc and I snapped our heads up. Above us perched in a tree was a dragon-shifter, crouched and looking down at us. Ugauc stood between me and the tree, eying her in the bright winter sun.

Ugauc snarled at her.

“That’s no way to greet your sister,” she responded.

“Hey, Udauh,” I said, walking in front of Ugauc.

Udauh laughed and jumped down from the tree. “Hello, (Y/N).” She tossed my hair with her hand and looked at Ugauc.

“Udauh,” Ugauc disdained.

Udauh made a playful face at Ugauc. “Hello to you too, parvus frater.”

“Para what?” I asked.

“Little brother,” Ugauc translated.

I eyed Ugauc. “Dragons have their own language?”

“Apart from growls and grunts? yes, we do.”

Udauh giggled. “But even in this form, some males chose to not use their snarls.”

*-*-*-*

“So, Ugauc told me that not every dragon has a second form. Do you know why?” I asked Udauh. She was trying to keep me occupied—I just didn’t know why.

“There’s a bet it’s to do with genetics and magic. But some think it might have to do with some of us being bound to elves, or other non-draconic beings—like werewolves. Either way, its magic.”

I nodded. “At least you had an answer.”

Udauh giggled. “Ugauc likes to give an answer that he’s absolutely certain about.”

I smiled and nodded. “Yeah.” I glanced around, making sure none of the dragons in the canyon saw me. “So... do dragons have any festivals? Or holidays? Or feasts?”

Udauh shook her head. “No, nothing annually like elves have. We celebrate personal successes; like our trial to become clanmembers—like your hunt; or when we find our soulmates. It’s usually a family feast with the best of prey to eat.”

I nodded, hiding my disgust as best as I could; the thought of dragons eating other creatures still made my stomach churn, even after eating with Ugauc for almost a year.

I saw Udauh glance up at her parents’ cave, which was where we were staying for the time being since a draconic found Ugauc’s old cave and had made themselves at home in it.

Udauh’s lips curled into a smile. “Right, let’s get up there; I’m getting cold.” She lifted herself into the sky and flew off.

“Udauh!” I hissed. She turned around, looking down at me in the vegetation of the rocky valley. She elegantly flew done to me.

“Sorry,” she whispered. She shifted to her turquoise dragon form and took me up in her talons, keeping me as best hidden as she could; it was a very unnerving experience; sitting in her claws.

But after a few heart-racing minutes, Udauh landed in the cave's mouth and gently placed me on the cold stone. I got to my feet.

“Thanks, Udauh,” I said with a bow and slowly walked in. The chamber was lit up with tiny candles on the ledges in the walls. On the floor, there was a nice spread of fruits and cooked pieces meat all sitting on pieces of bark or stone on a blanket I had brought from my home. It reminded me of of of our winter festival, Festolgit.

“Merry Festolgit, (Y/N),” Ugauc said, smiling widely and wrapping me in a hug.

I smiled into his now covered chest. “Merry Festolgit, Ugauc,” I said, pulling away from him. “But I didn’t get you anything—that’s what Festolgit is all about.”

“I’ve already got the best gift ever,” he smiled. “You.” He pecked my nose.

I smiled, embarrassed. “Ugauc!”

[dragon-fics]

DOS: Hunter to Lover [pt. 2](Ugauc X Male Elf/reader)

Chapter summary: You wake up by Ugauc’s side and return home. You visit him in secrecy until you are stuck in his cave during s blizzard.

pt. 1, Pt. 2, pt. 3 pt. 4, pt.5, pt. 6

H/C = Hair Colour

I felt warm. It was a nice warm. Like it was the iciest winter, and I was snuggled up under my coziest blanket.

But that didn’t make any sense. It was spring and my mattress didn’t feel like my mattress. It felt more like I had sunk in a giant pillow that in. I could also hear water gurgling softly nearby.

Where am I?

My eyes snapped open in a panic. I could see dimly glowing blue and white specks on a grey rippling canvas above me.

Stars?

Yellow light streamed in through a opening, a green hue added by the leafy vines draped over the opening.

As I looked around, I remembered where I was. I was in his cave... the dragon’s cave. The dragon’s cave whose name I couldn’t remember.

And then there was the warm feeling that was wrapped around me. I looked down, a giant scaled wing delicately wrapped around me. I looked over my shoulder. More green scales.

So, he does have a beast form. I noted.

I propped myself up on my arms and looked behind me. His large green head was curled in around me, as if to provide some sort of border between me and the rest of the cave.

His breaths were deep and long, grumbling softly in his throat as he slept. I smiled at his snoozing body.

I crawled closer to him, feeling the ruff behind his horns. It was so smooth—like a petal. I ran my hand over the ruff, feeling my hand run over the cartilage fingers in it.

Then a new rumble came from his throat.

Was he... purring?

He was purring as I stroked his scales. His lips curled up into a smile. His smile made me smile.

I moved my hand down to his head, running my hands over the rougher scales of his cheek and forehead.

His smile grew bigger.

Good morning, came a masculine voice. The same voice I heard from the dragon the night before.

But he didn’t move his lips. He hadn’t moved at all.

I froze and retracted my hand.

I was enjoying that, he complained.

“How are you doing that?” I asked.

Talking in your head? He seemed amused by my confusion. He opened his eye, an amber gem staring right at me.

“You’re—you’re in my head?!” I exclaimed. I forced myself to my feet and backed up, only to have his wing hit my back.

The dragon raised his head, green scales shimmering in what morning sunlight came into the cave. He looked down at me, sympathy in his eyes. He lifted his wing, and I stumbled off the cushion of animal hides.

I’m sorry, but I have no other way to communicate with you in this form... and either way you’re the only person I can communicate with like this.

I looked straight at him, trying to look hard. 

Just give me a moment to shift and find my clothes.

I glanced aside and turned around.

A flash of light came from behind me. I glanced over my shoulder to see his bare back as he rummaged around for his trousers.

I quickly whipped my head around, face flushed bright red. Some explicit thoughts rushed through my head before I stopped myself and calmed down. I tapped my bare foot on the ground to distract myself.

“I’m sorry, (Y/N). I didn’t realise elves kept their thoughts to themselves,” He apologised.

I turned around, surprised he had apologized. “It—It’s fine, um—“

“Ugauc,” he reminded me.

I blushed, embarrassed I had forgotten his name. “Ugauc,” I repeated, “I’ll try to remember that.”

Ugauc gave a small nod and knelt by the stream. He cupped his hand and drank some crystal clear water.

“So, um, what did you mean by you’re the only person I can communicate with like this?” I asked, looking down at the meandering stream beside me.

“The bond that connects us, as soulmates, allows me to communicate with you through words, rather than through pictures or emotions with other dragons,” he rose to his feet. “Over time, our bond will strengthen so we can communicate even when we are apart. And after we... officially bond, that’ll be our first step to strengthening our bond... if you wish to do so, I mean. Or we could just spend as much time as we can together,” he finished, looking at me.

“Officially bon—oh... yeah, um,” my cheeks flushed bright red again. Ugauc chuckled.

“It’s all right, little elfling, I’m not ready for that either,” He strolled closer to me, eyes shining.

I smiled back at him.

Then a hungry gurgle came from my stomach.

“Shall I walk you home?”

*-*-*-*

“Here’s fine, Ugauc,” I said, stopping by the last line of trees that surrounded our snowy village.

Ugauc looked from his perch in one of the lowest branches in the tree beside me. He eyed every part of the village. “Are you sure I can’t deal with those elves for you?” He seemed to be annoyed by the fact he wasn’t allowed to take care of his ‘little elfling’ and deal with the elves who had abandoned me.

“If you do ‘deal with them’, you will be found and killed. They will hang your head in our great hall!” I said. “please, just stay safe and away from our village,” I pleaded.

Ugauc looked down at me, his narrowed pupils relaxing. He nodded his head.

“Now, please go before someone sees you. I don’t want to lose you before I’ve even gotten to know you.”

Ugauc slowly nodded his head again. “I’ll see you soon, (Y/N),” he whispered. He turned around and hopped through the trees, gripping onto tree trunks with his sharp nails.

I sighed sadly as he leaped away, before starting forward, staring at my boots. My stomach gurgled again as I walked on the path to my home.

“Oh! (Y/N)!” Called my mother in a relieved cry. I could barely see her before she wrapped her arms around me in a firm hug.

“Mama, please,” I said, trying to sound embarrassed, but it relieved me to see her again, especially after almost thinking I was going to die at the claws of a dragon last night.

She let go of me and looked me over. “Oh, my son! You look famished and filthy!” She scowled. “Come home. I’ll make a big breakfast for you and you can have a hot bath straight after,” she decided with a firm nod. I would not fight her—not that I would have won.

Mama walked me home. As soon as she opened the door she exclaimed, “Look who’s home!”

*-*-*-*

So they’ve been dealt with? Ugauc asked as he tore apart a boar’s carcass, blood splattered against his emerald scales. It had been a week since the hunt, and Bracken and the rest of his team had not brought back a dragon, but they had brought back a dire wolf, which was enough to have them as part of the hunting squad. But our clan leader—who was Bracken’s father—had found out they had abandoned me mid-hunt, so they have been suspended from joining the hunting squad.

I flinched; I had yet to get used to Ugauc’s fierce eating methods. “For now,” I said ruefully.

Ugauc continued to tear the boar apart. We usually send traitors of dragon clans to the Queen’s arena to fight the fiercest of the clan; most don’t make it out alive.

I gave him a horrified look and thought of the best response. “I’m afraid we’re not dragons.”

Ugauc smiled as he ate. That is true. He swallowed his food. What about you? What are you going to do? Seeing as you weren’t part of the hunt.

“They gave me the option to join the squad, but I think I’d like to help teach young archers of our clan, or I might try out some new trades,” I said, nibbling on my snack; a pomegranate I was digging the seeds out of; one of the few fruits that grew in our harsh, snowy climate.

Ugauc dug around the carcass for the last of the meat left on the boar, before rolling it away and licking the blood from his chops and mouth. I will never understand how a creature can live their entire life eating plants and seeds. Meat is so tasty! You should try it sometime.

I shook my head. “Have you ever even tried plants?”

Ugauc paused. I’ve tried apples, mangoes, raspberries, blackberries, dragonberries and dragonfruit.

I stopped eating my seeds. “And what did you think of them?”

Apples, raspberries and blackberries are much too bitter for my taste. And dragonberries and dragonfruit have nothing to do with us! We barely even eat fruit! He raised his head snootily.

I laughed. “Well, at least you tried them,” I sighed. “I’ve never even seen most of them.”

Haven’t been around much, have you?

I shook my head.

Maybe we could do that in a while? Do some travelling together, I mean.

I thought for a moment. My parents sometimes talk about when they went travelling, when they were younger. I had always wanted to do the same with my future mate.

I smiled. “I’d love to do that.”

*-*-*-*

“Can you put me down now?” I asked. Ugauc held me firm in his grip. I had snuck off yet again to meet my boyfriend after almost a month of secretly dating.

Ugauc smirked. “No,” he replied smugly as he continued walking to his cave. Clouds were gathering above us. Blizzard clouds as I learned growing up in a village constantly being battered by snow.

“But I need to get home, Ugauc.”

“You’ll get caught in the storm if you go home now,” Ugauc said. “I’m not letting that happen.”

He was right; I knew he was, but I still had to get home.

“Ugauc,” I scolded. He let me go, and I stood in front of him. “I need to get home to my family.”

“You’ll freeze before you get to the village.” Ugauc said, trying to stay as calm as possible. “And I’ll be spotted if I fly to there, if the wind wasn’t already picking up.”

I sighed and turned around, walking towards his cave.

I rubbed my arms as I passed through the leafy vines hanging in the cave's mouth.

“I’ll gather some wood and start a fire for us,” Ugauc said, leaving the cave again.

“Stay safe!” I called after him. I was met with the sound of running water from the stream.

I moved over to the bed of animal hides, pulling a bison hide over my shoulders to keep me warm.

It wasn’t long before the wind howled outside, sending the vines into a swirling frenzy. I shivered, thinking of Ugauc out there. And with his wings... It’d be a long fight for him to get back.

Then I heard someone approach.

“Finally, you’re back,” I said, jumping to my feet.

But Ugauc wasn’t who came into the cave.

It was a female elf with long (H/C) hair and silvery robes.

“There you are, (Y/N),” she said.

“Eda?” I asked.

My sister smiled. “Yeah, of course it’s me, dummy,” she said, putting her hands on her hips. She looked around at the cave. “Woah! How did you find this place?” She turned to me. “And who were you waiting for?” She poked at the bison hide on my shoulders. “And how did you get this?”

“Eda, you—we—have to go,” I said, grabbing her wrist.

She furrowed her brow. “But you were here, so why do we have to leave?”

“(Y/N)! I’m back!” Ugauc shouted over the wind. Eda peered over my shoulder as he walked in.

I spun around, Ugauc dropped the wood in his arms. Eda stepped back, a horrified look on her face.

“Who is that?!” Ugauc and Eda exclaimed in unison.

[dragon-fics]

DOS: Reunion to Introduction {pt. 8} (Ugauc X Male Elf/Reader)

Chapter summary: After over almost 2 years of travelling with Ugauc, you return home to your snowy elf village to introduce your family to Ugauc’s family. 

pt. 1, Pt. 2, pt. 3 pt. 4, pt.5, pt. 6, pt. 7

N/T = New Trade (the one from previous chapters)

I walked around the white clearing as Ugauc and his family shifted, the snow beneath me crunching as I walked. I looked over at them, all dressed in their tunics. It disappointed me that Ugauc now had one because I really enjoyed seeing his muscles every time he shifted—and I could never tire of seeing them.

Udauh spotted me looking at them and slid over. “So... You and Ugauc got busy last night, huh?” She raised her eyebrows twice with a smirk.

I froze in my stride. “You heard?!” I hissed quietly. I thought we had snuck far enough away to ‘enjoy ourselves’ the night before.

Udauh burst out laughing. “You two weren’t the quietest... Then again, I did wander off to find you... and Mother and Father said they didn’t hear anything during the night.”

I held my face in my hands, embarrassed. I groaned audibly and Udauh giggled.

“I won’t tell anyone.” I looked at her as she placed a hand on her chest. “I promise, little elfling,” she smirked again. I crossed my arms, unimpressed.

Ugauc walked over to us. “What have you done to upset my boyfriend?” He said, exasperated.

Udauh raised her head smugly. “I’ve done no such thing!” She insisted. Ugauc cocked a brow at me, I looked away.

Ugauc shooed his sister away and stood beside me, placing a wing on my back.

“She heard us last night,” I whispered, twirling a lock of my hair sheepishly.

Ugauc chuckled. “Udauh,” he sighed, “Always nosey.”

I smiled and turned towards the faint outline of the snowy valley filled to the brim with coniferous trees and three elven villages. I couldn't believe it had been almost two years since I’d left here.

My home.

Ugauc pecked my head. “Are you ready to go down?”

I nodded. “Absolutely.”

Ugauc looked back to his family. “We’re trusting you all to stay quiet and out of sight. No shifting, no roaring, no growling or snarling and no fire-breathing,” he told them sternly. One thing I had noticed about them was that the cold didn’t really bother them much. It had for their hour of being in the snowy northern region, but they quickly adapted to the cold. I, on the other hand, had gotten so used to the warmth of the rainforest and the temperature change was a shock to my system.

Epho and Koro inclined their heads. “Udauh?” Ugauc asked warily.

His sister looked at him with a pouting expression. “You’re no fun!” She accused childishly.

Ugauc sighed, exasperated. “Udauh...”

“We’ll make sure she doesn’t do anything to ruin this meeting,” Koro said, touching Ugauc’s shoulder. “Go, we’ll be fine, and careful.”

Ugauc nodded and turned around. “Alright, let’s go.”

*-*-*-*

I peered around a tree, looking at the village I called home. Every elf was walking around, doing their business and going about their day. I knew these faces; there were a few I wanted to run up to and ask how they had been.

But I couldn’t.

I pulled up the hood of my cloak and got ready to step out into the street.

“Will you be all right?” Ugauc asked, crouched above me in a tree several feet behind me.

I nodded. “As long as I don’t draw attention to myself, I’ll be fine.” I blew him a kiss, and he blew one back.

“Stay safe,” he breathed. I smiled and started down the cobbled street.

Not much had changed; there were a few new potted plants on buildings, but business was still booming, even at Fírning’s shop—Fírning was my (N/T) mentor two years ago, after I had failed the hunting test.

I strode through the street, keeping to the side with my head down. I focused on my thoughts:

Have they missed me?

Will they be happy to see me?

Are they all right? Has anything befallen them?

What if something has happened, and I wasn’t here?

What if they won’t want to meet Ugauc’s family?

As I was getting worked up, I had bumped into someone, knocking their books, scrolls and some arrows from the quiver to the ground.

I yelped in surprise. “Sorry, didn’t see you there.” As I helped to pick up the scrolls, books and arrows, I noticed that the someone was in fact two someones. As we bundled up everything, I noticed that one of them wore a pair of boots I had before I left—but that could be anyone as there were very few shoemakers in our village.

As we stood up, I handed over what I had gathered.

“Thanks,” said a male voice, one that I knew.

I looked at their faces. “Eda? Eldrin?” I whispered.

“(Y/N)?” Eldrin asked, smiling.

“What are you doing back here?” Eda hissed. “Did Ugauc abandon you?” She accused, pulling a dagger from her belt as she put away the arrows in the quiver on her back.

“No!” I hissed. “No, nothing like that has happened. But I do need to talk to you all. Are Mama and Papa home?”

Eldrin nodded. “We’re just heading back now.”

“So what’s so important you came back from your fabulous travels to see us?” Eda asked. She glanced at my stomach. “Are you pregnant? Did Ugauc somehow get you pregnant?”

I furrowed my brow as we walked, disturbed. “What? No! That’s not even possible. I’m a cisgender male elf—What!” I was so confused by what had come out of her mouth.

Eda burst out into a wild laugh. “I’m joking,” she hollered as we neared our home. “But seriously; why are you home?”

*-*-*-*

Our families got on surprisingly well when they met. Our mother’s talked a lot about what we did when we were young, our sisters enjoyed sharing similar stories; except these were when they would beat us at fighting or spill our very embarrassing secrets. Eldrin sat with us as we eavesdropped on the groups, paying more attention to what our fathers were talking about; impressive hunts they had and hunting and stalking techniques they had picked up.

But no one ever mentioned a single thing about attacks or massacres or elves or dragons they had killed.

I looked around at them all, talking and getting along; if only every elf and dragon could get along like this. It was a gathering of murmurs and stories around the campfire in the snowy clearing.

Eldrin tapped me on the shoulder, bringing me out of my thoughts.

“Hm?” I asked, turning to him. He seemed nervous, pressing his sleeve-covered hands together.

“Someone’s watching us, and I... I... I’m bound to him,” he whispered, fiddling with his covered hands. I tilted my head to him.

“(Y/N),” Ugauc hissed.

“His name is Vostrasz,” he continued, “and... he’s a dragon... and my soulmate.”

I looked to Ugauc. “Was that what you were gonna tell me?” He nodded as I saw a set of glowing yellow eyes come from the surrounding darkness.

Ugauc and I weren’t alone.

I finished The Owl House last night and AAAAAHHH! typing the name Eda was kinda painful! But at least she’s still alive (both of them)! If you’ve seen it, lemme know what you think of it?

[dragon-fics]

DOS: Calm to Stormy {pt.6} (Ugauc X Male Elf/Reader)

Chapter summary: while Ugauc and you are travelling to the exotic lands, you almost enter dragon territory and run into Ugauc’s family... whom he has never talked about.

pt. 1, Pt. 2, pt. 3 pt. 4, pt.5, pt. 7, pt. 8

All I could see was blue. Just blue. Solid sky blue, to be precise.

I felt a warm breeze blow over me as I lay on my back as Ugauc flew through the sky. We were soaring above the clouds, hence why all I could see was blue. The sun was high above us, warming our bodies.

How are you feeling, (Y/N)? Ugauc asked. It was the first time he had spoken all day; which I found to be very out of character.

I brought myself back to the actual world as he spoke to me. I’m all right, now. I replied. I had woken up feeling homesick after dreaming about being with my family again.

Ugauc hummed in response. It had been a few days since we had mated, and I could feel the difference in the strength of our bond already. His emotions were usually easy enough for me to assess, but today he was keeping them hidden from me, and what I could feel seemed to be worry or fear of some sort.

I sat up on Ugauc’s back, seeing the expanse of fluffy clouds beneath us, each one looking like waves on the sea as we flew passed them.

Why are you hiding your thoughts from me, Ugauc? I asked.

Ugauc hesitated, thinking of the best response. I—I’ll tell you when I need to.

I frowned. Ugauc? What is it?

It’s nothing you need to worry about, little elfling. Ugauc said, blocking his worries again. I will tell you when I need to, I promise.

I wasn’t completely satisfied with his response, but I nodded. All right then, if you say so.

We stayed silent for a while as we continued to pass over the sea of white.

I think we should land soon, little elfling, Ugauc said. Up ahead I could see a split in the clouds, and I could see something sparkling below the clouds. There’s a lake nearby, we could wash ourselves off there?

Thoughts of being clean filled my head. I had never felt so dirty in all my life! Some other erotic thoughts ran through my head as well.

Sounds good. I responded, pushing aside my thoughts. I heard Ugauc chuckled, and I smiled, embarrassed.

Ugauc descended slowly below the clouds, water droplets brushing against his scales and my skin, many of which stayed on us.

As Ugauc descended, the lake came into view. The sparkling I had seen was the waves of the water reflecting the sun. Off in the distance, I could make out several large rocky hills, in almost two straight lines, making up a canyon. All around us was green with forest; I had yet to get used to seeing this new colour constantly.

Ugauc continued his slow descent, landing on the opposite side of the lake as the rocky hills. I braced myself for one of Ugauc’s rough landings, but this time he softened the landing immensely. I opened my eyes, surprised I hadn’t fallen from Ugauc’s back.

Ugauc turned his head around to look at me. You all right?

I nodded. “Yeah, I’m fine.” I slid off his back, dragging my rucksack and bison hide with me and dropping them on the ground.

I stretched my entire body upward. As my bones cracked and popped, I heard Ugauc’s heavy feet go thump, thump, thump. I turned my head around as he jumped into the lake, sending an enormous wave to splash me and the grass.

“Hey!” I yelped in surprise as the cool water hit my skin, but the water submerged Ugauc, unable to hear me.

A flash of light came from beneath the water surface, and Ugauc rose to the surface in his humanoid form. “Come on in, little elfling, the water’s great.”

I quickly removed my clothes as Ugauc swam around, enjoying himself. I ambled up to the water before stepping in. I expected the water to be an inch deep, not a whole foot. I yelped in shock. Ugauc swiftly swam over to me as I caught myself and shakily moved my other foot slowly into the water.

Uguac stood beside me. “Are you alright? Are you hurt?”

I shook my head. “No, no, I’m fine. It was a shock, that’s all... and it probably doesn’t help that I don’t know how to swim.”

“You didn’t learn to swim when you were an elfling?” Ugauc asked. “I thought all creatures learned to swim when they were hatchlings.”

I shook my head. “Ice constantly covered any lakes we had, or they were so cold you’d die within minutes,” I said, slowly relaxing again, my body no longer shaking.

Ugauc inclined his head and took my hands in his. “Then let me teach you.”

I gave him a worried look. That didn’t sound like the best idea.

“We won’t go too deep, I promise, little elfing,” Ugauc comforted, bending down to catch my eye. I hesitantly nodded, and he walked backwards into the water, leading me in slowly, the water rising to cover more of my skin with each step.

Ugauc stopped when the water was halfway up my stomach. I was feeling a little uneasy at the height of the water and with how I was almost floating off the bed on the lake.

I pushed aside my unease and looked to Ugauc, having him to focus on calming me down. We stood there, stomach deep in water. Ugauc let go of my wrists and dove under the water, swimming gracefully just below the surface, circling me and doing figure eights in the water. He reminded me of a winged merman, so graceful.

I smiled as he swam, inching my way deeper into the water as Ugauc swam further away. He finished another figure of eight before standing in front of me again and pulling me to lie on his cheats as he floated on his back. My heart raced at the sudden motion that caused my face to be just over the water. I froze in place. My face was hard with worry.

“Hey, it’s alright. I got you,” Ugauc comforted. I breathed shaky breaths and calmed down. (I) Trust him, (Y/N)! I scolded myself.

Once I was calm again, Ugauc swam through the water, using his wings and legs to propel himself.

I slowly relaxed in his hold as he swam around. It kind of reminded me of flying, just with a lot more water.

Ugauc pecked me of the head as he made his way back over to the shore before standing me back up. “I’m sure you want to get properly washed,” he mused. I smiled, slightly disappointed that our swim was over but happy to be clean. I got out of the water as Ugauc kept swimming, rummaging around in my bag for my bar of cream soap and a cloth.

I quickly returned to the water as I washed, my eyes catching the two lines of rocky hills on the opposite side of the lake. I stared at them as I wet my bar of soap wrapped in the cloth. “Could we fly through there when we’re done?” I asked Ugauc. He was drying himself off on the shore with one of my towels.

“Through where?” Ugauc asked, draping the towel over a low branch and pulling on his trousers. I looked back at the hills. Ugauc followed my gaze.

“Through those hills. They look interesting, don’t you think?” I looked at Ugauc. He seemed to look uneasily at the hills. “Ugauc?” I asked; he didn’t look to be entirely here(I).

“I don’t think it’s a good idea for us to go through there,” he responded, eyeing the hills.

“You know this place, don’t you?” I implored, finishing up in the lake and walking back up to the shore. Ugauc didn’t respond, but I saw his pupils flex wide and thin; he was scanning the trees for something. I got dry and changed and looked to where Ugauc was looking, but I couldn’t see anything. My eyesight was sharp, but his was sharper.

“Ugauc? What is it?” I asked, worried.

“You’re right; I know this place. I grew up here, (Y/N). Well, I grew up in those hills. I was planning on going around—to avoid familiar eyes—but I don’t think we’re going to get that lucky.”

I gulped. “What do you mean?” I asked slowly, putting our things away and edging closer to him.

“A dragon from my home-clan is lurking nearby, and I think they can see us,” he whispered.

“I could hide if you want to talk to them?” I offered.

Ugauc shook his head. “No, think we’re better off leaving.” He stepped forward, unbuttoning his trousers to remove them so he could shift.

“But—,” I started, Ugauc turned around to face me. “But you’ve never told me anything about your home... does your family even know where you are?... Do you have a family?” I asked. I was disappointed in myself for not pressing him on details about his family earlier. And even then, he had only mentioned how far his home was from mine, never anything about his family.

“Yes, (Y/N), I do have a family... But that’s besides the point.” Ugauc glanced back at the trees. “We need to go, just in case this dragon thinks you’re a threat.”

I clenched my teeth. He was right, again. We had to go. I inclined my head in agreement and Ugauc removed his garment, placing it in the bag and shifted to his beast-form. I quickly pulled myself and my belongings up onto him before he quickly took off.

Ugauc landed about a league away from the lake, satisfied that the dragon who was watching us would not give chase. I lurched forward with the rough landing. I quickly got off and brought my belongings with me. Ugauc continued to scan the trees. All the while I was glaring at him, wishing he had told me something(I) about his family.

“Why are you being so secretive?” I asked accusingly.

To keep you safe, Ugauc stated in an obvious tone.

“I meant about your family, your home.” Ugauc stayed quiet. “Ugauc!” I demanded. He looked down, I sighed, irritated.

Ugauc glanced at me and I turned my back on him; it hurt that he had kept secrets from me when I had been so honest with him.

My emotions must have flown through our bond to Ugauc because within moments he stood beside me, clothed and quiet.

“I’m sorry,” he breathed, “I just... I knew you’d get curious and want to go. But dragons are a ‘kill first, ask questions later’ type of species.”

“But you’re not,” I replied, looking at him.

“That’s because I knew my soulmate was an elf,” he reminded me.

We were quiet again. It made sense that seeing his home was foolish, but I just wanted to see it, even if it was from a distance.

Finally, I asked, “Are you embarrassed?”

“About?”

“Me... Being your mate.” I saw Ugauc’s face drop.

“No, of course not!” He placed a hand on my cheek. “Meeting you has been the most amazing thing to ever happen to me... But our species... The lives lost because of the hatred between them... The world just isn’t ready to leave that feud behind.”

I nodded and kissed his palm. “So what’s your family like?” I asked.

“They... They’re an OK family, compared to other dragon families. My sire is one of the lead hunters for our clan; much like yours was; my dam is the sister of our clan queen, and I have an older sister who is always teasing me about something,” he dropped his voice down to a mutter, “usually about bull I liked.”

I giggled. “Sounds nice,” I commented.

Ugauc gave me a small smile. “And I think the dragon who was spying on us... may have been Udauh, my sister.”

I thought for a moment. “Is she a ‘kill first ask questions later’ type of dragon?” I asked.

“Actually… no. My family wanted to study elves, like their—your behaviours and such, to see why exactly your people were killing us... And now I know it’s because of fear.”

“So... Could we try to find her?”

Ugauc hesitated, glancing down. “I... Don’t think my family wants to see me; I left in a rush to avoid them following me and finding out about my soulmate.”

“How long have you lived near our village?” I asked. I heard a rumble come from above. It sounded like thunder.

“A few months, but before I moved into my cave, I travelled there from time to time to make sure I was bound to an elf and to set up my home. I guess my family presumed that I was trying to meet up with my mate, rather than trying to find them in an elf village.” I cocked a brow, confused. “Usually our bond guides us towards each other; so I thought if I travelled during different times of the day, perhaps I’d meet my mate; who I presumed was a dragon.”

I raised my head and nodded, understanding what he meant.

The sky was growing dark and thunder rolled above. I shuddered; a forest wasn’t the best place to stay during a storm. I looked up uneasily as I heard a sound similar to thunder but nowhere near as bassy.

“Dragons,” Ugauc breathed. He smelled the air. I saw a look of recognition on his face, but no fear or panic.

“(Y/N), we should go to the cave I used to live in, while the storm lasts. It’s not far,” he said, pushing aside what he had felt before. I quietly agreed and followed him.

The rumble I could hear above us followed us, even as a yawning cave mouth came into sight.

“Who’s following us?” I whispered as we got nearer.

Ugauc hesitated. “I think...it’s my family,” he admitted quietly.

My breath hitched; was that good or bad? Ugauc added nothing to his statement, he just walked into the cave.

“Welcome to my old home, (Y/N), where I would have brought you the first time we met, had I not found that other cave.”

This cave was pretty similar to his cave in the snowy forest, it just didn’t have any vines outside, or a huge nest of animal hides as a bed. It was small, with a tiny stream gurgling through the stone floor. There was a large stone slab off to the side—big enough for two dragons—with sheep's wool and a moose hide on it for comfort and warmth. It didn’t appeal to me as much as the other cave had.

Ugauc released a slow sigh. “Are you mad at me?” He asked, looking down at the stream.

“A little,” I responded. I could hear the wingbeats get nearer. “But I guess I understand what you’d didn’t tell me. It just... hurts that you didn’t tell me about your family.”

Ugauc nodded. “Can’t blame you.” He swung his head up to look out the mouth of the cave. Three dragons landed outside, shaking the ground. I backed up. They were all bigger than Ugauc. The largest was a dark green, even darker than Ugauc; a deep blue dragon stood beside that one; and a slightly smaller turquoise dragon, who was a little bigger than Ugauc.

I moved behind Ugauc, observing him. He looked to be fighting with himself.

I) Should I snarl?

Should I shift?

Would they attack (Y/N)?

Would they attack me?

He eyed the dragons carefully, as did I. The largest one—the green one, had many similar features to Ugauc; the same horn shape, same eyes and same body shape. The blue one was slimmer than the green one, with the same face shape and ruff behind their head as Ugauc, along with similarly shaped neck and back spikes. The turquoise one was a combination of both; the same pale blue eyes as the blue dragon, the same skinny spikes on their back and neck as the green dragon, and had the same body shape as the blue one. They all had the same wide stripes on their backs and necks as Ugauc.

Ugauc was thinking to himself; though it sounded more like arguing with himself.

Ugauc? I panicked. What are we gonna do?

Ugauc looked from me to the dragons. “What do you want?” He demanded, stepping forward. His voice faltering slightly.

The three dragons shifted. They all had long dark hair like Ugauc did, horns and wings that matched their beast forms and similar complexions to Ugauc. They all wore shimmering tunics and dark leggings. I could sense magic on them, which allowed them to keep them on while in their beast forms. the green and blue dragons were older than the turquoise one, much older, with paler, wrinkled skin and silver strands of hair. The green one was male, the other two were female.

The elderly female, the blue dragoness, stepped forward. “Ugauc, my hatchling, you’re home!” She greeted, wrapping him in a hug. I stepped back as Ugauc let out an embarrassed sigh.

“Mother, please,” he insisted quietly, but I could feel he was happy to see her through our bond. His dam let him go, looking him over.

“You could have at least come home looking descent,” she scolded. “I didn’t raise you to look like a barbarian dragon.” She brushed his scaled shoulder as if it were filthy.

I couldn’t help but giggle; they were much more civilized than I had expected, and it was humourous.

Ugauc’s dam peered over Ugauc’s shoulder to look at me. I stopped laughing as the other two came nearer. Ugauc bowed his head at the male.

“Ugauc, it’s been a while.” Ugauc’s sire started, watching how his mate looked at me. “It’s good to see you, especially after your sudden disappearance.” Ugauc gave him a small smile as his sire touched his shoulder; he hadn’t enjoyed leaving them.

And then there was the other dragoness. She wasn’t much older than Ugauc and was about the same height as him. They smiled at each other; this had to have been the sister who spotted us. They continued to look at each other as Ugauc’s dam came closer to me, Ugauc’s sire was close behind.

The look on her face made me nervous, and I ended up walking backwards.

“Epho, leave him be,” Ugauc’s sire said, taking her by the arm and leading her away. I slowly made my way towards Ugauc’s side, nervous at so many scaly predators in the same cave as me.

Help me! I broadcasted to Ugauc. His sister looked at me, curiously.

“How did you get him to trust you so much?” She asked, moving aside a loose strand of (H/C) hair from my face, which I flinched away at.

“Udauh, please, leave (Y/N) alone,” Ugauc said. His sister ignored him, continuing to poke at me with a turquoise-scaled finger.

Udauh looked to her brother. “Not keen on sharing your pet, ay?”

I scowled. “I am not his pet!” I shouted. The other two dragons came closer again. I gripped Ugauc’s hand.

It’s alright; I’ll protect you.

“Ugauc, how did you find him?” Epho, Ugauc’s dam, asked him.

Ugauc glanced down at me. “This is, (Y/N)... he’s my soulmate... that’s why I left suddenly; to figure out why I was led to an elven village by our bond.”

Udauh cocked her head at me. “He’s cute, and those ears are adorable.” She flicked my ear with her finger. I shuddered; elf ears are very sensitive.

Ugauc was looking at his parents, waiting for a response. They seemed to smile.

Ugauc’s sire spoke first. “Welcome to Mistpeaks, (Y/N). I am Koro, though I’m sure Ugauc has told you that already.”

Ugauc glanced aside, I nodded falsely and smiled.

“This is my mate, Epho, and my daughter, Udauh,” Koro continued.

I cleared my throat quietly. “It’s great to finally meet you all. I’ve heard lots.” I lied.

And then the heavens opened, hail and water spilled from the sky. The others looked out the mouth of the cave as this new sound came from outside.

I sighed softly, leaning on Ugauc; it was oddly cozy in the cave, hearing the hail and rain outside.

We stayed in Mistpeaks for two days; Ugauc spent the first day catching up with his family, we spent the second near the lake. Ugauc’s family asked me plenty of questions, curious about elves and our society. I didn’t mind the questions, but it surprised me how inaccurate they’re rumours were about us.

Spending time with them reminded me of my own family and how much I missed them.

It was early the third morning when Ugauc came back into his old cave. I was curled up under the bison hide, staring at the fire in the middle of the cave.

The morning was fresh. Dew covered each blade of grass and each bud on every tree.

“Good morning, little elfling,” Ugauc whispered, kissing my head. He sat beside me.

I heard three heavy thuds outside of the cave. I looked in their direction and then to Ugauc.

“Are they here to see us off?” I asked.

Ugauc nodded. “Yeah,” he sighed sadly.

“We could stay longer if you want?” I offered; I was quite enjoying seeing how dragons lived.

Ugauc shook his head. “We have to go soon before others from my clan pick up our scent… But we could always come back when we’re done in the central region… or my parents will visit,” He added with a mutter.

I giggled. Ugauc smiled and smothered the fire. I finished packing up our belongings.

We walked outside, getting a furious hug from Udauh the second we emerged.

“I’m gonna miss you!” She said gravelly. “Especially you,” she said to Ugauc.

Epho wrapped me up in her arms and rested her head on my head. I gave Ugauc an unsure look, which he smiled at. “Oh, I’m gonna miss you, little elfling!” She said, squeezing me. It annoyed me that the nickname had passed from Ugauc to his dam, but I would not ruin the moment.

Koro came closer and gave me a smile. Epho released me from her hold. “It was great to meet you, (Y/N). I hope you’ll pay us a visit when you're done in the central region.”

I nodded. “Absolutely. And it was great to meet you too. All of you.” I looked to all of them; they had been some great hosts, and dragons I was happy to have them in my family.

After a few more goodbyes, Ugauc shifted, ready to leave before the rest of the dragons awoke.

“See you in a few months!” I called from Ugauc’s back, just as he took off.

We were flying for a few minutes before Ugauc spoke.

(Y/N), he started.

Yes, Ugauc.

I’m sorry I didn’t tell you about them… my family.

I—it’s fine… but you have to tell me some stories from your chi—hatchling-hood to make up for it. Your mother could only tell me so much in the space of two days.

Ugauc chuckled. Alright, but I want to hear some from you.

[dragon-fics]

DOS: Secret to Not-So-Secret {pt. 3} (Ugauc X Male Elf/Reader)

Chapter summary: Eda and Ugauc finally meet. But how long will it be sefore anyone else finds out about your secret...

pt. 1, Pt. 2, pt. 3 pt. 4, pt.5

N/T: New Trade (Blacksmithing, carpentry, writing, sculpting, etc.)

“Who is that?!” Ugauc and Eda exclaimed in unison.

I froze, glancing from one to the other.

Eda scowled and placed her hand on the hilt of the sword she carried. “Get away from us!” She warned, removing the blade from its scabbard and stepping in front of me.

Ugauc’s lips lifted as he growled, sharp canines flashing. He looked from me to Eda, unsure what to do.

“Eda! Wait! Please,” I pleaded, stepping in front of her.

“(Y/N), what are you doing?!” Eda called.

I stood firmly between her and Ugauc; I couldn’t let them hurt each other.

I gave Ugauc a small smile and his stance slowly loosened, but he didn’t take his eyes off of Eda.

I looked to Eda; she was still gripping onto her sword. “Ugauc won’t do anything, I promise, so please, put down your sword, Eda,” I begged.

Eda looked from me to Ugauc. “If I do, you need to explain everything.”

“I will, I promise.” I glanced to her hand. “Please, just put it down and give it to me.” I held my hand out to receive the sword.

Eda looked away and drew in a breath. She put her sword back in its scabbard and slowly removed it. She looked to Ugauc as she held the scabbard between both her hands. “You better not try anything,” she warned. Ugauc didn’t respond. Eda finally placed the sword in my hand.

“Thank you,” I whispered, feeling somewhat relieved she had handed it over. I took a step away from them both.

“Ugauc, this is my sister Eda,” I gestured to her. Ugauc inclined his head. “Eda, this is—“ I caught myself, unsure what to tell her. “This is my soulmate, Ugauc.” I gestured to him this time. He smiled.

I looked to Eda as a wave of emotions contorted her face. Surprise, confusion, anger and fear were some I saw.

She stayed quiet for a long time, trying to hide her emotions as much as possible.

I backed up towards Ugauc, perhaps out of fear. He moved towards me and put an arm and wing around me.

“How are you so sure?” She asked.

I explained to Eda about the ‘invisible bond’ that led Ugauc here, how we met and  our secret meetings—which happened to just spill out of my mouth.

Eda sat down on the bed of animal hides. She sighed and put her head in her hands.

“This... explains a lot, like where you were during the hunt and why you didn’t come home, why you haven’t been focused on (N/T), and why you disappear for so long every day.” She sighed again.

The wind howled outside. I sat down beside her and shared the bison hide on my shoulders.

“I’m sorry I couldn’t tell you, but Ugauc really cares about me.” I held his hand as he stood beside us. “And I really care about him.”

Eda smiled softly and tugged on the bison blanket. “I won’t tell anyone, I promise, but people are noticing your disappearance. And soulmates are such a huge thing among our people. You’re going to need Mama and Papa soon before they push you to find someone you’ve already found.”

“That’s not going to be for years. But if I do that...” I started. Ugauc placed a hand on my shoulder.

“How about we just survive this snowstorm first, and think about that later,” he suggested. I smiled softly and nodded.

Our father had been one of the fiercest hunters for many years for our clan. If I told him about Ugauc, he wouldn’t live to see another sunrise—and he knew this.

Ugauc gathered the wood he had dropped and set up a fire. Once he had built a pyramid shape, he shifted to his beast form. Eda was taken aback and almost reached for her sword. I took her hand in  mine, reassuring her it was alright.

Ugauc blew a small yellow flame onto the pyramid of sticks. They caught fire after he held the flame for a few moments. He studied the flames before shifting back to his humanoid form and settling on the hides beside us.

Eda slowly relaxed and focused on the flames.

“Let’s just hope we don’t run out of firewood,” Ugauc whispered, running his fingers through my hair.

*-*-*-*

No POV

“Where do you think you’re going?” Eda asked (Y/N) as he walked passed her in the streets, heading towards the woods. It had been over a week since the blizzard and most of the snow had yet to melt.

“Mama needs some apples to make a pie, so I said I’d go,” (Y/N) replied, tapping his satchel.

Eda sighed. “We both know you’re not just going to do that.”

(Y/N) sighed. “Of course I’m going to see him,” he replied, agitated. He and Eda walked towards the woods together. “He’s my boyfriend, and I enjoy spending time with him.”

Eda sighed this time. “You’re going to get caught, eventually.”

“That’s why I’m visiting him as much as possible.”

“No, I mean... Someone might follow you, and you know how people feel about—“ She looked around and lowered her voice, “—his kind.”

They stopped in front of the line of trees.

“I know, that’s why I take a route no one will ever find, or be able to follow.”

Eda was now extremely agitated at her brother’s cheeriness, and quite possibly, idiocity. “Just... make sure no one follows you.”

(Y/N) smiled. “I’ll be fine, Eda.” He placed a hand on his sister’s shoulder and walked off.

Eda watched him leave before starting back towards their house.

***

All the while, Bracken had been listening.

His kind? Is (Y/N) seeing someone from a different clan?

With his new trade, perhaps he wanted to meet someone from the (N/T) clan from the south?

But he’s supposed to be training here, as Fírning’s apprentice. So why contact that clan?

And father has never been keen on their leader. Perhaps this is an act of vengeance for abandoning him during the hunt.

But if he’s doing that, he’d be a traitor to the clan!

He needs to be stopped.

Bracken nodded his head firmly and followed (Y/N) through the trees, shouldering his crossbow and griping the hilt of his sword.

*-*-*-*

Y/N’s POV

I hummed softly as I picked apples from one tree. I often hummed while doing tasks; it was just my way of getting through them.

As I put another apple into my satchel, I heard wingbeats above me. I looked up to see Ugauc hovering over me. He landed softly beside me.

“Good morning, little elfling,” he hummed, planting a kiss on my forehead.

“Good morning, fierce dragon,” I replied, testing out a new nickname for him.

Ugauc chuckled and held me in his arms. “I like that one.”

“You say that every time,” I said, smiling.

“That’s because I love everything your creative little mind comes up with and everything you say.”

My cheeks flushed bright red.

“Ugauc!” I scolded, hitting him on the shoulder.

“But it’s true,” he said defensively. I shook my head and went back to picking apples.

“So, why do you need so many?” Ugauc asked, picking apples from a higher branch and putting them in my satchel.

“Mama is baking today, so I’m here to collect apples for her pies. They’re delicious,” I added.

Ugauc smiled. “They don’t sound very appealing to my tastebuds, but to each his own.”

“I could bring you some tomorrow... if any survive that long.”

“All right, I’ll give it a try, if you can save it from the savages you have as a family,” Ugauc joked.

I laughed. He smiled.

But then his face dropped, and he whipped around, his face hard and his eyes scanning the bushes behind me.

Before I could ask anything an arrow came from the shadows and hit Ugauc in the shoulder. Another one came from the same spot, but he caught it just before they embedded a second one in his thigh.

My breath hitched; someone had found us.

Ugauc growled and shifted to his beast form, emerald scales glistening in the sun. The arrows that had been embedded in his flesh fell from the wounds onto the ground as he shifted.

“No!” I shouted as he shifted. I heard a crossbow being loaded again, but with a different arrow; a slaying arrow. An arrow that could kill a dragon if aimed correctly; usually for the artery in the dragon's neck

“Don’t!” I called, but they had loosed the arrow. Time slowed down as I saw the four-pointed broadhead arrow slice through the scales on Ugauc’s neck. Navy blood spilled from the wound as the arrow embedded itself in a tree behind Ugauc.

Ugauc fell to the ground with a heavy thud(i). I rushed over to him as blood trickled around the front of his neck.

“No. No. No. No. No!” I begged, frantically thinking about what I could do. Tears spilled from my eyes, I had to stop the bleeding.

I lifted my knee-length grey tunic off my body and wrapped it around his neck.

As I studied where the wound was, I knew the arrow had missed the major artery to the brain, but there was still so much blood and I had no way to heal him quickly.

“Just hang in there, ok, Ugauc? Please, just hang in there!” I pleaded, putting pressure on the wound, my tunic already turning navy.

“Fraternising with a dragon. Who knew you would be the one to do such a thing?” Came a male voice, one I knew.

“Bracken,” I seethed, whipping my head around to him.

“You were supposed to kill the dragon! Not kiss him! How could you betray your own clan like this?” Bracken yelled.

I wiped away my tears and got to my feet. “I didn’t betray anyone, and he has done nothing!” I yelled back.

“If we thought like that, and waited for them to attack us, we wouldn’t be standing and our village would be ruins!” Bracken stepped closer to me and punched me in the nose. My head exploded with pain as I fell to the ground.

“Bracken!” Called Eda’s voice. “Step away from him!” She ordered. But before he could move, Eda hit him across the head with the hilt of her sword, knocking him out.

She rushed over to me. “(Y/N)!” She shouted as I lost consciousness.

Here’s a meme for y’all that inspired a line in this.

[dragon-fics]

DOS: Captured to Freed {pt.4} (Ugauc X Male Elf/reader)

Chapter summary: You and Ugauc have been brought back to your village... but how will your family feel about him.

pt. 1, Pt. 2, pt. 3 pt. 4, pt.5, pt. 6

My head was throbbing, and a bright light was shining onto my face. I really didn’t want to open my eyes.

But then it all came back to me; Ugauc getting attacked, Bracken assaulting me, Eda knocking him out...

Ugauc bleeding out.

Ugauc!

My eyes snapped open. I was in my room, lying in my bed, a sheet and duvet draped over my body. Evening sunlight shone in through the window into my eyes and the room, reflecting off the glass of the small terrariums on my writing desk.

I pushed myself up slowly and rubbed my head; Bracken had hit me hard. I winced and edged towards the mirror on my wall. Purple rings surrounded my eyes and my eyes were bloodshot.

I groaned, I felt awful.

I slowly made my way out of my room and downstairs to the kitchen-dining area. My family sat around the table, my father leaning on the solid oak, my mother fiddling with a plaited bracelet, and my brother, Eldrin, was folding a corner of parchment from his spellbook anxiously as he skimmed over the words. Eda was staring at her sword, looking at its dull metal as she bit the inside of her cheek. They all looked so tense.

I gulped and made my way down the stairs. All eyes were on me as soon as the wood creaked beneath my feet.

I looked down, focusing on the knots in the wooden boards as I stopped by the table and sat beside Eldrin, as I do for every meal.

Everyone was eerily quiet. I wanted to ask about Ugauc, and how long I’d been out, and what had happened, and where Bracken was, but I held my tongue.

Mama looked to Papa, I watched as the two exchanged looks.

I have never been this nervous.

Mama put her hand on Papa’s and gave him a soft look. Papa drew in a breath and sat down at the head of the table.

“(Y/N),” he started in a soft tone.

I glanced aside and drew in a breath. “Yes, Papa?” I breathed.

“Who were you with in the woods?” He never took his eyes off of me.  

I looked across at Eda.

“I promised you I wouldn’t tell anyone,” she replied, her hand stroking the blade of her sword.

“You knew about this?” Mama hissed, whipping her head around to Eda.

Eda inclined her head. “Yes.”

Mama gave both of us a look of distrust.

“I was with Ugauc, the dragon Bracken shot,” I answered, studying dark knot in the oak table.

Papa looked down at the wood. “That much was obvious.” He looked up at the lanterns hanging above the table. “How did you meet this dragon?”

“He—He’s my soulmate.” I saw my parents exchange worried looks. “Please, believe me! He has done nothing!”

Mama looked from me to Papa. “Calm down, (Y/N)” she soothed. “Just—“ she cut herself off to glance at Papa. “Just start from the beginning and leave nothing out.”

I released a shaky breath and started the thrilling tale of how I met my soulmate.

*-*-*-*

Eda and I peered around the corner of the smithy, looking across at the clan leader’s house. It was five storeys tall, with three sublevels below the ground—the biggest house in the village. And in one of those underground rooms, was Ugauc. The only light was from the windows of the houses and the torches lit in the streets.

“What if the others don’t believe Mama and Papa? What if they know it’s an illusion?” I thought aloud as we hid behind the wall.

Eda put a hand on my shoulder. “They won’t. Eldrin’s illusions are the most realistic ones you’ll ever see.” She poked my the tip of my nose.

“Ow.” I hissed. Eldrin had healed most of my bruising, but my nose was still tender.

“Sorry,” Eda whispered. She looked back around at the house. “C’mon, let’s go.”

She grabbed my wrist and jogged towards the house. I jogged after her, glancing over my shoulder from time to time.

We knelt by the steps up to the front door. Eda looked up at the windows, trying to spot an open window. I looked around, making sure no one was spying on us.

“You said you could communicate telepathically with each other, right?” Eda asked.

“Yeah, but I have no idea how to do that.”

“Well, at least try. Just think about him or something. That might do it,” Eda suggested as she dug her fingernails under each window on the ground level to prise it open—but none of them budged.

I did as she suggested and thought about Ugauc, focusing on his features; his green scales, his dark skin and hair, his horns, his wings, his eyes, his face, his firm jawline, his muscles.

My expression melted as I thought about his muscles.

Soon I felt as though my soul had left my body and was just floating in nothingness. But then I can across a wave of energy, almost as if Ugauc’s soul had come close to mine.

(Y/N)?

It was Ugauc’s voice. He sounded tired, but it was his voice.

My heart raced. He was alive! I quickly calmed myself down.

Yes, Ugauc, it’s me. We’re here to rescue you. Do you have any idea where you are?

In the biggest house in the village... They brought me down three flights of stairs... I’m at the very end of the corridor.

We’ll try to get to you as soon as we can, Ugauc, I promise.

See you soon, (Y/N).

Ugauc? I asked, trying to hold on to the connection.

Yes? His voice was fading.

I love you.

Pink and red tones came into my vision.

I love you too, (Y/N).

His presence faded from my mind. I brought my mind back to my body and opened my eyes.

“He’s weak,” I said ruefully. “he says he’s on the third sublevel, in the room farthest away from the staircase.”

Eda nodded.

And then chaos erupted. First came screams and cries, then shouts; “Dragon!” “The beast is angry that we took its brother!” “Kill it! Quickly!”

The large door of the house opened suddenly.

“Father!” Called Bracken. “They have spotted another beast!”

Moments later, Bracken, his father, and several members of the hunting squad rushed out of the house. Eda and I curled up among the bushes beside the stairs. The elves ran off to the south of the village, leaving the door open.

I looked up, noticing the light streaming down from the doorway. I swiftly ran up the stairs, Eda behind me.

We ran down the corridor towards the leader’s study, which was where the stairs to the basement were. A long time ago, Bracken and I had been close friends, and one time when I was over, he had shown me the staircase to the lower levels of the house—before his father made us leave.

In front of the doorway was a map of the village and the villages nearby. I lifted the map and opened the door behind it, looking down at the dimly lit spiral stone stairs ahead of me.

“(Y/N)! Wait up!” Eda hissed. I waited for her before starting down the stairs.

“Since when have you been a ‘run first, think later’ type of elf?” Eda asked, staying a step behind me.

“Bracken nearly killed my soulmate, and he might die now. I’m not waiting around for that to happen before I can say goodbye,” I whispered. “Or even get to introduce him to my family.”

We faced a long corridor, with about a dozen barred cells on either side—they seemed small from the outside. I ran forward, to where I saw another staircase, running passed the green flames from the lanterns hanging on the wall—one one colour dragons can’t see. I heard Eda race after me.

We worked our way down the spiral staircase and rushed passed more cells. Those were bigger than the ones on the previous floor.

I dashed down the last staircase and was met with the fresh smell of blood. I gagged and forced myself to keep going. At the end, I could make out a large shape lying on the ground in a huge cell. There were four others on this floor.

“Ugauc!” I called, running up to the bars. He was in his beast form, held down by chains that were bolted to the ground. There were several cuts on his neck, back and wings, all of which were oozing with navy blood. His breathing was shallow and raspy.

“Oh! Ugauc!” I fell to my knees and pressed my head against the bars. I reached through the bars and touched the rough scales of his snout. “I’m so sorry.”

A gurgle came from him. It was very different to his shallow breathing and raspy breath. His amber eyes slowly peeled open. I smiled sadly at him and he released an aching whine.

Eda came up to the bars. “Stop being so dramatic. It’s not locked.” She slid the latch open. I got to my feet and followed Eda into the cell.

Eda went to rummage around for the key to remove the bolts from the ground so we could remove the chains. I grabbed the hunting knife from my belt and cut the rope tied around Ugauc’s snout.

“Just hang in there!” I whispered to Ugauc. Eda went around and removed the bolts from the cell floor.

But then I heard something. Footsteps. Echoing footsteps that were getting closer.

I whipped my head around and got to my feet.

“It’s probably Papa,” Eda said, removing the last bolt from the ground. “He figured we might need some help getting Ugauc out of here.”

I looked from the spiral staircase, to her, to the staircase again. And sure enough, Papa came into view, running down towards us.

“How fairs the escape plan?” He asked, stopping in front of the cave.

“So far it’s going alright,” I responded.

Papa looked down at Ugauc. He slowly blinked back up at Papa.

Papa got down on one knee and looked at Ugauc. “Can you move?” He asked.

I... don’t think so... Ugauc said, exhausted of all his strength.

“He doesn’t think he can,” I repeated.

“Can you change to your other form?”

Ugauc breathed deeply and was wrapped in a cocoon of light. His human form knelt before us, leaning on his arms. His trousers were now shorter, ending above the knee from being on him when he was in his beast form. I knelt beside him and cupped his cheeks, placing a kiss on his forehead. He had wounds where the arrows had been embedded and he had several bruises on his abdomen.

“Let’s get you out of here,” Papa said, taking Ugauc under the arm and supporting him as we left for home.

*-*-*-*

I ran my hand through Ugauc’s hair as he slept on the living room couch. It was early the next morning—the day after Bracken had attacked us.

After we had gotten Ugauc home, we ransacked the leader’s home. To make it look like he had escaped or that the other ‘dragon’ had helped him.

I rested my arm on his chest and nestled my head on my arm and listened to his breathing. It wasn’t as shallow as it had been the night before. Eldrin had restored some of his strength so he could make it through the night... but it took a heavy toll on Eldrin—he almost passed out last night after performing the spell.

I looked out the lounge window behind the couch as the first few rays of sunlight shone through the trees onto the street outside. I yawned and relaxed my head back on my arm. I had slept very little during the night, worried that Ugauc might have forgotten where he was or what had happened, and so I slept in the living room.

I heard the floorboards creak behind me. I swung my head around.

Papa stood at the bottom of the stairs, stretching.

I turned my head back around, watching Ugauc again.

“How long have you been down here?” Papa asked, making his way over to me.

“A few hours,” I replied drowsily.

“In other words; you’ve been awake all night.”

I looked down at Ugauc.

Papa sat down beside me. “I understand that you care about him, but it’s not safe for either of you if he stays nearby.”

“I know. But I care about him too much to see him walk away... I don’t think I could ever be happy if I was away from him.”

“So, what are you saying?”

“I think—I think maybe we should leave... I’d have to talk to Ugauc first, but I think it’s our only option.”

*-*-*-*

Ugauc entered his cave, the leafy vines brushing against his bare chest, shoulders and wings. I could smell Elven blood on him and I could see some stains splattered on to his new brown trousers.

“Ugauc... what have you done?” I eyed him suspiciously. He had healed quickly since they imprisoned him; it had only been a few days since we had hid him in our home.

“I’ve dealt with Bracken,” He replied smugly. I felt my stomach twist into a knot.

“I wasn’t the only one who ‘dealt with him’,” he said defensively, seeing my expression. Eda, Eldrin, Mama and Papa entered the cave. I could see that Mama was ringing her hand and that Eda’s sword had some red droplet stains on it.

“Oh no,” I breathed.

“He’ll be fine, (Y/N),” Mama reassured.

“He just won’t be able to join the hunting squad, ever(i),” Eda added. Ugauc smirked at Eda. She smiled back.

“That’s reassuring,” I muttered. I glanced to the rucksack beside me.

This is probably the last time I’m ever going to see them. I thought to myself.

Mama came up to me first and wrapped her arms around me. I sunk into her hold. Papa joined next, and then my siblings.

I felt a lump form in my throat. “I’ll miss you all so much,” I forced out.

“I’m sure you’ll be much too busy to even think about us,” Eda said as we released each other.

I wiped away a tear and smiled.

“But you can come home whenever you want,” Mama said, kissing my brow.

“As long as you don’t bring trouble with you,” Papa added.

I laughed through my sadness. “I’ll try not to.”

Eldrin looked to the vines in the cave's mouth. “You should get going soon before Bracken’s father comes after Ugauc; no one can misjudge claw-marks.”

Ugauc scratched the back of his neck nervously.

I smiled and nodded. “Thank you for everything,” I said to my family. Ugauc came closer to us.

“I’ll never be able to repay you for what you have done. Thank you,” he said with a bow.

“Just keep, (Y/N) safe and that will be enough,” Papa said. Eda reached for her sword falsely, threateningly.

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Ugauc replied with a nervous laugh.

I smiled; at least my family knew where I would be and that I was safe. Ugauc and I planned on heading south, to a warmer climate so we could try some of those exotic fruits we had talked about.

I looked to Ugauc and with a quiet nod; we turned around, grabbed my rucksack and left the cave. We walked for a long while before Ugauc asked, “Have you ever tried flying?”

[dragon-fics]

Shruikan's Rider (SR): Prologue: A Broken Bond {Inheritance Cycle fanfic}

Book description: Alys Emmasdaughter is going through the worst pain any Rider can ever go through--her dragon is dying and there is no way to save him.

While she mourns his inevitable death, the Eldunarí at the Dragon Riders' Academy inform her of a dragon who is suffering a similar fate

Alys led her silver steed up the path to the Dragon Rider Academy, high on Mount Arngor. Icy wind skimmed against her bare, almond arms as she focused on the dirt path beneath her. She felt and looked unkept; her frizzy, black hair was like a bird's nest; her clothes torn; and her skin filthy and dotted with scars.

The attack had been unprovoked; all she and her dragon, Ugauc, wanted to do was to visit the Stone of Broken Eggs near Ellesméra.

But that didn't happen.

Several hooded figures had struck them down, all baring spears that glistened with what Alys found out later was Seithr Oil; the product known to be used by the Ra'zac.

Every night, all she heard was Ugauc's cries as spiked nets doused in the erosive liquid dragged him down. The scene played over and over in her head; his cries, the pain, the figures emerging from the night's shadows, and them stabbing him to death as she killed them all with her blade. One by one, they had crumbled to the ground, leaving nothing but their scarlet cloaks behind.

From there, she ran to Ellesméra, seeking the aid of the elves, who insisted on her leaving as soon as Ugauc was stable, saying his recovery would be long and waiting there would render her useless.

But where she was wouldn't matter; without her beloved partner-of-heart-and-mind, she was useless.

Alys paused where she was and looked up, fighting off the tears forming in her eyes—again. It surprised her she had anymore tears to cry after her long journey back. She'd sob as she rode, keen while she ate, and cry as she slept—she was empty without him.

the ball of sadness in her heart was heavy, growing on its own accord throughout the day, causing her to crumble into tears unannounced.

And now was one of those moments.

Alys' throat grew sore and her lip quivered. Why had they done what they did? And why now, of all times, had the sadness grown stronger?

She placed her hands over her eyes, taking a deep, shaky breath. The last time she had walked along this path—or rather had to walk along this path—was when she was summoned, six years ago, by Eragon himself to be tested at the age of sixteen. According to the Eldunarí, her dragon Ugauc was the one for her. And they were right.

She wanted to reflect further, to remember his hatching and their training and his personality and how perfect he was, but she'd just end up wailing halfway up a mountain near people who she was supposed to tutor; now wasn't the time to bawl.

Alys continued her breathing, slowly gathering herself and drying off her eyes. "Kausta, Epona," Come, Epona, she said to her elf horse, putting on the bravest of faces she could muster and continuing up the path.

As she climbed, she thought of ways to distract herself; like what to put in the letter to her family for this month, or which eggs were ready to hatch next month; all the while fighting off any memory of a green dragon that emerged in her mind.

Finally, she stood in front of the large, open black-painted steel gates, looking in at the large sandstone courtyard. A few Riders stood about, talking to each other and preparing their dragons for slights.

Again, her sadness swelled.

Not now, she insisted. Don't think about him.

Alys pushed her head up high, pushing back any tears that were read to form and walked through the courtyard, focusing only on the large oak doors in front of her. On one door was a lifelike carving of a dragon, surrounded by fog at its feet with a tongue of fire escaping its maw. It looked down at the figure carving in the opposite door—its rider. The Rider seemed to be neither elf nor human, male nor female. Its features were pointed, like an elf's, yet its build was broader like a human's.

As soon as she reached the door, Alys turned to Epona and removed her belongings—a small pack of food and a book along with a rolled-up blanket. "Elrun ono, fricai," Thank you, friend, she said, stroking Epona's face.

The mare leaned into her touch and backed away before trotting out of the courtyard and out of sight.

Alys drew in a breath, shoving a new pulse of sadness aside and pushing open the varnished door. On the other side, she saw a few students bustling through the hall, with small dragons following them. She swiftly turned to the nearest set of stairs, jogging up to the dormitories.

From the outside, all the dorms looked like the inside of a beehive, openings in the rock connected by balconies and stairs. Each hole was big enough for most dragons to fit through, just like the corridors in the Academy. on the inside, it was nowhere near as intricate-looking, just three levels lined with average-sized doors and a large open balcony on each floor, so the dragons could fly up to the balconies if they couldn't fit through.

Alys loved the layout. It was so simple yet so thoughtful, allowing the dragons and riders to be individual yet have they stay in the stay quarters.

Alys continued her walk to her dorm, slowly opening the door with a quiet creak. She half expected to see Ugauc land on the balcony and make his way towards her, past his nest and her bed and her bookcase overflowing with books to nuzzle her. She closed the door with a quiet click and tossed her stuff onto her bed and looked out through the balcony, holding her arms akimbo and breathing deeply.

Alys shook her head, her sadness growing. A tear fell down her cheek, slowly, as she looked at the bright sun. She looked down at Uguac's nest, a large indent in the stone floor, lined with a thin cushion, littered with green scales and tufts of fur and feathers.

She smiled sadly at it and looked over at the green fragments of Ugauc's dragon egg on her ebony bookshelf. She drifted over to it, picking up the largest piece of the emerald shell, the intact base of the egg, where Ugauc had comfortably sat after he hatched, looking around at the hatchery and his Rider with his curious amber eyes.

Alys sighed sadly, wiping away her tears and swallowing hard, burying the lump in her throat as best as she could. She returned the fragment to its spot and stood back, tears returning to her cheeks again. "I miss you," she whispered.

The heavy flapping of dragon wings came close to her balcony, and a sapphire blue dragon landed on it. Alys looked at her, wiping away her tears. "Hello, Saphira. Eragon," she greeted.

Eragon slid off his saddle, brunette locks bouncing as he landed. His brown eyes softened. "Alys... I got word from the elves as soon as you came to them," he started, coming closer, Saphira following close behind him. "And may I say, I am so, so sorry. I should've sent someone with you." He drew in a breath, smoothing his hair with both hands. "It shouldn't have happened. I promise we'll find out who's responsible."

Alys looked down. "That's thoughtful, Eragon," she said. "But I... I don't think I want to find out; it's not going to change anything."

Eragon paused. "Alys, you can't say that. It's important that someone is held responsible."

She shook her head, fighting off more tears. "I'm sorry. I—I can't do this now," she turned around, holding herself. "Please, let me grieve."

Eragon went to reach for her, but retracted his hand. "I will investigate, to save others." He sighed and glanced at Saphira. "When you're up for it, I'm sure Eldunarí would like your company; they want to talk to you."

Alys nodded dismissively and listened carefully as they left before letting out a choked sob.

*-*-*-*

It took Alys weeks before she could force herself to leave her room to actually talk to people. A few would stop by throughout the day, giving their condolences and offering her the food they had brought. She excepted most of the food but ate little of it.

She plodded her way to the Hall of Colours, keeping her head low as she nibbled on her last apple slice. She ignored everyone that passed, focusing solely on her meeting with the Eldunarí. Finally, she began her climb towards the eyrie—Eragon's sleeping quarters—high in the hold, and at the last stop, he turning into a small side tunnel. She entered the large, disk-like chamber, looking ahead at the many tiered daises that held the array of gleaming Eldunarí. Multi-coloured flecks of light beamed around the room, brightening the cool room immensely.

Alys' mind grazed against the dragons' minds. She found it soothing, feeling their calmness when all she had felt was heartbreak for so long. Her eyes landed on Umaroth's white Eldunarí. He and Glaedr were one of the few she always remembered.

Welcome, Alys-vinr, Umaroth greeted.

Hello, Umaroth and everyone else, she responded, keeping her mind as pain-free as possible. I heard you wanted to talk to me.

Yes, we have some news, Umaroth said elusively.

Alys' heart skipped a beat; could they help Ugauc? Could they save him?

Her joy and thoughts of Ugauc flowed to the Eldunarí.

No, I'm sorry. We cannot help him.

Her heart sank, but she forced herself to push it aside. Pray tell.

We have found a dragon who needs your help, Shur'tugal, Glaedr explained.

Alys sighed, aware they couldn't hear her irritation; she was in the worst shape to help anyone. Though she could admit that she needed a distraction. I appreciate the thought, but I'm not ready to help anyone. I'd only make things worse for them.

You misunderstand, Umaroth stated. This dragon has been without a rider for some time and is lost without them. Please, only you can empathise with him and save him from himself.