(A/N): Well, it took it's sweet time, but as promised here is the bonus chapter of One Day, this time from Cynder's perspective and based on the votes everyone gave in their reviews on the end of One Day!

Except it's not a bonus chapter anymore. Now it's a spin-off sequel. Why? Because I just can't make writing easy on myself, apparently. ^^; I had three scenes picked out from the votes on One Day, but then while writing the draft for the third scene I realized that the pacing would work much better if I spread it out into multiple scenes of their own, so one scene became a chapter instead. Then, while writing the draft for the first scene I realized that it was a pretty abrupt place to start a spin-off from, and then an idea popped into my head for an entirely new scene not even included in the reader votes that would work better. And that's how a 3-scene bonus chapter became a 2-chapter mini-sequel. I has regrets...

But, chapter 1 is done and it's here. ^^ Chapter 2 still needs its final draft written, but that shouldn't take me too much time and I will try to have it posted within a week or two. Until that time, I hope you enjoy!

It's so strange, how one dragoness can experience so many life-changing moments.

Looking back on the road that led me to where I am now, it's almost enough to make me dizzy sometimes. Since before I even hatched, my life has been thrown for one loop after another.

The day my egg was taken. The day I was corrupted. The day Spyro freed me, and showed me that such a thing as compassion even existed. The day I ran away, and the day we were frozen in time only to awaken to a changed world. The day we faced Malefor, the same day that I confessed my love to Spyro, and the day that his memory was taken away from him...

How could all of that happen to one person? It seemed impossible, and yet somehow—through some odd, convoluted, messed up combination of chance and fate—I've ended up here: in a thriving city, safe and surrounded by friends and even people I can call family, side by side with a dragon I adore. I don't know how I got here, but I'm so, so happy I did.

But it's never over, is it? Life keeps throwing curves our way, and tonight...

Tonight, my life goes through its biggest change yet.

-~.~-*-~.~-

Another day. Another fresh start.

If anyone asked me what it was like living with an amnesiac—and people regularly did, actually—there were a lot of things I could say to them. Stressful. Confusing. Draining, both physically and emotionally. Frustrating. The list went on and on. However, there was another word that came to mind that was as much a surprise to me as the people I spoke to.

Enlightening.

Before Spyro and I had returned to Warfang, it was so easy to take things for granted. Even for me, someone who was unbelievably blessed to even have a chance of experiencing the comforts and pleasures that so many people were used to from before the war, it was so easy to fall into the habit of expecting something good to be there every day. The support of the Guardians. The cause that I had taken up fighting for beside Spyro. The friendships that I had managed to make, like with Hunter. Every day when I woke up, those things would be there. It seemed impossible to think otherwise.

But for Spyro? He had no such illusions of things being guaranteed from day to day. When he woke up in the morning, everything he knew was in question. Every day the slate was wiped completely clean. Every day he had to start over, and as much as that was a terrible burden, it also meant that nothing could ever be taken for granted.

I had learned to embrace this truth to its full extent, just as Spyro was forced to. Every good thing that I was blessed with was something to treasure. Every morning with Spyro was a brand new opportunity to make the most of the time I had with him. Every day was a new start.

And today, that was more true than ever.

It was difficult to describe the mix of emotions that was rushing around inside my chest as I climbed the steps leading to the Citadel with a leather satchel hanging against my side. It was a confusing blend of excitement, nerves, giddiness and doubt that was completely unfamiliar to me. Never before in my life had I felt this eager for something, but also this unsure of it. Honestly, I couldn't decide whether to be amused or irritated about it.

It's actually happening today. My heart did an anxious flip in my chest at that thought.

The guards posted inside the main doorway waved with their wings as I entered, a gesture that I returned with a quick smile. There weren't many people in the corridors of the Citadel this early in the morning, but those that I did see were moving with noticeable haste in their steps like they were preparing for an important event. Another smile tugged at my lips; it was no mystery what this event was.

I didn't linger, instead making quick strides across the foyer on my way to the lounge and the small private library contained therein to return a couple of books I had borrowed several days earlier. Separate from the larger dedicated library housed deeper within the Citadel, the lounge's collection of knowledge was meant only for use by the Guardians, though others could use it with their permission as well. Only a select few others had unrestricted access, such as the Guardians' Chief Facilitator.

"Cynder!" a voice behind me suddenly called out, perfectly on cue. "Hey, Cynder! Just who I needed to see."

I froze mid-step, a sigh leaking through my nostrils. I was hoping to make it back home before Spyro woke up, but interruptions like this weren't going to help. It wasn't like I could actually say that, though, so I schooled my features into a patient smile and turned around.

"Morning, Ferno," I said to the male fire dragon that was jogging toward me. "Need something?"

Ferno slid to a stop a pace away from me and inclined his head in greeting. "Well, first, congratulations again on the promotion. I know I said this already, but you really do deserve it." A small smirk grew at the corner of his muzzle before he added, "Boss."

I allowed a grin to form and chuckled, feeling both flattered and just slightly awkward. Ferno was only a couple of years my elder, but that was enough to make it feel a bit weird when he addressed me as a superior. "Well, thank you. I really appreciate it."

In truth, I was still just coming to grips with it. The position of Facilitator to the Guardians had only been created a couple of years ago, and in terms of power and authority it was second only to the Guardians themselves. The reason for its inception was fairly straightforward, really: While it had only taken a moment for Spyro to repair the physical damage that Malefor's war had brought on the world, the scars left on society were going to take a long time to heal. It was a massive job, and one the Guardians couldn't do all on their own.

So, they created a new branch of staff in the Citadel, one that could manage the day to day matters in the Realms, domestic and beyond, while the Guardians focused their full attention on restoration. Several apprentices were selected as Facilitators with a wide range of duties, all working toward the title of Chief Facilitator and the much greater authority and responsibilities that came with it.

I must have been a favourite for the position. Just two days ago, on my hatchday, the Guardians came to me with the news of my promotion. It was such an incredible honour, and I still couldn't quite believe it. Barely even an adult, and already trusted with such responsibility? It was huge!

I was so grateful for it though. It was going to be a ton of work, but it was good work. This was my chance to really help in healing our world. Now, no longer would restoring the world be solely Spyro's feat in our partnership. Now I had a part to play in it too.

It was at that moment that Ferno gave a faint cough, reminding me of my current circumstances, and when I looked closer at his face I saw a sheepish expression there.

"Now, I know you're supposed to be on leave today," he began, and already I could see where this was going, "but I was really hoping I could get your input on something."

I suppressed a sigh, half exasperated by this request and half amused. Well...more like a sixty-forty split, really. Regardless, I forced the professional smile back onto my lips. Time to play my part.

"What's the trouble?"

"It's the faun dignitaries," Ferno explained quickly. "We just received a message late last night that they wanted to push the schedule for their meeting with the Guardians forward. They're already en-route and will be arriving late tomorrow instead of next week, but the guest rooms are still being renovated."

"Tomorrow?" I repeated, and Ferno nodded.

I hummed lowly, a frown growing on my muzzle. This certainly did present a problem. The fauns from Summer Forest were a culture that highly valued natural surroundings, and so for the past few weeks work had been underway to add a more natural feel to the guest quarters in the Citadel. There was no way the work could be completed in less than a day now, though, and the faun dignitaries would not be comfortable in the much more artificial, urban environment that was Warfang's core. The only other greenery near enough to the Citadel—

My head shot up, and Ferno fixed me with a curious, expectant look.

"Isn't there a new housing block that just went up at the edge of Oakwood Park?" I asked.

The fire dragon blinked in surprise before a thoughtful look came over him. "Yes, the new villas. Construction was finished just a couple of months ago when I last heard about it. I'm pretty sure that there are some biped-sized ones among them."

"See if you can find the landowner and ask if the Guardians can rent one or two of them for the next few weeks. Preferably ones with back terraces that open right up onto the park."

Ferno straightened up sharply and gave a firm nod of his head. "Will do, boss. Thanks!"

I grinned and simply nodded back. Taking his cue to leave, Ferno spun around and hurried off back across the foyer, heading for the Civil Affairs wing where he would find the records of recent construction projects in Warfang. I watched him go with a smile, my chest swelling with a brief sense of pride. Was that my first potential political incident averted as Chief Facilitator?

I had a new bounce in my step as I resumed my path to the lounge, and thankfully I made it without any further interruptions. Quiet fell around me as I closed the door with my tail, the room empty except for me. It was such a cozy space, the walls covered in shelves with hundreds upon hundreds of books and scrolls lining them, as well as a round table and cushions in the centre. I found it greatly preferable to the Citadel's main library for the feeling of privacy that it granted.

I lingered there for only a moment to take in the calm atmosphere before making my way over to one of the shelves and removing my satchel with my wing. Opening the flap, I withdrew the small collection of books inside and began returning them to their proper places. Soon only one remained, and I paused for a second looking down at its rather simple but straightforward title: "Traditions of the Dragon Courting Process".

I almost scoffed. It seemed like such a silly thing to spend my time on, especially since I wasn't primarily known for indulging in my...emotional side. However, I had a very strong motivation for borrowing this book in particular—in fact, I had borrowed it multiple times over the past few years. The thing was, before now I had absolutely zero experience with the social norms of dragon culture, especially courting, and this book had proven invaluable in filling in some of those crucial gaps. Plus, today was a very particular occasion.

Today, Spyro came of age.

Ever since the months leading up to my own hatchday, questions about this event had been storming through my mind. It had excited me just as much as it terrified me, and since then I had been returning to this lounge and its collection of books on a nearly daily basis. I needed to learn everything I could about this time in a dragon's life. What was the process? What did dragons and dragonesses normally do in courtship? How did they select their life partner, and was there any ritual or ceremony to declare that bond? What were the roles? What were the expectations?

The book and the Guardians had been an invaluable source of answers, thankfully. The process itself was actually quite straightforward, as it turned out. Aside from guidelines on proper etiquette and respectful treatment toward each other, as well as common gestures of devotion, courting was mainly up to the individuals involved. Once both members of the pair were of age, though, that was where the main piece of actual tradition came in. The male would make the first move, inviting the dragoness to become a mated pair. The female had the power in the final decision. It was her choice whether the dragon was right for her. If she agreed, that was it. Her word was final. There was no public ceremony like some races performed. There was just the act itself, and then it was finished. They were bound for eternity.

That thought sent a thrill of excitement down my spine—Spyro and I, officially together for the rest of our lives!—but with it came a wave of apprehension. There was still an unanswered question in my mind, and it was a big one.

Would Spyro do it?

I wanted to believe that he would. I wanted to believe his feelings for me would lead him to seize this moment and seal us as a pair forever. I wanted to so desperately, but it was so far from a guarantee, wasn't it? I knew the process and the tradition. I knew what to do. But he didn't. He never had a chance to learn more than the very basics of what it meant to be a dragon before his amnesia struck, and learning it now was simply impossible. He didn't even know he was of age today, or what it meant to be so. He didn't know how much I wanted this—how much we both did, if our past conversations on the subject were true.

Would he ask? Would he even think of it?

I could make the first move instead of him and ask in his place. It wasn't unheard of from what the Guardians told me, but I really didn't want to. It was an insult to his pride. To do so would be to belittle his role, and making that decision for him would label him as weak in peoples' eyes. If he wasn't strong enough to even take the first step with a mate to be, how could he be expected to protect and support her?

It was a foolish accusation, and I knew it. Pretty much everyone knew it. Even without his memory or his powers Spyro was still strong physically, and he was fiercely loyal and caring. He was the kind of dragon any dragoness would dream of having as a mate, so who cared if he was the one to ask or not? But, even so, that was the reputation that I would force on him if I made that choice.

But then what was I supposed to do?

I let out a heavy sigh, staring down at the book in my paws with a feeling of helplessness. I wanted Spyro as my mate so badly, but with his memory the way it was, him asking was a big gamble. I didn't want to coerce him into asking me either, though. It had to be his choice, otherwise it just wouldn't feel right, but if he didn't do it today...

I was so deep in my troubled thoughts that I didn't notice the voices behind me at first. When I did I jolted up in surprise and swung my head around to see Flora standing inside the lounge, turning back to address Volteer in the hall. Halfway through the turn they both noticed me at the same time, though.

"Oh," Flora said before smiling brightly. "Hi, Cynder. Wasn't expecting to find you here."

"Indeed!" Volteer nodded. "Most unusual and unexpected for our path to cross with yours at this hour. Doubtlessly we both believed you would be with Spyro as he awakens, as per your usual routine."

It took me a second to get over my surprise and find my voice, but finally I answered, "Oh, uh, yeah. I just had a couple of things to take care of before he woke up. It's fine: I left a note explaining that I would be back soon in case he's up before I get back."

They both nodded in understanding. Volteer then bowed his head in farewell.

"Well, I must be taking my leave of you now. There is still much to prepare for the banquet this afternoon, and the time is approaching fast! I look forward with all eagerness and anticipation to seeing you there. Oh, and Cynder, do wish Spyro a happy hatchday for me when you return to him."

I offered a smile in response, my troubles momentarily pushed aside by his kind gesture. "Of course."

"Bye, Master Volteer," Flora said brightly, waving a wing. "See you at the party."

Volteer nodded and set off, the almost giddy smile still gracing his muzzle as he disappeared into the corridor. Flora shut the door after he'd gone and turned toward a bookshelf near where I stood, scanning the shelves. I watched her for a second before my eyes fell to the book in my paws again, the tight, anxious feeling returning to my gut.

"Excited?"

I jolted when Flora spoke up unexpectedly and quickly turned a questioning look toward her. She was grinning at me, glancing every now and then at the book I was holding. A mischievous glimmer was in her eyes.

"I..." I fumbled before shaking my head roughly. "Yeah. Yeah, I am excited. Today...it's going to be a big day."

"Did you get the invitations?"

A more genuine smile crossed my muzzle, and I reached into my satchel with a paw to pull out the two sealed letters that I received just the other day. Flora's eyes immediately lit up.

"Whoa," she gasped. "That's great! I'm so jealous. I've always wanted to see Crystal Bay."

I chuckled quietly. "I have no doubt that a future Guardian could get her paws on an invitation if she wanted to."

Flora also laughed. "Yeah. As if I would ever have time for it, though."

I let out another quiet laugh before my eyes fell once more to the book. Immediately my worries and doubts returned, my face clouding, and it only took a moment for Flora to notice.

"What's wrong?" she asked, concern quickly entering her tone.

I sighed, unsure how to put my troubles into words. Flora shifted closer, laying a paw gently on my shoulder.

"Cynder, what is it?" she pressed. "Aren't you happy? You've been looking forward to this so much! Today's finally the day that you and Spyro can become life mates!"

I didn't move, my tense expression unwavering. Another small, anxious sigh escaped me.

"But what if he doesn't ask?"

The other dragoness faltered, blinking a few times with a started look on her face.

"What?" she frowned. "Cynder, what are you talking about? Of course he will."

"How do you know, though?" I protested. "He doesn't know anything about courtship or choosing a mate. He doesn't even know how old he is today. He doesn't know the significance of it. How can I expect him to make that kind of decision when he doesn't even have two hours of memory for context?"

Flora didn't answer for a moment, studying me and looking like she was considering her response carefully. Finally, though, she shifted slightly in front of me to draw my eyes up to her.

"Cynder, you have nothing to worry about," she said firmly. "Spyro is madly in love with you. Anyone can see it. I would bet my life that as soon as he finds out that he's able to choose you as his mate, he will."

"But what if the topic just doesn't come up? I don't want to force it out of him. I want it to truly be his decision."

"How is the topic not going to come up?" Flora exclaimed with a small laugh. "You've set this up perfectly for that, and I guarantee you that he's already thinking about it. He's asked the Guardians about it so many times by now, I would be absolutely shocked if he didn't follow through today. You just have to trust him."

I held her gaze for several seconds after that, surprised by her conviction. She really did sound so sure of this. Why couldn't I be that confident? Was that really it? Did I not trust Spyro with something this important to both of us?

A twinge of guilt rose in my chest. I really had been doubting him a lot in this, hadn't I? I knew how much he loved me. He never hesitated to express it any chance he got, so why was I so worried that he wouldn't do the same now? His amnesia was definitely an obstacle, but he had never let obstacles get in his way before. He was still capable of overcoming so much.

How had I forgotten that?

I shook my head, ashamed of myself of losing faith in my partner like this, but also relieved to have those doubts off of my chest. Now I was really glad that Flora had happened across me like this. I'd needed someone to knock some sense into me.

"Thanks," I said to her, a smile growing on my muzzle. "You're right. Spyro will come through for me like he always has."

"That's the spirit!" Flora beamed. "I can't tell you how happy I am for you both."

I smiled more easily after that, the light, bubbly feeling of excitement from before swelling in my chest. "It's hard to believe that it's actually time. I really am ecstatic about this. It's just so much to take in at once!"

"Well, I'm proud of you guys. You really deserve each other."

I smiled broadly at her. "Thank you."

A beat of silence passed after that, my eyes falling once more to the book as a million thoughts raced through my mind. Thoughts of today. Thoughts of our future together. We had already been a steady couple for nearly a decade, but after this our union would be official. It would be a whole new step in our lives together; another turning point to treasure, and I was so ready for it.

But...

My smile faded slowly, the warmth in my chest wilting, and all at once the quite went from energized to uncertain. Flora leaned closer when she saw my expression shift, worry once more shining in her eyes.

"Cynder?"

"I just wish..." I began, my tone reluctant. "Out of everything we've experienced together over the past few years..."

I sighed deeply, my eyes closing for a moment. The next words felt heavy in my chest, and a part of me felt guilty for thinking them, but I had to say them regardless.

"...I just really wish that this one thing could stick..."

Flora was completely silent. It looked like she couldn't come up with a single thing to say in response to that, and honestly I probably wouldn't have been able to in her place either. The concern had only grown in her expression too. It was almost a full minute before she was able to respond.

"I...really don't know what I can say to that," she admitted with a small sigh. "I don't think anyone can really understand what you go through. I guess...you two always look so happy together, I never really thought about that side of things before. That must be so difficult."

I nodded absently, my gaze distant. "I just get a bit...jealous sometimes, I guess. Other couples are able to cherish these really big moments for as long as they want, but we don't have that. I do, but Spyro doesn't. It's not something we can share like others do. Without his half of it there...a lot of things just feel...incomplete."

I trailed off, my jaw clenching slightly from the mix of regret and bitterness that was rising in my from these thoughts. I knew dwelling on them wouldn't help anything, but I couldn't just keep them bottled up forever either.

"We're going to become mates today," I said softly, and a faint, wistful smile touched my muzzle at those words despite my brooding. "This is one of the biggest moments in our lives, and I really am so excited for it...but then tomorrow morning Spyro is going to wake up, and it will be like it never happened. Sometimes I just...I really wish things were different."

Flora's paw squeezed my shoulder, a deep, thoughtful look on her face. It was another moment before she spoke, and when she did her tone was firm and serious.

"Cynder, are you happy with Spyro?"

My head snapped up instantly, rocking back as this question completely blindsided me.

"What?"

"Are you happy being with him?" Flora repeated.

I felt my eyes narrow accusingly. "Yes! Absolutely, I'm happy being with Spyro! His amnesia does come with challenges, for sure, but that doesn't mean I don't love every moment I spend with him! I'm shocked you even have to ask that!"

Flora nodded her head firmly, looking satisfied with my response.

"Good. Then I know you'll find a way to deal with this."

I faltered, tilting my head questioningly at her. A smile was growing on her lips, her expression softening, while I was just trying to figure out where she was going with this.

"You have a lot on your shoulders, caring for Spyro the way you are," she said. "Everyone can see that, and it's not a surprise to anybody that it weighs on you pretty heavily, but you also have a dragon that adores you with all of his heart, and that is entirely devoted to your happiness. That is something to be grateful for."

Once again I gave her a surprised look, but despite myself I could also feel my smile returning when I thought about my purple dragon back at home. His affection really was the cure for any troubles I had, and there was no low that he couldn't pick me back up from.

"I am," I said finally. "Trust me, I know how lucky I am to have him."

Flora nodded again. "That's why I know that the two of you will be able to get past this. Just because he won't have those memories for himself, doesn't mean they won't mean anything to him. If you ever wanted to reflect on your times together, I'm more than certain that he would love to listen and share those moments with you that way. It could be like a story that he gets to re-experience over and over again."

Once again I paused, struck by this idea. I'd never thought of it that way. Would that work? Would telling him about our memories together be the same as him actually sharing that memory himself? No, I supposed it wouldn't, but maybe...maybe we could make it work. Maybe it would be enough...

I tried to picture it in my mind: Spyro and I resting together in some calm, comfortable setting, Spyro listening with rapt attention and wonder in his eyes while I described some of my favourite moments from our past together. The image came so easily to my mind, it was as if I could already see it happening before me. With it a more confident smile grew on my lips. Yes, we could do this. I just knew Spyro would love to hear about the things we had done together. His enthusiasm for the time we got to spend together was always so contagious. Really, I had no idea how he managed it in his situation, but it was something I could never get enough of.

He already treasured every single moment as it happened. With my help, there was no reason he couldn't treasure the ones that had already passed too.

Nodding to myself with new conviction, I lifted the book in my paws and finally slid it back into its vacant spot on the shelves. With that accomplished, I closed the cover of my satchel and lifted it back over my head.

"Thank you, Flora," I said, standing and turning to face my friend with a large smile. "You're right. I can't believe I let myself get so worked up over this. I actually feel pretty stupid right now..."

"Hey, you're not stupid," Flora said reassuringly, clutching my shoulder again. "I'm sure this is just normal mating-day jitters. I promise that you have nothing to worry about, though. Spyro is going to make you the happiest dragoness in the Realms."

I beamed, my excitement swelling to brand new levels, and I nodded eagerly. "I know it."

Flora grinned back just as brightly. "Well, then what are you still doing here? He's probably waiting for you back at home by now. Get your tail moving!"

I had to laugh at that, almost staggering when she gave my shoulder a shove with her forepaw. I didn't have any desire to argue, though. I hadn't gotten that morning smile that Spyro gave me every day yet, and I was really starting to miss it already. There was nothing I wanted more than to be beside him today. Deciding not to waste any more time, I started padding over to the door.

"I'll see you later, Flora," I said, lifting my wing in farewell.

"See you at the party!" Flora called back. "And like Master Volteer said, tell Spyro happy hatchday for me."

"I will. Thanks again!"

Flora simply waved, and after that she disappeared from sight as I pulled the lounge door shut behind me. My limbs were practically vibrating with energy as I jogged back through the hallways toward the Citadel's main exit. This was really it. This was the day! Mine and Spyro's future started now, and I just knew it was going to be perfect.

I still had one more stop to make on my way home, though. Once I'd exited the Citadel and taken to the air, I turned toward the infirmary. It only took me a minute to reach it, flying as fast as I was, and once there I blew past the receptionist without a single care for their protests. Only a few seconds later I halted at the door to Doctor Trill's and Scarlett's office and knocked with a forepaw. It was Scarlett who answered the door, and a smile lit up her face when she spotted me.

"Well, hello Cynder," she greeted me warmly. "You're probably here for the travel vials of medicine for Spyro we talked about, aren't you?"

I nodded quickly. "That's right."

"Well, I was just about to get them ready for you," Scarlett said, looking back into the office briefly.

"Perfect!" I exclaimed. "Actually, can I ask for another favour? If I leave my bag here with you, can you put the vials in it and bring it to the party for me later?"

"Of course. I'd be happy to."

I gave her a smile. "I really appreciate that. Thank you."

"Please, Cynder, don't mention it," Scarlett told me with the same warm tone. "I'm more than happy to help."

"Well, thanks anyway," I insisted with a wry grin. "Now, I wish I could stay and visit longer but I really should be getting back to Spyro now. Are you going to be staying for the whole party today?"

Scarlett shook her head, her smile turning more apologetic. "I don't think so. Doctor Trill and I have other work to attend to this afternoon, so I'll only be able to spare a couple of minutes to stop in and say hi."

My expression drooped slightly. "Aw, that's too bad. I was hoping we could hang out and talk a bit. We never seem to have time to."

Scarlett's features also turned more regretful. "I know. I would have liked that too."

I grunted, trying to subdue my disappointment. A second later, though, Scarlett adopted another bright smile that interrupted my sombre mood.

"Please, give my best to Spyro though, and wish him a very happy hatchday in case I don't get a chance to later. I'm sure both of you are going to have a great time."

I regarded her carefully for a second, but after that I couldn't keep the grin from returning to my muzzle.

"I'm counting on it," I replied with a small laugh. "I'll definitely tell him. Thank you again."

"Again, don't mention it."

I chuckled, at the same time pulling my satchel from my neck and passing it over to Scarlett with a wing. She caught the strap with her own wing and clutched it close to her side, giving me a reassuring nod that she would honour her promise for later. More than satisfied, I turned to leave with one last wave of my wing. The office door closed behind me, and moments later I was in the air again, soaring back to Spyro and I's apartment.

As I approached, I easily spotted the patch of purple out on the stone balcony and felt my smile stretch wider. Spyro was indeed already awake, lounging on one of the patio cushions and taking in the morning sunlight, his eyes closed in relaxation. He looked up when he heard me approaching, though, and even from this distance I saw the flash of awe that crossed his face at the sight of me coming in to land with my wings flared. My chest swelled with joy and pride, feeling lighter as I floated down to the balcony with natural ease, and all at once I felt the urge to make my landing as graceful and showy as possible. Spyro's slack-jawed expression when I touched down made it more than worth it, and a wide smile split my muzzle.

"Whoa," he said quietly.

I giggled at him as I started padding over. "Good morning to you too, handsome."

He seemed caught in a daze for a couple of seconds longer before he snapped out of it with a shake of his head. Smiling broadly back at me, he rose from his cushion and met me with an open wing. I slid underneath it without hesitation, leaning against his side and pressing my muzzle under his chin. A low, contented hum echoed up from his chest, and I could feel the vibrations through the contact between us. It was one of the most comforting sensations I knew, and a deep sigh leaked through my nostrils.

I pulled back a minute later, pausing to place a kiss on Spyro's cheek before parting. He seemed surprised at first, but his smile remained as bright as ever. I was sorely tempted to press further, but I restrained myself. I didn't want to move too quickly. He did still need time to adjust.

"Happy hatchday, Spyro," I told him instead.

He blinked, his expression turning to one of surprise. "It's my hatchday today?"

"Yes it is," I nodded, giving him a large smile. "Your twenty fifth."

His eyes widened. "Twenty five years? Really?"

I nodded again. Spyro appeared stunned, his gaze drifting to the side as he worked to come to grips with this news.

"Whoa..." he muttered again.

I watched him for a short moment longer before I gently placed the tip of my folded wing against his cheek, drawing his eyes back to me. Once this was accomplished, I flashed him another warm, reassuring smile and leaned in to nuzzle him again. He relaxed almost immediately, letting out a quiet sigh before squeezing tighter with his wing. My smile widened when I felt his spirits rising again.

"I think you're really going to enjoy yourself today," I told him after pulling back to meet his eyes. "We have a lot planned for you. I promise, it's going to be a day unlike any other."

He studied me curiously for a moment, but soon after that an excited gleam came to his eyes.

"I'm looking forward to it."

I gave him another large smile in response, delighted by this answer. He seemed so eager, and so cheerful as he cradled me tightly at his side with his wing. My doubts from earlier all but vanished at this one, simple gesture, feeling his love and affection loud and clear through his hold. I leaned into him again, closing my eyes and surrendering to this moment, a single thought crossing my mind.

I'm looking forward to it too.

I really don't understand it a lot of the time; how my life could change this much since the war.

Who would have ever thought that the leading general of the Dark Master's army would one day end up living a quiet, peaceful life inside Warfang among thousands of the creatures that I once hunted without mercy? I seriously doubt that anyone who saw me back then would ever be able to picture me as a normal, unassuming member of regular society now. I wouldn't have been able to picture it. I just wasn't conditioned to even entertain that as a possibility.

But now? Now I can't imagine anything else. Whenever I think about this complete reversal of fate, I just can't help but smile. It's funny, really, but it feels so right. My work with the Guardians and my life with Spyro give me a purpose more powerful than anything I ever knew when I was just Malefor's puppet.

And now that purpose is growing to include something new...

-~.~-*-~.~-

Somehow, I always forgot how peaceful Warfang actually was in the morning.

I mean, really, how was it possible for a city this large to become so calm and quiet? By mid-morning the streets would be swarming with people from all different races and cultures, rushing this way and that or pausing to talk and socialize. Vendors could be found almost everywhere, and shop owners could often be heard calling out to the passing crowds, welcoming passers-by in to browse their wares or take a table to enjoy a quick meal. The skies would be a tangle of dragons and other winged creatures, weaving between buildings and in amongst themselves to reach far-flung reaches of the city. The bustle and noise were as overwhelming as they were impressive.

But in the early morning hours, where the sun was only just cresting the horizon? It was all but silent. Very few people were to be found at such times, especially outside the main avenues. I never understood how such a striking contrast could exist in this place, but even so it was something I greatly appreciated and enjoyed. Even if I was more of an evening person overall, morning walks were one of my favourite ways to find some quiet time to myself to think and reflect on where my life had come.

This was one such morning. The water gardens were as beautiful as ever, the glass-smooth pond surfaces reflecting the yellow and orange glow of the rising sun. The stepping-stone footpaths were almost completely empty, and the only sound came from a soft breeze that blew through the trees and flowerbeds scattered throughout the park. A smile was glued to my muzzle as I strolled lazily around the park, my demeanour bright. This seemed like a perfect start to the day so far.

Not long after having that thought, however, I paused when I felt a minor but sudden wave of nausea come over me. I drew to a stop, a frown of discomfort crossing my muzzle, but it only lasted a few seconds before passing and I straightened back up. Glancing along the path I'd been following, I didn't see any other people coming but just in case I still located a sheltered patch of grass on the edge of one of the pools that would be out of the way of anyone passing by. I padded over to it slowly, lowering myself to my haunches for a short rest.

I spent a moment admiring the tranquil pond waters and the overall stillness of the area surrounding me. I just never could get over how peaceful these gardens were in the morning! I always considered myself more of a night dragoness than a morning one, but these sunrise outings into the gardens were still one of my favourite things to do in the city.

Just then another bout of nausea swept over me and caused a grimace to cross my face. I turned my eyes down toward my stomach with a hint of irritation, but that feeling didn't last long. Gingerly I rested one of my forepaws over the noticeable bulge in my abdomen, and for a long moment after that I was motionless while my mind was consumed with many different thoughts. There was the usual swell of wonder and excitement in the mix, but also an incredible amount of nerves. Most of the time I didn't even know what I was supposed to think in regards to the circumstances I found myself in now. The life I had in Warfang was surreal enough on most days, but being gravid on top of that?

I wasn't even two months into my term yet, so the things I was feeling were still very new to me. Most of the time it still seemed more like an odd dream than reality. The thought of a new life forming inside of me at that very moment...there was just no way to wrap my head around that! It was so strange, but I couldn't deny that it was also very exciting. All of those fanciful thoughts and distant dreams of a family that I had dismissed over the years as unrealistic and silly were actually coming true now!

Of course, I was also nervous. Really nervous. Sometimes it grew so intense that I would nearly go into a panic attack, and it was only Spyro's reassuring presence that kept me sane. Part of it was undoubtedly hormones, but a large part of it was also genuine. Before now I'd never learned a single thing about egg-bearing and motherhood! There were just so many unknowns!

Would the egg be laid safely? Would my child be healthy? What kind of development complications might there be, what with Spyro's condition and my background of magical corruption? And even if they ended up being perfectly fine physically, what about the pressures that would be put on them, being mine and Spyro's child? What kind of fame? What kind of abuse?

Would I make a good parent?

I felt my breath beginning to quicken, and with a jolt I realized that I was working myself up way too much. I immediately clenched my eyes shut and tried to force my mind to go blank. It was a struggle and a half, but by focusing on just taking long, slow, deep breaths I eventually felt my heart rate slowing to a normal level. Stay calm, Cynder. Stay calm...

It really was a frightening amount to think about, but...even if I did freak out about it from time to time, I reminded myself that I did actually feel ready for this. I had been talking extensively with all of my female friends and seeking advice from anybody I could on how a hatchling should be properly raised. Everyone I spoke to had been extremely helpful, and now even with my inexperience in matters like this I felt like I had the knowledge I needed. Though, I had to admit that some of the things I was told did sound strange and foreign to me just because of how...well, different they were to my own experiences.

No elemental training until they showed their element manifesting on their own, rather than pushing it to appear as early as possible? No kind of self defence or combat training at all until they were into their teens as opposed to just a couple of years old? Not even something as basic as hunting until they were able to fly and use their powers reliably? How would they be able to fend for themselves? Instead of self-sufficiency from the moment they hatched, the focus was heavily placed on socializing them with other hatchlings as often as possible, and on careful caring and nurturing from me and Spyro. It was the complete opposite of what I had been ingrained with.

Not that I was saying that was a bad thing. If it was the opposite of what I went through then that alone was enough to make me believe whole-heartedly that it was definitely good. But, it did make my job harder. It meant I still had a lot to learn too...

I felt confident that I could do it, though. Spyro and I had spoken about parenthood many, many times in the past, starting well before we even began trying for an egg at all. For him it may have been the first conversation every time, but for me they helped build my confidence bit by bit, Spyro's support always constant and unwavering.

That thought prompted another, more at ease smile to grow. I spent a moment after that in silence, looking down at the paw resting over my stomach and imagining what my future child might look like. Eventually, though, a more immediate question rose to the forefront of my mind.

How would I surprise Spyro with the news today?

My grin turned somewhat devious. I had quickly realized the potential that my situation presented to me as soon as my gravidness became apparent to the eye, and now it had become a game of sorts for me. Every day I would try to come up with some unexpected new way of springing it on him just to see what kind of reaction I got. They never disappointed. Whether it was confusion, shock, or even just the simple, indescribable joy that would light up his whole face, I absolutely loved watching it. Sometimes I just wouldn't even tell him at all and would wait to see how long it took him to piece it together; usually it came as a progression through each of the emotions I had just listed.

I chuckled to myself as I thought back on yesterday's choice. It was one of my most elaborate schemes so far, and rather silly in reality, but worth it. Sneaking downstairs before Spyro woke up—since I was almost always awake before him now due to morning illness or just feeling stiff—I had spread out as many dishes as I could across the kitchen table and broken up little crumbs and scraps of food on top of them. Then, when I heard him coming down the stairs, I lay myself out on top of the carnage and tried to act as lethargic and stuffed as possible, keeping my stomach in plain view. I had nearly ruined my own plan and burst out laughing when Spyro's eyes bugged out at the sight of me. I could still hear his shocked exclamation.

"Wha...Cynder? You...This...What...What did you do?!"

Instead of laughing, my answer had been a dramatic groan and I said, "Urgh...I think...I think I ate too much..."

He'd spent the rest of the morning fussing over me, carrying me over to the nearest couch to lie down, arranging pillows, demanding if I was alright and asking if I needed a doctor or the Guardians. He was even going to search for a bucket in case I felt sick, but my insistence that I didn't need one was barely enough to stop him. After that he just hovered around me, asking over and over again if I needed anything or if there was something he could do to help. His concern was so sweet and cute, it almost made me feel bad about pulling such a prank on him in the first place. As it was, it wasn't until a while later when he saw that there was no change in my condition and realized that my bulge didn't feel like a bloated stomach should when he touched it that I had to reveal the truth to him. His reaction had been priceless, just staring at me for the longest time like I had grown a second head before launching into the fastest barrage of questions I'd ever heard from him.

I didn't feel like doing anything that complex again today, however. I had to pace myself or else I would run out of things to do! No, I needed something different. Something more subtle...Make him figure it out for himself again? Maybe do absolutely nothing at all, just carry on as normal and wait to see what his reaction was when he saw me. No, no, that wouldn't do. I would need to be sneakier...

Only a moment later, inspiration struck. With another devious grin I rose to my paws and turned toward the house. Stretching my wings out wide, I took to the air with a grunt from the extra effort required. Taking off was getting harder and harder each day, and I was beginning to wonder if I would be able to fly at all once I was farther into my term. If I was carrying more than just the one egg I would have been grounded for certain, but maybe with just one I would still be able to manage it. With my wind powers I almost definitely would, but then again tiring myself out in the air like that probably wasn't the best idea.

I shook my head, pushing that thought aside for now. Only a moment later I was descending into the yard behind our home. I stepped through the dining room door and made my way to the living room in the front, searching for a position that would be easy to spot from the stairway. My eyes settled on one of the couches, tailored for dragons with a small raised back and an extra wide cushion for sitting or reclining on, capable of holding two dragons lying down if they squeezed a bit.

It suited my needs perfectly. Smiling to myself, I climbed onto the seat and stretched out on my side, leaving a bit of space between myself and the couch back. Once I was settled I lay my wing across my side like a blanket, hiding most of my body from view, and after making myself comfortable I closed my eyes to try and make it look like I was asleep. If I was right, it wouldn't be much longer before Spyro woke up and made his way downstairs.

I'd only meant to act like I was sleeping, but it seemed as though my body didn't mind the chance for a nap. I didn't even realize that I had dozed off until I was lightly startled awake by the sound of paws on the stairs. Realization quickly dawned on me, though: Spyro was up, and he was coming this way. Almost immediately the footsteps paused, and I held my breath anxiously.

Come on, Spyro. Take the bait...

I hid a triumphant smile when, just like the wonderfully sappy lug that he was, he did. I heard him carefully pad over to me, and shortly after that I was aware of another body behind me as Spyro slipped into the space I had left on the couch. I let out a quiet hum in my throat, acting as if I was just waking up now.

"Good morning," I mumbled.

"Good morning," he replied, brushing his muzzle against my jaw a moment later. "So...what are you doing down here?"

"I woke up feeling restless," I answered truthfully, my eyes still closed. "I didn't want to wake you, so I went out for a short walk and then came back in here."

"Oh," he grunted in understanding. "Well, I'm not disturbing you, am I?"

I hummed again and snuggled closer to him. "Not at all."

He said nothing more, and in the silence that followed I imagined him looking me over like he did every morning. I smiled, but made no response otherwise. He clearly hadn't noticed my egg weight yet, and I was eager to see just how long he would remain oblivious.

There was another rustle as Spyro settled onto his side at my back, his foreleg wrapping around beneath my wing to my chest after only a brief second of hesitation. I thought for sure the game was up then, and I barely restrained an incredulous laugh when he still didn't notice! Honestly, Spyro, you could be so dense sometimes!

I couldn't say that I minded, though. This wasn't my plan, but I was greatly enjoying the company and attention either way. I almost let myself doze off again, feeling warm and safe in Spyro's gentle hold. If there was one thing he was good at besides saving the world, it was affection.

Eventually, though, I did want to see his reaction. Deciding to try and help him along, I shifted my placement slightly and rubbed my brow against his chin. He responded just as I'd hoped, squeezing tighter with his foreleg and stroking my chest scales gently with his paw in a slow, back and forth motion. After a couple of repetitions his grip shifted lower toward my middle, and that was when he suddenly paused.

I grinned victoriously. There we go.

There was silence once again, but this time it stretched on for far longer. Finally, obviously trying to keep his actions as discreet as possible, Spyro's paw edged downward to test my swollen belly. I acted like I didn't notice at first, struggling as hard as I could to keep from laughing, and I could only imagine the look of sheer confusion on his face when he realized that I was noticeably larger than he probably expected.

I chose that moment to let on that I'd felt him poking around, giving another long hum.

"Something wrong?"

He didn't answer. Cracking my eye open, I looked up to see him staring down at my wing which still covered my stomach from sight. His expression showed a look of such total confusion, and a large grin spread across my face.

"What?" I chuckled.

He flinched like he'd just been snapped out of a daze, meeting my eyes for a second before his gaze returned to his hidden forepaw.

"Uhh..."

I giggled again, trying to imagine the dialogue going on inside his head at that moment. 'Is this Cynder's normal figure now? But I remember her being so lean. Should I ask about it? How? What if it sounds like an insult? She'll get mad!"

His cheeks were starting to flush from embarrassment at this dilemma. I chuckled again, which only seemed to make it worse for him.

"Spyro, what?" I prodded. "You're acting strange."

"Uh, I'm sorry," he blurted quickly. "I was...I...just...umm..."

"Just...what?"

He stammered helplessly, and I couldn't keep from smirking at him. It always amused me to no end how utterly hopeless he was in awkward situations. Spyro, the legendary purple dragon, rendered practically mute by a round belly. It was unbelievable!

"Are...are you uh...feeling alright?" he forced out, his face still hot.

I cocked my head at him, playing along as best I could. "Feeling alright? Of course I am. Why wouldn't I be?"

"U-umm..."he fumbled, trying to meet my eyes only for his gaze to get pulled back down to my middle. "I mean...uhh—"

"Spyro, are you sure you're feeling alright?" I asked, cutting him off. "You seem really nervous about something. You know that whatever it is, you can tell me, right?"

He froze, looking like prey trapped before a hunter, and I could just imagine him yelling in his head, 'Yeah, right!' I couldn't stop myself from snorting with more laughter. Honestly, I should probably have felt bad for tormenting him like this, but it was just so fun! He was so adorably flustered!

At that moment he let out a strained groan, turning away and hiding his face with a paw. As much as I would have liked to keep this going longer, I took that as my cue to finally start taking some pity on him. I didn't want him getting too stressed out, so I started rolling over onto my paws, moving to get up.

"Well, whatever's got you so tripped up, maybe some breakfast will help. Come on. Let's see if we can find something."

He sighed before slowly nodding his head. Grinning back and shaking my head with a chuckle, I pushed myself up and began walking toward the kitchen. Spyro moved to follow me, but before he could rise he suddenly froze. When I glanced back at him my grin widened massively. His eyes were huge, fixed on my now plainly visible stomach.

"What?" I asked him again with another laugh. "What's gotten into you? Honestly, you act like you've never seen a gravid dragoness before!"

He didn't respond at first, but a second later he did a double take and his head rocked back, his eyes going wider than ever before.

"Gra...W-wh...You...?!"

I smirked victoriously and turned away once more, resuming my path toward the kitchen. Spyro continued fumbling for words for another second, but then after I'd only made it a couple of steps farther away I heard a weak groan behind me, followed by a resounding THUD that made me jump. I quickly turned around again.

"Spyro? Are you..."

I trailed off, my voice failing me. This...was not what I was expecting. Laid out in front of me was Spyro, sprawled out limply on the floor like a giant purple lump. His eyes were shut, and he wasn't moving a single muscle. For several long seconds after that, all I could do was stare.

Did...Did he really just faint?

I could do nothing more than stand there staring down at my mate in disbelief. I had expected a reaction, certainly, and it was true that my goal had been to work him up and surprise him, but this? I hadn't ever seen this coming! Spyro had never fainted before! This was so unusual!

Finally, I snapped out of my own stupor and hurried over to his side again. As gently as I could, I slipped a forepaw under his chin and cradled his head anxiously, checking to see if he had hurt himself when he hit the ground. I really hoped he hadn't, because that would just feel awful! A twinge of guilt began working through my chest at that moment.

...Maybe I should dial the morning jokes back just a little bit.

I will never take this for granted, ever.

I can't even express how fortunate I feel. I have an incredible job—incredibly demanding at times, but still—a great home, and an absolutely unbelievable family. I don't know how I even deserve any of this, but I am so grateful for it. Spyro really has given me so much, I can't even explain how much it means to me. Days like the one I just had today...there are no words for it.

I wish so badly there was more that I could do for him. He's made me so happy ever since he saved me from Malefor, but I feel like I can't even repay half of it before the day runs out.

I just wish I could make him as happy as he's made me. That's the only thing I want...

-~.~-*-~.~-

"Mommy! Daddy! Come on! The park's right there! I wanna go!"

I laughed and shook my head as I watched Ruby bounding back and forth across the footpath that we were currently following. She was practically bursting with excess energy and excitement, so much so that I could almost feel it radiating off of her with every hop and jump she made.

"We're coming," I assured her. "Don't worry, we're almost there."

"I know," she answered, looking half amused and half impatient. "That's why I want to hurry!"

"Just have a little patience," Spyro told her in a gentle tone.

Ruby pouted up at him, but he merely returned her look with an unwavering smile. After a second she submitted and she resumed bouncing ahead of us, forced to jog to keep pace with mine and Spyro's larger steps. As we walked I gave Spyro a sidelong grin.

"I never understand how you can do that."

He turned a puzzled look toward me. "Do what?"

"Make people listen to you so well. All you have to do is talk, and people will do what you ask. If you tell Ruby to do something, she does it. If I tell her to do something, half the time there's a back and forth that has to happen first. You just make it seem so natural, and I can't figure it out."

He cocked his head at me. "Really?"

I nodded.

"Huh," he grunted, looking away. "Well...maybe I picked it up from my parents. It's kind of the same thing with them. They're so nice and caring, but they're also firm. If they tell you to do something, they expect it to be done. If you don't, they don't get angry or anything, but you can just tell how disappointed they are. That's the worst feeling."

I internally winced ever so slightly, just as I always did when I heard Spyro talk about his dragonfly family in the present tense, but I made no indication of it to him. It was to be expected, after all. Instead, I studied him in silence for a moment as I took this explanation in. Finally, I told him, "You know, I think that's the first time you ever told me that."

Once again, he turned to look at me in surprise. "It is?"

I nodded again. "I never knew that about them, but that does explain a fair bit."

Spyro looked forward again, his eyes once more turning thoughtful.

"I don't like making Daddy sad," Ruby spoke up, and I looked down to see that she was walking just in front of our forepaws, head tilted back to listen to our conversation. "If I don't do what he asks, he looks at me with sad eyes and that makes me feel really bad."

I felt my chest warm a touch at those words, especially when I saw the surprised but grateful smile that Spyro gave her and the way she beamed back at him, but at the same time a grin formed on my muzzle.

"So, disobeying your father makes you sad, but disobeying me doesn't, huh?" I asked teasingly.

Ruby gasped, spinning around with a look that I would almost call panic on her little face. I let out a surprised grunt when she suddenly jumped toward my foreleg, grabbing it in a tight hug.

"No! I don't like making you unhappy either, Mommy!"

I couldn't help but chuckle, glancing up at Spyro briefly and trading a smirk with him before I returned Ruby's hug with my other forepaw.

"I know, gem. You're a very good little dragoness."

Ruby tilted her head up at me and smiled in relief. Smiling back, I leaned my head down and nuzzled her brow before letting go with my forepaw. She also released her hug at the same time.

"Now, you need to listen to what your mother tells you, Ruby," Spyro said in the same warm but firm tone that he had used before. "She works very hard for us, and it's not fair to make her repeat herself."

Ruby nodded immediately. "I do listen. But Mommy jokes around a lot, so sometimes I joke back."

I could only snort and shake my head in response. Ruby grinned cheekily back up at me before she turned her attention forward again and move a few paces farther ahead. A minute later we had reached the park entrance, the cobblestone walkway turning smooth stepping stones and grass. Just like that, Ruby took off running with a happy squeal, bounding ahead in wild zigzags and weaving around other park-goers. I was forced to laugh again at her sheer abundance of energy.

"Uh..." Spyro spoke up uncertainly beside me, and I saw him watching Ruby running farther away from us with an anxious expression. "Is she okay running off like that?"

"She's fine," I answered, resting my forepaw over his. "She knows to stay nearby, and I'm watching her."

Spyro didn't answer for a moment, his eyes locked on our daughter as she dashed even farther into the park, but he didn't argue with me. I bumped his shoulder and gave him a smile to try and lighten his mood, and once he'd given me a small smile in return I led him over to a nearby open patch of grass to rest. It was a sunny spot on top of a small slope that gave us a commanding view of this section of the park, and from here it was easy to track Ruby's movements through the field below. A tree nearby offered shade if we needed it, but for the time being we were both happy to bask in the sunlight. I could feel its warmth bathing my dark scales already and I sighed contentedly as my muscles began relaxing.

"So, how are you doing?" I asked Spyro after a short pause while we watched Ruby playing below us. She'd found another hatchling near her age, and after asking the nearby dragoness—probably the mother—if it was alright they'd taken off together in what looked like a race. "Tired?"

Spyro gave me a contemplative look for a second before he shifted and lowered his satchel to the ground beside him, which contained our assorted spoils from the market. He stretched out the wing that had been holding it before settling into a more relaxed position like mine.

"A little," he nodded finally. A small grin formed at the corner of his muzzle. "Is it always this much work keeping up with Ruby?"

I chuckled. "Usually."

"Ancestors. I'm amazed I'm not physically crippled by this point then."

He gave me another sidelong smirk, and I laughed and bumped his shoulder with my folded wing. I wasn't expecting him to push me back, so when he did with his eyes gleaming mischievously I let out a yelp of surprise. I adopted a more sinister grin immediately, though, and I elbowed him sharply in the ribs—being careful not to pierce his scales with the ivory barb there—which caused him to give a winded grunt and double over, and while he was dazed I laid my wing blade under his chin, causing him to immediately freeze. He turned his eyes nervously toward me, and I just continued grinning darkly at him. He eventually gulped, giving me a goofy grin of his own.

"I surrender?"

I hummed approvingly, lowering my wing and letting a gentler smile form on my face. "Good dragon. Now, move your wing. It's in the way."

He looked at me in confusion for a second before it clicked and he lifted his wing higher against his back. I happily shifted closer after that, leaning against his side. His wing lowered onto my back, and I saw a contented smile stretch across his face while his eyes turned back toward Ruby. I followed his gaze, and we spent a moment watching her in silence together.

"I still can't believe it," he said quietly at length. "I have a daughter all of my own..."

I felt a warm smile grow on my lips, and I leaned over to nuzzle him against his jaw.

"Yes, you do. A wonderful daughter that you should be very proud of. The expectations put on her are huge, but she rises to the challenge happily because she's so proud to have you as her father, and making you proud is what she wants more than anything. She takes after you a lot."

Spyro was quiet for a short while after that, watching Ruby with a new look of both surprise and admiration. His smile spread wider, and I almost thought he was going to tear up. I honestly might have too in his position.

"I really am lucky, aren't I?" he asked a moment later with a sigh.

I pulled my head back to study him, surprised by this question and unsure how to respond at first. Lucky? For Ruby, definitely. For me? I was honoured by that thought, especially since most of the time I thought it was the other way around. But for everything else? How could he even use a word like 'lucky' given what he had to face every day?

I pushed that thought aside almost immediately. If he truly felt that way then it was a blessing that I would be stupid to question.

"We both are," I said, leaning back against him.

We were silent again after that, watching Ruby playing with her new friend with seemingly endless energy until he was eventually called away by his mother. Ruby seemed disappointed, but she waved goodbye enthusiastically anyway. Once the other hatchling and his mother had gone she scanned the park for another source of entertainment. Her gaze soon locked on to a bird that was searching for food in the grass nearby, and a delighted gleam sparked in her eyes. She immediately bounded toward it, jumping for it with a playful cry only for it to quickly leap away into the air. She gave chase with a laugh, hopping after it and flapping her little wings wildly, but they were unable to catch the air. After only a second of watching her, an idea popped into my mind.

"I'm going to join her for a bit," I said to Spyro, pushing myself back up to my paws. "Are you happy here, or do you want to come?"

Spyro paused for a moment in thought. "You go ahead. I'll save our spot here."

I smiled at him and nuzzled his cheek quickly. "Okay. Be back soon."

He smiled back and nodded. Turning down the hill, I quickly padded across the grass to catch up to Ruby, who was still running after the bird as it circled overhead but was no longer jumping for it since it was well out of her reach. She saw me approaching soon enough, though, and she broke off from her chase with a bright smile and hopped over toward me.

"Having a good time?" I asked, leaning my head down toward her and grinning.

"Yeah!" she answered, her tail swaying excitedly in the grass behind her. "I'm just playing with the birds, but I just can't reach them."

"Well, maybe I can help with that. How about another flying lesson?"

Ruby's eyes went wide and she gasped before a look of pure excitement crossed her expression.

"Yes please!" she cheered, hopping up and down. "I wanna fly! Please, Mommy, show me! Show me!"

"Okay, okay!" I laughed. "Settle down for a moment and we'll get started."

Ruby immediately stopped bouncing and plopped down into a sitting position in front of me, though I could still see her practically vibrating with eagerness. I laughed again and shook my head at her. How could someone so tiny be filled with so much energy?

"Now, do you remember what I told you last time?"

"To focus on steady flapping!" Ruby answered immediately. "Always flap both wings together. Don't correct with just one."

"Very good. Okay, now what I want you to do is get into your takeoff position. When I say, start lifting off the ground and let's see how well you can hold yourself stable."

Ruby nodded quickly and rose to all fours, spreading her wings out and scrunching her face up in concentration. Her wings spread out at her sides and she crouched down low, ready to push herself up off the ground. Her eyes then lifted up to mine, watching for my signal.

"Looks good," I told her. "Now take this slow and steady, alright? Go."

As soon as the word was past my mouth, Ruby pumped her wings down more or less in unison. Her body rose slightly from the movement, but it wasn't enough to lift her off of the ground. She kept flapping, picking up speed, and as she did I silently began drawing on my wind element. I wanted to see her do as much as she possibly could herself, but if she needed it I was ready to offer a helping paw.

A few flaps later, Ruby seemed to have settled into a fairly steady rhythm. Her face was scrunched up tight, eyes clamped shut and her cheeks puffed out from the breath she was holding. I chuckled quietly at this sight.

"Breathe, Ruby," I scolded her gently. "You won't get far without air."

Her wings faltered and her eyes popped open for a second. "Oops."

I laughed again, and at the same time Ruby's eyes shut once more with the look of focus returning to her features. She let out a grunt, her wings pumping down harder, and her claws briefly left the dirt but she couldn't quite stay airborne. She gave two more hops, grunting louder each time, and I watched with bated breath to see if she'd gain liftoff, but after the third hop I realized her flaps didn't quite have the power she needed.

A faint breeze rustled the grass around Ruby's paws, swirling in a miniature vortex that began to push up against her wings. With her next flap her paws remained suspended above the ground, and after the next she began to slowly creep higher.

Ruby's eyes snapped open again, going wide when she saw herself rising up in the air. A delighted grin split her muzzle.

"I'm doing it, Mommy!" she cried. "I—WHOA!"

In her excitement she missed a flap with her left wing and tipped sharply, but I had already steered the wind to catch her, the gust pulling her wing back open and levelling her out above the grass.

"Keep flapping!" I urged her. "I've got you, gem. Don't worry, you're doing great!"

Though still looking a bit shaken from her near fall, Ruby nonetheless frowned in concentration again and resumed beating her wings steadily in time with each other. I used my wind to help keep her steady, and soon enough she was hovering at me eye level in front of me. With every inch she climbed my heart beat faster with excitement. She was airborne! My little gem was flying!

"Mommy, look!" she squealed, sounding even more excited than I felt. "I'm doing it!"

"Alright!" I cheered. "That's it, Ruby! Keep going!"

She giggled ecstatically, her little wings pumping faster than ever. I began to lessen the amount of lift I was giving her with my wind, letting her hover under her own power, and I couldn't keep from beaming with pride the whole time.

"Stabilize," I coached her as I slowly cut off the last of my wind power, only using small gusts every now and then to catch her if she began to tip too much. "Balance with your tail. There you go. That's it! You're a natural at this!"

"This is so cool! I want to go faster now! Show me, Mommy!"

I laughed. "Faster, huh? Okay then. To speed up, just start leaning forward and then lean your body to the side to steer just like gliding. Got it?"

Ruby didn't answer at first, the look of hard concentration returning. She wobbled a bit at first, but after that she began to ease forward through the air, her eyes widening in surprise in delight. Soon she was picking up speed.

"Whoa!" she exclaimed.

"Okay, now turn!" I called after her. "Lean! Let's see what you've got!"

Ruby laughed gleefully and started banking left. She was a little shaky about it, but gradually her course began to swing back around toward me.

"That's it!"

Emboldened by her success so far, Ruby banked harder and veered sharply around toward me. Almost immediately she yelped in surprise, though, her wings wobbling, and before I could say anything she abruptly flipped upside down and went into a wild tumble as her wings completely gave out. I yelped in shock and immediately sent out a vortex of wind, catching her in it when she was just a foot above the ground. The wind slowed her drastically, but wasn't quite enough to stop her completely and she bounced against the ground with a loud grunt. She rolled to a stop a few feet farther in the grass.

"Whoops!" I exclaimed, jogging over. "Bit of a rough landing there. You okay?"

A relieved smile spread on my muzzle when Ruby began giggling, lying on her back on the ground with her eyes closed and grinning widely. She looked completely unharmed.

"Wheee! I'm dizzy..."

"I'm not surprised," I snorted. "That was a pretty good tumble, wasn't it? Anything hurt?"

She shook her head. "No, I'm okay. Can I try again?"

"Of course! Just try to use your tail more to balance your weight during a turn like that and you'll do great! Here, let me give you a boost."

I reached down toward her with my forepaws, and Ruby quickly stood up and shook the grass off her scales. After that she stepped up to me and allowed me to pick her up. I turned her to face away from me and reared up onto my hindquarters with Ruby held close to my chest.

"Okay, ready? Flap!"

Ruby let out another excited squeal when I suddenly heaved her up into the air and let go, sending her into a high arc. Her wings snapped out immediately, and after a second she had settled into relatively stable forward flight again.

"Alright, turn back to me," I instructed. "Balance, and turn! You've got this!"

I watched with a large smile growing on my face as, just like that, she did. She was definitely still shaky, her tail swinging erratically to keep herself from spinning out of control again, but in almost no time at all she had pulled completely around and was swooping back toward me with a gleeful cheer. She passed by me close enough that I could feel the breeze on my face, and with each turn and flap after that she gained more and more confidence. Soon she was zooming around like a little red streak, laughing and whooping with sheer delight.

"I'm doing it! I'm flying! I'm really flying!"

"You sure are!" I called after her. "You're doing great! Keep going!"

Her laughter rang out like music. "This is so fun! Daddy! Daddy, look at me! I'm flying!"

I paused for a second to look up to where Spyro was resting, and for a moment I was struck by the sight. He was smiling wider than I had seen in quite a while, laughing as he watched his daughter conquering the sky. The look of sheer pride on his face was more than I could ever put into words. He had only just found out that he had a daughter this morning, but already he looked like the proudest parent in the Dragon Realms.

My attention was brought back to Ruby when she made another giggling pass by me, and immediately I adopted a playful grin as a new idea popped into my mind. After her next pass I suddenly gave chase, leaping forward and running along the ground after her. When she saw me she squealed with glee and a mad chase ensued, Ruby twisting and turning somewhat clumsily to avoid me while I reared up in mock attempts to grab her every time she strayed within my reach. The game lasted for a couple of minutes longer before Ruby came in a little too close, and before she could escape I snared her with my wing. She laughed and thrashed about with her little paws, struggling to break free, but within seconds I had her clutched tight to my chest and brought my pointed snout down to tickle her belly and chest.

"I got you this time!" I teased her over her squeals of laughter. "You're a speedy little one, but I'm quicker!"

She laughed again when I ruffled her wings with a gust of my wind breath, a sound which quickly turned to gasping when I resumed tickling her.

"Okay! Oka-hay, Mommy! I gi-hi-hive up!"

I grinned triumphantly. Victory again! After giving one last nuzzle I pulled my head back, giving Ruby a brief chance to catch her breath before squeezing tighter with my wings in a hug. Ruby quickly returned it with her forepaws, still giggling.

"So, did you like that?" I asked.

"Yeah!" she exclaimed without hesitation. "Can we do it again soon? Please? I want to fly as good as you can!"

I beamed with a small swell of pride at that, and I nodded my head firmly. "Absolutely. You're going to be flying circles around everyone in Warfang in no time."

Ruby looked incredibly excited by that thought, and I couldn't keep the smile off my own face. I pulled her tight against my chest again, taking a moment just to bask in my pride at how quickly she'd picked up on flying. She would still need plenty of practice to really master it, but this had been such a good start. She was well on her way.

I found my eyes drawn up toward Spyro again, and my smile became wider and warmer when I saw the pure joy that was shining in his eyes as he watched the two of us. Our eyes met, and the smile that he gave back to me practically melted my heart. I could easily tell that he was just as proud of our daughter as I was in that moment.

"Hey," I told Ruby softly, relaxing my hold on her. "Why don't you go play with Daddy for a bit? I think he'd really like that."

She nodded eagerly, and as soon as I let go with my wings she took off running up the hill toward him. I followed at a much more measured pace, grinning as Spyro's eyes widened when he saw the little red dragoness charging toward him with mischief in her gaze. He had no chance to defend himself before Ruby let out a playful roar and lunged at him, latching on to his foreleg.

"Gotcha!" she cried.

"Ah!" Spyro exclaimed, and I covered my mouth with a wing to hide my laughter. "Oh no! A monster's got me!"

Ruby giggled, hanging on tight as Spyro shook his leg in a mock attempt to dislodge her. When she didn't let go he rose to a standing position. Only then did Ruby slacken her grip, sliding down to the ground and tugging on Spyro's foreleg insistently.

"Come and play with me," she said. "Please?"

"You want me to play now? Aren't you tired from all that flying?"

"Nope!"

He chuckled, and his eyes shifted up toward me as if asking for permission. I nodded encouragingly, and with a grin spreading across his muzzle he lowered his head down to Ruby's level.

"What do you want to play?"

"Hide and seek!" she answered without hesitation, bouncing up and down on the spot. "I'll hide first!"

"Ooh, I played that with Sparx all the time. Okay, you ready?"

"Yeah!"

Spyro smiled brighter and turned to look at me again. "Are you playing, Cynder?"

I laughed but quickly shook my head. "No, I'm happy to watch for now. You two goofballs go on ahead."

Spyro shrugged. "Well, if you insist." He lifted a wing to cover his eyes. "One. Two. Three..."

Ruby let out a squeal and took off sprinting down the hill. I chuckled softly at her before turning my attention to Spyro. He still had his wing over his eyes, counting away, but then I noticed his wing start to creep upward. I quickly swung my tail up to whack him on the back of his head.

"Ow!" he yelped.

"No peeking, cheater," I smirked.

His only response was a sheepish grin before he resumed counting. Shaking my head and laughing again, I moved over to the spot Spyro had been resting in before and lowered myself down onto my belly. A moment later Spyro finished his count and began his search.

I let my mind begin to wander as I watched Spyro and Ruby playing together, my thoughts running back over the events of the day so far. I was so glad for the days that I had off work to spend with my family like this. It was something I had made sure to make clear to the Guardians when I started working for them: I needed to have regular days free of my responsibilities to devote entirely to Spyro, and now to Ruby as well. They had been very understanding, and at times like this I was very glad for that. I didn't know what I would do without these chances to savour the family I had.

My chest swelled with warmth as I watched my mate and daughter playing, laughter ringing out each time one of them caught the other in their game—Ruby finding Spyro considerably easier than he found her thanks to his much larger size, I noticed. It never ceased to amaze me just how wonderful Spyro and Ruby were to each other. For her age Ruby was so incredibly mature about her father's amnesia, learning to accept the fact that her father forgot about her every night and never letting that colour how much she adored him. And Spyro...his own daughter was a stranger to him every morning when he woke up, but within mere moments that all changed every day, and he treated her with such care and love it was almost unbelievable.

Really, it felt like a dream, like it was simply too good to be true. Instead of questioning it, though, I just savoured every moment I got to watch this amazing scene. My work with the Guardians was definitely rewarding for the good that I got to see being done in the world, but this was what made me feel truly accomplished.

I was so proud of both of them.

Eventually their game wound down, Spyro making his way back up the hill toward me at a jog with a tired Ruby right on his heels, panting and laughing all at the same time. Spyro was clearly worn out as well, his breath coming in gasps as he flopped down beside me, Ruby finally catching up and jumping onto his tail.

"Okay," he groaned. "I give up. You win."

Ruby giggled, though it came out more like a wheeze. A moment after Spyro had settled she let go of his tail and circled around in front of him. Spyro let out a small sound of surprise when she ducked underneath his foreleg and crawled around into the small gap between him and I. Once there she lay down on her stomach with a tired sigh, her head and eyelids beginning to droop.

"That was fun, Daddy," she said, giving a wide smile. "Can we do that again soon?"

"Of course, kiddo," Spyro answered without hesitation. He brought his head down to nuzzle her brow tenderly, his own smile broadening. "Whenever you'd like."

Ruby was obviously happy with his answer. Another deep sigh escaped her before she let out a quiet yawn and lowered her head onto her forepaws.

"I'm tired," she mumbled sluggishly. "I think I'm...gonna..."

And just like that, she was out. I watched her flanks rise and fall slowly for a few seconds with a warm fondness filling my heart. She really was such a sweet, adorable little dragoness, and I was so honoured to call her mine.

My gaze shifted up to Spyro, and that feeling in my chest doubled in strength. He was watching our daughter with a look of mixed awe and affection, and I found myself thinking that honoured didn't even begin to describe my situation. I had the best family any dragoness could ask for, without a doubt.

I brought my head forward and Spyro jerked in surprise when my muzzle met his cheek. The kiss was brief, but I put all of my emotion into it and when I pulled away I saw Spyro looking back at me with a questioning sort of grin on his face.

"What was that for?"

I chuckled, but didn't answer him for a moment. Eventually I looked down at Ruby again.

"You know, I'm so proud of us," I told him softly. "We've accomplished a lot of great things together, but this is definitely the best one. Just look at this little treasure we made..."

He did, his eyes glossing over with thought for several long seconds as he watched Ruby sleep. She shifted, rolling slightly to her side so that her back was pressed up against Spyro's leg, and a smile crossed her little face. Spyro's own face split into a huge smile as well, and I thought I could see a trace of moisture in his eyes.

"She really is amazing..." he murmured.

My wing moved to rest against his back, and I leaned forward to nuzzle his cheek again. This time he met me halfway, turning to run his muzzle against mine until we came to rest with our brows pressed together.

"Just like you," I said.

He chuckled quietly. "I was going to say the same to you."

I snorted. "We're so corny."

"So?"

I had no retort, and the two of us simply laughed together for a while until we eventually settled into silence again. Neither of us moved for a long time after that, and I just closed my eyes and immersed myself in this moment: Me, my mate, and our daughter nestled between us, all in total comfort and safety. It was absolute perfection, and I wished that this could last forever.

"I love you so much, Spyro," I finally said, my voice soft. "I just want to make sure you know that."

I heard him let out a deep, contented hum, and he gently rubbed his muzzle against mine again.

"I love you too, Cynder," he replied. "And thank you. This day has been amazing so far, and it's all because of you two."

The feeling of pride bloomed inside me again, making me feel like I was glowing from Spyro's praise. That was all I wanted; to make each brief moment he had to remember as joyful as I possibly could. His words reassured me that I was doing a good job, and that meant more than anything I could describe.

"You're welcome," was all I could say in reply.

We stayed that way for another hour, savouring the simple enjoyment of being together. Both of us knew how precious this family was, and it seemed like we were both determined to soak up as much of its presence as we possibly could. I could have easily taken it for granted given the years of memories I already had of us together, but Spyro made that impossible. For what must have been the thousandth time, I thanked the Ancestors for this small little gift that the curse he lived with provided.

Eventually, afternoon waned into evening and it was time for us to head home. We ate, played, and talked together just as we had already done throughout the day, and the smile that was almost permanently stuck to Spyro's face filled me with the greatest relief and joy. He was happy. When we eventually retired together for the night I drifted off to sleep in Spyro's wings with that comforting knowledge fixed in my head. This day had ended on the perfect note.

Or so I thought...

The chill was the first thing I was aware of. A shiver woke me from my sleep, but in my groggy state I couldn't figure out why I felt cold. When a breeze hit my scales I sluggishly opened my eyes to find that the sheets were still bundled at the bottom of the bed, just as they had been when I had fallen asleep. I frowned. Did Spyro not pull them up?

It was then that I finally registered the true cause of my discomfort. When I turned over to face Spyro all I found was an empty indent in the bed. He was gone.

Now truly confused, I pushed myself halfway up off the bed and began searching around the room for him. My eyes eventually fell on the open balcony doorway.

I blinked a few times in groggy confusion, reaching up to wipe the sleep from my eyes before narrowing them questioningly. I could see Spyro out on the balcony with his back to the door, but what was he doing out there this late?

Groaning silently in irritation at having to get up, I nonetheless pulled myself out of bed and shuffled my way over to the doorway. Another shiver ran across my body when I stepped outside into the cool night air, but I pushed the discomfort from my mind for the moment. After suppressing a yawn and wiping my eyes again, I spoke.

"Spyro?"

He quickly turned his head toward me, and I was caught off guard by the look in his eyes. Surprise. Embarrassment. Shame. There was something else, though, something I didn't quite have time to place before he turned evasively away from me. I frowned more deeply. What didn't he want me to see?

"Sorry," he muttered, and I thought I caught the barest ragged edge in his voice. "I didn't mean to wake you..."

This didn't feel right. There was something nagging me about Spyro's posture. He was too stiff, his wings low and held tightly to his sides, his tail curled around his feet. Plus there was the way he refused to look at me. I didn't like it.

"What are you doing out here?"

He didn't answer me, and this bothered me more than anything else. Stepping forward, I slid my paw under his chin and rested it against his cheek, pulling his head back toward me.

I faltered at the wetness in his eyes, confusion and anxiety flooding through me immediately. This wasn't the face of the happy dragon that I had fallen asleep beside at all.

"Spyro, what's wrong?"

He pulled away, hiding his face from me once more, and my heart twisted painfully in my chest. That was grief in his expression. There was no doubt about that, but what was he grieving for? What could have possibly upset him like this?

I pressed him for an answer when he didn't respond right away, almost begging for him to tell me why he was in this state. Finally, he let out a heavy, defeated sigh. He didn't look at me when he spoke, and his voice was so low that I almost didn't hear it.

"...Because the day is over. And I'm going to lose it."

For a moment I was shocked, but understanding and sympathy quickly took over when his words sunk in. My own gaze fell and I had to suppress the sigh that rose to my lips. This wasn't the first time he'd felt upset about losing his memories from the day, but that didn't make it any easier to see happening.

I tried my best to reassure him, moving closer and saying everything I could think of to lift his spirits. Usually after a couple of minutes of this I would be able to start cheering him up, but this time he was completely unresponsive to my efforts. I could only watch in dismay as, no matter what I said, he just descended farther and farther into despair.

I didn't know what to do! Why was this going so wrong? It was killing me to see him like this! He was such a strong, resilient dragon, but now he was curled in on himself like a wounded animal, his whole body shaking from broken sobs, his voice ragged and catching with every other word he tried to speak. I wasn't prepared for this! This was by far the worst I had ever seen him, and the pain it caused me to watch him suffering like this, powerless to help him in any way...it was more than I could bear! My eyes stung from my own tears, but even so I struggled as hard as I could to keep my composure. This had to stop. I had to fix this!

But how?

Frustration also began to colour my emotions, as much as I tried to suppress it. What had I done wrong to let things come to this? Didn't I do enough today to keep his spirits high? He had looked so happy! Everything had been going so well! It had basically been perfect!

Was that the problem? Had I done my job too well, and because of that the loss he felt now was all the more pronounced? If that was the case then I didn't know what I was going to do anymore! Was there no winning with this damned amnesia?!

Then he said it. That word that pushed me over the edge. Useless. My paw flew up to his face before I even realized it, anger boiling in my blood. How could he say a thing like that about himself? How could he doubt his own worth that much? Didn't he realize how much this family needed him? No! I did not spend this entire day doing everything in my power to make him feel secure and happy just to hear him devolve into this kind of self-pity!

Useless?! That's what he thought? How dare he label himself as something that low? How dare he insinuate that he wasn't worthy of this family?! I would not be spending every day of my life breaking my back to help carry him through this condition if he didn't mean the entire world to me, and he should know that! He had earned his happiness and his family! He had worked for it harder than anybody, every single day! He was the farthest thing from useless!

It didn't take me long to register how frightened my outburst had made him, though, and as soon as I had my anger faded into guilt. I hadn't meant to hit him, but hearing him say such thing about himself...it hurt. I hadn't been prepared for this. Not today.

As the last of my anger waned, my strength wavered with it and I leaned forward into Spyro's protective wings as my own tears broke free. I just didn't know what to do. I couldn't blame Spyro for feeling the way he did, but I just wanted to make his pain stop and I felt utterly powerless to do that. All I could do was keep telling him how much he truly meant to Ruby and I, and pray that he finally understood.

Relief flooded through me when, at last, he did. I could feel the tension and tremors leaving his body as he held on to me, the tears that he was fighting so hard to hold back finally draining away. His breathing calmed, his voice becoming steady once more, albeit still weak. When it seemed like Spyro had finally let go of the torment that had been crushing him, I felt its weight lift off of my shoulders too. I breathed out a long sigh, the tension in my own body fading to almost nothing. I was so glad that was over...

There was silence between us for a moment, me caught in Spyro's embrace and him seeming to still be processing these events. I almost thought we were going to stay stuck like that forever, but finally he asked if I would stay with him for a while longer. I gave him a tender smile and agreed, glad that he was alright now.

For almost an hour Spyro and I just sat there. I leaned tightly against his side, my head nestled into the crook of his neck, my body wrapped in his wing that covered me with warmth. When I spared a glance up at his face a faint smile crossed mine at the sight of his calm, accepting expression. He had made peace with his situation for another day, and I was so grateful for that. It was another crisis successfully averted. Another hurdle behind us, at least for now.

But as much as I told myself that, the peace that Spyro felt evaded me. As we sat there in silence, his tortured words began to echo in my head and I just couldn't shake them out. Maybe if I had been able to see this coming I would have been able to take it in stride better, but as it was it had rattled me badly. It was so, so easy to forget how difficult all of this really was for Spyro. He hid it so well on most days, just taking on everything that came his way because he had no other choice. True, he had let on to the sorrow he felt from time to time, but it had never been this bad before. Was this actually how he had actually felt all of those times too, though?

Did he always feel this way?

What kind of hell was this existence he was forced to live, really? On the surface he had everything: A luxurious home, steadfast friends, caring mentors, a loving family, and most of all peace, but as a result of having everything he also had to live with it all being taken away from him. Every. Single. Day.

What was that like? How soul-crushingly painful and scary was it to live in the face of that? How did he do it?

The image of him doubled over, curled in on himself in despair sprang up in my mind again, and I felt my heart twist agonizingly. The sight of him in such a state jarred me worse than anything. Spyro was easily the strongest dragon that I knew; the strongest person of any species that I had ever met, period. To see someone so strong just suddenly break like that...

I shivered, curling my tail and wings tighter around myself like a barrier. Spyro must have thought I was cold, because he wrapped his wing more snugly around me. I didn't correct him. He had just gotten over his own breakdown. I didn't want him to see mine. I buried the powerful ache in my chest that was growing stringer every second. I put on a smile and dried my tears, pushing the images of his grief and the sounds of his broken voice down where he would never see how badly they affected me. No matter what it took, I would make sure that he ended this day content.

Eventually, Spyro's fatigue started to overpower him. After the third deep yawn that passed his jaws I rose and nudged him gently with my snout, motioning toward the bed. He gave me a tired smile and nodded, offering no protest as I half led, half dragged his stumbling form inside. A deep, comfortable sigh sounded when I lowered him onto the bed and he sank into the padded mattress. Despite myself I had to smile at this. Leaning down, I laid a soft kiss on his brow and nuzzled his cheek tenderly. He groggily lifted a wing in invitation, but I shook my head.

"I'll be right back," I whispered to him. "I'm just going to check on Ruby."

He nodded sluggishly, his wing falling. "Okay. I love you, Cynder. And...thanks..."

His voice trailed off into a low murmur as he quickly drifted off, his breathing soon falling into a slow, steady rhythm. He looked so calm now, it could almost make someone forget the pain that he had just poured out before.

My smile slowly wavered, flickering out like a candle, and without a sound I turned and crept out of the bedroom. Soon I had pulled the door shut behind me, and after that I was alone in the cool darkness of the corridor.

Another shiver ran through my frame, followed soon after by a strange choking sound. Slowly I slumped back against the door, hugging my forepaws around my middle as tremors shook me more and more fitfully. A wing rose up to cover my face, and then there in my solitude, with no one else there to hear them, my muffled sobs began echoing down the empty hall...