I clenched my teeth, trying to ride out the wave of pain that washed over me. Thyriatrix's grip on my hand tightened, her eyes locked on mine with a fierce determination.
Tharros stepped forward, his face set in a resolute expression. "Father, we're here for you," he said, his voice steady. "We'll help you through this."
Lyriath and Vyraxys moved to either side of me, their hands on my shoulders, offering what little comfort they could. Nyxoria and Lyrixa tended to the younger children, keeping them calm and distracted from my struggles.
As the pain intensified, I felt my body begin to tremble. Thyriatrix's voice whispered in my ear, "Aetherius, breathe. Just breathe."
I focused on her words, trying to calm my racing heart and slow my ragged breathing. The pain was overwhelming, but I knew I had to endure it. For my family's sake, I had to be strong.
With a Herculean effort, I forced myself to relax, letting the pain wash over me like a wave. Thyriatrix's eyes never left mine, her gaze a steady anchor in the storm of agony.
As the wave receded, I lay back, exhausted, my body slick with sweat. Thyriatrix's hand never left mine, her touch a comforting reminder that I was not alone.
"We have a long way to go," she whispered, her voice a soft promise. "But we'll face it together, one day at a time."
I nodded, my eyes locked on hers, drawing strength from her determination. We still had 10-15 long weeks ahead of us, but with my family by my side, I knew I could endure anything.
I sighed. "I should go hunting and eat something!"
Thyriatrix's eyes widened in alarm. "Aetherius, no! You're in no condition to go hunting. You need to rest and conserve your strength."
Tharros stepped forward, his face set in a firm expression. "Father, Mother is right. We'll hunt for you. Lyriath, Vyraxys, let's go."
Lyriath and Vyraxys nodded and followed Tharros out of the cave, leaving Thyriatrix to tend to me. She helped me sit up, propping me up with pillows and blankets.
"Here, drink this," she said, offering me a flask of water. "And eat this." She handed me a piece of dried meat and some fruit.
I took a bite, savoring the taste and texture. It was a small comfort, but it was something. And with Thyriatrix by my side, I felt a sense of peace wash over me.
I sighed, and my stomach growled.
Thyriatrix smiled and stroked my hair. "I think someone's hungry," she said, her voice warm and soothing.
Tharros, Lyriath, and Vyraxys returned with a freshly caught rabbit, which Thyriatrix quickly skinned and prepared for roasting.
The aroma of roasting meat filled the cave, making my stomach growl even louder. Thyriatrix chuckled and handed me a piece of cooked meat.
"Eat slowly, Aetherius," she said, her eyes watching me with concern. "You need to keep your strength up."
I took a bite, savoring the flavor and texture. It was a small comfort, but it was something. And with my family around me, I felt a sense of gratitude and love.
My stomach growled and ran and flew off to go hunt something myself while I heard Thyriatrix yelling from the distance.
I stumbled after my stomach, my legs weak and unsteady. Thyriatrix's voice grew fainter as I staggered out of the cave, into the bright sunlight.
"Aetherius, no! Come back! You're not strong enough!" she cried, but I was beyond reason.
My stomach seemed to have a mind of its own, leading me deeper into the forest. I stumbled over roots and fallen branches, my vision blurring.
Suddenly, I heard the sound of rushing water and my stomach seemed to leap with excitement. I followed the sound, my legs carrying me towards the river.
As I reached the riverbank, I saw a fish swimming in the shallows. My stomach growled loudly, and I lunged forward, trying to catch the fish with my bare hands...
And I tossed it and swallowed it whole.
As soon as the fish slid down my throat, I felt a surge of energy and a sense of satisfaction. My stomach finally stopped growling, and I let out a contented sigh.
But as I turned to head back to the cave, I saw Thyriatrix standing on the riverbank, her arms crossed and a look of exasperation on her face.
"Aetherius, what were you thinking?" she asked, shaking her head. "You're not even supposed to be out of bed, let alone eating raw fish from the river."
I shrugged, feeling a bit sheepish. "My stomach was hungry," I said, as if that explained everything.
Thyriatrix sighed and walked over to me, helping me back to the cave. "Let's get you back to bed and hope that you don't get sick from eating that fish," she said, her voice stern but her eyes filled with concern.
My stomach growled again, and I sighed, and I looked around to see a massive behemoth.
The behemoth towered over us, its massive body casting a long shadow across the ground. Thyriatrix's eyes widened in alarm as she grabbed my arm, pulling me close.
"Aetherius, we need to get out of here, now," she whispered urgently.
But my stomach had other plans. It growled again, louder this time, and I felt a strange sensation building inside me.
The behemoth's eyes fixed on us, and it took a step closer, its massive feet shaking the ground. Thyriatrix's grip on my arm tightened.
"Aetherius, please," she whispered. "We can't take on that thing. Not in your condition."
But I wasn't listening. My stomach was driving me now, and I felt an overwhelming urge to charge forward and attack the behemoth...
I bit it neck and dug my claws into it flesh and digging it deeper until I killed it.
As the behemoth's lifeless body crashed to the ground, I stood panting my claws, still dug deep into its flesh. Thyriatrix stared at me in shock, her eyes wide with a mix of fear and awe.
"Aetherius, what...how did you do that?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
I answered "look the 30 shadow wings may be digressing my strength, but they didn't digressing that much!" I took a bite from the massive behemoth.
As I tore into the behemoth's flesh, Thyriatrix watched in a mixture of horror and fascination. "Aetherius, maybe you should slow down," she said, her voice laced with concern. "You don't know what kind of effects eating that raw meat will have on you."
But I was beyond reason, driven by a primal hunger that couldn't be satiated. I devoured the behemoth's flesh, feeling a temporary satisfaction, but also a growing discomfort in my stomach.
Thyriatrix tried to intervene, but I growled, warning her to stay back. For a moment, our eyes locked, and I saw a flicker of fear in hers.
But then, I started to feel a stabbing pain in my stomach, and I doubled over, clutching my abdomen. Thyriatrix rushed to my side, concern etched on her face.
"Aetherius, I told you that eating too much of that raw meat would make you sick," she said, helping me to my feet. "Let's get you back to the cave and get you comfortable."
I nodded, still clutching my stomach, and let Thyriatrix lead me back to the cave. The Shadow Wings inside me stirred, but I didn't feel any significant change or benefit from eating the behemoth's flesh.
As we walked back to the cave, I couldn't help but feel a bit embarrassed by my lack of self-control. Thyriatrix seemed to sense my mood and placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder.
"Don't worry, Aetherius," she said softly. "We'll get you feeling better soon. Maybe next time, we can find you something a bit more... digestible."
I managed a weak smile, still clutching my stomach. As we approached the cave, I saw Tharros and the others watching us with concern.
"What happened?" Tharros asked, rushing to my side.
"I think your father overindulged in behemoth meat," Thyriatrix replied dryly.
Tharros's eyes widened in alarm. "Father, are you okay?"
I nodded, still feeling a bit queasy. "I'll be fine, son. Just need to... recover."
I smiled and walked towards the wall of the mountain cave and lay there a bit while rubbing my belly.
As I lay there, rubbing my belly and trying to soothe the discomfort, Thyriatrix sat down beside me, a gentle smile on her face.
"I told you that behemoth meat was a bad idea," she said, her voice teasing.
I chuckled, wincing slightly as my stomach protested. "Yeah, yeah. You were right."
Tharros and the others hovered nearby, watching me with concern. But as they saw that I was okay, they began to disperse, going back to their various activities.
Thyriatrix stayed with me, her hand on my shoulder, offering a comforting presence. I closed my eyes, feeling a sense of gratitude for her, and for my family, who were always there to support me, even when I made mistakes.
The Shadow Wings is stirring a bit, and I know that they won't stand still from my word or anyone.
I felt a shiver run down my spine as I sensed the Shadow Wings stirring within me. Thyriatrix's eyes narrowed, her gaze intense.
"What is it, Aetherius?" she asked, her voice low and urgent.
I took a deep breath, trying to calm the growing unease. "The Shadow Wings," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. "They're stirring. And I know that they won't be silenced or still for long."
Thyriatrix's expression turned grim, her eyes flashing with determination. "We'll face whatever comes next together," she said, her voice firm. "As a family."
I nodded, feeling a sense of resolve wash over me. The Shadow Wings might be unpredictable and powerful, but with my family by my side, I knew that we could face whatever lay ahead.
As I stood there, surrounded by the people I loved, I felt a sense of determination wash over me. I knew that the journey ahead would be fraught with danger and uncertainty, but I was ready to face it head-on.
Thyriatrix's hand found mine, her grip warm and reassuring. "We'll get through this, Aetherius," she whispered. "Together."
I nodded, feeling a sense of gratitude for her unwavering support. Tharros, Lyriath, Vyraxys, Nyxoria, Lyrixa, Kaidorix, Kieraxys, and Niamon all gathered around me, their faces set with determination.
As we stood there, united in our resolve, I felt the Shadow Wings stirring within me once more. But this time, I was ready. I steeled myself for the challenges ahead, knowing that with my family by my side, I could face whatever the future held.
I take a deep breath "well look like it is 10-15 weeks of discomfort!"
Thyriatrix smiled wryly and shook her head. "I think that's an understatement, Aetherius," she said, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
Tharros chuckled and clapped me on the back. "Well, Father, at least you're taking it in stride," he said, grinning.
The others nodded in agreement, their faces set with determination. We all knew that the next 10-15 weeks would be challenging, but we were ready to face them together.
I took another deep breath, feeling a sense of resolve wash over me. "Well, let's get comfortable then," I said, smiling wryly. "It's going to be a long few weeks."
The next day, I was laying on the ground with my back and my bulge belly containing 30 shadow wings.
I lay there, feeling the weight of the 30 Shadow Wings inside me, their presence stirring and squirming like living things. My back ached from the strain, and my bulging belly felt like it was going to burst at any moment.
Thyriatrix sat beside me, her light green scales glistening in the dim light of the cave. She placed a gentle hand on my belly, her eyes filled with concern.
"How are you feeling, Aetherius?" she asked, her voice soft.
I grimaced, trying to find a comfortable position. "I've been better," I admitted, wincing as the Shadow Wings shifted inside me.
Thyriatrix nodded sympathetically. "It's only been a day," she reminded me. "We still have a long way to go."
I nodded, feeling a sense of resignation wash over me. I knew that the next 10-15 weeks would be a challenge, but with Thyriatrix and our family by my side, I was determined to see it through.
Thyriatrix left leaving me alone here, and I sighed, and I heard Tharros voice, "Father! How are you doing after the next day of you carrying 30 Shadow Wings?!"
I turned my head, seeing Tharros standing in the entrance of the cave, his silver scales catching the dim light. I managed a weak smile, feeling a sense of relief at his concern.
"Hey, Tharros," I replied, my voice a bit strained. "I'm... managing. It's not easy, but I'm trying to stay positive."
Tharros nodded, his expression serious. "We're all worried about you, Father," he said, his voice filled with empathy. "But we're here for you, and we'll get through this together."
I felt a surge of gratitude towards my son, and I reached out, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Thanks, Tharros," I said, my voice a bit choked. "That means a lot to me."
Tharros climbed up to the top of my belly, and the 30 shadow wings sensed Tharros. They pushed up and down, making my belly rose and fell gently.
As Tharros settled on top of my belly, the 30 Shadow Wings inside me began to stir, their dark energy swirling and churning. My belly started to rise and fall gently, as if the Shadow Wings were breathing, or even... fluttering.
Tharros looked down at me with a mixture of fascination and concern, his silver scales glinting in the dim light. "Father, what's happening?" he asked, his voice soft.
I took a deep breath, trying to reassure him. "It's okay, Tharros," I said, my voice calm. "The Shadow Wings are just... reacting to your presence."
Tharros nodded, his eyes fixed on my belly as it continued to rise and fall. "It's like they're trying to get out," he said, his voice filled with wonder.
I smiled wryly, feeling a sense of trepidation. "Let's hope not," I said, trying to joke. But deep down, I knew that the Shadow Wings were a force to be reckoned with, and I couldn't predict what they would do next.
I thought to myself,'What am I going to do?' Then I have an idea.'I should see my smart friend and elder Kealith and see if he can deal with an impending doom,' I thought myself again.
I made my way to Kealith's dwelling, a mixture of excitement and trepidation brewing inside me. As I approached, I could hear the sound of scribbling and muttering coming from within.
I knocked on the door, and a faint "Enter" echoed from inside. I pushed open the door and stepped into the cozy, cluttered space. Kealith looked up from his work, his eyes twinkling with curiosity.
"Ah, young one," he said, his voice warm. "What brings you to my humble abode today?"
I giggled. "Look, you are only 2 years older than me, and we are friends, remember!" I smiled
Kealith chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Ah, yes, yes, of course! I forget that sometimes," he said, smiling back at me. "So, what's on your mind? You didn't come here just to tease me about my age, did you?" He leaned back in his chair, his expression turning serious.
I took a deep breath, trying to gather my thoughts. "Kealith, I need your help," I said, my voice serious. "I've gotten myself into a bit of a situation."
Kealith's expression turned curious, and he leaned forward in his chair. "What kind of situation?" he asked, his voice low and concerned.
I hesitated, unsure of how to explain. But I knew I had to tell him the truth. "I ate a pregnant female Shadow Wing," I said, the words tumbling out of my mouth.
Kealith's eyes widened in shock, and he sat back in his chair, his expression stunned. "Aetherius, what were you thinking?" he asked, his voice incredulous.
I blushed. "I didn't know and didn't think at the time! So I came here to help you so I won't die!"
Kealith's expression softened, and he leaned forward again, his eyes filled with concern. "Aetherius, you're not going to die," he said, his voice reassuring. "At least, not if I have anything to say about it."
He stood up and began pacing around the room, his hands clasped behind his back. "We need to figure out how to deal with the...unwanted guests you're carrying," he said, his voice thoughtful.
I watched him, feeling a sense of hope rise up inside me. Maybe, just maybe, Kealith could help me find a way out of this mess.
Kealith, just remember something "Wait there is a book in ancient Library that can boost your survival, and it is a magic spell for light element user!" He said.
I smiled. "I have a light element!" My albino scales gleaming.
Kealith's eyes lit up with excitement. "That's perfect, Aetherius! The ancient library is said to be hidden deep within the Dragon's Spine mountains. It's a treacherous journey, but if that book can help you survive this...condition, it's worth the risk."
He strode over to a large, dusty map that hung on the wall, his claws tracing the winding paths and ancient runes etched into the parchment. "We'll need to move quickly, though. The journey will take at least a week, and we don't know how much time you have before...the Shadow Wings emerge."
I nodded, my heart pounding with determination. I was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, as long as it meant saving my own life and the lives of those I loved.
I look at Kealith. "You mean the drakon spire where I live, or is it a different mountain?" I ask
Kealith's eyes locked onto mine, his gaze intensifying. "Since you live in the Drakon Spire, Aetherius, your familiarity with the terrain will be a significant advantage on our quest to find the ancient library," he said, his voice thoughtful.
He nodded, his expression confident. "We can use your knowledge of the area to navigate the Dragon's Spine mountains more efficiently and avoid potential dangers."
I nodded "alright!" And the Shadow Wings squirming inside of me again.
I winced, my scales rippling with discomfort as the Shadow Wings stirred within me. Kealith's eyes narrowed, his expression concerned. "Aetherius, how are you feeling? Are the Shadow Wings...moving again?"
I nodded "Yes they are, and the healer said I'm carrying about 30 shadow wings!" Kealith, look at me in surprise and shock.
Kealith's eyes widened in horror, his scales paling to a faint gray. "Thirty...Shadow Wings?" he whispered, his voice trembling with alarm. "Aetherius, that's...that's unprecedented. I've never heard of a host carrying so many embryos at once."
I sighed. "Can't we get to the point!"
Kealith shook his head, composing himself. "Right, of course. We need to focus on finding that ancient library and getting the spell to help you survive this...ordeal." He paused, his eyes locked on mine. "We should leave immediately. Time is of the essence, and every moment counts."
I nodded, determination burning within me. "Let's go," I said, turning towards the door.
Kealith followed close behind, his long strides keeping pace with mine. As we emerged from his dwelling, the bright sunlight and crisp mountain air hit me like a slap in the face, momentarily distracting me from the discomfort of the Shadow Wings squirming inside me.
"We'll need to move quickly and stay alert," Kealith said, his eyes scanning the surrounding landscape. "The Dragon's Spine mountains can be treacherous, even for experienced travelers like ourselves."
I nodded, my gaze sweeping over the rugged terrain. "I know these mountains like the back of my claw," I said, a hint of confidence creeping into my voice. "Let's get moving."
With a deep breath, we set off towards the ancient library, our scales glistening in the sunlight as we navigated the winding mountain paths. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the scent of pine and earth.
As we climbed higher, the terrain grew increasingly treacherous, with steep cliffs and jagged boulders looming above us. Kealith and I moved in tandem, our eyes scanning the path ahead for any signs of danger.
After several hours of walking, we finally reached the entrance to the ancient library – a massive stone structure hidden behind a cascading waterfall. The roar of the falls was almost deafening, and the air was cool and damp.
Kealith and I exchanged a look, and then we stepped forward, disappearing into the shadows of the ancient library. The interior was musty and dimly lit, the air thick with the scent of old parchment and dust.
"We're looking for a book on light magic," Kealith whispered, his eyes scanning the shelves. "Something that will help you survive the emergence of the Shadow Wings."
I nodded, my gaze sweeping over the rows of ancient tomes. "I think I saw a section on light magic over there," I said, pointing to a distant shelf.
Kealith nodded, and we made our way deeper into the library, our hearts pounding with anticipation. Would we find the book in time, or would the Shadow Wings emerge before we could unlock the secrets of the ancient text?
As we navigated the narrow aisles between the shelves, the silence was oppressive, punctuated only by the faint rustling of parchment and the creaking of old leather bindings. Kealith and I moved with reverence, our scales barely making a sound on the cold stone floor.
We finally reached the section on light magic, and I began scanning the shelves, my eyes running over the titles etched into the spines of the books. Kealith stood beside me, his eyes scanning the shelves with equal intensity.
Suddenly, I felt a jolt of excitement. "Kealith, look!" I whispered, my claw reaching out to touch the spine of a particularly old and worn tome.
The title, "Lux Aeterna," was etched in faded gold lettering, and the cover was adorned with intricate symbols of light and protection. Kealith's eyes lit up with excitement as he reached out to take the book from the shelf.
"Is this it?" I asked, my heart pounding with anticipation.
Kealith opened the book, his eyes scanning the pages with a look of intense focus. After a moment, he nodded, his expression grim. "This is it," he said. "But we need to be careful. The spell we need is powerful, and it comes with a warning..."
Kealith sighed and read it a bit "Oh it is a spell that if you have fetal injuries or wounds, it can contain your soul inside your body and keep you alive!" He said and looked at me, and he continues to read it.
Kealith continues to read it. "It said it can keep your heart beating no matter how fetal it was! And the only problem is that you need more mana!"
I smiled "well my son Kieraxys, he had mana elements!"
Kealith looks at me in shock. "A mana elements that... I have never heard about it, and it is a new element, and your son is the first dragon that has these elements, right?!" I nodded
Kealith's eyes widened in amazement, his voice barely above a whisper. "Aetherius, this is...this is incredible! A new element, and your son is the first to possess it? This changes everything!"
He paused, his mind racing with the implications. "If Kieraxys has mana elements, we might be able to harness his energy to power the spell. But we'll need to be careful, we can't risk harming him or draining his energy too much."
Kealith looked at me with a determined expression. "We'll need to get Kieraxys here, and fast. We don't have much time before the Shadow Wings emerge. Are you ready to do this, Aetherius?"
I sighed "Kealith didn't I tell you I am only 1 day and there is still 69-105 days remaining?!" Kealith shook his head.
"No, you didn't tell me at all!" He said, and I realized I forgot to tell him about how long I have been carrying 30 Shadow Wings.
I felt a surge of embarrassment and anxiety, realizing my mistake. "Oh, Kealith, I...I apologize. I forgot to tell you. I've been carrying the 30 Shadow Wings for only a day now," I admitted, my scales prickling with discomfort.
Kealith's expression changed from confusion to shock, and he took a step back, his eyes wide with alarm. "A day?! You've been carrying 30 Shadow Wings for only a day, and you're still...functional?" he asked, his voice incredulous.
I nodded, feeling a sense of trepidation. "Yes, I...I don't know how much longer I can keep this up, though. The healer said I'm already showing signs of strain," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper.
Kealith's expression turned grim, and he nodded slowly. "We need to get you prepared for the ritual as soon as possible. The Lux Aeterna spell is our best chance at saving your life, but we can't afford to wait any longer."
He paused, thinking for a moment. "I'll need to gather the necessary materials and prepare the ritual site. We'll need to perform the spell at exactly midnight, when the celestial alignment is favorable."
Kealith looked at me with a serious expression. "Aetherius, I need you to promise me that you'll be careful and conserve your energy until the ritual. We can't afford to have you exerting yourself and risking further strain."
I nodded, feeling a sense of determination. "I'll be careful, Kealith. I promise."
Kealith nodded, a small smile on his face. "Good. I'll get started on the preparations. We'll get through this, Aetherius. Together."
I sighed. "How about I go learn it right now!" Kealith sighed and nodded and looked at the book about learning the lux aeterna.
Kealith opened the book to the page marked "Lux Aeterna" and began to read aloud. "To cast the Lux Aeterna spell, one must first attune themselves to the celestial harmonics. This requires a deep understanding of the ancient arts and a strong connection to the mystical forces."
He looked up at me, his eyes serious. "Aetherius, this spell is not to be taken lightly. It requires immense concentration, willpower, and magical energy."
Kealith continued reading, his voice steady and clear. "To begin, one must assume the stance of the Golden Dawn, with feet shoulder-width apart and hands clasped in a prayer-like gesture."
He demonstrated the stance, his movements fluid and precise. "Next, one must focus their intent and visualize the Lux Aeterna energy coursing through their veins."
Kealith closed his eyes, taking a deep breath as he began to demonstrate the visualization technique. "Imagine a brilliant light emanating from within, filling your entire being with warmth and energy."
I watched, mesmerized, as Kealith's body began to glow with a soft, ethereal light.
I go try it myself and I did it.
As I stood up, I felt a surge of confidence and excitement. I took a deep breath, assumed the stance of the Golden Dawn, and closed my eyes. I focused my intent, visualizing the Lux Aeterna energy coursing through my veins.
To my amazement, I felt a brilliant light begin to emanate from within me. The energy coursed through my body, filling me with a sense of warmth and power. I opened my eyes to find that my scales were glowing with a soft, ethereal light, just like Kealith's.
Kealith's eyes widened in surprise, and he let out a low whistle. "Aetherius, you're a natural! I've never seen anyone pick up the visualization technique so quickly."
He smiled, a look of pride on his face. "You're one step closer to mastering the Lux Aeterna spell. Now, let's move on to the next step: channeling the energy."
I giggled, "and to be honest, I am a fast learner!" Kealith nodded in agreement.
Kealith chuckled, a warm smile spreading across his face. "Indeed, you are! I've noticed that about you, Aetherius. You have a keen mind and a quick wit. It's one of the reasons I'm confident you'll master the Lux Aeterna spell in no time."
He paused, his expression turning serious once more. "Now, let's proceed with the next step. Channeling the energy will require focus and control. Are you ready to try?"
After about hours, I have finally fully learned in and how it works.
Kealith beamed with pride, a wide smile spreading across his face. "Aetherius, you've done it! You've mastered the Lux Aeterna spell in record time. I've never seen anyone learn so quickly."
He nodded, his eyes shining with approval. "You now possess the knowledge and power to harness the Lux Aeterna energy. With this spell, you'll be able to contain the Shadow Wings and prevent them from tearing you apart."
Kealith paused, his expression turning serious once more. "Remember, the spell requires focus and control. You must be careful not to let your emotions cloud your judgment. Can I trust that you'll use this power wisely?"
We went outside from the ancient library from drakon Spire Mountain, and Kealith flew off, and I go up to the mountain cave or drakon spire that where me and my family lives.
The Shadow wings stir and squirm a bit.
I felt a sudden jolt of discomfort as the Shadow Wings stirred within me. My scales prickled with unease, and I could sense the dark energy shifting and squirming like living tendrils.
Thyriatrix's eyes narrowed, her gaze fixed on me with concern. "Aetherius, are you alright?" she asked, her voice low and soothing.
I nodded, trying to reassure her. "I'm fine, my love. Just a slight...adjustment," I said, trying to downplay the sensation.
But deep down, I knew that the Shadow Wings were growing restless, sensing the power of the Lux Aeterna spell within me. I could feel their dark energy probing, testing the boundaries of my control.
I thought to myself,'I should use the lux aeterna when it time for them to emerge'
I mentally prepared myself for the impending emergence of the Shadow Wings, my mind focused on the Lux Aeterna spell. I knew that timing would be crucial, and I needed to be ready to cast the spell the moment the Shadow Wings began to emerge.
With a deep breath, I steeled myself for the challenge ahead, my thoughts centered on the spell and its power to contain the Shadow Wings. I was determined to protect my family and myself from the destructive force of the Shadow Wings, and I knew that the Lux Aeterna spell was my best hope for success.
As I stood there, mentally preparing myself for the battle ahead, my family began to stir, sensing my tension. Thyriatrix, ever the attentive mate, approached me, her light green scales glistening in the dim light of the cave.
"Aetherius, what's wrong?" she asked, her voice low and concerned.
I hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. But something in her expression told me that she already knew something was amiss.
"It's the Shadow Wings," I said finally, my voice barely above a whisper. "They'll be emerging soon - within the next 69 to 105 days. I need to be ready."
Thyriatrix's expression turned grave, but she nodded resolutely. "We'll face it together, as a family," she said, her voice firm.
The others, sensing our tension, began to gather around us, their eyes filled with a mix of curiosity and concern. I knew that I had to protect them, no matter what lay ahead.
I question "Hey Thyriatrix, since it only about 1 day since I become the host of the Shadow Wings! How long will they kick?"
Thyriatrix's expression turned thoughtful, her light green scales seeming to shimmer in the dim light of the cave. "Aetherius, as the host of the Shadow Wings, you have approximately 69 to 105 days before they emerge," she said, her voice measured.
"But since it's only been about 1 day since you became the host, we have a bit of time to prepare. However, we should use this time wisely and make sure you're ready for their emergence."
She paused, her eyes locked on mine. "We'll need to work together to ensure your safety and the safety of our family. The Shadow Wings are a formidable force, and we can't take any chances."
Thyriatrix sighed, "And by the way, it won't be long before they kick!"
I question, "What do you mean by 'it won't be long'?"
Thyriatrix's expression turned serious, her voice laced with concern. "I mean that the Shadow Wings will begin to stir and assert their influence over you soon. It's not just a matter of waiting for the 69 to 105 days to pass."
She paused, her eyes locked on mine. "As the host, you'll start to feel their presence growing stronger, tempting and influencing you. It's a subtle process at first, but it will escalate quickly."
Thyriatrix's words sent a shiver down my spine. I knew that I had to be prepared to face the Shadow Wings' influence head-on.
I question "no I mean seriously, how much long left when they started to kick?!"
Thyriatrix looks concerned and answered "Well, about now!"
I look at Thyriatrix. "In what?!" My word cut off.
I felt a sudden, searing pain in my back, like a thousand knives stabbing into my scales. I arched my back, my wings involuntarily spreading wide as I let out a pained roar.
Thyriatrix's eyes widened in alarm, and she rushed to my side. "Aetherius, what's happening?" she exclaimed, her voice laced with worry.
I stumbled, my vision blurring as the pain intensified. The Shadow Wings were kicking, their dark energy coursing through my veins like liquid fire. I felt my control slipping, my mind clouded by the Wings' malevolent influence.
"Aetherius, hold on!" Thyriatrix shouted, her voice piercing through the haze. "We'll get through this together! Our family will support you!" I go and lay down on my side.
I lay down on my side, my scales glistening in the dim light of the cave. The pain from the Shadow Wings' kicking continued to throb through my body, but I tried to focus on calming my breathing.
Thyriatrix lay down beside me, her light green scales a soothing presence. She gently wrapped her tail around mine, offering what comfort she could.
The rest of our family gathered around us, their eyes filled with concern. Tharros, Lyriath, Vyraxys, Nyxoria, Lyrixa, Kaidorix, Kieraxys, and little Niamon all watched over me with worry etched on their faces.
I closed my eyes, feeling a sense of gratitude for my family's support. Together, we would face whatever challenges lay ahead.
Tharros approached me cautiously, his silver scales catching the dim light of the cave. His ears were folded back against his head, a clear sign of his worry and concern.
He sniffed gently at my scales, his eyes scanning my face for any sign of distress. I could sense his fear and uncertainty, but he was trying to be strong for me.
Tharros's voice was barely above a whisper as he asked, "Father, are you okay?" His eyes locked onto mine, searching for reassurance.
I smiled weakly, trying to reassure Tharros. "I'm...I'm okay, son," I whispered, my voice strained from the pain. "Just a little...discomfort. The Shadow Wings are just kicking, that's all."
Tharros's ears folded back further, his eyes clouding with worry. He knew that the Shadow Wings' kicking was only the beginning, that soon they would emerge and I would have to face the full fury of their power.
But for now, Tharros just nodded, his silver scales glinting in the dim light. He lay down beside me, his head resting on my shoulder, and I could feel his warmth and comfort radiating through me.
The rest of our family gathered around us, their presence a soothing balm to my frazzled nerves. Thyriatrix wrapped her tail around mine, holding me close, while the others watched over us with anxious eyes.
As we lay there, surrounded by the people I loved, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. I knew that I wasn't alone, that my family would stand by me no matter what challenges lay ahead.
Pov Tharros
I lay beside my father, my silver scales glistening in the dim light of the cave. I could feel his pain and discomfort, sense the turmoil brewing within him. The Shadow Wings' kicking was a harbinger of things to come, and I knew that soon my father would have to face the full fury of their power.
I nuzzled my head against his shoulder, trying to offer what little comfort I could. My father's weakness was a rare sight, and it filled me with a sense of worry and uncertainty. I had always looked up to him as a pillar of strength, a mighty drakon who could conquer any challenge.
But now, as I gazed up at his pained face, I saw vulnerability and fear. It was a sobering reminder that even the strongest among us can fall, and that soon I might have to face the Shadow Wings' terror on my own.
My family's presence around us was a reassuring comfort, but I knew that I had to be strong for my father, for all of us. I steeled myself, trying to push aside my own fears and doubts. I would stand by my father's side, no matter what lay ahead.
As I lay there, I could feel my father's labored breathing, his chest rising and falling with a slow, deliberate rhythm. His scales, normally a shining silver, seemed dull and lackluster, as if the pain and fear were draining the very life from him.
I glanced around at my family, seeing the worry and concern etched on their faces. My mother, Thyriatrix, was wrapped tightly around my father, her light green scales a comforting presence. My siblings, Lyriath, Vyraxys, Nyxoria, Lyrixa, Kaidorix, Kieraxys, and little Niamon, all watched with wide, fearful eyes, unsure of what was happening.
I knew that I had to be strong, not just for my father, but for all of them. I took a deep breath, trying to calm my own racing heart. I would stand by my father's side, no matter what lay ahead. I would protect him, and our family, with every ounce of strength I possessed.
As I made this silent vow, I felt a surge of determination course through me. I would not let the Shadow Wings defeat us. I would not let them take my father from me. I would fight, with every breath in my body, to keep my family safe.
I question "Father what will happen if they emerge?"
Father gave me a force smile "well they will tear me apart from the inside, and" Father paused
Father seemed to hesitate and said, "It more like bursting out, and blood will be over this place!"
Mother yelled "AETHERIUS HE IS 7 YEARS OLD HATCHLING!"
My mother's voice was like a thunderclap, echoing off the walls of the cave. She rushed to my father's side, her light green scales flaring with a mix of fear and anger.
"Aetherius, how could you?" she exclaimed, her voice trembling. "Tharros is just a hatchling, he doesn't need to hear such gruesome details!"
My father's face went pale, and he looked at me with a mixture of horror and regret. "Tharros, I...I'm sorry," he stammered. "I didn't mean to scare you."
I felt a lump form in my throat as I looked up at my father. I didn't fully understand what was happening, but I knew it couldn't be good. The fear and worry etched on my parents' faces told me that much.
My ears folded from the side even further.
My ears folded back even further, almost flat against my skull, as I gazed up at my parents with wide, worried eyes.
The tension in the air was palpable, and I could sense the weight of their concern.
My tail twitched nervously, and I felt a faint tremble run through my small body.
I began to cry and whimper loudly.
My mother immediately wrapped her body around me, holding me close as she tried to comfort me. "Shh, Tharros, it's okay, little one," she whispered softly, her warm breath against my scales. "Father didn't mean to scare you. Everything will be alright."
Father looked on, his eyes filled with regret and worry. He reached out a claw, gently stroking my head, trying to soothe me. "Tharros, please forgive me. I was wrong to tell you such things. You're just a hatchling, you shouldn't have to bear such burdens."
Despite their efforts to calm me, I continued to cry and whimper, my small body shaking with fear and uncertainty.
Father mumbled, "To be fair, there has been reported that the host belly burst by releasing the newborn shadow wings." I heard what Father just said, and I whimpered and cried loudly.
Mother's eyes widened in shock and anger, her voice low and stern. "Aetherius, that's enough! You're scaring him even more!" She tightened her coils around me, trying to shield me from Father's disturbing words.
Father's face contorted in a mixture of guilt and despair. "I...I'm sorry," he stammered. "I didn't mean to frighten him further."
But the damage was done. I continued to wail and whimper, my small body shaking with terror. The image of Father's belly bursting open, releasing a horde of dark, terrifying creatures, was forever seared into my mind.
Pov Aetherius
I watched in anguish as my son, Tharros, trembled with fear, his small body wracked with sobs. I felt a deep regret for my thoughtless words, knowing that I had only made things worse.
My mate, Thyriatrix, glared at me, her eyes blazing with a mixture of anger and worry. I knew that I had let her down, and more importantly, I had let Tharros down.
I felt a pang of desperation, knowing that I was running out of time. The Shadow Wings were growing stronger, and soon they would emerge, changing me forever. I wanted to protect my family, to keep them safe from the horror that was to come.
But how could I, when I couldn't even protect my own son from the truth?
I began to lick his silver scales gently to try and calm him down. "It OK, little ones there are only 69-105 days remaining before they emerge! And" my word were cut off by Tharros's saddest even more from my word.
Pov Tharros
I wailed even louder, my small body shaking with despair. 69-105 days? That was all the time I had left with Father? The thought of losing him to the Shadow Wings was unbearable.
I buried my face in Father's scales, my tears flowing uncontrollably. I couldn't imagine a world without Father by my side. The Shadow Wings were monsters, and they were going to take him away from me.
Father's gentle licking and soft words of comfort only made me cry harder. I knew he was trying to reassure me, but his words only filled me with a sense of impending doom.
Mother, look at Father in anger. "AETHERIUS YOU HAVE NOW SCARED HIM EVEN MORE!" She yelled.
Father's eyes widened in alarm as Mother's angry voice echoed through the cave. He looked at me, then back at Mother, his expression filled with regret and apology.
"I...I'm sorry, Thyriatrix," Father stammered, his voice barely above a whisper. "I didn't mean to frighten him further. I just wanted to prepare him for what's to come."
Mother's anger didn't seem to abate, her eyes blazing with a fierce inner light. "Prepare him?" she spat. "You're scaring him half to death! He's just a hatchling, Aetherius. He doesn't need to know the details of your...condition."
Mother was still angry and said, "You know he can't handle fear that much, and you know that he had a very strong bond towards you!" Father nodded
Father nodded slowly, his eyes cast downward in shame. "I know, Thyriatrix. I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking. I just...I don't know how much longer I can keep this up. The Shadow Wings are getting stronger, and I can feel myself losing control."
Father's voice cracked with emotion, and he paused, taking a deep breath before continuing. "I just want to prepare him, to make sure he's ready for what's coming. But I know I went about it the wrong way. I'm sorry, Thyriatrix. I'm sorry, Tharros."
Mother takes a deep breath to calm herself. "What by scared him and fully traumatized him as much as possible! Is that what you mean preparing?!"
Father flinched at Mother's words, his eyes widening in hurt and shame. "No, Thyriatrix, that's not what I meant," he protested, his voice barely above a whisper. "I just...I want to make sure he's prepared for the worst. I don't want him to be caught off guard when...when the Shadow Wings emerge."
Father's voice trailed off, and he looked at me with a mixture of sadness and regret. I could see the pain and fear in his eyes, and I knew that he was struggling to come to terms with his own fate.
Pov Aetherius
I felt a stinging sensation in my heart as Thyriatrix's words cut deep. I knew she was angry, and rightly so. I had mishandled the situation, and now Tharros was paying the price.
I looked at my son, seeing the fear and trauma etched on his small face. I felt a wave of regret wash over me, knowing that I had caused him so much pain. I wanted to reach out, to comfort him, but I was afraid of making things worse.
Thyriatrix's anger was justified, and I knew I had to make things right. I took a deep breath, trying to find the words to apologize, to make amends. But before I could speak, Thyriatrix's next words cut through the air, sharp as a knife.
His ears now folded even more from fear and concern and worried.
Tharros's ears folded back even further, almost flat against his skull, as he gazed up at me with wide, fearful eyes.
His tiny body trembled with each breath, and his scales seemed to quiver with anxiety.
My heart ached at the sight of my little one, so consumed by fear and worry.
I felt a surge of desperation, knowing I had to find a way to ease his fears, to comfort him before it was too late.
I lick Tharros silver scales to try and calm him down, but it didn't work.
Tharros's trembling grew more intense, his fearful eyes fixed on mine as he let out a distressed whimper.
My licking seemed to have little effect, and I could sense his anxiety and fear still simmering just below the surface.
Pov Tharros
Father's gentle licks on my silver scales felt nice, but they couldn't chase away the dark, scary thoughts swirling in my mind.
I whimpered, feeling my heart racing with fear. The image of Father's belly bursting open, releasing the terrifying Shadow Wings, was etched into my mind like a dark, twisted scar.
I nuzzled deeper into Father's scales, seeking comfort, but my eyes remained wide with fear, my senses on high alert, waiting for the worst to happen.
As I trembled with fear, I felt Father's warm breath on my scales, trying to soothe me. But my mind was consumed by the terrifying image of the Shadow Wings.
Suddenly, Father's body tensed, and he let out a low, pained hiss. I felt a strange, unsettling movement beneath his scales, like something was stirring, awakening.
The Shadow Wings.
They were kicking and squirming, pushing against Father's scales with their dark, twisted claws. I could see the outline of their claws, like sinister shadows, etched into Father's belly.
My eyes went wide with horror as Father's scales began to ripple and distort, but only slightly. The Shadow Wings were still contained, but their restless movements filled me with dread.
I felt a chill run down my spine as Father's voice whispered, his words barely audible, "They're...stirring."
I remembered Mother's words, echoing in my mind: "Only 69-105 days remaining before they emerge." It seemed like an eternity, yet the Shadow Wings were already showing signs of restlessness, eager to break free.
But it wasn't time yet. Father's body was still holding them back, keeping them contained. For now.
And with that, everything went black.