Dragon Realm Cypress

“They wish to unlock the gateway between the Mortal Realm and the Heavens?” Andros paced back and forth as he read Avalon’s report back at the old Ruen’s abbey. The aging man's face dropped into concern. “This is most troubling, Silver Wing. What is this cult? What do they hope to gain?”

“I swear to you we shall find that out, my Gold Wing,” said Avalon. She tightened her fist hanging on her words. Swearing upon her soul to stop this mysterious organization.

Andros stepped closer to Avalon. He looked with curiosity into her eyes. “You seem different, Silver Wing,” he said, “Your irises seem brighter than usual, they actually shine like emeralds… fascinating. Tell me, what else happened during your battle?”

Avalon looked to her hilt and pulled out her sword. She held the blade flat across her hands.

She stared into the steel, but instead of seeing her reflection, she saw only descending feathers.

Like cherry blossoms in the summer breeze.

“I don’t really recall what happened. When I thought all was lost... I felt Jedeo’s presence,” Avalon whispered, “I felt her touch me, giving me a sliver of her power. Long wings grew from my back. It was like a warm bath. Soothing. Calming.” She shook her head in confusion. “I am sorry, that is the best I can explain it.”

Andros nodded. “I do not pretend to know the will of the gods, but I think Jedeo gifted you the power of a White Angel.”

Avalon thought back to the passage.

And upon the fields of battle

When all hope seemed lost

She grew her wings of Red

And her Chosen, wings so White.

“But what does this mean, my Gold Wing?”

Andros rested his hands on Avalon’s shoulders. “Only time will tell, Silver Wing.”

Avalon frowned.

“In any case,” Andros spoke up again, “I wish for you to continue your training, alongside Vada, in Jedeoheim. If you were selected to become a White Angel, your services will be better appreciated at the high cathedral.”

Avalon’s eyes widened in surprise. “But what of my Silent Ones and my teachings.” “Where better to recruit than the Blade Range?” Andros lifted his chin, “I still question your

methods, but I don’t question your results. I will personally see that you are able to continue your project.”

“I-I don’t know what to say,” Avalon stammered, “Thank you!”

“You earned it, Silver Wing Avalon.”

***

Avalon found Vada still sleeping in her bed within their dormitory. It was a testament to Vada's meditation proficiency that not even the tolling of the bells could wake her.

Avalon smiled at her peaceful Blade Sister, tenderly pulling a stand of her hair away from her face. She sat just at the edge of Vada's bed and waited for her to come awake.

Vada opened her eyes only now piecing together that Avalon had returned. “Y-you're here.

You're really home?” Vada propped herself up and grabbed her Blade Sister in a tight hug.

“I've missed you so much, Vada,” said Avalon. “I'm ready to talk, to open up. I've taken you for granted. You've always been there for me and-”

“Tell me what happened in Scorch!” Vada blurted out.

They both laughed and blushed. Avalon returned Vada’s hug. She took a hold of Vada’s hand and squeezed it. She released a wide smile, slightly blushing. “There will be time for that. Time for... everything.”

Vada grinned and cuffed her fist gently under Avalon's jaw, “And I missed sparring with you.”

“Do you think it’s wrong that we communicate best when fighting each other?” chuckled Avalon as she pushed Vada back.

“For most couples, perhaps. But we are Rabbits,” Vada responded, tugging Avalon's coat to nuzzle Avalon’s forehead.

Avalon reached for Vada's sword and placed it in her arms. “Then I've missed our talks. Let's catch up.”

EPILOGUE

Dragon Realm Cypress

Inle sat on the ledge of Lost Dawn's tall clock tower. The morning sky rippled with the horizon in a breathtaking array of colors. He turned to a shadow portal opening to his side.

“Come to scold me for skipping out in our lessons again?” he asked the yikahti that materialized from the portal.

The Collector unbuckled his belt and let his swords drop from his waist. He nudged Inle over to make room as he plopped down next to his partner. “You are a full member of the council now. You may do as you please.”

Inle hid his smile. “Uther was killed breaking the seal. You wouldn't call that mission a disaster?”

“I would call it a necessary sacrifice,” said the Collector. He leaned back, awed by the sunset. “The seal was broken, and you showed your enemies how powerful you've become. A victory in my eyes and his as well.”

His. He spoke of Wraslyn.

“Elucard’s red rabbits infiltrated us. Now all of Long Whisper and, I would assume, the rest of Cypress will learn of Dead of Winter. We will be exposed eventually.”

The Collector slapped his claw on Inle's back and laughed. “Every child knows they cannot touch their shadow.”

Inle paused in thought, before nodding.

“Come, Silent Master, there is still much work to do.”