FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Buckner stood there looking at Pestilence with a certain amount of disgust on his face. In his short years, the Water Dragon never witnessed anything as foul or odious as this entity that hovered before him. Buckner was quite sure that if the smell of Pestilence didn't kill him, then the sight of the vagabond would.

"Perhaps he was right." _Buckner thought. _"Being this close to him is rather brave of me."

Suddenly, Pestilence let loose a blast of green mist that caused Buckner to back away.

"Run all you want, reptile. My poison mist will catch you in the end." Pestilence said in his high-pitchy voice that sent chills down Buckner's spine.

The mist was closing in fast, and Buckner quickly jumped off of his ice platform like that of a professional diver. He hit the water with grace and agility that was common to his race of Dragon.

Buckner floated in the space that was water as he thought about his next move. One thing that came to him was to stop the spread of that mist before it disrupted the ecosystem. However, did he dare use the water of the Great Ocean for such a problem?

Suddenly, his thoughts were cut by explosions going off around him as he quickly swam out of the way. Buckner figured he had no choice but to attempt to use ocean water to cleanse the air above him and hoped the salt would be enough. He started to swarm in a large circle so fast that he became almost invisible to the eye. His eyes glowed aquamarine and rose out of the ocean in a water funnel. The green mist swirled around the water as the air became cleaner by the minute and Pestilence let out an irritated laugh.

Pestilence shot a few more energy blasts into the massive water spout by raising his hand. Buckner went flying back into the water as the funnel abruptly splashed back into the ocean, and he felt utterly dazed. Buckner shook his head, trying to shake off the double vision, and felt a bit of nausea.

Finally, Buckner regained control of his senses and looked up at Pestilence; who was facing the other way? This almost seemed too easy as Buckner began Element Working the water again. Suddenly, a giant ice spike the size of a whale shot out of the water at an incredible speed.

Unfortunately, Pestilence was as quick as he was sticky, dodging the spike with steed and all. He disappeared altogether as Buckner was stunned and raised himself out of the ocean in a pillar of water. He quickly looked around but couldn't see Pestilence anywhere.

Suddenly, he appeared right in front of Buckner, who tried to raise his arms in defense, but too late. Pestilence blew a fine purple powder into Buckner's face, causing him to cough and hack as he backed away.

"What...What did you just do to me?" Buckner demanded and felt his body constrict. He grabbed his right arm and felt a numbing sensation going up, followed shortly after by pain.

"I have poisoned your body with a rather slow and cruel chemical of mine. It is of my own design and is particularly one of my favorite forms of killing someone. This poison causes the body to turn on itself using your immune system. I figure you have little less than ten minutes to live." Pestilence said with a broader grin.

"It'll be more than enough to defeat you, vile creature," Buckner said with all the strength and bravery he could bring forth. However, he felt the poison creep through his veins and knew that any extraneous amount of energy used would speed up the process. Buckner only had one conclusion to follow, and that was to finish this fight quickly. The trouble was better said than done.

Already, the poison had spread to his chest, and he was having difficulty breathing. Notwithstanding, Buckner thanked the heavens above for blessing him with such extraordinary parents. They, he knew, had him learn everything he needed to know to confront this being in front of him. The academy only polished up what his parents had already made. When Buckner looked back on it, he remembered a precious lesson that he will never forget.

It was a warm spring day, and Buckner had just turned eleven. He remembered waking up that morning to see his first birthday present sitting on the edge of the bed at his feet.

Buckner was surprised that he didn't kick it off while he slept because being still was not an ordinary event for him. He quickly snatched the brightly colored box of blue and gold wrapping paper with a silver bow sitting on top. He tore open the box and found a vial of silver liquid sitting inside as he stared at it in wonderment.

"What is this?" Buckner asked aloud and suddenly heard a voice from the door answer him:

"That is part of the mystery, my dear Buckner."

Buckner looked up to see his mother and father standing there at his bedroom door. As he looked toward his parents, he noticed the Water Region décor of blues, golds, and silvers. The bed he slept in was king-size with a watercolor quilt adorning the top of it. The quilt had a design of sea life underneath the Great Ocean.

Buckner's parents were already dressed and beamed at their son for the day. He was still in his pajamas of white with aquamarine trim on the cuffs and collar. He arose out of bed and asked, "What do you mean?"

"Today will be a learning day like any other; However, what you learn today will always help you in the future, and that is a gift that truly keeps on giving." Breeze said to his son.

Buckner nodded and smiled politely at his parents but thought, "Why does this happen on my birthday? Why can't they just give me one day where I can relax and not have to worry about doing something that, in their words, is going to make me smarter?"

Nevertheless, Buckner had this argument before with his parents and found himself losing the argument and grounded for a couple of days. He knew that Water Dragons took education seriously and shunned any willed ignorance.

With a steady sigh so that his parents wouldn't notice, Buckner resigned himself to the riddle that his parents put forth and tried to look on the bright side. At least he would try to have fun with this riddle as he did with so many of his other topics. Buckner did appreciate learning what his parents had to teach him, but a break now and again wouldn't hurt, would it? Besides, the sooner he figured out what the silver liquid was, the sooner he would be allowed to meet up with his friends.

"Alright, how do I begin?" Buckner asked as his parents gave him a mischievous look that he'd never seen before.

"That is where we come in." There was another voice behind the door as Raz, Maz, Kyle, and Rocky all filed into the room.

"Holy tide! What are you guys doing here?" Buckner exclaimed as Raz clapped him on the shoulder.

"You didn't think we would all celebrate our birthdays without you, did you?" Raz asked, pretending to look hurt.

"Oh, of course not. But--I still don't understand why you guys are here in my room in the Water Region." Buckner said and smiled with confusion etched on his face.

"Oh, well, your father and mother told us about a month in advance what they were planning. I am not at liberty to say any further other than it is a search for clues." Kyle said as Buckner looked at his parents, who were nodding.

"That's right, sweetheart, and your friends did a tremendous job hiding all eight clues to that silver liquid you have in your hands," Syron said as Buckner smiled wider.

_"Maybe this birthday won't be a complete bust after all. All of my friends are here, and they have helped my parents plant clues somewhere in the house, grounds, city? Come to think of it; I haven't really asked about that yet." _Buckner thought.

"Wait, where am I to start looking for these clues?" Buckner asked, looking between his parents and friends.

"Perhaps, Buckner, you should look at the bottom of your gift box." Breeze said.

Buckner snatched the box excitedly from his bed and looked to see a scrap of parchment sitting at the bottom, which read:

This

(Tavern)

Buckner turned over the piece of parchment to make sure that was the only information and looked up at his parents. He had a quizzical look because his father said, "We will leave you to get ready, and your friends will wait for you out on the front porch."

Everyone exited the bedroom, leaving Buckner alone as he sighed and thought, "Well, this birthday is starting to look a lot better."

Soon, Buckner was dressed entirely and met his friends out on the front porch. "There you are. We were wondering if you were going to take forever." Maz said as Buckner saw Rocky hand Kyle five gold coins. Rocky, clearly disappointed at losing a bet, slumped in the back of the group for a minute before joining them.

"So tell me, what other purposes besides keeping my company do you guys have for coming with me on this clue hunt?" Buckner asked.

"None, except we get to witness the use of your brain on a practical level," Kyle said with a smirk.

"That's not a good argument. You've had plenty of times to witness my brain on a practical level and have paid no attention." Buckner countered as Kyle held up a hand.

"You've just proved my point," Kyle said calmly as Buckner shook his head.

"Alright, let's get this clue hunt started," Buckner said, looking at the scrap of parchment. He muttered the words to himself and thought the next clue's location was conspicuous. Of course, it was in a tavern. However, there were five that he knew of, and Trident Rising was a massive place.

"Alright, let's go," Buckner said as they walked briskly down the stone lane towards the very heart of the city. The morning was still relatively early as the sky grew brighter with every step they took, and Buckner breathed in the ocean's salty air. This acted as a stimulant. If he wasn't awake before, he was now.

Buckner and his friends entered the city square that had barely begun to stir with Dragons. All who were either setting up shop or others hurrying their children off other places.

In the middle of the square sat a giant statue of the Arch Angel, Gabriel. The figure was over fifty feet tall as he was adorned in his angelic robes of white, matching perfectly with his golden hair. He held a trumpet in his right hand and pressed it to his lips while the other made a welcome gesture. This monument was presented to Trident Rising as a gift for their annual founding celebration by the rest of the regions of Dragos.

Like his fellow Water Dragons around him, Buckner delighted in the statue. However, he always had a humorous thought that the statue was smiling personally at him, but that could be his imagination.

They all stopped right under the arm of the statue, and Buckner said, "So, I know this thing said Tavern, but I only know of five located here in Trident Rising. There isn't any chance one of you could tell me which one, is there?"

"One of us could, but the rest don't have a clue other than the scrap of parchment you have. Besides, would it not be cheating if we told you straight out?' Raz said as Buckner reluctantly nodded.

"True. But you can't blame a guy for trying. Anyway, Seashell is the closest and just right around that corner." Buckner said as he pointed off towards the right.

As they looked, everyone couldn't help but notice the area looked a little run down and had the strong smell of fish. Buckner figured this was the fisher's market of the town because he traveled with one of his father's servants when he was very young. The servant told him to wait by the statue until he returned and went off towards the right.

However, the servant neglected to return for two hours, and when he did show up, he was carrying a bottle of Dragon's Ale along with a pound of fish that he was sent to get. Notwithstanding, he took so long that Syron had come looking for her son and saw Buckner standing right next to the statue, sighing in relief.

Buckner remembered her scalding him, to which he told Syron that the servant told him to wait here. Syron's anger grew to new heights that day, so it wasn't much of a surprise when she unleashed her fury on the intoxicated servant. The three words Buckner picked up from her rampage were Tavern, Seashell, and fish market.

Buckner only chuckled as he and his friends made their way down the rows of shabby but still cozy tiny houses, all thatched with yellow straw that was starting to turn gray. A long building with its windows lit and several little tables sitting out front sat on the left. A couple of Water Dragons were enjoying breakfast before heading off to work.

Buckner stood before the Tavern, looking a little nervous, and wished this was a school day. Then he wouldn't have to worry about this treasure hunt, but another part was loving this quest his parents sent him on. Buckner would let this adventurous side win most of the time, which was one of those times. Looking back at his friends, smiling and nodding in encouragement, Buckner walked into the Tavern with a sign above the door depicting a sea shell painted on it.

As soon as Buckner crossed the threshold, his senses were met by several different things. The first thing he noticed was the smell of breakfast mixed with the faint tang of beer along with coffee. Second, the sound of musicians playing over in a corner set upon a small stage. Finally, the scene before him was many patrons sitting at random tables, talking and laughing. The walls were all adorned with various kinds of seashells, and an area rug with a giant clamshell took up the central part of the room. Over to Buckner's right were stairs leading up to lodging and to his left sat a long dark wood bar, highly polished to a brilliant shine.

Several Dragons sat at this, too, while the counter workers served their breakfast and other more potent drinks. Each table had a lantern sitting on it and the glow from the fireplace sitting on the wall opposite the door. Two chairs sat in front of this, and Buckner noticed someone familiar sitting in one of them. However, before moving another step, a waitress gently tugged on his shirt, and Buckner turned his attention to her.

Apparently, she had been waiting there for a moment because of the annoyed look on her face and said, "What can I get for you?"

Buckner bowed his head and looked a little sheepish as he said, "I am terribly sorry. I didn't mean to ignore you. I will take five coffees to go, and I will also pay for the mugs."

"Sure, let me go ask Marcy first, though." The waitress said as she hurried away, and Buckner took the opportunity to walk over to the figure sitting in the chair. Buckner almost let out a yelp in surprise because the Dragon seated in this chair was none other than King Zallerferd.

Buckner made to bow, but King Zallerferd held up his hand and said, "Not here, Buckner. I would rather remain anonymous, so I have my hood up."

King Zallerferd said it so low that Buckner almost didn't catch it and wondered why he would hide in a place like this. However, he didn't have to wait long because the King extended his hand to Buckner, who took it. Instantly, he felt a scrap of paper between his hand and the King's. Buckner looked down at his hand and up at the King, who said, "Happy Birthday, young one."

Suddenly, King Zallerferd put a shawl over his face and walked out of the Tavern.

Buckner was left standing there for only a moment before the waitress returned smiling and said, "Marcy said it was alright by her. With the mugs and coffee, it comes to six gold coins."

"Ouch!" Buckner thought as he pulled out his coin pouch and paid the waitress who handed him the five mugs of steaming hot coffee.

Buckner thanked her and walked carefully out the door. He sat the five mugs down in front of them.

"Buckner, you didn't have to buy us coffee," Maz said with a chuckle.

"I know, but I wanted to. I figured we wouldn't be able to complete a quest if we were low on energy." Buckner said with a smile.

"In other words, you were nice to a waitress," Rocky said with a laugh of his own as Buckner looked indignant for a moment. Then he remembered the slip of paper in his hand. He quickly unfolded it and read aloud:

is

(Docks)

Buckner looked up from the scrap of parchment to his friends around him. It seemed that they had understood where the next clue was, but none of them knew the docks as he did. The docks were, by far, the busiest and most dangerous parts of Trident Rising; because of all the different types of Dragons one met could be described as not the friendliest of crowds. Buckner knew that any population as significant as this city would not all be good. However, most were, and he prayed silently that they wouldn't run into too much trouble.

"Alright, guys. Let's head to the docks." Buckner said as the group continued down the cobblestone lane towards the docks.

The walk took them about fifteen minutes to traverse, give or take a minute. While doing so, Buckner thought back to the Tavern where King Zallerferd had been sitting in the chair waiting for him. No, something didn't seem right with that conclusion. Why would King Zallerferd risk his own personal safety just to help in a treasure hunt? What could he possibly have gained from being in that exact Tavern in the lower part of town? The answer was nothing, except that perhaps he had already been in Trident Rising, visiting his parents early this morning. That could be part of it, but Buckner still couldn't explain why King Zallerferd was in that particular Tavern.

Buckner's thoughts were interrupted by Kyle behind him gasping at the towering masses from the clipper ships coming into port. "Wow, they're amazing!"

Buckner saw these so many times that he'd forgotten that none of his friends were used to them. Or of the danger. "Be careful, guys; we're heading into the roughest part of town." He warned.

"What do you mean?" Raz asked with a sideways glance at Buckner.

"I mean that the docks are the busiest part of our city's industry, and it is possible to get hurt or killed by a falling crate."

"Oh, well, if that's all...." Raz began to say, but Buckner quickly cut him off.

"No, that's not all. Some of the Dragons you will see down there are as rough and mean as they come. It is straightforward for one to get killed just crossing in front of one of them." Buckner said this revelation sank hard into the rest of the group.

Buckner's maw cracked into a broad smile, and his eyes lit up with humor as he said, "Don't worry too much over the matter. In over three years, no one has been stabbed because most are hard-working individuals who probably drink too much, anyway."

The others looked relieved by this bit of information and followed Buckner as he led them out of the row of houses. There before them, the extensive docks sat in all their glory. Excluding the clipper ships, several hundred fishing boats were ready to set sail in various sizes. Everywhere along the docks, crates were being loaded and unloaded by dockworkers along with ship hands. This was one of the busiest times of day for the shipyard, and Buckner swore under his breath.

"Stay close, everyone," Buckner said as they worked their way through the ever-busy crowd.

It was astounding the amount of collisions Buckner, himself, had. Let alone his friends. It was challenging with them being half the size of the adults. Buckner had half a thought that finding the next clue in this mess would present more of a challenge. How could it get any worse?

Then, as if someone had read his mind, someone stepped out of the crowd, and Buckner collided with him. He quickly apologized before trying to walk by but felt a huge hand land on his shoulder and grab hold, causing his blue shirt to rip a little. As Buckner turned, he found himself standing only to the hip of the massive Terrain Dragon and looked up into his scowling face.

"You oughtta watch were ya ar' goin'!" He said in a rough voice as Buckner looked terrified.

"You are absolutely right, which is why I apologized to you," Buckner chirped, trying to defuse the situation. However, he couldn't shake the feeling he had met this Dragon before. But, this Terrain Dragon was not in a friendly mood as he picked up Buckner by the back of the neck.

"Hey! Back off!" Raz shouted as the Terrain Dragon smacked them with one hand, sending them flying into a stack of crates.

Buckner saw this and had enough of this brute as he sprayed boiling water into his face. The Terrain Dragon let out a yelp of pain and quickly dropped Buckner to the ground. The crowd had suddenly spread out into a circle as they watched with curiosity.

Buckner quickly struck at the side of the right knee cap as hard as he could, but his fist met a solid wall. His hand exploded with pain as he grunted and looked up at the face of this Terrain Dragon, seeing the blistering scar over his left eye.

Buckner ducked under a swing as he sprayed out more water and began Element working it into a giant fist of water and ice. He put everything into the fist as it hit the Terrain Dragon so hard that it sounded like cannon fire. The Terrain Dragon flew back into a stack of barrows as the crowd cheered.

Raz, Maz, Rocky, and Kyle walked up beside Buckner, looking alright except for a couple of bruises. The Terrain slowly got back to his feet and was smiling.

"I haven't been hit like that in ages. Well done, Buckner." The Terrain said as Buckner looked perplexed. How did this Terrain know his name?

The other thing he noticed was the accent changed, as well. Before, it was sort of untrained, and Buckner, honestly, though he was just another ship hand. However, this fellow was speaking with a well-refined dialogue. Then the realization hit him hard.

"I know who you are. You're Montgomery Rockwall, Lieutenant General and second in command of the Supreme Region Army." Buckner said with a smile.

"Guilty as charged." Lt. Rockwall said.

"You could've been a little less aggressive with that backhand," Rocky said as he adjusted his shirt.

"You know I had to be convincing. Otherwise, Buckner would have found me out almost instantly. You have a brain on you, lad; don't forget that." Lt. Rockwall said with a chuckle of his own.

"Thank you, and my mind concludes that you have the next clue in this treasure hunt?" Buckner announced with more of a statement than a question.

"Indeed, I do. Hold on." Lt. Rockwall said as he dug into the lining of his belt and pulled out a scrap of parchment from behind the emerald belt buckle, handing it to Buckner.

Buckner quickly unfolded the parchment and read aloud:

A

(Institute)

"What does that mean, Buckner?" Raz asked as Buckner looked at him.

"It means the Gabriel Institute of Knowledge and Philosophy. It's on the other end of Trident Rising and will take us about two hours to walk there." Buckner said with a slight bit of resentment, but the journey so far had been a great one.

The G.I.K.P. was one of the most prestigious institutions for learning, apart from Michael's Institute in the Supreme Region. Buckner reasoned the next clue might involve something to do with the Institute and its history.

"Well, I must return to my duties in the Supreme Region. Happy Birthday, Buckner, and to you all." Lt. Rockwall said as they said farewell, and he disappeared back into the now busy crowd.

"Shall we get going, then?" Buckner said as the others nodded and followed him back the way they came.

A couple of hours later, they stood in front of the Institute that looked like the Greek Pantheon from Earth with a few exceptions. One of these differences was instead of being white; it was the color of the ocean of a deep sapphire blue. The columns, however, were the color of sand that accented the primary color of the building. On the top of the building near the front sat a miniature version of the statue of Gabriel. He was holding a trumpet to his lips as if sounding out a grand entrance of someone important.

The grounds were all well maintained. The grass was cut short, walkways were cleaned off, and several benches around the campus. Buckner noticed the walkways converged around a marvelous water fountain of turquoise topaz. In addition, it had cravings along the face of the building of Trident Rising with an inscription at the base that reads:

INTELLIGENCE WITH COMPASSION IS WISDOM!

The other four couldn't help but stare at this Institute that sat before them, and Buckner stifled a chuckle. He'd been here so often with his father that seeing it again was equally the same as walking into his bedroom. However, seeing this through his friend's eyes was a rare treat, and he would monitor the situation.

"Holy Dragos, Buckner! I had no idea that this was here." Raz said with aw.

"You should've. It was on the first exam in our history class this year." Buckner commented as Raz thought for a moment.

"Oh, wait! You're right. I thought I recognized the Angel standing on the roof-top. Gabriel, right?"

"That's correct, and do you remember why Water Dragon chose Gabriel as our symbol?" Buckner encouraged.

"Well, Gabriel was a herald and a messenger of the Arch Angels. Moreover, he was also charged with learning." Raz said proudly.

"Correct, which is why we Water Dragons favor him a bit more. Not that Michael has nothing to do with learning or teaching, be we feel we owe Gabriel for giving us our need to learn." Buckner mused as he clapped Raz on the shoulder. "Come on, our clue waits inside, I expect."

They all walked up to the brass doors and noticed a few Dragons about the campus, studying under trees or on benches. The building was massive as it easily towered over them. Buckner turned the handle and pushed the door open. Once inside, Buckner had to stop to appreciate the elaborate artwork painted on walls and the reliefs that went along with them.

The paintings depict the evolution of Water Dragons and every race of dragons that lived upon the face of Dragos. Buckner had been amazed by all the depictions and noticed a couple of races that were no longer around today. When he'd asked his father what happened to them, Breeze said that they disappeared a long time ago and didn't give any further explanation. According to history scrolls, Buckner found out there were Dark and Light Dragons. Both lived in harmony with each other but always had very different views about life. However, Buckner was brought out of his reverie by the sound of footfalls coming from a hallway to their right.

He immediately recognized the Water Dragoness that came towards them at a crisp pace. Her back was as straight as a board as she smiled like a teacher having pride in one of her students for getting top marks. Her blonde hair stood out against the dark blue scales of her back and white for the front, matching her icy blue eyes. The long flowing dress she wore was an aquamarine with white on the edges of the fabric and loosely hung down to her ankles. Her feet were adorned with sand-colored sandals that were secured tightly around the top of the feet. Finally, Buckner noticed the golden seashell necklace she wore around her neck and exhibited an air of educated seniority.

She stopped before them as Buckner bowed his head, and the others followed suit. "Head Mistress, a pleasure to see you," Buckner said.

"Indeed, and yet, I wonder if you say pleasure out of politeness for me or if you do enjoy my company." She said in a very sharp and crisp manner.

"That is an interesting argument, but could it also be argued that both are equally true at the same time?" Buckner countered.

The Head Mistress beamed at him and said, "Indeed, it can. You have your mother's mind, I see. However, you forget formalities, young one, regarding your companions."

"Exceedingly! Mistress Oceana, these are my good friends: Rocky Earthbound, Kyle Whirlwind, Mazial Drakken, and Razial Drakken. Everyone, this is Mistress Oceana. She runs the Institute here and has taught both of my parents." Buckner said as Oceana shook hands with them all, stopping for a moment at Razial.

"So, you are the next to become King. I hope you are studying well," she said as Raz couldn't but feel a smile creep across his face.

"I have top marks in everything with the help of Buckner," Raz said as Buckner blushed a little.

"He already knew the information; all he needed was a little tutoring to get the dates right," Buckner said as Mistress Oceana cocked her head.

"Unequivocally!" Oceana said as she turned towards Buckner. "I realize the reason you are here, and to secure the next clue, you'll have to answer a question of mine. And mind you, it will be quite difficult in that a single answer will not do."

Buckner looked a little nervous because his father had told him stories about how hard her questions could be and that sometimes there seemed to be no correct answer. However, he smiled at her and said, "Please, ask your question."

She nodded and asked, "What is the meaning of existence, and how do you fit into that existence?"

Buckner's heart dropped, and he knew his father had been right about her. However, he couldn't just give up, so he sat there for the longest time and went over all the possibilities it could be. For a moment, nothing came to mind, but as he began to think about everything that happened so far in his life and the way he lived it; clarity came over his mind as he looked up at the Head Mistress and said, "It would seem that the meaning of existence is just that root word means, to exist in this time and space. However, it goes deeper than just simply existing. It's about living life to the fullest potential that one can and learning from their mistakes along the way.

"I fit into existence by refusing to be stagnant or just being. I, if anything, stand out in existence because I endeavor to live my life to the fullest. That is how I define my existence."

Oceana thought this over, apparently weighing each part of the argument. Finally, she concluded, "So, according to you, existence is living life to its fullest potential, and I'm assuming you mean anything that will constitute positives in your life. Also, I find your argument about living outside of mere existence makes you sound as if you are doing everything you can to go a step above everyone else. All your arguments, although relatively simple, are solid. Full marks."

Buckner's friends cheered as they clapped him on the shoulders, and embarrassment crept across his face. Not because of anything negative, but because his parents or other Water Dragons never were overly excited when he answered correctly. Indeed, they did reward him for such things, but the greatest reward or birthday present Buckner could receive was the cheers of his friends.

"Yes, you have done well, and now for your reward," Oceana said as she pulled a slip of parchment from her hair and handed it to him.

"Thank you," Buckner said as Oceana beamed at him.

"You have a bright future, young one. When you have completed Michael's Academy, please consider coming here to finish refining your mind." Oceana said with a certain amount of pride and inclined her head before turning on her heel and walking back the way she came.

Buckner and his friends filed out of the hall to the mid-morning suns as a large bell rang from somewhere deep inside the Institute, signaling the ending and beginning of classes. Buckner couldn't help but appreciate the sound. However, his attention was drawn back to the scrap of parchment in his hand, and he opened it, reading aloud:

Vial

(Library)

Buckner looked at this for a moment and then looked to his friends with understanding. "Well, let's go to the library."

However, something was weird about their destination and the question burned at Buckner like a hot iron to flesh. Why would his parents send him to the library when he'd already passed a knowledge test? It seemed to be outside the scope of this original assumption, and he wondered if his train of thought could be wrong. Nevertheless, Buckner was sure his first line of thinking was correct, showing how he missed something critical, but he would have to go to the library to find out.

Buckner sighed because he knew that the walk to the library would take them thirty minutes or so. But, to his surprise, they were making good time on this hunt for clues.

"Buckner, do you think there might be more to the last part of the message on that last piece of parchment?" Raz asked.

Buckner found it odd that Raz would ask such a question when the four of them were part of the team hiding these clues. "I thought you would know what the clues mean already. Seeing as you guys helped in hiding them." Buckner said sardonically.

"True, we did have a hand in it, but we were forbidden to look at the scraps of parchment lest you simply ask one of us. We would be all too eager to help you." Kyle said as Buckner nodded. It did make sense, but of all the other times they had broken the rules, why was it now that they decided to obey?

Buckner could only speculate and didn't want to interrogate his friends any more than he had. After all, they did come all this way to spend time with him in this treasure hunt. It was even possible that this hunt for clues was also meant for them.

Thirty minutes' walk found Buckner and his friends standing in front of the massive Library of Trident Rising. Though the building was slightly smaller than the Institute, it still towered over the young Dragons. The building was just as impressive as the previous one and had the same design, except for the tower rising out of its center. A weird device was protruding from the roof of the building. Buckner remembered vaguely what it was for and still found it hard to believe you could see other--what were they again, oh yes--planets. Of course, Buckner was never allowed up there, so he couldn't necessarily dispute the claim. Moreover, his curiosity tingled to see if he could spot these other "planets" himself.

As he looked towards the other parts of the building, the architecture stood out in the form of relief angels painted and depicted them reading scrolls, books, and sheets of parchment. There was an overhang with substantial white pillars holding up the burden of the excessive weight. The lawns were neatly kept along with the cobbled walkways. In the mid-morning suns, it looked pretty majestic.

Buckner and his friends started to make their way up the path when an old Dragoness walked out of the library. Typically, Buckner wouldn't have noticed her, except she looked to be struggling under the weight of all the scrolls. She started topple over; Buckner rushed forward and his company just as the scrolls flew. They were able to catch her, but the scrolls hit the ground with several distant thuds. Her grey hair was lightly disheveled with her spectacles askew as her aquamarine, almost turquoise-colored back scales gleamed with sweat. Her front scales were the color of sand and ran from her lower jaw down into her silvery blouse. Around her neck was a golden starfish no bigger than a gold coin as her black dress went down to the middle of her calves. A blue belt was fastened at her waist as her tail swished mindlessly, and her wings were tucked to her back.

Her eyes flashed with anger once she was able to correct her posture and scalded, "You good for nothing, kids. Why did you save me? Why didn't you save the scrolls? They are more important than my sorry old bones. Why?"

"Well, that's gratitude for you," Maz said as Buckner shot him a dark look and turned his attention to the lady.

"I understand how important history is, mam, but I must disagree with you. Not only do I think, but I know your life or any life is worth more than those history scrolls." Buckner said as the lady looked taken aback.

"What in God's name makes you say that, young one?" She asked as Buckner smiled.

"Because one's history can be replaced. Not only does this library hold those scrolls," he gestures to the scrolls on the ground. "but all five regions have the same scrolls. And, even if all the scrolls of this world were destroyed, you would still have the ones who memorized every word by heart. No, life is way too important to take history over it simply. After all, we create history every day." Buckner said as the lady smiled at him.

"Well-argued, young one and your compassion are great. Here is your reward." She said as she reached into her belt and produced a tiny scape of paper to which Buckner took it gracefully.

His companions had gathered up her scrolls and handed them back to her, surprised by her sudden strength and nimbleness. She inclined her head and bid them farewell as she hurried down the lane. Buckner quickly opened the scrap of parchment and read aloud:

Of

(Capital)

"Capital? Does that refer to the administration building of the Governor's complex?" Rocky asked as Buckner nodded.

"It would seem so. It could just be the complex in its entirety, but we are one step closer." Buckner said in delight.

The complex was another thirty minutes walk, and Buckner couldn't help but wonder how all these clues fit together. He was sure it had more to do with the journey than with the vial in his side pouch. Still, he enjoyed the challenge that came with this journey and made it even more enjoyable with the presence of his friends.

Soon, they were standing in front of the Governor's Complex, which looked more like a palace. Several hundred Dragons were coming and going with their respective business, most being Dragons from other regions. The walls were made from an alabaster stone with gold trim along the edges. They loomed over the young Dragons at almost two hundred feet. Buckner gulped because even though he'd been here before, it still, to this day, intimidated him. He could sense the similar emotions coming from his friends as they walked up to the massive golden gates that sparkled in the sunlight.

At first, Buckner wasn't sure where to step because the numerous Dragons made it almost impossible to pass without standing on their feet. Or, as he reflected painfully, having his stepped on. However, a government worker strolled out of the crowd to their relief and greeted them with a bow.

"Young ones. If you come this way, I shall bring you to the next clue." He said as Buckner and his friends quickly exchanged looks of curiosity. Then Buckner shrugged as they exchanged smiles and followed the servant in.

They could tell this Water Dragon was apprehensive, and Buckner wondered why. It didn't seem to be nervous about anything, and the only thing Buckner could figure was that the servant felt responsible for not only one Governor's son but five.

Buckner's thoughts were interrupted by the opening of the cedar door in front of them, leading them into the complex. Inside, they all gasped at the sheer space of the courtyard, let alone the building in it. It was massive, too, and Buckner knew that the whole capital complex was an area of two and a half miles. The courtyard took up two-thirds of that area, with two cobblestone walkways intersecting to form a cross. This left four square regions of the lawn while two figures were locked in combat in the middle of this cross path. The inscription on the base of the statue read:

KEEP YOUR SWORD SHARP. KEEP YOUR MIND SHARPER.

They were walking along the left side of the courtyard under an overhang held up by pillars and words written on the wall beside them of encouragement. Buckner always liked this wall because it made him feel good about himself and suspected that was why anyone who read it could feel better.

The servant abruptly turned into a door on his left, causing Buckner to walk almost past him.

"This way, Master Stillwater." He encouraged, and they all were led into a highly decorated, smaller chamber with large windows to let in ample sunshine. Again, the exact depictions on the walls of the entrance hall of the Institute were here, as well. Everyone, including Buckner and excluding the worker, looked at the incredible sight, letting gasps escape from them.

"Your attention, please," the worker said as his white linen clothing showed brightly in the illumination pouring through the windows. Everyone turned their attention to the worker as he smiled and continued. "Thank you. My name is Lymph Riptide, and here shall your challenge be. Soon, you will discover a new kind of pressure or stress as you try to handle a situation that the Governor handles daily. Fear not, for this is only an examination of your skills thus far. Do you understand?"

Lymph looked at all five of the young Dragons as they vigorously nodded their heads. Lymph smiled and said, "Alright, please wait here for a moment while I go get your test."

Lymph walked out of the room, and Buckner quickly rounded on Raz. "This was your idea, wasn't it?"

"Is it that obvious? I figured I would share a bit of what I learned from the King with you guys. Especially if you all are chosen to be governors." Raz said as Buckner looked a little indignant but thought it might be a good exercise.

Footfalls sounded in the distance to indicate that Lymph had returned and was holding what looked like a scroll in one hand, ink well in the other. He smiled brightly at them and halted right in front as he said, "Now, the scroll I'm about to hand you deals with the fishing port regulations. It will be your job to look over the new proposals and to determine if it is a worthy document or not. I will give you fifteen minutes to deliberate." He produced an hourglass of white sand and sat it on the black marble floor in front of them. "You may begin, now."

He handed them the scroll and ink well as he stood off to one side. Buckner and his friends gathered around the scroll as he unrolled it. The document was rather curious as it proposed that the number of fishing boats be increased to ten extra hands. The justification for this is because the fishers believe it would help speed up the process of hauling fish for the market, who, in turn, pay taxes to the government. Not only that, but it put more coins into the commerce's pockets.

Buckner finished reading the document and thought on this for a moment. Putting more money into the local economy was a good idea, but increasing the boat capacity by ten would probably endanger the lives of all the crew members. From reading a history scroll, Buckner remembered that once, the regulation was left up to the fishers as to how many they could have on their boats. However, one boat was overloaded with too many hands and crashed into hidden rocks. As a result, several were injured, and a couple even died in that unfortunate accident. This was the reason the regulations were put into law in the first place. On the other hand, more money coming into the city would help pay for the operations of everyday life.

They sat there and debated over this scroll for what seemed like an eternity. Buckner figured out that five extra hands upon the boats wouldn't compromise the safety of the crew or ship. As Buckner signed the document, everyone agreed as the last grains of sand poured out.

Lymph strode forward with a smile on his maw and said, "Well, done. Now, let's see what you have proposed."

He held out his hand while Buckner gave the scroll back. Lymph read over the document with concentration spread across his face and soon was replaced with satisfaction. He looked up from the paper and said, "Well, done, indeed. I like the proposal, and I sincerely think your father will be proud of you when he reads this idea. Not only just you but to all your friends, as well."

Everyone cheered and clapped Buckner on the shoulders. Lymph raised his hands to grab their attention.

"Yes, yes. Very good. Now, for your reward Master Stillwater." Lymph said as he pulled out a scrap of parchment from his belt and handed it to Buckner. Lymph bowed and said, "Good day." Leaving them to stand alone in the hall.

Buckner quickly opened the scrap of parchment and read aloud:

All

(Back of Estate)

Buckner was finally starting to put the clues together and had a hunch about the silver liquid. However, he needed to collect the following two clues to confirm his theory. He looked up from the scrap of parchment to his friends and said, "Alright, time to head home."

The Estate was about thirty minutes or so from the capital complex. Buckner was glad to have spent his birthday--well, their birthday, hunting for clues. So far, it didn't turn out as bad as Buckner might've imagined, and it didn't take them that long to collect most of the clues. It was just about mid-day when they arrived back at the Estate and were proceeding to search the backyard.

The back of the Estate was just as beautiful as the front. The lawns were neatly kept with the same cobblestone walkways that traveled everywhere on the grounds. A very spacious patio tiled with polished sandstone and several lawn furniture pieces was attached to the house. This patio was elevated and proceeded to ground level to a massive swimming pool. Several benches sat every few feet from each other along the paths, and between these were statues of different angels posed in various activities.

Buckner was so busy looking around the grounds that he almost missed the scrap of parchment, ever so slightly, sticking out of the book of one Angel. He yelled for the other to join him and quickly ran over to the Angel. To his surprise, this scrap of parchment was quite a bit bigger than the rest. Buckner promptly opened it and read aloud:

Your journey is almost at an end,

But the lesson learned is your friend,

Bear in mind that the greatest gift of all,

Is wisdom, Intellect, and love for all,

Son, it's time for you to take the next step,

Son, it is time you wake and be kept,

Happy Birthday, Buckner.

Healing

(Sitting Room)

Buckner beamed at his friends and said, "One more clue, everyone and I have a theory about what this silver liquid is."

Everyone was smiling as they all ran towards the manor and entered the kitchen. Buckner saw that the kitchen was very spacious with hired workers cooking what he suspected to be lunch. However, his mind was not on food now; he was more concerned with getting to the sitting room.

Buckner and his friends ran down the hallway, rounding the corner of a doorway, finding his parents beaming at him.

"Ah, Buckner! Just in time for your last clue and for lunch. Though, it looks like you might've figured it out already." Breeze Stillwater said as Buckner nodded.

"Indeed, it is, father. I hazard the hypothesis that the silver liquid is none other than All-Healing Potion." Buckner said proudly as the other four gasped.

All-Healing Potion was extremely rare and very difficult to make. Buckner knew that if one single ingredient was off with the mixture, the results could be fatal. Knowing that fact about the potion alone was enough for Buckner to appreciate the gift his parents gave him, but coupled with the fact that someone took the time to make it was beyond words. These kinds of potions were not made in bulk because the ingredients themselves were hard to procure.

"That's correct! An extraordinary gift and one not to be taken lightly. The reason we had you go on the search for clues was to demonstrate to us how far you've come in your training. I am happy to say you have come further than any of us hoped you would, and we were right to hand you that potion as a gift." Syron said as cheers went up around the room.

Buckner smiled a bit as his reflection turned him back to the present and to this horseman in front of him. Slowly, he felt the poison creeping through his body and wondered if the All-Healing Potion would work. Not that he had much choice in the matter, because it was either let the poison take hold and kill him or take the potion for a fifty-fifty chance that it would work.

Quickly, Buckner shot up a wall of water and froze it while he took out the vial of All-Healing Potion. He opened the bottle and drank it just as Pestilence blasted the wall, effortlessly. He charged at Buckner with great speed. Buckner let himself fall from the pillar of water to avoid the attack. At this moment, Buckner realized that the crawling pain had stopped and figured the potion must be doing the trick. However, the poison still left him incredibly weakened, and he knew he would have to end this fight soon.

Suddenly, Pestilence appeared before him underwater and, before Buckner could react, blasted him with an energy ball. Buckner screamed out in pain as his armor took most of the damage. However, some of that blast made it through his breastplate as it disintegrated, leaving his chest bare and burned from demonic energy.

If Buckner's energy was running low before, it was doubly so now, and Pestilence wasn't about to let upon him. Once again, he was in Buckner's face, but this time Buckner was ready for him. He quickly froze the water around Pestilence: knowing that it would only stall him for a moment, but that would be enough.

Buckner closed his eyes, and for the most extended moment, everything seemed to be still. The ice that surrounded Pestilence started to crack and blasted apart as he charged at Buckner. In a flash, a blue streak of light arched up so fast that Pestilence didn't see it until it was too late. It cut into his armor and up across his face as he screamed out his pain.

Black blood mixed with the saltwater as Pestilence flew out of the water quickly.

Buckner followed him and rose upon a pillar of water once again, holding a black ice trident radiating with a blue aura. Water streamed around it in ribbons, and Buckner's whole body glowed the same aura.

"Now, is it you who understands? Never underestimate your opponent, or it will cost you your life." Buckner said powerfully.

Pestilence grunted with anger, and the little voice he once had was no longer there. He pointed his two swords at Buckner, shouting, "FOOLISH REPTILE! I AM FAR STRONGER THAN YOU. I'LL SHOW YOU!"

Pestilence started to glow a pale green aura as he charged with his swords. Buckner wasn't sure if he had enough energy to combat what Pestilence was about to dish out. His energy was already strained with the use of his Trident, drawing power from his life force now. However, Buckner would be damned if he'd let this horseman get the better of him. He swung his Trident around and put every last ounce of energy into the blast. Pestilence let his swords fly as the two energies collided in the middle. Each opponent struggling to push the other back on them. Buckner struggled as veins bulged out in random places and blood trickled out of his nostrils.

"No! I will not let my people die." He thought and shouted, "I WILL NOT!"

Suddenly, Buckner's energy blast erupted with greater intensity as he pushed with every fiber of his body, mind, and soul. Pestilence started screaming as the blast overtook him and was turned to ash.

Buckner let the Trident dissolve as he panted and felt himself fall into the water. Deeper and deeper into the blue Buckner went as his mind whirled out of space and time.