Dragons & Angels

Mavrid’s mind floated through the depths of space and time. He did not know where he was or much less, who he was. At times, flashes came to him; snippets of a life far away. All he could remember was light; a bright, distant light. And then there was a bird. Its body was covered in fire, yet it did not burn. It stood in front of him, waiting for something, looking Mavrid in the eyes. Everything else around them was covered in darkness.

“Where am I?” Mavrid asked.

You are where you supposed to be, the bird replied in a wordless voice.

“I don’t know who I am,” Mavrid said, shaking his head.

You are a master of the Flame, the one who must fulfill his destiny.

“What is my destiny?”

You must release me.

Mavrid was puzzled. He did not know what to think. Something didn’t feel right.

“I don’t even know what you are. How would I be able to rescue you?” Mavrid questioned. The bird continued to stare at him with its crimson eyes.

I am a force that has been locked away from the world for countless lifetimes. I am in the blood of those who control the Flame. I am in your blood.

“I’m still lost,” Mavrid replied.

I will explain, the bird thought. Those who feared the power of the fire locked me away from this world. Long have I stayed hidden from the realm of men in a dark tower, immobilized by the forces that bind me. I have watched the strength of the Fire Readers dwindle down to a fine trickle. I have also watched as the shackles that hold me rust and weaken over time and neglect. Those who wished to imprison my soul for eternity have forgotten that I even exist. They think that I no longer need to be watched, that there are none left to free me. They were right… until you.

“Me?” Mavrid asked quietly.

You hold the power to free me and free yourself. It is your destiny to release my spirit and in little time, call a massive army under your wing to rule the land we rightfully deserve.

Mavrid thought about it for a moment. He did not know whether to believe this bird or not. He could be telling the truth, yet it seemed that there was more behind this story. He couldn’t place it, yet there was something that just didn’t fit.

You seem to hold some doubt, the bird stated. Let me clear that from your mind. Touch my wing.

Slowly, Mavrid extended his hand until it hovered over the bird’s body. He could just feel the power radiating from the fire. He lowered his hand so that it rested on the smooth feathers of the bird. Suddenly, a tremendous power filled him. Fire exploded from his skin, yet it did not burn. No, he was able to control this fire, and an impulsive understanding filled him.

Now you see what you must do? the bird asked.

“Yes,” Mavrid whispered in awe.

Good. You shall leave for Highentower immediately. My power is weak, so I shall be unable to guide you as closely as you would like. Yet I have faith that you will make it. Do not forget what this true power feels like, for you shall experience again it soon enough.