《Regulated Origin of Almighty Revolution》


 [1] Divided theyll kneel

    Far past where even the strongest or bravest mortals dare tread a ways east of Ganbatte, hidden away from the most intricate maps, rests a highly volatile den. In this den lies the purest forms of elemental energies, as this den is the residence of the 12 dragon gods that had forged this realm where they gathered to rest and discuss amongst themselves and bear their very souls to their fellow gods. The one place where they were all equal, where their domains melded, clashed, and intertwined. Within this massive primordial cradle was where each of the 12 was born and granted their domain over the elements, the fabric of the world, and the inhabitants within.


    [Pantheon''s Heart]


    One after another, the 12 dragons gathered within the Pantheon''s Heart, the grand primordial chasm of the world that held them all together. Their bodies shifted and morphed from their respective elemental corners of their designated meeting space into their proper forms. They stood proud, wrapping their bodies around and getting comfortable and regarding each other with the respect and recognition that a fellow god should bear.


    The final dragon to arrive was the dragon god of time, Long, who scanned the room with his talons and wings to confirm their siblings were all present. Everyone was present and prepared, the tension palpable as they awaited their eldest sibling to begin. Many discussions needed to be brought to their metaphorical table, and much work needed to be addressed.


    "If I¡¯m not mistaken, are we all in attendance?" Long asked, hoping for verbal confirmation that his 11 siblings were present. His senses were sharp enough, and he felt 11 different textures of scales and or fur, but the possibility that some had not yet arrived was still present with how flaky some were. Even if the timeline he was ''seeing'' in his mind''s eye showed that they were indeed present.


    "Yes, Long, we¡¯ve awaited your presence for some time, as we always do" Bahamut, the Dragon of Darkness, confirmed, his deep voice gentle yet foreboding as the darkness of his domain coiled around him, a black mass of scales as dark as obsidian, and no less sharp. "The matters at hand are dire and require all of our attention."


    "Oh yes, of course, it is," the Dragon of Space, Leviathan, sarcastically commented with an exaggerated huff. "You, Long, and Tiamat have been raaaaaving about it for decades. How ''mortal kind may soon grow beyond our grasp''. I could never imagine; they''ve only been doing just that for ages. Especially the humans." The cosmic dragon manifested two versions of her bone-white claws to do air quotes as she leaned forward, her actual arms crossed. "''Growing stronger, learning more, and soon, they''ll be unstoppable!'' That''s all of you! That''s what you sound like!" She mocked as she tried to imitate Bahamut''s voice and physically imitated Bahamut''s scales and umbral whisps, earning her an annoyed growl.


    "Hehehe, He DOES sound like that~!" The Light Dragon, Nidhogr chuckled, squeaking and teasing as she poked her opposing sibling''s cheek. "Leviathan is also right, however. Humans have always had a talent for overcoming obstacles thrown their way, even when the odds are hugely stacked against them. Paving the way for all other mortals. Watching their development has been fascinating, even if it was a slow process." She hummed as her tail swished idly, the thin, radiant scales and fur glistening in the light of her element. "They''re an odd bunch but much more interesting than the ones from a few centuries ago, and I can''t wait to see what else they''re going to come up with."


    Long didn''t respond to his reality-warping or gleaming sibling''s mocking comments. "It is not so simple, Leviathan. Not all mortals are as complacent as the one who has caught your fancy. Mortals have the capacity for much progress, but also worrying amounts of destruction in mere blinks of an eye. I know this; I have seen the many paths in their history and future. Mortals are always changing, and no future is set in stone. If we leave them unchecked, they could become-"


    "A problem to be snuffed out. I don''t see why we allow that, as GODS..." The Dragon of Water, Ryumi, rose to attention, her azure and turquoise fins flaring as she spoke. "That is what I have been saying for ages! Mortals have been getting too bold ever since that queen challenged me and had me enchant her sword. Now, her descendants are still using that blasted blade, and their power continues to grow." She spat. "Their poultry temples and shrines are meaningless. If they have no fear for the gods, they''ll challenge us; if they challenge us, other mortals won''t fear us any longer; if they no longer fear us-" She exclaimed, the fins around her mouth flexing into a scowl before she was cut off.


    "Then we shall all die." Tiamat, the Death Dragon, finished. Her voice was blank, cold, and calm despite the severity of her words. "The 12 of us, once thought immortal, proven to be anything but at the hands of the unbreakable mortal spirit. Correct?" Tiamat turned to Ryumi, the black robes and hood that covered her unmoving face giving nothing away, no sign or signal of what emotion she may be feeling. "You are not the only one concerned by the mortals and their growing power, Ryumi. However, we seem to have forgotten why we have our apostles, champions, envoys, heirs, etc. To act in our place and counteract any possible threats before they even arise, to protect us from the threats beyond. And if need be, replace us upon our demise in the case of our heirs." Tiamat finished. Words cold as ice.


    Echidna, the Dragon of Fire, hissed. "Honestly, I don''t see why you all decided to care now. We''ve watched this happen for ages, and now you lot choose to do something. The best time to treat, cull, and use them like livestock was when we first made them, not ages after they occupied and tarnished our realms! I''ve advocated for burning them all since my my father''s demise, but of course, it''s only now, when I decide to accept my first apostle, that you all realize that mortals are a plague upon the land; Echidna can NEVER have anything go her way! " She exploded, a blast of smoke billowing from her maw and nostrils with a snarl.


    "Uh oh~! Echidna''s having a temper tantrum~!" Wyrm cooed mockingly, the nature dragon''s mouth open in a goofy grin.


    Echidna opened her mouth wide wordlessly before spewing a torrent of billowing flame at Wyrm.


    The nature dragon effortlessly formed a wall of bark, wood, and mud to stop and consume the blast right when he saw the embers form in her mouth. A counter followed in the form of wrapping his vines and leaves around her and pulling his little sister into an armless bear hug. "Aww, there there. Let it all out! I''m sure your Apostle is the strongest widdle whelp, but we can''t just kill the mortals, silly head! It''s against the rules~!"


    "Release me, you pathetic succulent! Or I''ll roast you alive, you overgrown shrub!" Echidna hissed, a few more beams of fire blasting from her throat and narrowly missing the other dragon deities in the room. "Wyrm, I swear to US, if you don''t release me, I will raze every blade of grass on this planet, then feed the ashes to your pets."


    Wyrm only giggled and stuck out his tongue as he squeezed his sister tighter until a massive stone pillar erupted between them and forcefully split them apart¡ªdirect intervention from the Earth dragon, Jormungandr. Having only needed a pebble, flicked in the general rumblings they were making to knock them apart. Judging by the tremors of two dragons hitting ancient stone, he knew he got two direct hits. He gave a satisfied rumble and held a second pebble ready to go at a moment''s notice if need be.


    "Awwww, Jormung, you''re no fun," Wyrm grumbled, slouching as his vines drooped in defeat.


    "Thank you, Jormungandr..." Echidna simply snorted in a huff as she brushed off the ashes of leaves and twigs off her scales.


    A crude facsimile of Jormungandr appeared above the earth dragon''s head, moving its mouth as if to speak. "Mortals are already doing a good enough job causing us distress, so we don''t need to do the same to each other!" Fafnir, the dragon of Shadows, commented in a mocking cacophony. "...Is probably what Jormungandr would say if he ever spoke. Am I right, little man?" Fafnir asked but didn''t wait for an answer. The fake Earth dragon nodded as Fafnir answered in its voice, "Yes, Fafnir, you''re so smart and funny. And handsome. And pretty. Everyone loves you and would do anything to be in your good grace. I wish I were you, dearest Fafnir."


    Jormungandr sent the pebble directly at Fafnir''s masked face and turned it into a monolith of stone at the moment of impact. Another perfect shot, hitting Fafnir right in their core, dispersing their forms into many with the impact. "GAHH, fucking oww! MY EVERYTHING!" Fafnir cried out as a cloud of darkness rose from where his main body had fallen and began reforming the rest of her mass. "You broke my beautiful form, Jormungandr, it took me forever to get the hanf of it. I had Quetzalcoatl pose for it for hours! Very rude! Mean! Cruel, even." Fafnir''s face had twisted into a sinister snarl, which the fake Jormungandr shared, but the real earth dragon simply held a smug smirk and another rock in his claws.


    "Language!" Tiamat shouted. "And let us refrain from further violence, please. Quetzal can simply pose for another few hours. We all know, they would love it, Fafnir. But please, try and behave yourselves. Jormungandr, Echidna, Wyrm, you too. Fafnir''s Jormungandr apparition is right, even if its creator is a little brat."


    "Hmph, Fine," Fafnir said as their shadowy mass stitched itself back to its usual state with a pouty expression.


    "Sorry, Tia." the other dragons apologized in unison, except Jormungandr who simply offered a beautiful geode to Fafnir as a sign of good faith.


    "Ah! Yaaay! Pretty," Fafnir marveled at the simple gem, immediately taking the stone and holding it close. "Love you, Jormungandr!" They added as they made an apparition of themselves kiss Jormungandr on the cheek, which did bring an exasperated smile to the earth god''s blank face.


    *


    "May we push forward now, or are there any other interruptions?" The aforementioned Dragon of Wind, Quetzalcoatl, asked as their feathers bristled impatiently. "We''ve much to discuss, and the air here is stagnant and crusty. Not to mention I can barely move around and stretch my wonderful wings," Quetzalcoatl complained as they gestured to their rather cramped and cluttered corner of the realm, having to lean against the last of the dragons to have spoken, fought, or complain; Wyvern. Quetzalcoatl continued, "We already know that it is the natural drive of mortals to follow the winds of change at their backs. Chasing riches, thrills, goals, delicious procreation, whatever they desire."


    Lightning Dragon Wyvern began whirring to life as they loaded their response and stance on the matter, "I concur with Quetzal. Mortals have proven-ven-ven their tenacity, spirit, and ability repeatedly. They are strong and will evolve, cast-cast-cast-casting aside their WEAKNESS, or even evolving it into their strength. They may not fear us. And in turn. We shall show them. No-no-no-no Mercy-cy-cy-cy if they ever bare their fangs at us."


    "What an interesting statement coming from the likes of you, Wyvern," Bahamut interjected with an amused chuff. "Though not surprising, given your element and current mechanical form. You would have the least to lose if mortals became stronger than the gods and slain them, considering you cast aside flesh and blood to be above mortalities limitations. Your heart no longer beats; one could argue that no soul resides within that steel frame, and yet your ego still lives on. So, pray tell, what''s your plan for if we and our followers are all slain and your hollow shell is the single remaining trace of the 12 of us? When the mortals that serve us surpass you, and you''re rendered obsolete?"


    "Oooh, ouch, my circuits. Your words hurt-t-t-t, brother. Owie. This is sarcasm, in case you are unable to tell with my ''soulless steel frame,''" Wyvern jested. "But, I could ask you the same question. Would your s-s-s-scenario not be the so-called ''survival of the fittest'' where the strong th-th-thrive and the weak are left to wither and be forgotten-otten-ten-ten-ten?"


    "No. The ''strong'' fight to thrive and achieve their survival. Meanwhile, the ''weak'' never have their second chance to rise because the ''strong'' take it from them. A challenger appears, and the victor writes history. That is why my ''scenario'' is not one we''d ever have to worry about if we simply put these mortals in their place," the Penumbral god rebutted. "We''re the apex predators here, not them. It would do us no good to allow the ''weak'' to ''thrive'' and slay us by exploiting our vulnerabilities and prove themselves ''strong!''"


    "To think, you called me soulless mere momen-omen-oments ago, and yet here you are, acting as the embodiment of heartlessness."


    "It''s not heartless to ensure the stability of the natural order."


    "That''s my job! I am the nature dragon, so both of you get off my lawn!"


    "Silence, Wyrm! I will not be spoken down to, especially not by a naive, foolish god such as yourself."


    "Jormungandr, Bahamut''s being rude! Can you please hit Bahamut with a rock for me?"


    A rock shot out and hit Bahamut and Wyvern square in the face, Bahamut being far more affected than Wyvern.


    "Thank you, Jormungandr! You''re the best!"


    Jormungandr gave Wyrm a thumbs up.


    "Physical damage: Minimal. Emotional Damage: Owie, my soul. My poor, pure, and innocent soul," Wyvern mocked, "I-i-i-if only Bahamut and I were stronger than the world¡¯s most powerful mundane stone. Such a shay-shay-shame."


    "Do not mock me, Wyvern. I could shatter you like a sword against the anvil and plunge you into the abyss to rust for all eternity."


    "Isn''t the abyss my thing? Oh wait, I have the void. The abyss is Ryumi''s thing." Fafnir chimed in, mildly amused by their sibling''s bickering


    "Fafnir, none of us care"


    "Jormungandr, hit Bahamut with another rock! Please. Just cause."


    Another rock hits Bahamut.


    "Baha-ha-ha-hamut, the great and powerful god of the terrible darkness, taken down by two pebbles. Observation: Pretty funny."


    "SILENCE WYV-"


    "Pause." Long cut in to bring his sibling''s argument to a pause. The dragons of Earth, Nature, Lightning, Shadow, and Darkness were all brought to an immediate and literal stop as they were frozen in a single moment in time, courtesy of Long''s power over it. The temporal god turned to the remaining half of their siblings, "That was vaguely entertaining, but anyway. Let us continue, yes?"The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    Leviathan cleared her throat and caught her sibling''s attention. "Quetzalcoatl brought up an excellent point that I share the sentiment of! Our mortals have drive and purpose, which is a precious trait for all beings, but I guess too much of a good thing can cause problems, right. Sucks¡­ Ryumi also mentioned that queen from forever ago who could best a dragon in battle. However, that queen''s descendant is now Echidna''s apostle, and that drive, goals, and riches, blahblahblah are back under our talons... Or rather, Echidna''s. But the problem solved itself, yeah?"


    Echidna scoffed, "Yes, you speak the truth. If a dragon doesn''t solve their own problems, we have mortals to do the work for us. I will oversee her, and if need be, I will burn down her little kingdom myself if she acts out. We''re gods! If mortals grow strong enough to slay one of us, we destroy all they hold dear, and the remaining eleven obliterate the individual."


    Tiamat sighed, "Then when mortals stop worshipping us out of fear, who will carry out our wills? Who will worship us then, if not those mortals we would have now made our greatest adversaries?"


    Long chimed in, "Tiamat''s point is sound. That line of thinking will lead to a devastating end for all involved. None more so than us and this entire timeline. I implore you all to PLEASE consider long-term options instead of immediate answers."


    "Fine." Echidna grumbled, "How would you suggest we handle our mortals? Because I''m not giving up the best-damned apostle, I''ve had in ages over something so petty as another Celestial or two slain. Even I believe mortals are worth more than those wannabe gods." The fire dragon looked at the 5 dragons still locked in stasis, wondering how many Celestials had been created by those idiots alone just now.


    "The count is four now, sister." Ryumi corrected, "Four mortal-turned-celestials slain, and in this instance, triple the amount since the first mortal upheaval centuries ago. Mortals have gotten leagues stronger since those first 6 destroyed the Arcanegel."


    "Is that so much of a problem? Mortals growing too strong, that is? We''ve seen the fruits of their labor, and they''ve shown incredible adaptability, resilience, and determination. If you ask me, this will make all of our jobs easier!" Nidhogr smiled widely as she tormented a few weaker celestials to entertain herself.


    Quetzalcoatl nodded at the notion alongside Leviathan as Tiamat spoke up, "As gods, if we give the mortals an outlet, an avenue, or a method to direct their energy and aspiration, then it shouldn''t be a problem. See energy, harvest it. Long, you mentioned a ''devastating end'' earlier. Have you foreseen any other similar scenarios we should be aware of?"


    Long nodded slowly, "Indeed. Many potential outcomes, some good and many bad. We cannot be certain of a single future, though some sequential events are certain."


    "Care to elaborate, darling Long? Or do you hope to change the future you''re seeing by being cryptic and vague about it like you usually are about everything?"


    "Of course, dear Quetzalcoatl, my apologies." Long said, offering a slight bow of the head in apology.


    *


    "As follows..."


    Long''s scales shifted in color and pattern, aging, decomposing, being torn and burned, and repairing themselves as he cycled through several different possible timelines and events to come. All twelve dragons, even those in stasis, saw the visions play out as the temporal deity described,


    "In 16 years'' time, a new demon of Gluttony will emerge from the underworld and threaten the kingdom of Elrouche. In the event of the Demon lord''s success, the demon will challenge us one by one and consume the souls and essences of all 12 of us. She''ll then follow up with a rampage, destroying the mortal world.¡±


    ¡°If that outcome is avoided, however, after 3 years, she shall simply form an adventuring party of six who will keep each other in check and rise against a 5th instance of a mortal who would have ascended to the divine. A threat, I add, which would have been a more significant threat to mortal kind and the timeline than the demon lord on her own.¡±


    The vision showed a small horned figure and the two branches of fate, a much more giant horned monstrosity with a gaping maw facing the 12 dragons or the demon surrounded by five allies striking down a writhing mass of chaos.


    "A year following the latter case, that celestial... the soon-to-be throned king of Elrouche will attempt a coup against the empress of the kingdom of Solanra accompanied by the queen of Ganbatte. Either the coup is successful, and the masses are slain, the timeline falls with the unfortunate. Or the rebellion fails, the two royals are fought off, leading to the king''s eventual defeat, but the empress'' rule and relationship with Ganbatte are damaged severely."


    The 12 dragons were once again shown a second pair of divergent possibilities, the former showing the Elrouche King and Ganbarian Queen stood over the bloodied, charred corpses of hundreds, and the other depicting the King and Queen, soundly defeated as a knight stands in between the empress and the pair.


    "These events are destined to happen, but the outcomes remain uncertain. There are many more possibilities, but none as severe as these. We must take necessary precautions and actions to-"


    "Oi, Echidna, care to divulge the deal with your apostle? The queen of Ganbatte, Chrysko, or whatever her name is, that''s her, right?" Ryumi inquired as she pointed to the aforementioned Queen of Ganbatte within the vision, sporting a large blade clutched in a draconic claw and a fiery aura around her.


    All 6 non-stasised dragons looked to Echidna, who seemed a little irritated at all the sudden attention, and responded, "Why are you all looking at me for? She became my Apostle only a couple of months ago... What do you expect me to know about her hopes, dreams, shoe size, and aspirations? Besides, I''m not the fortune teller here. Long, what''s Crysta''s deal?"


    "I believe dear Ryumi''s concern lies in that. Krysta is your Apostle, so her actions, words, and decisions could very well be yours while in her skin. All due respect, dear Echidna, you aren''t exactly the most... well... ''upstanding'' member of our pantheon."


    Echidna shot a fireball at Long''s face, which he had stopped moments before it impacted. Then promptly reversed the process of time to send it back in her maw and caused the fire dragon to choke on her own flames.


    "Case in point, thank you, Echidna. As I was saying, I''m concerned that your apostle is under your control during this event. Regardless, that either is you actively or is a precursor to you meddling in socioeconomic affairs. Which is many individual''s nightmare scenario."


    Echidna coughed up the flames from her mouth and rattled a response, "I''ll have you know that she is nothing more than a weapon, a tool to me. And why would I care about any mortal socially? I''ve plenty of gold in my hoard. So how can you be sure this event would be my influence?"


    The dragons all paused, raising a single brow at Echidna.


    Leviathan was the first to break the silence, "Do you want like... An itemized list orrr..."


    "When we were hatchlings, you tried to roast Wyrm alive¡­ Twice." Nidhogr offered.


    "You go by the ''hellfire goddess'' epitaph." Long added.


    "You burned down an entire island, then set it on fire again once it was rebuilt!" Quetzal reminded.


    "Didn''t you melt your own offspring''s armor to their skin and leave them for dead?" Ryumi asked. She met said offspring a couple times. Nice lad, horribly traumatized, he claims he¡¯s gonna be a pirate now. Overall bad for everyone involved.


    "Not even Bahamut thinks your actions are justified. And he''s all about ''plunging the world to darkness''. He''s honest to all of us scared of you." Tiamat said with a slightly offended on his behalf tone.


    "You just launched a fireball at me. Right now." Long would stare blankly at Echidna if he had eyes.


    "Where do you stand on the whole mortal living or dying conundrum? I mean, we know the answer, but I''m happy to be pleasantly surprised that you keep life in decent regard." Nidhogr crushed a celestial as if to punctuate her point.


    "Alright. I get it." Echidna begrudgingly admitted. "The god of fire is as destructive and volatile as her element; don''t blame me; blame my father! He imprinted his decisive fury within my DNA-"


    "And none of the patience, apparently..." Tiamat noted


    ¡°Salamandra wasn¡¯t even violent? A bit boisterous and blunt, but not nearly as aggressive. Your attitude is almost entirely some kind of trauma response.¡± Long stated in the dead Fire gods defense.


    "-and it has only grown more and more fierce¡ªthe same fierce passion and ambition that drives Chrysta and, likewise all mortals. Hence, I see her as a tool. If that untapped drive can be harnessed and controlled, the mortals become more effective weapons, less a hindrance, and less likely to run amock and cause problems for us."


    "Interesting perspective, Echidna. But what''s the point of that ambition and drive? If they cannot fly free, explore, learn, grow, and spread their wings, girl?" Quetzalcoatl''s feathers and wings spread wide, and plumage flared up as they made their poin give them credit for. Their imagination, curiosity, and desire to seek out their purpose and freedom is a gift my father was glad to have granted."


    Ryumi answered for Echidna, "What''s the point in allowing a rabid dog to roam the streets and lash out as it will? Why would anyone release the hounds and risk a disaster when you can keep them in their cage or put them down? Drown that ambition to something more manageable and have your dogs on a short leash. Maintaining control and stability is easier, and the dog doesn''t suffer the same fate. Win-win."


    ¡°Y¡¯all really like obtuse metaphors.¡± Nidhogr yawned.


    "I''d rather have a pack of loyal dogs at my side." Leviathan offered her perspective. "I may be biased since I''m the Dragon of Space, but I think mortality''s true beauty lies in its diversity. The infinite number of people, unique stories that could never exist without the individual."


    "You and your crew of pirates WOULD feel that way, not to mention that little human girlfriend of yours." Ryumi shot back, not hiding her disgust of Leviathan''s human fetish.


    "Well, since you brought her up~" Leviathan wore a malicious grin at the mention of her beloved girlfriend, soon-to-be wife.


    "Oh god, please don''t..."


    "Grace Steele is the most valuable member of the human species, the most brilliant and skilled navigator and marksman." Leviathan used the opportunity to brag about her mate, partly to shoot back at her sister, but more importantly to get under her scales. "Not to mention, she is stunning. Such luxurious hair, flawless sun-touched skin, and an amazing sense of style. Oh, and we FUCK HARD, Ryumi!"


    "Language," Tiamat interjected. Leviathan nodded and readjusted.


    "We have ALL THE SEX, and it''s amazing! You may call mortals dogs, but I''m the one barking and having a litter of heirs with the woman of my dreams~."


    "For the love of us, Tiamat, kill me or kill her. I don''t care which."


    "Me as well. I''d rather face oblivion than hear about Leviathan''s little pet for the thousandth time."


    Tiamat looked at the Fire and Water siblings with an even blanker stare than usual, "Don''t knock mortal love until you try it more than once. It''s rather enjoyable if you find a partner willing to spend their short life with you. I would recommend it."


    The two stared in disgust and confusion at Tiamat. "Ya know... suddenly I''m fine with mortals killing all of us, Ryumi; you are now my favorite sibling."


    "Tiamat can have sex?" Quetzalcoatl perked as they tried to mentally process how a mostly skeletal dragon did the deed.


    "So, back on topic-"


    "Oh us, thank you, Nidhogr-" The Fire, Water, and Death Dragons called out.


    "I share Echidna''s method and madness but oppose her sentiment. We should not kill mortals or try to contain their ambitions. Let them have that freedom and the right to succeed, fail, or fly too close to the sun into their doom~. If they''re successful, let them thrive. They may be short-lived, but they have to manage themselves when they have the means to. Once all mortals stand at the peak of power and potential, they''ll likely start to slaughter each other over the few spots at the top. A problem that solves itself!"


    Long listened as his siblings argued and made their opinions and positions known, scratching his chin and weighing options and outcomes. "I''d be lying if I said any of your views were unreasonable or that any of them would be wrong. Let''s release our five friends and see where they stand in this.


    Long waved his hand, releasing the five trapped dragons from the stasis spell.


    "-ERN, YOU MOTORIZED." Bahamut immediately launched back into his tirade before all the conversations and time caught up with his senses, "Guhughhh- Wait. Eugh. What did we miss this time?"


    "I agree with Nidhogr. Let the mortals rise and fall on their own; their despair and grief are so delicious when they believe they have a chance. Their hope is just as savory. I have no issue with their survival or the deaths of gods. The 11 of you are welcome to stay safe and sound. I''ll gladly go out and meet the next one face to face and show them how weak they are deep down." Fafnir offered with a predatory smile and gleeful eyes.


    "But mortals are cute, and I don''t wanna see them die. That''s Tia''s job!" Wyrm whined and pouted as he clung to the neck of Tiamat, the death dragon rolling her eyes but accepting the contact.


    "Wyrm... is right, as childish as he is. All things are destined to meet me in the end. No matter how much they struggle, how strong they become. Doing anything seems superfluous and a waste of energy. I could sneeze, and all mortals would die if the need arose. As much as I would prefer not to." Tiamat shrugged as she scratched behind Wyrm''s antlers.


    "It would seem that we cannot reach a unanimous decision..." Long sighed as he pinched his brow. "For peace of mind and prevention of another petty squabble, let us all make clear where we stand."


    Long waved his hand, and a magical projection of a whiteboard appeared. The symbols of the 12 dragons marked the sides.


    "Show of talons. Who believes that we should let mortals continue their lives unperturbed? Neither help nor hinder." He asked. Jormungandr, Wyvern, Tiamat, and Long himself raised their hands.


    "Who believes we should take all actions to prevent them from flying too close to the sun?" Echidna, Ryumi, Bahamut raise their claws


    "Who believes that we should let them thrive and prosper as they do and support them with guidance, tools, or aid as they need, while not forcing our hands." Leviathan, Quetzal, Wyrm, and surprisingly, Fafnir raise their talons


    "Nidhogr?" Bahamut turned his gaze to the light dragon. "Where do you stand?"


    "I''m going to have to abstain. I''ve had my thoughts and musings. But I don''t feel comfortable sharing yet."


    "Very well..." Long said, a chill running up their scales. "Carrying on... Who believes that this timeline is an anomaly and must be corrected. Whether through reset or obliteration or more favorable means." Echidna, Long, Bahamut, and Fafnir approved.


    "Who believes we should let the current path continue and leave the timeline to their own devices?" Tiamat, Wyrm, Ryumi, Leviathan, Jormungandr, Wyvern, and Quetzal put forward their talons.


    All the dragons turned their attention towards Nidhogr, and the sinking feeling in Long''s gut worsened.


    "Nidhogr, if you are willing, please speak your mind." Long asked, trying not to beg.


    "Yeah, isn''t your whole thing being the ''good'' counterpart to Fafnir and Bahamut? It''s not like you to remain neutral." Leviathan chimed in a slightly mocking tone in her voice.


    "You would not be incorrect." Nidhogr agreed. "I do strive for a higher standard than my counterparts. And I wish the best for mortals. But! Dearest siblings~!" Nidhogr began, the sickly sweet tone in her voice sending a wave of unease throughout the other dragons. "I have a much more interesting proposition."


    "I do not enjoy the way that the timelines just shifted." Long admitted. "Please, what is your proposal, dear sister?"


    Nidhogr''s eyes shone brightly an impish grin spread across her face.


    "Why don''t we play a game~?"

 [2] To Unite and Stand

    "Alright, here''s how the game will work... The 12 of us and our followers shall be represented by our followers, who will fight and struggle for our cause, and the last dragon standing is the winner, and their views on what should be done with the timeline and mortal kind enforced. Either reset it, let it continue as is, or be destroyed outright. If you wish to see it, you must fight for your means and end it or hope another dragon who shares your ideals wins in your stead."


    "So, in short, an all-out war between dragons? "Tiamat asked, eyeing Nidhogr with equal parts disbelief and concern.


    "Yep~! Well no. Not a war, ''cause that would be boring, but a tournament or battle royale!" Nidhogr elaborated. "A dragon only fights when they are challenged directly by another dragon. But a strong mortal can come to their patron dragon''s aid in a fight, so be ready for a brawl or have your powerful players ready~!" Nidhogr explained.


    Tiamat''s face remained blank as always, but she grumbled a little, appalled by the notion but willing to let the youngest dragon continue.


    "And if we refuse?" Long asked. "Or are unwilling?"


    "Well, if you abstain from playing, then that''s your right, but if you do, then the timeline''s at the mercy of whoever wins," Nidhogr explained. "Inaction has consequences, so don''t let the thing that defeats you be your own hand, yeah?"


    "Fair enough," Bahamut answered. "Though, what''s the catch, little sister?"


    Nidhogr''s grin widened, and she shrugged. "No catch! It''s just a game to see which of us, our followers, are the most capable and whose domains are the strongest. The dragon who has the most power gets what they want. Sounds right up your alley, right, Mr ''cull the weak''? Or does your bravado mean nothing?"


    Bahamut, while irritated, had to admit the light dragon was right; this was precisely his idea of a good time. "If I must."


    "Wait, wait, wait! As much as I''d like to see you all and myself struggle, ONE of us has an unfair advantage!" Fafnir cut in with a playful scowl. "Echidna has an apostle and a nation full of fearful mortals at her beck and call. Bahamut and I barely have followers as it is; meanwhile, Nidhogr and Tiamat have entire country sized cults devoted to them! The scales are tipped, and the game has not even begun!"


    "Faffy is right. A game is no fun if one player has a leg up on everyone else, let alone a quarter of us!" Wyrm said, siding with the Shadow dragon. "We gotta have some rules in place to make things fair, or the game ends as soon as it begins."


    ¡°I may be one man short, but I think I would still fare well.¡± Bahamut gloated with false bravado. ¡°But I do value an even ground and our skill and judgment determining the victor.¡±


    "Perhap-hap-haps a starting point in the future?" Wyvern suggested, whirring a solution in their mind. "This entire meeting was held to re-re-re-resolve the potential calamities, but the game is a potential catastrophe in and of itself. I would suggest this game begins only after the timeline''s potential Bad-bad-bad endings have been dealt with, allowing intervention in the worst-case scenario and allowing over twenty-ty-ty years to pass and gather more players."


    Echidna was silent. Not in anger but contemplation. "Fair enough, we are all busy with our affairs, and I would loathe hearing you all claim I won because of my supposed ''head start.'' Besides, I would want the weaklings within Ganbatte to help me win. I would sooner win by my strength alone. Let''s put in rules to appease everyone while we wait, regardless of the outcome of the timeline."


    "Awww, rules? For a game between gods? My, my Chiddy, you''re no fun! What are you, a human?" Nidhogr teased, her voice lilting and mocking.


    "No, but the mortals may be, and it''d be best to have guidelines. So that when I WIN, there will be no arguments. We will all abide by the rules, and the winners will be clear. Understood?" Echidna snapped, her voice cold and hard.


    Nidhogr just waved a hand dismissively. "Yea, yea, I hear you all. Everyone in agreement to establish some rules before our game begins?"


    There was a collective nod, the 12 dragons in agreement for once. That was never a good sign.


    *


    "Right then! In that case, we each propose one rule for the game: 12 dragons, 12 rules. But the punishment for breaking a rule must also be put forth." Nidhogr said, clapping her hands, "I shall begin with the punishment for any and all rules when broken and end us with the twelfth rule. Those who break the following rules shall forfeit a fraction of their power towards the dragon whose rule was broken. Is that fair?"


    There were nods and murmurs of assent, agreeing with the terms.


    "Good! Then who wants to go first?"


    Fafnir spoke up, the shadow dragon''s voice smooth and sultry but deep and intimidating, "I shall propose the first rule of the game: All of your followers must be mortals; no making, building, or summoning something to be your player. That means you Jormung and Wyvern."


    There were a few snickers as Fafnir offered the rule, mainly from Nidhogr, Wyrm, and Quetzal. But the two nodded in agreement to the rules, knowing they could easily make an unending legion of constructs for their players.


    Jormung offered the next rule, constructing a pillar of sandstone that had their rule etched into the surface, ''Second rule: Altercations between two dragons will be resolved through the use of their players unless a dragon has none available at that time. Then that dragon may defend themselves, but likewise, their opponent must fight using their players, and not by themselves until they''ve lost their players.''


    Bahamut was next to propose his rule, "As to prevent this game from divulging into a barbaric war amongst mortals, I propose the third rule: No harm shall befall those not involved in this game from the direct action of a dragon. I know many of us- Echidna- would use your apostles to wreak havoc upon the world, for one reason or another, and this rule prevents that. Of course, you may still use your players to cause mayhem, but the harm caused should be directed towards predominantly the other dragons."


    Quetzal then spoke, "Fourth rule: As our followers are our players in this game. A dragon can not utilize another''s follower without the consent and aid of that dragon. Unless said follower defects of their own volition, in which case, a player must agree to leave the service of one dragon to join another. No stealing other players, but the players can always change sides if they want to."


    Tiamat was next to speak up, "Fifth rule, adding on to the previous. Upon initial recruitment, our players must have a strong affinity with their patron''s element and not just be some random above-average mortal you picked off the street. This rule will make sure a dragon can''t just give their champion a weapon of mass destruction and have them become invincible. However, a follower that joins another dragon''s side does not need to follow this rule."


    Leviathan spoke up next, "Sixth rule: To make things more interesting, our followers must have no prior knowledge of our game before being recruited. They must be given an explanation of what is happening once they''re picked to participate and what they''d be working toward. They also must be given the option of decline."


    Echidna spoke up, "Now, now, siblings. Nothing is stopping one of us from amassing an army of players to use as shields. I suggest, outside of our basic acolytes and followers, our seventh rule as follows: Dragons can have a maximum of 6 main players, from their heralds, heirs, envoys, apostles, champions, and the like, to utilize in this game. I''d make them count if I were you lot."


    Ryumi scratched her chin and added to the proposal, "As for our eighth rule: If two or more dragons wish to join alliances with one another, they must parlay under peaceful terms to make such an agreement with all followers present and agreement. This way, allegiances must be made in the open, and not behind anyone''s backs, and made towards both dragon''s benefit. Only one alliance per pair of dragons. Cause who doesn''t love a bit of drama, intrigue, and wagers?"This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    Wyvern''s eye screen brightened with an idea, "Oh, for our N-n-ninth rule: The boons and blessings that our players receive from us will be kept even in the event of a t-t-turncoat, as to not hinder the game by taking away an advan-vantage and also persisting after the game''s end if they so wish. So even our loyalists may turn on us or vice-ice versa and keep their edge if their former allies decide to take revenge. I lo-lo-love drama."


    "If I may, siblings..." Long chimed in, "The tenth rule. Similar to the rule against employing non-mortal and dragon-made followers, there is no use of celestials or demons within our game. Celestials are already born from the clashing of two or more gods, and this game is likely to result in celestial numbers bolstering, as well as demons from mortal ambitions. It would be all too easy for us to capitalize on that. I think we would all like to avoid a repeat of the Devil Divine incident.."


    "Awwww, but I want a few celestials... They''d make my forests SO pretty..." Wyrm whined, causing the other gods to roll their eyes. "Rule eleven! I can have one celestial as a treat. But the rest are off-limits! Please? Pleeeeeease?"


    "What?" Most of the dragons questioned in unison.


    "I''ll allow it," Nidhogr nodded.


    "WHAT?!" Most of the dragons repeated in unison.


    "I''ve seen you with them before. They are quite pretty... Have as many as ya want, Wyrm. But the rule still stands against demons. And I''m not budging on that one. Deal?"


    "YAAAAAAYYYY Thanks Niddy! You''re my favorite sibling!" Wyrm cheered.


    "You say that to all of us every day..." Leviathan deadpanned.


    Nidhogr nodded, "Good, good. Now, onto our next and final rule, which I want to be very clear on, if I may have your attention, please..."


    Nidhogr paused for dramatic effect as the other 11 Dragon gods gazed at her with anticipation and expectation, "Our game may allow our followers and players alike to use all of their talents and abilities to their fullest potential. As the proprietor of this game, I declare Rule 12: I shall act as the judge, jury, and executioner to all participants. Should you or a mortal break any rules we have set forth, the perpetrator will answer to me. I and I alone will enact justice and punishment as a neutral party. And don''t think that as the youngest, I''ll show any mercy... This is MY game, and I will be the thing that stands before any of you in victory. I am the final boss, so to say, and I shall deal with any who defy or disobey me. Understood?"


    *


    The other gods nodded in agreement, knowing their pantheon''s youngest fury was not to be trifled with, least she pull another ''Dragonslayer incident''. "Yes, Nidhogr."


    "Excellent! However, we still have some years to prepare before the game begins. So, take this time to train and recruit whoever you think would best serve your interests. I''m looking forward to our Rhapsodious Odyssey of Ascendant Realms!"


    "Our what?" Quetzalcoatl questioned.


    "Rhapsodious Odyssey of Ascendant Realms. That''s what I''ve decided to call this game of ours. ''The Dragons ROAR''! I like it!"


    "It''s a bit long... and it sounds kind of stupid..." Long stated.


    "YOU''RE LONG AND STUPID!"


    "I am Long, but I''m not stupid. I am arguably the smartest entity in existence. If not, easily top 15."


    "Actually, you''re pretty short compared to the rest of us. Quetzal''s the longest of us all." Fafnir pointed out.


    "Yes, and I am rather intelligent," Quetzal stated. "Not to mention rather handsome, beautiful, and gorgeous. Don''t you all agree?"


    "You forgot insufferable and humble." Echidna sighed.


    "...You''re all beautiful in my eyes." Long joked, pointing to their blindfold with a weary grin, causing a few of the dragons to laugh and chuckle at his remark.


    "As I was saying," Nidhogr continued back on track, "The ''Dragons ROAR is what we shall call this game of ours. We, as dragons, are bound by these rules as well. We cannot use our godly power to directly influence our followers, players, or the game itself, except for our apostles. We may assist and give our players advice, but it''s up to them to do what they will with it. All decisions will ultimately be theirs to make and ours to observe unfold. Held by the same standards and restrictions as our champions, we will be fighting a fair game, my friends."


    "What does the winner get again? I forgot." Leviathan asked.


    "They get to decide what happens with all the mortals and the timeline! With the help of the Mother Dragon, even! So I''ve decided."


    "Why do you keep referring to me like that?" Tiamat asked.


    "No, no. Not you, Tia. Oroborous! THE Mother Dragon! The winner will wake her up and change the world alongside their players as they see fit." Nidhogr explained.


    "The Mother Dragon?" Tiamat inquired. "But that''s... impossible. She''s lying dormant, asleep. We can''t awaken her. None of us can."


    "Well, if the winner can defeat all of us in the game, they probably have the power to awaken her. It''s just a matter of having enough power and influence over the world to where she HAS to intervene. Or so you all like to say in that ominous tone of voice."


    "Wait, but if you plan to be the final boss... doesn''t that mean you''ll have pretty much a 50/50 chance of winning?" Leviathan pointed out.


    "Only if none of you try to stop me. In which case, you''d be right. But since I am the final boss, and my followers are already mighty, Imma take this pre-game time to catch up on my beauty sleep, try some new mortal foods, maybe have an egg or 200, and enjoy myself."


    "You... could do all that outside the game..." Leviathan replied. "But I''d be lying if I didn''t share the sentiment. I think I''d like to take the time to visit a few islands I''ve been eyeing for some time now."


    ¡°Girls night?¡± Nidhogr raised a claw and brow to her sister.


    ¡°Girls night!¡± Leviathan answered, claw in claw with the Light Dragon.


    Tiamat sighed, "Well, if you all are going to play this game, then I suppose I have no choice. Rest up all you like, and make my victory all the easier for me."


    "I agree; laze around all you wish. I will focus on finding the perfect players and prepare for my conquest." Bahamut stated.


    ¡°Nah, you¡¯re joining us in girls night, edgelord.¡± Nidhogr placed her claw on Bahamut''s shoulder. It is less of an objection and more of a threat.


    "This will end poorly, very poorly, for so many people... But it seems the only option is to play. I hope I am wrong about all of this." Long lamented, scanning through the various futures he saw.


    "Come what ma-ma-may, the results shall be an excellent test of the fruits of eons of labor. May the best dragon stand a-a-a-at the top!" Wyvern cackled.


    "Leviathan, Nidhogr, can I join the girl''s night!?" Wyrm begged.


    "OOOOOH ME TOO!" Fafnir shouted.


    Jormung looked to the five with a pleading look of anticipation.


    "OHMIGOSH, YES!!!" Leviathan and Nidhogr shouted in unison.


    ¡°Let it be known I am only joining you because I want to be present when something explodes from your tomfoolery.¡± Bahamut stated smugly, ¡°Anyway, there was this nice brothel chain I heard cropped up in Hellmerica. They have amazing culinary morsels¡­ Uh, um, or so I¡¯ve heard.¡±


    Echidna smirked at the group, "See you all in 20 years. Enjoy yourselves while you can~." She cooed before attempting to vanish in a flourish of flames. But Wyrm pulled her from the fire to the entourage with a sturdy vine.


    The rest of the dragons also departed to the mortal realms, leaving only Tiamat and Long.


    Tiamat loomed in silence for a moment, "You have seen the possible futures, yes?"


    "I have."


    "And what you have seen would include..."


    "Varying degrees of disaster in favor of a select few dragons. I''m sure I need not tell you who."


    "Indeed you don''t." Tiamat thought to herself momentarily, "I would rather avoid dawdling and playing another pawn in Nidhogr''s game. But my claws seem to be tied. At least if I want to prevent something worse than this game from happening..." The death dragon sighed before muttering to herself, "What kind of god would I be if I let innocents die because I was too stubborn to intervene."


    "I have foreseen many futures which end favorably, but they are a hope, never a guarantee. We will have to work hard to make them our reality. Not just you and I, but many of our siblings... Perhaps we should swear an allegiance?!" Long hoped, raising their head at Tiamat.


    Tiamat looked back with a soft but determined expression, but somehow still blank look, "I would like to... But it is not my nature to act so quickly. While our primary goal is the same, our means of achieving it will differ, like usual. For now, I will consider it a distant possibility and hope we both come to the same conclusion."


    Long sighed but nodded. Tiamat wasn''t wrong there... "If you ever seek my aid, do not hesitate to ask, Dragons Roar, allegiance or not. You are not one I wish to be on the wrong side of. " He smiled.


    Tiamat slithered over and wrapped her tail around Long in as good of a hug as she could muster, "I am not one you need fear. Not unless you truly have a death wish and do something reckless. Imagine... You ever taking a risk." She chuckled softly. "Now go enjoy your ''girls night'' with our siblings."


    Long chuckled, "I intend to... I just hope Nidhogr and Leviathan behave themselves..." Long quickly scanned the very near future, "They won''t... Well, I shall depart. Good luck, dear Tiamat." He smiled and gave Tiamat a gentle headbutt after missing three times before shifting his place in time and space to join the others.


    Tiamat watched and waited, alone with her thoughts again. "Once again... My domain is threatened by hubris and selfishness. Once again, I must play a hand in preventing the worst possible outcome. So be it. If it''s a game you wish, you shall have a game. A game I fully intend to win."


    The death dragon slithered off into the ground, back to her realm of the dead.