Chapters Chapter 1: Strange Yet Stranger [Redux]
I awoke, startled from my slumber by the gust of the screeching wind. Gasping, I shivered as I gained control of my breathing. Staring aimlessly into the clouded sky, I began searching through my memories. With nothing showing up, I began to feel my body starting up. Yet as calm as everything seemed, everything felt... Wrong. My entire body felt different and yet, my instincts told me this was right. Every fiber of my body felt all so unnatural and yet, I stayed calm through my panicked mind. I raised my arms, seeing the unbelievable.
My hands were gone! No. They were changed. Similar to that an eagle's claw, I had a three digit finger/talons including a talon/thumb. I was too shocked to scream as I continued to breath in and out. Doing my best not to lash out and do something rash, I continue to stare dumbly at my changed hand. I did an experimental twirl with my changed hand. And as expected, it followed my commands and moved.
“Holy shitbuckets.” I could bare keep my thoughts straight as my mind raced with sensation and realization.
“This… Is it real?” I spoke under my breath as I raised my left arm, leading to the same conclusion. Slowly, I rolled over onto my belly as I got onto all fours. As if it was normal to be on all fours instead of standing on two.
“What am I?” My voiced aches out, as if I had a small cold. Still sounding the same, I sighed and took another deep breath. The air was freezing dry, yet didn’t affect my lungs all too much. I glanced over the area to find a spectacular sight.
I stood on the ledge of a tall cliff side, gazing down upon a barren valley. Down the valley and into the distance, I could see some kind of man made structures. Another gust of cold wind hit me, blowing a bit dust into my face. I quickly reacted and shield my eyes, but I was met with shock as I felt my face. Finding a beak instead of normal mouth, I began touching every part of my face, finding that I was completely changed. What the hell did I turn into? I looked down below, finding that I was really high from any kind of way down.
“Damn.” I groaned as I sat in the dirt, trying to think and comprehend what was going on. With my mind yielding no answers, I stared at my claws. Then an idea popped into mind. I need to climb down. Climbing down will lead to somewhere. Going around and I'm bound to find someone. And if I find people, I'll get answers. With that train of thought, I need to get moving. I got up and gazed down the mountainside, only finding no spots to climb down.
“Of course, no easy way down.”
Grumbling at my luck, I began to check myself, seeing if I had anything useful. I had my beloved German Mauser K98K modified with a (6X) Scope. I had bought it at an action and boy am I glad I did. It was both fun to use and great to hunt with. Both Unexpectedly Surprisingly, I had my Remington 870 Special Purpose Marine Magnum 12 Gauge with 6 round tube. I also a bandoleer holding 3 inch shells as well having a saddle like bag that was stored with ammunition. And lastly, I had my sidearm with me in it’s now modified holster. The gun itself is a Smith & Wesson Model 610 10MM 6 shot Revolver. I didn’t bother to count how much ammo I had, I knew by glancing that I was stocked up on ammo to shoot at the range all day. All of the guns had additional changes that made them work with my new claw like hands.
Besides my guns, I also had stuff that didn’t belong to me. For example, I had a bunch of survival tools; from a flint and steel fire starter kit to a classic swiss army knife. I also had a stainless Ball-Peen Hammer with a redwood handle. The strange thing about the hammer was that it had strange runic symbols flawlessly engraved into the metal and wood. The hammer was part of what I found to be a metal working tool set that (magically) somehow fit in a section of my bag. On the outside of my bag, there was two big pouches held down by large belt buckles. The first one held an entire gun cleaning tool kit. The second one held a ammo reloading kit with the many tools to make more.
So far, this entire bag defied physics and all that is logic. How do all of these thing fit inside it! How is this even possible? My brain hurts trying to wrap any logic around this entire situation. It’s like some bullshit magic excuse of a reason! Wait...
Magic. It has to be…
Well damn, I guess for once, magic is the only logical reasoning here. Damn. I’m just going to tell myself that I guess nothing is impossible, at least for my own sanity. Since logic has now been thrown out the window, let’s see what else there is in Santa’s magic bag!
Looking into another internal pouch, it held large wood splitting axe/sledge, a wedge, hatchet, a large one-man crosscut saw! I had another magical pouch full of a mixed bunch of odd stuff. Tools for fine detailed carpentry, bottles of strangely colored inks, jars filled with unknown powders, gold engraved pens for calligraphy, reflective/crystal like papers, many engraved/painted bones, sticks that looked like magic wands, and so much more.
So far, seven pouches inside of a moderately large bag holds a garage turned into a packed workshop worth of tools and things. Grabbing a permanent marker, I began labeling the pouches.
“Ammunition Storage. Ammunition Tools. Gun Tools. Survival Tools. Metal Working Tools. Woodworking Tools. And… Magic Junk/Tools? Yeah, I’ll go with that. I can always change it latter…” I mumbled a I wrote. I thought about labeling the tools, but that’s work for another time. Speaking of the tools, I noticed that all of them had those runic engravings that seemed to have a soft glow within the paint. That told me that these tools must have at least some magical property. What that is? I don’t know. I’ll find out later. Anothing thing to note about the tools, is that none of them had any manufacture logo or any mark of who made them. Hell, the red swiss army knife was plain and markless as well. The only things unaffected by this unbranding was my guns.
“Strange, as if no one wanted anyone to know who made them. Could it be because none of them belonged to me? More questions to be hurt my brain with later.”
Beside my magic bag of stuff, I had another weapon that had now caught my attention. Sheathed on my right was a beautifully crafted Roman Gladius. The finely crafted damascus steel blade was quite sharp and strong as I grazed the tip on my talon, testing the sharpness to be like that of a razor. And just by this observation alone, it was by far from being any cheap blade. Another blade on me was a dagger located next to my revolver on my left.
The dagger, if i could be called that, was a strange definitely ineffective weapon. The hadel was simple polished wood with two snake tails curving outwards and forming the pommel. Two dragon like heads made the guard as the snake tails traveled up and crossed over once before forming two sharpened shot edged tips. The blade was really just a arrowhead split down the middle. This dagger was by the looks of it, more of a decorative piece then a useable weapon.
Other than my weapons, my arrire has changed as well. I no longer wore my hunting jumpsuit and coat. It was all gone and replaced with armor on the line between fantasy and realistic. And this was an interesting setup of armor if I’ve ever seen. The first thing I wore was a long dense dull gray gambeson that reached all the way to cover my rear sides. The pattern was like that of scale mail, each scale overlapping the next. Based on the odd texture, the gambeson seemed to be made of some modern plastic like fabrics. Kevlar maybe?
Besides guesstimating what the gambeson was made of, the forearm parts of the sleeves were protected by some fancy steel bracers. The reason I considered it fancy was because the nordic pattern finely engravings into the steel. I had more nordic plated armor that covered my shoulders, abdomen, belly, back, and rear. All parts seamlessly worked together in protecting me and keeping maneuverability. Strange that I was missing a helmet though…
The chest plate was composed five main plate parts that overlapped each other, but fully protected my chest and granted flexibility. My underside was like that of a dragons, metal parts forming scales that overlapped and allowed more flexibility, but less protectability. My shoulders were like that of my bracers, and are simply strapped down held together with the Gambeson. Each side of my rear had a big curved plate that overlapped the smaller, integrated scale plates that worked flawlessly. My back was a bit different as two gaps were made for my wings and making use of the. The section of my lower back did have a single plate that worked under the ones on my rear.
Besides the fantasy like armor, I had these black leather saddle bags. Just looking at them, it seemed as if they were really nothing that special. But finding out before hand of the massive and unnatural storage capacity, I greatly valued them. As I’ve noted before, the snake dagger was sheathed on my left side right next to my Revolver. The Black Gladius was sheathed securely onto my left thigh. My stainless shotgun was hanging on my back between my wings by it’s strap. And lastly, I held my beloved rifle in my bird hands.
Damn, I look just like some type of anime Bounty Hunter in the Middle Ages, added with my modern firearms. Yet with all this stuff, I was scared. Not from the heights of the cliffside, but rather the fact that I’m not panicking. Everything about this is just… Wrong. This is Impossible at every level. How did this happen? Why did this happen? Where am I? What am I?
These questions kept shouting for about another minute until I started taking another breather. Ok, I need to think rationally about this absurd situation. I’ve been turned into a… umm… Bird thing? Damn it, I need a name for what I am. Let’s see, I walk on all fours, have huge blue/white/black wings, a black beak, black talons, a fluffy lion’s tail, Head and upper half of a bird, lower body that looks like a white leopard...
It was this moment, I facepalmed…
Or is if faceclawed? Naw. I’m sticking to facepalmed. I’m not changing my views that quickly!
Anyways! I now know what I am! A freaking Griffin in all of its glory. If I’m correct, I’m a mix between the likes of a snow white leopard and a blue jay/falcon. Wow, I’m such a dumbass. But why such an odd color? Aren't griffins supposed to be... Brown?
Racist.
“What the hell?”
What you said was racist.
“That did not sound racist… Or did it?”
You know better than that dumbass.
“How am I supposed to know that brain?! All mythological creature are just a myth! Griffins don’t even scientifically work!”
Yet that is what you are.
“Ture, I can’t deny that logic.”
And forever an unlucky loser.
“Shut up!”
Besides arguing with my own thoughts, I then finally remembered what I was doing before I passed out. It was the ROCK! Goddamnit! I know better then to touch magical glowing rocks in creepy caves! It’s so cliche that a child knows better! Whatever that thing was, it must be responsible for this. I’m so stupid sometimes.
Yes you are indeed stupid as well.
“MOTHERFU-”
After going on my spree of constant swearing, I finally calmed down. My tempertamterm nearly lead to headbutting the cliffside in rage to get my head to shut up. But I knew better than to act like a child in a situation like this. Yet I have to admit that this is by far the most stupidest thing I’ve done in a while. Maybe even the worst of them all!
Once again, I pouted and grumbled, not wanting to accept reality. But I was brought back from my mental breakdown as I heard the echoed sounds of screams and clashing of metals. Quickly getting up, I gazed over the the valley, thanks to my eagle eyes, I quickly spotted a small caravan of griffins. What surprised me even more was that they were be attacked by what looked like biped dogs. They were smaller then werewolves and their limbs seemed dispoerposraint? I quickly aimed my rifle and looked into the scope, getting more detailed image of what was going on. I took note that these griffins looked like the ones I’ve seen before; brown body with a white eagle head. These Griffins seemed to be farmers as they were armed with farming equipment and a few swords. There looked to be ten strong as they protected the women and children.
Now the mutants on the other hand, looked to be primitive at best. They were dressed in poorly sewn pelts and armed with bone and rock. Not really the best weaponry compared to iron or steel. Assuming that these dogs were just savages, I laid down and aimed my rifle. Hoping I was making the correct assumption, I readied myself. Within a few moments, I mentally calculated distance and directory, even if I was not that far away, I still did it out of habit. I breathed steadily, and gently pulled the trigger.
*BOOM*
And as expected, I landed a good old headshot on one of the larger dogs. I watched through the scope as the dogs stopped their movements, the sudden sound making them drop their weapons and cover their ears. They searched for the source, only to find a dog missing a good chunk of his head. Both the Dogs and Griffins stood shocked while I on the other hand, I did not. Taking the opportunity, I skillfully moving the bolt at blurring speeds, ejecting the shell and bolting in another. I aimed at the next target, calculated, and fired. This time, landing one in the chest. The Dogs haven’t caught on and were still cowering from the blasting sound of my rifle. The griffins did not and took the advantage as they charged, taking down two more Dogs.
I heard a howl of fear amongst the now terrified raiders, sending the savages into a full retreat. I did not let them leave easy as I fired three more time. Landing two more and missing the last. Sighing, I loaded another five rounds and caught the stripper clip in mid air. Grabbing the somewhat hot shells, I packed them into my empty pocket. I aimed down the scope once again, observing the griffins as they searched for their savior. Lowering my gun, I got back up.
I needed to get down there. Saving them should give me an advantage on gaining need information and hopefully, some answers.[i/]
Switching the safety on, I slung my rifle onto my back. Stretching my wings a bit, I moved my two guns from messing with my wings. I really hoped I could glide down without breaking anything. Yet again, I decided to take the chance, I jumped off of my perch and held my wings out, letting them balance out my guided fall.
Now, I don’t know much about birds or how they fly, but I’ve air dived once when I still had the stomach. Sticking to those important yet horrid memories on how to slow and move through my descent, I glided through the air. The only problem with this was that I didn’t account for wind.
I began to spiral out of control.
Yet on instinctive impulse, I quickly flapped balanced myself in the air. Curving around the group, I then made a somewhat smooth landing in front of them. And for first time since I’ve awoken, luck seemed to like me now. Thank god I didn’t mess that up. Shaking my head, I looked up at them, seeing their shocked faces.
“What? Never seen a griffin fly?” I asked sarcastically, hoping to god that they would understand me, at least ease them before they stabbed me with those pointy pitchforks. Thankfully, this got them out of their stutter as they looked at each other, as if not knowing what to say at my response.
“Thank you.” I heard one of them say out in english. I looked down and saw a little ball of fluff pop out from behind the adults.
“Your welcome.” I answered back, smiling at the surprisingly cute little griffin. I thought bird babies were supposed to be ugly as hell? Whatever, the small thing stood wide eyed at the sight of me, looking just like a kid at christmas morning. He was quickly nudged back and hidden away by what I assumed to be his mother.
“What do you want mercenary?” Said an older one as he practically spat out the word. Yet I did not take offence as I notice he was clutching his chest over a bleeding wound.
“You're hurt, can you let me see your wound.” I asked politely, gaining a grunt from him.
“We don’t need the help of your KIND!” He spat, but this time with blood. He let out a cry as he fell, clutching his bleeding wound. The other Griffins quickly caught and lowered him onto the ground.
“Father!” Another griffin called out, grabbing his hands and looking into his tearing eyes.
“Let me help now or he’s gonna die.” I demanded. Even though I knew little about surgery and medical stuff, I wasn’t just gonna let this guy die. The griffin that I guessed to be the son, looked up at me, staring into my eyes for a moment.
“Help him.” He allowed. I didn’t hesitate as I quickly looked over his wounds. He had a nasty looking opening and was bleeding out profoundly. Thankfully, it wasn’t too deep and could be stitched. Yet I needed to cleanse and seal the wound fast before he bled out.
“Get me some bandages, towels, clean water, a needle and some thread. Now!” They did as I said as my voice brought authority over them. Rushing like mad, they quickly brought me what I needed. Reaching into my bag and pulled out a round for my Mauser.
“What’s that for?” Another demanded, hold a dagger at my back.
“To cleanse the wound.” I answered, ignoring his threatening jester and quickly soaking up the wound. I then washed the opening and quickly dried it. I then popped the bullet out and spread the gunpowder onto the wound.
“This is going to hurt a helluva lot, brace yourself.” I said. He gulped and shut his eyes, ready for the pain. I used the flint and the steel rod, igniting the powder. The Griffin screeched at the sudden burning pain, yet still held strong. Before the others could object to what I was doing, I began to sew the wound up as fast as I could, yet trying to be gentle. With the wound sealed, I wrapped the last of the cloth I had around his chest and made a knot, putting pressure on the stitched wound.
Now I’m no field medic or any trained specialist like that. Even though I saved this guy's life, I didn’t even pass biology in high school. So how did I do this? I saw this done in a movie. Simple as that. Don’t know why I remembered that particular movie, but I’m sure as hell glad that I did. By now the bandaged Griffin had passed out.
“Is he…” The son stated, just ready to mourn in sorrow.
“No. He just passed out from shock, I guess.” I pointed out, stepping back.
“He is alive and should get better.” I assured, letting him hug his father. I backed away a bit more, giving them some room. I watched him, making sure the son didn’t open up the stitches. The griffin with the dagger then came behind me, holding the blade against my non armored neck. Everyone got nervous as I stood still with the dagger at my throat.
“Put the blade down.” My voice spoke low with malice, hoping that I could scare him into letting his guard down. And it worked. He flinched away and that seemed to be all I needed as I quickly smacked the dagger out of his loose grip. I the grabbed him by the arm, flipped him onto the ground and twisted his arm down into submission. All done in one fluid motion, he cried in pain as I held him at the breaking point of his shoulder.
“I am not your enemy.” I said loud enough for everyone to hear. Glancing around, the farmers looked at me fearfully.
“First I scare those dogs off your hide, then I give medical treatment, and save one of your own from death. Yet he sees me as a threat? Does his ignorance represent you all?” I asked, clearly voicing my frustration at them. They said nothing, watching in shock as I twist the arm a bit, making the griffin scream in pain.
“I come and save you, yet this is how you thank me? Maybe I had mistake the dogs for being the victims?” I snarled, releasing my anger onto them. The griffins were now huddling in fear, as if I was a monster about to eat them. Few moments passed before I realized what I was doing. These people are scared and I’m about to break this guy’s arm off. This is not gonna help my reputation or get me answers.
A few moments passed as I stared into their eyes. Even an idiot could tell that they clearly feared me. Quickly understanding that this was not the best idea for making friends, I let him go. Releasing his arm, he quickly scurried onto his feet and joined his friends.
“However, that is not the case.” I stated, looking away from them.
“The truth is, I’m lost and in need of some guidance.” I told honestly. Yet I was not gonna go dropping the ‘I’m not a griffin’ bomb. They’ll just see me as crazy… Yet they probably already do by how they look at me… Shitbuckets.
“Hay. I’ll even make a deal.” I said, which perked some interest out of a few of them.
“What is it?” Asked the... Who is that one? Damn, I need their names.
“I’ll protect and guard your group as long as needed. In return, you lead me to the nearest city and help me get a map.” I offered, hoping they'll take the bait.
“What about daddy?” He asked the fluffball, looking up at me with a puppy face at god tier. DAMN IT! HE IS SO CUTE! CAN’T. RESIST. MUST. SUBMIT. Damn it Jack! Why does he have to be so freaking cute?!
“And I’ll see to it that your father gets well.” I said quickly, doing my best not to just rush up and hug the life outta him. They took their time talking to each other, discussing what they should do. When they finally came upon agreement to my offer, they had their own terms. Just as long as I don’t go killing or stealing from them, they said I could accompany them as a guard. Now it's time to get some info.
After chatting with a few of the Farmers, I got quite the story. Well it turns out that this wasn’t the first time they had been raided. First time was not from these ‘Diamond Dogs’ as they were called. Instead a hungry dragon burned down their town and farm to a crisp. If it wasn’t for me not caring and just going with it, I’d be having a panic attack by now. Thankfully, that didn’t happen as I continued to learned more about this world, while not revealing too much about myself.
While they still feared me, I now understood why. They had just survived a dragon attack and were heading to the city for help. Then they get ambushed and nearly killed before being saved by a strange colored griffin. Yeah, I’m apparently very strange to them. Yet I can’t blame them for being paranoid as they are.
Thankfully, nothing jumped us on our way to the city. I think the gunshots had scared most of the wildlife. Besides the boring long walk, I couldn’t help but question what kind of world I was in. Based on what I could get from the griffins, I could only assume that this land held other sentient mythological creatures. Hell, I’m probably in a some kind of fairy tale land for all I know. And if I can use magic, I’m so gonna freak out and try to use it. But first thing’s first. When we reach this Dune City, I’m gonna find a map and figure out where the hell I am.
Speaking of the city, it was by what the griffins told me, it was a outpost of sorts. While the city was a center trade route, it also was considered a free fortress. Whatever that meant. It was also the only connection to the rest of world for these farmers. Apparently, we were in a huge wasteland that spanned across the dry countryside and was barren for miles on end. Dune City was one of a few safe heavens in the ironically named wasteland. When I asked how this came to be, the elder told about the Great Wars. And man, it was some of the most scariest shit I’ve ever heard of. Basically from what I got out of his brief history lesson, it was medieval times having a near worldwide cold war era. Except these magic weapons got hot and messed the world up in more ways than intended.
Yeah…. That’s totally what you’d expect from a magical land of mythical griffons. In fact, this country is still coming back from the ashes. Yet still struggling from the aftermath a little bit under a few hundred years. Similar to Germany after world war one, griffins were the butt of the joke. Similarly to earth’s history, the world hasn’t given a damn about the griffins for centuries, or if there is a world out there to begin with.
Yet, as fascinating as it was learning about this world, he was only one source. Like anyone else, I can’t just base over a few hundred years worth of history on one person. That’s insanity. Besides his vivid history lessons, I mostly focused on where we were going. The city itself was made of ‘melted stone’ as he called it. Thanks to this forgotten building material, the city has been standing strong like that of roman concrete. In fact, I’m betting it is something akin to roman concrete.
Surprisingly, they weren’t asking that much from me. May it be I’m scary or just too strange for them, I don’t know. I don't pester them too much, so most of the time, we walked in silence. That is until that adorable devil came and hugged me outta nowhere.
“Wut.” Is all I could say as the fluffball hugged me.
“Even though mum said no, I think you needed a hug. Do you like hugs?” Goddamnit he is so ficking cute! I might as well have a heart attack by now.
“They are nice when needed.” I strained out. He gasped out in excitement as he stared up at me. I don’t know how, but I should die by heart failure any minute now. I can’t take this much!
“What’s dis?” He asked, poking the stainless steel barrel of my shotgun. Taking a moment breathe in some air, I looked back down at the little griffin.
“That is a shotgun my little friend.” I told, he didn’t seem understand my answer, so I continued.
“A shotgun is one of my hunting tools.” I answered simply. He gasped again, looking at the firearm like a raccoon dose with anything shiny.
“What does it do!” He asked eagerly, trying to pry it from me.
“If you keep trying to take it, how am I supposed to explain it?” I rhymed, getting him to giggle as I slung it off of my shoulder.
“This shotgun is one three similar tools I have on me. This thing shoots a bunch small metal balls a supersonic speeds that take down anything in their path.” I explained, letting him observe the gun closer.
“While I don’t use it that often, I use this shotgun for when I come across a angry bear or something alike.”
“Can it kill a Bugbear?” he asked, flapping his wings excitingly. Before I could even question such a monster ever existing, I noticed that we were approaching the main road to the City. While that wasn’t to important, what caught my eye was something very disturbing. Much more than a Bugbear.
Off in the horizon was a huge lion bat scorpion monstrosity. It stood over a dozen mutilated griffin corpses, ripping the dead with it’s maw. And in it’s eye, I saw a beast gone rabid with no logical reasoning. The rest of our group quickly noticed the bloody mess and the monster ahead.
“Run.” I started, pushing the fluffball to the others. The griffins needed no more words as they retreated back, grabbing their pitchforks as the four male griffins formed a protective wall. The beast looked up, noticing us and our movements. But what it saw was me standing there out in the open with my shotgun aimed ready. It observed me for a moment before charging madly. Without a second thought, I aimed down and pulled the trigger. The buckshot spewed out like fire and stuck the charging monster. It tripped upon the sudden blast and fell into the dirt, roaring in pain as the burning lead shredded into its flesh.
*Chuck-Check* *BOOM*
I fired another shell into the beast, this time pumping lead into its left shoulder and left wing. The monster roared in agony as it failed to get up. Closing in, I pumped the shotgun and ejected another shell. The lion cried in pain, trying to crawl away. With a boost of my wings, I jumped up and landed right before it. Quickly, I aimed the barrel at the base of it’s skull. The hideous hybrid let out a final cry as I blew it’s head into gore confetti, ending it. Observing my work, I grabbed a shell from the bandoleer and began reloading.
After loading the shells, I pried my gaze away from the death and towards the griffins behind me. I swore their eyes grew the size of dinner plates by my actions.
“Dinner anybody?”
After dealing with the shell-shocked griffins, I eventually convinced them to help me gut the Manticore as it was called. Speaking of that monster, it was huge! I mean, I’ve killed all kinds of game before, but this was the biggest one yet. It was nearly twice as large as a Black Bear and had huge wings. It also had a poisonous tail that could paralyze its prey with one puncture. Thanks to my shooting, most of the meat was unharmed and edible. Besides the dead monster, we had the dead griffins on our hands… Ermm, talons now.
Anyway! They were torn to shreds, barely recognizable from mushy gore. Not even enough body left to have a proper burial. So I did the next best thing.... Loot the bodies. What? The dead don’t care about their valuables, there dead! While there was nothing really salvageable, they had a few pouches of gold coins. These coins were known as “Bits” and were accepted worldwide as currency. When I asked about how trading bits worked, they looked at me like I was stupid, yet they explained it to me. I think they answered all of my questions out of fear. I mean, killing a monster three to four times your size without a scratch is impressive, but with such ease of my weapons-
Wait…
Weapons...
That’s it! They don’t just feared me, they are just scared of the unknown! I may be totally strange to then, but my weapons are probably like nothing they had ever seen. I might have as well have shown a caveman my guns and used it to kill the powerful monster. No wonder they're scared shitless. I’m an enigma with power and they don’t know how to properly adapt to it. I could… No. I’m not gonna just take full advantage of them. That’s just wrong in my book.
Besides the realization, I helped with gutting and packaging the meat. Yet another problem raised. They didn’t want to take the meat. Why? Well, it was my kill apparently. Before I could just facepalm my brains out, it made sense. They are predators and if I was to eat something they killed, it would be socially wrong in their eyes. After all, I was too, a hunter. Why did I not pick that up in the first place?
Anyway, as hesitant as they were from taking the food, I assured them that I didn’t need all of that meat to myself. Eventually, I convinced them that it was payment for their help and for anything that arises in the future. So they helped in finishing the gutting and we stored the meat onto a cart. After we settled that, we continued our way towards Dune City.
Author's Note
All I really want to say that I am welcoming any good criticism, questions, and suggestions towards this story. I am working hard to improve my writing skills and become the best I can be.
On Redux notes:
Jack's Armor is basically a mix of normal Steel Armor and Dragon Carved Armor , which is a mod made armor for Skyrim. Obviously, the armor is shaped for our displaced blue jay griffon. The gauntlets are much more thinner and gloveless for his talons. His rear/underside is protected with big carved plated metal parts designed similarly with the rest of his armor's getup. Sorry if anyone could't understand his getup, I struggled with describing his armor.
This is what his strange dagger looks like, can anyone guess where it's from?
Also, great thanks to all that have stuck with me. And as anyways, best of luck to you all!
-Grave Walker
Chapter 1: Strange Yet Stranger [Redux]
Author's Note
Prepare for the shitbuckets people! Also, anybody catch that Connan reference?
Chapter 2: Attack At Dune City! [Redux]
Dune City, not a spectacular sight as I thought it would be. While the description given was accurate, it just didn't look as marvelous compared to human ingenuity and creativity. Yet, I can’t deny that it was straight to the point in its purpose. The walls looked quite formidable, even with the many battle scars it held, the walls stood strong. The ‘city’ was built rather ingenious if I do say so myself. I may not have a degree in architecture, but I do know when I see good strategy and tactics. The city itself was split into two by two separate walls. There was the outer wall, thick and strong for taking most of the beating. And then there was the supposedly smaller inner wall. I was told it was in more pristine condition as it hadn’t faced much damage and had some engraved art if that was to be believed.
Past the tall battle scarred wall, was the commoners living space. Homes were either rebuild with scarp and bricks or made use of the old storage buildings that originated with the fort turned city. But based on what I gathered, the place was more of a large town then a simple city. The name is just there because of all the trading traffic it gets.
Coming back to the Dune City’s design, the first wall also held a few local business and two local inns. But after passing all the homes and the commoner markets, then came the second wall. This wall blocked off the commoners and travellers from two big storage houses, a palace, and the guards barracks. That is what the old griffin told me at least. I’m guessing there are rooms for ambassadors and other such noble stuff as well. Basically, that was all I could get in details about the city’s layout. As for the who ran the city, it was some large griffin named Lord Titan, who now rules over the city. The old girfion mentioned something about him not always being in power, but he got tired of talking. And just like a cat., the old father took rest on top of their luggage in the large cart.
As we got closer to seeing Dune City’s gate, I really saw how old this place must have been. And obviously must have been built brilliantly for fending off invading land forces such as those savage dogs, yet I saw a problem. The town sized city was built to defend from land dwelling forces, not huge aerial monsters such as a huge fire breathing dragon. And that is a really big problem.
“What are you staring at?” One of the griffin guards asked argerly. They had been keeping a really close eye on me ever since I got here. And more so when seeing that I was armed.
“I am calculating our chances of survival from a dragon attack.” I started sarcastically, holding in a chuckle while looking back at the guards. They wore a simple clothes with some scraps of hide armor. All of them were adorned with a bronze colored bucket of a helmet. The main weapon of choice was surprisingly, a Spear with a long steel spade spear. I also noted that they had studded wooden club as side arms. Not really suited to their ability of agility and flight. I would personally arm them with longswords and some crossbow as they could take that to a better advantage. Have they invented crossbows?
“And based on what I have observed, your defenses are very vulnerable to a large dragon attack.” I stated, caused to guards to question my interests as they lead us through the gates.
“There hasn’t been any dragons this far north since the great war.” A griffin stated out, standing out among the ranks. And that griffin was she if my ears weren’t mistaken. She wore more refined armor with a metal chest plate and had an authoritarian status among the others. The farmers quickly bowed down to her. Weather it was of respect or the likes of fear, I couldn’t quite tell.
“I need to speak to whoever is in charge of this hold.” I asked, looking straight into her amber eyes. She seemed a bit surprised, yet held her expression neutral as she circled around me.
“And who might you be? Requesting Lord Titan's time like common folk?” She asked as she observed me, looking as if she was testing my skill and strength with her gaze.
“It is urgent that me and these survivors warn Lord Titan of the impending danger that lurks.” I told, insisting the urgency in my voice. I also began checking her out as well. Not as if she was hot or anything… I think... Damn it brain, not now!
“You didn’t answer the question, Pureblood. ” She hissed the name, resting her claws on the hilt of her sword. Oh yeah, she had a long saber on her as well. And what the hell does 'Pureblood' mean anyway?
“I’m Jack… Jack Cobalt.” I spoke out. Why I did just changed my last name on the fly? Um… It at least sounded way cooler. Now that I think about it, the name aint that bad, and it matched my new form quite well. I’m a Blue Jay mixed Snow Leopard griffon. Cobalt in know as a deep cyan like blue, so it matches me.
“Well then Jack Cobalt, why is a Pureblood all the way out here with farmers nonetheless?” She asked, still pronouncing those words with great disdain. And it seems she is quite insisting that I give her some info, exspcails with that grip on the her sword. I think carefully for a moment before speaking.
“My whereabouts are none of your concerns. What is concerning is that fact that a dragon has just attacked a village not too far from here.” I stated, jesting my hand towards to griffin farmers.
“They are the sole survivors from this attack and believe that it will strike again.” I spoke again. This time, I was starting to see the gears turning in her head.
“Is this true?” She asked them. Before any of them could speak, a blaring roar screeched across the sky. I’m starting to get some video game vibes right now. She quickly took flight and spotted a red dot in the distance.
“Guards! Alert Lord Titan and his Legion! Get everyone inside their homes now! We have a dragon coming our way!” She ordered, sending her troops out as she gave out multiple commands. Everyone seemed to know what to do as guards took to arms as the civilians hunkered down.
“You three! Take them to Lord Titan and-” her voice was overshadowed by the fury of a dragon’s roar. I looked up and saw the red demon charging like a train at full speed. Quickly, I got to cover as it dived by, letting out a torrent of flames upon a group of guards. I stared, utterly shell shocked as I watched a dozen griffins slowly burn to death, screaming and flailing around in agony.
I don’t know what happen next, nor can I really explain the great depth, but I felt something break in me. Something spontaneous, yet powerful all the same. I could say something akin to that of a spark. Most should run in this situation, fleeing for their lives at the sight of this flying demon. I know this, but for the love of me, I felt so pissed that fear wasn’t anywhere on my mind. A burning hatred for the murdering monster, it just consumed me whole. I felt my heart rate increase to light speed as everything slowed down to an almost unnatural level. I looked around, seeing the damage as many tried to put out the fires as other fled.
I then looked up, only to see a fireball coming at me. Time seeming to quickly catch back up to me as I barely dodged the blast. Heat scorching my sides upon impact, I rolled a bit before hitting my head on a rock. I felt everything go black for a moment before awakening again. For a few moments, everything was dizzy and blurry, but that quickly faded away as time was fully sped back up. Groaning, I felt the familiar throbbing pain running all over my head. Must have gotten a concussion. Trying to get back up, I quickly dusting the still burning ash off my body. How long did I black out? I quickly halted my movements as I realized that I was right next to the red monster.
A bit too close for comfort in my mind, I looked at what occupied the dragon’s attention. Standing right in front of the dragon was the scared farmers huddling together in fear. The Dragon had it’s maw open, just ready to bring out another blazing burst of flames.
I then did either the most heroic, or the most stupidest thing in my life. I drew my gladius high and charged madly. It didn't even have the chance to look at me before I jammed the black blade into its eye, only stopping at the hilt. Nearly going deaf from the screeching banshee, I was quickly smacked away like a fly and sent tumbling across the dirt. Groaning, I noticed that I lost grip of my sword as it was still lodged in the dragon’s bleeding eye.
Getting on all fours, I checked myself and found myself only to be bruised. Seeing that I still had my Remington 870 on me, I smiled with malice as the idea popped into mind. Switching the safety off, I gave a mighty battle cry, charging at the pain driven dragon. The beats took notice and open its maw, ready to turn me into ashes.
But that is what I wanted.
Right before it let loose, I jumped up into the air and fired the three inch shell worth of choked buckshot down it’s throat. The dragon instantly reared back in shock and coughing pain, falling onto its right side while clutching it’s stinging throat. I barely missed the huge swatting claws by mere inches as I rolled away and scurried back onto my feet. After catching my breath, I saw that the dragon laid on it’s side, choking himself as the lead burned into its flesh.
“Eat lead motherfucker!” I yelled out as I let lose more buckshot, chipping and tearing the softer underbelly scales off of the beast. Yet as fate would have it, my gun soon clicked empty.
“Shitbuckets.” The next thing I know, I’ve been suckerpunched by the fast and very furious dragon. Hurling in the air like a baseball, I slammed into the wall, cracking some bones upon impact. Groaning through my clenched beak, I rolled over onto my back, only to regret that even more. I felt some bones grinding against flesh and nerves. Now I too, was writhing in absolute pain.
“Jesus Christ that ficking hurts!” I yelled out, feeling the burning pain of my bruised muscles and that of splintered bones. Remarkably, I pushed through the pain and got back up. Relying mainly on my adrenaline to keep me going, I quickly searched for my enemy. Yet as if God himself had demand death for me, I nearly fainted as I met the pissed off dragon face to face.
“Burn.” It ached out, terrifying me down to my core. Welp, I'm done for! Yet right as it was about to turn me into roasted chicken, a few spears stabbed into the dragon’s damaged hide. Both of us looked to find that the guards had regrouped, aiming more spears and firing arrows. The dragon took a few steps away from me, trying to block the waves of shape toothpicks. Taking advantage, I slung my rifle and quickly aimed down the scope.
Betting all hope on lady luck, I pulled the trigger. The bullet blasted out of the barrel and somehow, by ridiculous levels of stupid luck, landed dead on target. The metal bullet struck through the other eye and into the brain. The dragon dropped dead like a gigantic boulder, shaking the ground upon impact. For a few moments, the everyone stared as it laid there, motionless.
“Holy shit! I think that did it!” I shouted out, coughing a spurt of blood. Nearly falling over, I leaned on my rifle as I continued to stare with glee. Making use of my rifle for a crutch, I began limping towards the dead dragon, with overwhelmingly crazed happiness. As I hobbled onward towards the dead dino, I took notice of the faces that the others held. Surprise, wonder, and fear were a few to name off. Ignoring their complete shock and awe, I soon was mere feet away from the behemoth.
I did nothing but stand there, observing the dead beast. The dragon that I, fought and killed. Letting the realization settle in, I began to giggle madly with revelation. I continued to laugh like a madman, observing my work. All of my anger seemed to just melt away as I stared at it, laughing all the while. My sanity was on the verge of breaking off as I continued to comprehend this madness.
I'm been turned into a griffin, that alone is bound to mess with anyone's mind. Then I saved other griffins from savage dogs and slayed a scary rejected Pokemon. And lastly, I alone saved an entire city from a flying, fire breathing dragon!
Goddamnit! My mind is tired of this bullshit! I just want to wake up from this crazy dream and go home! Yet I knew that this was real. Even how ridiculous it is. Hell! Mythological creatures becoming real and sentient with a mix of nuclear magic weapons dropped, this is just plain insanity! Yet it feels too real to be a dream of any kind. Know what? God hates me!
My thoughts continued to rant on as there was no logic to be seen. I eventually set that shit aside as I brought my bigger problems at hand. My body is damaged with some broken bones. I need to get some medical help if I'm going to recover. Yet I need to grab my sword. Still chuckling like a kid in candyland, I coughed some blood before I took hold of my sword, prying it from the body.
Yet as soon as I touched the handle, the most cliche shit happened. I felt a sudden wave of warmth pass over me like a breeze. As if gallons of steaming warm water was dumped on me, I sighed, letting it soak me. Not caring what was happening anymore, my brain had enough. The pain in my body began numbing away as waves of golden mist healed my broken body with speeds on par with the likes of Wolverine. My vision turned to pure yellow as I felt my fatigue melt away with strength of a thousand warriors.
Sighing again in relief, my wounds sewn themselves back together as torn flesh and broken bones became fixed. Hell, I felt them become stronger than before. Yet as it was empowering my body, my mind and spirit felt the relaxation all the same. I drew the sword out effortlessly and stood still, absorbing the rest of golden dust as if it was a natural occurrence. My sight quickly faded back to normal as I saw that the dragon was no more. All that remained was the steel strong bones and mighty red scales. Blinking a few time, I began to process what just happened.
...
Did I just do a dovahkiin!? When did I turn into the ficking Dragonborn? How did I even do that shit!? I’m not even that badass! Know what, fick it! I’m done with this logic! Fick physics, I’m going with magic. I guess god does love me! Okay, this is a completely new world, new laws, new... Life? Hell! Everything from before is gone! I may ever get to go back! Yet I have a new body and possibly a new life even!
“Holy gods above! I’m the freaking Dragonborn!” I shouted out, not caring what they think. I’m probably down with utter madness in their eyes, but who cares! I just shot down a dragon and took it’s soul! I’m the fucking badass of this world! I feel like I could take on the gods themselves!
…
Okay, I really need to calm down. I’m scaring these people shitless with my actions. Now, take breather and calm down. Breath in, breath out. Inhale, Exhale. Okay, I need to show that I’m not a demon or something alike. Maybe sheathing my sword would be a good step?
I’m such a dumbass sometimes.
Sheathing my gladius, I looked away from the dragon skeleton and towards the griffins. So far, they were still having their awe meter spiked. Turning towards them, closed my eyes and took in another breather.
“Okay, I know I just slayed a bloodthirsty dragon and possibly saved this city single handedly, but please know that I don’t mean any harm towards you people.” I started, doing my very best to calm them down before they panicked. The last thing I need is to be chased outta town with spears and pitchforks.
“Who are you?” Asked another griffin as he held his burned arm.
“I am Jack Cobalt of... Valenwood. Yeah! Know that I come in peace and that I need to speak with your leader!” I told, trying hard to sound diplomatic as possible. Only this time, I really was failing at it.
“And what do you want of me, Jack Cobalt of Valenwood?” Came in another voice from behind me. What caught me off guard was the freaking size of this griffin. While I have noticed the size difference between me and the others males griffons, this guy was a giant. He had silver on brown fur with golden bronze feathers with spots of white. Also, he had grand wings to account for his size. He was noticeably ripped with muscles as they bulge through his fur! Damn. This guy must be like the Arnold Schwarzenegger of Griffins! Just without the voice. If he did have the voice, that would make him even more badass! He flew down with a groups of heavily armored griffons in toll.
“Lord Titan!” Following out with the announcement, the guards stood strong and gave salute. The rest started kneeling, or what it bowing? Whatever, they lowered themselves as a show of respect. Once I realized that I wasn’t bowing... I saw that everyone is looking at me like I'm flipped the bird to pope... What did I do now?!
“Shitbuckets.“ I barely mumbled out, staring at the titan of a griffin... Okay, that pun was weak.
“Jack Cobalt, are you challenging me?” He asked while walking over towards me. Keeping eye contact, I stood my ground, holding in my fear and what was left of my sanity.
“No. I would prefer no strife with you, as I would surely lose.” I replied sarcastically. I tend to joke around when I'm really stressed and scared. And both of those boxes are checked in my book.
“Says the one who slays the dragon.” He remarked, gesturing his hand over the the huge pile of red scales and bleach bones.
“I, ahh... I wish to talk and explain my situation to you. In private of course.” I rushed out.
“What you say can be spoken here.” He stated, trying to intimidate me. And he would have succeeded, only if I hadn’t just been scared shitless by the angry red dragon.
“What I need to talk about is about of my own, and it is to be discussed is both personal and not meant for, how do you put it... Mortal ears?” I insisted, hoping to whatever god there is that my words would work. I don’t want everyone thinking I’m crazy and burning me to a stake. Surprisingly, I seemed to have changed the playing field from a 'no chance of winning' fist fight to real threat all out nuclear war. And his expression couldn’t tell me any different.
“As you wish.” He stated, setting off the mind freaking bomb in my brain as Titan, the big hulking honcho bow down his head to me! What the fick is going on!?
“Guards, get this place cleaned up and get those dragon scales to the Blacksmith.” He ordered, breaking their stutter as they quickly obeyed. Everyone suddenly looked at me as if I was Jesus himself! What had I possibly got myself into now?
“Follow me, Chronicle.” Realizing that he was calling me, I joined him, gaining silent stares of shock and unbelief. Walking side by side, we ventured deeper into the city in silence. As I walked with him, I could only guess and question what I had just done to myself. In fact, I couldn't even understand all the madness going on in my head.
I’m Dragonborn? I did kill a dragon, and absorb its soul and body… Was golden dust it’s soul? Or was it some stupid energy absorbing thing? Whatever it was, it definitely did more than just heal my mortal wounds me. After that stunt, I shouldn’t even be walking around, yet here I am, feeling stronger than I ever was before. Did I level up, like the video game character? Nah, I’m not in some video game, too real. But I definitely just did what Dovahkiin dose on a weekly basis. So I’m now something close to that, right? Maybe this “Chronicle” title is their version of Dovahkiin? Oh god, I don’t wanna fight anymore dragons right now.
While I continued to internally panic, nothing substantial happened on short our stroll, in fact, nothing was even asked from me. We just traveled in silence. This gave me time to bring my brain back in order as I sorted my shit out. Also during this time, I stared at him and saw how he walked. Titan took short strides with less intimidation and more of a natural manner. The huge griffin didn’t ever give any eye contact, as if trying to avoid my gaze. Besides the awkwardness, we soon arrived at the gates to another part of the fort. Unlike the rest of the city, this palace like building was clean and much more presentable. The guards unlocked the gates upon our arrival and let us in without a word.
“I welcome to my home, Chronicle.” And there he goes with that name again. Well, if I remember correctly, Chronicle means something written as important or historically significant. So I guess that name actually fits me quite well. I am, after all, an alien to this completely new world. Do they know I’m a alien? Better yet, what does this title give me? And how long can I keep it? I better not be their grand hero from dragons or something alike. Now that will still be ridiculously cliche.
“I appreciate you hospitality, Lord Titan.” I finally answered back, observing the pillars and the interior artwork.
“Anything for our Chronicle. You are greatly welcomed upon my land Jack Cobalt.” Titan replied, bringing us to a large dining room with slightly higher ceiling. The room itself wasn’t too spectacular, yet it wasn’t quite bland either. I mean, with the huge glowing crystal like chandelier, it basically illuminated the entire room.
“I think after your long travels and defeating dragons, you must be starved! Come here friend and take a seat.” He suggested excitingly. While I am a bit tired, that dragon soul was very refreshing. In fact, how did I do any of that in the first place? Do I just kill something and gain it’s soul? It didn’t work when I killed the Manticore… More the think about later.
“I am appreciative of your kindness Lord Titan, but I’ll have to decline that offer.” I told truthfully, seemingly downing his excitement a bit.
“I have a few bottles Crystal Fall Wine.” He chirped in a cheerful tone, trying his best to persuade me.
“Again, I’ll decline. That dragon soul did stuff me up.” Titan give out a hearty chuckle at my remark.
“Alright Chronicle, what is so important that I need to know?” He asked, grabbing a pitcher of wine and filling his glass.
“Tell me, who the hell am I too you?”
Chapter 2: Attack At Dune City! [Redux]
Chapter 3: Legendary Status
How is this possible? That’s all I can really think right now, especially with the load that just got dropped onto me. Did I not only just jinx myself, but got way more than I thought possible. Apparently, I’m like the second coming of Jesus Christ or something alike to these griffins! But thank god I’m not being worshiped like a holy idol! No, I’m the guy that must save the freaking race and bring about this wasteland country to glory! And the best part, he believes without a doubt, that I’m that freaking guy. This is so not what I want right now.
“Okay, hold it.” I said, abruptly stopping his ongoing prophet speech. Taking another deep breath, I calmed down and proceeded.
“I didn’t come here for praise, Titan. I need to find a way back home. If it’s even possible. ” I said, grinding my beak as I mumbled the last part. Shocked at my statement, he continued to go against my words.
“But Chronicle-”
“I am no Chronicle!” I interrupted again, slamming my fist onto the table.
“I am not who you think I am! Okay!” I yelled while leaning back, groaning as I rubbed my temples in frustration.
“You can’t deny your destiny Jack Cobalt!” Titan rose from his seat, now towering over me like an angry father. His firm gaze quickly signified the fine line I’m walking on. I am a unannounced guest in his town, his domain, and I’m telling him off. Not a good idea jack.
“If you are not the Griffin Chronicle, then how did you not only slay a dragon, but ate his very soul?” He questioned me. I tried to pairay against his logic, but I came up with nothing.
“It is prophesied that a griffin from the heavens shall unite the lands under one banner of blue. A griffin who rules the land with heart and send demons back to the gates of Tartarus. That same griffin will bring the dawn of a new golden age upon the very world itself! Dose one of those sound familiar, Jack?” He pointed out. Groaning again, I looked up at the large bronze griffin.
“You don’t understand! I’m not even a griffin!” He reared back at my seemingly absurd statement. Titan stayed silent for a moment, looking at me as if I was mad!
“Then tell me, Jack Cobalt of Valenwood, how are you not a griffin?” Staring right back at him, I answered.
“Because I'm an Alien.” And silence took over the room again as he processed my words carefully.
“Correct me if I’m wrong, but are you claiming to be from the stars? ” He asked slowly, emphasizing his words clearly while eyeing me with great detail. Looking for any signs of lying.
“Yes I do. I am from a life lush planet called Earth. The planet itself is very diverse with many vast and unique environments. If I remember correctly, around 70% or so of the earth's surface is covered in vast oceans of water and life. I was originally a tall, pale, and hairless bipedal ape known as a Human. That is before I was turned into… Well, this.” I gestured to myself, slightly wincing and regretting that I may have insulted not only myself, but the entire species of the flying mythological creatures. Deciding to not ponder on those thoughts, I continued on.
“In fact, I am just a slightly above average guy before all of this happened. I no leader, Just hiking around and up to my shack and pray for a gross score to mount. I stumbled upon a small cave with glowing rock. Then suddenly, I’m on the edge of a cliff turned into a griffin.” I told truthfully, letting this information settle in.
“If what you say is true, then you truly are the Griffin Chronicle!” And there goes my hope of setting things straight!
“What! No! I’m not the Griffin Chronicle you dumba-”
“SILENCE!” Titan shouted, the volume of his voice sending me onto the floor.
“I will not be disrespected in my own home! Chronicle or Alien, you will respect my title of lordship. Am I clear?” He asked, or rather ordering me with anger, his tone low while striking fear into me.
“Yes sir. ” I quipped out, nodding quickly at that.
“Whether you like it or not, you have proven to be The Griffin Chronicle. It seems Destiny itself has made it so.” He stated. Getting up from his seat, he walked over to me, lending his talon hand to me.
“And I shall gladly see to it that you fulfill that honor.” Grabbing my forearms, he lifted me up onto my feet.
“While you may be from the beyond, the gods have graced us with you as our chosen leader. I do not know or dare I say try to comprehend their plan, but what force of nature can bring a hero from another world? Come, Jack Cobalt, we have much to discuss.” Taking a seat next to Titan, he poured me a glass of what I supposed was wine. Reluctantly, I accepted the cup of… Sparkling liquid? Is this a carbonated fizzy drink?
“To the future of the world!” Clanking our glasses together, we drank our cup’s content. While tasting the supposed wine, I nearly choked at the unexpected, yet all too familiar taste. What the hell?! This is no alcohol! This stuff tastes like Classic Mountain Dew! Chugging the glass down like the Soda addict I was, I drank my cup down to the last drop and quickly poured myself another drink.
“Wow, hold it! Save some for me! This stuff is hard to come by!” Titan words fell onto deaf ears as I was in dire need of some Mountain Dew! Already downed the cup empty again, I hastily reached for more. Nearly throwing my glass away, I began sucking the bottle down, horrifying the Lord of Dune City.
“By the gods! Do you even know how long it took to get my hands on that bottle alone?!” He yelled out as I chugged the last mouthful of the amazing drink.
“What? It’s just Mountain Dew, right?” I asked Titan, seeing his left eye twitch like the wings of a fly as his anger couldn’t be even more present. I swear he was going to blow a blood vessel or something.
“This is Crystal Fall’s Magic Wine you fool! Made out of purified crystals and liquefied with magic. The Empire of Crystals has long since disappeared and getting any more of this stuff is hard to come by! You just drank a king’s worth of riches scumbag!” While I could clearly see that I had just doomed myself, I couldn’t tell if Titan was going to kill me, or spontaneously combust at any given second.
“Sorry?” I stated, not knowing whether I should run for my life or try to make it up to him. Just as I was going to make a break for it, Titan closed his eyes and took a few deep breaths.
“Guards!” He summoned. A dozen or so heavily armored guards came rushing in at attention. Before I could even Leeroy Jenkins this shit, I was surrounded by poleaxes pointed inches away from my neck. Shitbuckets...
“Jack Cobalt is a guest in my home and is to be treated as such. Now escort him to one of the spare rooms and for the love of the heavens! Keep him away from my cellar!” Titan ordered, the sharp ends lowered away from my neck as I sighed in relief. Being led away from the dining room, I was escorted by the guards down the well-kept long halls.
“So are you guys like the CIA or something?” I asked the encased griffins, noting how their armor was much better than the others from the wall. Dressed in some form of gabbason completely encased in layers of battle worn armored plates, calling these huge griffins anything lesser than a tank would be an insult. Having a closer view and inspection, they had more than enough protection from blades and arrows. Just by my observation, I estimated the armored plates ranging from 4mm - 5mm thick. Now I’m no metal or armor expert, but that just seems way overdone. In comparison, the main chest plate thickness is the equivalent of half a penny. 9mm thick metal plate! Oh god these guys have to be hella ripped to wear this stuff.
Yet, impressive as their armor was it merely wear it, the armor was basically nothing when faced to my modern firearms. At least, with only my Mauser. My revolver and shotgun are only gonna dent that shit. Speaking of weapons, their choice was a menacing polearm. I think it was a 15 ceneryish Poleaxe? With the Pike on topn, a heavy axe on one side and a skull knocking hammer on the other side. As of their sidearm was distinguished well crafted arming dagger with silver engravings .
“We were the Queen’s mighty Third Legion. But since the fall of Fort Warbeak and the death of our Queen, the last of the Third Legion have taken refuge here and serve as Lord Titan’s personal guards. So to answer your question Pureblood, if this ‘CIA’ is anything like Honorbound Warriors, then I guess so.” He stated back, surprising me a bit that I got a response from under all of that armor.
“How many are left of this Third Legion?” I asked, gaining a grunt of pain from him.
“We used to be proud warriors in the few thousands. Yet, with the recent betrayal of Allen Claw, only a mere two hundred of us remain.” He sighed as I felt the pained memories passing over though his voice.
“I’m sorry to hear that.”
“Why would you care Pureblood?” He retorted back, seemingly angered at my response.
“I’m the Chronicle apparently, so that’s why. Also, why is everyone calling me Pureblood?”
“Do you not know what you are?” He asked, sounding quite surprised.
“Thanks to whatever sadistic god, I’ve been turned into a griffin. Sorry if I don’t know what is normal for griffins or anything in this world.” I grumbled out. I was stared at for a good thirty seconds from getting a response.
“Well Chronicle, a Pureblood is a griffin who isn’t altered by the magic fallout. Unlike the normal griffins of the waste, you have your vivid colors which is an obvious sign of being a Pureblood. Because you are naturally protected and resistant from the war’s aftermath, you inherit our ancestors past glory.” He said, but I still had one more question.
“I get that, but why name them Purebloods? That sounds like a family linage or something.”
“The reason you're called Pureblood isn’t so much of your family tree. Rather it is in literal terms of your blood’s magical levels. Those who hold magic in their veins are resistant to the curses, sicknesses, and are overall stronger because of it. The many who did not possess such traits are... considered weaker when compared to Purebloods.” The guard seemed a little uncomfortable on this subject. Strange.
“Wait. So anyone with enough magic can become a Pureblood?” I asked, intrigued on this topic.
“Sadly, that is not the case. From what I know, only a Pureblood father and a Pureblood mother can give birth to a magic protected child. Though there is Lexus…” He drifted off.
“Who’s Lexus?” The heavy armored griffin let out sighed.
“Lexus Songbird is… A successful experiment as the 2nd Legion call it. Birthed from impure parents but holds all the qualities of a Pureblood… The rest of the detail aren't any my business as that was the 2nd Legion’s work, not mine.” He told, pausing a bit as he seemed to remember something or trying to forget.
“Anyhow, even with the rarity of your kind, you have many advantages over the other griffins. Purebloods are considered to be royalty as most hold some kind of power or higher position in the land. Besides that, you are the brightest colored one I’ve met so far. And you are also the first one I’ve seen to get their talons dirty in a fight. Definitely a living snowball in Tartarus.” He remarked as I listened to him, taking every word into my memory.
“So I’m not only considered to be a divine savior of an entire race, but royalty as well? How Ironic.” I thought out loud as I was brought to a door. Opening it, I found a neatly cleaned room with a good sized bed the looked fit for a king. Not the ridiculously sized beds to hold five people kind, but the silk sheets and quality sewn blankets were of a king’s quality.
Not even looking back at the guards, I flopped onto the bed as I sunk into the softness. Not even caring about taking off my dirty armor, I embraced the idea of slumber. By now my brain was fried and needed a break from all of this. I’m done fighting against their logic as it was impossible to convince them otherwise. I might as well just go with the flow and get shit sorted. Even if it mean going up against another dragon…
Shivering at the mere thought, I rolled over onto the center of the bed and cover myself up with the blankets. Even in my armor, I felt very comfortable in this heavenly bed. Maybe, just maybe, I’ll wake up and this’ll be just a strange dream...
Oh how wrong I was.
The next day was the final nail in the coffin as some would put it. By morning, I finally accepted that this magical realm of religious talking griffins was reality. Even as ridiculous as that sounds, there was no denying it. This was not a dream or some messed up coma, this was real. Everything felt to real for it to be such. All the way down to my beating heart, I now accepted that I was totally screwed. I had no family to call for, no friends to back me up, and no home to stay in. I was completely alone in this world with not a dime to my name. Well, I had these gold coins… Bits, I think they were called that. Anyway! All I had was what I could carry and thank to my mouth, or beak in this case, I’m now the proclaimed savior of the universe! God smite me now!
Besides my sudden and unwanted fame, I was still very lost on how this world worked. Besides what that elder and Third Legion guy told me, I don’t know shit. I needed to figure out how I’m gonna to do this. I mean, I’m by far no hero. I’m just a guy lucky enough to have moderately wealthy parents and live off of it. Hell, I barely passed high school. I don’t even know kung fu, yet I’m proclaimed a badass! Well, I did kill a dragon, and that was badass… As I thought deeply on what to do next, I stared into a decorated mirror.
“Seeing my face for the first time…” Man, it felt so weird saying that. I heard and recognized my voice, but all I saw was a cobalt blue griffin saying it. I’m probably never gonna get used to this, but I’ll make do with what I got I guess. Besides the weirdness of my movement corresponding with my griffin reflection, I got a good look of myself. Oddly enough, I found to liking how I looked. And strangely enough, I felt some power from seeing myself as well. I guess I am the chosen one.
I had a strong curved black beak with cobalt blue and silverish white feathers. But what stuck out like a sore thumb was the fact that I had ears. Yes, I said that right, EARS! Unlike every other griffin I’ve seen, they had holes on the side of their heads. Me? I got wolf like ears with black tips. As if this couldn’t get stranger enough, my yellow eyes seemed to almost glow with some kind of power. May it be that I’m now part cat or I can shoot magical lasers, I really didn’t know. Anything is possible now...
Besides my body, my cloak was damaged with a few burn marks as well was my armor. While the armor sustained little to no actual damage, it still looked dirty after fighting a dragon in the rubble and ash. Then the obvious reason popped into my mind.
“I need to take a bath.” I mumbled, noticing that I also grime up the bed with scorched dirt and flaked ash.
“Damnit. God, why do you hate me?” I asked sarcastically. As if on cue, I heard a few knocks from the door.
“I was being sarcastic!” Surprised at the sudden sound, I drew my revolver in panic, gaining an quite yet noticeable epp.
“Umm… Room Service?” Calming myself down and holstering the gun, I opened the door to find a young looking Griffin with some cleaning supplies.
“Who are you?” I asked, gazing down at her as I had my talon resting on the holster.
“I’m just a servant?” She stated, unsure with her words.
“Well, what do you want?” I asked again, now noticing how nervous she was.
“Lord Titan wishes to know if you want to dine with him.” She told me.
“Sure. I’ll just need to get my armor off and get cleaned. Do you know where I can take a shower? ” I asked, seemingly confusing the griffin.
“Oh! Um, the bathing rooms are on the west side second hall.” She said, now confusing me a bit.
“Do you mind if you can show me where it is? I’m kinda lost here.” As if on instinct, she agreed and lead me down the long hallways and soon, we were in a large spa like area. There was even a huge swimming pool and a few tubs for cleaning. Walking to a nearby table, I began disarming myself, laying my guns and blades down. I also began talking my armor and clothes off, which proved to be a bit of a problem as I had absolutely no idea how I got them on in the first.
When I did get them off, I put then on the side in a neatly made pile. I glanced over my shoulder to see that the griffin was still there, blushing madly. Having no idea if I was super sexy or her just being totally awkward, I sighed. I’m guessing that it was probably both.
“You know you can go now. Right?” I stated as I got her out of stupor.
“Oh, I didn’t mean to disrespect you! Please don’t fire me!” She begged, getting onto her knees.
“Hey hey hey. Calm down, nobody's gonna fire you.” Trying to calm her down with my words, I walked over to her.
“You did nothing wrong. In fact, you helped me.” Surprised, she looked up at me with hope in her eyes.
“What’s your name?” I asked, lending my talons to her.
“My name? Um… My name is Rose.” Rose said, hesitantly taking me arm and got herself back up.
“Nice to meet you Rose. I’m Jack.” I replied, trying to give a reassuring smile.
“Are you… Are you really here to save us?” She asked, looking at me for hope. Damn it! Why are those eyes so cute?
“I… While I cannot fix everything with a snap, I can do what I can with the time I’m given.” I said, unsure as what I was really gonna do. I mean, I know I’m supposed to save and rebuild a Empire, but how exactly am I gonna do that? Yet my words seemed to bring joy to her.
“Well, I’m gonna take a bath so... I’ll see ya around?” After Rose left me alone, I began dipping into the warm water. Oh good lord that feels nice!
“Oh Yeah… That is what I needed.” I sighed, letting my body soak up the water. Now only if this could last forever… Sadly, everything has to come to an end at some point. After I cleaned myself up, I began cleaning the grime off of my armor. Using some spare rags, I polished the metal plates and scalemail to prime. As I finished putting the armor back on, I locked and loaded my guns with the safety obviously on.
All three firearms were in perfect working condition. But if I was being really picky, I could say I need to give the Mauser’s barrel a good cleaning since it I’ve used it a bunch. I mean, this K98K has served in use of german hands since 1942 and has continued on from some grandpa's war trophy to my elk slaying rifle. Obviously, the scope wasn’t part of the original package, but I did keep this rifle of world war 2 in the best conditions as I could.
As I was sheathing my blades, a knock came upon the door.
“Chronicle, Lord Titan request you to breakfast.” As on cue, my stomach began grumbling, telling me to get my ass moving. Agreeing immediately, I joined the two armored griffins as I walked with haste. When we did reached the dining room, my senses were immediately assaulted with pleasure. I don’t know if they were cooks from heaven or my sense of smell was greatly improved, I didn’t care. I was fixated on the perfectly roasted meat and scrambled eggs awaiting to be eaten.
“Well Jack, what are you waiting for?” Titan said, getting me out of my stupor. Nearly hurling myself to my seat, I began filling up my plate with the heavenly food.
“Why god? Why do you hate me?” I groaned as I clutched my belly. While still in pain, I regret nothing. I don’t care if my body wants to die, for that food was amazingly good. In fact, eating with a beak is different than with normal teeth. I ate too big of bite sizes and now I’m back in bed, ready to just give up on life.
“Which one?” Titan asked between laughs. Oh yeah, Titan was mocking me the entire time. He said that I deserve this for drinking his wine.
“Karma.” I replied, laying my head back down. His laughing soon stopped as he probably didn’t get the joke.
“I’ve never heard of Karma. Which one is she... Or is this god a he?” He asked. Damnit, now we're getting onto religious subjects. That is the last thing I want right now.
“She’s been considered a bitch at times, but overall, she is fair with what you get with what you do in life. Even in the end. Like a good and honest person living a life of ruin will be gifted a afterlife of happiness and prosperity. The evil person living in luxury on the misery of others will face hell both in their life and in the afterlife. At least, I think that how it works. I’m not as religious as you are.” Sliding out of bed, I landed onto my feet… Or paws I guess… Damnit I hate this new terminology!
“Where are you going?”
“A walk.” I replied, all the while ignoring his concerns. I quickly holstered my revolver and I continued to walk throughout the palace until I was blocked by two of those heavily armored knights. Before I could ask them to get out of my way, Titan caught up.
“Chronicle, you cannot seriously be leaving us!”
“I’m not, I just want to get some fresh air. I need to give my head so rest” I retorted, walking past the two griffins and out of the palace. I was met with no more intrusions after that. I continued my walk through the city until I found the main trading center. Buyers and sellers looked at me in awe as I passed them by, gazing over their products. I continued to walk until I came upon a workshop of sorts. I took note of the Griffin working on some red dragon scales. He must be the blacksmith Titan was talking about yesterday.
“So what are you forging with those dragon scales?” I asked, gaining a irritated grunt.
“For thee last time Vicky, dragon scales are not forgeable ya doof!” The griffin yelled back, not even turning his head. I got a closer look at what he was doing. He was sharpening the scale’s edge with a simple stone grinder.
“It’s Jack actually-”
“I don’t care what yee mum named ya, if ya don’t got any business in me shop, don’t bother me!” He yelled, still fixated on his work.
“I’m here to see what creations you’ve made with my kill.” I spoke with more of authoritarian tone this time, gaining his attention. The grindstone came to a halt as he slowly turned his head at me. The face I got was quite scary. The left side of his face was burnt badly as his left eye was a old milky white. In fact, each side was so distinctive that it was like he had two separate faces.
“Yee the Chronicle?” he asked in a low tone, gazing over my armor.
“I prefer to be called Jack.” I simply replied, giving a straight face.
“Yee really slayed this dragon?” He asked, eye widen with wonder.
“Yes, but to tell you the truth, it was a lucky shot.” He scoffed at me, shaking his head.
“It seems all anyone needs is a bit of god’s luck in this world.” The blacksmith told, sighing as he rubbed his sacred face.
“Yeah, lucky me.” I mumbled. He didn’t seem to get my sarcasm.
“Besides yee luck, what do I owe the pleasure?”
“I was wondering what you were making with those dragon scales.” I pointed out.
“Come here, I’ll show ya.” Walking into the shop, I found the room to be somewhat of a mess. Many tools laying in differentially arranged piles all over the room as there was some moldy food on the counter. He lead me down another corner and unlocked a door.
Inside the closet was a bunch of dragon scale weapons. The weapons in particular were odd to say the least. The longer scales were sharpened into short swords and smaller ones were into spears. The red blades were oval shaped and seem to be sharper than razors. There were a few thicker ones that were sharpened into a circle shape. These ones are put on the end of a reinforced handle, making it a ‘O’ shaped axe/spade hybrid of sorts.
“How do you keep the scales connected with the the handles?”
“A crafter are ya? Well, since I can't just drill a hole and bolt em together or made a tang, I grinded a hole here see, into the bottom of the scale.” He showed his example the a scale that had deep oval shaped hole into the weaker unsharpened base. But what caught my eye was that he drilled a six pencils sized holes inside drilled hole at an angle deeper into the red scale.
“While I was figuring how to get em scales to hold strong to their handles, I got the idea grand idea of making the cast with the scale. Since these are dragons scales, their immunes to being melted or ruined by the molten metal. But as ye have noticed, I needed to make sure that the cast held strong to them scales. So I carved six tunnels into the base, allowing the melted metal to have a stronger grip. That way, in battle yee won't see em scales lose or breaking off the handle. This keeps em bond strong as one. After that, I poured the molten metal into em hole see. And with this cast I formed the tang to make the handles.” He showed, as he continued his work at the his forge.
“Obviously, I used different casts to make the different weapons. Like with the spear, the hand is the harden wood staff. So as yee see, the wood slides into the spear handle like dis. Just adda few strong nails into these parts and abra cadabra! A dragon scale spear!
“Very impressive, forging your own medium into the blade to create a stronger and reliable handle. Very smart…” I started, testing the one of the blade’s sharpness by grazing my finger/talon across the blade edge. It was very sharp.
“Thanks.” He smiled with glee as I found his craftsmen's ship to be top quality. Or at least it was good enough to impress me.
“So how long have you been a blacksmith?” I asked out of curiosity.
“Since yesterday.”
“Really? I find that hard to believe.” I retorted, putting the finely crafted weapon down.
“I was the apprentice before that dragon attacked. Old Beakworks fell into the smelting pot. As yee can see, I didn’t make it out unscaved.” He said, rubbing his burt face. Damn, now I feel like a dick.
“Sorry to hear that. I am sorry for-”
“No, ye don’t need to give an apology. But what I want is scales, care to slay any more of em?” He asked, gaining a laugh from me.
“Alright, I make sure you get the scales and bones of the next dragon I slay.” With a shake of our talons, the agreement was made.
God, what have I done…
Chapter 3: Legendary Status
Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter. Chapter 4: Stories & Lore
Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter. Chapter 5: Suicide Hunting Trip [Redux]
Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter. Chapter 6: Message of the Mage
Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter. 