The Dragon And The Guardian

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Hey guys!

Sorry I'm late with the update, I was busy building my cosplay for my party coming up!

Guess who's gonna be the best Denji yet?

THIS GAL!

I'm DEFINITELY winning that $30 dollars!

I'M FINALLY NOT GONNA BE BROKE!!!! UMU

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.;;

I'm so poor… T-T

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Anyways, enjoy the chapter, and sorry again for the wait, losers. ^w^

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As I moved through the desolate remnants of a world on the brink of annihilation, shadows of despair clung to the air like a thick fog. The landscape, once vibrant and full of life, was now a haunting echo of civilization's demise. My mission weighed heavily on my soul—a mission to put an end to a threat that loomed over humanity. Yet, amidst the chaos, I stumbled upon a flicker of innocence—a little girl clutching a teddy bear plushie, her laughter ringing out like a sweet melody in the stifling silence.

Her family surrounded her, their faces illuminated with warmth and joy, a stark contrast to the crumbling world around them. For a fleeting moment, it felt like I had stepped into a sanctuary. I watched as the girl twirled in her mother's arms, the teddy bear bouncing along for the ride, its stitched smile a beacon of comfort in a bleak reality. 

How could she be so happy, so untainted by the impending darkness that loomed over us all? The thought struck me like a blade—here, in this moment, she was untouched by the weight of the world, thriving in her blissful ignorance. I found myself wishing to hold on to that vision, to preserve it against the tide of despair that threatened to sweep it all away.

But reality has a cruel way of intruding on such moments. The next day, I walked through a silent city, eerie and still. The world was quiet, bathed in a haunting shade of red, as if the sky itself mourned what was about to unfold. The air felt heavy with the weight of dread, the kind that sinks into your bones and lingers like a chill that refuses to dissipate. I moved through the remnants of what had once been a lively neighbourhood, each step echoing in the oppressive silence.

Then I saw it—a lone teddy bear lying abandoned in the street, its plush exterior now marred by a growing puddle of blood that pooled around it like a silent testament to the horrors that had transpired. A chilling memory flickered in the back of my mind, one I dared not confront. The joyful laughter I had heard the day before felt like a distant echo, swallowed whole by the brutality of what came next. My heart clenched painfully as I stared at the bear, realising that innocence had been shattered, that happiness had been devoured by a darkness that thrived on despair.

No matter how long, the blood will never come off these hands. Each mission weighed heavier than the last, a relentless reminder that my actions held consequences far beyond what I could bear. In that moment, as I gazed upon the abandoned teddy bear, I was haunted by the knowledge that I had wielded the blade that severed the last threads of hope.

I continued to fight, driven by the ghosts of those lost, even as I wondered if I would ever escape the shadows I had cast. The struggle to protect fleeting moments of happiness seemed futile, a battle against the very essence of my own existence. The faces of those I had condemned flashed before my eyes, mingling with the laughter of a little girl who would never twirl again, her joy extinguished by a choice I could never take back. Each mission was a desperate bid to protect those fleeting moments of happiness, to shield the world from the encroaching shadows. But as I looked at that abandoned teddy bear, a part of me wondered if my efforts were truly enough.

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"The past shows what you've done – the future will show what you learned. You can change the future by what you do today. The best thing about the past is learning what not to take into the future. The future – that's when you'll be sorry for everything you could have done today but didn't" 

- Unknown

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Chapter 5: The Dragon And The Guardian

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The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a vivid array of colors across the sky as the Familiar Forest settled into a quiet hum, its magic-infused flora and fauna slowly relaxing with the evening. Emiya crouched by the fire he'd built, watching its flames curl and dance with every gust of the cool forest air. The earthy scent of wood mingled with the subtle sweetness of herbs he had gathered, filling the night with warmth. In a world so foreign, so detached from what he knew, he found a strange solace here, surrounded by the steady, ageless rhythm of the forest.

Nearby, Tiamat lay curled in her dragon form, her scales catching the firelight in iridescent waves. Her golden eyes, sharp as ever, flicked toward him as he turned a massive demonic deer over the fire, its flesh sizzling with a delicious crackle. The scent was rich and wild, and if Tiamat's subtle shift was any indication, she was thoroughly captivated.

The crackling of flames filled the silence, broken only by her low, contemplative voice. "You seem deep in thought," she said, her tone uncharacteristically soft.

Emiya glanced at her, his expression thoughtful. "Just thinking about… how all this happened," he said dryly. "Not exactly the life I pictured."

Tiamat's head tilted, scales glinting in the firelight. "And what did you picture?"

He smirked faintly, a flicker of irony in his gaze. "Something involving a one-man army, maybe. Not playing chef for a dragon, though."

She gave a huff that could almost be mistaken for laughter. "Considering how skilled you are, maybe it was fate," she teased, eyes narrowing slightly. "For a mere human, you do seem to understand the finer aspects of cooking."

Emiya arched a brow, his tone dry. "High praise from a dragon who prides herself on—what was it? Her taste for destruction?"

"Chaos," she replied, a playful glint in her eye. "And maybe a good meal every now and then."

A comfortable silence settled, the fire crackling between them, their banter lingering in the cool night air. Emiya tilted his head, the faintest spark of mischief in his eye. "Say, Tiamat. Have you ever thought about… leaving this cozy little forest?"

The challenge in her gaze didn't miss a beat. "And why would I leave? I have all I need right here."

Emiya smirked, nodding at the roasting meat. "Oh, so it's the food keeping you here?"

"Don't flatter yourself," she shot back, eyes gleaming. But her mock indignation faltered as she gave him a half-smile. "I will admit, this is the best meal I've had in… quite some time. If I had known your talents, maybe I'd have thought to capture a personal chef ages ago."

"Guess that makes me a rare catch," Emiya replied with a hint of sarcasm. "Though I'm sure a dragon of your calibre could find a way to hunt for herself."

Tiamat's pride sparked back to life, and she puffed up a little. "Oh, I can hunt just fine! But admit it: your cooking is… impressive."

Emiya chuckled softly. "I'll take the compliment. A dragon complimenting human cooking—it's almost enough to make me believe you'll keep me around for my talents alone."

Her laugh was rich, almost musical, breaking the stillness of the forest night. "If you keep this up, Emiya, I just might have to take you with me on a little trip."

He looked over, eyebrow raised. "Oh? Are dragons into traveling now?"

Her tail flicked lazily, eyes gleaming with a surprising eagerness. "There's a place I've always been curious about. Japan. I've heard… things."

"Japan?" Emiya echoed, clearly intrigued. "Never thought I'd hear you say that."

She gave a little shrug, scales catching the firelight. "It's not all battles and solitude, you know. Even a primordial dragon like myself is allowed a bit of curiosity."

"Curiosity or just a growing list of things to eat?" he teased.

"Oh, hush," she retorted, narrowing her gaze at him. "Japan… I want to see it. All its strange little customs, the food, the sights. It would be something… different."

For a moment, her expression softened, a wistful gleam in her eye. "There's more to life than just raw power, Emiya. I've seen civilizations rise and fall, watched lands turn to dust. Once, I even tore my own power apart to create the heavens and the earth. And now… I'm here, just a dragon, doing as I please."

Emiya nodded thoughtfully, his tone growing more serious. "A primordial dragon who's survived the ages and now has an appetite for human cuisine. Quite the turn of events."

"Mock if you like, but don't pretend you're any less curious about it all," she replied, folding her wings comfortably by her sides.

He shrugged, looking away with a glint of amusement. "Fine, maybe I'll tag along. You'll have to promise not to demolish Japan's food supply in a single sitting, though."

Tiamat feigned offense, puffing up slightly. "I'll restrain myself, thank you. I'm more than capable of a little self-control."

"Glad to hear it," Emiya replied, his smile almost warm. "You might even charm a few humans."

"Charm?" Tiamat snorted. "As if. I'm a Dragon King. If they're faint of heart, that's their problem."

"Well, just a heads up: stomping through a town might send the locals scattering. They're not exactly used to dragons."

She huffed, tossing her head. "They'll manage."

Another wave of silence washed over them, and Tiamat watched him, a spark of enthusiasm lighting her gaze. "It'll be fun. And I promise not to destroy everything," she added with a mischievous smile.

Emiya couldn't hold back a soft chuckle, shaking his head. "Fine, if you want to drag me on some chaotic 'vacation,' I'll keep an eye on you. Just… don't expect me to be your tour guide."

Her grin widened, and for a moment, she almost seemed innocent. "Good! We'll make quite the team."

"Sure, a dragon and her reluctant chef," he muttered, though the glint of anticipation in his eyes gave him away.

As the night wore on, they sat comfortably by the fire, Tiamat musing over the prospect of new sights, while Emiya remained grounded in his own quiet reflections. He was leaving behind a place of strange solace, a hidden refuge, but perhaps this was a step toward something he needed.

He stood up, stretching, before grabbing his red cloak and putting it on, grabbing a small sack to put in his makeshift bow and arrows. Meanwhile, Tiamat quickly sealed her cave with a giant rock, before forming a massive magic circle, spinning and glowing in the air before dispersing.

With a stretch of her great wings, Tiamat prepared a spell, the regal dragon glowing in the royal blue light that spun and circled in the cool night air, a shimmering vortex ready to transport them to their destination.

"Well, are you coming?" she called, already standing in the circle, a smile tugging at her lips.

Emiya gave one last look at the forest, taking in its shadows and sounds. "Let's do this, then," Emiya said, watching the shimmering light of the teleportation circle begin to form on the forest floor. "But remember, if I end up in some bizarre adventure with giant monsters or angry spirits, possibly even enraged gods; I'm holding you responsible."

"Of course! Just trust me," she replied, her smile bright and full of confidence.

Tiamat stepped into the centre of the circle, beckoning him to join her. "Come on! This will be the start of something amazing!"

Then, with a deep breath, he stepped forward, ready for whatever lay ahead.

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As the world beyond the circle twisted into a vibrant blur, Emiya braced himself for the unknown, the rushing sensation a force that swept everything else aside. In that fleeting moment, his doubts faded, overtaken by a quiet resolve.

The light faded to reveal the edge of a vast, new forest. The air here felt different—brighter, more alive, carrying a gentle breeze that brought with it the scents of fresh earth and blooming flowers. Blinking to adjust, Emiya took in the unfamiliar landscape, realizing they stood at the outskirts of Kuoh.

"Welcome to Japan!" Tiamat declared with childlike enthusiasm, her imposing form at odds with the innocent glee in her voice. She stretched her wings, inhaling the fresh air. "Isn't it beautiful?"

Emiya surveyed the surroundings, noting the lush, gently swaying trees and the faint murmur of a distant stream. "A change from the Familiar Forest," he replied, deadpan. "No lurking shadows or hidden threats… yet."

Tiamat rolled her eyes, nudging him playfully. "Oh, please. There's nothing here to worry about—unless nature's beauty frightens you," she teased.

"Coming from the one who constantly gets into trouble," Emiya retorted, eyes scanning the forest. "Let's just hope the wildlife isn't as… friendly as back there."

"Like what, demons?" she scoffed, folding her wings behind her. "I'm a dragon! Any demon would think twice about bothering us."

"Fine, but I'd rather not test that theory." He smirked. "No chaotic incidents right off the bat."

With a carefree laugh, Tiamat trotted forward, the forest sounds harmonizing with her enthusiasm. As they ventured deeper, they walked in a comfortable silence.

"..."

"..."

"Hm, this is quite boring." She remarked, giggling silently as Emiya just shook his head, the silence now broken.

She hummed, before grinning. "Shall we tell tales of each other, then? You know, to get to know each other better."

Seeing her expectant gaze, excited–'yet strangely looking like a puppy, which is weird on a dragon' he thought– he sighed, before relenting. "If that's what you want. You go first."

She laughed, before speaking with a more composed tone. "Ages I've lived, witnessing empires rise and gods fall. My very essence was torn apart to create the heavens and earth," she mused. "Now, I'm just a dragon, wandering on my own whims."

"I've seen the beginning, and I will live long enough to see the end, though perhaps even that is no longer guaranteed. The world has long since changed, and I am but a relic long past her time…"

For a moment, a flicker of pride and sadness crossed her features. "But I've learned to embrace it. Sure, I'm weaker now, but I'm free. Free to explore, to live as I please."

She smiled wistfully. "And now, I can indulge in as much food as I want!– courtesy of you, of course~" she said cheekily, and he couldn't help but look at her dryly.

They walked in silence, her words hanging between them until she finally turned to him. "And what about you, Emiya? What are you looking for?"

He considered her question thoughtfully. "Maybe just… a change. A break from chaos. Perhaps even meaning in all this."

Tiamat's gaze softened. "And you think there's meaning in a world where dragons like me are but myths?"

"Maybe," he replied with a quiet smile. "Freedom's its own kind of power. It's about choosing your path, rather than just where it leads."

Tiamat pondered his words, her eyes filled with understanding. "I see. My divinity, once vast, is gone, and here I am—simply exploring."

As night began to settle, they continued, both caught in the moment. "Well, this has gotten rather depressing, no?" She quipped, before laughing uproariously to herself, slapping Emiya on the back with her tail."

"Regardless, together, we'll see it all!" Tiamat declared, excitement bubbling over. "The myths and mysteries of humanity—they're fascinating, aren't they?"

Emiya looked at her with an amused glance. "Human stories mix humour and adventure, though I doubt they rival yours. Like a hero wrestling a giant fish for a magic sword."

Her laughter filled the forest. "Ridiculous! Yet charming, in its own way. Humanity has quite the imagination."

"Well, you're about to experience it all firsthand." Emiya couldn't help but smirk at her eager expression. "Their legends, shrines… everything."

"Then let's begin," she decided, her enthusiasm palpable. "Tell me your stories, too. It's been too long since I've felt so… alive."

The breeze carried the scent of nature, grounding Emiya as they walked on, the forest a tapestry of shadows and light. They paused to enjoy the moment, Emiya challenging her with a small smile. "Alright, but start with your own story," he said.

Tiamat smiled back, mischievous. "Very well. In the beginning, I was chaos itself, born to create life—life that later tore me apart," she said, the story as old as time itself. "But time changed me. Now, I'm a dragon, free to be what I wish."

Emiya listened, intrigued. "And yet, you're here, travelling with me. Why?"

"Perhaps I was waiting," she admitted, her gaze unwavering. "Or maybe I wanted someone to share this adventure with."

He smirked, masking his surprise. "I'm honoured, truly. You, the mighty Tiamat, one of the Five Great Dragon Kings, chose me as a companion. Truly, there is no greater honour than this." The sarcasm dripping from his tongue could've filled an entire ocean and still have some leftover. 

A tick mark appeared on Tiamat's draconic face, before it faded away as she grinned impishly. 

"Don't get cocky!" she teased, nudging him. "It's rare to find someone as intriguing as you. You're not just another meal."

Emiya chuckled, his voice carrying through the trees. "Good to know. I was starting to think I might be your next dinner."

"Not unless you test my patience," she replied, her eyes twinkling. "Now, onward! I want to explore, to see the shrines and temples."

"Well, then let's start with the basics," Emiya suggested. "Maybe a shrine?"

"Lead the way, stoic warrior," she declared. They set off, their conversation flowing easily.

"Hey, Emiya. Can you tell me your story?"

He smirked, walking forward without slowing down. "Maybe next time. We should focus on the city. I think we're getting close."

Tiamat raised an eyebrow, curiosity flashing in her eyes. "You're changing the subject. Is it something you don't want to tell me?"

Emiya gave a nonchalant shrug, his expression remaining stoic. "What's there to tell? You've got your own grand tales. Let's just enjoy the adventure instead of dwelling on my past."

"Just trying to get to know you better," she teased, nudging him playfully with her snout. "But fine, let's move on to this city of yours. I want to see it through with my own eyes!"

"Good choice," he said, suppressing a smirk. "But first, I think it would be wise for you to switch to your human form. We don't want to cause a scene walking into a city with a dragon, do we?"

Tiamat considered this for a moment before nodding, her expression thoughtful. "You're right. Besides, I'd like to see how the people react to me in human form. It'll be fun!"

With a flick of her wings, Tiamat transformed, her dragon form melting into a graceful human figure. Her vibrant blue hair and ethereal beauty lent her an almost mystical presence, even here in the quiet forest.

"Well," Emiya remarked, "now you look like a rather strange, though beautiful, tourist."

Tiamat laughed, her voice light. ""And you, my stoic friend, are quite the brooding warrior. But I guess I can work with that." She snorted to herself lightly. "We make quite the pair."

"Good to see we're on the same page," he said with a smirk. "Now let's get moving—before we attract too much attention."

Tiamat's excitement bubbled to the surface as she ran ahead, her laughter ringing through the trees. She turned back, waving enthusiastically for him to hurry. "Come on, Emiya! You're so slow!"

Emiya smirked, his eyes closed as he strolled forward, hands casually tucked in his pockets. "I'm not slow; I'm just taking my time," he called back, his voice tinged with sarcasm.

"Just hurry up already!" she shouted, giggling as she darted further down the path.

He shook his head, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly. Tiamat's energy was infectious, and despite his usual stoic demeanour, he couldn't help but feel a hint of amusement at her antics.

With a light chuckle, he picked up his pace, striding forward evermore.

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Sooo, what did you guys think?

' And, before you guys say anything, yes this chapter has been updated. 

I reread the chapter, and it was so bad, that I had to rewrite most of it. '

Honestly, I've been feeling pretty out of it for the past few days, so I might slow down on the updates. -_-

To, you know, take some time to actually think about what I'm writing.

I was kind've feeling meh about this chapter, but I think I did okay. Perhaps it's not up to my normal standards, but at least I got something up, right?

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Welp, I'm happy if you all enjoyed. UMU

And yeah.

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Thanks for reading, and as always, like and subscribe :)

SEE Y'ALL NERDS IN THE NEXT CHAPTER!!!

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