Ch.20 Trader Daria - part.2

Ruby, Sapphire and Midnight continue walking until they reached Grandma's house. Grandma looked up from drinking tea.

Grandma: Hello, Ruby! Good evening Midnight and Sapphire!

Ruby: Hello Grandma...

Grandma: Whats wrong? Something on your mind?

Midnight: It's a riddle Daria gave us.

Ruby and Sapphire glared at Midnight.

Midnight: ... What? She asked us what was wrong!

Ruby: I thought we agreed not to ask Grandma for help!

Midnight: I don't remember agreeing to anything like that...

Ruby: We don't WANT help, and we don't NEED help.

Midnight: If that was true, we would've figured it out by now.

Ruby: Do you know what the answer is then?

Midnight: Well... no, not really.

Grandma: Alright, alright... stop making a fuss and tell me whats going on!

Midnight: Trader Daria promised us that if we gave her the answer to a riddle, she would give us anything we wanted from her store for free.

Grandma: And what's the riddle?

Ruby: Me and Sapphire can find the answer on our own! Come on, Sapphire.

Ruby and Sapphire go outside and back into the forest.

Grandma: How does it go?

Midnight: "You always take us down when we are in our prime. Devour your sweet rewards, but I'll be back in time. A child of mine will rise out of his rotten bed. Up from a hidden pit long after I am dead".

Grandma: ... I can see why you're having trouble. Now lets see...

Grandma and Midnight talked about the riddle and after some time, Midnight was satisfied with his answer. Meanwhile, Ruby and Sapphire were trying to solve it on their own.

Ruby: Devour your sweet rewards... devour your sweet rewards...

Sapphire: ... I got nothing. Maybe we should ask Grandma to give us a hint? You know... to put us on the RIGHT track.

Ruby: Where did Daria get this riddle, anyway?

Sapphire: I have no idea...

Ruby: We're never going to get this riddle...

Sapphire: ... want some fruit?

Ruby: We don't have time for...

Ruby suddenly got up.

Ruby: SAPPHIRE, YOU'RE A GENIUS!!!

Sapphire: That's what they all say. I still don't feel any smarter knowing that, though!... Um... Why am I a genius?

Ruby: That's the answer to the riddle!

Sapphire: Fruit?

Ruby: YES!!! "You always take us down when we are in our prime"! We take down fruit from trees when its ripe!

Sapphire: "Devour your sweet rewards, but I'll be back in time" is when we eat the fruit and the tree grows more! You're right, I am a genius!

Ruby: One problem. We don't know what kind of fruit it is.

Sapphire: Hm... well, it must be a fruit with a pit inside... Maybe a peach?

Ruby: What's a peach?

Sapphire: Come on! I happen to know someone who has a peach tree in their backyard!

Sapphire grabbed Ruby's arm and ran towards their destination.

After a while, Ruby and Sapphire arrived back to Trader Daria.

Trader Daria: Ah, I see you return! Tell me. Have you brought the solution?

Ruby: We have. Show her, Sapphire!

Sapphire tossed the fruit to Daria.

Trader Daria: So... Which one of you figured it out?

Ruby: Well... Sapphire and I were trying to find the answer, and she asked me if I wanted some fruit, and... the answer was just so simple!

Trader Daria: And what do you want, Sapphire? Do you want something from my vast collection, or is it something else...?

Sapphire: I don't know what I want, to be honest...

Trader Daria: Why were you helping your friend in finding out the answer to a simple riddle...?

Sapphire: I don't know... I just wanted to help her out because she wanted something so badly, I guess.

Trader Daria: And you feel glad knowing you've completed this small quest in your heart?

Sapphire: If you put it that way... yes!

Trader Daria: Tell you what. I'll give you the first book of my latest adventure series : Blood Moon, Red River. I'm not even selling it to the public, yet!

Sapphire: You'd really give that to me?

Trader Daria: Sure I would! You're something, Sapphire... something different from everyone else. You may not be a Dragon master, or a brave fighter... but something tells me you're gonna go far.

The trader handed over the book to Sapphire and Shadow Warriors Book 7 to Ruby.

Trader Daria: I hope we cross paths again one day, young Vampires.

Ruby: Maybe we will!

Trader Daria: May your lucky stars be with you!

Ruby and Sapphire waved goodbye and headed back to Grandma.

Grandma: Hello again...

Ruby: Sorry, can't talk! Need to find out what happened! Good night Grandma, good night Sapphire! And let me borrow that book when you're finished, Ok?

Ruby raced upstairs and into her room. Grandma looked at Sapphire.

Grandma: Did you get what you came for?

Sapphire: Oh yeah. And a little extra sauce to go with it.

Sapphire waved goodbye and Grandma and headed back home.

Ch.20 Trader Daria - part.1

Later that evening, Ruby sat reading some books peacefully, until Midnight and Sapphire burst through the door.

Midnight: Ruby! Guess what?

Ruby looks up from reading her book.

Ruby: I can't guess, Midnight. Please tell me.

Midnight: Trader Daria is in town!

Ruby: Really?

Ruby instantly drops her books in a flash and stands up.

Ruby: Where is she? Does she have any new books for me to read? I need book seven of Shadow Warriors!

Midnight: Calm down, Ruby. Daria is going to set up her wares at the night markets this evening!

Sapphire: You read books, Ruby? Since when...?

Ruby: I had a lot of spare time for the past eight years, I'll have you know. I had to do SOMETHING in my time!

Sapphire: I guess... but I don't get it... why get so over excited about a traveling trader?

Midnight: I don't get what I scream is.

Sapphire: Ice cream. It's ice cream.

Midnight: That's what I said. I scream.

Sapphire sighs and looks at Midnight in disappointment.

Sapphire: Next time I take you somewhere, I'll make sure it's cake shop.

Ruby: I've read all six books of Shadow Warriors, now I need the seventh : Black Mysteries! I need to know what happened to...

Sapphire: Don't spoil it. If it's as good as you make it sound, I want to borrow the collection. Starting with the first one!

Ruby: Well... I'll give you the first two books. But you have to return book three of Ocean Depths. You borrowed it and never gave it back!

Sapphire: I still have it? I kinda forgot to read it after all those years... Can I still keep it for a while? I'll let you borrow the Forest Justice series!

Ruby: I've already read all of them.

Sapphire: Um... You can have Cloudless Sky, book five! I never liked it that much, and I got a lot of other books to read!

Ruby: Already have it. And I thought you gave it away to someone else a long time ago...

Sapphire: Oh, that's right! I did... Well... I can give you Bat Trainer, book eleven!

Ruby: Don't want it. Already read that a long time ago, and I think I'm not fit for training bats at the moment.

Sapphire: You drive a hard bargain... Fine! How about I return Blazing Feathers, book one? You said you lost yours and I've read it a hundred times by now!

Ruby: Deal!

Ruby and Sapphire shook hands.

Midnight: ... Can we go already?

Ruby: To where?

Midnight: The night markets, of course! Where else? We can have a sneak peek to see what she has to sell!

Ruby: Ok!

Ruby grabs Midnight and Sapphire's arm and races across to the night markets. They arrive to see everyone preparing items among the tables.

Ruby: I wonder where she is...?

Sapphire: Why is this Maria Vampire so famous?

Midnight: It's Daria. She travels across the Island and collects all sorts of stuff! Facing dangers at every turn, venturing across the sea to different lands!... And she's also a famous writer.

Sapphire: So she wrote the so called Shadow Warriors series?

Ruby: Yup! Popular with Vampires at all ages! A lone wolf adventuring into the unknown... UnMythics hunting him wherever he goes! No food, no shelter...

Sapphire: Ok, ok. I get it.

Midnight: Is that her, over there?

Ruby: Where?

Midnight dashes ahead and stops at a table where a black giraffe was setting up books.

Midnight: Are you by any chance Trader Daria?

Trader Daria (black giraffe): Yes, that's me.

 Ruby and Sapphire catch up to Midnight.

Trader Daria: What can I do for you kids?

Ruby: When are you going to open? I really want the next book of Shadow Warriors!

Trader Daria: I'm opening at moon rise, love. You're gonna have to wait a little longer!

Sapphire: When does the moon rise, anyway?

Midnight: judging by how low the sun is, probably half an hour at most.

Trader Daria: Ah, someones been doin' their homework! Tell you what. If you can solve this riddle, I'll give you anything from my shop!

Ruby: For free?

Trader Daria: Yes. For free. Anything free of charge! Are you ready, kids?

They all nod.

Trader Daria: You always take us down when we are in our prime. Devour your sweet rewards, but I'll be back in time. A child of mine will rise out of his rotten bed. Up from a hidden pit long after I am dead.

Ruby: Woah...

Trader Daria: Bring me a solution, and I'll give you the next book of Shadow Warriors and anything else you want!

Ruby, Sapphire and Midnight all walk away from the noisy markets and into the peaceful forest.

Sapphire: What do you think it could be?

Ruby: ...

Midnight: Hey, Ruby! You're good at riddles and puzzles! What do you think it is?

Ruby: I don't know... "You always take us down when we are in our prime"... I don't know what that means!

Sapphire: Well... the next part was "Devour your sweet rewards, but I'll be back in time"...

Ruby: ...

Midnight: That's too difficult. Whats the next part?

Ruby: "A child of mine will rise out of his rotten bed".

Sapphire: A rotten bed? You mean like a wooden bed? Or maybe a coffin?

Ruby: Maybe, seeing the next part is "Up from a hidden pit long after I am dead".

Midnight: Ok... so it could be a coffin that wasn't buried... but the "You always take us down" and the "Devour your sweet rewards" don't make any sense!

Sapphire: Lets have a walk! Maybe we can think of something else?

Midnight: Or we could ask Ruby's Grandma!

Sapphire: That would be cheating! And we CAN'T cheat!

Midnight: Why not? Nothings stopping us!

Ruby: ... Sapphire's right, Midnight. We can't cheat. I wouldn't feel right knowing I played unfair to Trader Daria!

Midnight: Fine... we'll play by the rules... even if there are none...

Sapphire: Oh, stop complaining Midnight! We'll find out eventually!

They wander around the forest until they see the first rays of the moon.

Ch.19 The Eggsaster - part.4

Ruby, Midnight and Sapphire arrived at the R.O.O.S.T. headquarters and started to look around the room.

Sapphire: I never liked Mr. Stonecloud. His name should be Rocksky.

Midnight: Why?

Sapphire: Because if you were a bird, he'd hit your head before you got any higher than the clouds!

Ruby: Focus guys! This is no time to make jokes about teachers we don't like!

Sapphire: If you say so.

Midnight: ... What are we looking for, again?

Ruby: I don't know... anything, I guess.

Suddenly, they all heard a creaking sound and looked up. Ruby quickly takes out the invisibility potion and drinks it. She tosses it over to Midnight and he sips it as well. He hands it over to Sapphire and she turns invisible too. They see Mr. Stonecloud talking to a deer.

Mr. Stonecloud: With the Dragon egg in our hands, the Vampires will have to give up and surrender. They will be helpless without the Dragon champion on their side! This was surely one of Mayor Irontails best plans to defeat the Vampires!

Doc Bramblespike (yellow deer with rocket): Yes. But we're still not sure what will happen if the Dragon egg hatches outside the Village... It might just fly back towards it's master.

Mr. Stonecloud: I don't think so! It wouldn't know who it's master is! Besides, its a baby Dragon. It's not going to be the smartest creature on the island!

Doc Bramblespike: Whether that's true or not, I don't think its safe to keep it here...

Mr Stonecloud: And why not? It's just an egg!

Doc Bramblespike: It's THE Dragon egg. From our research, there is a section where it says "When a Dragon egg hatches, there will be a huge explosion and fire will burst from the egg. The Dragon will only remain true to it's master, and will attack if ordered".

Mr Stonecloud: Should I be worried?

Doc Bramblespike: Very. You're not the true Dragon master, and if the true Dragon master finds out where we're keeping the egg and it hatches, the war will start before we can complete the secret weapon!

Mr Stonecloud: Well get to it then! We can't let the Vampires have the advantage in the battle now, can we?

The deer nodded and dashed out of the room to somewhere else. Midnight started to follow the scientist, but Sapphire grabbed him by the arm.

Sapphire: (whispering) Don't follow him.

Midnight: (whispering) Why not?

Sapphire: (whispering) Ruby needs to retrieve the Dragon egg. You keep an eye on Stonecloud! I'll be outside keeping watch...

Ruby nods and quietly follows the deer. She follows him until they reach an empty room with the Dragon egg on a table.

Ruby: (thinking) Now if I can just get the Dragon egg without the scientist noticing...

Fang suddenly jumped out of the bag and scurried across the floor and stops in front of the scientist.

Fang: (in loud voice) Hello mad scientist!

Before he could react, Fang dashed away and behind the invisible Ruby. The scientist crashed into Ruby and they both fell to the floor. Potions scattered everywhere. The deer quickly picked up the nearest potion and gazed at it.

Doc Bramblespike: What do we have here...?

Ruby: (now visible) THAT'S MY POTION!!!

Ruby made a dive for the potion but the scientist darted back.

Doc Bramblespike: And what does it do?

Fang: It's a strength potion.

Ruby sighs in disappointment.

Doc Bramblespike: How... Interesting... so it makes you super strong...

The deer drank the potion and moved closer to the wall. He punched it, but nothing seemed to have happened.

Doc Bramblespike: ... Nothing...

Ruby: Uh...

Doc Bramblespike: It does NOTHING...

Ruby: ...

Ruby shoved the nearest bottle to Fang. Fang drank the potion, and he started to glow.

Doc Bramblespike: Is that...

Ruby: A glowing spider?

Fang started to glow brighter, until it was painful to look at him.

Doc Bramblespike: MY EYES!!!

Ruby quickly snatched the potion from the scientist and drank it. She hit him in the chest and sent him flying across the room.

Ruby: You shouldn't have gotten out of bed this morning...

Ruby took a drink of the invisibility potion again and before anything else happened, Ruby snatched the Dragon egg and dashed out. She crashed into Mr. Stonecloud.

 Mr Stonecloud: What in the name of...?

Ruby: Good day, sir... and a bit of advice. Never... ever... EVER, steal from a Vampire!

Ruby weaved around Mr Stonecloud and continued running. She dashed out and into the school where Midnight and Sapphire waited.

Ruby: Got it!

Sapphire: We should probably start running?

Ruby: Yup.

They all run deep into the forest. In the distance, they could hear a faint rage screaming noise, probably from Mr. Stonecloud. After a while, they arrive at Grandma's house.

Grandma: Hello, again! Got the Dragon egg?

Ruby: Yes, we did.

Ruby handed Grandma the Dragon egg and headed for the stairs.

Grandma: Where are you going?

Ruby: If it's all the same to you, I'm going back to bed. If anyone needs me, call me in a few hours...

Ruby went upstairs and back to her room.

Midnight: ... So... what should we do now?

Sapphire: ... lets get some ice cream! I hear they have Strawberry swirl flavour, now!

Midnight: I scream?

Sapphire grabs Midnight's and dashed into the misty morning.

Ch.19 The Eggaster - part.3

Early the next morning, Midnight comes crashing through Grandma's door to see Fang drinking coffee.

Midnight: um... good morning, Fang?

Fang: Good morning!

Midnight: Wheres Ruby?

Fang: Still asleep.

Midnight: And Grandma?

Fang: On her morning forest walk.

Midnight: When will Ruby get up?

Fang: Hard to say.

Just then, Grandma walked in.

Grandma: Good morning, Midnight!

Midnight: Good morning...

Grandma: Waiting for Ruby to get up?

Midnight: Well... yes.

Grandma sighs and looks at Fang.

Grandma: ... Fang?

Fang: Yes?

Grandma: Can you wake up Ruby for Midnight, please?

Fang: Anything for you, Grandma!

Fang drinks the rest of his coffee and jumps down from the table. He scurries up the stairs and out of sight.

Grandma: After Ruby has her breakfast, you can pick up Sapphire and start searching for the Dragon egg in Golden Forests school.

Midnight: ... Do you think Sapphire will come?

Grandma: Of course!

Midnight: But how can you be so sure?

Grandma: Midnight, you're forgetting Sapphire is related to Ruby. She will come whether you like it or not!

Just then, there was a yell and the sound of books falling down. They see Fang leaping down the stairs and he dashed behind Grandma. Ruby comes down seconds later with a baseball bat.

Ruby: I'M GONNA GET... oh, morning, Grandma...

Grandma: Good morning, Ruby. So glad you're up!

Ruby: And hi, Midnight... how long have you been there?

Midnight: Not that long...

Grandma: You must be hungry, Ruby! Do you want some breakfast before you pick up Sapphire?

Ruby: Uh... what?

Midnight: Dragon egg... missing? Need to find it before it hatches?

Ruby: Oh... that... well, no time for breakfast then!

Grandma: You'll need some potions before you go, if you're going to skip breakfast...

Grandma handed Ruby a bag full of potions.

Grandma: I've given you some speed potions, strength potions, a invisibility potion, and the new test potion I was talking about last night!

Midnight: What does it do?

Grandma: In theory, it make you glow like a extremely bright light.

Ruby: How about in testing?

Grandma: That's what I want you to find out. Now, off you two go! There is a Dragon egg to find!

Ruby grins and snatches Fang and stuffs him into the bag. She takes a drink from the speed potion then grabs onto Midnight's arm. They dash through the village and forest landscape until they arrived at Sapphire's house. They knock on the door and wait.

Midnight: ... Do you think anyone's home?

Ruby: I hope so...

Just then, Sapphire's mum opened the door.

Tulip: Oh, good morning! Rosy and Marcus, was it?

Ruby: Yup! That's us!

Midnight: Is Sapphire home?

Tulip: Why yes, she is... but I think shes still asleep...

Ruby: Can you check, just in case?

Tulip: Well...

Sapphire: Hi!

Sapphire appeared at the door beside Tulip.

Tulip: Oh, hon... you stayed up till past midnight, and its only six forty-five in the morning! You need more sleep! Where are you three going, anyway?

Sapphire: We... planned to watch the new movie that came out a week ago! You know, before all the crowds got in...and don't worry! We're old enough to watch it.

Tulip: I see...

Sapphire: Bye, mum! Don't worry... we'll be alright!

Sapphire pushed Ruby and Midnight until they were deep in the forest.

Sapphire: That was close... anyway! Why are you here?

Ruby: Another question... were you expecting us?

Sapphire: I'm a light sleeper. No other explanation.

Midnight: Well... someone stole the Dragon egg last night and we suspect it was someone from R.O.O.S.T.... do you have any idea who it could be?

Sapphire: I'm suspecting Mr. Stonecloud, because if I hadn't follow him, I wouldn't have found that letter I gave Midnight.

Ruby: Good enough place to start! Let's go!

They all dash towards the Golden Forest school.

Ch.19 The Eggsaster - part.2

Midnight was talking to Stella quietly, when suddenly Patrick bursts through the club's door with a bang. He lifted his head proudly as he shoved the chest across the room.

Patrick: Stella! Give us all a few barrels full of cloudy fizzy!

Stella: Why?

Patrick: Because I'm the best thief in the history of stealing. There doesn't HAVE to be a reason why we should drink what we drink!

Stella: You'll need to pay me first, in that case...

Patrick: All you needed to do was ask...

Patrick opened the chest and got a handful of coins and slammed it down on the counter.

 Patrick: Satisfied?

Stella: ... Yes.

Stella quietly took them and started to prepare the drinks.

 Patrick: You heard the barmaid! DRINKS ALL ROUND!!!

Everyone except Midnight cheered.

Midnight: ... If I may be so bold to ask, Patrick... where did you get all that money?

Patrick: I was payed not to tell... I have standards, Y'know!

Midnight: So I've heard...

Stella stopped stirring the cups on the counter and Patrick grabbed them. He handed one to Griffin and they started drinking the misty liquid. Stella started preparing the next set of drinks.

Midnight: Where do you think Patrick got all that money?

Stella: Probably stole it from the Vampire Lord for all I know.

Midnight: But aren't you just a little bit curious to find out how he got it?

Stella: Why don't you go and ask him again? You're often very persuasive when it comes to asking people about things they refuse to talk about the first time around...

Midnight: ... Maybe after he's taken a few more drinks I'll ask him again.

Stella: Good idea. That may leave me more work to do, but at least you'll find out.

Stella continued serving drinks while Midnight waited. After a while, Midnight moved towards Patrick.

Patrick: Enjoyin' yourself, Midnight?

Midnight: I would enjoy it more if I knew where you got that money...

Patrick: Is that it? Well, an UnMythic hired me to steal a Dragon egg in a old witches house...

Midnight: I thought you said you had standards?

Patrick: I didn't say they were very high! Anyway... I stole the egg without anyone noticing and delivered it to the UnMythic, and he gave me the chest full of gold. If that makes you happy now, have a drink of something already!

Midnight: If you say so, oh master of silent theft...

Midnight walked back towards Stella.

Stella: What did he do...?

Midnight: He stole a Dragon egg for an UnMythic from what I believe came from a friends house...

Stella: One of your friends has a Dragon egg?

Midnight: Sorry. I should've said the Dragon egg.

Stella: I thought the Dragons left long ago, never to be seen again!

Midnight: Exactly what I thought! Until my friend told me they left their champion behind.

Stella: I see... and who exactly is this "friend" of yours?

Midnight: ... I'd rather not say right now.

Stella: Ok. You can tell me when you're ready, then. I'll be waiting for that.

Midnight leaves the M.O.S.T. club and heads towards Ruby's Grandma's house. When he arrives, he enters Grandma's potion lab where he looks around.

Midnight: I must say... he's gotten a lot better at stealing than I thought! Not a trace...

Grandma: Who's gotten better at stealing?

Midnight turns around to see Grandma.

Midnight: ... A partner of mine.

Grandma: And has this "partner" stolen the Dragon egg that was meant to keep safe until it hatched?

Midnight: Um... probably.

Grandma: Is there any way to get it back?

Midnight: He said he was hired by an UnMythic to steal it... he didn't give any detail, but we could start at the Golden Forests school tonight!

Grandma: Wait until tomorrow. Ruby just went to bed and she needs her ten hours sleep before getting up and going on another mission again!

Midnight: When will the Dragon hatch...?

Grandma: ... It's hard to say. But it is possible that it will hatch any day now.

Midnight: So... if it hatches somewhere else?

Grandma: I'd rather not say.

Midnight: Then I need to find the UnMythic that stole the Dragon egg right now then!

Grandma: It would be unfair to Ruby and Sapphire if you went on an adventure without them. Besides, I'm sure after all that training of yours you're probably exhausted!

Midnight: I'm not THAT tired...

Grandma: I can see through you, Midnight. You need sleep.

Midnight: Fine... I'll get a few hours sleep, then...

Grandma: Good plan. Meanwhile, I'll start brewing potions. I have a feeling you're going to face danger at every turn in your next adventure...

Midnight: Danger is my middle name!

Midnight turned around and headed back up to the surface.

Ch.19 The Eggsaster - part.1

After Ruby and Midnight finish their training lesson, Midnight heads towards the M.O.S.T. club while Ruby heads on home to Grandma with Fang. Grandma meets Ruby on the steps.

Ruby: Hi Grandma!

Grandma: Good evening, Ruby. Enjoyed Sapphire's party?

Ruby: More then I'd expected! I thought we would just... I don't know, do something else instead of doing what we did!

Grandma: That's nice to hear... and training went well?

Ruby: Fairly well. Jack quiet as ever and Melody just as chatty!

Grandma: ... Ruby, would you mind coming with me to the Night Markets? I know you're probably tired from the party and training, but this won't take more than fifteen minutes!

Ruby: Sure. Let me just toss Fang on the table and I'll be right with you.

Grandma waited outside for Ruby while she dropped Fang on the table and dashed back to her. They both head together towards the Village center.

Ruby: Probably just as well Fang isn't coming with us... he ate a lot of sandwiches at Sapphire's party, he passed out on the way here... So why are we going to the Night Markets?

Grandma: I needed a few more ingredients for a new potion I'm making... since this is an experiment, I also needed to get a few milkberries just in case something goes wrong.

Ruby: ... Grandma?

Grandma: Yes, Ruby?

Ruby: I've been wondering... do we know who killed Sapphire's dad, or is it a mystery to everyone - not just the UnMythics?

Grandma thought for a moment before answering to Ruby.

Grandma: ... We know it was a friend of Sapphire's father, but we don't know who he really was... whether he was a potion maker, bat carer, or even a messenger for the Vampire Lord, we just don't know.

Ruby: ... Well, what DO we know?

Grandma: We know he used a poisonous powder called Sweetivy, mostly used by thieves, hunters, and doctors. Thieves use it for drinks, hunters use it for baiting traps, and doctors use it for medicine. But if an UnMythic uses it on themselves, they'll get really sick before dying. Sad, but true.

Ruby: So... he must've put some Sweetivy in Sapphire's dads food... but why?

Grandma: Unfortunately, we don't know that either. Whether it was for revenge, a command from his boss, or he just hated him. We just don't know.

Ruby: ...

Grandma: ... Keep Vampires close, and UnMythics closer...

Ruby: What did that come from?

Grandma: A famous Vampire poet in the great war.

After Ruby and Grandma finished shopping, they return home and into Grandma's potion lab. Everything seemed to be alright except one thing..

Ruby looked around the room in puzzlement.

Ruby: ... Where's the Dragon egg?

Ruby walked over to the place where the Dragon egg was suppose to be.

Grandma: ... I believe we've been robbed.

Ruby: ROBBED?!

Grandma: Yes. By the looks of things, the only thing taken was the Dragon egg.  This could be a disaster!

Ruby: But why would anyone rob from you? Your practically a living Vampire legend that everyone knows!

Grandma: Every Vampire knows, you mean.

Ruby: But why would the UnMythics steal from us? They KNOW we're more powerful then they are! If they took it...

Grandma: We shouldn't jump to conclusions.

Ruby: Fine... we'll file the UnMythics under suspicion.

Grandma: Well... the thief population has been rising dramatically for the past few days... maybe Midnight knows something?

Ruby: Midnight would never tell anyone about the Dragon egg! Or steal it, at that matter!

Grandma: I didn't say that... I'm just suggesting he might know something from the disappearance of the egg, that's all. And I believe you should get to bed, Ruby... You're starting to get angry at nothing.

Ruby: ... Yeah... I'll go to bed... good thing there is no school tomorrow.

Grandma: How come?

Ruby: I don't know! UnMythics are strange like that, I guess... They tell you to go to school, then after a while they tell you to take a day off.

And so saying so, Ruby headed up towards her room to bed. She fell asleep in the next few seconds.

Ch.18 Party time! - part.2

Later that evening, Ruby and Midnight arrived at Sapphire's house and get greeted by Sapphire.

Sapphire: Glad you came to the party! Would have been a shame if you didn't come!

Midnight: I didn't have a...

Ruby punches Midnight's shoulder and smiles at Sapphire.

Ruby: We're happy to be here! Isn't that right, Midnight?

Midnight: (trying to hide pain) Yes... happy...

Fang: Is there any sandwiches?

Sapphire: Yes. I also have pizza, popcorn, donuts, cake, and a lot of other tasty things to eat!

Midnight: Nothing cinnamon related?

Sapphire: Just for you guys.

Ruby: Glad you care about us.

Just then, Sapphire's mother showed up beside them.

 Tulip: Good evening, kids! I couldn't help overhearing about your cinnamon food conversation... what was that about, if I may be so bold to ask?

Ruby: Well...

Sapphire: My two friends here, Rosy and Marcus are both allergic to cinnamon... so I thought it would be nice if we just removed cinnamon type foods from the list all together! No one gets sick, everyone is happy!

Midnight: I'm not...

Ruby punches Midnight on the arm again.

Ruby: Be quiet, Marcus...

Sapphire smiles sweetly at her mother before she grabs Ruby and Midnight by the arm. Sapphire drags them outside and away from the noise.

Midnight: What was that about?

Sapphire: If I told my mum Ruby's name, she would instantly think I invited the species that... did something to my father...

Ruby puts a hand on Sapphire's shoulder, trying to comfort her.

Sapphire: ... And besides. Would you REALLY want my mother to know your real names?

Midnight: ... Yeah, I guess you're right.

Ruby: Lets just try to have fun, shall we? I mean... what could go wrong?

There was a sudden scream from inside the house and the sound of someone jumping on a sick cat.

 Ruby: ... That's the LAST TIME I say "what could go wrong"!

Ruby dashes indoors to see Fang eating a sandwich and bouncing away from some kids on a piano. More screams sounded as Fang landed on the floor and dashed towards Ruby.

Fang: (eating sandwich) SAVE ME!!!

Ruby sighs and grabs Fang and returns outside to Midnight and Sapphire.

Ruby: Fang, what on earth were you thinking?

Fang: (eating sandwich) I was thinking having a sandwich was a great idea because I was starving!

Ruby: But you ate before we left! How can you be hungry?

Fang: You're forgetting its me we're talking about.

Midnight: He's got a point.

Ruby: You're not helping, Midnight...

Midnight grins at Ruby and rubs his shoulder.

Sapphire: ... Anyway. We're going to put on music any minute now... want to watch?

Ruby: I guess... as long as Fang stays here and out of sight.

Sapphire: I'll make sure to get a plateful of sandwiches for him then.

Sapphire goes back indoors and through the crowd of kids. A few minutes later, some rock music started to sound and cheers rose up from the chatter. Ruby shrugs and goes inside, and Midnight follows. They move closer to Sapphire.

Midnight: Smashing party you got going there!

Sapphire: Rock n' Roll is the best kind of music! Its loud, exciting, and awesome!

Ruby: So I've heard.

Sapphire stared out at the kids dancing for a while before grinning at Midnight.

Sapphire: Come on, Midnight! You and I need to dance!

And so saying so, Sapphire grabbed Midnight by the hand and spun him around towards the dance floor. If anyone was watching, they would have thought it was Romeo and Juliet all over again. Ruby just leaned back on the wall and watched as the roaring music pounded her ears.

Ruby: (thinking) This isn't what I would call a relaxing evening, but at least Sapphire's enjoying herself... and I bet Midnight's having the time of his life!

After a few songs finished, Sapphire and Midnight came back to Ruby. 

Ruby: Enjoyed your date?

Midnight: That wasn't a date!

Sapphire: Date or not, I enjoyed myself!

Midnight: ...

Sapphire: ... Cheer up, Midnight! No one likes mister grumpy.

Ruby: Well... we should probably go soon.

Sapphire: How come?

Ruby: Me and Midnight need to train for the upcoming war... so we can at least protect ourselves if we are ever attacked!

Sapphire: Even the sun sets in paradise... I guess I should let you guys go...

Ruby: At least I can say I had a great time at your birthday party!

Midnight: Speaking of which, how old are you today?

Sapphire: A girl should never reveal her age to boys. Or anyone, at that matter.

Midnight: Fine...

Ruby: See you at school, then?

Sapphire: There's no school tomorrow! It's a day off!

Ruby: Well... will we see you anyway?

Sapphire: Yup! I'll drop by at your house sometime at noon.

Ruby: Ok!

Ruby hugs Sapphire then waves her goodbye and leaves the house and into the night air. Midnight retrieves Fang and follows after her.

Ch.18 Party time! - part.1

Early next morning, Ruby, Sapphire and Midnight hurry down the path of the entrance  towards the Golden Forests school where they all talk about the adventures of last night. They walk down the halls of the busy school.

Ruby: But all in all, that was one crazy night! I never thought it was so hard to get pizzas!

Midnight: How come you guys got all the action and I was stuck on berry picking duty?

Ruby: Because we were stuck on "Let's find Wind Diamonds for a crazy alchemist so he can make moonshards for the pizza baker so he can make pizzas for the Dragon that's going to hatch any day"!

Sapphire: Besides... there will always next time!

Midnight: Maybe.

Sapphire: What do you mean, "Maybe"?

Ruby: As soon as the Dragon egg hatches, war will start between us and the UnMythics.

Sapphire: Well... next time when we're alone Ruby, you need to update me on whats going on... I'm not psychic, y'know!

Ruby: I'm aware of that... But we've been so busy lately, I've forgotten to tell you!

Sapphire: That's not the only thing you forgot.

Ruby: What do you mean?

Sapphire sighs and looks at Ruby and starts to act with a dramatic voice.

Sapphire: My dear cousin... Once a year, there is a time when we could do ANYTHING, and EVERYTHING... In that time, we would celebrate a special time... a time of cake, and presents! A time where we would stay up past midnight and dance like never before! Every kid from miles around would come to see the special girl and wish her a good day... And that time shall come again!

Midnight: Um... can I have a English to Midnight translation?

Sapphire: My birthday party is tonight.

Ruby: ... Well... I had NO IDEA! I mean... we haven't seen each other for a LONG time!

Sapphire: I expect you, and maybe Midnight, to be at my house by sunset... right now I have to get to Mrs. Fernstream before the class starts... she's ordering the cake.

Midnight: Isn't it the mother that has to prepare everything?

Sapphire: My mum can have some help from friends if she wants to...

Sapphire waves Ruby and Midnight goodbye as she heads towards the drama class.

Midnight: Why would I go to an UnMythics party?

Ruby: Because it would be a nice thing to do. Now stop complaining and get to a class before I give you an injury.

Midnight grins at Ruby before dashing round the corner towards Mrs. Breeze's class. Fang pops out of Ruby's backpack.

Fang: I agree with Midnight. Why would we go to Sapphire's birthday party? There could be many dangers!

Ruby: I know that. But if Sapphire really has changed, she would add Vampire friendly snacks instead of harmful cinnamon foods... Besides, wouldn't it be fun if we could do something else beside worry about when a Dragon hatches or how to fight for a while?

Fang: ... Do you think she will add tasty sandwiches at the party?

Ruby: It's her special day, Fang. I'm sure getting a plateful of sandwiches is just a snap of her fingers away!

Fang: Yay!

Ruby shoves Fang back down into her backpack and enters Mrs. Redleaf's class.

After all classes, Ruby and Midnight take the long walk back to the Vampire Village. They enter Grandma's house and yell out their home-coming.

Grandma: I see the adventurers are back from school! How has your day been?

Ruby: Average... just like every other day of school.

Grandma: Well, it's for a good cause. You're helping your kind win the upcoming war!

Midnight: That's true, I guess...

Ruby: ... Hey Grandma?

Grandma: Yes, dear?

Ruby: Sapphire's having a birthday party later this evening... do you think we should go?

Grandma thought about it for a minute before answering.

Grandma: ... I think Sapphire would like it if you both join her this evening at her party. After all, you're friends again, aren't you?

Ruby: Yeah... I guess you're right.

Grandma: What time are you suppose to leave?

Midnight: She suggested we get there by sunset.

Grandma: How about you both take a rest before leaving? Sunset is in an hour, so you can leave in forty five minutes!

Ruby: Ok! What do you think Midnight?

Midnight: ... I need to do a few things before we go. I'll see you later.

Midnight dropped his backpack on the floor and dashed out the door and into the evening air. Ruby shrugs at Grandma before heading upstairs into her small bedroom to read. Meanwhile, Sapphire is back at home planning the party.

Tulip (purple kangaroo): Everything is almost ready, Sapphire. Anything else for my birthday girl?

Sapphire: Nope. I'm good.

Tulip: Ok! If you want anything else, just ask me!

Sapphire: Sure, Mum...

Sapphire's mother leaves the room and Sapphire looks around at all the decorations.

Sapphire: I wonder if Ruby and Midnight will come to my party...

Sapphire looked up at the sky as the sun began to set beyond the trees and over the hills.

Ch.17 Dragon food quest - part.3

Ruby and Sapphire stopped outside the volcano Village entrance and took a good look at the view.

Sapphire: The alchemist said that we can find Wind Diamonds at very high places... where should we start?

Ruby: I'll start looking at the top of the volcano... as hot as it is, I'm sure there might be something worth checking out!

Sapphire: I can start looking over at that tall mountain in the distance, then.

Ruby started to climb up the hot volcano.

Sapphire: ... See you in a bit.

Ruby: Same to you. Good luck! The survival of a Dragon depends on it!

Sapphire dashed off down the hill and towards a cliff in the distance. If anyone was looking out for kangaroos, they would have seen a lightning streak of blue going past them instead.

 Sapphire: (thinking) I forgot how fun it was to speed run through a field... have I forgotten how much fun it was to be with Ruby as well?

 After half an hour of tireless running, Sapphire arrives at the mountain and starts climbing to the top.

Sapphire: Well, at least I can say I've climbed a mountain in search for gems for a Dragon.

Sapphire continued climbing the mountain until she reached a resting point.

Sapphire: (thinking) I wonder what Wind Diamonds look like...

Fang: They probably look like diamonds.

Sapphire: FANG?! What on earth are you doing here?

Fang heaved himself onto the same ledge Sapphire was on.

Fang: I followed you, or course!

Sapphire: Fang, there is no possible way that you followed us all the way from Grandma's house!

Fang: ... Yeah, you're right... I hid in Ruby's potion bag for most of the way.

Sapphire: ... You do know what happens if Ruby finds out, right?

Fang: I'm probably going to be put in a moonlit pumpkin pie.

Sapphire: Yup.

Sapphire looked up to see how far it was to the top. Then she looked back at Fang.

Sapphire: Fang... How does Ruby treat you?

Fang: She shoves me, pushes me, snatches me, and threatens me... why do you ask?

Sapphire: Well... You have a choice of climbing this cliff yourself without my help, OR I could throw you in the air as hard as I can... which would you like most?

Fang: I would... rather just do it myself...

Sapphire: Good choice. You're looking for "Wind Diamonds"... I don't know what they look like, but just pick up any gems you find.

Fang starts climbing the mountain looking for gems, and Sapphire waits on the ledge. After some time, Fang comes back with a small white gem, and hands it over to Sapphire.

Fang: That was all I could find.

Sapphire: Either this place isn't high enough, or you just have bad eyes... either way, at least we're going back with something.

Sapphire picked up Fang and climbed back down before speeding through the fields back towards the volcano Village. After a while, she arrived at the alchemists house and entered. She found Ruby handing him some gems.

Fizz: I see you're back... did you find any Wind Diamonds?

Sapphire: Maybe, maybe not... I found this, though.

Sapphire tossed the small gem over to the alchemist.

Fizz: Right colour... right size... this should do nicely!

 The alchemist looks at Ruby and Sapphire before turning to some books.

Fizz: Now go away... I want to do this right before an angry Dragon rampages through my house and burns my books and potions!

Ruby and Sapphire leave the house and decided to visit the pizza baker.

Crust: How's it working out with the moonshard hunt?

Ruby: Well, I think the alchemist... um... whats his name?

Crust: His name is Sodafizz, but he's mostly known as Fizz. Genius in many ways, but a bit... crabby, I guess...

Sapphire: I see... and he doesn't like anyone touching his precious cups that were a gift from his mother?

Crust: Hmm... I doubt anyone would be pleased with that.

Ruby: ... Anyway. Fizz is working on it and he should probably be done in a few minutes.

Crust: Odd... he usually takes his time when making something for someone else...

Ruby: That... may or may not be our fault, then...

There was a loud BANG that seemed to have come from Fizz's house. Sapphire and Ruby dashed out of the pizza place and into the alchemists house.

Fizz: EUREKA!!!

Sapphire: Yes, and you reek of smoke! What about it?

Ruby: He probably did something wrong.

Fizz: What? No! Every good alchemist says eureka when they create something!

Sapphire: ...

Fizz: ... Don't give me that look! I worked very hard to make those moonshards!

Ruby: That's nice. Glad you put hours of work into making some shards for a Dragons pizza.

Fizz: Good. Cause I'm not doing it again!

So saying so, Fizz gave Ruby a small bucket full of blue shards. Sapphire and Ruby both head back to the pizza baker.

Crust: Good! I can start baking those pizzas!

It took a while for the pizzas to be cooked properly, but eventually they were all done. Ruby and Sapphire went back to Grandma with a strange smile on both their faces.

Ch.17 Dragon food quest - part.2

Ruby and Sapphire explored the volcano like Village until they stopped at a strange looking house. Ruby knocks on the door.

Ruby: Hello? Anyone home? Can we come in?

Voice from behind door: I'm not here!

Sapphire: Yes you are. We can hear you!

Voice from behind door: This is a recorded message... I'm out shopping!

Sapphire: If that is true, then how did the tape recorder know we would come?

Voice from behind door: This tape recorder knows a lot of things.

Ruby: Then open up or... or...

Voice from behind door: Or what?

Sapphire sighs and shoves Ruby out of the way and kicks down the door.

Ruby: Or... we kick the door down! Like we just did.

Sapphire enters the strange house and Ruby follows close behind. They find a yellow wolf stacking up books and potions. 

Fizz (Yellow arctic wolf): Why did you break my door down? What did my door ever do to you?

Sapphire: Your door was stopping us getting inside so we could ask you a question.

Fizz: THAT'S NOT... ok, maybe it was a good reason... But now I have to get my door repaired!

Ruby: Well... It would have been easier if you would have let us in when we asked nicely!

Fizz: Can you just ask me the question and go away?

Sapphire: Fine... Are you by any chance an alchemist?

Fizz: Yes... Why do you ask?

Ruby: Well... we have a Dragon hatching in a few days, and we need to feed it pizzas... but the pizza baker here doesn't seem to have moonshards which are an important ingredient to the Dragons diet.

Sapphire: And we heard that alchemists can create moonshards from a special stone over a certain heat for a set amount of time... can you please help us?

Fizz: Why should I help you? You knocked my door down!

Sapphire: If you don't help us we'll do much more then kick your door down...

So saying so, Sapphire picked up a nearby stick. She slowly moved the stick towards some books and pushed them over.

Ruby: Sapphire, what are you doing? We're suppose to be NICE to him!

Sapphire: It was his call, not mine. If he wants his stuff to be wrecked, then I can't complain!

Sapphire moved over to some potions and knocked them off.

Fizz: Now look what you did! Isn't it bad enough I have to fix a door, but clean a mess as well?

Sapphire: Sorry.

Sapphire moved towards some cups and stopped. She looked at the alchemist with a look that seemed to say "Are you sure?".

Fizz: Don't you break those! Those cups were a gift from my mother.

Sapphire: I don't want to, but if you won't help us, I really have no choice... such pretty cups...

Sapphire moved closer to the cups.

Fizz: Ok! Ok! I'll craft up some moonshards for you... just don't break my stuff!

The yellow wolf started to put items on the table.

Fizz: I need some peace and quiet... you two kids go off and play for a bit. I'll call you when it's ready...

Sapphire: Good. If you do a bad job, expect a very unhappy Dragon showing up at your house and burning it down in a few days. THAT will cause you to fix more then just your door!

Ruby and Sapphire leave the small house and into the burning air. They waited outside the alchemists house until they heard a yell.

Ruby: Is there something wrong?

Fizz: Yes! I'M OUT OF WIND DIAMONDS!!!

Ruby and Sapphire re-enter the house to see the alchemist wildly searching for something.

Sapphire: What are Wind Diamonds?

Ruby: Judging by how panicked he is, I'm thinking that's an important item for making Moonshards.

Fizz: Wind Diamonds are the MOST IMPORTANT ingredient for making Moonshards... Without them, I would be making exploding powder!

Ruby: Where can you get Wind Diamonds?

Fizz: Most likely somewhere that's REALLY HIGH...

Sapphire: High like on top of a mountain or cliff?

Fizz: Yup...

Ruby: Then what are we waiting for?

Before Sapphire could answer, she was being dragged off and out into the cold night sky.

Ch.17 Dragon food quest - part.1

Ruby, Midnight and Sapphire entered the house. They saw Grandma making a small list.

Grandma: Kids, listen up! The Dragon egg will hatch in a few days, so we must have something for it to eat when it DOES hatch...

Sapphire looked at Ruby in confusion.

Sapphire: What Dragon egg?

Ruby: The Dragon egg me and Midnight found a few days ago.

Fang: AND ME!

Ruby: You don't count, Fang.

Grandma pointed the pencil she was holding at Midnight.

Grandma: Midnight, I need you to get some Dragon Fruit. Do you know what they look like?

Midnight: Yup.

Grandma: Good.

Grandma pointed her pencil at Ruby and Sapphire.

Grandma: Ruby and Sapphire, you two will have to get a few dozen pizzas from the best pizza baker in a larger Village called FireMore. Here's a list on what should be on the pizzas. I'm sure one of you knows where the Village is...

Grandma gave Ruby a list of ingredients for the pizzas then went upstairs. Ruby and Sapphire look at each other.

Ruby: Well... I'm sure ALL Dragons love a good pizza?

Sapphire: Probably...

Grandma hurried back downstairs and gave Ruby some potions.

Grandma: You might need these potions. FireMore Village is the hottest place on the Island... It's inside a extinct volcano, so you'll need some Fire Resistance potions. And it will take a long time to get there, so I've added some Speed potions to the mix... And you'll need some fire coins for the pizzas.

Grandma gave Sapphire some red coins with a strange symbol on them.

Grandma: The sooner you leave the sooner you can get back. Make sure to give the list to the pizza baker!

Ruby and Sapphire said goodbye to Grandma and Midnight and exited the house. They stop at the Village entrance.

Ruby: So... any idea where FireMore Village is?

Sapphire: Grandma said the Village was inside a  extinct volcano... so I would hope it's somewhere where there's some smoke coming from a black hill...

Sapphire looked up at the landscape and saw a dark smoke rising from beyond the trees.

Sapphire: I'm assuming we can start our hunt over there!

Ruby: Then what are we waiting for?

Ruby picked up a Speed potion and took a quick drink. She handed it over to Sapphire and she took a sip. They both took off like speeding bullets towards the smoke. They dashed through the forests and over hills until they arrived at a dark rock like hill with a huge entrance.

Ruby: We should take a drink of the Fire Resistance potion before we enter...

Ruby got out the glowing red potion and took a drink before handing it over to Sapphire. They both entered and found themselves in a huge cave with lava all around them.

Sapphire: ... Wow.

Ruby: You can say that again!

They both wandered around until they saw a sign that said "FireMore's Pizza Takeaway". They both entered and saw a brown wolf baking pizzas. The baker looked up to see Ruby and Sapphire.

Crust (brown wolf): Ah, costumers! What can I do for you on this very fine night?

Ruby: Well... We need a few dozen pizzas for a Dragon that will be hatching in a few days. Do you think you could help us?

Ruby gave the pizza baker the list Grandma had given her. He looked read the list for a few minutes before looking up at the kangaroos.

Crust: I think I can help... but it will take me a very long time... Do you fine young girls want to do a little job for me?

Ruby and Sapphire looked at each other before nodding their heads slowly.

Ruby: Sure. I guess we can't leave until we know the pizzas are ready.

Crust: Well... It says here that we need some moon shards... Do you know where to get that?

Sapphire looked at Ruby before stepping forward.

Sapphire: I believe you can get moon shards from a certain type of rock that needs to be put in a special liquid on a certain heat for a set amount of time...

Ruby stared at Sapphire in amazement.

Ruby: How did you know that?

Sapphire: What can I say? I didn't mean to pay attention in science class...

Crust: It doesn't matter how you know! I'm just glad you DO know!

Sapphire: Do you by any chance have a alchemist in this Village?

Crust: Indeed we do. You'll find...

Before the pizza baker could finish his sentence, Ruby was pushing Sapphire out the door and into the heat the the Village.

Happy Valentines Day!

Happy Valentines Day everyone! (for the love of chocolate, obviously!)

... Guess What? I've drawn (AND coloured) some more pictures for you guys to enjoy! I had a lot of fun doing these, and I hope you like them!