Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Mango held on tightly to the basket in his hands, trying his hardest to ignore the way the intertwined leaves pressed into his dough, digging in markings and grooves that originated from the patterns of the leaves. He sucked in a steady breath as he followed the older tribespeople, uncomplaining as he waited for orders to place the basket to the side.

On the surface, all seemed normal.

Mango tribesmen carried along baskets of fresh fruit, holding it on shoulders and in arms whilst they chatted freely about the upcoming weather conditions. Canoeists sliced through the water with practiced precision, ripping through the waves as another person within the same canoe stabbed sharp spears in the water. When the speedy action was complete and the spear came up from its watery confinement, it adorned a fish, who flipped desperately to attempt to get away from its death.

All was fine. All was normal.

Mango thoughts chanted, quiet and unconvincingly peaceful as he followed orders to place the heavy basket of fruit onto a large leaf, which was surrounded by Tribecookies ready for work, taking fruit and peeling, sewing cloth together, delicately tearing apart leaves for their fiber, and entertwining sun-dried leaves together in shapes of baskets. Some older men carved wood into bowls, cups and silverware, quiet and careful as they scraped in details and signatures into their life's work.

Mango smiled politely as one of the basket-carriers smiled towards him, congratulating him for being such a great listener and a sweet teen, gently telling him that he was free to leave and canoe as he pleased. Mango nodded, bowing slightly to his elders, more than happy he was able to please them. He waved at the nice man, who waved back within seconds and turned to the other carriers with a soft seriousness.

Mango ran through the sand of the beachy island, the fine particles sticking to the ends of his shorts and the fresh dough of his legs, his sandals caked in it as he headed towards his Chieftain's hut. Brief happiness that previously graced him turned to a sense of worry, worry that plagued him like deep sickness and caused a fluttering feeling in his stomach. The feeling spread through his veins, causing them to feel weak, as if they didn’t push enough jam through his body. His lungs felt tight, and his eyes felt wonky.

He sucked in another shaky breath as he slowed, hands turned into tight fists, eyes speaking of worried-frenzy as he stopped. He took deep breaths to attempt to ease this deep feeling of anxiety, but no matter how many breaths he took, it never once stopped.

His hand slowly grabbed onto his arm, eyes half-closing as he kicked the sand with his feet. His mouth closed into a tight frown as his fingertips dug into his dough, the fearish worry tearing at his stomach and reaching his brain.

Ananas Dragon Cookie hadn’t been seen in two full days.

To anyone who was not native to Pineapple island this would be normal. It would not be shocking for a Dragon to need time to wind down and take a break, but Ananas was different. Ananas was always doing something, always busy- The Golden Dragon was always doing something whenever you saw them. Whether it be changing currents, precisely peeling at food, watching over small children, gentling the qualms of tribespeople- They were always doing something.

Mango thinks it was because they like moving. Being on their feet seems to be a valid distraction during their long weeks, and it seemed they enjoyed the Cookies that lived upon their lands. They seemed to take pride in the things their people would accomplish, they were more than happy to help with small tasks the island asked them to finish. Ananas clearly loved the island as well as the cookies who inhabited it. No matter how old or how different, Ananas seemed to cherish each and every one of the cookies.

Mango could even recall Ananas keeping busy by taking care of him and Artichoke when they were small. The Dragon seemed entertained by the antics of the two, they’d even complement Mango’s bravery and Artichoke’s musical inclination. Ananas was the one who gently guided them to their paths- Artichoke to drumming and Mango to canoeing.

Ananas was the true soul of the island. Everyday was an important day to them, everyday was a day worth coming out for.

At least, that’s what Mango had assumed.

Now, with the Dragon gone, Mango felt... obscenely worried, and he could tell from the glimpses of looks and emotions from older cookie’s faces that they felt the same way. Something was wrong, and Mango wasn’t sure if any of them knew of what it was. Mango took one last deep breath, facing the leave-twined stone huts as he resumed his confident step.

He walked through the pathways of his hometown, waving politely at passersby who’d wave back. They tried not to show it, but the moment they thought they were out of eye-distance, they’d frown with troubled expressions. Their faces would contort into worry, their eyes would shine with the light of concern. Their very gestures spoke of the severity of the situation surrounding the islands, something to be worried of, something improbable and yet occurring as they walked through town.

Mango padded through paths confidently, not letting the adults know they knew, Not letting them think he was upset. It was the least he could do for them. They needed solace- some kind of solace- and thinking the children wouldn’t know should be enough for them.

As the crowds of cookies dwindled, he took a final breath. Silently, he frowned and closed his eyes, brushing off sand and debris as he flapped his hands to allow some nervousness to escape him. When his eyes opened once more, he was face to face with the Chieftain’s hut, a marvelous structure that housed the most important cookie upon this island.

Leaves adorned the stone-made hut, twining into beautiful art the Dragon had helped prepare long ago. Vines hung in front of the hut, drifting softly with the low winds that covered the hushed whispers of conversation, adult voices talking in worried voices, quiet and yet too audible. Mango brought up some of his courage, quiet as he took a final breath. “Chieftain, I request your guidance.”

The whispers stopped for a moment and Mango was sure the elders were looking at each other, silent in communication as they wondered what Mango needed. Soon, the Chieftain’s voice rang out, gentle yet firm as they spoke. “Come in, my child.”

Their old voice was welcoming, loving and adoring as always. Mango walked in silence, smiling and waving gently at the elders, who hid their worry dutifully with practiced smiles and pretend ease. Looks Mango found it easy to look through, to watch and judge and begin to remember what pretending was. Mango had learned the practice years before, although no one truly knew of his prowess upon the ability.

Mango walked with his practiced ease, pretending that nothing was wrong and all was right. That calm was true and all was fine. He addressed the chieftain with a bow, lifting up with a less-confident smile, eyes gentle as he watched the Chieftain’s face gently drift into a smaller smile, eyes opening to watch with gentle intent.

“I apologize for interrupting your meeting, but I only wish to know the answer to one question.” Mango started, expression turning into an apologetic half-smile as they spoke. The Chieftain nodded, gesturing for him to continue, and so he did. “What is wrong with the Great Dragon? They haven’t at all been seen in two days, which is very irregular of them. I worry about the implications of their absence, and I ask if you have any idea of what is wrong with them.”

A pause fled through the room and the elders' smiles faded, turning into expressions of neutrality, soft subtexts of worry bleeding through their well-practiced facades. The Chieftain frowned, letting out a heavy sigh only possible with the stress of duty and age. They brushed their hair away from their face as they thought, their wrinkles seemingly more refined with their stress.

“Nothing can get past you, can it, young one?” They started, eyes gentle with familial adoration as they leaned into their sitting position, eyes aged beyond mortal years as they continued. “Yes, The dragon has been absent. None of us are sure of the reason. Your worry is more than understandable, so I will grace you with the information my conferments have come to me for.”

“The elders you see now have been informed of something indeed impossible, and yet occurring. Four guardsmen had come from their morning patrol, quiet and worried as they walked. Their silence was unordinary, for many of them were not much older than you.”

“And so, the ones with us now spoke to them, asking what troubled their poor souls. They convinced them to speak more, to let out the qualms that ailed them, to speak of their troubles. What they heard was indeed worrisome- for the Great Dragon has been scattering offerings across our island. The litter of fruit and fish that seemed to originally be of quality only the Dragon got had been found, all of which seemed to luckily be eaten by wildlife to deter the process of misuse.”

“An unusual and worrying sight, hence why they come to me and speak. They worry my old bones with the Dragon and ask me to speak to them, to ask of what of our offerings is inedible and why they lack the ability to leave their den”

Mango paused at the spiel, taking it all in as they slowly freezed, worry beginning to become worse with the new information. Ananas dragon... littering? The Dragon who hated the destruction of their land and the misuse of nature and foliage? Their worry spiked with gentle intent, hands feeling shaky as they again clenched into fists. The worry on their face was incapable of being hidden.

"Child, I have one question I wish to ask of you." They began, standing to walk to Mango's form. They gentled their hand upon his shoulder, smiling warmly as they spoke. "I wish for you to visit the dragon, and I wish for you to tell me what you think we should do."

Mango froze, eyes widening as he stared at them with a silent awe. What a large favour, and they ask him for its completion?

They continued on soon after, bringing his attention right back on to them. "I know it is a tall favour, but I believe it is time I allow you into the world of Dragons. It is time I show you what it is to communicate with the dragon, as I believe you may be the one to pass these duties on to.” Their voice was kind, their words genuine as their eyes seemed to speak of the pride they held in Mango.

For a moment, Mango paused, wondering for a moment if this was the correct decision. If agreeing to such a large task was truly what he wanted- If being one who’d solve these issues with The Golden Dragon was something he was willing to do. He was quick to find the answer, although his nervousness was undeniable when breaching the subject. He took a soft deep breath, smiling at his Chieftain.

“Of course, Chieftain. With task I will try my hardest to become of your pride, as well as the island’s” With Mango’s words, the two paused in a silent moment of appreciation, grinning at each other for just a moment before the silence was broken.

“Speak cautiously with them, for their pride is large and yet easily pierced. Do not be afraid to speak of your qualms, but remember your place in their heart, for you are their subject and not their friend. Remember to be kind whilst you speak, for it will be your greatest weapon whilst talking to the Dragon.”

“Now, child, I have cookies to talk to and things I must discuss, and as much as I find your presence enjoyable, I wish to have these conversations alone” The Chieftain turned to face the elders as Mango pushed through the vines, calling out with a finality; “We will send our prayers for you to return safe.”

Mango cookie paused outside of the cloaked door, hearing angry hushed words he couldn’t make out as he reveled in the fact he was going to be the one to speak to the dragon. Whilst not unheard of, it was rare for a chieftain to pass this duty onto a tribesmember, as it was most easy for the cookie in charge to know the Dragon the best. Nonetheless, he was nervously ready to speak to the dragon, as he was sure he would be capable of such a task.

He took a silent breath, gently convincing himself that all would be okay. He had nothing to worry about, for the Dragon was more kind than the Chieftain let it out to be. The Dragon would not harm anyone who hurt their pride, nor would they remain angry for long. It would be okay. All would be okay.

...At least, he hoped so.

He hoped that his words of worry would be enough for the dragon, although he faced doubt in the possibility of such a great outcome.

Standing in front of the Golden Dragon’s Den felt daunting, almost wrong. As if Mango was in a world made for giants and he was 10 sizes too small. The large structure towered over him with the threatening presence only a Dragon could bring, its entrance tall enough for even the largest of dragons. The stoned curve of the arch that held the entrance was carved with small decals of detailed adoration, as if this nest was all of Ananas.

As if it were the thing that granted them their life powder.

Mango breathed out, letting all of his qualms and worries escape with it, and gathering up the last of his courage. Focusing would be important within the coming moments, as would bravery be. Ananas was a sensitive dragon, one who incurred the need for more praise rather than scorn. Mango shook out his hands once more, trying to get the resolving prickles of nervousness to abandon him, and took a final breath in, forcing a soft smile and even gentler eyes.

Mango pushed open the yellow doors of the nest, eyes widening softly at the beautiful art work in front of him. Never once had Mango been in the maw of a dragon’s den, and now he was able to realize just how undeniable its beauty truly was. Mango walked in, letting go of the doors that slowly rumbled close with a slowed effort, letting the last of the sunlight dim for instead the reddish flame of fire. The closing was similar to Ananas’ magic, yet did not seem to be from the dragon themself.

All around mango was a curved ceiling much too tall for him to reach, seemingly a hall of some sort. carved out holes were in the cave walls, holding half-melted candles and beaded necklaces, the backs of the small cavities having painted or etched details of Ananas as a dragon, eyes sharp and yet gentle. Firm, yet adoring of their people- an emotion Mango had not truly seen from the Golden Dragon’s eyes for a few months.

The Dragon’s eyes, within the last times he saw them, were empty, scraped of all warm emotion and yet ready to help those who needed it. Their face wore a mask of happiness, one of which was almost unnoticeably fake to those without keen eyes. Whilst their actions spoke of the same adoration, something in the miniscule details of the way they presented themself in action spoke of a deep emptiness.

Within these few months, Ananas’ emotions had seemed to dull out, to drain, and yet the front was always there. They always pretended. Pretended they were okay, presented themself as the pride-fueled dragon they were before the dullness took hold, but no matter how hard they tried, their eyes spoke louder. Their eyes were quiet, clearly empty and silent, never once whispering of the emotions they once felt.

Mango noticed, and so did the elders. So did the chieftain.

But none of them thought it would get this far- that Ananas wouldn’t leave their nest- They thought perhaps that Ananas was simply feeling unlike themself. None of this was helped by the usual response of the dragon to the question of their emotional status.

‘Oh, silly cookies. I do not feel the flatish emotions you mortals do, there is no need for you to press your worry onto my actions, for I am fine.’ Their voice would always echo with their pride, but now their words seemed hollow. Like they were simply an actor putting on a performance of a character, and yet they were trying to be as they were before the emptiness took hold.

Mango wondered if he could’ve stopped this if he had simply asked if Ananas was okay, if they would speak of what harmed their psyche if he had simply implored, if he had pressed, perhaps if he had begged. He wondered, for just a moment, if he had done something wrong. If he was to blame for this.

Mango looked around at the rest of the parietal art, quietly appreciating every stroke and slice upon the stone. The art was precise, drawn with the practiced hand of someone who’d drawn for all their life. Most lines were the same, beautiful penmanship of Ananas- Recognizable to all who were from the Mango tribe- the thousands of years of life and drawing clear upon every stroke of color, skill palpable with every artpiece. Almost all of the art depicted that of Ananas and the mango tribe, with just a few showing the other three known dragons, and one lost to ancient times.

Occasionally scattered upon the walls were drawings of a less precise nature, carved with the fragility of childish intent, ripped into the pavement by claws that did not know of what they were doing nor the fact that these carvings would be there forever. Beside these crude carvings were those of elegant brushwork- that of more elegant than Ananas’ prowess. Beside the elegance became seriousness, a clear depiction of reality itself rather than spirituality, the drawings were literal, of no fun. As if this was a simple workday for the artist. This art looked ancient. Mango searched through the many paintings and carvings for a moment longer before setting off forward.

After several paces of walking, he finally set his eyes upon Ananas Dragon, who was curled in the structure of a basic nest. They were asleep, fastly so, as their breath rang out in quiet huffs, silent and yet there. They looked... terrible.

Their hair was messy, no longer in the perfectly-smoothed ponytail and instead in clumps of messy strands. Their eyes were closed, and yet spoke of deep tiredness- as if they hadn’t slept in millenia. Their cheeks were stained with relatively fresh tear markings, seemingly still semi-wet, as if they’d cried themself to sleep. Their scales were out of place, dull and scratched.

The previously well groomed dragon seemed to be neglecting their appearance, which was unlike the dragon, who gave care into their appearance being perfect everyday. Every second they were outside they always adjusted, they always made sure that every scale was in place, that not a strand of hair left their neat ponytail. Their appearance was always curated to be the prettiest it could be, to be the shining sun-borne they were.

And yet, now?

Ananas was dull in every sense of the word. The previously sun-bright scales looked as if they hadn’t seen light in weeks despite it only having been two days since their last appearance, their hair seemed to be two shades darker, their skin was pale and their eyes sunken. It was all too impossible, too odd and unusual for Mango's liking. He was quiet as he approached, worry sinking in as he tried his hardest to keep his soft expression in place. Gently, he tapped the side of the dragon, who did not stir.

They tried once again, gently putting their full hand on their side to push them, but that was unneeded, as they almost instantly opened an eye, the usually sharp gaze mixed with an extremely empty amount of emotion. Their eyes were barely open, and yet they still slightly stretched, making a small noise as they barely moved out of their position, wings sprawling over their top half as Mango got a glimpse at just how skinny they were.

As if they hadn’t eaten for days.

Their gaze, despite the lack of emotion, was still just as sharp and daunting. Mango could feel his expression falter as he slowly began to ask a simple question, one he was much too used to the answer of. “Great Dragon... are you okay...?” His voice was soft, worry clear in tone as Ananas continued to stare.

Their gaze felt as if they pierced right through the small cookie, silent and yet unfeeling. It told Mango nothing because there was nothing to tell, there was no emotion behind such a sharp gaze, only action, only the knowledge that Mango was there and speaking. The pause was long and the feeling of the gaze longer, the weight of such eye contact feeling heavier than life itself.

“I am fine, child.” was all they said, no denouncing ‘flat’ emotions, no declaration of not feeling- nothing. Only a lie. A well-known lie everyone knew was not true, and yet no one knew how to address. The words were spoken with a hollowed tone, one that echoed the opposite intent- that Ananas was not okay, that they needed help they were too stubborn to accept.

Mango wasn’t sure how to respond, instead taking some time to watch them shift in their spot, seemingly in an attempt to become comfortable once more. With the silence echoing across both their minds, they interrupted its foul intent with ease. “Now leave me, if there is nothing which needs my help, then leave me be. Let me sleep and rest, must you have nothing to inform me.”

“I apologize for continuing to bother you, Great Dragon, but I must admit that our tribe worries for you. No matter what you say, we can see that your eyes speak of an emptiness outside of our knowledge. We wish to know what is wrong so we can help you as you have helped us.”

Ananas paused, a silence stealing the room as they slowly looked back up to Mango. They stared, for but a moment, a glimmer of light appearing in their eye... only to disappear once more. They lowered once more and spoke curt and sharp, voice piercing any hope Mango had left. “Of which is impossible. I am fine and can help myself. Now leave me.”

Mango’s fists became tighter as Ananas curled into a smaller ball, eyes fluttering close as they quickly fell to rest. “...Is it us?” He spoke, voice shaky as Ananas’ eyes shot open and then looked over to the young cookie. Their eyes were sharp with the closest thing to worry so far, Mouth tightening into a sharp frown as they heard the words. “Are our offerings not enough?”

“...No, child. They are as fine as they were before. I am merely lacking the hunger to revel in your tribe's spoils.” Their voice was noticeably soft, eyes turning back into a dull fog as they leaned back into their arms, calm once more. “Leave now, child. I wish to be alone.” They spoke, breath going slow as Mango stayed in place.

Mango stared for longer than what was considered normal before slowly turning. They kept quiet as they left, even through their mess of tangled emotions they did not wish to wake the dragon. Whatever it was they were plagued with, the Dragon was hurting, and Mango was incapable of fixing it.

As they left through the reopened entrance- assumingly opened up by Ananas’ subconscious- the doors shut tight behind him, and he looked into the sky. There seemed to be no solution to such an issue, and yet the Chieftain wanted him to solve it. He softly begged the sun for answers as he thought, wishing for something to tell him what to do and of how to fix Ananas’ problem. But, alas, nothing answered. Nothing could tell him what was the right answer, as there was no right answer. There wasn’t even a wrong one.

Mango stepped forward, barely paying attention to his surroundings as he headed towards his tribe once more. Ananas couldn’t get help if they didn’t want it. Even with Mango’s efforts, they doubt a mere cookie would be able to convince the godly creature to get the help they desperately needed.

It seemed Mango needed the right pastries to convince them of their need for help. Ananas had been spiraling for a relatively large amount of time, time that was long enough Mango had noticed- perhaps if he’d helped then, everything would be fine now, but Mango can not turn back time. Mango can’t test the hypothesis of his inaction turned to action, so he was stuck wondering what else was possible.

Ananas was in terrible shape.

They needed motivation- something to make them feel as though help is a viable option, that it’d be okay to accept a welcoming hand. But what could convince them if their island could not? Perhaps it was less of a what and more of a who- But no cookie could help them, as to Ananas, worrying a cookie with such a need for help seemed to be a invalid option... Mango thought over the confines of Ananas’ den once more, wondering of what or who could possibly help whilst they searched through their memories.

It felt as though only a dragon could convince them of the worth of getting-

...help.

...

Mango had an idea.

His pace quickened as the thought crossed his head, fastening to a running pace when the already-quick steps weren't fast enough. The foliage around him turned to colors as he ran and ran, a smile forming on his face whilst he thought of his plan. It would work. It had to work.

He slid to a stop on the outskirts of the village, going back into a fast-paced walk as they gave out kind smiles like candy was given out on a holiday, his mood almost immediately improving with the new idea that took hold.

The elders had to agree with him.

When the elders had heard the words come out of Mango’s mouth, they were quick to thank him and then call a meeting that night. A meeting that only the adults could attend, as no child should be made to worry about such upsetting subject matter, whether they be teen or toddler. Therefore, when all the children were asleep, the adult cookies wandered outside of their huts and into a main clearing.

It seemed Mango was the only child who was not asleep

He was wide awake, waiting for the Chieftain to head out of the hut that night. He followed, quiet with every step as he snuck, undetectable by those who were not looking for him. He’d seen glances of the Chieftains eyes, who made no audible noise of recognition- perhaps out of a need for him to hear the upcoming meeting, or maybe out of the genuine circumstance of them not seeing him.

Mango wasn’t sure, but either way he was grateful. Not often did he sneak around like this, so the fact they did not make anyone aware of their presence was a blessing. Mango was desperate to hear the discussion of the older members of the tribe, as he was desperate for his idea to be accepted.

During the meeting, he had tuned out most of the conversation until the discussion, where many began to object.

‘He is but only a child! A 15 year old has no business within draconic affairs!’

‘There is not a point in allowing this, Chieftain! He will only come back dead, and the dragon will be even less happy!’

And yet, the Chieftain disagreed. Their eyes were full of wisdom, actions seemed to tease a gentle reminder of their status. They smiled greatly as they spoke, the adults beginning to catch wind of whatever of which they were communicating. Their silence ensued within an instant.

“Young Mango cookie has shown prowess in many ways. If I recall correctly, he was just helping with adult chores not long ago. Must I also add that this was of his own volition, much unlike kids his age?”

“Not only that, but he has shown he is able to remain undetectable in an emotional setting. He’s a promising young child, and this is the perfect opportunity for him to prove himself as a future communicator with the Great Dragon. If he can handle the Magenta Dragon as well as the Wish Dragon, then perhaps my stance will be correct, and you all will have no choice but to accept that he is ready.”

“Let him go. If he does not come back, then I will grieve as you all will. I will live up to my mistakes in filth if I must, but I have no doubt he will come back alive..”

There was a weighty pause. Mango was entrapped in the words of the Chieftain, whose smile turned glum as the emotion of the gathering shifted. Eyes turned soft, voices were completely silent, not even a whisper was heard. The Chieftain sighed a soft sigh, eyes gentle as they spoke.

“His father was more than capable, and I believe that shows that he is as well. He has many of his fathers qualities- A strong will, the ability to speak his mind without fear... the overwhelming urge to help others however he can.” A soft chuckle escaped her, which caused the crowd to smile. Some seemed misty-eyed as they spoke.

“I believe that with this trip, these qualities will strengthen. When the Golden Dragon is well, there is no doubt they will be proud of what Mango would accomplish with this trip. All will be okay if we allow this to happen, So let him go. Let him leave and let us watch as he come back stronger.”

After that, everyone was willing to agree, some reluctant and others more than happy, and it seemed as if the meeting was coming to a close, so Mango quickly left within the shadows, still silent with every pad of his feet.

His tribe had agreed.

He was quickly snapped back to the present, as the Chieftain gently tapped his shoulder with a kind smile. Mango was ready to take on this new challenge head on, even as nervousness ate at his heart. The Chieftain looked upon the boy with kind eyes, gentle smile helping ease Mango's nerves.

“Remember the stories of your father, young Mango. His soul will guide you with every row, and influence your every word.” They pulled away, smiling as they adjusted his clothes. “May the will of the Golden Dragon be with you. Remember our care for you, for you may find that it will help you in the toughest of times.”

“We bid you farewell, Child.”

Mango was soon given a hug from his best friend, Artichoke, and supplies for the trip.

Mango got into his canoe with an honest vigour, readying himself for the challenges he was more than likely going to face. Artichoke played his drums on Artichoke’s island silently, bidding him a musical farewell as he readied for a long trip. Mango waved to his friend, as well as the Ba-Dum Rays, who danced beautifully to the beat of Artichoke’s song.

Mango turned away, looking upon the expanse of the Soda Sea in front of him. As he left the edges of the island’s sight, he found himself tearing up. He already missed the quiet homely nature of his island, and he was already nervous of what great challenges he would face.

But he knew all would be well.

When he came back to the island, he knew he would be done with his new quest. He believed in himself enough to know that he could accomplish his new goal.

It would be difficult, but he would convince the other three dragons to help Ananas.

He had to.

Chapter Text

The trip had already been long.

The sea was cooperative, and yet remained enraged with every row of Mango’s oars. His arms were tired from the constant force, and due to the constant gentle-sway of the sea pushing upon his canoe, he was unable to sleep. With no company, he was forced to canoe to the Rambutan Island within one sitting, using only his strength to get there.

Even with all the stress his muscles and mentality was forced under, he still felt the will to help his dragon burn through his heart, even if the process was grueling. No matter how much the strain around him got to him, the idea of his once-proud dragon becoming their true self again was all he needed to get through the process.

Even so, he still found himself missing his chores, the carrying of baskets, fetching Artichoke from Artichoke’s island- For a moment he wondered who was taking Artichoke to and from the island- if Artichoke missed Artichoke and Mango’s small conversations. Mango did, Mango wished he’d brought Artichoke on this trip with him. But this was a task only for him, and Artichoke would be there when he got back anyway.

No matter Artichoke’s hypothetical presence, Mango missed his island. He missed the Ba-Dum Rays, he missed the cookies, he missed his chieftain, and most of all, he missed his dragon.

Ananas Dragon was a comforting presence, their very being meant well for the Pineapple island. They reminded Mango that no matter the situation the Mango Tribe faced, Mango would be safe under Ananas’ wing. That no matter how horrible the dragon felt, they’d keep those who lived on the island safe for as long as they could.

Ananas was the Mango Tribe’s protector when they needed it most.

But now their protector needed someone to comfort them.

Mango snapped out of his thoughts as his weary eyecings caught onto the sights of the Rambutan island, purple and bustling with life as he used the last of his strength to row towards the land mass. He landed on the shore smoothly, and stood with grace as he watched islanders rush towards him with spears.

“Wait- I’m a Mango tribesman!” He spoke, fast and shockingly unfaltering as he lifted his hands up. His face was apologetically kind whilst he looked at the tribe's members, who stared idly at the young boy. They inspected his every feature as he continued speaking. “I come with peace in my head, and a problem needing solving on my tongue.”

The tribescookies stared at him blankly for just a moment longer until a vaguely familiar face came into view, waving their hand to signal the tribescookies to lower their weapons. With a stern look, their weapons lowered, and someone who Mango recognized as ‘Rambutan Cookie’, the current tribe leader of the Rambutan Tribe, offered him a hand.

“Hello, younger one.” She spoke, a kind tone ringing out with gentle intent whilst Mango graciously accepted the hand he was offered. “You are from the Mango Tribe? I hear that Tribe faces no hardships on their island... What possible problem could you have come here with?” Her voice was calming, like clouds on a summer day. Her eyecings were aged beyond her young life, and her smile was pleasant. Whilst her words could’ve been rude, the way she handled them and herself seemed to make her words become pleasant.

“Yes, I am from the Mango tribe. Hardships are rare where I am from, but I fear one you may have less of an understanding has peaked. It is about our dragon, the one of golden scales.” Mango Spoke, standing on the island’s sand with a small amount of sway to his body. With those words and the final possibility of a break, his body seemed to finally catch up with the lack of sleep and the overabundance of stress. Rambutan was quick to catch him, eyecings softening ever so slightly at the sight of the relatively young man’s exhaustion.

“If such is true, then tell me of your qualms somewhere with less eyecings. Your Canoe will be cared for, so do not worry for it’s sudden disappearance. The Mango tribe is our sister tribe, after all.” Her eyecings became harsh for just a moment as she looked over the few tribescookies who gathered around Mango, their forms shrinking as Rambutan took Mango’s side.

Mango, catching on quickly, smiled warmly as he quickly interjected the interaction. “I can recognize their fears. I have heard from the Mango Tribe’s Chieftain that your island has been plagued with monster attacks as of recently. It is of no surprise that your tribe is nervous of cookies they do not recognize as their own.” Mango’s tone turned soft, both out of shyness and a vague understanding of a concept, as Mango had never truly suffered with monster attacks in any way besides false stories.

Rambutan hummed, her eyecings becoming softer once more. “I suppose you’re right, but that is not an excuse to threaten one who is clearly from the Mango Tribe. You are bright orange, you know.” She spoke, voice gently teasing the young man as Mango chuckled slightly. “I suppose that is true” He responded with finality, leaning on Rambutan’s shoulder as she guided him to what he assumed to be her quarters.

“I should probably begin with asking you your name, if you wish to disclose it to me” She started, eyecings flickering from him to the hut she was guiding him to. He gently hummed, smile faltering just a little as they left the group of people. “Mango Cookie.” He spoke, voice more audibly tired as he allowed her to guide him. “Child of Magnifera.” Rambutan’s hand twitched, humming slightly.

“My parents were friends with yours, then. Magnifera... I heard he disappeared after a canoe trip ten or so years ago... How older were you when that happened? Did you know him?” Her voice seemed ever so slightly more desperate, and yet her eyecings tried to hide it. She spoke of genuine curiosity rather than a need to know, but Mango was smart enough to realize that her words meant more than she wanted him to assume.

“Almost five, I barely knew him. I do not believe I can tell you what you wish to hear, I am sorry.” He caught Rambutan’s eyecings, which struck with the slightest hint of grief as she heard his words. She stepped into a relatively small hut, one of which had only the necessities of life. Mango was not shocked by the bareness of the small living quarters, as Rambutan came off as the kind of cookie who would want only essentials for herself. She likely shared the rest with her tribe, as her kindness was already apparent with just the mere actions of trusting Mango.

Rambutan guided mango to sit on the floor, which he did with no complaints. “Ah, it is okay. I spoke with too-personal questions anyway... I was 17 at the time of Magnifera’s disappearance.” She paused to smooth her clothes, then sat near Mango. “I remember my tribespeople’s despair at such news, my parents had disappeared two years prior... Your father was kind, Mango. I remember that from my parents.” She smiled warmly at him, eyecings gentle as Mango smiled a mournful one back.

“So I’ve heard. Many say I am just like him.” The air fills with the calm, grief-filled feeling of Solidarity. Their eyecings both meet, both speaking of an understanding of the pain of loss, whether the person they lost was a concept supposed to be close to them or people that were. The moment, peaceful and quiet, was gently broken not too long later as Rambutan spoke.

“I wish to ask what it is you need our assistance for. You spoke of an issue in the Mango Tribe, specifically detailing your dragon, so tell me what issue they have brought up.” Her voice was still calm despite the demanding words, and Mango began his own words with a pre-warning of what was important to the Mango Tribe’s current issues.

“As I hope you are aware of, the Mango Tribe’s dragon, Ananas Dragon, holds extreme reverence for the Mango Tribe’s lands, and by proxy, the people on the lands.” Mango began, Rambutan nodding and motioning for him to continue. “It is less of a problem the dragon has forced upon us, but one they have incurred. They come out to adjust the details of the land we call home every day, and yet they have not been seen for three.” Mango continued, rubbing his eyecings idly as Rambutan made barely any interaction.

“That could merely mean they require their alone time. Dragon’s are very solitudinal creatures, so it would not be shocking for a Dragon who spends every hour with their tribe to need to be alone.” Rambutan spoke, doubt peaking in both her eyecings and voice. “Even so, I am not sure how my tribe could help yours in this matter.”

Mango let out a soft sigh, eyecings floating downwards as their realization that convincing these people of the worrisome nature of the Dragon’s disappearance would be quite difficult. He looked back up as his voice gentled, eyecings obviously pleading as he continued on with his voice.

“I agree, there is no way for you to help us. I must talk to your dragon. I beg of you.” Mango watched as Rambutan’s face dropped ever so slightly, eyecings dulling and yet softening at his state. “The Golden Dragon never stays out of the limelight for so long. I checked on them, and they looked worse than I've ever seen them.”

Silence beheld them for a moment as it took over the room, commanding the absolute nothingness of quiet consideration, of slight wonder. Rambutan’s eyecings flicked about, searching for something that was not physically there.

“Their scales were pale.”

With those simple words, Rambutan’s eyecings shot up to Mango. Anyone who knew of Ananas Dragon by mere concept alone could tell you that the first thing you’d notice about them was their glittering scales, ones that looked like they were taken directly by a sunbeam. Ananas was not called the Sun-Borne Dragon for nothing, as their scales looked as if they bore the sun upon every moment, many times it seemed like the sun was what gave them power.

Rambutan let out a soft but heavy sigh, her eyecings slowly fell as she closed them tight, hands tightening slightly as she took a small breath. She slowly opened her eyecings again, looking up to Mango. “The first and last time I have ever seen the Violet Dragon was at a fruit tree when I was 12.” She started, gently placing her hand on Mango’s.

“I am now 27.” Her voice was heavy with the gravity of her words, eyecings carefully searching Mango’s as her head tilted down. She took a moment of silence with Mango, who sat quietly in worried shock, his eyecings twitching about as he slowly unraveled what that could mean for the future of his Dragon. “I cannot tell you whether or not Lychee Dragon will be here, nor if they’ll ever hear your pleas. It is better for you to speak to the Wish Dragon.”

Mango’s head ducked as he pulled his hand away, placing his face into his hand as he took a weight breath and a grave sigh, closing his eyecings as they stung both with his exhaustion and his tears. Rambutan watched with gentle intent as Mango let out a small cry. “I am sorry, Mango Cookie.”

Silence flooded into the room silently as Mango wiped away his tears, gently smiling at Rambutan, but letting her have no words. What was there to say? There was no Lychee dragon, so what was he to do? All this travel was for no word for the dragon, but there was still Lotus Dragon and Pitaya Dragon. Perhaps they would be cooperative, but it would forever be of great grief that Lychee Dragon was not there. Mango opened his eyecings slowly and nodded. “Thank you for your hospitality and kindness anyway. It seems as if I should best be heading off to Lotus Paradise.”

“Not yet you aren’t.” Rambutan snapped, her voice scolding as she spoke. She stood once more, helping Mango up. “You will be getting rest before you leave, as it is obvious that you have not gotten it for hours. You are also clearly not used to rowing for as long as it takes for you to head to the Rambutan island, and must I remind you that the Lotus Paradise is farther”

Mango made no interjection, as his body's tiredness was already too much to bear.

“I only row for an hour or two at a time, usually with someone with me to take my slack. I must admit I wasn’t expecting for it to be so... draining. I may have overestimated my rowing abilities” He let out a dry chuckle, trying as well as he could to stand as normal, but his body seemed even more exhausted than before. “I apologize for throwing you into this for no good reason, Rambutan Leader.”

Rambutan quickly shook her head as she guided Mango back outside, leading him to another small hut near the outskirts of the village. “It is more than fine. I do not quite understand your qualms, but I know they are there, and I know you thought Lychee could help.” Her voice was calm again, however not many other words were spoken as she guided him inside the small hut, which was even more barren than Rambutan’s. It only had a bed, a place to start a fire, and nothing else.

“Rest now, young man. You need it for your journey to the Lotus Paradise.” She smiled as she guided him to the bed, helping him sit properly. She backed up a few steps, then smiled once again. “I will get my friend, Mangosteen Cookie, to give you food as you need. They’ll be here within the next ten or so minutes.” Mango nodded at her words, humming in acknowledgement as she began to walk out.

She paused at the frame of the door, the afternoon sun hitting her and framing her face in a golden light as she held onto the door. Her eyecings searched for a moment, then looked towards Mango. “I apologize for our lack of help. I hope the Lotus Dragon will be more helpful.” She gave one last smile as she walked out.

...So, no Lychee dragon.

Mango slowly held his head in his hands, feeling defeated as he felt tears begin to sting his eyecings again. This was a bad start- a horrible one- his energy was drained and he could feel his mental fortitude draining with it. He wished not to admit it, but this was already a major blow on his will to finish this trip...

But he could not return empty handed.

He opened his eyecings, filled with a mild determination as he wiped his short-lived tears once more. No, the Mango tribe needed him. Ananas needed him. He would do anything to make sure he did everything within his power that could possibly lead to the capability of Ananas’ return as a pride-filled island-loving dragon. He must.

Mango was quickly snapped out of his thoughts when he heard a knock from the doorframe of the small hut, eyecings flicking quickly to the form of a small child. Their head was covered by what seemed to be the outer casing of a mangosteen, whilst their ‘hair’ had the appearance of the fleshy fruit. Their eyecings were doe-ish, speaking of the curiosity of childish innocence, and yet somewhere in there Mango could see a twinkle of what was true, a soft eyecing that told him they were much wiser than they dared to show.

Mango was quick to notice the small basket of fruit that the child held, and his brain quickly put two and two together. “You are Mangosteen?” He smiled, inquiring gently towards the small child. They couldn’t be older than ten, as they were quite short... barely the height of Mango’s waist. The small child smiled, nodding as they walked up to Mango.

“I saw you come from your canoe.... hehe, the older people didn’t want me there, but I wanted to know who was here....” Mangosteen giggled nefariously, smiling at Mango as they handed him the basket. “Don’t tell them though! They’ll be mad at me...”

Mango chuckled softly, remembering times when he and Artichoke had done something similar. Reminds him of the night before, when he hid away to hear the meeting going on... oh, how he misses his island. He accepted the fruits graciously, nodding gently in thanks as he gave a once over on the food. Mostly mangosteens and rambutans, perhaps a few other fruits thrown in there as well, but Mango was quickly disrupted before he could check.

“You’re from the Mango Tribe, right...? On Pineapple Island...? You said that A- ...” Mangosteen paused for a very brief second, eyecings twinged with a sharp panic that they quickly hid. If Mango was less keen-eyecingd, he would’ve never noticed, however he’d been side by side with the secretive for most of his life. “...The Golden-scaled dragon had something wrong with them..? What happened?” The inquisitive young one kicked at the dirt, crossing their arms behind their back and giving a small smile.

Mango was quick to form an apologetic look, eyecings softening at the small child’s curiosity. “I’m sorry, but I don’t think it's a good idea to tell someone as young as you. Perhaps you can learn what happened when you're older, Mangosteen.” Mango’s voice was soft. Mangosteen’s smile drooped, but not into something disappointed. For just a moment, only a moment, Mango saw a look of genuine anger- no, Rage. Rage that was uncharacteristic for a child so young. Mango’s smile faded for a moment, and the expression was corrected into disappointment.

“I can handle it! I promise” Mangosteen giggled for a moment, eyecings still tainted with Mango’s image of those rage-filled eyecings, rage that was beyond the capability of a cookie with such a young face. Mango slowly corrected his smile, although even he was able to tell how forced it was.

“...I’m sorry, but I will not be telling you.” Mango finished, looking down to the fruit as Mangosteen stared holes into him. A very, very strong look for someone so young, but as soon as that thought came, it faded into something much... different. He felt his emotions soften, and he slowly looked up to Mangosteen, who smiled gently and waved their hands around them. Odd, Mango couldn’t remember what had offset him so bad.. Perhaps he was merely imagining it.

“Come to the Rambutan tree at the left side of the camp please...? When you’re done eating...! I promise it’ll be a good surprise...” Mangosteen smiled warmly, eyecings batting gently with the request. Their speech was slow, and their face was pleading like a puppy’s... how adorable, how could Mango have ever felt offput by such a sweet face...? His voice was quick, he barely even reacted on his own. “Of course.”

Mangosteen giggled then tapped off, waving goodbye at Mango with a soft ‘Enjoy your food!’

Mango’s mind felt indescribably foggy, perhaps it was merely his exhaustion. He slowly looked down at the food, his grogginess leaving him at such an odd interaction. He swallowed on nothing as he leaned back, sighed softly as he searched through the fruit basket.

He barely thought as he looked through the fruit, not even thinking about what it was he was eating. He’d peel back the fruit’s skin with empty eyecings as he slowly ate the flesh of whatever it was he was eating, completely blank with a lack of thought. Eventually, when all the fruit was gone, he stared at the empty peels and felt a vague concept of a thought of what to do with the peels. Mango stared at it for a solid minute before his mind snapped back into reality, breathing sharply.

Whatever that was, it made him feel weird. Gross, even. He shivered slightly as he stood up, feeling better enough to stand. He was still exhausted, but even with a clearer mind he was curious about Mangosteen's request. He stretched slightly as he stood, popping his back as he walked to the doorway, taking note of his surroundings as he made sure to intake the position of the sun. Still afternoon, if not a little later- perhaps an hour or two before sunset?

The Rambutan tribescookies were busily wandering around, from this distance Mango could see the vague outline of an orange canoe, docked on the sand whilst cookies took note of its structure. Mango made a soft huff more of amusement as he slowly walked out, walking in the shadows so as to not catch attention from the islanders.

‘Left side’? did they mean from a seaside view or island view? Likely Island view, yes? Well- there was probably only one side that would connect to a forest of Rambutan trees... Mango would try island view first, as it seemed to taper off buildings-wise. Mango quietly dodged focus-eyecingd Rambutan tribescookies whilst he walked, careful not to disturb the ground enough to alert them with sound. Even whilst exhausted, the teaching of respecting the land in a way that would cause a lack of upturning of dirt was hammered into his brain like a nail, the training mostly coming from Ananas themself.

Mango hoped Ananas had eaten something whilst he was gone.

He was quick to see the Rambutan tree he was to guess that Mangosteen meant when directing him, and quickly made his way there. Luckily, it seemed as if there was little tribesmembers- made sense, picking time was near the morning rather than the afternoon, and it was likely they were preparing the fruit for dishes. Mango was still careful, trying to make sure that no one in the village would take notice of his orange colors... he did stick out like a sore thumb in this island.

Mango softly sighed as he looked around the empty heaps of land, all of which held nothing but the grass on its ground. It seems like he’d come out for no reason. Should’ve known not to expect anything out of the Violet dragon, all he remembers hearing about them was Ananas’ overwhelming distaste for them... and their distaste for Ananas. Mango rubbed at his eyecings tiredly as he pinched his nose bridge, upset at the waste of time.

Oh well, He still had Lotus to convince-

“You! Mango tribescookie! Come here!”

The voice was unfamiliar, sharp and squeaky. As if it was used to having everything handed to them and yet taken away on a whim... like they were ready to keep what was there and take what they wanted. Mango looked around sharply, desperately trying to find where the voice was coming from before locking eyecings with a violet figure.

Their eyecings were slightly sharp, flicking to Mango and then to the entrance to the forest constantly. There was a gem situated on their stomach region, a hat with two false-gems situated on the center of both of the diverging jester-like cones. Two small bell-shapes rang gently as they slightly turned their head, quickly urging Mango over with a very sharp wave.

Lychee Dragon.

Mango froze for a second longer before quickly looking around and sneaking to Lychee Dragon, who sharply pulled him behind a rock placed nearby. They hissed softly as they looked out one final time, then whipped to look at Mango with a harsh jingle. They glared sharply at the cookie before stepping off into the air, their wings fluttering slightly as they began to float midair.

“Why are you here?” They said, voice still just as sharp as before. Their eyecings harsh and their tone harsher. Their eyecings scathed across Mango’s form, piercing his every feature as he was inspected by the small dragon. It was shocking how small they were, actually- They were about the same height as him, if not smaller. It was impossible to tell due to the fact they were midair. “I don’t have all day, flatster! Tell me why you're here!”

Mango jolted slightly, taken aback at the sudden usage of such a harsh slur. Mango was offended, but quickly shoved down that feeling as he took note that such anger would be especially bad against a dragon so willing to throw around words like that, especially with such a mean tone. Sure, Ananas let out the occasional ‘flat’, but to them that was merely a way of describing things rather than a harmful insult.

“...Ananas Dragon is in trouble. They’ve been thrown into what I can only describe as a depression, and-”

Lychee interrupted with a curt laugh, sharp as they held back a true cascade of laughter. They held their mouth as they silently chortled into their hands, slowly descending back to the ground. Irritation was quick to overtake Mango, and they snapped out a sharp reply; “Are you gonna let me finish?”

“Oh, please! This is priceless!” their eyecings opened just a smidge, smile wide as they stifled more giggles. “What and you want me to help that idiot? It’s not my fault the gecko feels a ‘wittle sad!” They said, voice downturning into something indicating a child’s lisp, eyecings sharp with amusement. “Please, there’s nothing in this world that could possibly make me help that self-entitled-”

Mango, against his better judgement, was quick to interrupt Lychee, eyecingbrows furrowing as they spoke with a flat, serious tone. This dragon was draining more energy from him than he had to give. “Their scales are so pale they look like marcescent leaves and they haven't touched a single grain on their island for three days.” He glared holes into Lychee, who, to their credit, immediately paused in their laughter, eyecings fading from amusement to a slight flickering of... worry.

A frown slowly took hold on their face as their hands lowered, a vacant look soon replacing their old one as they seemed to realize the implications of an absence like that. They slowly smiled again, although the smile seemed much more fake and hollow, like an emotionless cookie’s attempt at positive emotion. Lychee slowly looked to Mango, voice faltering for a moment. “...I’m sure it couldn’t be that bad. Maybe their having an off week-”

“They have eyecingbags that make it look like they haven’t slept in days and look so skinny that it’s comfortable to assume they haven't eaten longer.” His voice was still flat and serious, their eyecings becoming softer as Lychee’s smile completely faded into something much less amused and much more disheartened.

Lychee’s voice became quiet, in a moment Mango was absolutely sure was rare. “They haven’t fixed a speck of sand on their island?” Their hands tightened into fists as they spoke, their face desperately trying to announce their fake emotions of amusement at the situation, despite the fact their eyecings themselves betrayed them, telling how worry was daring to threaten their heart.

“Not a speck of sand” Mango responded, voice now allowing itself a small amount of emotion. Just enough to allow him a gentle voice, one that was trying its best to be comforting. Mango frowned a little harder, mostly out of mild concern.

“...and... You’re sure?”

“Very Sure.”

A large pause followed, one where Lychee landed on the ground below, their clawed hands into extremely tight fists. Slowly, they closed their eyecings, letting a small breath escape them, one that Mango would dare to say seemed pained. Mango watched as Lychee let a smile overtake them again, this time not pretending to be what it wasn’t.

“...Tell Lotus. Make sure you tell them that they haven’t been out for however long it’s been at that time. Make sure they send a letter to Pitaya, as quickly as possible. Make sure they tell us when they’ve decided on a plan. Their better at this than I am.” Lychee said, voice obscenely calm considering Mango’s first impression.

“And get some sleep!” Lychee’s harsh tone came out again, sharp and anger-filled as they spoke. “You’ll need it to get to the Lotus Paradise! If you don’t rest well you might steer off course...” They began to mumble to themself, shooting off into the air faster than an arrow. Mango paused, staring out at where they had escaped to before slowly making his way to check if anyone was out.

Luckily, it seemed no one had heard the conversation, as no one but the leaves and the trees were there. Mango let out what felt like the fiftieth sigh of the day as their body began to truly feel tired. Every limb of his felt like it weighed a hundred more pounds, like they were made of lead rather than dough. They slowly made their way to the hut, trying to again sneak in the shadows as to not be seen, however he did get a few glances from mildly confused Rambutan tribescookies.

None of them asked, as the look on his face seemed to explain enough for their confused looks to turn into mild sympathy, and then they’d quickly look away, as if they understood completely. Mango let out a small huff as they reached the doorway, stepping in and barely noticing the lack of a bowl with fruitpeels as they laid onto the bed with barely any thoughts.

Exhaustion was truly taking hold, and his eyecings felt like they could remain open any longer. He had spent out all of his physical energy, and it felt as though all mental energy had gone with Lychee’s conversation. However, deep within his heart, he could feel the hope building up.

Lychee, no matter how... interestingly difficult they were, did care. They had seemed to agree to help Ananas, and that was the most Mango could ask for.

...However, no truly important thoughts came after that, as sleep overtook Mango’s exhausted, barely even awake mind within an instant.

The first thought that crossed Mango’s mind upon their waking was the fact he thought Lychee would be the most difficult to convince.

Despite never meeting them, Mango knew from the dragon that they were an interesting Dragon to deal with. From Ananas’ constant complaints of their “lack of tact”, from the various stories of their cold heart, Mango was aware that Lychee was a difficult Dragon to convince.

...And yet, that was relatively easy.

At the mere mention of Ananas dragon’s state, Lychee was quick to fold. As if whatever anger they chose to front was not them. Almost like despite their apparent rage-filled insulting nature, they still cared for their kind. like they felt bad and wished to help them purely for memory’s sake.

But it was equally likely that Mango was overthinking it.

Perhaps Lychee only cared due to Ananas being ‘weaker’ whilst in this state, perhaps it was merely because Lychee pitied them. Mango didn’t know, as he was not a dragon, but either way he was simply enthused that Lychee agreed to help.

...However, something in Mango asked if this was a good or bad sign. If Lychee’s cooperation meant that convincing Lotus Dragon would be more or less difficult- If Lychee was so easy to convince, did that mean that Lotus would be hard to? Perhaps there would be a setback or two that would make it take longer to get to them? Mango wasn’t sure, but he could feel the doubt begin to trickle into the hope.

Mango was soon to get ready to leave after this, politely declining Rambutan’s invitations for food. Mango was much more eager to get to Lotus’ Paradise, as now he was worried it would take longer to talk to them. He was still adamant of his appreciation towards the tribe leader, quick to give a bow to show his respect soon after he declined an offer for food.

They were respectful when they sent them off, offering him small smiles and likely the inner monologue of how odd Mango Tribescookies were to them, however Mango still saw their hospitality. They were much different and had a very different culture, but Mango saw their kindness deep down.

The small child he saw before Lychee, Mangosteen, was not visible upon his dispersal, but he did get a glimpse of the violet-hues of a certain dragon, whose eyecings pierced him whilst he canoed away from the island, seemingly trying to get one final intake of Mango.

But as soon as the shoreline was out of reach, the feeling was gone, and Mango was left alone with his thoughts, his oars, and the sea...

He missed his island, but he still felt his courage unwaning, as his bravery was steadfast within his heart, ready to guard him from anything that would cause him to lose his pure motivation.

Next stop, the Lotus Paradise.