The cold bit like a dragonbite viper, weakening and poisoning the body. But on they went, until their wings ached, and their talons refused to take another step. They were in Skywing territory now, and every once in a while they would see a flash of red or orange before it faded back into the white of the snow. On they pushed.

Hours later, on the verge of collapse, they rested. But it was not for long.Orange and red streaks burst through the air in front of them, so fast it looked like a sunset, until finally they came to a complete stop.  They were surrounded by Skywings, hissing and breathing spurts of fire from their nostrils.

"So," said one,  "Even though the war is over, you still dare to come back here?"

"We come in peace. We would like to negotiate the pardon of a prisoner with Queen Ruby." Corals voice rang out through the empty air.

"The Queen has no desire to pardon any fugitives. However, she is always looking for new blood in the arena, and you two will do nicely."

Hot anger coursed through Ripcurrent.
"Your queen dares to continue her Mothers tradition? With bloodshed every day, though the war is over? Who is fighting? Skywings against Skywings?"

"It is not up to you, SeaWing, what our queen does and doesn't do. But soon it won't matter. You'll be dead. Take them."

Skywings ran at them from all sides, slashing at them and sending out bursts of flame that missed them by inches. They both shrieked and ducked. Coral lashed out with her claws, injuring one, but it was useless, they were too outnumbered.

"Coral!" Ripcurrent shouted. "Coral, you've got to use your powers!"

"I can't!" She cried miserably. "You've dot to, please Coral if we're really friends." Was what he said, but both knew they were much more than that.

"I... I'm afraid. I can't, Ripcurrent." A Skywing ran towards Ripcurrent, grabbing him into a death grip, so he couldn't breathe, couldn't do anything but stare at Coral, trying to memorize her face before it ended. Her eyes dilated but then squeezed shut, and as she drew in a breath, everything froze, everyone except Coral and Ripcurrent. Coral collapsed into a shivering heap as Ripcurrent slipped out from under the dragons frozen claws and rushed to support her.

Then, before the Skywings could unfreeze, before anyone could do anything, a rumble came from the mountains above them. A boulder rolled down the mountain, knocking over Skywings like bowling pins and ramming into Coral and Ripcurrent so all went dark.

Guys, do you think I should make another tribe? I might for the next chapter.