Return of the Dragon Tamers; the Plague of Ogual


The dawn had not yet taken over the grasp of the night when Merrik Tetra awoke from his slumbers, thoughts immediately stole into his mind and his brow furrowed, much as it had over the last two years. He wiped the sleep from his eyes and peered out the stained glass window of his loft within a great draconic stable built many year ago by his ancestor. A wave of acknowledging thought seeped into his mind moments after he emerged from his slumber. A presence made itself known within the corridors of his own mind, one that was not his own, though he would not consider himself whole without it. Stretching, he rose from his bed and greeted the early morning light of the moon.

"Today, everything will change. Today, the scales will tip in our favor." He thought, running his work-worn hands through thick dark hair. "There's much to do, and my body seems to agree an early start is more than necessary. Obsidian Nova," he projected his thoughts to the second half of his mind. "We must prepare, are you well rested?' A loud rustle sounded from below Merrik's feet, followed shortly by claws scraping old stone.

"Indeed, Merrik. As well rested as is needed." As the response entered Merrik's mind he turned and moved towards the thick curtain that acted as a fourth wall to his second floor loft. Drawing back the heavy material he leaned forward on the ornately carved wooden railing and looked out at the magnificant stables that had become home to his dearest memories. Just then, a thin whisp of smoke slithered up into the air before his face, following it, the massive head of a pitch black dragon. Fierce, blood red eyes gazed into his and a thin smile crept across Merrik's lips. "Good morning dear friend." Came the voice into his mind once again.

"And good morning to you, if you can call this dark hour a morning at all." He spoke this time, reaching his hand out to stroke the massive beast with a fond touch. "A moment, please, while I dress." The drake nodded, closing its reptilian lids, allowing his tamer to dress in privacy. Moments later his mind noted completion and he opened his eyes again. "Ready to go?

"Ay." And the man strode over to the rail, stepping up onto it and dropping down onto the now properly positioned dragon's scaly back without hesitation. Slipping down after, onto the straw covered stone floors below, the pair made their way out of the stall and down the grand hall to the front doors of the dragon stable. Pushing open the large, white oak doors, Obsidian Nova stepped out onto the dew soaked grass and stretched the entirety of his mass, releasing a jet of black flames out into the night sky so as to clear his flare passage. Merrik closed the doors behind him and drew in a deep breath of the crisp spring air. He turned his head to his draconic companion and nodded in mental agreement that it was indeed, time to move. And so they took off, running. The begining of today's training session had commenced, for there was no way Merrik nor Obsidian Nova would allow their training to falter, not at a time like this with the distant ghosts of a great darkness inching over the horizon.

~~~

The sun broke over the horizon as rider and dragon soared above the thick forested landscape, its warm light a gift as always. An advantage to the bond the existed between the two was that neither had to be completely focused on trivial things like travel. While Nova followed the wind route he had flown so many hundreds of times Merrik's mind was completely lost from his surroundings, his thoughts consuming every bit of his attention.

"My heart tells me the wyrmlings are ready, yet my mind insists we could have done more; stricter training, less play... They are so young and free-spirited, and though I know with all my being they understand their purpose, and the severity of the matter at hand, I cannot help but worry that they're not ready yet." He paused to enjoy for a moment, the raw beauty of the sunrise. It was reassuring and encouraging. "No... I am wrong to doubt our and their capability. We have trained them well, of this I am sure. And the training will only grow more difficult and strenuous with each passing day. The new tamers will be in for a surprise if their minds are at all set on down time with their 'pet dragons'." Nova chuckled at this thought; pet dragons. As if a human could ever take a dragon for a pet.

As their flight continued, a clearing could be seen in the distance, a grand portion of land that had been cultivated to work as a homestead for the Tetra family for centuries. The beautifully manicured lawns and gardens were a pleasing site indeed, but nothing could compare in grandeur or comfort to the Forest Garden; the magnificent ground that once housed the ancient order of the dragon tamers, and would again. Merrik had insisted on spending his time at the dragon stables in the deep of the ancient woods to keep up with his training and with that of the younger drakes.

A fond feeling poured into his heart as he recalled his young draconic companions. Though they had hatched a mere two years ago, he felt as if they had been along side himself and Nova for many years indeed. But he would never care for them in the way he cared for Obsidian Nova; no, for no bond could ever compare to that of a dragon and its tamer.

"Today they will form bonds of their own." He shook his head in shock as he found his voice breaking with emotion. It was not usual for Merrik to display emotion out of line, but he allowed himself a pardon under the stress and direty of the situation. It was true, these young dragons had become his children, in a strange way. But nothing would make him more proud, or bring him more joy than to see the young drakes fulfil bonds of their own, for they could never be whole until their hearts became opened to a tamer chosen many lifetimes ago. Their flight neared an end as a large coliseum appeared far below them. The black serpent tore away from the westwardly draft and spiralled down through the currents of the sky, landing with a deep thud in the center of the coliseum.

The dark haired rider took his place on the earth and traced his gaze around the outer wall of the great structure, where large doors lined up. Obsidian Nova pulled back onto his haunches and let out a fiery roar, weaved with unusual tones that no man could truly understand or comprehend. The great sound echoed for a moment before a quiet rumble and shuffle came from all around them. The doors opened up without a soul in site, and from within the dark enclosures behind came a group of muscular, gleaming young dragons.

Merrik was completely unphased by the site of the youngsters as they had become the norm of his day to day happenings. "I bid you all a fair day, my young friends. And a fair day it will be, for today, you become whole." He paused as the drakes entered into the outside world in their various ways, some took to the skies to allow the breezes to awaken their tired eyes, others stretched and rolled about, all of them released their flames to clear their own flare passages, lighting up the sky with brilliant fiery colors of all levels of the spectrum.

"Today, everything will change."

"Indeed, dear friend." Said the nightmare dragon at his side. "The winds have foretold so."

~~~
It was mid noon now, and the young dragons had long since gone back to rest their minds and bodies in preparation for the bonding ritual. Merrik sat atop Obsidian Nova's back as the dragon perched on a great stone pillar. The coliseum below was now filled with life and movement as a group of humans stood mingling in the center. They were to be the future tamers of the drakes hidden behind the surrounding doors, and had been called here today to start off on their great destinies.

Two weeks ago he had felt the presence of the oracle in his mind, telling him it was time to seek out the new tamers for the dragons had reached maturity at 2 years of age. Luckily Merrik was led to each individual by a link to the oracle within his mind. He tracked down, confronted and explained the situation to each of the soon-to-be tamers below. Some were harder to convince than others, but when Obsidian Nova showed himself they all agreed almost immediately. Very few had ever seen a dragon for Nova was the only one left in the lands for the last 2 decades. No one had ever seen the young dragons for it was not safe for them to leave the purified lands of the Tetra estate. Not until they were bonded.

The great plague that swept the lands was especially dangerous to dragons to Merrik's understanding and research. Their minds would fall to the toxic magic and they would become feral and rabid. Of all the creatures of the lands, a dragon was the one being that Merrik truly feared at the wrath of the plague. A rabid dragon was a death machine, killable only by another dragon and even then; the plague had strange effects on the ancient rulings of magic. No, it was best not to risk letting the yearlings pass the protected boundaries until their minds were closed off from the dark magic and secured by their tamer's bond.

"I still debate if it would have been best to tell the new tamers that the bonding process will seem like an attack. Each dragon will test the individuals and choose which one they see fit to have as a tamer. This will involved attacks used to test bravery, quizzes to test intelligence, confrontations of all kinds. It is lucky you and I had the luxury of bonding while you were still but a wyrmling in an egg, Nova, for I do not envy these tamers." Merrik had a hard look on his face, filled with concern for what would be. He and Nova had raised these dragons from their hatching day, taught them to fly and to breath fire. They were ready to be tamed and ridden but they had not yet mastered all of their abilities and skills. They did not know aerial tactics nor had they fully grasped their unique abilities. There would be alot of work to be done in training the tamers to work with their dragons, to fly, and in continuing to teach the dragons how to use their skills and preform manoeuvres in the sky.

"You remembered to inform the dragons once again that they are not to leave the ground with their tamers? We do not need anyone plummeting to their death. These dragons aren't skilled enough to execute a dive retrieval should their tamers fall." The great black dragon chuckled at his tamer's concern. "But of course Merrik, do you think I would forget such a thing?" Merrik felt foolish, he knew Obsidian Nova was always one step ahead of him.

"Well. I believe its time we start." Said Merrik. The massive drake beat down its massive black and red wings, soaring into the air and spiralling around before lifting up into the high skies. He released a jet of black flames that looked like melted night sky. In his great voice he sent his thoughts to the dragons in the dens behind the massive wooden doors that lined the coliseum. "It is your time young drakes, go out and select your tamers. This bond will be for the rest of your lives so choose wisely who you deem fit."

The nightmare drake spiralled down towards the coliseum, bringing Merrik closer to speak to the humans below. "The dragon are being released. Be brave, be strong. Be wise. For today, you become dragon tamers."

The massive wooden doors burst open and a spectrum of beasts soared into the skies. Flames of every color poured into the cool, midday air. Alysia, the elegant white dragon soared past Merrik and Obsidian Nova and Merrik could sense the black dragon watching her closely. He had always been fond of her, overly protective, drawn in by some unspeakable, unexplainable tether. She was the opposite of all that he was, she was fascinating.

Merrik smiled as he watched the event begin, his dear hatchlings were mature now, choosing tamers all their own and despite the forming of an army occuring before him, he could not help but feel pride, for these dragons were very much a key to the future of these lands. He laughed aloud as they began shooting flames are the dirt floor surrounding the new tamers, some dove and dipped seeing who would flee and who would hold their ground. The selective process was begining.

Everything was in clear focus.

Everything.

The sun's rays, shining down on each participant, casting deep shadows along the grounds and walls. The slight breeze, passing through the pillars of the magnificent colosseum she had been instructed to stay. The ambiance of the afternoon day, of the other participants surrounding her. Pale, washed down eyes remained obscured behind dark, closed lids; her chest rose and fell with each deep breath she took; her white-knuckled grip grasped tightly to the leather handle of her longsword; her toes flexed in and out within her deep brown boots. Her focus was completely stolen by the event that was inching it's way towards her, the event that would truly prove of the authenticity of this calling she had been summoned to. Being who she was, working with what she once worked with, gaining the skill she now had, would surely aid her in this process. Being a mercenary isn't a petty job - you need certain attributes in order to survive, you must have the ability to adapt and thrive in a variety of situations. Reina couldn't say that she was completely prepared for this important ritual, an understandable assumption, seeing how she had never once performed a bonding ceremony with any age or type of dragon - but she gathered herself up and pinpointed her main strengths nonetheless. Whatever she had, she'd use.

Her fingers flexed, opening and closing on her sword. Her expression was etched with subtle anxiety, concentrated seriousness, and complete control over herself. Her silence was encouraging. Her aura projected around her, the immersion she held in her mind. The young woman was no professional in the field of dragons - not by a long shot. She knew the basics, main breeds, various abilities, etcetera. In fact, she didn't even know that you could bond with a dragon, soul-to-soul, an unbreakable contract. Her eyebrows furrowed slightly. The fact alone was extremely interesting, yet also very worrying. How did this selection work? Did the humans select the dragons, or the dragons the humans? She couldn't be sure, and it frustrated her. Her brown smoothed out as her concentration calmed her back down. She shouldn't be stressing about that. She should only prepare herself for the most vigorous event possible. If it was less than that, fine; she'd adjust. If it was that, then she'd be ready for it.

She heard the disrupting sound of beating wings in the sky. Her eyes opened. The usual dark paleness was brightened with focus. Her grasp on her sword became tighter. Her muscles tensed. Her head tilted up towards the skies, and she felt a small note of surprise when she laid eyes on the flying figure among the light blue of the skies. She quickly recovered from it, though, her raised eyebrows etching back into her expression of readiness. She observed the figure release a pillar of darkness into the sky, a pillar of flame that resembled the deepest of pitch blacks in color, yet did not hold the gooey texture pitch attained, an odd sight for her to examine. The figure remained there momentarily before turning itself downwards and folding in it's massive wings for a small dive, causing one of Reina's feet to step back in a natural battle stance, torso twisting and gaze locking on to the figure of night.
It stopped just a little ways above the ground, the power of it's wings causing a draft to gust down onto the competitors with each beat, a faint shadow looming over the area, unsettled dust rising. She squinted towards it, seeing a silhouette of a man atop the dragon, and listening closely when she heard him call down to each person waiting on the dirt-covered ground in a booming tone, signaling for the soon-to-be-trainers to be prepared for the onslaught of dragons now coming forward. Her eyes widened. Her body tensed further. Her head suddenly snapped back down, her gaze quickly sweeping the colosseum walls. The grip on her sword tightened to the point she thought her knuckles may crack from the pressure.
She heard something creak, a groan of wood. All of her thoughts were swept from her mind and replaced with instinct as she spun around to find a wooden door being opened.

She never could have prepared herself for what came forth from it. Not without seeing it before.

The young woman stepped back and gasped when a sudden flood of colors and gusts of wind bursted out from the doors. Dragons of all sizes and colors soared forth from the wooden door and flew skyward, making her head tilt up in a powerful wave of shock. Something like shock was so uncommon for her to feel, so this must have been incredibly surprising to have affected even Reinalyn so potently. She was entranced. Her focus had momentarily been broken by the grace and magnificence of these creatures who were supposed to be myth, who she had been told held so much intelligence, who were living legends among men . . .
It was when she saw dragons shooting flames at the ground that she was pulled back into sharp focus, her breathing doing a stumble. Her heart quickened, rapidly pounding in her chest. What were they doing? Were they trying to kill the competitors? No, no, that'd be useless . . . this was a bonding ceremony. Why would the dragons be trained to kill if this was -

Her body completely froze when she suddenly felt heat surrounding her. Her head snapped towards the ground. She could already feel sweat forming, dripping down her face. Her legs coiled, as if preparing to spring forward. An orange glow seemed to wrap around her position, yet she couldn't bring herself to move. They didn't seem aimed at her. They'd have surely already hit her. No, no, it was a circular formation. The orange glow wrapped around her position, but did not touch her. Her mind was sprinting with her fast thoughts. Her breathing had stopped. The air was becoming hotter around her. Her eyes were darting around. She couldn't look up, she couldn't even move. Why couldn't she move? Why was her body so very stiff? She usually was never frozen the way she was now. Was this adrenaline coursing through her body, or was it fear? She couldn't distinguish it. It was usually so easy to pick out and label. Was it a mixture?

Her mind pulled itself from these rambling thoughts with a harsh scorn. Stop thinking about something as useless as that. Get yourself back into gear. Her mind seemed to switch her motor controls back on, and she could suddenly feel her muscles loosen enough for her to be mobile again. The indistinguishable feeling continued to pump vigorously through her entire body. Even though she could move, she didn't. She had nowhere to go, for one thing. The orange flames, as she now distinguished, had surrounded her entirely, crackling upwards and radiating a glowing sort of heat that made her sweat even more, the precipitation now dripping from her face. Plus, she felt an urge within her gut to trust these creatures. It was apparent now that the dragon who had forged this flame was in no mood to set her on fire, so that gave her an inkling of trust towards the situation. Though her natural instincts screamed at her to get the hell out of there, she pushed them down, preparing herself. No time to panic, Reina. Her chest pushed out and pulled in with a deep, steadying breath as she attempted to gain something from the air, which was growing hot and stuffy. She was preparing herself all over again, realizing that this was the worst-case situation she was being thrown into.
Her gaze tilted upwards slightly. She steadied her nerves.

So this is why he said 'be brave'.

Not a moment after the thought had crossed through Reina's mind did she feel the beating gusts of wings above her.
She felt her motor functions malfunction once more as she froze, unable to move. The beating grew louder. Her hair whipped about with the force of the wind. All thoughts were cut out of her mind once more as it grew so close, she thought she might just be blown away. A shadow contrasted with the bright orange glow that emanated from the flames surrounding her position as she felt a tremor rock the ground, the dust of the ground rising slightly as she heard and felt one of the magnificent dragons land before her.
She felt a surge of fear.
Now she could properly distinguish the emotion - it had been fear. Or, at least, that's what it switched to now. This beast that was now standing in front of her could take her down with a single swipe, with a single blow, without any effort. Her eyes widened, trained on the dirt covered ground. The sweating became more potent. She felt herself become encompassed in an aura of power that the dragon gave off. She could barely find the will to look up, but did so, feeling it'd be far worse for her to keep her eyes on the ground rather than look the dragon in the eye, show it that she was ready for whatever it came to inflict.

And so, with a dry swallow, Reina allowed her head to slowly tilt upwards. Her eyes came upon massive feet, each holding dangerously long claws, and she hesitated. No. No, don't stop. You can't stop. Keep going. She continued letting her head rise, scanning up the length of a muscled chest and shimmering scales of the brightest of oranges. Her head tilted up, her neck craning to reach the face of the beast. It's neck was long, and the dragon towered over her with it's glorious height. Her eyes finally achieved contact with the face of the dragon, and all too suddenly, the fear was taken out. It left no traces behind.
It was replaced with awe. Complete, irrevocable awe.
It's many sets of horns seemed to provide a crowning rim to the closed, powerful jaws and glowing eyes of the dragon. The color of it's eyes was a green, a bright, piercing emerald green which shot straight through her gaze and struck her heart with a powerful emotion she could not name. It overwhelmed her. It poured a new sense of strength through her limbs. It washed away the stress, the fear, of what this ritual had to bring, and replaced it with a sudden knowledge and fluidity that she only could have ever imagined to gain. Her tense body slackened and loosened, and the readied grip on her sword fell. She knew, she truly knew, that there would be no need for it in this. She found a sense of understanding that this dragon had a sure sense of intelligence, of knowledge, in it's actions. This was not a brutish, blood-seeking creature. It was a creature which held something that she never could have thought to exist in another living, breathing, mortal being.
She suddenly knew what she had to do.
Reina blinked. Her stance slowly rose from it's crouch. She stood herself taller, rose from her defensive stance carefully, her expression melting from awed to knowing. Her hands fell to her sides, balling into loose fists. There was no need to fear. No need to fight. The dragon acknowledged her shift in atmosphere, and breathed in and out a rumbling breath, his crowned head beginning to descend to her own eye level. She did not flinch or tense, though; this new piece that had filled her mind would make sure that she no longer felt complete fear in this glowing orange dragon's presence.

The emerald eyes were closer to her own washed-out blue. She stared into them, as the dragon stared into hers. Silence filled her area, with the exception of the dragon's quiet, rumbling breath and the crackling of flames surrounding them. She was immersed within this encompassing moment with this dragon. It was so completely intriguing to be in the presence of such a powerful and knowledgable being.
She was pulled from her entrancement when she heard something enter her mind - only to become completely entranced once more. A voice spoke to her without the dragon's mouth opening. It was a deep voice, a warm voice, yet a voice that resonated power and the heat it's very body gave off alongside it. It occupied every nook and cranny of her thought process as she listened to the words it spoke, and listened closely:

What is your title, damsel of furs?

Damsel of furs. He must have been referring to the furs she wore alongside her armor. Reina did a slow blink, taking a beat of silence, allowing the dragon's powerful presence to saturate her mind and enter into her thoughts without hesitation. Reina's figure rose to be taller as she responded verbally, her tone of voice filled with respectful seriousness, but a sense of courage along with it:

". . . Reinalyn Velovins. Reaper of unwanted souls."

The dragon's eyes of emerald flared, filling Reina with a new emotion she once more could not correctly place. The dragon's deep tone rumbled in her mind once more, now edged with apparent curiosity, Reinalyn Velovins. The dragon's head rose. She felt the ground start to tremble as the dragon began a slow tread around Reina, the emerald gaze scanning up and down her body as he circled her with the same curiosity. Reaper of unwanted souls . . . such a title suggests you have taken away lives, Renlalyn Velovins. The dragon came to a stop, it's neck curved and it's body of soft, glowing orange now curled around, surrounding Reina. It seemed to give off a light glow of heat, which matched with it's warm color of scales. She had stopped sweating from nervousness, now simply sweating slightly from the heat.
The dragon did a breath through it's nostrils, creating an airy sound and having a puff of either steam or light smoke come out with it. The dragon then asked within her mind, staring into her eyes as if he could see the most scattered parts of her scarred heart, What could you be? A soldier? A villian?
Reina felt herself stiffen as she tried to forge a response to that question. She couldn't lie. It was impossible for her to lie and get away with it, with the wiseness this dragon seemed to hold. She forged a sentence in her mind that would work, and took a deep breath as she responded in a more solemn manner, "Neither. I was given rewards to kill others who deserved to be."
The silence that ensued after this made her feel intrigued about the thoughtfulness of the dragon. It continued staring at her, it's eyes seeming to narrow a tad. The dragon's voice was more calculating, expectant, as it spoke again, Rewards. The dragon moved from around her, returning to a straightened position and allowing it's head to rise back up to it's tall height.
What use would you have for these rewards?

Another calculating question. It was far more meaningful than any of the other questions he had asked of her, as if there was something deeper to it that he was counting on hearing, and she already had a response rolling off of her tongue before she could realize she had it, "To save someone I loved."
The dragon seemed to stop in it's tracks. He fell into a bought of consideration again as he stared down at Reina's small figure. The dragon spoke again, in a much more intrigued tone, asking her, . . . Save a loved one? From what? Why take away the lives of others for such a meager purpose?
Reina suddenly felt something she hadn't been expecting to feel in the presence of this dragon, or in the presence of any other creature, considering she didn't appear to hold any of the emotion within her - anger. Meager purpose? The shift in her aura was apparent as her expression hardened, the previous fear completely gone at this point. She responded strongly, her voice holding her anger within it, "Saving my mother is no meager purpose. She was the only family I knew and had."
The dragon was in silence for a moment, noticing her shift in atmosphere. It seemed to be thinking again, except there was an emotion in there that she found rather suspicious alongside the satisfaction of seeing such a surprised reaction. It lowered it's head further towards her as it spoke again, practically begging for her to retaliate in an angered manner once more, Was she using you for her own gain? Perhaps simply manipulating you for her own greed-

"Never! My mother was sick, and I never even had the chance to save her!" The dragon's expression had become surprised when she suddenly interrupted him, a surprise that seemed to be melting into his own sense of fury that she had done so. But this didn't stop Reina from continuing in this rare moment of anger as the soft spot was prodded too much, "I became a killer for her, not for fame or fear, so don't you or anyone else ever tell me that it was for a sinful purpose!"
The dragon released a rumbling snarl as soon as she had finished her sudden and harsh retaliation, it's head descending and getting very, very close to her, taking a step or two forward warningly. But Reina did not move a muscle. The dragon's fangs were bared, eyes locked with hers. Though her instincts once again were screaming at her to run, and were coiling her body for her to bolt, she did not go an inch from her spot. Her burning gaze scorched right back through the piercing emerald one before her, and as the dragon realized that she wasn't going to move, the two reckoning forces suddenly came to a shuddering halt. Both human and dragon eyes widened. Everything came to the most derailing and unexpected stops as the emotion was finally recognized in the eyes of the bright orange dragon. The emotion of suffering, but purposeful suffering, noble suffering, that caused pain to every beat of her wounded heart. The pain that was all for a purpose, for a good purpose. For a selfless purpose. The dragon's expectations had been reached as he recognized these characteristics brewing within the eyes and heart of this young woman. His test of courage of the mind, his test of nobleness of the soul, had been fulfilled to the highest expectations.
And with this being completed, and his ultimate decision being made, the bond then began to form.
Mind connected to mind. The forces, human and dragon, clicked together in a way no other could ever truly click with Reina. It made the fire of rage burning in her die back down; soul intertwined with soul, memory with memory. It was surprising that the very physical body of the dragon wasn't meshing with the human. Everything transferred, and even the dragon seemed entranced in the memories brought into his mind, every hardship she had endured, every kill that had injured her soul. She felt the self-inflicted scars of her spirit be filled and closed by the growing warmth of the dragon's own spirit. She watched the memories of flight, of learning, of beauty come to her mind, and felt a portion of herself be filled. An empty part of her soul that she never realized was empty was filled with a closeness she had only ever felt when in the presence of her own mother, something that was so powerful that it pushed through her jadedness and brought tears to her eyes. The connection she received wasn't only a completely new, absolutely awe-inspiring feeling that was being so graciously provided.

It reminded her of her mother. It reminded her of her once happier, more beautiful life, of home.

Tears rolled down her cheeks as the bond forged a strong, surely ever-lasting grip, the emerald eyes of the dragon calming down, the sharing of a soul seeming to fill the dragon as well. She felt him. She felt what he did. She could hear his mind. It was a dazzling connection that was absolutely fascinating to her. It was all so overwhelming, and the feeling of home was the most potent of it all. She watched as the dragon leaned it's head forward and ever so gently nuzzled it's snout into her, the breathing of it's nose pulling at her loose clothing as it drew out her scent, speaking to her mentally in a tone that made the tears she always held in so often come flowing out all in that moment, You . . . you risked your life for the one that you loved. You killed for them . . . and you stood up to a big creature like me without a flinch. There's a remarkable amount of bravery in you. Of selflessness. The dragon's tone was fascinated, yet at the same time soft and true. The dragon's eyes of emerald closed as he spoke to her again in the depth that the bond was providing and honesty that she could never pass off as faked, I am impressed, and honored, to be by your side, Reinalyn Velovins. I am Aestus, dragon of the sun, and I am proud to be your bonded partner.
A long pause of silence ensued after that as Renia recovered from her overwhelmed state, and she then allowed her arms to rise up and rest gently on the snout of the dragon, Aestus. The tears were silent ones, but the emotion that hung between these two forces of bravery and fierceness was so potent, that even those in the surrounding area could feel it, but never as much as these two were experiencing it. Her cheek rested on his bright orange scales, whispering back mentally to him, Thank you, Aestus.

She could never have forged a tone that could express her gratitude enough. It was remarkable how quickly her emotions had changed, all because of this bond she once found so unlikely to form. It was unbelievable. She was sure she'd snap awake from some completely crazy dream, but hoped with all her might that she wouldn't. The young woman kept herself rested on the dragon who was once a complete stranger, but now the one creature who was the closest person she had ever, ever had in her life, on more than just a mortal connection - on a spiritual connection as well.

Yennefer had prepared herself well for this moment. She understood the various stages and triggers of shock and could pot her own reactions to the second. She had kept the image of the giant black dragon in her mind, forcing herself to understand how large and ferocious they would seem to her and grooming herself to remain calm in the face of such forces. She could have no idea what was going to happen in this arena, but the atmosphere had taken on a latent tension and the air around her tingled as though electrified. She was suddenly very aware of every sound, every movement, and her body had naturally tensed up and hunched her into a more defensive stance. Abruptly there was the sound of fire and a gust of cold wind, eddies and currents catching and playing with her thick red hair and billowing about her face, she had forgotten to tie it up this day of all days. Her skirts ruffled around her ankles as well as she snapped her neck up briefly to catch a glimpse of the pitch black dragon spiraling through the sky and wonder at its grace for a moment, lost slightly in her awed gaze.

She was snapped violently out of her wonderment by the creak of a giant wooden gate, a sound that sent a pulse of energy up her spine and made her wheel about to face it. She forgot her fellows in the arena and focused on slowing the beat of her hammering heart, her self preparation leaving her as quickly as it had come. The gate fell open further and she wrestled to seize back control of her mind and body, forcing her spine upright and battling to still her wild thoughts, something she had great practice in. You could not save lives with shaking hands. There was a moment of calm when the doors were fully open, three shuddering heartbeats pounding against her ribcage... and then everything fell into chaos. Fire and heat swirled and crescendo-ed around them and the roars and screeches and wing beats of enormous creatures pounded at her eardrums. She cried out and covered her face and head, maintaining her footing but shivering away from the scorching heat and roaring noise. She opened her eyes to find she was blind from the brightness of the flames, only ever glimpsing flashes of coloured scales now and again before they disappeared back into the inferno. Delirious, confused and frightened, she desperately tried to cling to her wits against the barrage of sensation filling the stadium.

All of a sudden there was a massive, quaking thud to her left and she spun around just in time to watch a great behemoth of muscle and scale stride out of the fire towards her. His head towered high above hers, massive curled horns arching back and around his skull like a crown. Yennefer's heart skipped a beat as his Bronze eyes met her own and his massive maw snaked down from its great height to face her completely. She only faltered for a moment, wavering on the spot, fighting the urge to step back from the terrifying jaws of the beast and standing her ground against the colossus. Again there was a moments silence, just the thunderous breathing of this Mahogany giant as they both searched each other's faces, tension rippling through the atmosphere. Yennefer felt ticks and twitches run across her skin, her mind in a whirl of possible ends to this scenario. How was this operation going to go? What could go wrong? What was the best course of action? How would her subject react? The Dragon's eyes were a void to loose yourself in, so young and yet seemingly older than time. She sensed a wealth of intellect and pride behind its gaze, a mentality of nobility and poise that was not self-aggrandizement but just simply the truth. She saw these things, she diagnosed her subject and considered how she should react, how would she normally react to a meeting? Something clicked. Then, ever so slowly, Yennefer gathered her skirts and dipped low into a well controlled curtsy and held her position, eyes lowered, as she awaited his reaction. There was another moment of intensely charged silence and then a sound like an avalanche on a mountainside filled the air. Yennefer opened her eyes to see her Dragon, head low, eyes closed, wings stretched flat on the ground with one massive front paw elegantly clasped across his chest, bowing chivalrously before her. The site of him seemed to rock her grasp on the fabric of space and time, some ancient vibration quaked her soul and pulsed against her heart as she watched his eyes open and his head rise to its cloudy heights once more.

And what treasures do you guard, My gracious Lady?

His voice in her mind thrummed like the drums of war.

"The Lives of the living, Noble Sir."

He hummed thoughtfully, the reverberations making pebbles on the ground bounce and dance at his feet.

And what thieves do you guard this treasure from?

Yennefer stood taller, her heart still thrumming and pulsing with some unknown force.

"Death. I guard them from death. But I do not succeed as often as I should like."

The Dragon rumbled in approval and stretched his wings out so that their glimmering golden underside caught the light and suffused Yennefer in a golden glow and she was struck in awe at his majesty.

I am Methuzar, My lady, I hear your mind.

His name hummed in her thoughts and threaded into her unconscious mind, weaving into the pattern of her memories and enveloping her essence of being. She hadn't known her head was so empty before now, but she could not be gladder to fill the hollow spaces. Methuzar hummed in warm agreement and lowered his head once more so that he might touch the peak of his nose to the crown of her forehead, the most delicate of brushes from the softer lip of his muzzle as he breathed in the smell of her. They quietly familiarised themselves with one another, blissfully unaware of the drama unfolding about them.

The wait was almost painful.

Irin stood there, flexing the toes within his boots, as he waited for something to happen. Everyone was so quiet... so nervous... so tense. And they had plenty of reason to be. Supposedly they would tame dragons today. Irin couldn't believe it when he was told, and he still couldn't believe it. The fiercest beasts of legend, here, and one of them would be with him for the rest of his days? Admittedly, that wasn't what he was here for. He smelled money in all this, and he could use as much as he could get, for sellsword jobs were getting far too scarce. Getting a dragon was merely a bonus in his mind. Although... such a fierce companion would make jobs that much easier for him...

His thoughts were interrupted when out of the corner of his eye, he saw a large black shape launch into the sky. Long and slender... bat-like wings... Yep, that was a dragon, and it was huge! It promptly stalled, and released a jet of... black flame... into the air. So dark, yet somehow it gave off light. That couldn't be possible, yet Irin was seeing it with his own eyes. This... This was as magical as a dream, yet as fearsome as a nightmare. His jaw hung wide open at the sight, yet he had no idea he had done so.

Then a voice rang out from the black shape. "The dragon are being released. Be brave, be strong. Be wise. For today, you become dragon tamers." A man's voice, for sure. The voice of the same man who told him to come here. But how was it so loud? Nothing about this shape made any sense. Irin just stared at it with bewilderment, not even registering just what the shape was saying.

Then a whole mob of roars resounded across the colosseum. Irin jumped in surprise, letting out a yelp as well. He quickly turned around, only to be even more surprised. Red. Gold. Green. Pink. Brown. Blue. White... So many colors seemed to erupt from the gate as dragon after dragon emerged into the morning, spewing a whole spectrum of flame. One of these fierce beasts would be his and his alone. But which one?

Then he saw her. A stunningly graceful and slender body with scales of the purest of silver. The fire around her reflecting and making her glitter with every movement. She was the swan of the dragons, the most beautiful being he'd ever laid eyes on. Why, he couldn't bear to let anyone else take her. She was his and his alone. Plus, any scales she shed would fetch him a fortune. And yet, those sharp claws, those thick muscles, that... silver fire breath. This rose was guarded with the sharpest of thorns; thorns that could slice him to ribbons if they so wished. But this dragon... He wanted this dragon so badly. He looked down at himself, and back at the silver dragon. Back and forth. He was compelled to do this. But this wasn't going to be a battle of strength. This was a battle of will. He pulled his sword out of its sheath and set it on the ground, then removed his bow and quiver of arrows, setting them on the ground. This battle was not one to be fought with weapons. No, this battle would be between him and his dragon.

"You!" He shouted at the dragon, charging his way towards the fierce beast. "You're mine!"

The dragon looked at him, her face turning into a snarl. Foolish brat! she projected into his mind. I am not your beast to conquer! She spewed a jet of flame at the ground in front of her to block his path as she beat her wings to take off into the sky. Irin pivoted his right foot and sprung himself to the left, deftly dodging the flames. He sprinted around the fire and leapt for the silver dragon's tail, wrapping both his arms and legs around it just before it went out of reach. He was determined to have her as his dragon and no one else.

The silver dragon wobbled back and forth, clearly unable to balance herself with so much weight on her tail. Master Merrik prohibits us from hurting you, but if you fall off and break your puny neck, that's your fault and your fault alone!

"I...don't...care!" Irin said between clenched teeth. Reaching for one of the tail spikes, Irin grabbed hold of it with one hand, and reached for the next one with the other. He could feel the beast falter at his reaction, but he didn't stop as he slowly made his way up her back. "I... will settle... for nothing less... than the finest!"

So you're not blind, that's good. She spoke into his mind, her hostility beginning to subside. You're strong enough to hang on for dear life. Her tone then became cheery. And you're either very brave or very stupid. I like that. But that's not enough for me. She beat her wings, launching herself straight forward, over the rainbow of flames, the heat nearly smothering Irin, who by this point was clinging onto the dragon's neck. It was then he rotated himself around to the other side of the neck, and wrapped an arm around the dragons jaw. Then the other, and with his legs, he pushed himself up so that he was looking the dragon in the eye with the most intense of stares.

"What more do you wish from me?" He practically shouted at her.

The dark slit in her eye widened as it gazed at him with equal intensity. Why are you here? What do you wish to gain from this ordeal.

"I... I need the money!"

The dragon roared in anger, shaking her head. I am disappointed. I do not want a greedy rider.

"No, I... I need it to save my brother!"

Time suddenly slowed to a halt. Suddenly nothing existed but Irin and this dragon. Then a tide seemed to rush into Irin's mind as he was filled with memories. Her memories, they became his, as his became hers.

Darkness, pierced by light. The light expanded to reveal the smiling face of a man, a man who became like a father. He and his black dragon, training her and her siblings to fly, and to breath fire, telling them that one day, they would each have a rider of their own, as the man was to the black dragon. They were worked to the bone with training. She just wanted to play with her brothers and sisters, but the man told them that this was very important, and that they must do as he said. Months passed, here she was, a fully matured dragon, and today was the day she would meet her rider. The doors opened, and they were met with a ragtag group of men and women, one of which would be her rider. One of them approached her. One foolish and persistant brat came after her, and refused to let her escape. He proved to be strong, good with words, brave, and noble. His name was Irin Wyrda, and his dragon?

Uram.

That was her name. A name of beauty, yet with a sting of ferocity in it.

All of this rushed through Irin's mind in a matter of seconds, leaving him absolutely shocked at what he'd just experienced. Uram, too, seemed to be equally shocked, for the bonding of dragon and rider is an experience like no other. Irin's grip faltered, and he slipped, desperately scrambling for something to hold, when he felt his arms wrap around one of Uram's front legs.

I believe a handshake is how you humans greet each other? She said with a smug tone to her thoughts. Irin blinked in surprise, then began to laugh, but his laugh was interrupted as he was casually tossed to the ground, which at this point was no less than five feet below them. Oops. Uram said sarcastically, nudging him with her snout. Irin lay there, laughing again, as he brought his hand up and stroked her smooth cheek.

This was a bond that only fate could make real.

The tension was in the air, one could simply feel it as it could possibly be best described as the calm before the storm. All these would be tamers including herself were standing in this massive coliseum awaiting for the young ling dragons to come out and test and choose their tamers. Ryhana was a guards-women and a tough cookie at that but she also had a heart. As she awaiting with the others for the dragons to emerge and no doubt the ensuing chaos, Ryhana had a moment to think about how she ended up here, it was back in Solona where she was born and lived all her life. She never needed to venture outside the walls unless her duty required her to do so and her hard work had got her to the opportunity to be guard captain something she shed blood, sweat and tears for to prove herself worthy but it was also the time she came into contact with this mysterious fellow called Merrick who seeked an audience with her.

He spoke of pretty mad and wondrous things during the conversation which at first made Ryhana think he was mad but something about him peaked her curiosity, He spoke of dragons and tamers, The stuff of myth and legend, Of how he was lead to her to become one of these dragon riders of this old legend, Of course Ryhana although curious dismissed it and took some serious persuading for the woman to leave the city walls to prove what Merrick was telling her to be true, But it paid of as the guard-woman stood in awe at the sight of Obsidian Nova, A large black dragon that flexed its wings and let out a jet of black flames. It was certain one hell of a sight and considering the black darkness that was rumoured to be coming, Ryhana had to make a tough choice stay and be captain of the guard of Solona, Or become a dragon rider from the legends.

Her mind now back in the coliseum, It was clear what her decision was, it was not an easy one but felt that she could do more to help and protect those in need on the back of a legendary dragon, But to become a tamer was no easy task from the looks of it as they stood in an arena awaiting young dragon to come out and test them, what this test or bond as Merrick called entailed was a unknown for her and her curiosity is what got her here also even if it has got her right in a pickle of it. The sight of Nova doing his thing once more was amazing but it was a signal of something coming to fruition as Merrick spoke of the dragons being release and that today they would become the stuff of legends, A dragon rider. His was motivating speaking of strength and bravery like he was speaking as a captain of the guard, well this situation was on a much larger and grander scale.

Moments later the great wooden doors opened and once again the tension filled the air, Ryhana had no idea how on earth she was to tame a young ling dragon, A simple run and jump on its back saying your mine sounded a little to easy and a little wrong, thoughts crossed her mind though, did she pick one out or did one of these beautiful beast or they choose her? Her wrists where resting on the handle of her short swords, breathing steadily and keeping a calm composure. Within moments a host on dragons of all shape, sizes and colour poured out into the sky and made an amazing mixture of colour in the sky, it was an awe inspiring and beautiful thing to witness that brought a smile to her face. Although that smile evaporated when the dragons turned their attention to herself and others below flying down to see who would run, hide or something of the sort and to see if they would panic from the flames being shot around them.

Ryhana senses were on overdrive it was exhilarating and dangerous at the same time, She did not fear of death or serious injury based on that Merrick claimed they would be tamer today and thus must show their abilities to be brave and strong and what these young ones throw at them. Normally by instinct by now she would have drawn her swords but what would that accomplish? instead she unclipped her belt and placed down her weapons on the ground before standing up in a defensive stance as she saw on of the dragons swoop down at her where performed a dodge roll to avoid that particular young dragon playing with the tamers and testing them, she could see others getting their dragons through different means and the most funniest one had to be the guy hanging on to a silver dragons tail, it looks very amusing and certainly couldn't question his determination or his stupidity.

In the moment in lapse of concentration there was a thud behind her, Ryhana spun round to see a green dragon standing before her, but not toying with her like the others, maybe this one would provide a different test? She thought to herself, The mighty creature look calm and non aggressive stance. It looked smaller than the others and had distinctive brown eyes and smaller wings, maybe a connection there already smaller and more nimble over brute strength, Something Ryhana trained hard in. The green dragon looked at her, was it curious? sizing her up for compatibility? maybe it was part of the test and she was missing the whole point of it. "Why have you placed your weapons down? You are not afraid of us?" The dragon projected into her mind, It shocked her of the sheer feeling of that sent chills down her spine, it was an amazing experience even if it was speaking to her and in a female tone, she was a female. Ryhana spoke up "Because I do not wish to bring harm young children, Even if they are bigger than me.... And can fly" She tailed of hoping it understood her way of saying they are young.

Without realizing it this impressed the dragon before her. "And why did you choose to be a warrior?" was the next question the dragon asked her. "I chose to serve the guard like my father before me, to help protect the innocent and the poor from crime and corruption." There was a moment of silence. "This is curious, you are a fighter and warrior but with a caring heart.. An interesting combination." The dragon stepped closer kneeling down closer to her face, Ryhana took a step back but held her ground. But then this unusual feeling came about her, Everything around her and the dragon just faded like it was just one them and no one else. The feeling felt like bliss and amazing, She was bonding with the green dragon, A rush of feelings and emotion, fear and comforts with memories began to feel her mind as Ryhana could feel the dragon within her, they were connected and never before did Ryhana feel so complete, She always felt there was something missing in a life.

And when it was all done Ryhana could feel everything the dragon could and its memories since birth, What Merrick had done to help them and protect them was amazing, it was a powerful and emotional feeling that she was still getting used to. "Young tamer, We have bonded, from now on we are always connected together and can feel each other thought's, emotions and memories for we are one" The female dragon projected into Ryhana's mind who was overwhelmed with emotion as she just experienced
the best possible thing in life, She looked a Merrick feeling a great liking and respect for the man for what he has done even if she don't know all about him and his burden yet.

"He looked after you for two years and brought us together" It was a proud moment and Ryhana only wished her father was here to see it as a see looked back at her dragon, A tear slowly going down her face, it was a tear of joy. "Ryhana, Your father would be proud of you, you have honoured him well" Ryhana smiled more with some extra tears. "You have a heart of gold.... Azadeth" Ryhana projected into her dragons mind this time before speaking normally again thinking of her father "Thank you" Ryhana added while placing hand softly onto the side of Azadeth's face and using the other to whip away her tears, there emotional bond was complete.

Arameus had meet Lord Merrik months before in the southernmost region of the Kingdom and thought him mad only moments into Lord Merrik's incredible tale of raising Dragons and recruiting Tamer's. Serving as the King's Justicar at the time, Arameus had grown accustomed to hearing wild and odd tales from village drunks and from those not in their right mind and of low birth, but to hear such a tale from a Lord, a person of prominence and high birth caused him to be quite skeptical about the validity of the tale being told him, but he had given Lord Merrik the benefit of a doubt given his title, needless to say, when presented with the appearance of Lord Merrik's black Dragon, Arameus became a believer. Now, months later here he stood in the center of the Coliseum with the other potential Dragon Tamer's, to be truthful, he'd of thought Lord Merrik would of sought out other Knights, noble warriors whom lived and fought by a code of honor, defenders of the faith and of the weak, true warriors worthy of riding such a magnificent beast as a Dragon.

"The dragon are being released. Be brave, be strong. Be wise. For today, you become dragon tamers."

Lord Merrik's voiced boomed like thunder and was still echoing across the Coliseum when suddenly massive wooden doors burst open and a spectrum of beasts soared into the skies. Flames of every color poured into the cool, midday air. Arameus stood in awe at the sight, despite having seen the black Dragon months before, in the back of his mind Dragons still seemed a thing of legend and fairytales, yet here he was watching several of the mythical creatures soar and dip in the air above him.

Fear is a natural human instinct, seeing Dragons flying overhead would be cause enough for fear, the thought of being burnt alive would also be cause enough for fear, fire raining down from Dragons flying overhead did cause fear, only a fool would admit otherwise, but with years of training and battle hardened nerves, Arameus steeled his resolve and stood his ground, it would of been pointless to run in any case, being out in the center of the vast Coliseum floor with no protection and too far to run to cover would of only delayed the inevitable, and afterall, Lord Merrik did say this was part of a test, hadn't he?. Arameus flintched out of reaction as a fireball hit the floor closer then cared for and he covered and shut his eyes tight as the black smoke mixed with sand from the impact covered him. once the shower of sand passed, he lowered his arm and opened his eyes, from the dispersing smoke the white Dragon appeared.

The creature strode towards him, with what seemed a confident, regal bearing, massive head held high and crystal blue orbs that seemed to measure his worth with a touch of distain, the Dragon was not only completely white but seemed to radiate an aura like shimmering diamonds even within the dimly lit Coliseum. As the white Dragon drew closer, Arameus instinctive reaction was to reach for the hilt of his sword, a move which caused the the creature to look at him as if to say, "Seriously". Arameus dropped his hand from the swords hilt and shrugged then looked up into those crystal blue orbs sheepishly.

The moment they locked gazes, a dull throbbing started at the base of his skull and grew with white hot intensity throughout his brain, unexpected shock and pain exploded inside his head and he dropped to his knees clutching his head in his hands. As the pain continued visions of his past appeared to him, memories long ago sealed away and forgotten, his time at the orphanage, years of service as a squire, then as a Knight, the Bar Wenches he had bedded, the battles fought and the men he had killed, every memory he ever had seemed to come forth and be laid bare much to his utter surprise and anguish.

[ Raise to your feet Knight ]

The voice was soft, feminine, reassuring, replacing the searing pain that invaded his thoughts, puzzled and confused he looked around at the others thinking one of them speaking to him, until he felt the warmth exhale of the white Dragons nostrils on top of his head,

[ Raise to your feet Knight, there is much for us to discuss ]

Arameus rose to his feet tentatively, his vision locking with that of the white Dragon once again, he blinked his eyes several times rapidly, "yo-your speaking... to me?, how is this possible?", he questioned verbally which seemed to draw a smug expression from the Dragon,

[ Not so much as speaking as a simple human such as you would understand speaking to be, but an exchange of thoughts, surely one such as yourself knows enough to know Dragons cannot speak ]

"Sorry", Arameus replied, "I must of been home sick the day Dragon anatomy was taught in school",

[ Well then, it shall be a pleasure to begin your education ]

The Dragonish grin that followed was not at all very reassuring.

The air was dry. Far too dry. The hum of insects and the acrid smell of swamp water did not fill the air. Instead, the wind blew quietly through groves of lush green trees instead of sitting in a haze over muck and mire. Piercing rays of sunlight beamed through the clouds, a much different tone to the near perpetual darkness of Rashi'ik's homeland. Everything was new and strange, which kept the shaman on edge. Recalling the fateful day that a stranger from a far off land appeared in his village, his thoughts returned to home. From his ritual fire which burned lowly inside his wicker hut, to his collection of herbs and various dried ingredients which hung from the ceiling in organized rows for easy retrieval. Rashi'ik was sitting, eyes closed and meditating when he heard a stranger come stepping loudly into his dwelling.

"I've been expecting you," was his solemn reply and merely a few words passed between them before he gathered what few belongings he felt were worth keeping and headed out of his land, away from his people and into the unknown. He knew that his fate did not belong in the swamp, but he was waiting. Patiently waiting many a fortnight for the call of destiny to spirit him away to his true calling.

Now here he stood, silently gazing at the congregation of strangers who were talking, walking and quite frankly making too much noise for his taste. Gazing at their dress, he wondered how they were even able to move at all with all the clothing they wore. Bodices and leather armor, some even had even strapped boards to their arms and even worse, others were layered in thick sheets of metal. All he needed was his rough stitched leather pants and skull helm which adorned his face. The only weapon he carried was his trusted battle staff which was lashed to his back by a thin leather strap for easy retrieval, yet reliable security. His eyes flitted back and forth, observing and waiting patiently for something, anything to happen. If anything, he was beginning to question his choice to leave his swamp, for so far his voyage to the outside world had been uneventful and downright boring. The thought of Merrik lying about these so called "dragons" even flitted across his imagination once or twice.

Suddenly, a great black beast darted into the sky, releasing a fearsome jet of black fire upon the heavens. Upon seeing this, Rashi'ik immediately ripped his staff from his back and adopted a defensive stance, continuing to observe the situation. Up in the heavens, he could see a small figure sitting upon the back of the beast and any traces of doubt immediately vanished from his mind. The dragons were real after all, and perhaps he would soon ally with such awesome power. Just as he began to imagine himself soaring along the sky atop the wings of a dragon, the black dragon descended, and Merrik called out:

"The dragon are being released. Be brave, be strong. Be wise. For today, you become dragon tamers."

Shortly after, a conflagration of colors filled the sky as a horde of dragons was released into the air. After flying about for a bit, they began to descend on the arena where many different tamers were confronted with dragons of all different colors. Even after all the dragons had descended on each of the others, a single dragon soared above, observing intently at the near chaos which was erupting below. Rashi'ik could swear the beast was eyeing him as it flew wide circles, before gliding down a few steps in front of him. Rashi'ik never flinched, even as the dragon began to take heavy steps toward him. The olive tint of the dragon's skin reminded Rashi'ik of his homeland and even comforted him as the creature lumbered closer, bringing it's massive head only a few inches from his face as the two stared eye to eye for a few moments, silently judging each other. Rashi'ik took a step to the left, circling around the dragon which was met with an equal footing in kind. The two circled each other for a moment before stopping suddenly at which point he began to circle to the right which was also mirrored by the dragon. After a while of silently judging each other, Rashi'ik felt a presence begin to prod at his mind. He resisted strongly, which prompted the dragon's eyes to widen briefly, then slant as the presence tried even harder to penetrate Rashi'ik's defense. Holding firm to his defense, he even attempted to try and reach out against the force in futility, but in doing so caused the beast to move his head slowly to Rashi'ik, knocking him to the ground as he stared intently at this defiant human. Finally, Rashi'ik figured it was in his best interest to let the giant winged lizard have his way and a flood of emotion and memories rushed into his mind. Suddenly he knew much about this dragon, and he figured the dragon knew the same of him. Taking a moment to compose himself, he rested his hand on the dragon's snout as it's name suddenly flitted into existence over his consciousness.

Mandragor.

As the two began to pour over each other's experiences and memories, Rashi'ik relived some of the pain of his alienated youth, the pride of becoming a shaman and the awe of seeing Mandragor for the first time. He also began to feel a loneliness within Mandragor, although when he tried to pursue it further, the part of his mind became resistant and impenetrable as Mandragor bellowed a command into his mind.

"Well then shaman, let us see whether you are worthy of my time or if you shall make a tasty morsel! Strike me if you can!"

Mandragor bared his teeth at Rashi'ik as a tuft of smoke escaped his nostrils. The dragon suddenly rushed forward, snapping at Rashi'ik and he just barely jumped out of the way before Mandragor took a gaping bite out of the air where he once was.

"Quick! And smart! Perhaps I won't make a meal of you yet!" the words poured into Rashi'ik's mind in an almost laughing manner. The shaman steeled himself as he rushed forward, executing a ferocious swing towards the dragon's neck which was deftly dodged with a fluid motion by Mandragor. The two went back and forth, sparring for a few moments before the dragon spoke again:

"Alright, alright enough! I grow weary of this cat and mouse. Come, I have searched your mind and deemed you worthy Blood Born. I would be honored to make you my pet."

Rashi'ik cocked his head a bit in confusion, then sheathed his weapon and began to step towards Mandragor. "I will not suffer being your pet, dragon, but I do look forward to the days to come, Mandragor." he projected into his partners mind as they carried on together.

“What am I doing here?” She questioned herself as she stared at the large wooden doors, surrounded by strangers all here for the same purpose. It made her uncomfortable. Everyone aware of one another. She felt in the open, unhidden. She had nothing to gain from this escapade, nothing she could think of. Except...for a dragon. Yes, having a dragon of her own sounded quite nice. Just think of it, all the things that became possible for her. Traveling would be much quicker, maybe it'd be easier for her to intimidate people. Surely a dragon would get her out of a lot of trouble. Who knows, maybe there would even be a big buyer for this dragon of hers. After all, she was a rogue, and a rogue does love the coin.

A roar from the skies interrupted her thoughts and when she looked up, she saw a black dragon soaring above. She recognized this dragon, as just a few weeks ago it was used to sway her into this ordeal. If Merrik wouldn't have presented to her his dragon, she'd of thought the man was mad. But upon seeing a dragon with her own eyes, she was sold. However, based on her histories, she wasn't really sure why Merrik even came to her. She was the rogue type, after all. Sneaky things, always stealing, never to be trusted. She'd kill if she had to, a kill the victim wouldn't see coming. Why was she so deserving of this great pleasure? She knew her tendencies were wrong, in a sense. So why would Merrik call onto her? Fate, perhaps? She wasn't so sure.

Her thoughts were interrupted again as Merrik called out to the tamers, his voice echoing throughout the grand Colosseum.

“Be brave, be strong. Be wise.” She said to herself. Strength and bravery weren't much to a rogue. She didn't need the strength to succeed. She needed her speed. She didn't need to be brave to pull through. She needed luck. But wisdom, wisdom was a rogue's niche. 'Be quick, be lucky, and for God's sake, be wise.'

Suddenly, her attention was averted as the wooden doors burst open. Before she could see what happened, blurs of color spiraled over their heads and dispersed into the sky. She couldn't fathom which one might be hers, there were so many options.

'Greetings, rogue.'

Startled by the sudden voice, Myar spun around, peering her eyes at the other tamers standing around her. It took her a moment to realize she hadn't actually heard the voice, but the voice was merely in her head. She smirked and looked into the sky. “Alright, which one are you?” She could hear the dragon's thoughts, but she couldn't pick out which one it was.

'That is for you to figure out, on your own. Can you not detect me? I thought for a rogue, that this would have been easier for you.'

Just then, her eyes were momentarily blinded by the flickering of a light. Her eyes darted from dragon to dragon trying to find the source. Her eyes caught onto a dragon that had clear membranous wings, and shining through those wings was a beauty Myar hadn't even seen in her treasures. The sun shining through the dragon's wings emitted a beautiful blend of blues and greens, colors swirling and dancing together like the Boreal lights in the Northern skies.

The dragon descended softly to the ground.

Myar took the time to examine her. She was large, but certainly not as large as Obsidian Nova, and stood no taller than herself. Her scales were a beautiful icy blue, and when light hit them just right, the iridescent qualities in her scales would flicker blues and purples. She had large teeth and thick claws, and not to mention those wings.

'So, you found me.' Her purple eyes flickered. 'Am I a treasure worth taking,' the dragon asked as she released a small bit of cyan fire at the rogue.

Myar dodged the fire quite easily, but didn't expect the second attack that came right after and managed to burn her arm. The dragon sent more attacks, bit by bit, shooting them faster, larger, intensifying the heat. Myar continuously evaded each one, dodging, ducking, and flipping over the blue flames until eventually she ended up face to face with the dragon. Myar could feel the breath of the dragon, a breath so cold, it froze the tips of her hair. The two stared intently into eachother's eyes and shared a moment of deep silence.

The dragon purred. 'Hello, young one. I am Iyrades, a Daughter of the Winter lands.' She spoke in a soft, tender voice.

Myar reached out and rested her hand between the dragon's eyes. Her scales were surprisingly smooth and slightly cold to the touch.

Upon contact, Myar's mind was flooded with Iyrades' past: her birth, her training with Merrik, playing with her brothers and sisters, and then the anticipation before meeting her tamer. In return, Myar's memories were shared with Iyrades. Myar smiled from the feeling of the bonding, a sense of belonging that she'd been missing her entire life.

'I feel you are troubled. Why is it that I cannot access your past?' Iyrades asked her patiently.

“Even you cannot tap into something that has been lost from my memory.” She spoke softly.

'I cannot access your childhood. You were lost then. Separated from your family and forced to take care of yourself.'

“Lost, yes. I do not remember how or why. But now...” she paused, “Now I am found. You found me.”

The pair settled back onto the great stone perch as the bonding rituals commenced. Neither said so much as a word or sent even a single thought to their other's mind, but rather opened their minds to the tsunami of emotions that crashed over the colesium's walls, flooding the grounds with the most immense level of passion and love as each of the young drakes sought out and claimed a tamer of their own. His instincts were right; each individual he had brought here on this day was chosen by a dragon. And nearly all of the drakes completed the bond, spare for a few breeds. Merrik knew not all would find their destined tamer here on this day, and the oracle had motioned in his mind and in the minds of the hatchlings that they should not ever settle. All things happen for a reason; there is only one human on the earth, for each dragon, and for a dragon not to bond at a specific time is not a reason for sadness, but for joy in knowing that their soul mate is still waiting for the fateful day that they should become whole.

After the group had settled from their emotions to some extent, it would probably take a few weeks before the jitters of the new bond exited wholely from their fluttering hearts, Merrik wiped away a single tear from his cheek. Never had he experienced such a magnificant event, his pride over the young dragons swelled to a maximum as he knew they now were whole. He motioned to Nova within his mind and the pair took off and once again glided down to the center of the colesium to address the newly bonded pairs.

"My brothers, my sisters, I welcome you to the New Order of the Dragon Tamers. You will never return to the lives you once knew; everything has changed now that your souls have been reunited with their missing halves and your mortality has been exchanged for eternal life. You do not know it yet, but there is mana of old coursing through your veins, drawn from the magicks within the blood of your dragons. There is an endless amount of training and learning that must pass before we depart for the dark lord's tainted lands. And we have precious little time."

All the while Merrik spoke, Obsidian Nova trailed his gaze across each of the young drakes' eyes, emitting an unspoken tone. His look told them the same thing it had told them their entire lives; they were embassadors of the draconic species, the last remaining dragons. He expected excellence, he expected perfection, he expected dedication and professionalism, bravery and nobility. Each day his dark gaze reminded the young ones of the seriousness of their fate; they were to protect this land from the evil that approached, just as their ancestors did in the old days. Nova believed in the young ones, despite their tendancy to step out of the line of order and into the domain of play and games, he knew they understood the severity of the events at hand.

"There are rules. Some are simple, obvious ones, and others are severe and pain me to ever have the need to enforce them. I suppose the most important rule, is that you don't get to run from this. You all knew what you were getting in to when you agreed to join me here today. You all know the effect of the dark sickness that is pouring over our lands. You all know that without us, there is no hope for Illos. And so, you cannot run, you cannot turn your back on the cause, you cannot betray the order. For if you do, the consequences of your actions will be of the highest severity...I only hope that I should never have the need to inflict punishment for such treason. I trust your hearts and minds are in the right place and that I, nor the Oracle, were mistaken in bringing you here." He paused, bothered by the idea that the training and the reality of these events may be too much for some of the tamers to handle, and that they may try and flee with their drakes. He knew the hatchlings would never commit such an audacious crime, to betray their own kind and their homeland, but now that they were bonded, the influence of their tamers were strong. He relied on faith to continue. "On a milder note; there are basic rules as there are in any army. You will train every day, your mind and your body will be in peak condition at all times. You will respect myself, Nova, and your fellow tamers. You will consult with me before trying anything new, this includes magicks, maneouvers, mixtures, etc. You will not, under any circumstances, move forward in your training before I say. The powers you've been given, the beasts you'll soon ride, it's all dangerous if not controlled and respected."

Obsidian Nova's words continued when Merrik's shut off, in perfect timing as if one person spoke with no more than a change in the sound of their voice. Nova spoke to the minds of those before him. "Flying, will be our first task. You must learn to be comfortable atop your bonded drakes at any time, at any height, in any weather. Their wings should feel like an extension of your own limbs. Hatchlings, the weight of your tamer upon your back should feel as perfect as the weight of your own scales on your hide. Stay close in mind with each flight and feel each other's movements. For anyone who wishes to "make things more exciting" and take high pace or extreme maneouvers, there will be consequences. Need I remind you all, there at least 7 great tamers over estimated their and their dragon's abilties while in flight and have plumetted to their death. None of you have mastered retrieval dives well enough to guarantee you will save your tamers life, should they fall, so unless you wish to end your bonded lives on the first day of grace, I suggest you all take it slow and listen to Sir Merrik and myself."

Merrik spoke then, "In each of the dragons' dens, lining these walls, you'll find leather straps, to be used much like a halter and reins on a horse. You will find no saddles, for assuming that riding a dragon is anything like riding a stallion is an unwise assumption indeed. You will all use these straps for the first week or two, until I and you are confident in your abilities. Secure them under your drake's front limbs, around the neck, and then around your waist. You won't fall easily if you secure yourself on properly. Once you're set, I want you to get used to the movements of your dragons on the ground. Take time to move about the colesium, and when you're both ready, take to the skies, but stay close, no more than 400 ft in the air and not out of the clearing. Are we understood? We'll soon be departing for the Forest Garden, your new home. And the flight will be a long one. Get comfortable and get confident. Now go." The great black dragon unfurled its wings and beat down hard, sending the two up into the air as they observed the scattering order. They would be keeping a close eye on each tamer to assess their interactions with their drakes. Nova began to circle the colesium, not quite 100ft into the air and observed the events below. His great wingspan blacking out a portion of the sky as he rode the warm currents of air about the mid-day sky.

Merrik spoke to Nova's through thought. "Let's see how many thrive and how many dive shall we?" He hoped deeply that none of the new tamers met their death from the skies today. But still, Nova was prepared to dive in any direction to retrieve fallen tamers, just in case.

Yennefer had done no indiscretions, had reigned in her raging and rampant curiousity in order to truly show respect for this grandest and noblest of creatures she had before her. She knew so much of him and felt him everywhere, it was like her nerves were on fire with the heat and weight of his soul against her own. Delicately, as the other tamers had played out their own dramatic unions, she had tentatively stretched out her hand to touch. Her eyes were closed and her forehead still felt the soft press of the tip of his muzzle as the heated palm of her hand came up to cup the point of his chin, feel the boney spines embedded in his scales and familiarise herself with his presence and existence. Methuzar was content for the moment to simply breathe in her unique scent and let her mind emanate into his own. It was so gentle, so formal, so mannered and courteous and full of respect, their joining. There was no need for a show of bravery or charisma to prove their connection, a polite conversation had been enough for them to find each other's hearts. In days past they would not remember how long they had stood there, still and quiet, just touching. Methuzar found his wings and body curving around this little lady with an instinctual intent to protect, Yennefer's forehead and body leaning harder against his nose in a wish to be closer. Very abruptly the moment was broken with Merrick's voice booming down from on high and the words vibrating around the concave Colosseum walls, quaking down Yennefers bones and making her jump and her eyes snap open to flick about her surroundings wildly, as if only just remembering there was anything in the world except her and her dragon. Methuzar shook his head, seemingly similarly effected.

They both in unison looked up to the skies and immediately directed the full force of their attention towards their new Mentor and Master and Leader. Both accepted his words without challenge, Yennefer had made her decision knowing full well the consequences and with a wish to heal this ailing world of theirs. She knew that was only done with study and dedication, she was used to devoting her attention to one goal, it came easily to her now. Methuzar had known his destiny from birth and had accepted it in his typically noble and valourous manner. As for the restrictions on their powers and learning, this they accepted as well. Yennefer and Methuzar were far from children, they had no wish for thrills or excitement they were pragmatic to the full. If there were others in the world who knew better than they then those Teachers were to be listened to until they had nothing more to teach. Yennefer had glanced back to her bonded to find his glistening bronze eyes on her, warm and happy with how similarly their minds ran. She had smiled with the same feeling before taking a look about her.

The variety of people was astounding, no two people looked alike and they ranged from knights to rogueish ladies. The dragons too were of every different hue and shape that could possibly be conceived. She noted that Methuzar's size seemed greater than the rest and that his general bulk and muscle density was superior to the others. It seemed strange to her that the most physical seeming of all the dragons would not be paired with a warrior but with a Doctor. But she did not question it long, it was as right as anything could be. But still the sight of all of these variations of Dragon immediately got Yennefer thinking of their various physiological differences, how would one dragon react to a remedy compared to another? How did their circulation work at such high altitudes? What consistency did their blood take? So many questions pounded through her mind at once and she heard Methuzar rumble with amusement and interest as the concepts and diagrams and theories also piled into his own thoughts. She was embarrassed at her inconsiderate actions and pulled her thoughts back under control so that he might have space and peace. He blinked in thanks even though he hadn't truly been bothered by it, enjoying her passionate emotions. She turned to him once more at the end of Merrick and Nova's speech and breathed in a calming breath to stabilize her nervous energy. Methuzar actually did the same, although his breath was more akin to a hurricane.

I believe it is our time to fly My Lady, would you do me the honour? Methuzar dipped his head again, his left front leg extending out to her like a bridge, like a Gentleman offering a lady his arm to dance. Yennefer gave an amused smile and curtsied elegantly.

"The honour is all mine, gentle Sir." And with that she carefully picked her way up his enormous leg, finding footholds in the corded grooves of his muscles and being grateful for the coarse and gripping nature of his scales, finally making it up the the hollow between the base of his neck and the muscles of his wings. It was like a little alcove where she could curl into and remain steady and protected from the cold winds of the upper atmosphere. A small spine protruded some way in front of her which she found was an excellent handhold in case she might need to steady herself. Methuzar rolled his shoulders experimentally and gave his wings a few trial beats in order to ensure the comfort of Yennefer's position. Once they were both exceedingly happy with their situation, Methuzar began pacing about the Colosseum. It took very few steps for him to circle the area completely, his stride being so grand even though he took his time. Yennefer enjoyed feeling the pull and relax of the colossal body underneath her and tried to memorise every detail of the experience, understand all the forces at work underneath her. They took their time, neither of them had a mind to rush so quite a few Dragons had left the ground before Methuzar took them both up to his Alcove. He eased his left shoulder down as low as possible so that she could hop down onto his left foreleg and then down from there onto the ground. They both found that their hearts dropped a little when they lost tactile contact, Methuzar feeling some instinctual worry that when Yennefer was not seated atop him was when she was most in danger. She noted this in the ebb and flow of his thoughts and tried to wrap more of herself around his mind to comfort him to the obvious fact that she could not be astride him all the time.

The Leather halters were easy to find although there was so much of them and they were so large that Yennefer had quite considerable trouble carrying them and strapping them around Methuzar's neck. They didn't take any shortcuts, Yennefer dutifully checking all the buckles and lengths of leather to ensure their durability and security before again climbing up his front leg and settling herself back into her niche and carefully tightening the harness around herself. She could tell that Methuzar was not completely enthused with the idea of flight, he seemed to prefer the ground even though he had no difficulty in the air. Yennefer was somewhat intrigued by the prospect for flying but it did not grip her excitement all that much, her enthusiasm was directed elsewhere. Still, when Methuzar's powerful wing muscles rolled either side of her and the enormous wing fingers stretched out towards the sun, Yennefer did feel a shudder of anticipation run through her. She did want to see him fly and this simple emotion encouraged him as well.

With one powerful downward thrust of his wings, they were launched into the sky. The rush of air stole the breath from Yennefer and she felt like she had left most of her internal organs on the ground. Curled in her Alcove on his back she was relatively shielded from the cold air but she couldn't quite stop herself from kneeling up to peer over the crest of Methuzar's neck to see the ground drop away from them. She shivered with a mix of thrill and fear to which Methuzar gave a growl of unease and she dropped back into a more stable position. They gently circled under Nova and Merrick's watchful eyes, trying out their new wings and weights. Methuzar assured his little rider that she was barely a feather weight upon his back while she commented warmly upon his methodical and steady flight pattern and altitude, both gradually acclimatising to this new way of being. Eventually they both felt steady enough and confident enough to soar further to the limits of Merrick's commands, though never out of them, awaiting the signal for them to begin the journey towards their new home.

Irin lay in the packed dirt gazing at Uram, his silver dragon and his other half. He lay there, smiling, as he stroked her silvery nose, which felt almost like a damp sponge. He familiarized himself with her breathing pattern, every few seconds, a blast of warm air struck his face, only to be overtaken by the cool breeze moments later. Neither of them knew how long they stayed there, nor did they care. They both would have been perfectly happy staying like that for the whole day if they could.

But alas, Merrik Tetra and Obsidian Nova had different plans for them. The rider of shadows spoke again, piercing through the waking dream. "My brothers, my sisters, I welcome you to the New Order of the Dragon Tamers. You will never return to the lives you once knew; everything has changed now that your souls have been reunited with their missing halves and your mortality has been exchanged for eternal life. You do not know it yet, but there is mana of old coursing through your veins, drawn from the magicks within the blood of your dragons. There is an endless amount of training and learning that must pass before we depart for the dark lord's tainted lands. And we have precious little time." Irin bolted upright in shock at the mention of eternal life. That which alchemists searched for for ages, he had stumbled upon by pure accident! Without even asking! He had heard nothing of this when Merrik first approached him back in his home town.

Immortality... an eternal friendship with a beast of legend... and magic? What other secrets could that strange man have in store for me? Irin thought to himself.

Merrik didn't give him much time to think before he continued. "There are rules. Some are simple, obvious ones, and others are severe and pain me to ever have the need to enforce them. I suppose the most important rule, is that you don't get to run from this." Irin nodded instinctively. He was prepared for fate. There was one small thing that bothered him, and he would have to consult Merrik personally about it, but that was for another time.

Merrik and Nova then proceeded to finish their speech by explaining flight, and how they would go about learning today. When they finished, Irin stood up, and went to retrieve his weapons that he had set aside before he was whole. Upon retrieving them, he turned to his other half, and spoke to her. "Mr. Merrik said there were straps in your den, mind showing me the way?"

They both knew where the den was, actually. The exchange of memories made Irin "remember" where it was. He merely asked so as to be accompanied by Uram, and they both knew that, for their minds were now one and the same. They walked side by side through the doors the dragons emerged from. and emerged with the reins before any of the other tamers. Irin looked around the colosseum, and grinned at this realization.

"I guess we have a head start." He said to Uram, as he wrapped the reins around her waist and neck. It took him a few minutes to buckle everything and adjust it, but it wasn't as difficult as he'd feared it'd be. He then got on her left side and climbed up her front leg. The wing-shoulders made a nice dip in her back, which allowed for a good place to sit. There was a spike right behind him, which made leaning back uncomfortable, but other than that, it was a surprisingly comfortable seat. Irin thought about strapping on some kind of backboard so he could recline while flying high in the sky, but immediately dismissed the whole idea because the image in his head looked ridiculously excessive.

I would tell you to make sure to keep a good grip on the reins, but I already know from experience that you're a plenty good at that. Maybe a little too good. Uram spoke into Irin's mind. Irin responded with a light chuckle, and stretched his arms, reins still in hand.

"I'm ready." He replied.

And so they began to travel around the colosseum at a steady pace. If it weren't for the fact that he was on the back of a dragon, Irin would have found the whole thing rather boring. It wasn't exciting, though, he was a bit too eager to take to the skies already.

"This is much easier than riding a horse." Irin commented.

How so?

"Horses don't care where I wish for them to carry me."

Neither do I.

Irin laughed at Uram's reply, to which she got on her hind legs and attempted to knock him off. Irin's hands slipped from the reins and he tumbled off onto the ground, landing hard on his rump.

"Ow... That was a bit unnecessary..." Irin groaned.

I don't care. Uram replied, now back on all fours and looking at him with a wolfish grin. Rule number 1: Never laugh at a dragon.

"You're having too much fun with this... you know?"

Her thoughts took on a more serious tone, as did her face. Maybe so, but that really doesn't matter. Now hop back on. And remember this: The battlefield does not care if you're caught off guard. So here's a thought: Don't get caught off guard. I may poke fun at you, I may be snarky or arrogant towards you, I may even hurt you; but I do aim to keep you alive.

Irin stood up and nodded, and climbed back onto Uram. Her wings began to beat, which surprised Irin. Apparently she thought he was ready for flight. They took to the skies, and circled the colosseum. Irin looked down below at the small people below him, and laughed. "So this is the world from the eyes of a dragon... Just like a dream." Uram replied with a grunt of acknowledgement, and beat her wings a few times, picking up speed. Irin closed his eyes, feeling the wind rush through his hair. Freedom in its most primal of forms. He opened his eyes, to see them flying alongside Obsidian Nova. Irin began to laugh. Nothing else seemed important now. He just wanted to fly. To feel the wind blowing against him as he and Uram soared and soared. He could live the rest of his days like this—and if what Merrik said was true, he had a lot of days. He turned to Merrik, a large grin on his face. "This... This is amazing!" He shouted, perhaps a little louder than was necessary.

Do you want to know the best part? Uram said to Irin, This is nowhere near my top speed.

Myar leaned against her dragon's leg and watched the bonding ceremony as it came to an end. As expected, Merrik and Nova flew down to the center of the colleseum and gave the tamers their new direction.

"You will never return to the lives you once knew; everything has changed now that your souls have been reunited with their missing halves and your mortality has been exchanged for eternal life. You do not know it yet, but there is mana of old coursing through your veins, drawn from the magicks within the blood of your dragons."

'Never return to my old life? But I quite liked my old life.' Myar thought as she looked to her dragon.

'We have a responsibility, now, young one. We are forever bonded together, that will never change. But until we rid the poison spreading through the lands, your life will never be the same. Perhaps, in time, you can return to the way things were. After all, you are an eternal soul now.'

'Yes, I suppose I do have plenty of time for life ahead of me now,' she giggled as she scratched the scales along Iyrades' neck. What she was most interested in was the use of magick. It certainly came as a surprise to her when Merrick mentioned mana flowed through their veins. She wondered what kind of magicks they could tap into, her mind fluttered over the many possibilities. Perhaps she could learn to conceal herself more, quieting her movements or maybe even becoming invisible altogether. Or maybe it was just tapping into basic elemental magic. She'd be happy with either one.

'You already have an ability.' Iyrades commented.

Myar looked a question at her. 'What do you mean?'

'When we bonded, some of my power rubbed off on you. I gave you an ability much similar to my own.'

'Well...what are your abilities? What is mine?'

'In time.' She teased.

The two returned their attentions to Merrik as he continued talking.

"I suppose the most important rule, is that you don't get to run from this. You all knew what you were getting in to when you agreed to join me here today. You all know the effect of the dark sickness that is pouring over our lands. You all know that without us, there is no hope for Illos. And so, you cannot run, you cannot turn your back on the cause, you cannot betray the order."

All of her short life, Iyrades had been raised knowing the fate of her existence. Like all of the other dragons, excellence, perfection, and dedication were expected of them. She only wished the same from her tamer. Poor Myar hadn't been trained her entire life for this. Iyrades hoped she could prepare her tamer as best as she could.

'I'll be okay, Iyrades,' she reassured her. 'If I back out now, this will only come to affect me in the future. I am a part of this world just as everyone else is. If I can have part in saving it, then count me in.'

Iyrades smiled, nuzzling her large head against Myar's hair.

"You will train every day, your mind and your body will be in peak condition at all times. You will respect myself, Nova, and your fellow tamers. You will consult with me before trying anything new, this includes magicks, maneouvers, mixtures, etc. You will not, under any circumstances, move forward in your training before I say. The powers you've been given, the beasts you'll soon ride, it's all dangerous if not controlled and respected."

'I can deal with the training...' Myar commented. She was used to working her mind and body, anyways. 'However, I don't like following rules.'

'Myar,' Iyrades said sternly, 'These rules are put in place to protect you. You don't know what you're getting yourself into, if you attempt something too strong...or two dangerous...there could be conseq-'

'I understand my limits.' Myar interrupted her. 'I know my body, my will power, more than anyone else. If I know I will fail at something, I won't attempt it. But if I know it is something I can do, then a stupid rule won't stop me. I'm in control of what I do. Not him.'

'You are being stubborn. Ignorant, and a fool. For our sake, please just do as he says.'

Myar responded with silence as she ignored Iyrades and focused on Merrik and Nova.

Iyrades groaned and shook her head, frustrated with her tamer already.

After Merrik finished speaking, Nova's thoughts invaded both tamer and dragon, 'Flying, will be our first task. You must learn to be comfortable atop your bonded drakes at any time, at any height, in any weather. Their wings should feel like an extension of your own limbs. Hatchlings, the weight of your tamer upon your back should feel as perfect as the weight of your own scales on your hide. Stay close in mind with each flight and feel each other's movements.'

"Get comfortable and get confident. Now go," Merrik finished off.

Without a word, Myar took towards the dens, Iyrades followed closely behind.

'Give me intel on these other dragons. I need to know what I'm dealing with.'

'So demanding.' Iyrades lifted her head and examined each dragon, pushing her thoughts into Myar's mind as they walked by each one. 'That dragon there is Methuzar.' She nodded towards the brown dragon. 'As you can tell, he's larger than the rest. But his personality is even bigger. He's quite the proud creature, and tough. That's Alysia,' she motioned to the next. 'She's essentially the exact opposite of Nova, a white dragon. She's reserved and calm, and prefers to be without violence.' Next was the Silver dragon. 'That's Uram, she's the most playful of the bunch. I think you will enjoy her.'

As Iyrades continued with the dragons, Myar recalled the bonding ceremony between Uram and her tamer. It seemed Uram liked playing with the determination of her tamer, almost in a teasing manner. It would certainly act as comical relief throughout the rest of their adventures. She always enjoyed having a little fun.

'And lastly, Mandragor. The Swamp dragon. He's hardheaded. Remind you of anyone?' Iyrades hinted towards Myar.

Myar rolled her eyes and entered into Iyrades' den. She quickly located the leather straps, hoisted them over her shoulder, and returned to the center of the colleseum.

"Let's do this, shall we?" She fastened the leathers around the dragon's legs and neck, securing them in place. She climbed atop Iyrades and tightened the rest of the leathers around her waist. "Do some walking around, first."

Iyrades obeyed and slowly inched forward, taking it step by step as to not startle her tamer. She picked up the pace and started into a slow trot.

"I don't like the feeling of this," she said has her body wobbled side to side with each stride of her dragon.

Iyrades chuckled. 'Well, get over it rider. This your life now. Shall we take to the skies?'

Myar gave a mental nod and held on tight as she felt the shudder of muscles beneath her.

Iyrades crouched to the ground, her body hunched over. Her muscles tensed and with a flick of her tail, her body burst into the air.

Myar clung to Iyrades' neck, holding her body as close as she could. This feeling in the air felt so foreign to her. She felt more comfortable on the ground, with something solid beneath her feet. Up in the air, she had nothing to hold onto, no where to run or escape or hide.

'Relax, Myar. You can do this.' She stabled herself, her wings were spread wide as she gently soared through the air. She inhaled the warm air as her body moved in large, slow loops and twirled through the wind currents. She released a low, playful growl as the wind tickled at her face. Myar's shrill laughter ripped through the silence and startled Iyrades. She caught herself off balance, but then quickly regained control.

Myar's expression softened and she ran her hands along Iyrades' scaled back. "Faster," she whispered to her dragon.

Iyrades tucked her wings to the side, narrowed her eyes, and plummeted through the skies with great speed.

Myar was a very observational person at heart, she relied on her observation skills and examining her surroundings out in the world. She came to realize with being in the air, it was only an extension of what she had already been doing. Being in the air provided her with more to see, more to observe, and she began to feel more comfortable in the skies.

Iyrades slowed her speed and released her wings as she neared the ground and came to a soft landing.

"I believe I'm ready." Myar spoke with more confidence than before. "I'm ready to travel to the Forest Garden."

“...dragon tamers.”

At the utterance of those two words, the walls reverberated with a deep, almost guttural, rumble. As the vibrations travelled beneath them, a strong energy permeated the air. To the dark-haired woman, it felt as if her mind was wearing a corset, and the strings were pulled too tight. In an afterthought, Cairene noted how similar it was to the aura that radiated from the black dragon at Merrik’s beck and call. With a rustic shudder, the wooden doors to each enclosure opened, and the new sensations she felt intensified. Beauteous and terrible, the dragons took to the stage; flying and frolicking upwards and outwards, showcasing their natural and inherent capabilities. Cairene danced on the balls of her black boots and covered the peak of her high bun, twisting and twirling, trying to evade the streaks of painted fire that were always rising two steps in front of her. She huffed furiously, pushing curly locks off her now moistened brow, tromping westward until, at last, she found the edge of the colosseum.

If the dragons were laughing, she couldn’t hear them, with her concerns now focused solely on the damage wrought upon her handiwork. She quickly dusted the invisible dirt from her violet dress, checked the raised front for singe marks, and the draping rear for rips or tears. Without her proper tools, no amount of artful tucking and wrapping could save her destroyed bouffant, and that made her pout more so than the smudges on her boots and leggings. She searched frantically through pockets and purse, but could not find her hand-held mirror, and the denial of her natural instinct didn’t sit well. She needed to view herself, to be reassured by her reflection; the one variable she still had some control over. Her hands rose at either side of her head, as if trying to contain an explosion, trembling with the effort to not curse and growl. She planted her balled fists on each hip, and was about to stride back into the chaos, when a tiny glimmer caught her eye.

“My pearl!” she exclaimed, scooping the shell-shaped object into her gloved hands.

The sun was quick to scold her vanity, glaring at her through the mirror so intensely she had to quickly flip it shut and turn away. Looking into it again, she became absorbed by her appearance; planning the minor tweaks to make, humming a pleasant tune, and observing her features from different angles. They blanched when she noticed something had gone missing, it was not a mere piece of her ensemble, but a token of affection she cherished deeply. As a strange coincidence, she noticed another anomaly in her reflection, just behind the edge of her messy bun. A bejewelled orb glimmered mischievously. It was not the emerald one she sought, but another, much larger jem, the colour of rubies.

[ You think yourself beautiful, small one? ]

A melodic sound accompanied the flux of energy that pulsed within her. Cairene didn’t turn or shudder beneath it, nor did she lower her hand. She spoke calmly at the ruby in her mirror as if it were a common happenstance, “Do you disagree?”

[ Do you not understand the concept of a question? ]

“Snappy,” she mused. The creature’s tone had an elegant flair to it, like a foreign accent. “The answer to your question is ‘yes’. Do you not see the evidence before you?” She spun around to make a grand curtsy, not expecting to see an open cavern filled with blackness. Not feeling curious enough to approach, she peered into the cavern, trying to pick out shapes in the darkness. The voice returned.

[ Is it what you wear that makes you believe so? ]

At this, Cairene gave a single chuckle, feeling somewhat insulted. “Of course not, creature. What I wear compliments what I already am, and I am twice blessed by being able to make very tasteful selections.” She swept the hair from her face with a dainty flourish and smiled.

[ There isn’t a doubt in my mind that you are speaking the truth. That isn’t to say I believe you. I can feel your self-assurance burning stronger than the others. ]

“Are you indirectly calling me vain? Because if you are, you should know that there is a very distinct difference between that and confidence!” Cairene quipped. The mirror in her hand was still open, she angled it against the sunlight and shone a beam into the cell. An annoyed rumble came in return, then the ruby flared once more, and with it, its twin, all in unison with the invisible ribbons of heat curling outwards from the dark. Cairene began to quiver.

[ Yes and no. It resonates with my own, but I sense that there is more to it. We are both misunderstood; we know that the true admiration of beauty is to observe and portray its principles. Yet, quoting what you said, there is a difference: I covet it, you appreciate it. ]

“I… don’t follow.”

[ Then allow me to make it abundantly clear. ]

A sharp breath sounded from within, followed by the scraping noise of claws on the solid stone, and a gentler noise that more closely resembled a flutter than a rumble. Cairene steeled herself, recalling flashing images of the dragons seen scattering about, trying to torch her. However, what emerged from the gloom could not be compared to any of the most beauteous things she had ever seen. Her eyes widened and a hand flew to her mouth, now gaping in silent awe. It was a dragon unlike any other, graceful and sleek, wearing a thick mane of prismatic colours between her horned crown. As they exchanged stares, a rapid procession of memories and thoughts threaded through her mind’s core like a lucid dream. It made her aware of a void-like emptiness she never knew existed, while at the same time filling it with all that was missing. There was so much to take in, she felt her entire body tingle with pure joy, wonder and excitement. The mirror fell away from her open hand as the vibrations travelled up her spine. Those crimson jewels were all that kept her from drifting away, they appeared to be in search of something, traveling over her with a scrutinous gaze. Finally, their eyes found each other.

[ What do you call yourself? ]

“Cairene Maja.”

[ Cairene, I am the Amethyst Dragon of Vanity. I and my brothers and sisters have been waiting for this moment; to meet our sacred halves and become whole. They call me Asmara. You may call me... your dragon. ]

Tears flowed from her eyes so suddenly she had to touch them to see if they were real. Her breaths became ragged and she blinked heavily, knowing the rain would soon fall and sweep every scrap of composure beneath a torrent of bittersweet sobs. She took a few deep breaths, held the last one in, stood taller… and gasped and stuttered, and made a righteous fool of herself. Damning her efforts, the words kept hitching on the lump in her throat, that rose at the mere thought of what she wanted to express. She wanted to tell the dragon - her dragon - that it was the most beautiful creature she’d ever seen; that she was couldn’t properly comprehend these new feelings, but knew with absolute clarity that she would do all within her power to protect her. Such a pathetic response was unbefitting, so she gave an exasperated sigh and politely turned to the side.

“For the Oracle's sake, Cairene, at least look like you have a divine nerve in you! It isn’t like you to crumble like this...”

A weight settled on her shoulder, and without looking, she knew and felt it was Asmara. Smiling into her palm, she abandoned her pursuit of a stoic front and rested her head against the dragon’s snout, listening to her breaths, feeling her warmth and the security that came with it. It was amazing to be so close to her, their energies seemed to thrive on their contact and proximity to each other. She removed a glove and ran her bare hand over the point of Asmara’s nose, remarking at how each scale was polished to a diamond’s sheen, yet smoother than the finest silk. Her fingers brushed against a bump that felt like it shouldn’t be there. Curious, she pushed at it gently until it fell into her palm - her earring! Asmara felt the woman’s gladness, heard her reprimanding comments, and hummed in content. This human was her newest and most precious jewel now. Their union felt natural, it was easy to not only assume but agree with the other’s thoughts, views and attitudes. The woman’s capacity to find beauty in the most unlikely places, to both love and appreciate it, was intriguing. Asmara inhaled deeply, relishing in her tamer’s touch, the heady perfume in her hair, and the way she melodiously hummed without noticing or meaning to. Cairene didn’t need to explain her feelings, and Asmara didn’t need to reassure her that she understood; they were both completely in tune with each other. They were both complete.

---

[ He speaks now. Listen. ]

Asmara knew the mind of her tamer - more specifically, its habits - already. The two of them departed Cairene’s daydream together, and paid the head duo the reverence they were due. Still new to her tamer’s emotions, Asmara inwardly winced, amazed at how strong they were. The combination of large, stone walls, with the enormity of Merrik’s dragon, roused an irrevocable meekness that humbled them both. Were it not for a similar display a few weeks before, there was every chance Cairene would have found an alternate ending; not with her new companion, but inside a mass grave, rotting with the other statistics of plague reports from her former destination. She did well to remember that fact whenever arguments of logic challenged her moral decision.

Earlier, when the great black beast held their attentions by soaring skywards, Cairene remained anchored to the mirror in her hand. But now, as he entered their minds, his presence was no longer a factor to be superseded by mortal whims. He spoke directly to her soul, possessing the same magnitude as his tamer, and even without the aid of his previous aerobatics, the sheer grandiosity of Obsidian Nova benighted any shred of self-concern. To soothe her mind, Asmara tried to explain that the unnatural feeling of his presence was normal, and guided her focus to how majestic he looked. But something in Asmara’s description of him snagged - he was a Nightmare Dragon. A new fear of him implanted itself in Cairene’s mind, and despite her dragon’s efforts, it would not go away soon. A strong gust swept over them as the great beast ascended, his opal scales gleaming with each movement beneath the noon light. His power was a thing of beauty; the way he deftly carried his weight, and the weight of his rider, on the movements of his most delicate of appendages.

When Cairene looked to Asmara, whose thin, silvery wings looked questionable against her slender build, she had a brief moment of doubt. Easily picking up on this, the bright violet dragon snorted her offence, expanding the full span of her wings so that the breeze tossed Cairene’s hair, and raised her tail defiantly. She was a magnificent flier, and once her tamer felt the truth in her movements, the little human would think twice about her commentary. Cairene giggled at the extent of her dragon’s pride, planting a light kiss on her shoulder. She took the time to get familiar with Asmara’s physique, and the dragon, eager to prove her strength, moved each of her limbs to aid the application of the safety harness. It was a precaution to benefit the both of them, but Asmara busied their minds with thoughts of how Cairene needed to pay close attention to her movements, so they could be rid of the restraints as soon as possible. In truth, none were certain of how well this venture would go.

For a first attempt, it went well, there were only three causes for discomfort and none of them were Asmara’s fault. According to Cairene, the pair could do without the constant preening that saw Asmara crane her neck in a position that thrust her mane into the woman’s face. She discovered that her dragon’s flowing mane was actually composed of soft yet firm fibres, like those on the shaft of a bird’s feather. As Cairene compared the texture to that of a duck’s, she also learned that the lotus-like end of her tail is as good for balance as it is for slapping impudent tamers. She noticed the relative ease of acceleration from graceful strides to a swift and choppy gait while on-foot, but her preference became clear once the more rambunctious younglings took to the skies. From her perch, she could see Asmara’s fluid movements rippling through the twilled muscles that knit each shoulder to a wing.

Being a smaller dragon, Asmara needed to adjust the rhythm of her wing-beats to compensate for the extra girth, and with the added weight of Cairene’s excited thoughts crashing through her concentration, it took a while for them to rise above ten feet. For their first few laps, they sailed at even height, performing serpentine maneuvers and just enjoying the experience together. When it felt like they were truly of one mind and being, the pair began a slow ascent, reaching higher for the colosseum’s rim. The mental connection with Asmara further deepened Cairene’s exhilaration, removing all worries and concerns for what might happen should she bounce and bob a little too hard for either of them to contain. Sitting in her hollow between Asmara’s shoulders, framed by the crest of tall spines protruding from them, feeling the dragon’s movement, and the power in her limbs, Cairene felt, with utter surety, that there were no limits to what she and her partner could do.

Arameus stood with his arms folded across his chest, "So those memories and visions...that was you inside my head", he inquired of the White Dragon with suspicion then continued, "I'm not too certain I like that, but now that you know my deep dark secrets, to what do I get in return?, what is it that you offer in regards to this bonding?".

The White Dragon lowered her massive head level with that of the Knights and narrowed her crystal blue orbs, [And I'm not too certain, that I being a Dragon, would like bearing a human on my neck as if I were some common beast of burden, but yet here we are...And as for your deep dark secrets, the bonding as only yet to have begun, it will take weeks of training together to strengthen the bond so that we will be able to think and act as one and even then whatever thoughts you wish to guard will not become known to me, nor would I care to know such petty fetishes and lustful desires of a human....as for what I bring...in time you will be able to wield the same magic in which I was born with, in time you will be able to be one within a group of fearsome warriors, the mere sight of us alone will strike fear and awe in our enemies, you will be the envy of all other men, and the most desired among all Tavern wenches] she concluded with a smug look then waited to gauge his reply.

Arameus chuckled lightly, "You test me Dragon, from my thoughts you would already know I care not for the envy of men or to purposely seek the comfort and warmth of some Tavern wench to slake my lust", with that his expression turned to that of a disgruntled look and he continued, "As for magic, I am no Wizard and from the few I've seen that profess to be, I care not for magic, and its use only leads to the desire for more power and in the search for more power, the few I've seen have turned to the dark arts to satisfy their greed for more without regard for whom they injure in their quest".

A slight grin of approval spread across the White Dragon scale jowls, [ Spoken truly Knight, that is why our bonding must be strong and true, so if that moment were to come, I would be able to decern your thoughts and put an end to such desire] again the dragonish grin returned with an added touch of malevolence.

" Put an end to how?", came Arameus question with a perked brow.

[ By using your bones to pick your flesh from between my teeth] the White Dragon spoke in thought rather matter of factly. with that the booming voice of Lord Merrik filled the Coliseum,

"My brothers, my sisters, I welcome you to the New Order of the Dragon Tamers. You will never return to the lives you once knew; everything has changed now that your souls have been reunited with their missing halves and your mortality has been exchanged for eternal life. You do not know it yet, but there is mana of old coursing through your veins, drawn from the magicks within the blood of your dragons. There is an endless amount of training and learning that must pass before we depart for the dark lord's tainted lands. And we have precious little time."

Arameus eyes blinked several times as he listened to Lord Merrik...reunited?, missing halve?, eternal life?, mana?, Arameus had always known he was destined for greatness, or at least it was his hope in effort to honor his benefactors memory, suddenly he felt the White Dragons presences in his thoughts and an odd sensation of admiration. He turned his head to look at the White Dragon puzzled, the White Dragon, in turn feigned a scowl and beckoned him to pay attention to Lord Merrik,

"There are rules. Some are simple, obvious ones, and others are severe and pain me to ever have the need to enforce them. I suppose the most important rule, is that you don't get to run from this. You all knew what you were getting in to when you agreed to join me here today. You all know the effect of the dark sickness that is pouring over our lands. You all know that without us, there is no hope for Illos. And so, you cannot run, you cannot turn your back on the cause, you cannot betray the order. For if you do, the consequences of your actions will be of the highest severity...I only hope that I should never have the need to inflict punishment for such treason. I trust your hearts and minds are in the right place and that I, nor the Oracle, were mistaken in bringing you here. On a milder note; there are basic rules as there are in any army. You will train every day, your mind and your body will be in peak condition at all times. You will respect myself, Nova, and your fellow tamers. You will consult with me before trying anything new, this includes magicks, maneouvers, mixtures, etc. You will not, under any circumstances, move forward in your training before I say. The powers you've been given, the beasts you'll soon ride, it's all dangerous if not controlled and respected."

After a brief moment of silence, the White Dragon was the first to speak, [ What Lord Merrik has just said is not for the weak of heart, the cause in which he speaks leaves no room to be taken lightly, too many lives and life as it is now will cease to exist should we fail simply because of negligence and therefore you shall be tested by his Lordship and myself, we will see if you are a Knight in thought, or a Knight by deed, Arameus Brantly]

The White Dragons words stung him deeply and his hand went to the hilt of his sword before discretion could overrule valor, he removed his hand from the swords hilt but kept his gaze intensely focused on the White Dragons crystal blue orbs, bore himself straight and tall and proudly proclaimed,

"A Knight is sworn to valor, both in intent and deed: He avenges the wrong He defends the weak and innocent He fights with honor He never abandons a friend ally, or noble cause.

A Knight's heart knows only virtue and honor: He always keeps his word of honor, He always maintains his principles, He never betrays a confidence or comrade, He avoids deception, He respects life His blade defends the helpless, His might upholds the weak, His words speak only truth, His wrath undoes the wicked, He lives his life so that it is worthy of respect and honor.

A Knight is sworn to fair play: He will never attack an unarmed foe, He will never charge an unhorsed opponent, He will never attack from behind, He will avoid cheating, He will avoid torture.

A Knight is sworn to nobility: He exhibits self discipline, He shows respect to authority, He obeys the law, He administers justice, He administers mercy, He protects the innocent, He respects women.

A Knight is sworn to courtesy: He exhibits manners, He is polite and attentive, He is respectful of host, authority and women. A Knight is sworn to loyalty to his Gods, Sovereign, Kingdom, and the Codes of Chivalry.

This Oath is my life and I will forfeit my life before I forsake my Oath...If we are to be bonded as one then so swear thee as well..and never question my loyalties again".

Arameus watched as the White Dragon drew herself up to her full height before him, for a brief moment he half expected to be devoured until her thought entered his brain, [ It would be an honor to bond to you Sir Knight, and so swear I to your oath if it appeases your sense of honor and duty, as for me, my hatching was for not but this very cause and that which you have sworn to has been instilled upon my heart since birth, from this day forth, you may speak my given name...Alysia]

Arameus let out a sigh of relief, then slowly drew his sword and held it across his palms and bowed at the waist, " My sword, and my allegiance are yours until victory or death in our cause to be rid of this sickness that spreads across the lands". Within that instant both Dragon and Tamer were engulfed in an aura of pure whiteness that imminentated from the White Dragon and flowed over Arameus, the bonding was niw completed.

Merrik had to admit he was impressed with the level of sanity and order being displayed by these new tamers. He expected there to be more “Dear gods we get dragons! Let’s see who can fly the highest and breathe the hottest flame!” After all, to the rest of the world, dragons were creatures of myth and legend; hardly something to simply look over. He was sure the sheer intimidation of facing the great scaled beasts and the bond pulling the calm thoughts from the dragons to the tamers had key roles in the way the morning had played out.

”Perhaps they’ll make an army yet.” He thought to his companion. The black drake nodded its massive scaled head in agreement. ”However, I should save that assumption for tomorrow night, after they’ve had a day of training under their belts. I’m curious to see which will excel where and who will struggle. We have many great minds and certainly a few worthy soldiers before us. Perhaps there is hope for this land…” His thoughts trailed off as he noticed the semi-organised flights taking place around him. “Well what do you know Nova? These yearlings look pretty good with tamers on their backs. And there hasn’t been any accidents so far; apparently we collected a group of naturals.”

”Indeed we have. Though I can sense tension from a few of them; flying isn’t for everyone. Nonetheless, they’ll have to get used to it. A dragon’s first nature needs to become its rider’s second. That goes for all of them.” Obsidian Nova’s bloodred eyes scanned his surroundings. He too, was impressed by the maturity displayed and obvious dedication the new riders were showing to the cause. They seemed to realize that they weren’t here for a vacation in wonderland. Humans were so simple minded, the majority of them, so he was glad the oracle’s urges had led Merrik to the right people. As he watched each pair take to the sky and discover themselves together, he kept a close watch on the location of the sun. They needed to depart by noon at the latest for the Forest Garden to get the newcomers settled into their new home. The odd time he would notice a yearling taking up too much speed, or a pair struggling to maintain coordination between body movements and he would send a simple correction to their minds, offering small bits of advice to make the experience easier on them. When he and his rider were confident in their abilities to stay airborne and to do so in a safe manner, he pressed his thoughts into every one of their minds.

”Tamers, yearlings,” His deep, powerful voice entered into their minds, ”It is time we depart for the sacred garden of the Tetra Estate. For you drakes, we will be returning there to stay, so collect any possessions from your dens before we depart.” He was directing this thought to Asmara whom he knew brought bits of her gemstone hoard with her everywhere she went. She was fond of particular pieces and didn’t trust them to be left unguarded. Her native instincts thrived in her, as it did in all the dragons, and Nova enjoyed the characters that were brought out by it. These dragons were his family; he felt like a father to them and had taken great pride in their growth and development. And on today, their most important days, he neared a point of being overwhelmed with emotion as he witnessed their bonds. They were true dragons now.

” And to the tamers, you will be seeing your new home for the first time. Upon arrival you will receive further instruction. The flight is about 5 hours by the drake’s wing, get comfortable. We leave in 10 minutes.”

~~~

The flight seemed to drag itself on. Such a tedious trip after such excitement left Nova aching for rest and Merrik drawing restless in his own mind. Too often the man struggled to stay afloat in the rushing tides of his burdens. Too often did he lose himself in his mind, searching for answers to questions he didn’t even know he was asking. Such was the burden of his position.

As the flight neared its end, a vast clearing in the thick woods below spilled up over the horizon. A rush of comfort flowed between Nova and Merrik as they neared their beloved home. The massive black dragon led the diamond shaped formation down through the air currents to a patch of earth before a great, white oaken stable.



It’s pale wooden architecture showed no signs of aging, despite it being carved many thousands of years ago; an effect of the old magicks that flowed through these lands. As the group took hold of the earth once more with a low rumbling as each drake grounded their masses, Merrik slipped down off of Obsidian Nova’s scaly back and landed firmly on the grass beneath him. He took a moment to stretch out the muscles in his aching body while the other tamers stumbled down off their drakes one by one.

“I welcome you all to your new home. This garden was born many, many centuries ago. This stable is as old as the Order itself and was built by the my ancestor Merrikhai Tetra from the wood of an ancient grove of white oak trees. The magic in their strong limbs offered protection from any outsiders. None can hear our words here, not can spy into our activities, and none can harm us. These grounds are sacred. You will respect them will the entirety of your heart and soul and keep deep thanks in your minds for the security they offer us in a darkening world. Not even the dark lord can penetrate these ancient magicks, though do not assume he has not, and will not continue to try.”

Nova turned his head to Merrik as he sent thoughts to his mind. ”I would take my leave now, dear friend. My mind is weary from the events of the day and I would seek retirement in my quarters, but be assured I will be keeping my mind on the young dragons.” he said, turning to the stable and pressing open the great wooden doors with his talons. No mark was left on the door, despite the razor sharpness of the black claws. As the drake slipped into the vast interior of the structure Merrik returned his gaze to the group before him.

“In the stables before you, each of you will have an assigned stall and a loft above it to call your own. The stall in the far back on your left has been converted into a kitchen, the one on the left into a wash house divided into two for the males and females. At all times, you will keep your living quarters in acceptable condition. If I find so much as one plate of rotting food or a pile of laundry letting off its stench, you’ll pay for it in your training. In the center of the meadow, within the ring of white oak trees is a table. From tomorrow, and every day from then on when we are at this meadow, we will meet there for dinner. It will be a time to discuss and strategize as a group. Your training is important, make no mistake, but it is also important for you all to get accustomed to one another, for we won’t often go our separate ways. There is already a feast set out for you to enjoy, you’ve all done exceptionally well today. For today, and today only, you’ll have the evening to do as you please. Be sure to clean up after yourselves when you’re done. I am not your keeper and this is your home now; treat it as such. Your dragons are of course free to hunt whenever they choose, but for the time being, none of the tamers are to leave the meadow. Eat, wash up, explore, acquaint yourselves. The evening is yours. I will retire to my quarters now as I have work to tend to. Should any of you have questions or anything you’d like to discuss, mine is the first stall on your left. Pay respect to Obsidian Nova when you pass through his quarters. On the wall, beneath your nameplates outside your stalls, you’ll find a training schedule. Learn it well for you’ll be repeating it every day from tomorrow until this war is over. I suggest you turn in early, the morning comes quickly and the training is no walk in the woods. Now, I take my leave. Good evening.”

With that, he turned and made his way into the stable and up to his loft. It had been an exhausting day, an exhausting month. But all was falling into place now. He needed to journal about the events of the day. Record details of each tamer and of the bonds he witnessed. He understood the importance of storing information, without the journals of the tamers of old he would have been lost in this venture.

Methuzar and Yennefer had focused on gaining confidence in simple take off and landing. Once in the air Methuzar's bulk was steady as stone and he flew with great control and calmness, even though his agility and speed was lesser than the other dragons. Still Yennefer could imagine him supporting one of his smaller injured brethren in flight while Yennefer herself tried to tend to its wounds. That was something to think about later though, for now she just had to get used to the crashing landings and lurching take offs of her giant dragon, feeling as though she was about the be catapulted off his back each time. Suddenly she and Methuzar felt a polite and magnificent force breach their minds. Obsidian Nova's mind demanded respect, his thoughts alike to a grand cathedral, stretching high up above their own with intricate design and both beautiful and ominous patterns. Methuzar was comparitively used to his presence but Yennefer shivered compulsively at the sudden contact and had had to quickly gain control of her impulses to not try and flee or attack her mentor's mind. She managed it and respectfully listened to his thoughts and suggestions, how to brace herself when Methuzar was about to take off, how to relax when he landed, how Methuzar could make it easier on his dainty rider. They both tried the suggestions under Obsidian Nova's dutiful attention and after a very few tries and a few more suggestions from him they had both mastered it and endeavoured to imprint the stances into memory, both being dedicated pupils.

It was then that Obsidian Nova announced they were ready to leave, projecting to everyone to ready themselves. Yennefer quickly retrieved her large medicine pack with her various instruments and herbs along with person effects before securing it tightly to her back. She noted Methuzar gazing off toward the Amethyst dragon, watching as she claimed her gems and sighing at her beauty. He was obviously quite enamored of her appearance even though she noted he did not entirely approve of her personality. This interested her, she wondered how he felt about his other siblings and that brought her mind to the other tamers. Most of them seemed to be warriors, grand knightly individuals who could definately hold their own in battle. This gave her a brief twinge of concern. She was no warrior, what if the training was already too advanced for her? Her brow knitted for a moment before Methuzar's nose came down to meet her and blew warm air over her.

Your mind is your weapon My Lady and I have more than enough strength for the both of us. I chose you because we are two halves of a whole that is equal when together.

She still frowned. "But you have an equal, if not greater, mind than my own Sir.." To this Methuzar shook his head in a slow yet massive and definitive motion. Not so My Lady. And he was right. Upon closer inspection Yennefer saw his meaning. Although his mind was great and cunning and wise in certain ways, in others he was too blunt, too instinctual, a grand tactician in battle for everyone but himself. She slowly smiled, she was needed as well. Safe in this knowledge, she continued her climb of his foreleg and once she had settled down in the position Obsidian Nova had taught her they both took to the sky. They easily aligned themselves into the diamond formation, taking the back point of the left in order to accommodate Methuzar's enormous bulk and not get in anyone's way. The trip there had been peaceful for the both of them, Methuzar barely experiencing any fatigue at the long flight, his slow and stable flight very sustainable for him. Yennefer was encased in her dragon's warmth, being so low to his body, she barely felt the cold snap of wind when it caught her dress or her hair. It got her thinking about a dragon's homeostatic temperature and metabolism. Methuzar seemed to run hotter than most every other creature she could think of yet she knew from his mind that he had good stamina and one meal could last him a long time. What manner of digestive solutions did his system use for such good energy conservation? Her mind burst with theories and possibilities, scrapping one idea to immediately pick up another one like fitting a puzzle together. This entertained them both throughout the long flight, Methuzar offering his personal experience into her conjectures at certain points and deeply enjoying the intricate tapestry of thought that his Tamer's mind wove.

They eventually arrived at the Forest Garden, Methuzar giving Yennefer a very brief circle over its extent to satisfy her curiousity. They remembered their landing postures and Methuzar came down with an earthy and vibrating thud that shivered through the long grass around them. Yennefer dismounted lightly, like a butterfly hopping from the back of a bear, it must have looked quite an amusing sight but she could not care less. Her eyes were wide as she spun around, trying to take in the beauty and sacred power she felt thrumming all around her. The amount of knowledge stored in this place must be astronomical, it made her shiver with an academic thrill. However her star-struck state was broken when Merrick began speaking, her attention caught and held immediately. She nodded just a little to his words, yes this place was to be respected, although she generally considered the world to be respected equally, she couldn't help but be effected by the aura of generations of history that the ground held.

Obsidian Nova slid away gracefully and once Merrick had given them brief instruction he also left. So, she had the evening to herself? She thought a moment, consulted with Methuzar, before deciding that first she should settle into her quarters. Methuzar slowly paced towards the Halls, Yennefer jogging slightly to keep up with him as he lead her to his own abode. They both bowed very low to Obsidian Nova as they passed, gently murmuring 'Mentor' before quietly leaving, mindful of disturbing him. Methuzar's alcove was at the end of the hall, supposedly to make sure his great bulk didn't cause block ups when going down the Hall, although he was not yet at his full size to cause things like that. His dish seemed harder that the others having been fashioned from granite and nothing else. The centre was dipped and smoother than the outside, worn down by Methuzar's coarse scales. A few large pillows were strewn throughout it but they seemed more for support and less for softness. His stall was devoid of much comfort in general, everything being very sturdy and unbreakable and usually cemented to the ground, although Yennefer noted Methuzar's own hoard of shining metals and blue and white gems which he quickly checked over, snuffing at it gently before curling into his dish and staring at it with a delighted sigh.

Yennefer had smiled at this small display of dragonish behaviour as she strolled about the wide open stall. She had taken the parchment with the schedule of their days written on it in beautiful caligraphic writing and was studying it. Five thirty rising time? She was very glad of that, never being one for lie ins and normally having to rise early to check on patients. However she did note the large amount of physical practice that was timetabled and then looked down at her dress. It had large pockets and an over dress that was easily washed of blood and other bodily fluids but it wasn't very practical to run or fight in. She would have to fashion herself some manner of trousers and shirt, she had riding leggings, perhaps they could be adjusted? Looking at the sun she realised she had very little time so she got to work. Climbing her way up the ornate ladder she ignored the beauty and luxury of her new home and set about organising the place around her into a proper doctors office, picking out work tables and desks and draws for herbs and cool dry places for remedies. The bookshelves caught her attention for a moment, tempting her with titles like 'Anatomy of a Dragon' and 'The Nature of the Dragon Bond'. But she exercised control and went back to her organisation. She had done this many times before so it took her very little time and soon enough she had out her needle and thread and a few extra clothes she knew she wouldn't need and set at the riding jodhpurs. Within a half hour she had the basic planning and pinning done, now all she had to do was sew it all together. A small press of her dragon's mind made her aware of how hungry she was and after a while she decided she should attend this feast, she could bring her sewing with her. Methuzar seemed tired but still insisted upon accompanying her, having her sit on his nose so that he could lower her to the ground rather than attempt the ladder with only one hand and an armful of cloth and thread. Just before she had left her loft the Books had been too much of a draw and she had quickly picked out one concerning anatomy before lowering herself onto Methuzar's snout.

It took little time for them to walk to the circle of oak trees when Yennefer was carried there by Methuzar, sewing all the way with the book open in front of her on a page about Dragon Cartilage density and composition. She had to be given a little reminding nudge to realise they had arrived. The trip down Methuzar's leg was a little precarious when carrying sewing and a large tome but she was very careful and kept her balance to hop down relatively elegantly from his paw to the ground. Upon walking into the circle of Tamers around the ornately craved stone table she bowed a little and smiled politely to everyone around her. After taking a quick look about her she found a chair and set herself down with the book open on her lap along with the sewing as Methuzar curled himself up behind her on the soft grass.

Fear, no anxiety had gripped Mina as she stood in the center of the arena with the other people, potential dragon tamers like herself. She could already feel the heat, the excitement of the following event, the dust that stuck to her moist skin as sweat pearled down her body.
She had a blade at the ready, though she doubted the tiny weapon would have much effect on the massive scaled beasts they were all about to face. Scaled beasts of legend, fire-breathing monsters that were said to devour humans in a single bite of their massive jaws, tear skin and bones apart with a single lash of their claws or tail. They were simply terrifying creatures, but somehow they intrigued Mina as well. First of all they were massive, legendary beasts that could fly and breathe fire as if it was an everyday thing. Mina had heard of them, but never saw one in her life, which was probably why this was so exciting for her.
Second of all, she couldn't understand how something so massive, so perfect in build and so wise, could be considered incomplete. From what she understood, these dragons would, or could, become their other half, their other side of a coin, their reflection in the mirror so to speak. She didn't quite get that.
Mina didn't get any more time to think about how her encounter with the beasts would be, as the voice of Merrik rang down to them.

"The dragon are being released. Be brave, be strong. Be wise. For today, you become dragon tamers."

Mina managed to take a deep breath before the sound of flapping wings, screeches and the roaring sound of flames surrounded them. Mina was dazed by the colors that suddenly filled the air, the dust and sand that was spewed up against her body and blinding her. She was forced to step back a bit, losing sight of the other people she had been standing with. Fire roared around her and pushed her back, restricting her breathing.
At first her vision was blurred, filled with every color of the rainbow, colors she didn't even knew existed were created right in front of her eyes and she was stepping back with every new splash of color that blinded her. Then suddenly her vision was filled with a single color, a bright pink that faded into ruby, rose, salmon and numerous other shades of pink and purple-ish colors. This fire was different than the ones that had surrounded her earlier, it was aimed more directly at her, pushing her back towards a wall.
The roaring pink wave pushed her away from the other people, though she had lost sight of them long ago. Or was it just now? She had lost all sense of time since she entered this tornado of flames and colors.

As she tried to pinpoint her own position and the position of the dragon that apparently wanted her to go there, she was knocked back by a gust of wind and thrown into the dust on the ground behind her. She grunted and scrambled on her feet as a dragon appeared in front of her, wings opened wide and towering over her.
The dragon was relatively small compared to the other dragons she had managed to spot, certainly not as large as Merrik's massive black dragon, but it's size wasn't what made Mina gasp lightly in wonder and admiration; it was it's coloring.

Pink had never been Mina's favorite color. It was by far her least favorite, to be honest. This dragon looked so stunning, so marvelous that she almost changed her entire opinion on the color.
The dragon was a light color of pink, a color she couldn't exactly pinpoint. It seemed to be some kind of rose pink mixed with the color of cherry blossom and cotton candy. It's wings were a china pink, mixed with dark pink and had shades of carmine running through them. The two arched horns on it's head were a carnation pink color, placed perfectly on it's graceful, but powerful looking head. The drake was a stunning image of grace and peace, beauty incarnated in Mina's eyes, though she could almost see the fury hiding behind it's gentle appearance. As she took in the beasts features time seemed to stop, but the moment had to end and Mina was caught by a string of fear when the drake moved towards her. She was given an opportunity to observe it a bit better, watch it's powerful muscles roll under the thick layer of scales and skin that protected it's vulnerable organs. The drake paused and seemed to observe her, before a voice sounded in her head. She had expected something like this, but not this kind of voice. It was calm and peaceful, it was as if she was spoken to by royalty with a grace she had never encountered before.

"Do you intend on attacking me with that toothpick you hold in your hands..?"

A clear and simple question in her head. It was surprising to her how easily she heard it, though the initial feeling was a bit weird. She shrugged it off and stood up a bit straighter, lowering the blade, but keeping it tightly in her hands.
'No, but I intend to defend myself with it.' she stated calmly, but firmly. She felt like a madman trying to oppose a god, that was how the difference between her and the dragon felt, but she controlled her nerves and stood firmly in front of him.
"I can sense you, human woman. You have killed before, haven't you?" the dragon asked. Mina was surprised he could sense that from her, but she figured it was some kind of ability this marvelous creature had.
'I have killed before. Only those that deserve it though. Why would I want to kill something as incredible as you? Or any of your kind, for that matter.' she stated.
A chuckle sounded in her head as the dragon seemed to show her a toothy smile satisfied. 'Incredible, huh? You sure know how to keep a dragon happy."
Mina grumbled a bit, though she knew he didn't mean it in the way she heard it. She wasn't some kind of suck-up, trying to please somebody just because he or she was stronger than her. 'I'm not trying to keep you happy!' she exclaimed. 'I was just stating my opinion on the matter, that's all.' she said, crossing her arms. She felt like an idiot, bickering with a dragon like this, but it was nice talking to him knowing he wouldn't eat her.
The dragon chuckled again, pleased with her answer. "Ah, it is like that then." he said. He lowered his head to meet her on eye-level and she gazed into his deep blue eyes, absolutely mesmerized. She felt like she was drowning into the deep blue color of his eyes and reached out to touch his skin, to simply brush over the smoothness of his scales, to feel his muscles move under his skin and hear his heartbeat. The second before she would reach his skin he seemed to smile and a wave of images suddenly entered her mind, embedded themselves into her brain. She saw him, his brothers and sisters, the black dragon they saw as a father. At the same time she felt like a piece of her heart, no a piece of her soul was filled up. Like some empty void was suddenly filled up by the mere presence of the dragon in front of her. Her memories filled him as well, she could feel it, feel his emotions about her tragic past even though she had buried that part of herself long ago. It felt as if some long lost chain had finally reconnected to her soul, making her whole again, even though she never knew she wasn't complete. Among the images, the memories and feelings of the dragon she could now call her partner was a single name.
She smiled faintly as she regained her senses and looked at him again. 'So that is what I may call you...' she placed her hand on the smooth, warm scales of her partner. 'Ajura.'

***

It seemed as if an eternity had passed while Mina stood there with her newly found half, the missing piece of her soul, though only a few minutes had passed. Probably....
She was forced to tear her gaze off her amazing new partner, the action almost paining her, when she heard the sound of Merrik's voice above them again.

"My brothers, my sisters, I welcome you to the New Order of the Dragon Tamers. You will never return to the lives you once knew; everything has changed now that your souls have been reunited with their missing halves and your mortality has been exchanged for eternal life. You do not know it yet, but there is mana of old coursing through your veins, drawn from the magicks within the blood of your dragons. There is an endless amount of training and learning that must pass before we depart for the dark lord's tainted lands. And we have precious little time."

The notion about never returning to her old life didn't bother Mina, though it seemed to affect some of the other tamers she had spotted now that the dust and flames had settled. What did surprise her was the mentioning of eternal life and the notion of mana coursing through their veins. She looked at Ajura questionably, but he simply gave her a look saying he would explain everything better later. She redirected her interest towards Merrik again when he continued speaking.

"There are rules. Some are simple, obvious ones, and others are severe and pain me to ever have the need to enforce them. I suppose the most important rule, is that you don't get to run from this. You all knew what you were getting in to when you agreed to join me here today. You all know the effect of the dark sickness that is pouring over our lands. You all know that without us, there is no hope for Illos. And so, you cannot run, you cannot turn your back on the cause, you cannot betray the order. For if you do, the consequences of your actions will be of the highest severity...I only hope that I should never have the need to inflict punishment for such treason. I trust your hearts and minds are in the right place and that I, nor the Oracle, were mistaken in bringing you here."
A short pause.
"On a milder note; there are basic rules as there are in any army. You will train every day, your mind and your body will be in peak condition at all times. You will respect myself, Nova, and your fellow tamers. You will consult with me before trying anything new, this includes magicks, maneuvers, mixtures, etc. You will not, under any circumstances, move forward in your training before I say. The powers you've been given, the beasts you'll soon ride, it's all dangerous if not controlled and respected."


Merrik's words made sense, for as far Mina could really understand them. Her mind was still a bit fuzzy from her bonding with Ajura, her brain still having to organize and sort the massive amount of information and memories she had been given. When Nova's voice entered her voice it felt a bit like it didn't belong there, now that she had bonded with Ajura, but she almost wanted to squeal in joy when she heard what he spoke about.

"Flying, will be our first task. You must learn to be comfortable atop your bonded drakes at any time, at any height, in any weather. Their wings should feel like an extension of your own limbs. Hatchlings, the weight of your tamer upon your back should feel as perfect as the weight of your own scales on your hide. Stay close in mind with each flight and feel each other's movements. For anyone who wishes to "make things more exciting" and take high pace or extreme maneuvers, there will be consequences. Need I remind you all, there at least 7 great tamers over estimated their and their dragon's abilities while in flight and have plummeted to their death. None of you have mastered retrieval dives well enough to guarantee you will save your tamers life, should they fall, so unless you wish to end your bonded lives on the first day of grace, I suggest you all take it slow and listen to Sir Merrik and myself."

Flight was something Mina had dreamed about almost her entire life. When she was younger and more depressed about the loss of her clan she had thought of ending it all, simply taking her own life and flying off forever. She had spend hours on a cliff near her new home, simply gazing at the sea and the ground below it in an attempt to understand how it would feel. This was a whole lot better than what she wanted to do when she was younger though.

"In each of the dragons' dens, lining these walls, you'll find leather straps, to be used much like a halter and reins on a horse. You will find no saddles, for assuming that riding a dragon is anything like riding a stallion is an unwise assumption indeed. You will all use these straps for the first week or two, until I and you are confident in your abilities. Secure them under your drake's front limbs, around the neck, and then around your waist. You won't fall easily if you secure yourself on properly. Once you're set, I want you to get used to the movements of your dragons on the ground. Take time to move about the coliseum, and when you're both ready, take to the skies, but stay close, no more than 400 ft in the air and not out of the clearing. Are we understood? We'll soon be departing for the Forest Garden, your new home. And the flight will be a long one. Get comfortable and get confident. Now go."

Mina almost sprinted towards the dens, followed by Ajura, who had an excited and amused smirk on his scaled lips at the reaction of his partner, the amazement when she immediately knew where the dens were. It took a while for her to strap the leather reins and halter on Ajura, but eventually she succeeded. She was hesitant to get onto her partner's back, but Ajura's gesture of lowering his neck for her allowed her to get over the weird feeling of getting on his back. She found a comfortable spot for her to sit on, at the base of his neck between what seemed to be the bases of his wings. It formed a nice little pit for her to sit in and she could even lean back a little bit.
Once she strapped herself in Ajura started moving around, walking around the arena in a slow pace to allow her to get used to it. Merrik had been right, this was nothing like riding a horse.
Eventually Mina got the hang of it and she was confident enough to let Ajura lift off the ground. As she saw the ground get further and further away she felt her fear disappear with it. This was everything, no even more than she ever anticipated of flying. She felt immensely free, at peace. She focused entirely on the breeze against her skin and the feeling of Ajura's heartbeat below her hands. At one point she almost fell off her partner's smooth scales, but she managed to regain herself before slipping off.
When they landed on the ground again Mina couldn't describe the intense feeling of happiness that coursed through her veins with any other word than perfection.

(Okay, enough writing for now, I'm so tired *.* Will post the skip to the Garden in my next post)

You are a very lucky man, Irin. For there is nothing greater than to be chosen by a dragon. Uram spoke into Irin's mind.

"You couldn't convince me otherwise, friend." Irin replied.

Oh, I could if I wanted to. The silver dragon clicked her teeth together audibly a couple times.

Irin almost chuckled, but decided it was better if he didn't.

Tamers, yearlings, The deep voice startled Irin. It is time we depart for the sacred garden of the Tetra Estate. For you drakes, we will be returning there to stay, so collect any possessions from your dens before we depart. And to the tamers, you will be seeing your new home for the first time. Upon arrival you will receive further instruction. The flight is about 5 hours by the drake’s wing, get comfortable. We leave in 10 minutes.

I have nothing to take with me, the two things I cherish most will always follow me: You, and the skies.

Irin already knew she felt this way, but to "hear" it from her warmed him. "Thank you." He replied.

They soared above the colosseum as they waited for everyone to prepare for the flight. Uram insisted she could stay in the air for a whole day if she needed to, and Irin had no interest in landing. When they departed, they took on a diamond shape, Irin and Uram behind and to the left of Obsidian Nova. This got Irin wondering. "Why are diamonds and 'V's such abundant formations in anything that flies?" He asked Uram.

It is the most efficient way to fly Uram replied, We conserve our energy by riding on the wind generated by the wingbeats of the dragon in front of us. This is another reason why Master Nova is taking the lead. At least for now, his wings are the strongest, but I aim to take that title away. It is the duty of an atmosphere dragon to rule the skies, and that is what I am.

"So, the magic that courses through my veins now is..."

Wind magic, yes. The finest of the magicks, mind you, for there is no magic more versatile. It's not as efficient as, say, fire magic, but you can do so little with fire magic. You can use the wind to knock your enemies off their feet, or to blow from behind and enhance your mobility. You can lift anything off the ground with a strong enough cyclone, and throw it wherever you please. Air has no size or shape, and as such, can be molded as you see fit. You can reduce its pressure on an object to make the object substantially lighter, or do the opposite and make it immovable. Wind can smash through walls, create avalanches on mountainsides, douse the land with rain, or clear the skies to brighten the mood. There are very few things that wind magic can't do. I'm sure you'll find your own uses for it soon enough.

"I'm sure I will." Irin replied.

Wind magic, however, requires unusual approaches in order to be executed properly. If I'm not mistaken, there'll be plenty of books on it in the room you'll be sleeping in.

"Oh... no." Irin muttered to himself.

Uram already knew the problem, and replied accordingly, You're not very good at reading, are you? I'd advise talking to Master Merrik and seeing if he can help you with that. Obviously I can't help you, as I don't need to learn such trifling matters. I just care about the hunt, the flight, the fire, and the sleep.

"Times are changing, I suspect you'll have a lot more on your agenda soon enough."

Obviously

They spent the next couple of hours in relative silence, Irin familiarizing himself with the rhythm of the wingbeats, and viewing the landscape below, with the mutterings of the other riders as mere background. Though the flight lasted several hours, Irin did not find himself getting bored of viewing the landscape below. While he wasn't getting bored, though, he was getting a tad restless. His mind drifted back to the idea of something to lean back on, as the spike immediately behind him made the ride not too comfortable.

"Staying seated like this for extended periods of time is not something I enjoy too much." He said just loud enough that only Uram could hear it clearly.

I understand completely, Uram replied, And I wish I could help with that. The only thing I can do is tell you that you'll get used to it eventually.

Irin nodded, the thought not even occurring to him that Uram couldn't see him nod. "I should hope so."

They returned to silence for only a few minutes before Uram spoke to Irin again. We're landing

"Ugh... finally." Irin replied, rolling his shoulders.

The landing was rather soft, which surprised Irin, who was prepared to be jolted forward. He hopped off, and twisted his back from side to side, as it crackled and loosened itself up. Irin let out a sigh as that happened, and proceeded to stretch his arms and legs. He barely had enough time to do much stretching at all before Merrik spoke to them.

“I welcome you all to your new home. This garden was born many, many centuries ago. This stable is as old as the Order itself and was built by the my ancestor Merrikhai Tetra from the wood of an ancient grove of white oak trees. The magic in their strong limbs offered protection from any outsiders. None can hear our words here, not can spy into our activities, and none can harm us. These grounds are sacred. You will respect them will the entirety of your heart and soul and keep deep thanks in your minds for the security they offer us in a darkening world. Not even the dark lord can penetrate these ancient magicks, though do not assume he has not, and will not continue to try.” The black dragon communicated with him for a moment, and then made his way into what looked to be very large stables. Merrik then continued. “In the stables before you, each of you will have an assigned stall and a loft above it to call your own. The stall in the far back on your left has been converted into a kitchen, the one on the left into a wash house divided into two for the males and females. At all times, you will keep your living quarters in acceptable condition. If I find so much as one plate of rotting food or a pile of laundry letting off its stench, you’ll pay for it in your training. In the center of the meadow, within the ring of white oak trees is a table. From tomorrow, and every day from then on when we are at this meadow, we will meet there for dinner. It will be a time to discuss and strategize as a group. Your training is important, make no mistake, but it is also important for you all to get accustomed to one another, for we won’t often go our separate ways. There is already a feast set out for you to enjoy, you’ve all done exceptionally well today. For today, and today only, you’ll have the evening to do as you please. Be sure to clean up after yourselves when you’re done. I am not your keeper and this is your home now; treat it as such. Your dragons are of course free to hunt whenever they choose, but for the time being, none of the tamers are to leave the meadow. Eat, wash up, explore, acquaint yourselves. The evening is yours. I will retire to my quarters now as I have work to tend to. Should any of you have questions or anything you’d like to discuss, mine is the first stall on your left. Pay respect to Obsidian Nova when you pass through his quarters. On the wall, beneath your nameplates outside your stalls, you’ll find a training schedule. Learn it well for you’ll be repeating it every day from tomorrow until this war is over. I suggest you turn in early, the morning comes quickly and the training is no walk in the woods. Now, I take my leave. Good evening.” Merrik then followed Obsidian Nova into the stables, vanishing behind black doors.

The silver dragon passed by Irin, stopping to turn to him. I am hungry, I shall go hunt now, try to get yourself acquainted with everyone while I'm gone. This was followed by several wingbeats as she took off into the sky and vanished behind a row of trees.

As soon as she left, Irin began to feel like a piece of him was missing. He felt utterly depressed, and began to worry. Was this a side effect of the bond? Would he have to live with it for an eternity? Trying to keep himself calm, he went and sat at the table of food, but his appetite was completely gone. He grabbed a slice of bread and ate it little by little as he kept his eyes on the horizon, waiting for his other half to return.

It was roughly three hours passing before Arameus was comfortable enough to bring himself to look about, he'd spent the first hour keeping what little he had in his stomach from coming back up, then the second hour in a near heated discussion about the riding of horses, warhorses and Dragons,

"Aye I did hear Lord Merrik state that riding horses is nothing like riding a Dragon, I'm merely saying that a Knights warhorse is not merely a horse... in order to balance both shield and lance, a Knight must lead the warhorse in the direction its rider wants him to go by applying pressure of knee and spur, for instance, should I want my horse to turn right, I would press in with my right knee, with my right toes in behind his front leg, I should i want him to wheel sharply right, I would press right knee in with right heel in and a rake of the spur, so although riding a horse may not be the same, I am certain that balance would be comparable".

[ A word of warning Knight, rid yourself of those spurs ] was Alysias solemn reply before continuing after a moments pause, [ On your horse there is only to the left and two the right, forward and back to be concerned with, here in the air you have left, right, forward, back, but also up and down and varying angles of attack, for instance with a dip of my wing, we would instantly drop to the left, a move I shall not do now simply for the fact that I do not care to have the contents of your stomach on the back of my neck. Up here both Dragon and Rider must take into account the air currents, up drafts, down drafts, ground swells, its not merely a matter of balance, but both our thoughts and minds thinking as one without hesitations, falling a few feet to the ground off the back of your precious warhorse is nothing compared to falling several hundred feet to the ground from off the back of my neck... you would do well to forget what you have been taught and take heed of Lord Merrik's training... there is no longer time to seek a replacement for you if you don't ], after her final words both remained silent.

Arameus had never given a moments thought to the day dreaming of what it was like to fly for the simple reason he wasn't able to fly. As a young lad he'd look up to the sky and see a hawk soaring on the wind high above, but only then all he would do is wonder what the view of the world was like from up that high, just seconds before being thumped on the top of his head and sternly reminded to keep his thoughts on his training by his mentor. Riding on the back of Alysias neck was becoming quite comfortable if not too much so and he found himself nearly dozing a time or two much to his chagrin. He steeled his nerves and forced himself to look around, the view was breathtaking, the fields of farm crops below from this height, looked almost like a patchwork of quilts, in the distance he could see a river winding back and forth across the green landscape and what struck him the most was how serene everything seemed to be. He panicked slightly as Alysia suddenly decended and landed alongside the other Dragons and riders in front of Lord Merrik.

I welcome you all to your new home. This garden was born many, many centuries ago. This stable is as old as the Order itself and was built by the my ancestor Merrikhai Tetra from the wood of an ancient grove of white oak trees. The magic in their strong limbs offered protection from any outsiders. None can hear our words here, not can spy into our activities, and none can harm us. These grounds are sacred. You will respect them will the entirety of your heart and soul and keep deep thanks in your minds for the security they offer us in a darkening world. Not even the dark lord can penetrate these ancient magicks, though do not assume he has not, and will not continue to try".

"In the stables before you, each of you will have an assigned stall and a loft above it to call your own. The stall in the far back on your left has been converted into a kitchen, the one on the left into a wash house divided into two for the males and females. At all times, you will keep your living quarters in acceptable condition. If I find so much as one plate of rotting food or a pile of laundry letting off its stench, you’ll pay for it in your training. In the center of the meadow, within the ring of white oak trees is a table. From tomorrow, and every day from then on when we are at this meadow, we will meet there for dinner. It will be a time to discuss and strategize as a group. Your training is important, make no mistake, but it is also important for you all to get accustomed to one another, for we won’t often go our separate ways. There is already a feast set out for you to enjoy, you’ve all done exceptionally well today. For today, and today only, you’ll have the evening to do as you please. Be sure to clean up after yourselves when you’re done. I am not your keeper and this is your home now; treat it as such. Your dragons are of course free to hunt whenever they choose, but for the time being, none of the tamers are to leave the meadow. Eat, wash up, explore, acquaint yourselves. The evening is yours. I will retire to my quarters now as I have work to tend to. Should any of you have questions or anything you’d like to discuss, mine is the first stall on your left. Pay respect to Obsidian Nova when you pass through his quarters. On the wall, beneath your nameplates outside your stalls, you’ll find a training schedule. Learn it well for you’ll be repeating it every day from tomorrow until this war is over. I suggest you turn in early, the morning comes quickly and the training is no walk in the woods. Now, I take my leave. Good evening".

the thought of food, even after having a quizzy stomach from the flight seemed appealing and a good opportunity to introduce and meet the other Tamers. After removing the riding strap and seeing as to where their assigned stall/loft was, Alysia's took her leave to hunt and he made his way over to the ring of white oaks and examined the table, an array of meats, breads, cheeses and fruits lay spread out across the table. Not wanting to be rude or display poor manners, he took up a goblet
of wine and had a sip or two to settle his stomach and waited for the Lady riders to take a place at the table before partaking of the feast provided,he took a short walk and admired the layout, the surroundings were immaculate and could easily be mistaken for the royal gardens at the Kings palace, he was admiring a particular section of brilliantly colored flowers when suddenly without warning he felt instantly ill.

The taste of hot blood and warm raw meat filled his mouth and senses, doubling him over and causing him to heave, after a moment or two, he wiped his mouth and straightened up and growled, "Being as one in flight I can handle...being as one when you eat I can do without, thank you very much... dont think I'll be able to eat for a week after that", he hastily said before the need to heave took hold of him again. In the back of his mind came a distant sounding, [ my apologies ], once he felt her thoughts blocked he turned and went back to the table, curious as to how far apart a Dragon and Tamer could be before not being able to feel them, something which would be handy to know he surmised as he neared the circle of white Oaks.

Although most of her attention was on Azadeth, It was the later that motioned to her tamer of what was going on around her and what a sight it was to see. Other dragons where finding there new tamers completing each others other half's, It was quite beautiful, Not that any of it made sense to Ryhana as after all she was until now a guards woman of Solona. It was the point of no return for them all now not that Ryhana even wanted to leave, How could one turn their back on quite possibly the biggest duty and burden anyone could ever have? The fate of the known world in their hands.

Soon enough Merricks voice, The man who caught Ryhana's eye and the one responsible for bringing them altogether to be the next generation of Dragon riders. He spoke of the rules, none of which Ryhana was worried about, She knew full well what she got herself into and following rules was something she was used to in her life but it did not stop her from thinking about her father and of course her family who she now had to leave behind, her home town and her family will always be in her heart. Her mind was brought back however when the mention of flying was to be the first task to learn and use. Of course that would be like the 101 of things to learn, But a crash course in quick learning to fly before heading to this new home of theirs was a little bit daunting even if they could pull it off there was no way in anyone being able to perfect it on the first day.

Azadeth reassured Ryhana that all would be well despite the tamers reluctance to the idea of flying at first, she was used to being firmly on the ground but she trusted her new dragon with her life and believed with her help the guards woman now turned dragon rider would overcome this first obstacle. The pair started of with a trot around the stadium once Ryhana was set up on the beast, Azadeth found it highly amusing seeing her tamer with several attempts to get on but Nova's guidance she figured it out well enough to climb aboard.

Once settled enough Azadeth looked back at Ryhana who nodded signalling she was ready to fly for the first time and soon enough the green dragon slowly lifted of the ground climbing up but not to high and hovered for a few moment letting Ryhana adjust and acquaint herself with the feeling. Soon it was followed with some flying, Ryhana slipped a little few times but all was good and getting better as the pair got used to each other and continued this for a little longer before landing once more. 'You did well young rider, Although you had me worried a few times' Azadeth said into Ryhana's mind. " I trust you to keep me safe Azadeth, We both did well" She replied as both smiled at each other.

Soon Obsidian Nova spoke into there minds, there was a long flight ahead and everyone had together their things before going off to their new permanent home. but eternal life, bonding with a dragon and having a new place to call home. Ryhana had collected up and sheathed her weapons and picked up her small bag with some personal effects before with more success this time climbed back onto Azadeth and awaited for to be ready as soon enough flew of in a diamond formation in what had to be the longest five hours ever to endure despite the first few hours being in awe and wonder.

Eventually the gap in the forests opened up to reveal an open area of land, the place looked lavish and beautiful throughout including the structures that were there for them and despite being old showed no signs of ageing, Azadeth did a little circle around for Ryhana to get an overview of their new home before following the others in for landing making the good old thud despite the careful and soft landing in the oval like meadow. Merrick spoke up once more as Obsidian Nova took his leave, speaking of the night belonging to them for there was a lot of hard work and training ahead of them and Ryhana for one thought it be best to take advantage of the opportunity before her and hope to get a little more acquainted with her fellow tamer's, Once Merrick retired to his room Ryhana took note of the people around her and that of the table layout before them for this feast as it was called, The young woman preferred to do one thing at least first and smiled at the other riders. " Please excuse me, I need to set my belongings in my room. I shall rejoin you all shortly" Ryhana smiled with a polite nod before leaving with Azadeth into the stalls.

They both respectfully nodded to Nova who was resting and felt best to leave him be. Ryhana's room was the second one to the right upon entry almost opposite Merricks, Azadeth retired into her stall while Ryhana made her way up in to her loft. the place was amazing with so much to look at and to care for plus the bed was massive, She could easily get lost in there and have an adventure in there alone, She was used to a small room with a single bed and none of the amazing feature and perks this place brought, Not that she was one to complain. Ryhana set down her bag before taking of the belt holding her short swords and hung them on one of the bed posts before unpacking her belongings and putting them in the appropriate places including a picture of her mother and brother together place a top coffee table while one of her father was placed on her bedside unit, She took a few moments to look at the picture thinking of her father.

After a few moment to herself in which Azadeth let her have, Ryhana gathered her thoughts and left down into the stall to where her dragon was resting, She stroked her green scaly skin softly and smiled, Azadeth returned the smile 'You should spend some time with the others, I shall be fine here and rest, remember I am always nearby if you need me' She spoke into her mind, It was still going to take time getting used to that. " Rest well my friend, I shall return soon to rest myself." Ryhana smiled before reading up on the training schedule, it was going to be a long hard road, Soon after she rejoined to her fellow Tamers at the table and quietly sat down.