For the Love of a Dragon Heart 2

by Draco'sDragonheartMaiden

It's been years since she had lost her dragon during the rebellion and she longed to have him back in her arms. One day she meets an old woman who can grant her heart's one wish. What will happen when her dream becomes reality?

This story begins with a young woman on a battlefield helping an army of rebels against a tyrant of a King. This army was being led by a Knight called Bowen, a once proud dragonslayer now..a dragon protector and leader of the rebellion. Not only were they being led by this Knight but also by an unlikely companion, a dragon...and not just any dragon but the last dragon. He was their symbol of power and freedom, he gave them the courage to fight back and to fight for what was right and just. His name was Draco, it had been given to him by the very Knight that had once tried to kill him. They had bonded after Draco had come up injured and Bowen had tended to his wounds. It was on that same night that Bowen had given Draco his name. On the battlefield the young woman brandished a sword and was fending off a couple of the King's men. She is called Skygazer and she had also befriended Draco but on a much deeper level. She had come across him some time before Bowen had, one day when she was out looking for herbs she happened upon a cave and found it odd that there was always smoke or steam coming from it even though no one lived in it, or so she thought. She entered the cave one evening when she had become lost in a storm and needed shelter. She had lost her horse long ago and resorted to travelling on foot so when she had to take shelter in the cave she was completely unaware that Draco lived inside. On the night she had taken shelter in the cave, she fell asleep wrapped in only her cloak that she had with her but when she awoke in the morning she found a warm fire burning and a fat rabbit cooking over it. Upon seeing this she became very alarmed she looked around the cave and when she did, she found Draco hiding in the back of it. He had been watching over her through the night she had taken shelter there. To Draco's surprise, she wasn't afraid of him...in fact she was quite fasinated by him and after some time she became very taken with him. She dare not openly tell Draco her feelings because she was a human and he was a dragon, it would never work between them. These thoughts were on her mind as she faught because she wanted a future with him even though her lifespand was much shorter than his. She couldn't think about that now she had to keep her mind on the fight. Above her Brother Gilbert was brandishing a bow and a quiver full of arrows as he was a very good shot. It was then that the King himself, a man called Einon rode up on his horse and was below Brother Gilbert. Bowen took notice, "Brother Gilbert! It's Einon stop him!" he called. Brother Gilbert took aim and made his arrow hit the mark, right in the shoulder. Upon hitting him in the shoulder Skygazer's eyes went to the direction where she knew Draco was and saw him react to the shot too, "Draco! NO!" Skygazer cried. Draco fell out of the sky and landed in the castle courtyard, she then turned to Bowen, "I'm going..." she called. Bowen merely nodded as she hopped onto the horse she had been given and urged her to go as fast as her hooves could take her.

When she reached the castle courtyard she saw that the dragonslayers had already chained Draco to the ground. Upon seeing him like that tears stung her eyes and fear raced through her as she hopped from her mare's back. She ran over and threw herself against Draco's shoulder, "NOOO!" she yelled as she panted for every breath she took. Her actions left the dragonslayers quite dumbfounded and unsure as to what to do. "I won't let you hurt him!" Skygazer yelled. Upon hearing her voice Draco spoke, "Sky get out of here!" "No I won't leave you..." she then moved in front of him so he could see her clearly. She placed her hands on the side of his face, "I can't leave you my love and I won't." His dragon face softened slightly as she moved closer to him to lay her cheek on his muzzle and he nuzzled her as best as he was able to.

Einon looked on as he rode into the castle courtyard but sneered at the interaction, "ha this is rich...she's in love with the beast." Skygazer looked up as Einon came closer and upon seeing this Draco roared aggressively and she moved to get beside him staying near his neck for protection. She made sure to stay as close to her dragon as she could and away from Einon. He and his Knights jumped back slightly before he spoke, "cease her!" Skygazer felt fear race through her as she clung to Draco's neck as best she could, "NO!" But it was no use as Brock took hold of her wrist and jerked her away from Draco, "let go of me!" she demanded. Draco was furious, "let her go Einon!" he demanded angrily. "Draco!" she cried as she faught against Brock's grip. "SKY!" Draco shouted. "DRACO!" tears streamed down her face. Somehow Draco managed to get one of his claw-like hands free enough to strike at Einon then Brock, being mindful of Skygazer. Taking advantage of that Skygazer elbowed Brock in the stomach which made him let go of her wrist. She made a mad dash towards Draco only to be grabbed by Einon, "ah let go of me you monster!" she snapped before looking at her beloved dragon, "Draco! Help me!" she cried. Draco growled at the man, "let her go Einon!" Einon jerked her backwards making her wrist hurt, "shout all you like for him...he can't help you," he sneered. She looked up into the cold eyes of the King before she used her free hand to try and hit him in the jaw but missed and only managed to hit him in the nose which caused it to bleed. He looked at her then drew his hand back and knocked her unconscious making Draco even more furious, before taking Skygazer away.

It was sometime later when Skygazer awoke to find one of Bowen's men freeing her from the chains that Einon had bound her to the wall with. They then led her outside to the courtyard just in time to see Bowen throw the axe which hit Draco in the chest, in the heart. At seeing this she was horrified, "NOO! DRACO!" She ran on her unsteady legs over to her beloved dragon's side and held to his claw-like hand. Feeling her gentle touch he wrapped his hand gently around her and hugged her close one last time. Tears streamed down her face, "I love you..." she whispered in a shaky voice. He gave her one last weak smile before laying his head down and closing his eyes, never to open them again. Her eyes quivered as tears streamed down her cheeks heavily, "goodbye...my...love..." she buried her face into Draco's muzzle and she openly cried. Everyone stood around silently mourning the only dragon they had ever known and Bowen was mortified at what he had done to his dear friend. His mind was reeling with his own thoughts at the actions that had led to all of the things that had happened over the past few weeks.

As she cried she held onto Draco but as she was about to caress the dragon's cheek one last time she was surprised when his body turned into a golden light and began to float into the air. A gasp escaped her lips as the light surrounded her for an instant, "it's so warm..." she murmured. She knew...she knew this was Draco's way of saying he loved her too and also his way to say goodbye. Everyone looked on as Draco's light floated into the sky and joined the constellation that he was named after. The stars of the constellation entered his light then exploded which created star dust that took on the shape of a dragon that looked just like Draco. After a few moments the stars returned to their proper places and as Skygazer looked up at the stars she saw one of the stars flash with the same golden light that had surrounded her moments before. It was Draco's light, "he's finally home..." she murmured as a sad smile played on her lips. Tears streamed down her face as she continued to mourn her dragon but she knew he would always be with her and he'd always watch over her.

Several Years Later:

After that day Skygazer left the friends she had made and went back to Draco's cave where she had built a homestead. It was the only place she felt comfortable being, it was the only place she knew she could feel close to Draco...this was the only connection she had left to her dragon. One day however she had to go to town for some provisions and on this trip she came across an elderly woman walking along the road so she brought her horse to a stop, "ma'am are you alright?" she asked. The elderly lady looked up at her and smiled kindly, "oh hello deary...would you being heading towards town by chance?" she asked. Skygazer nodded, "yes ma'am I am. Do you need to get to town? I can take you there..." she offered. "Oh you are very kind deary, thank you.." the elderly woman said. Skygazer dismounted from her horse and helped the woman onto her horse, "you are very kind to help an elderly lady like me.." she said. Skygazer smiled at the woman, "oh I'm happy to do it," she said getting back into the saddle and gently trotting towards town.

Along the way the woman spoke, "you're awfully young to be out here on your own. Don't you have a place to call home?" she asked. Skygazer shook her head, "no...not anymore..." she said as she faught back tears. The woman noticed the change in the young woman she now shared a saddle with, "forgive me if I'm prying but may I ask...did you have someone you were close to?" Skygazer was a little apprehensive but she decided that this woman was harmless, "I did once but he was...very different from everyone else but...he died. He died in the rebellion." The woman nodded letting Skygazer know she had heard her, "that rebellion was really bad but I'm glad that it has long been over. There were stories that there was a dragon that helped the rebels against the King but I'm sure it's only stories.." said the woman. Skygazer stiffened slightly at the mentioning of a dragon, the woman took notice, "so you knew this dragon?" she asked. "Yes...I did..." Skygazer replied through shaky breaths. The woman then asked a question that surprised Skygazer, "you were close with this dragon were you?" The gasp that escaped Skygazer's lips told the woman she was right, "was he the one that was dearest to you?' she asked. Skygazer couldn't hide her tears, "yes he was...but there's more to it than that, I loved him." The elderly woman placed a wrinkled hand on the young woman's shoulder, "I am sorry that you lost your love in the battle deary." Skygazer glanced over her shoulder at the woman before placing a gentle hand on hers. The elderly woman smiled at Skygazer, "may I know you're name deary?" she asked. "I'm called Skygazer...but you may call me Sky," she answered. "I'm called Aria..." she replied. "It's nice to meet you Aria," Skygazer said as they reached the town, "we're here." Skygazer dismounted and then helped Aria down, "thank you deary."

The pair of women stood there for a moment before Aria spoke again, "I have a few things I need to get from the apothacary." Skygazer looked at her, "oh you're a healer?" she asked. Aria nodded, "I am but I am much more than that." Skygazer gave her a curious look, "what do you mean?" she asked. Aria laughed, "I can tell you more if you like but there's something I need help with." Skygazer was somewhat surprised that this woman was asking for her help, "just name it," Skygazer replied. Aria smiled, "first I will retrieve what I need from the apothacary then I will tell you." The young woman could tell there was more than what Aria was saying but she let it go for now, "ok Miss Aria." She watched as Aria walked towards the apothacary before going to retrieve the provisions she needed.

When she entered the small store she purchased several items then turned to the grocer, "sir may I ask for a small favor?" The kind man looked at her, "yes Miss what is it?" "I was wondering if you have a small cart that I may borrow so that I may carry the items I've purchased back to my home? I don't enough room on my horse." Skygazer explained. The grocer smiled gently, "actually I have a small cart I've been meaning to sell but haven't found anyone to buy it." Skygazer then reached for her pouch, "how much?" she asked. The grocer waved his hand, "I would never dream of charging a young woman such as yourself for a small cart like that...it's yours." Skygazer smiled, "you are very kind sir...thank you so much." He nodded then turned to a young man working towards the back, "Seth can you please bring the small cart around to the front and load this young woman's items onto it?" he asked kindly. Seth smiled at Skygazer and then nodded to the grocer before disappearing from view. Skygazer gave a grateful nod to the man behind the counter before walking out of the store to where, now her cart, was waiting for her. Skygazer then led her mare to the front of the cart and made a make-shift harness so her mare could pull it back to the cave. She waited for the elderly woman to return so she could talk to her about what she meant earlier. She didn't have to wait long because Aria came walking over to where she was lugging a satchel over her shoulder, "here allow me?" Skygazer said. A smiled played on Aria's face, "you're a very kind young woman." She then turned to Aria, "so what is it you need help with?" she asked. "Oh it's nothing really...it's just I live some distance away from here and I need to get back to my hut. Would you mind taking me?" she asked. "I'd be glad to..." Skygazer replied as she helped Aria into the cart before getting into the saddle and riding out of town. "So which way is your hut?" Skygazer asked. "It's not very far from where you found me on the road," Aria answered. "Alright..." Skygazer replied as she urged her mare forward.

They rode along for the longest time before Aria spoke, "so...do you want to know what else I do?" she asked. "If you like to then please go on..." Skygazer replied. Aria looked up at the young woman, "I am...a gypsy and I also have powers." "Powers?" Skygazer questioned, "what kind of powers?" "Oh a curious one are you?" she chuckled. "Well the powers that I have deal with not only mystical but I can also see a person's past and what their futures hold," Aria explained. Skygazer let Aria's words sink in before speaking again, "so is that how you knew about the dragon?" she asked. "It is deary and I also know that you still live in his cave because it's the only link to him that you have," Aria answered. A gasp escaped Skygazer's lips as she continued forward towards Aria's hut. Aria remained silent for several moments before revealing more, "there's one thing I know you want more than anything...and I can give it you." Upon hearing this Skygazer brought her mare to a stop, "do you really mean that? Can you really...?" Skygazer couldn't speak. Aria nodded, "I can bring him back to you." At hearing this tears welled up in her bright blue eyes, "how can you do that?" she asked. Aria smiled, "I can show you when we reach my hut...it's not too far now," she said. Skygazer nodded, "ok..." was her only response as she urged her mare forward again.

It didn't take long to reach Aria's hut and when they came to a stop Skygazer helped her down from the cart. "Where would you like your satchel?" Skygazer asked. "Come I'll show you," Aria said as she led the young woman into her hut. Once inside Skygazer looked around briefly, "just set it on the table there." Skygazer did as Aria asked as the gypsy spoke again, "come over here...I will show you how I can bring your dragon back to you." Skygazer walked over to where Aria was standing and looked down to see an old book, "in the pages of this book there are secrets and answers to many questions and the answer you've been seeking is in here as well. However it will require three things." "What are they?" Skygazer asked. Aria looked at the book, reading the ingredients needed, "well depending on what you are trying to do it takes different things. Most that come by here ask me to bring back their loved ones or sometimes a pet but for you it's gonna be unique. For you deary we'll need a couple of things from his cave." "I hope I can find the items, it's been so long since he was in there I don't know if anything of his will be left," Skygazer replied. Aria saw that Skygazer seemed discouraged, "fear not deary we will find the items needed." Skygazer nodded at Aria's encouragement, "what do we need?" she asked. "We'll need some ash, one of his scales and if possible some of his blood," Aria replied. Skygazer looked down slightly, "well the ash I can do and maybe a scale but I'm not sure about his blood." Aria placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, "you will find what we need...I can see the desire in your eyes to see your beloved dragon again." Skygazer smiled, "ok I'll go back to his cave and look for what we need." Aria nodded, "I will see you when you return." With that Skygazer left Aria's hut and rode out on her mare, heading back to Draco's cave.

It was almost nightfall when Skygazer reached her home in Draco's cave, "finally home..." she breathed. Skygazer unhitched her mare from her cart then placed her items in the house. After that was done she unsaddled her mare then placed her in the stall for the night. Only then did she begin searching the cave, "ok the ash..." she said. She made her way towards the back of the cave where she knew Draco stayed most of the time because it had heated pools and places where fire would come through the floor. "There has to be some ash in the back somewhere in here," she said to herself. When she reached the very back of the cave she felt something so familiar wash over her, "his presence is still so strong here...it's like he's still here." She looked around carefully and saw some of the places where fire would come through which kept the cavern warm. Then she noticed a couple of the old fire spots had long since gone out, "there's gotta be...ah here we go..." she said as she collected some ash and placed it into a small pouch. "Now to find a scale...now where would that be?" she said to herself. It had been many years since she could bring herself to come back to the deepest part of Draco's cave because for so long it was painful. It still hurt a little even now but she knew if she truly wanted her wish to come true she had to do it. "There are so many passages in here..." she said to herself. It was when she came around the next bend that she found Draco's sleeping spot, "it's still here...after all this time.." she whispered. She found her emotions coming to the surface for a moment and she allowed herself to indulge in it. She sat on the old bedding allowing herself to feel the hay and grasses beneath her fingertips. As she felt the grass slip through her fingers her hand brushed against something hard, "ow...what was that?" she said as she turned her focus to what she had felt. She dug through the grasses and straw until her eyes settled on the object, "*gasp*...it's here...it's really here." What she had found was an old scale that once belonged to Draco. She let her eyes rest on it for the longest time as she ran her fingers along it's edges. She then clutched it to her chest and smiled, this was the first time in many years she could actually hold onto him or in this case, a piece of him. She tucked the scale into her satchel making sure that she would keep it close to her, "now for the last ingredient, something with his blood on it. But what could I find that has his blood on it?" she asked herself. She thought for the longest time and then a thought hit her, "I wonder..." she said as she dashed towards her cabin.

Once she reached it she went inside and went to the trunk she kept at the end of her bed. She opened it and looked through the contents. Inside this chest were many things she had kept from the time she had spent with Draco before he died. There were several trinkets he had given her, even a claw she had found which she assumed had gotten broken off in a fight. Among the other items in the chest was a necklace he had forged himself with his fire breath, an old tooth that had fallen out and a stone in the shape of a heart that Draco had done himself. The last thing in the trunk was at the very bottom of it, "here it is.." she said as she pulled out the very clothes she had worn the day of the battle. Her bright blue eyes scanned the garment closely, taking care to examine the sleeves. After Draco had been struck with the axe by Bowen she had thrown her arms around him in an attempt to hold him close one last time. It was then she noted a dark stain on the bottom of the sleeve, "there it is..." she said as she tucked the shirt into her satchel before placing the other items back into the trunk. Now that she had all the items she needed she tucked them into the saddlebag on her saddle. She had considered heading back to Aria's hut but knew that the elderly woman needed her rest so she decided to return in the morning. Skygazer let a sigh pass through her lips, "he's been away from me for years now...what's one more day..." she said to herself as she turned her eyes to the sky. She quickly found the constellation that she made a habit of looking at every night before she went to sleep. Tonight was warm and comfortable so she decided to sit outside for several moments. As she gazed up at the constellation a gentle breeze began to blow her waist-length hair around her face, "oh Draco...how I miss you. You don't know how much I long to see you again. That woman I met today though she said she could bring you back to me. Can she really do that? Should I trust her? Would...would you want to be brought back?" Her mind was so full of questions but then she noticed the same star twinkle with a hint of Draco's golden light. She smiled but then it faded, "is that you telling me yes...or no..." she said. She watched it for several more moments only to see a shooting star fly across the sky. As if on instinct she clutched the necklace she always wore around her neck, which Draco had made for her, closed her eyes and made the one wish her heart wanted more than anything. "Please bring my Draco back to me..." she said before kissing the charm on the chain. After the shooting star had disappeared from sight she glanced up at the constellation once more before walking inside to go to bed for the night. As she let sleep take over her tired body she could have little idea that her wish was about to come true.

When the sun rose the next morning Skygazer was already awake and on her way back to Aria's hut. As she travelled her thoughts were on what she had been told yesterday, "can she really bring Draco back to me?" She pushed her thoughts aside for now as she arrived at the hut. Upon hearing the sound of hoofbeats Aria came outside to see who was there, "oh it's you deary, good morning. Did you find the ingredients?" she asked. Skygazer dismounted, "good morning Aria and yes I did find them.." she said handing them to Aria. "Ah these are very good...come...come inside I've already prepared a few things while I was waiting for you to come back," she said before walking back inside the hut. "It's just through here," Aria said as she led Skygazer to a back room. There was a large table in the middle of the room and Skygazer wasn't sure what to expect next, "so how will you bring him back?" she asked. Aria turned to look at the young woman, "that deary is a secret I've kept guarded for several hundred years." Upon hearing this Skygazer's jaw dropped, "wait...what? Several hundred years?" "Oops well it seems I let something slip that I shouldn't have.." Aria said to herself, "yes deary I am not what I seem to be, yes I am a gypsy and I have powers but I am far more than what you see. I am a sorceress and I have been here since long before anyone ever knew of the dragons that once lived here." "Wait dragons? You mean there use to be more than just..." she couldn't bring herself to say his name right now. "Yes deary...before your dragon became the last of his kind I knew many a dragon and I was the keeper of them," she replied. Skygazer couldn't believe what she was hearing, "you were the keeper of the dragons?" "I was for many years until men started to wipe them out. I took it upon myself to look after any hatchlings that were left behind when their parents were killed. So I knew your dragon long before you were ever born.." Aria explained kindly. "You knew...Draco?" she asked. Aria nodded as she began to combined the ingredients with a couple of other things she had procured. Skygazer was silent for the longest time as she processed everything she had just heard. Skygazer then looked at Aria, "how long will it take? To bring Draco back I mean?" she asked. Aria merely smiled at Skygazer, "give me three days then return here and you will have your dragon waiting for you." Skygazer smiled, "thank you Aria and thank you..for sharing all that with me. I promise I will keep your secret." Aria merely nodded as Skygazer saw herself out. When she stood next to her horse she glanced back at the hut before getting into the saddle and heading for her cabin inside of Draco's cave.

It wasn't long before she arrived back home and as she looked upon the cave she invisioned what it was like for the countryside to be filled with dragons and Draco being among them. "It must have been a true sight to see.." she said to herself as she subconsciously clasped her hand around the charm he had given her long ago. Once dismounting she allowed her horse to graze while she took care of a few things around her cabin. While she worked her mind was on many a conversation she and Draco had shared on the nights when she was unable to sleep and it brought her comfort to know that she may again have her beloved dragon back once more. She spent the day trying to occupy herself with things to try and keep her mind off things. She found herself going back to the trunk where she kept many precious treasures, looking upon them and smiling at the memories the items brought back to her.

Three Days Later:

Skygazer had returned to Aria's hut to see if she had truly been able to bring Draco back to life. When Skygazer arrived Aria was already waiting for her, "hello Skygazer.." she greeted as the young woman brought her horse to a stop. "Hello Aria...how are you?" she asked. "I am well...I trust you are here to see if I was truly able to bring your dragon back to you?" Aria said. Skygazer merely nodded, "come inside and I'll show you." Skygazer followed Aria cautiously inside, she was apprehensive and wondered if Aria had truly been able to do what she said. Once inside Aria spoke, "wait here deary..." with that she disappeared into the back room. Skygazer waited in the room and all the while she fidgeted with the necklace around her neck nervously. She had gotten her hopes up and she would be completely crushed if her wish was only that. After several moments she heard Aria's voice, "close your eyes deary..." she instructed. Skygazer did as she was told as she listened to the sound of footsteps coming towards her. Aria was leading someone into the room, "now before you open your eyes keep in mind that it may not be what you are use to." "Um ok..." Skygazer said, her voice shaking slightly. "Ok open your eyes," Aria said.

Upon doing so Skygazer's eyes widened slightly as she looked upon the figure standing next to Aria, "come into the light.." she said kindly. She watched carefully as the figure stepped closer to her and as he did she could see that it wasn't what she was expecting but she knew his features. Once the figure was standing in the light Skygazer took him in, "are you...are you really...?" she couldn't bring herself to say his name. The figure opened his golden eyes and looked upon the young woman, "I am..." he replied. When she heard his voice tears welled up into her bright blue eyes, "is this really my Draco that has come back to me?" The figure trained his golden gaze upon this woman as he had longed for this moment, to be able to see her again. When his eyes rested on her face he noticed her tears, "why do you cry my Sky?" he asked. Hearing this caught her attention, "what did you say? Did you just say my Sky?" she asked. "I did..." he answered. She was silent for a moment before speaking again, "the only one who use to call me that was..." and then it hit her, "it really is you..." she said as tears streamed down her face. The dragon smiled, "yes my love it is..." that was all it took as Skygazer moved to embrace her dragon in a way she hadn't been able to before. Draco was happy to have her in his arms and be able to hold her close to him. "I can't believe it...you really have come back to me," Skygazer wept. Draco wiped her tears away being mindful of his long claws before caressing her cheek, "of course I have...I never wanted to leave you like I did but at the time I had to, it was the only way." Skygazer placed a gentle hand on the one that was on her cheek, it felt good to be able to touch him again but it felt even better to hold him close to her. "When you died it felt like a part of me died with you...I felt so alone without you. You don't know how long I've waited for this..to finally have you back again. I've missed you so much Draco." "And I have missed you..." Draco then surprised Skygazer when he placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. She just smiled as she inhaled his calming scent before turning to Aria, "I don't know how to thank you." Aria merely smiled, "just keep your promise and take good care of him." "I will..." with that Skygazer and Draco left Aria's hut to head back to a very familiar place, Draco's cave.

Once they were outside Skygazer was able to see Draco completely, she noted that he looked very much human aside from the horns on his head, the leathery wings on his back and long tail with scissor-like spikes that could open and close on the end. She was surprised at his new form and she silently wondered if he was able to take his old form. Draco could tell what she was thinking, "you needn't worry my Sky in time I will be able to take my full dragon form but I will admit this form has it's advantages." She smiled as she got into the saddle and Draco got on behind her. As they rode along their minds were filled with so many things but right now they merely enjoyed this time they had together. When they came to a stop Draco was surprised to see that she had built a cabin inside his cave, "you really didn't want to leave from here did you?" he asked. "No I couldn't all my memories are here and it's the only way that I could still feel close to you," Skygazer replied as she slipped from the saddle. Draco pondered for a moment or two as he flexed his wings slightly, which caused Skygazer to look at him, "what is it?" she asked. "Why didn't you try to move on?" he asked. She looked down slightly, "I did try but...it hurt too much...going on without you..*sigh*..it was unbearable. I had thought about..." she stopped herself for she couldn't say those words. Draco knew what she was saying as he slipped from the saddle and held her in his arms, "oh my Sky I would never have wanted you to take your own life, you have so much to give. Why would you want to?" he asked. "Because without you my life had no meaning, because I wanted to be able to be with you again because I..." she paused for a moment as she looked up into the same golden eyes she knew so well. "Because?" he encouraged. "Because I love you..." she said. To say that Draco didn't know of her feelings for him was untrue, he had known of them long before the day of the battle. He knew that she loved him and she knew he loved her but the circumstances were different then, they had been unable to truly allow their love to bloom further. He was a dragon and she was a human but now, they had a real chance to truly be together and be happy. A warm smile played on the dragon's lips, "I love you too my Sky.." to finally hear those words again after so long made Skygazer happier than she had been in a long time. Then Draco surprised her by caressing her cheek and pressing his lips to hers. She couldn't move, not that she wanted to...she quickly recovered from the shock and returned the kiss with the same love he was now giving her. They had both wanted this for such a long time and now for them anything was possible. When they let go of the kiss Skygazer wore a blush on her cheeks but because Draco was a copper color all over she couldn't tell if he was or not. "I've been wanting to do that for so long..." Draco said. Hearing this made Skygazer smile, "really?" she asked. "Of course...even though we shared a kiss that night, I couldn't kiss you the way I wanted to, being the size I was before but now that I'm in this form it's much easier," he replied as he caressed her cheek. "If I'm being honest I never thought that any of this could be possible...even back then. I wanted it but despite both of us opening up to one another that night, it wasn't going to go the way we both wanted," Skygazer said. Draco nodded to let her know he had heard her, "ever since we first met I always felt so close to you. Despite knowing what you were I didn't care and it didn't stop me from falling for you. I was afraid that you didn't feel the same way about me so I kept my feelings locked away. Besides when the rebellion started I knew what could happen to you, I knew from the beginning how it was gonna end because I knew it was the only way to stop Einon once and for all. That night when...when you...when I saw you laying there I couldn't hold back anymore...if it was the last time I was ever gonna see you I had to tell you that I love you." Draco caressed her cheek as he spoke, "if I'm being honest I knew how you felt, I had known for a long time before that night...before Bowen ever found me. But that night when you ran over to me to try and protect me, I could see how much you loved me. In those finally moments after I was struck, I was happy because you were there so I could see you one last time." He wrapped his arms around her in a warm embrace before wrapping his wings around them as well. She couldn't help but giggle when she felt his wings tickle her slightly but she felt so happy being here with him. "I'm so happy to have you back in my life...promise me you will never leave me again," she said. "I promise," he replied before pressing his lips to hers once more. It was then that Skygazer spoke, "come on let's go inside I imagine you're hungry by now." He nodded, "yeah but I'm sure you are as well." She nodded, "I am...luckily I have some left over deer meat from yesterday I can cook up for us." Draco smiled as he followed his woman inside her cabin.

While inside her cabin Draco looked around at his new surroundings, "you have built quite the little home here...I'm impressed." "Thank you, I know it seems odd to build a cabin inside a cave but I just felt more comfortable being in here than out there somewhere. Besides I also felt safer, I knew no one would come poking around an old dragon cave," Skygazer said. He looked at her, "clever girl..." he said sitting in one of the chairs. She merely smiled as she cooked but she noted the curious look on Draco's face, "if you'd like to look around go ahead. This is your home too and I know you like being fully aware of your surroundings." He merely nodded as he stood up, being mindful not to flex his wings or swing his tail inside. He examined every inch of the cabin before making his way towards what he assumed was her bedroom. He was unsure if he should or not but her voice reached his ears, "go ahead Draco besides you'll be sleeping in there as well." He was a bit surprised by her statement but went ahead into the room anyway. As he looked around the room he noted the blanket was handstitched and it had small elements of him on it, "she's so talented.." he said to himself. He looked around for several moments more before sitting on the bed, he was picking up on something but he wasn't sure what it was, "what is that scent?" He sniffed around a bit more until he came across the trunk she kept at the foot of her bed. He placed a clawed-hand on the lid noting the intricate designs carved into it, he could make out the constellation at the top and a dragon with a woman standing next to him at the bottom. "I wonder...is this where she keeps her most precious of treasures?" he silently wondered. Before he could take a peek inside he heard her voice call out to him, "Draco food's ready." "Coming..." he said as he made a note to ask her about it later on. When Draco entered the kitchen area he was surprised to see the meal Skygazer had prepared, "you really have out done yourself.." he commented. She merely smiled as they sat down to eat, "I hope you enjoy..." she said.

During their meal Skygazer's mind was filled with thoughts of all that had happened. She was completely elated that her dragon had come back to her but somehow it still felt like a dream to her. She side-glanced at him from the corner of her eye, "I wonder what he's thinking?" she said to herself. Draco knew from her silence that Skygazer was deep in thought and it was understandable, it wasn't every day that someone you love comes back from the dead. He knew that today had been a lot for her and it had been for him too and if he was being honest he wasn't really sure what to do with himself now. He was so use to being in his dragon form but now that he had this new form, it was gonna take some getting use to. He also silently wondered what his little woman kept in the trunk in her bedroom, "my Sky..." She looked up at him, "yes Draco?" "There's something I'd like to ask you," he said. "You can ask me anything you want to," Skygazer answered. "When I was looking around the bedroom I noticed the large trunk at the end of the bed. I was curious about what you keep in it," he said. Skygazer looked down slightly, "I can show you if you like." He looked at her and wondered why she had gotten kind of quiet, "are you alright?" he asked. "Yeah I'm fine, it's just been a lot to take in..." she replied. He nodded in understanding as they ate together, "I know what you mean.." was his only response. After they finished eating Draco helped Skygazer clean the table before they walked into the bedroom. She led him over to the trunk, "you ready to find out what I keep in here?" she asked him, he merely nodded as she opened up the lid. Upon opening the lid Draco's senses were filled with something familiar, "what is that scent?" he asked. She looked at him, "I'm not sure...I don't smell anything but then again your sense of smell is a lot stronger than mine, you are still a dragon afterall." He looked down into the trunk as Skygazer lifted an item from it, "do you remember this?" she asked as she held up a piece of armor that was made from his scales. He was surprised to see the item again, "you kept this?" he asked. She smiled, "yes I did and I can tell you it's saved my life more than once too.." she replied as she allowed him to hold the armor in his hands. He let his fingers trace the scales, "it feels like just yesterday that I gave you this.." he said. She remained silent as she let the memory come flooding back.

Memory:

"Hello my Sky," Draco greeted. "Hey Draco, you're awake early this morning," Skygazer said. He smiled his toothy grin as he spoke, "well I'm usually up early but this time I've been working on something," he said. Hearing this made her look up at him curiously, "what have you been working on?" she asked. He couldn't keep the grin off his dragon face, "come here and I'll show you," he said. She walked over to the dragon making sure not to get too close so as not to be stepped on or accidentally hit with his tail. He led her over towards where his bedding was, "it's over here.." he said. When she came over to where he was standing she was surprised to see what was laying there, "what's this?" she asked. "I know you were looking at maybe getting some new armor in town but I thought I would save you the trip and the gold you would have to spend. I took some of my old scales and I made you some armor from them," he explained. Skygazer was touched that this dragon whom she barely knew was so kind to her, "Draco you did this? For me?" she asked as she examined the armor. "Of course I did...besides..." he looked away slightly before looking back at her, "you're the only human that has ever been kind to me so...you are very dear to me and I..." she looked up at him, "I care about you.." he said. She smiled up at him, "Draco...I'm touched that you did this, thank you..." she replied. "You're welcome," he said, "I hope it fits." She looked at it, "I'm sure it will...you did a really good job," she said removing the old worn out armor she always wore. He rubbed that back of his neck slightly, a very human-like gesture for a dragon, "here let me help you put it on." She stood still as he lifted the armor up, "here hold up ur arms.." he said gently. She did as he asked and stood still as he carefully lowered the armor down onto her small form. "Ok hold onto it while I fasten it," he instructed kindly. She held it still so he could fasten the straps he had attached to it, she was pleasantly surprised that he was being so gentle with her. "There we go...that's not too tight is it?" he asked. "No it's a very comfortable fit and surprisingly light...more so than I thought it would be," she said. He was pleased that she liked his gift, "I'm pleased that you like it.." he said as he layed down in front of her. "I love it...and the fact that you took the time to make it for me.." she smiled up at him before she approached him and embraced him the best she could. Feeling this he was surprised by this action but carefully brought his dragon hand against her back to return the embrace as best he could being careful not to hurt her.

End of Memory:

"You know that was the first time you surprised me because at the time I never thought that a dragon was capable of being so kind. The fact that you took the time to take your old scales and make me this armor, it just meant so much to me," she said.

He knew what she meant with her words, "well you were my first human friend that I ever had so it felt only right to look out for you because you were the first person I truly cared about." She smiled as she nuzzled his shoulder slightly before she gently took the armor from him and set it on the bed before picking up the next item. "There's something else I know you will remember," she said picking up a small box. "What's in it?" he asked. "Go ahead and look," she said. He gently took the small box from her before opening it and when he did his dragon eyes widened slightly, "you kept this...after all this time?" he asked. "Of course I did besides you did forge it with your own fire," she stated. He smiled, "good point," he said as his eyes rested on the necklace he had made from bits of silver he had found and also there was a small gem in the setting he had done, "how did you find the stuff to make it anyway?" she asked. "I know where all the hiding places are around here and one of them just so happens to be a mine that still had bits of silver left in it and I got lucky when I found the ruby to put in it," Draco explained. "That's not the only thing I kept," she said as she lifted the necklace from around her neck, "*gasp* the rose quartz necklace I gave you...I wasn't sure that you still had it," he admitted. She just smiled, "of course I still have it...it's my most precious of treasures...I never take it off." He smiled as he handed it back to her before she placed it back around her neck. A content silence passed between them for a moment or two before they placed the items back into the trunk. After sharing some old memories together they decided to sit outside the cave and enjoy the pretty weather. They sat together on the large rock that was outside the cave and as they sat there Draco kept his arm around the only woman who had ever captured his heart. There was a comfortable silence that passed between them until Skygazer asked an innocent question, "Draco...when do you think you'll be able to take your full dragon form?" He looked at her briefly before looking at the ground in front of him, "I'm not sure...but I guess once my strength has fully returned I'll have the ability to transform into my true dragon form," he replied. She thought for a moment before speaking again, "but if you take your dragon form won't that make it easy for people to find you?" she asked. "You forget how well I can hide, remember how long it took you to realize I was even in this cave?" he asked. She had to laugh at that statement, "yeah I guess you're right...before I met you I didn't even know dragons existed. I mean I had heard stories but I thought that's all they were, just stories." He nodded in understanding, "yeah I guess there are plently of stories about my kind but still those stories can be bad for us because there are men that still want to make a name for themselves by taking us down." "Having to hide from the world all the time must get tiring," Skygazer said. "You have no idea, always having to be on alert, never truly being able to relax out in the warm sunshine and if we do we have to use our camouflage so humans will think we're just large rocks. I still remember when Brother Gilbert sat on my head and was trying to get his quill to work, it really tickled.." Draco replied at the memory. Skygazer laughed, "I know he had quite the surprise when you moved beneath him and made him fall off and into the water.." she said. He looked at her curiously, "how did you know that?" he asked. A small blush covered her cheeks, "you were watching me?" he asked. "I was worried, I didn't know what was going to happen when Bowen showed up at the waterfall that day. So I kept an eye on you from behind that rock after you told me to get into some cover," she answered. He was silent for a moment or two before speaking again, "that day turned out completely different than I thought it would," he said. "Yes it did," she replied. He turned slightly before caressing her cheek with his clawed-hand, "I'm glad we found each other back then my Sky," he said before pressing his dragon lips to hers in a tender kiss. It felt good to be kissing him, she had missed this so much and she knew he had too. When they let go of the kiss she spoke again, "I've got a question for you?" "Ok.." he said. "When did you first start having feelings for me?" she asked. Draco had to think back for a moment before answering her question, "well..." he started, "it was sometime after I made you that armor but before I gave you the silver necklace. So I'd say it was about the time when I gave you the quartz necklace that I found myself smiling at just the mere thought of you. It took me a while to really realize it because I had never felt that way before. I mean sure I had been with the Scarred One but she and I, it was more out of duty to our kind than actual love. With you though...I knew I deeply cared about you as a friend but I didn't know if it was more than that. You were the first human that I had truly cared about, because you had never showed any fear of me and you were always so kind to me. You even protected me by keeping the secret of my existance and my hiding places. That was one reason I gave you that quartz charm...it was a small way for me to thank you. There was one night that I remember clearly and I thought about it often back then. It was that night a really rough storm came through and you had come inside and you were completely drenched from the rain." "I remember...I still remember you wrapping that make-shift blanket around me to try and warm me up," she said. "Yeah, when I saw you like that I couldn't just let you stay cold and wet. That's when I brought you around to where my bedding was, it was also where I kept a small fire for warmth. When you saw that you didn't hesitate to cuddle up against me. That was really the first contact we ever had, aside from when you hugged me for giving you that armor but this was different. You had never really gotten very close to me before that night. What really surprised me though when the storm got even rougher and the thunder continuously rolled you clung to me." "Yeah that was the first time I truly felt comfortable being so close to you, I knew that you cared about me and looked out for me," she replied. "Your actions that day told me that you were completely comfortable with me and that you found me comforting. When you lay against me for warmth I also found comfort in being so close to you and I just lay my head down near you and just enjoyed that moment with you," Draco said. Skygazer looked at him, "you were always so considerate and so aware of where I was...you were always so careful." He nodded, "of course...besides that night, I realized that I did have feelings for you but I couldn't tell you then because I mean I was a dragon and you a human...it would never have worked, well not in the way we would've wanted it to anyway." Skygazer looked down slightly before turning her gaze back to him, "what about now?" she asked. He looked at her with his golden gaze, "now...I may still be a dragon and you a human but in this form, things will definitely be easier for us." She smiled as she wrapped her arms around him as he too held her close before burying his nose into her hair. They spent most of the evening together, watching the sunset and simply enjoying the peace that came with living way out in the countryside.

By late evening they had shared many a memory and had grown even closer because of it, "I don't remember the last time I was this happy," Skygazer commented. Draco then took her hand in his as he spoke, "I do..." she looked up at him. "Do you remember the night before the battle?" he asked. A blush covered her cheeks and her eyes softened, "yes I do...it's one of my most vivid memories.." she murmured. "That night was one of best nights of my life, even though I knew what lay ahead of us in the morning, I was still happy that I got to spend it with you," Draco said. "Draco..." Skygazer breathed. It was then that their bodies seemed to move of their own free will as they shared a kiss but this kiss was different from any other they had shared. As they kissed it became more heated, Draco pulled back slightly to look her in the eye and when he did he saw that her eyes were glazed over with something he had never seen before. Something inside him understood and in one swift motion he picked Skygazer up and carried her inside the cave. He knew of a spot that held hot springs and he made his way there still with her in his arms. She remained silent as she allowed him to take her wherever he was going.

When they reached the hot springs Draco set her onto her feet before stripping himself out of the make-shift clothing he wore and turning to her. She understood and removed her clothes as well, leaving only the rose quartz charm around her neck. Draco held his hand out to her and led her in as he stepped into the water. Now in the water they stared at each other for a moment or two before they began kissing again. Their kisses became more heated and they let their guards completely down and simply enjoyed this moment together. This moment was a completely new experience for both of them but they lowered themselves into the water and solidified their love by uniting their bodies. Draco knew he had to be gentle with her and not get too carried away for fear of hurting her. Skygazer was slightly apprehensive but she let herself enjoy this moment with her dragon. She sat in his lap while he kept an arm around her waist and his free hand on the back of her neck as he continued to kiss her. Skygazer's hands lowered from his shoulders to below the water to find his member, which was normally hidden within his body, was now fully exposed, engorged and ready to lay claim to her and make her his. She knew, he wanted her...deep down she had always wanted this with him too but never imagined that she would finally have the opportunity to have this kind of connection with him. She wrapped her fingers around it to get a feel of it and in doing so caused a low pleasure-filled growl to emanate from the dragon's throat. After stroking it for several moments she lifted herself and slowly allowed him to enter. He was larger than she expected but ignored the slight discomfort that came with it. He knew that she was still pure and remained still to allow her to adjust to him. After a few moments Skygazer moved up and down slightly and Draco slowly moved with her, enjoying the feel of her body against his in this way. As he thrust upward he remained mindful of her small body that was far more fragile than his. Skygazer placed her hands on his shoulders to steady herself but found she couldn't dig her nails into him, not with his thick scales. He could still feel her passion as she held onto him and he captured her lips with his once more as he continued to thrust into her. She had never imagined that it would feel this good with him but it did, even though he was a dragon. Their hearts beat in time with one another, Skygazer wrapped her legs around his scaly waist and after several hard thrusts Draco came deep within her, with her right behind him. For several moments neither of them moved as they rode the waves of ecstacy together. It was euphoric for them both and they felt a deeper connection building between them. They kissed tenderly and nuzzled affectionately before disconnecting and making their way to the edge of the pool and getting out. They sat there for the longest time still wrapped in each other's arms, feeling closer than they ever thought possible to each other. Draco grabbed a blanket he knew Skygazer kept nearby and wrapped it around themselves. Draco had his back against the rock wall while Skygazer sat in front of him leaning her head against his shoulder. She had never felt more contented than she did right now and Draco felt the same way, for them nothing needed to be said and they simply enjoyed the moment together.

They spent several moments sitting beside the hot springs pool before either of them spoke, "my Sky..." "Hmm..." "Are you alright? I didn't hurt you did I?" he asked. "No darling I'm alright..." Skygazer replied. He smiled as he rested his head on her shoulder before giving her cheek a lick which made her giggle. Draco was contented being here with her like this, he hadn't been this happy in a long time. Skygazer rested her head against his as she felt his warm breath tickle her slightly, "can I ask you something?" "Of course you can ask me anything," Draco replied. She thought for a moment or two before speaking the words, "back then...I mean, the night before the battle...when we were staring up at the star-filled sky...did you...I mean if you had been in the form you are now would you have..." she was stumbling over her words. Draco was a bit surprised by this but he knew what she was asking, he placed a gentle hand on her cheek which caused her to turn around in his lap so she was facing him. He looked her in the eye as he spoke, "yes...I did think about us in this way..." he brushed a stray piece of her hair away from her face. Skygazer placed a gentle hand on the one that was on her cheek and nuzzled against slightly before kissing his palm. This gesture made him smile, "you're so affectionate.." he said. "Of course...I love you Draco..." she replied. He smiled at her, "I love you too my Sky," he said before kissing her lips once more. They were enjoying this moment and they didn't want it to end but they knew that it was getting late and they needed to get some rest. "Well it's getting late...we really should get some sleep," Skygazer said. Draco nodded, "yeah I guess you're right..." he replied as they stood up from where they had been sitting. They grabbed their clothes, got redressed and made their way back to the cabin, to their home, to turn in for the night.

Once they reached the cabin Skygazer led Draco back towards the bedroom, "are you sure you want me to sleep in here with you? I can just sleep on the sofa in the other room..." Draco said. "Nonsense..." she then turned to look at him, "I want you here...I've thought about having you laying next to me many times. How good it will feel to be wrapped in your arms and wake up to you laying next to me," Skygazer said. Draco smiled at her, "very well..." he replied. Skygazer changed into her night clothes while Draco removed the armor he had been wearing and would sleep in the pair of black pants he wore with his armor. After she had crawled into bed Draco got in beside her, "goodnight my love..." Skygazer whispered. He smiled as he wrapped an arm around her small frame, "goodnight my Sky..." he replied. With that the pair fell asleep laying next to each other. It was about midnight when Draco began dreaming, dreaming of the night...during the battle and everything that had happened:

Dream:

Draco lay chained to the ground by the dragonslayers and he could do nothing to keep Einon from fighting with Bowen. As he lay there he faught against the chains to no avail, "if only I could get loose..." he said to himself. His thoughts were interrupted by Einon falling from somewhere up above. Moments later Bowen came down to free him from his restraints, "now it's you Bowen...it's you that has to do it..." he stated. "What are you talking about?" Bowen questioned as he worked on the chain that held the dragon's head down. "As the heart binds Einon to me in life it's binds us in death..." he said. As Bowen lifted the heavy chain he spoke, "that's not true..." he said. "You've seen that it is, through the heart we share each other's pain and power but in my half beats the life source. For Einon to die I must die..." he retorted as he managed to jerk one of the chains, that held his right front leg free. The Knight looked at his friend, "Einon is dead..." he said not sounding very convincing. Draco's anger rose slightly, "HE LIVES!" he half shouted. Bowen looked at the dragon with frustration on his face, "it doesn't matter...don't you hear it...our rebels have stormed the castle. Alive or dead Einon is beaten, we've won." "You will never win until Einon's evil is destroyed and to do that you must destroy me," Draco said, his voice full of anguish. "No..." Bowen said slightly shaking his head because he didn't want to hear these words from his only dragon friend. "Once you swore your sword and service were mine. To call when I have need of you, to ask what I would of you...I hold you to your vow Knight!" Draco said sternly. It was then that he heard footsteps approaching which made the dragon turn his head in the direction it was coming from, "he's coming...coming to stop you...strike before it's too late." Bowen looked in the direction Draco was and saw that it was only Kara. He then turned to look at him, "you are the last." "My time is over...STRIKE!" "You are my friend," Bowen said his voice full of sorrow. "Then as my friend...STRIKE PLEASE!" Draco half roared. Bowen then turned his back to Draco, "I can't." Draco then felt an anger he had never felt and it was directed at the first human friend he had, "then I will make you..." he said. He stood up, roared and began striking out at the once proud dragonslayer which made Bowen tuck and roll and grab the axe laying on the ground. It hurt Draco to do this but he knew he had to die so that Einon would die, "fight back dragonslayer...defend yourself." Then taking a deep breath he unleashed his flames at the Knight but Bowen merely stood between the columns of fire, refusing to strike the dragon. Bowen then raised the axe before throwing it away from him. To see the now defiance from Bowen he roared, "pick it up!" What they failed to notice was that Einon had come back outside and had been creeping up on Kara. He then put his sword to her neck as he spoke, "move...and she dies..." Brother Gilbert looked down at his quiver only to find that he had no more arrows. Seeing this only made Einon laugh but Draco had a surprise for him as he brought his jaws down on his own hand which made the tyrant King cry out in pain and let go of the young woman. She scrambled to get away as Einon drew his dagger and began to run towards the man that was once his mentor. Everything seem to move in slow motion as Einon charged forward, seeing this Bowen reached for the axe he had thrown down. Draco slowly raised up which caused Bowen to look at him as the dragon raised his most vulnerable spot, the scale that protected his heart. Bowen looked from the dragon to the charging young man. In Draco's head he could hear his voice saying the same thing over and over again, "strike...strike...STRIKE...STRIKE!" As Bowen turned and threw the axe the dream ended.

End of Dream:

"STRIKE!" Draco yelled as he jolted out of his slumber and sat straight up in bed. He panted slightly as a voice came from beside him, "Draco?" he looked at her and realized he had woken her up too. "My Sky, I didn't mean to wake you up," he replied gently. She rubbed her eyes slightly as she spoke, "what happened? Did you have a bad dream?" she asked. He looked down slightly, "you could say that..." was his only response. "Do you want to talk about it?" she asked. He thought about it for a moment or two before shaking his head, "no..." he turned to her, "try and go back to sleep dear.." he said kissing her forehead. Being too sleepy to protest Skygazer lay back down as Draco too settled back down and wrapped his arm around her small form. As he drifted back off to sleep he tried to shake the last memory he had of his old friend and let sleep overtake him once more.

The next morning found Skygazer already awake and preparing something warm for them to drink, all the while she was deep in thought. "I wonder what Draco could've been dreaming about? Would he tell me if I asked him?" her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of his footsteps approaching. "Good morning Draco," she greeted. He snaked his scaly arms around her waist, "good morning to you my beautiful treasure..." he said as he placed a kiss on her neck. Feeling his scaly lips against her skin made her shiver slightly, "someone is being romantic this morning.." she cooed. There was silence for a moment before the dragon spoke, "I wanted to make up for startling you last night." "It's alright darling..." she then glanced over her shoulder at him, "so what was it that woke you up last night?" she asked curiously. He knew she would ask but he wasn't sure if he should tell her or not. He debated for a moment or two before he spoke, "it was about that night..." was his response.

She gave him a curious look but then as she thought about it, it hit her, "oh you mean...you..." she couldn't say it. He merely nodded, "it was so vivid, it was like being there all over again." She remained silent as he continued, "I don't know...I just feel like there's a part of me that can't get past that moment with..." he stopped short. She knew what he was talking about, "it's because that was the last thing that happened between you and Bowen, isn't it?" she asked knowing full well that was the reason. Draco looked down slightly as he spoke, "it just hurts...I mean I know I told him it was the only way to stop Einon and in a way, I'm glad but...at the same time...I didn't want that to be our last interaction before...before I..." he couldn't say the words.

Skygazer turned around in his arms and embraced him, "I know neither of you wanted that to happen, especially in the final moments but..." she placed a gentle hand beneath his chin so his golden gaze would meet her blue one, "he has always seen you as his friend." "You speak of him as if he's still alive," Draco said. She smiled at him, "he is...both he and Kara are taking care of the people with Brother Gilbert's help. Well last I heard anyway..." she said. He let her words sink in for a moment then Skygazer spoke again, "you know...we could go back there and you could see him again." Hearing this made his heart beat a bit faster, "you mean I could..." he couldn't speak. She placed a gentle kiss on his scaly cheek, "yes you can be able to see him again but..." she stood back and looked at him for a moment. Draco gave her a curious look, "but?" he repeated. "We need to...um...hide your dragon features, at least until it's just the three of us. Besides we don't want to startle people and cause an uproar," she reasoned. He thought about it and decided that she was right, "alright so how are we gonna go about it?" he asked. "Um give me a moment and let me think," she replied. There was silence for the longest time before she spoke again, "well to hide your body you could wear the armor Aria gave you and to hide your horns, wings and tail we could throw a cloak around you." "Good idea..." Draco said. "Yeah...it would be good to keep the hood up, until we get to talk to Bowen," Skygazer said. Draco nodded in understanding, "ok..." he replied. "Alright let's go ahead and get ready to go," Skygazer said. A smile played on the dragon's lips as he nodded. Several moments later they were dressed and ready to leave the cave and head towards the castle they knew well. Skygazer sat atop her mare while Draco sat in the small wagon she had gotten when she had gone to town, "you ready to go?" she asked looking back at the dragon. "As I'll ever be," Draco replied. Skygazer nodded before giving her mare a gentle kick to urge her forward, "are you nervous?" she asked. Draco was silent for a moment, "yeah...a little.." he admitted. Skygazer nodded as they continued onward, "it's understandable..." was her remark.

They travelled along at a good clip until they came across a sight that was all too familiar, "look there..." Draco said. Skygazer glanced off to the side and saw a wagon on fire and the people strewn about everywhere, "what could've done this?" she said. Draco stifled a growl in his throat, "it's not what...but who. Bandits did this..." he said. Skygazer's face darkened slightly, "we best keep our whits about us and be ready to defend if we come upon them," she said. "No problem there..." Draco said to himself as kept a glove-clad claw on the sword Skygazer had lended to him. They didn't see anything else along their way but they became filled with many different emotions upon returning to the land where the rebellion had taken place so long ago, "we're here..." Skygazer said. Draco took in the sight ahead of him and he could still feel the energy of the battle and he could still hear the sound of clashing weapons ringing in the air. He could still see an echo of himself flying through the air taunting the dragonslayers. "Look there..." her voice brought him out of his daydream, "the castle...it's been rebuilt." "So it has..." was Draco's only response. "It's even grander than I remember but of course back then...it was darker and intimidating," Skygazer said. "Ha only because of what lay within it's walls," Draco growled. Skygazer knew that coming back here would bring back old memories and reopen old wounds, for the both of them but they had to press on.

They soon reached the castle gates only to be greeted by a familiar face, "Hugh..." Skygazer said. Upon hearing his name he looked in her direction, "Skygazer? Skygazer is that you?" he asked. "It is...it's been too long," she replied bringing her mare to a stop in front of him. "You have certainly changed from the young girl I knew long ago," he commented. She smiled at him, "well it has been many years since those days." "Yes it has..." then he noticed the figure sitting in the wagon behind her, "who's your friend?" he asked. She looked back at Draco then back at Hugh, "I'll uh...I'll tell you later." "So what brings you out this way?" he asked. "I was just passing through and was wondering how Bowen was doing. Is he around by chance?" she asked. "Yeah he's in the courtyard training some new men," he replied. She gave him a curious look to which he laughed, "he's still a mentor to the young who want to become Knights." She nodded in understanding, "well if he's busy then I can come back later." "Oh nonsense I can take you to him besides, he'll be happy to see you," Hugh replied. She nodded as she urged her mare foward. In the courtyard Bowen was branishing a wooden stave, "alright just like I showed you now...on guard!" he called out as several young men mimiced the moves he had shown them previously. When Skygazer reached the courtyard she found amusement in the sight before her as did Draco, "ha reminds me of when you were first learning to wield a sword," the dragon teased. Skygazer merely laughed as she watched them for a moment more, "yes it does." It was then that Hugh spoke, "Bowen..." he called making the Knight look in his direction, "you have a visitor." Bowen turned his gaze from Hugh to the young woman who sat atop a mare that he knew well, "Sky..." he said as his jaw seem to hit the ground. Skygazer dismounted and stood near her mare. The Knight turned to the group, "we'll pick this back up later..." he said as he let the stave fall from his grasp. Skygazer watched as he approached her with a look that she hadn't seen on his face in some time, "it's good to see you Bowen.." she said as he embraced her. Draco remained silent for now to let them have a moment as he was currently lost in his thoughts and his memories, "it's good to see you too Sky...I wasn't sure you would ever come back here after..." he couldn't say the words. She smiled, "I know I almost didn't but I was in the area and decided to stop by for a visit.." she replied. Bowen then noticed a cloaked figure sitting in the wagon hitched behind her mare, "who this you have with you?" he asked. Skygazer had to think of something to tell him, "this is a friend but um listen...can we talk somewhere, privately?" she asked. "Well of course come on inside and we can talk there," he said. Skygazer nodded then turned to Draco, "come on..." she said gently. Draco carefully got out of the wagon making sure not to move his wings or his tail so as not to draw attention to himself. "Right this way," Bowen said leading them into the castle.

Once inside Bowen led them to a room where he would often come to, to be alone and he made sure to close the door behind them. After a moment or so he spoke, "so um...who is this that you have brought with you?" he asked again. Skygazer was ready to answer but Draco beat her to it, surprising them both, "hello old friend..." he said as he removed his hood to reveal a face Bowen knew, oh very well indeed. The Knight's mouth hung open as he just stared at the dragon that stood before him, "th-this can't be...it's impossible...I...I mean you...Draco...is that really you?" Bowen was speechless. Draco smiled, "yes it's really me old friend." Bowen stood for a moment longer before sitting down as he tried to calm himself for a moment. After some silence had passed he spoke, "how? How is this...how are you here?" he asked looking squarely at the dragon. "Fate...brought me back here..." he glanced at Skygazer, "so I could be with this young woman.." he said taking her hand in his. Bowen's eyes widened slightly, "what?" Skygazer then gave Bowen a quick rundown of what all had transpired to be able to bring Draco back to life and by the end, he understood. The pair allowed Bowen to absorb everything that he had heard before either of them spoke, "well it's fortunate that you happened upon that woman Sky otherwise Draco wouldn't be here." The dragon's keen eye noticed something changed in the Knight, "what is it Bowen?" he asked. Bowen was silent for a long time, unable to look Draco in the eye until the dragon spoke his name, "Bowen..." the Knight looked up at him. "I know the last time we saw each other was...well..." Bowen looked at the ground before turning his gaze back to the dragon, "but you should know that I don't hold any kind of grudge against you at all. It's like I said back then, it was the only way to stop him once and for all...so you shouldn't feel guilty." Draco stood squarely in front of the Knight as he stood up, "you don't know how much guilt I felt about my actions after that night. For a long time I couldn't get that night out of my head and sometimes I still deal with it," Bowen admitted. Draco placed a scaly hand on his friend's shoulder, "Bowen...you had no choice and besides I'm back and I'm never leaving again," he said. After a moment or two silence passed between them before they both recieved a surprise as Bowen embraced Draco. The dragon had never seen the Knight show such emotion but he returned the embrace. Skygazer stood quietly to allow them to have a moment they've been waiting to have for a long time, "it's good that they finally get to have a real friendship moment..." she thought to herself. After a few moments they let go of each other, "I still can't believe you're really here," Bowen said. "I know it's a lot to take in but Sky is the reason I'm here and I get to be with you all again. So I meant to ask how are Kara and Brother Gilbert?" Draco asked. Just as Bowen was about to answer the door opened to reveal the red-haired woman that had helped to start the rebellion long ago. "Bowen I thought you were..." she stopped short when she saw Skygazer standing in the room, "Sky? Is that you?" she asked. "Hello Kara it's good to see you again," Skygazer said. It was then that Draco got noticed by Kara, "what the? Who is?" She took a few steps closer before she realized who it was standing in the room with them, "oh my god...Draco...is that? How?" she couldn't speak. He smiled a toothy grin at her, "it's good to see you too Kara.." he said. Kara looked at Bowen then Skygazer, "it's a long story..." was Skygazer's response.

Several moments went by with Skygazer explaining everything to Kara just as she had done for Bowen. Kara was left speechless, "wow...I didn't even know that something like this was even possible. How long will you be in this form?" she asked. Draco scratched his chin slightly, "I'm not really sure...Aria told me that it was up to me when I was able to take my true form again but honestly I'm very comfortable in this form. Besides it does have it's advantages..." he remarked but everyone understood the message hidden within the words. "So where are you two staying?" Kara asked. "We're staying at my cabin, it's actually in Draco's cave," Skygazer answered. "You built a cabin in a cave?" Bowen asked cocking an eyebrow. Skygazer laughed, "yeah at the time it was the only way I could feel close to Draco, it was the only thing left of him." Bowen nodded in understanding and he was about to speak when Brother Gilbert came through the door, "Sir Knight.." he called as he walked into the room only to notice Kara in there with Bowen. "Oh forgive me I was unaware that you two wanted to be alone, I will just see myself out," he said as he was completely oblivious to the other two figures standing in the room. "Uh Brother Gilbert we weren't um..." Bowen started but Kara cut in, "we were spending time with friends that came to visit." "Friends?" he asked, still completely clueless. Kara motioned towards Skygazer then Draco, "oh Sky...it's been too long child I trust that you have been well?" he asked. Skygazer smiled at the absent minded monk, "I've been well but I recently have been reunited with someone I cared about.." she said looking at Draco. Brother Gilbert looked at her then looked at the 'young man' in the room with them. After a moment or two he spoke, "child I dare say you could've chosen someone more rugged or handsome...do forgive me for being blunt but this one looks as though he's been uh..." then he stopped when he got a good look at the 'young man' standing next to her. He cocked his head slightly to the side like a curious dog. Both Kara and Skygazer had to bite their lip to keep from laughing at the monk's obliviousness. Brother Gilbert then looked at Bowen, "I dare say Bowen this chap looks like a dragon..." he said laughing. It was then that Bowen placed a hand on his friend's shoulder, "Brother Gilbert...he is a dragon." The monk looked between Bowen and Draco for a moment or two, "what?" Bowen then motioned to Draco, "look..." he said. Brother Gilbert looked again and did indeed notice that this 'man' was a dragon. As he scanned the dragon's face he spoke, "you know you look familiar." Draco smiled, "well you should recognize me...well sort of, I was in a different state when last you saw me." It took a moment or two for Draco's voice to register, "Bowen he sounds like...he looks like..." he stopped short. Bowen then spoke, "that's because he is." Brother Gilbert then just stared at Draco for a moment before speaking, "well you look good...it was very different when last I saw you. But you're here and it's good to have you back." Draco smiled, "it's good to see you too brother." After a moment or two the girls couldn't hold back and began giggling while Bowen merely chuckled and Draco simply shook his head, "nothing's changed.." he thought to himself.

The pair spent the better part of the day with their friends catching up and making up for lost time. He had to admit it felt good to spend time with people he cared for but his dragon mind was still on many thoughts and feelings. It felt as though he were in a dream but was glad that it wasn't because he was happier than he had been in a long time. Skygazer was thoroughly enjoying this time with their friends but knew they would soon have to head back to their cabin. Bowen and Kara hadn't been able to relax like this for the longest time, not since the war had ended, "you know something Sky it's been so long since we have actually been able to relax...we have been needing it for the longest time," Kara said. Bowen nodded his head, "she's right ever since the war ended we've been busy taking care of the people. You know they actually want me and Kara to rule as the new King and Queen," he chimed in. Draco's mouth hung open for a few moments, "Bowen that's great...you and Kara would make good rulers because you both have the people's best interest at heart. With you being a Knight, Bowen you have the Old Code to guide you and Kara knows the people best because she was raised amongst them so she can help you with the decisions that will best help them." Bowen and Kara looked at each other before looking back at Draco, "wow Draco you seem all in on this..." Kara said. "Yeah we haven't even decided if we want that kind of responibility put on us," Bowen added. "Why wouldn't I be? I saw how you two were before the battle with that tyrant, you wouldn't have rallied those people if you didn't want a better world for them," Draco reasoned. Brother Gilbert decided to chime in, "he's right Sir Knight...I mean look at what you've accomplished so far. You banded everyone together to overthrow that tyrant and you can bring the people forward to a properous future." Skygazer nodded in agreement, "they both make very good points...without you two things wouldn't be the way they are now." The pair remained silent for the longest time before either of them spoke, "so what do you think Bowen? What they say is true...do you think we could really do this?" Kara asked. Bowen looked squarely at the woman standing next to him, "well...it has to be easier than the fight against Einon was..." he said casually. Draco then stood up as he decided to speak, "listen to me Knight you have all the qualities that could make you a great King but you're self doubt won't help you. You've seen that the people out there rely on you now just like they did back then, nothing has changed. So stand tall, stand proud and lead the people the way they should be led. Afterall you and this woman are responsible for bringing them this far already, you can't start questioning yourself now." Skygazer stepped up to stand beside Draco, "Bowen...Draco is right...you chose to be a Knight a long time ago for a reason and look where it's brought you. It's brought you to a world that is finally at peace and you have a strong woman standing by your side to help you so you won't be doing it alone." Bowen looked down slightly before locking eyes with his dragon friend, "I am not without fear..." he admitted. Draco placed his clawed-hands on the Knight's shoulders, "that is good...you would be foolish if you didn't have that fear. It makes you cautious and everything you have experienced in your life makes you wise. You have all you need to become the King these people need...you can do this my friend. You both can..." Draco said glancing at Kara. The pair smiled, "well how can we argue with that? What do you say Kara...will you rule this land with me?" Bowen asked as he held out his hand to her. Kara was surprised by his statement but blushed slightly as she spoke, "yes Bowen I will..." she replied. Their friends smiled at the scene before them, "Kara..you have made this Knight very happy.." Bowen said but then did something that surprised everyone in the room. He kissed Kara's hand then knelt before her, "Bowen what are you doing?" she asked. He locked his gaze with hers, "I want to do this the right way..." Bowen took a breath before he spoke again, "Kara I know we've have been through so much since we met so long ago and I know we still have much that we will learn about each other in the days to come. There have been many nights that we've spent talking about us and our future and I know I've been stalling but I can't anymore. Before today I hadn't put much thought to anything to do with the responsibility we've been given nor have I thought about us the way I should have. It was because I was afraid...I have never felt this way about anyone. With that being said...will you do this Knight the honor of becoming more than just a Queen...will you become my wife?" he asked. Kara placed a hand over her heart as it was beating so fast in her chest, "Bowen I have to admit that I was scared to ever let myself become close to anyone but now I can't deny my feelings for you anymore. I love you Bowen and I would be honored to be your wife...and Queen..." she replied. Bowen smiled as he reached into the pouch at his hip and produced a ring before placing it on Kara's finger. She looked at it briefly before Bowen stood up and kissed her tenderly with their friends rejoicing over their engagement, "congratulations Bowen...Kara," Skygazer said. "Well done Bowen..." Draco added gently slapping the Knight on the back. Brother Gilbert was all smiles as he had known of the two's feelings for some time but knew they had just been scared to open up, "congratulations Sir Knight...and to you too my child..." Kara smiled, "thank you Brother Gilbert." Bowen looked at Draco, "thank you both for giving us the confidence to do this." Draco smiled, "you're our friends Bowen we will always look out for you two." Brother Gilbert spoke, "I knew with time you two would make this decision and I have to say that I am truly happy for you both and I would be honored to perform the ceremony." "Thank you Brother Gilbert..." Bowen replied.

It was late in the evening and everyone was getting tired, "well as fun as this was catching up with y'all we need to get back to the cabin.." Skygazer said. Bowen looked at the young woman, "it's late and the roads are a bit rougher at night...you're more likely to run into trouble out there." "Perhaps but keeping in mind that I do have Draco with me so I won't be unprotected," Skygazer reasoned. "Maybe so but if the wrong person sees him things could go wrong and aside from all that he's not in his true form so there's only so much he could do to protect you," Bowen added. Draco then decided to speak, "while Bowen does have a point I am physically capable of protecting my intended, no matter what...but the only thing is that I am unable to breathe fire yet." Skygazer looked at her dragon before Kara spoke, "you know you two are welcome to stay the night here in the castle and return in the morning." "Hell with as much room as there is in this castle we can make you two a permanent resident here and we could certainly use Draco's help to protect the area just like he did before. Aside from that we could also help Draco regain his strength," Bowen added. Skygazer thought it over for the longest time before looking to her dragon, "Draco?" He glanced at her before looking back at the Knight, "I don't know about being a permanent resident here in the castle but we will at the very least stay the night." "Very well, come I'll show you where you can stay..." Kara said as she led them upstairs. As they walked Draco kept his hood up so the other people amongst the castle wouldn't become of aware of him. Skygazer kept her hand in the dragon's clawed-hand as they made their way to the room they would be staying in for the night. She also gazed around at all she saw in the halls of the castle, "this place is beautiful..." she commented. Kara smiled, "yeah it is but it wasn't always this way." "It makes a difference when there are good people who lives within it's walls..." Draco added. Kara nodded as she came to a stop in front of a doubledoor, "here we are...this room is yours and it will always be open to you two." "Thank you Kara..." Skygazer said before embracing the woman. "I hope you both rest well here..." Kara added before she walked away to let the pair turn in for the night.

Once they were in the room Skygazer closed the door behind her while Draco removed his cloak. When Skygazer turned around she saw Draco shake his head and flex his wings having kept them against his back the whole time. She smiled when he glanced her way, "what?" he asked. "Nothing...I just imagine that your wings are feeling better now that you've flexed them out after having them folded against your back the whole day," Skygazer said. Draco glanced over his shoulder to look at them before looking back at her, "yeah you're right...I haven't really been able to flex them out like I'd like to...I'm not sure if I can even fly in this form or if I'll only be able to fly in my dragon form." Skygazer nodded, "I guess there are only some things that you'll be able to do once we get back the our cave cabin." Draco nodded his head, "yeah..." was his only response as he removed the armor he been given by Aria. Skygazer watched Draco, "how comfortable is that armor that Aria gave you?" she asked. Draco turned his head around to look at his intended, "it's lighter than it looks but it's made from the same thing your armor is...dragonscales. My father..." he said. Hearing this made Skygazer's eyes widen slightly, "wow..." was her only response. Draco turned the armor around to show Skygazer a special feature, "this armor is made with open slits so my wings can rest comfortably against my back and not be restricted. That's why it's made where this part is fastened at the shoulder instead of at the waist where yours is so it can be pulled up beneath my wings," Draco explained. Skygazer nodded to let him know she had heard him. It was then that Draco stretched out completely which caused his wings to stretch out to their full length which also caused his tail spike to flex as well. At seeing all this in front of her Skygazer was somewhat mesmerized by the sight before her, she hadn't seen him stretch in this way since before the rebellion. Once he was fully relaxed, his wings rested back against his back and his tail spike closed once more. She smiled at him, "I bet it feels good to be able to fully stretch out like that...you haven't done that since before rebellion." A smirk played over his dragon lips, "yeah and it does feel good to stretch that way, lucky for me these rooms are large enough I can do that without disturbing anything," he said. Skygazer then walked over towards the bed and turned her back to her dragon as she removed her dragonscale armor leaving on only her soft under clothes. Draco took notice and watched her with his keen gaze as she removed her boots and got into bed. He looked down slightly then looked back at her, "I hope you rest well my Sky.." he said. She tilted her head slightly, "aren't you gonna lay next to me tonight?" she asked. Draco shook his head, "I think I'll lay here next to the fireplace besides I don't think that bed is designed with a dragon in this form in mind," he reasoned. Skygazer looked down slightly, "I suppose you're right..." she murmured. Draco then walked over to her and placed a gentle talon beneath her chin, "I promise I will be here when you awaken..." he said placing a tender kiss on her lips. She gave him a tired smile, "alright...goodnight Draco I love you." "I love you too my jewel.." he caressed her cheek carefully before she lay down and he placed the cover over her. He smiled at her before moving over towards the fireplace and laying down on the fur rug in front of it. Within a few moments Draco could tell that Skygazer had fallen asleep by her even breathing and he settled down into the soft rug, "not my first choice...but it's better than nothing..." he said to himself as he relaxed his wings against the floor and fell into a peacefully slumber.

In their room Bowen was sitting on the sofa that was near the fireplace staring into the flames, his thoughts running wildly in his head. Kara was snuggled under the covers and sleeping peacefully with a smile on her lips at being engaged to the Knight of the Old Code. Bowen was now realizing how much he and Kara took on with the decision they had made. He could still hear Draco's words ringing in his ears but he knew the dragon was right, he couldn't let his self doubt get in the way after everything he and Kara had done already. Even though he was feeling so much right now, he set all that aside so he could lay down and get some rest. He stood from his spot on the sofa, moved to the trunk at the end of the bed and removed his armor leaving on only his shirt and pants. Bowen then moved to lay down next to Kara and fell into a peaceful slumber.

The early morning came too soon but when the sun shone into in the window it shone onto a figure sleeping near the fireplace, "hmm it's too early..." the figure murmured as he shifted to lay facing the bed. When he opened his golden gaze he saw that Skygazer was still sleeping peacefully which made a smile play on his dragon lips. Draco felt so rested having been sleeping near the fireplace but when he went to get up he found that he wasn't in the same form he was in when he went to sleep. He looked down and saw that he was in a smaller version of his dragon self, a little larger than a draft horse. His eyes widened considerably, "how? How is this possible?" he said to himself. He carefully stood up, making sure not to disturb anything.

He looked down at his talons and then turned his head to look back at his dragon body and wings. He then carefully raised his tail and quietly opened his spike on his tail before closing it again. He was in a state of shock, not believing what he was seeing, "how did this happen in my sleep? And how do I return to the form that I was in last night?" He was unsure as to what to do but then he felt something deep within himself. He closed his golden eyes and focused...then he felt himself begin to change back into the form he was in the night before. When he opened his eyes once more he found himself back in the humanoid form. He sighed in relief that he was able to return to this form so he was able to travel with Skygazer and be less conspicuous and remain undetected by other people. He decided to grab his armor and place it back on before going out to sit on the balcony in the warm sunshine. Feeling the warmth from the morning sun, he felt so relaxed and it seem to clear his mind as well, just like it did back then, back before the rebellion. He breathed in the morning air and it made his lungs feel a way that it hadn't in a long time. When he slowly let the air out he felt a burning in the back of his throat which made him cough out a small puff of smoke. Once the feeling disappeared he sighed, "what is happening to me?" He began to feel a little nervousness race through his body, "I've never felt any of this before..." he said to himself.

Back in their room Skygazer was just starting to wake up and when she opened her eyes her gaze went straight to where Draco had been sleeping, "hmm...wonder where he is?" She then remembered that there was a balcony, "he must be outside..." she said getting out of bed and walking out onto the balcony. "There you are..." she said. Upon hearing her voice Draco turned to see Skygazer standing behind him, "good morning my Sky.." he greeted as he approached her and embraced her. She returned the embrace before placing a kiss on his lips, "did you sleep well?" he asked. "I should be asking you that, afterall you were the one sleeping on the floor in front of the fireplace," she replied. He looked down slightly before speaking, "I slept better than I thought I would." Skygazer could tell that something was up with her dragon, "Draco are you alright? Something seems to be bothering you?" she asked. Draco shook his head, "it's nothing my jewel..." he replied. Skygazer cocked an eyebrow at him but let it go for now as she returned to the room to retrieve her armor so they could prepare to return to their cabin. While Skygazer got ready Draco sat on the edge of the bed being mindful of his tail but he was silently wrestling with his thoughts about what had happened to him when he woke up, "at some point I need to tell her about this." He was brought out of his thoughts when Skygazer placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, "you ready?" she asked. He smiled and nodded, "alright let's go..." she said. Draco placed his cloak on as he stood and followed her out of the room and down the hallway that led to the main hall.

When they entered the room, they found Bowen, Kara and Brother Gilbert, "ah there you two are..." the monk said when the pair approached. "I hope you rested well last night," Kara said. Skygazer nodded as did Draco, "we did but we came to say goodbye...we must return to the cabin we can't risk anyone finding out about Draco." Bowen looked at them but noticed that the dragon was quietier than he normally was, "Draco..." The dragon seemed as though his mind was far away this morning, "hey dragon.." Hearing this seem to bring Draco back to reality, "huh..." The Knight gave the dragon a funny look, "where's your head at this morning? I've never known you to be so...uh...preoccupied." Draco looked down slightly before he spoke, "I guess I can't keep it hidden can I," he said. The four humans looked at Draco curiously, "what do you mean?" Kara asked. Draco sighed but when he did another puff of smoke escaped his lips which made them step back slightly, "what the..." Bowen was at a loss for words. Skygazer was equally surprised along with Kara and Brother Gilbert, she approached carefully, "Draco, whatever it is you can tell us." Draco hid his face in the hood of his cloak as he spoke, "this morning when I woke up...I wasn't in this form you see now, I was in a small version of my dragon form." Hearing this his human friends' eyes were wide, "what?" Bowen said. "How did that happen?" Kara asked. Brother Gilbert not knowing what to say merely looked between the pair and the dragon as Skygazer spoke, "why didn't you tell me when I asked you earlier?" she asked. "I wasn't sure if I should say anything because waking up to being in my dragon form made me nervous," Draco answered. Kara and Bowen looked at her before looking back at the dragon, "why does it make you nervous? Isn't that what you wanted? To be able to take your dragon form?" Bowen asked. Draco shook his head no, "when I take that form I want to do it at will...not wake up and be in that form," he said. Skygazer understood but she didn't know how to help her dragon and it was then that Bowen spoke, "Draco how about you stay here and I'll help you?" Draco looked at the Knight, "how could you help me? Aria told me that it was up to me when I take my dragon form and be able to use it as I once did but after what happened this morning I don't know how I can control it." "That's why I said I could help you, with me being a Knight I can help you learn...strengthening your will power and maybe be able to train your mind and help you learn how to control your transformations," Bowen said. Draco thought about the Knight's words before he spoke, "what about my fire? How do I go about training that part?" he asked.

There was silence for the longest time until the monk spoke, "how about at the church?" he asked. The dragon looked at him curiously, "huh why there?" he asked. Brother Gilbert just smiled, "there's a huge courtyard and there's no way you could destroy any of it. Plus there I can teach you how to meditate...to focus your mind which will also focus your body. It will help you be able to control your transformations," he reassured. Draco thought about it for the longest time and he knew they wanted to help him but he knew there were things that he had to figure out on his own. "I appreciate that you all want to help me but there's are things I need to learn for myself." The Knight knew there was only so much they could help him with so he understood what the dragon was saying, "well I can certainly understand that but if you do need help you know where to find us," Bowen said. Draco smiled, "I really do appreciate that Bowen...truly.." he said clasping arms with the Knight. Kara then turned to Skygazer, "I hope you will return to us when we are ready to be crowned as King and Queen, we would hate for you two to miss it." "I promise Kara we will return then..." Skygazer said embracing the red-haired woman. "Well we must be off...we will come back soon to see you..." Draco said. Bowen and Kara nodded as Brother Gilbert then stepped towards the dragon, "Draco..." the dragon's golden gaze turned to look at the monk which silently told him to continue. "I know that Sky is a strong and capable woman but you protect her...she is very dear to us and I have to admit," he glanced at the young woman, "that I look upon her as more than just a dear friend...I have no children so I look upon her as though she were my daughter." Hearing this surprised both Kara and Bowen but none more so than Skygazer, "so when you two are out there I want you to promise me that you will protect her," the monk said looking sternly at the dragon. Draco stood tall and looked Brother Gilbert squarely in the eye as he spoke, "I promise brother...I will protect her with my life...she's very dear to me and I intend to make her my mate one day." Upon hearing his words Brother Gilbert knew that Draco was sincere, "very well and when you do prepare to make her yours I will be honored to bind you two." Draco smiled, "I wouldn't have it any other way," he said extending his clawed-hand to the monk. Brother Gilbert looked down briefly before clasping the dragon's hand in his own and nodding. Skygazer then stepped up to stand beside her dragon, "come Draco..." she said. He nodded then turned to their friends, "we'll see you soon my friends." With that the pair turned on their heels and walked outside where their horse and small cart were waiting for them. Skygazer greeted her mare as she got into the saddle, "hey there girl...did you have a good rest?" She then turned to her dragon who was sitting in the cart, "are you ready to go my love?" she asked him. He nodded, "yes let us return to our home..." he said with a smile. She nodded and gave her mare a gently kick urging her forward, "let's go girl.." she said. With that they headed back towards Draco's cave and their cozy cabin.

It was right around sunset when they returned to their cave, "home..." Draco breathed. Skygazer glanced over her shoulder at him before urging her mare inside. Coming to a stop in front of her cabin Skygazer slipped from the saddle and led her mare around the side to remove the cart harness and saddle from her mare. Meanwhile Draco got out of the cart and removed his cloak to flex his wings, "ahh that feels better..." he said, stretching slightly. Skygazer smiled, "why don't you get comfortable while I see to my mare." He looked at her, "alright..." he said. "You can leave your armor on the sofa if you like, it won't be in the way there," she added as he disappeared from sight. Draco knew what she was saying and now in the cabin to remove his armor before returning outside but moving to be behind the cabin. He stood there for several moments as he focused himself, he took a breath and when he let it out slowly, a puff of smoke came out. His eyes glowed and a light began to emanate from his body as he began to transform. His body began to grow large and take on a more dragon-like shape. His wings spread wider than they had before and once the light faded he stood there in a smaller version of his dragon form. He stood there for several moments looking at himself as he had done that morning. What he hadn't noticed was that Skygazer was looking at him as she had become mesmerized at seeing him in that form again. She turned back to her task of brushing out her mare's coat, removing the dust and dirt from it, "there you go girl...I bet that feels good now doesn't it." She smiled and once she had finished grooming her mare she decided to fix the mare's mane up before placing her in her stall. She knew of the netted look for a horse's mane so she fixed her mare's mane that way, "there you go girl...you look even more beautiful." Once done she led the little mare to the stall that she had built long ago behind the cabin before removing the bridle. She hung the bridle on the post near where she kept the saddle before retrieving a bale of hay for her horse along with some fresh water that she caught in a barrel as it dripped from the ceiling of the cave.

Meanwhile Draco was stretching every inch of his dragon form as it felt good to do so again having been unable to earlier that morning. When Skygazer came back towards him she saw that he was laying on his stomach and relaxing his wings at his sides, "well someone is relaxed," she teased. He turned to see that she was standing behind him, "yeah I am it feels good to be in this form again even if it is smaller than it was back then." Skygazer came up beside him and placed a kiss on his dragon cheek, "it's good to see you so happy my love," she cooed. Draco nuzzled his muzzle against her small frame, "I am happy but it's more than just being able to take this form again...I am happy because I am here with you now and always. Never again will I ever leave you alone, I will remain by your side for the rest of my days," he said placing his clawed-hand on her back so he could hold her close. Skygazer had to admit she did like that his dragon form was smaller than it was back then, it certainly had some advantages but she was still worried that the wrong person would see him like this and come after him. Draco knew that Skygazer was worried but he knew how to go undetected but he would be careful for her sake.

It was then that Draco got an idea, "how would you like to go for a ride?" he asked. Hearing this caught her attention, "you mean you want to take me for a flight?" she asked. Draco nodded, "you use to tell me that you wanted to go for a flight one day..." he said. "I did say that..." she said. "With me being in a smaller form it'll be easier for you to ride on my back," he said. Skygazer then looked at his back then at him, "but what about your spines though?" He turned his head to see that she was right but then it hit him, "why not use your saddle?" he suggested. Skygazer cocked her head to the side, "are you sure? With your spines sticking up like they are the saddle won't sit comfortably on your back.." she reasoned. Draco knew she was right so he had to figure out something because he really wanted to take Skygazer for a flight. He thought about something he could do then a thought struck him, "I wonder..." he said to himself, "I wonder if I could lay my spines down so she could sit on my back?" He turned his head to look at his back, he knew that his spines were made of hard bone like his horns but maybe there was a slim chance he could flex them down. He closed his eyes to use what little magic he had been given when Aria had brought him back, and focused on it. As his eyes began to glow, his spines began to glow as well as they were forced to lay down against his back. When the glow faded he opened his eyes and he was pleased that it had worked, "there we are...I was able to lay my spines against my back so you can be able to go for a flight with me." Skygazer was amazed that Draco had been able to do that, "how are you able to do that?" she asked. "When Aria brought me back she gave me a small amount of magic to use as I saw fit. She also said that I'm the only one that can determine when it will become stronger," he explained. Skygazer nodded to let Draco know that she had heard him, he looked at her as he spoke, "now you will be able ride atop my back and fly with me.." he said as he caressed her cheek, being mindful of his claws. She placed her hand on his and nuzzled against it affectionately, "go ahead and get your saddle my Sky and I'll take you for a flight," he said gently. She smiled, "alright.." she replied as she retrieved the saddle and placed it on Draco's back. As she went to cinch the straps she spoke, "let me know if I get it too tight." Draco merely nodded as he watched her with his keen eyes while she adjust the straps for him. Once she had it set comfortably she placed her foot into the stirrup and got into the saddle. Now sitting atop her dragon she had to admit that it was a whole new experience for her and she felt her heart racing in her chest. She knew Draco could hear it with his hightened dragon hearing, "you ready?" he asked as he glanced over his shoulder at her. She looked at him, "yeah..." Draco looked at the sky, "let's go!" she cheered. "Alright...hang on..." he said as he ran to the entrance.

When he reached the entrance, he spread his wings and using his powerful leg muscles he pushed himself off the ground and flapped his wings to lift him into the air. Skygazer held tight to the saddle as the rush of air nearly threw her out of it. Draco flapped his wings to get high above the land so he could use the air current to glide and not have to use so much of his energy. Once he was high enough he was able to soar effortlessly through the sky, above the land he and Skygazer called home. He noticed she was quiet so he glanced over his shoulder at her, "what do you think my Sky? Being up here, high above the land below?" She was speechless for she was unsure of what to say, she felt the breeze flow through her hair and she closed her eyes for several moments as she felt as though she were floating. When she opened her eyes again she sighed contently as she spoke, "I never knew how exilerating it was to fly...I feel like I'm floating. To feel like nothing else exists below me..." she looked down at the land below, "to know what it looks like from up here...to share something so special with you...I couldn't be happier than I am right now." Draco smiled, "oh my Sky you do have a way with words, I've never really looked at it that way. For me it was just a way to travel from one place to another without anyone seeing me, but I never thought of it the way you did just now..." he chuckled, "it would seem that even with all the wisdom I have gained in all my years in this world, there are things that even I can still learn." She smiled at him and petted his neck as they continued to glide across the sky, "there are things I'm sure we both can learn..." she added. Skygazer wasn't sure how long they had flown and she didn't care, she was enjoying this time with her dragon. She also knew that she couldn't let Draco push himself too hard too fast for fear that he would become weak and something could happen to him. She looked down at the ground below and saw that they were near what appeared to be the ocean, "hey let's land for a bit so you can rest before he head back," she suggested. Draco thought about what she had said, "perhaps you're right besides I shouldn't try and push myself too hard too quickly," he replied as he began to make his descent towards the shoreline.

Skygazer watched as the land began to get closer and she prepared herself for the landing. She was pleasantly surprised how gently Draco was able to land but she was sure that it was partially because she was upon his back. She was sure if she hadn't been Draco wouldn't have been as careful. The dragon breathed in the smell of the salty sea air as he let it fill his senses, "ahh the smell of the sea air...there's something so calming about it," he said. She nodded, "it does have that effect on me too..." she said as she slipped from Draco's back. Once she stood next to him Draco folded his wings back against his sides and brought his head down to Skygazer's level, "how did you enjoy the flight?" he asked. She smiled, "I enjoyed it very much...I never felt so free..." she said taking a few steps away from Draco and twirling around in a circle. Draco couldn't help but chuckle at her antics, "she's such a free spirit...but that's why I was always so drawn to her..." he said to himself. When she stopped twirling she looked at him before approaching him, "here let me get this off of you..." she said. "Oh you don't have to do that Sky..." he went to protest but she wouldn't hear it. "Nonsense time for you to rest comfortably without having this saddle on," she said as she uncinched the straps to remove the saddle from the dragon's back.

Once she had the saddle removed Draco transformed into his humanoid form. She watched as her dragon began to transform, his eyes glowed brightly while his body began to get smaller, to take on a more human-like shape and his front legs became arms and hands. After a moment or two the glowing faded from Draco's eyes as he looked at himself to see that he had transformed back into his humanoid form. Although he was no longer wearing anything having left his armor back at the cabin so he could transform, thankfully nothing was visible because they were hidden within his body. With him standing before her, she noticed how the sun shone on his copper-scaled body, "even in this form he still shines in the sun's rays." Draco noticed that his intended had become quiet after he had transformed so when he turned his gaze towards her, he saw that she was admiring his body. He couldn't help but smirk, making his sharp teeth show slightly, "see anything you like my jewel?" he asked giving her a half-lidded look. Realizing she had been caught staring made a blush cover her cheeks. He smiled at her as she approached him, "how do you feel? Your body I mean?" she asked. "I feel fine, I don't feel drained at all, if anything I feel a surge of power racing through my body. I think this is how I become stronger...testing my body out, pushing myself so that I can get back up to full strength again and be the dragon I once was." Skygazer was happy about him learning how to use his body in the same way he use to but she couldn't help but worry a little, "just don't push yourself too hard my love...I don't want anything to happen to you." He knew how much she cared for him and how much she loved him. He knew he had to be careful when he was in his full dragon form, he didn't want to have any run-ins with any would-be dragonslayers trying to make a name for themselves. He wrapped his scaly arms around her waist before pressing his lips to hers, she was surprised by the action but quickly returned it. They kissed for several moments before letting go of it and when they did Draco locked his gaze with hers, there was silence for several moments before either of them spoke, "so beautiful..." he murmured as he ran his clawed-hand through Skygazer's hair and caressing her cheek as he did.

He then took hold of her hand and began to lead her along the shoreline to feel the sand beneath their feet. Draco had wanted to do this for so long with her, even back then, but back then things were different. There were other things that needed to be done but now that he had been returned to life he was free. He was free to live his life the way he wanted, to live a life the way he had always dreamed of. This was his second chance to also make a life with the woman he loved more than anything. He was so deep in thought that he hadn't noticed how far they had walked and only noticed when Skygazer came to a stop making him look at her, "what is it?" he asked. She kinda smirked, "I think that's a question I should be asking you...something on your mind?" she asked. He looked away slightly before locking his gaze with hers once more, "actually I was thinking about everything. From what happened back then all the way up to now and it made me realize that I have a second chance at being able to live the life I want to live...a life with you." Her face softened, "Draco..." she breathed. "It's true Sky, we truly have a chance at being together the way we always longed for. To be happy..." he said placing a kiss on her knuckles as he continued, "but I want to do this properly." Hearing this caught Skygazer's attention, "how do you mean?" she asked. "Well in the dragon custom we court our intended mates before consummating our relationship with the one we've chosen," he explained. "Consummate? You mean like by making love?" she asked. He shook his head no, "it's more to it than that...how can I put it so you will understand." He thought for several moments before speaking again, "in human custom a man courts a lady he is interested in before they become betrothed, he gives her a symbol of their love." "I think I'm getting what you're saying," she replied. "Alright well for us we court our intended mate and yes we do make love but there is a step before that. We give our intendeds a symbol of our bond, as a promise to be their mate and only theirs. It's what you call in your world an engagement or marriage," he finished. She was silent for a few moments before she spoke, "so do you mean that you wish to court me before we...marry?" she asked shyly. He smiled at her lovingly, "yes my Sky I know that we have already united our bodies sealing our physical bond but I wish to seal our bond of love...so that when we are wed, it will have been done properly." Skygazer thought over his words as she spoke, "let me ask you something." "Anything..." he said. "Back then...when you gave me those gifts, was that you courting me?" she asked. Draco's face softened, "it was...even though I knew what was going to happen in the end I still wanted to court you. To show you that I had love in my heart for you, I just wasn't sure if you understood what I was doing." As she thought back she had to admit now that she looked back on it, he truly had been courting her, "I did understand then as I do now...I know where your heart truly lies Draco...now and always..." she said as she pressed her lips to his in a kiss that was filled with all the love she had in her heart for him. He could feel it as he returned it with all the love he had for her as well to show how much she truly meant to him. When they let go of the kiss he spoke, "I love you my Sky as I have always loved you...with every beat that my dragonheart makes," he caressed her cheek lovingly as she placed her hand on his, nuzzling against it affectionately. "I love you too my sweet dragon as I have always loved you, with every fiber of my being," she replied. He smiled at her then noticed the sun's light was starting to fade, "come we should start heading back.." he said reluctantly. "Alright..." she replied as they walked back to where they had left the saddle.

When they reached the saddle Draco transformed back into his dragon form, his eyes glowed brightly as his body grew bigger, taking on a more dragon-like appearence and his wings stretched out further. After a moment or two he had returned to his dragon form, making sure that his back spines were layed down so Skygazer could place the saddle back on his back. He stood silently as she lifted the saddle onto his back and began to cinch the straps, "is that too tight?" she asked after fastening them. "No that's fine..." he replied as she placed her foot into the stirrup and lifted herself once more onto his back. Once he was sure she was settled he opened his wings and forced his powerful legs to push off the ground, propelling them into the air once more. This time however Draco couldn't control himself as a roar emanated from deep within his chest and filled the air around them. Skygazer was startled by this and had to cover her ears because it was so loud, "what's he doing? That was so loud...someone bound to have heard it," she said to herself. When Draco regained control of his senses he realized what he had done and he glanced over his shoulder to see Skygazer covering her ears. Seeing this made his eyes widen slightly, "that was very careless of me...anyone in the area would've heard that. We should hurry back to the cave before dark..." he told himself as he flapped his wings with more force propelling his body faster through the sky. Skygazer then felt a sudden burst of wind and when she opened her eyes she saw how fast Draco was flapping his wings, it was all she could do to hang on. She removed her hands from her ears but as she went to grab onto the saddlehorn Draco flapped his wings down with such force that the gust of wind made her start to slide from the saddle, "Draco what are you doing? Slow down...Draco..." she called but he hadn't heard her. He was deep in his thoughts and so focused on getting back to the cave quickly that he wasn't being as attentive as he should've been. As Skygazer tried to steady herself back in the saddle so she could lock her feet into the stirrups Draco brought his wings down harder than before which caused a larger gust of wind to rush past Skygazer and jolt her from the saddle. Her eyes widened considerably as she fell from Draco's back and began to plummet downward. She was terrified and she called out to her dragon, "Draco! Draco! DRACO!" Upon hearing her scream he looked at his back expecting to see her there but when he didn't he became very alarmed, "Sky!" he called. "DRACO!" she screamed. When she called out this time he was horrified to see her falling, "no SKY! I'M COMING!" he shouted as he dove down like a torpedo. Time seemed to move in slow motion for Skygazer as she tried to reach out to her dragon, "please my love...get to me in time..." Draco was putting every bit of strength he had into his wings to try and get to Skygazer before it was too late, "hang on Sky!" he called. With one final thrust of his wings he sped up enough to reach Skygazer and wrap his arms around her as she wrapped hers around him as best she could. She clung to him as if he were her lifeline because right now he was, he was the only thing keeping her from plummeting to her death.

They were about half way between the ocean and their cave home so Draco decided to find somewhere to land for a moment or two to make sure Skygazer was alright. Skygazer clung to Draco as she was still shaken after having fallen from his back. Draco spotted a high cliff and decided to land there but this time he held Skygazer close to his body as he did. Once he had landed on the cliff he sat her on her feet, "my Sky...are you alright?" he asked, his voice filled with concern as he nuzzled her gently. Skygazer couldn't look at him right now as she stared at her hands as they continued to shake uncontrollably. "What's happening to me?" she asked but she didn't have the chance to answer Draco as her head began to spin and her vision went black. If Draco hadn't reacted so quickly he was sure she would've hit her head on the ground, "Sky!" he cried out as he held her close to him. He cradled her head in his clawed-hand while he held her body in his arms, "oh come on my Sky don't you give up on me now." He looked at her face and noticed how pale she was, "what am I gonna do?" he said to himself. He then spotted a nearby overhang, "it's not a cave but it will do..." he said as he brought her over to it in one arm, supporting himself on three legs.

When he reached the overhang he placed her down gently before glancing around for firewood and something to make a temperary bed out of. He started to transform back into his humanoid form but then realized that he was still wearing the saddle and Skygazer was the only one who could remove it when he was in this form. So with no choice but to stay in this form he looked around the overhang to locate what he needed. After several minutes he spotted some high grass similar to what he use to use for his bedding back before the rebellion, "this will work." He picked as much as he could before making his way back to place it down to make it into a bed for Skygazer to rest on. Once satisfied with the bedding he gently picked Skygazer up and brought her over to it so he could place her down, "there you are my jewel...you rest here now..." he murmured. He caressed her cheek briefly before turning his attention to other tasks, "now for some firewood..." he said. In no time at all he had retrieved the firewood, "now to light it..." he said. He wasn't sure if he could breath fire yet but he had to try otherwise Skygazer would freeze. So he consentrated his mind as he got the sense of his fire lung, he breathed in deep until he felt the burning in the back of his throat. He opened his eyes and let his breath out through his nose and when he did his fire lung opened up and caused flames to expel from his nostrils. He breathed out for a minute or two before the wood caught fire, "there we go..." he said to himself. Once the wood was burning Draco glanced over at Skygazer before looking back at the flames that flickered in front of him, "how could I be so careless...I nearly got her killed.." he thought to himself, "I'm suppose to protect her and I almost killed her. How good of a mate can I be to her if I'm the one that puts her in danger?" His thoughts ran wildly in his mind as he once more turned his gaze to the woman that held his heart. He made sure the area was safe for them before he made his way over to her side to bed up next to her. When he laid down he was very aware of her being near him so he was being very careful. Now comfortably bedded up next to her he draped his wing over her slightly, he wanted her to feel the warmth from the fire. He lay his head down near her so he could keep a close eye on her while she slept. The overhang was similar to his cave, it was sheltered but it wasn't very deep, it was half-circle shaped so it was perfect for keeping the warmth around them. It was somewhat out of the wind but with Draco laying opposite of Skygazer he was able to keep the wind off her. She was somewhat situated near the wall but not right up against it, so if need be Draco could lay behind her and use his bodyheat to keep her warm. After the long day Draco felt himself start to drift off, "I'm so tired..." he murmured as he fell into darkness, "my Sky..." he murmured.

It was early in the morning and the sun was just starting to rise into the sky, when it did it shown onto a sleeping form laying beside a dead fire. She slowly began to come back to consciousness, "mmh..." she slowly opened her eyes and at first her vision was blurry so she brought her hands up to rub them slightly in hopes of making her vision clear up. After a moment or two it began to clear and she was able to see where she was. She starred up at the rock ceiling above her, "huh...where am I?" she murmured. She then became aware that she was laying on something, "what the..." she used her fingertips to feel what was beneath her, "what am I laying on?" She clasped her hand onto what she was laying on and brought it into her line of sight, "...grass?" She then turned her head to look next to her to see Draco, still in his small dragon form, sleeping peacefully beside her with his wing draped over her. A smile played on her lips as she slowly sat up and glanced around at her surroundings for an instant, "I'm not sure of where we are but I'm guessing that we're half-way between where we were yesterday and home." She then noticed the firepit a few feet away, "guess he's able to use his fire breath now." She moved closer to Draco and leaned against his shoulder but still remained beneath his wing for warmth, "wonder how long we've been here?" She thought back for a few minutes before remembering the events of yesterday, "oh yeah...I fell from the saddle while we were flying. I wonder what was up with Draco yesterday? Was he just feeling himself and got carried away or is he losing control of his dragon strength?"

Her thoughts were interrupted when she felt Draco shifting himself slightly before opening his eyes and letting out a yawn, which sounded more like a growl to her. She stayed still to allow him to get fully woken up before she moved, "morning Draco..." she greeted. Upon hearing her voice he looked at his side to see her snuggled against him, "Sky..." he whispered. She smiled at him, "it's me baby..." she said. He carefully shifted so he could place an arm around her so she was sitting between his front legs and he was able to hold her close to him. She nuzzled against the spot where his heart was before placing a kiss there, "I'm so glad you're alright my Sky..." he said, his voice laced with relief. Draco nuzzled against her cheek with his muzzle as he spoke, "my Sky I am so sorry for what happened yesterday...I don't know what I was thinking..." Skygazer smiled, "it's ok Draco I forgive you, it was an accident." "But I was so careless, I should've been more careful." She knew he was apologetic, "darling really it's ok..." she said. Draco shook his head, "but it's not I nearly got you killed...and if anything ever happened to you I would never...be able to forgive myself..." he replied as his voice wavered. Skygazer was surprised, she had never heard his voice like that before. She stood from her place so she could look him in the face but when she did, she couldn't believe what she was seeing, "Draco are...are you..." in all the years she had been around him she had never once seen him like this, "are you crying?" she asked. Draco turned his head away from her slightly and refused to meet her gaze. "Draco..." she said. He was ashamed of what he had done and the thought of what could've happened scared him to no end and broke his heart. Finally Skygazer placed her hand on either side of his face so that he would meet her gaze, "Draco...what's wrong?" she asked. At hearing her concern for him, he couldn't hold back anymore and his tears fell, "oh my Sky I'm ashamed...ashamed of what I've done, I never should've been so reckless when I was flying. I know better than to use that kind of force with you on my back. But I was so focused on getting us back to the cave and to get away from there I wasn't thinking. Just like I wasn't thinking when I roared when I launched us into the air so we could get back home. I don't know what came over me yesterday..." he said. Skygazer opened her arms to him so he could place his head into her embrace, even though he was only slightly larger than a draft horse right now she still did her best to offer him the comfort of her loving arms. He rested his head against her stomach while she kept her arms around him, "shh shh...it's alright Draco I'm alright...nothing will ever happen to me because I know you won't let it, you will always protect me." Her voice was so calm, so gentle, Draco could hear the love in her voice and knew that she wasn't angry with him for what happened yesterday. "She's so kind to me, even now...even after what happened yesterday..." he said to himself. As the last few tears rolled down his cheeks he slowly raised his head up to look at her. She smiled at him as she pressed her lips to his in a tender kiss, which caught Draco off guard a little but he returned it. When they let go of it she spoke, "shall we go home now?" she asked. He merely nodded as he stood up and walked out from under the rock overhang that they had been under all night. Skygazer came to Draco's side, placed her foot into the stirrup and lifted herself into the saddle, making sure to lock her feet into both stirrups, "let's go..." she said. With that Draco opened his wings and using his powerful leg muscles, forced them off the ground and into the air once more as they headed towards home.

As they flew towards their cave Skygazer looked at the scenery around her and below her but her mind was also on everything that had happened. Even though she had fallen from Draco's back yesterday that wasn't what was on her mind. She was more concerned about what was going on with Draco. She wasn't sure what was happening to him but she knew they had to figure it out and find a way for him to control it. Draco was thinking about it too, he was trying to understand what was happening to him. He couldn't help but think back to what Aria had told him after she had brought him back:

Memory:

He remembered what it felt like when he first woke up laying on the table she had in the back room of her hut. He didn't know where he was but as he focused his senses he noticed Aria standing next to him. "Easy little one...take your time before you try to stand," she said. Draco looked at her, "where am I?" he asked, his voice sounding very hoarse. "You're in my hut, you've been brought back to the land of the living." "What?" he said. "Yes it is true..." she said. "Why?" he asked. She smiled gently at him as she placed her hand on his shoulder, "there is a young woman that has been wanting to see you again." Upon hearing this, it caught his attention, "a young woman?" "Yes, this young lady has been longing for this day for so long...her heart broke when you died," Aria said. He was silent for a few moments, "Sky..." he sighed. Aria smiled as he continued to speak, "I know how much it hurt her that night and I didn't want to leave her but...at the time I had to. It was the only way to stop..." he couldn't say the name. Aria understood, "you needn't explain it to me little one for I know all too well who you are referring to. I will say though that it is good to have you back young dragon." He looked her square in the eye, "you called me young dragon but you look like a wise elder." She merely laughed, "I may look that way but looks can be decieving...this is merely the form I choose to be in, a bit less conspicuous." "Who are you?" he asked. "I am Aria...I am a sorceress and have been looking after your kind for several hundred years. I still remember when you were a mere hatchling," she explained. Hearing this made Draco sit up slightly and brace himself up on his elbows, "a sorceress? Several hundred years?" He looked at her, "wait a minute...it's coming back a little bit, I can't believe that your still in this area. I thought that you would've moved on long before now." "I couldn't leave this place, it meant too much to me," then she changed the subject, "I'm sure you've noticed by now that you're not in the form that you were before but in time you will be able to return to that form. However you are the only one that can determine when you are able to do that." "What do you mean?" he asked. "Right now your strength isn't what it once was but you need to train your body as well as your mind so you'll be able to transform yourself into your full dragon form but you must be careful. You cannot push yourself too hard, too fast. When I brought you back I infused a bit of magic into you that you can tap into when you need it but you must use it wisely otherwise, you will be left weakened and vulnerable." Draco was silent for the longest time, "how do I tap into this magic?" he asked. "You must clear your mind and focus your senses, only then will your eyes begin to glow and you'll be able to use the magic. As you become stronger the magic within you will become stronger but there's more to it than just that. Your dragon strength will also become stronger with time as you use it as well," she explained. "When will I be able to fly again?" he asked. "Once you're able to take your full dragon form...but do not rush to use your fire too fast otherwise you won't be able to control it and your dragon instincts will take over and you won't be able to do anything about it. Which not only puts you in danger but her as well," Aria said. Draco was silent for the longest time as he thought about everything Aria was telling him and he knew that if he ever unintentionally hurt Skygazer, it would kill him.

End of Memory:

Draco knew there would be time to talk about everything on his mind but right now he had to focus on getting them back to their cave cabin. Skygazer had noticed how quiet Draco had been the entire flight but she knew why, "there are things we definitely need to talk about...once we get back home." This time though Skygazer was able to enjoy the flight, being able to look at all the land below them. For now she let herself relax the rest of the way back to their cave as she let a content sigh pass through her lips, "*sigh* so peaceful..." she breathed. Draco too was trying to relax the rest of the way back and knew that at some point they were gonna have to talk about things, "Sky look there..." he said. She looked where he was pointing, "I see..." she said, "nearly home." Draco began to make his descent as Skygazer steadied herself in the saddle but as they got closer to their cave they noticed something below them, "Draco look..." she said. Using his keen dragon sight he noticed a horse and rider at the entrance of their cave, "who could that be?" he said. After circling for a moment or two Draco recognized the horse, "it's Bowen." Skygazer was surprised, "what's he doing here? Do you think something has happened?" she asked. "I don't know but we need to see what's going on..." he then began flying lower, "Bowen!" he called out.

On the ground the Knight looked up to see his only dragon friend above him, "well I'll be..." he said, "look at you Draco." The dragon couldn't help but smile as he landed just in front of the Knight, "well I thought it was time to take Sky on a flight." Bowen nodded his head, "well at least her flight with you was better than the one I took with you..." he laughed. Draco couldn't help but laugh as did Skygazer as she remembered what she had seen that day. Skygazer then turned her attention to Bowen, "so what do we owe the pleasure of this surprise visit?" she asked. Bowen looked down slightly, "well something has come up," he let a frustrated sigh escape his lips, "we've just gotten word that there has been another dragon spotted up north." This caught Draco's attention, "what?" "Another dragon?" Skygazer said. "Yeah but right now it's a rumor although people have heard what sounds like roars in the night," Bowen explained. Draco thought for the longest time as he considered what could be going on, "are people sure it's a dragon and not a bear? They do like being up north..." Skygazer asked. "They do but no one really knows for sure..." the Knight replied. Draco looked squarely in the Knight's eye, "what do you want to do about it?" he asked. Bowen thought for a moment or two before he spoke, "we need to check this out...that area is part of our territory and we need to protect the people from whatever it could be, especially if it is a dragon that isn't like you Draco." The dragon knew what the Knight meant with his words, "I know...I still remember when I was young that there were some of my kind that only saw humans as food and only meant to terrorize them." "How do we get there?" Bowen asked. It was Draco who answered, "we fly..." Bowen looked at the dragon, "what?" "I'll get us there, I can cover a lot more ground quicker than a horse," he reasoned. Bowen was a little apprehensive about that concept, "I don't know..." he said. "Don't worry Bowen this time you'll be on my back with Sky," he replied. "How am I gonna hang on?" then he noticed the saddle, "Sky did you really put your horse saddle on Draco's back? How did you manage that?" he asked. She laughed, "well it wasn't easy Draco had to force his back spines down so I could put the saddle on his back." The Knight cocked an eyebrow, "how is that even possible? Those spines are solid bone." "I can explain...when Aria brought me back to life she infused some of her magic into me to use until I'm back to full strength. It's the same way I can transform between this form and my humanoid one. I was able to tap into that magic and made my spines lay down against my back so she could put the saddle on," Draco explained. Bowen was silent for a few minutes, "well let's get ready to go..." he said. "Alright, you can put your stallion in the stall next to my mare," Skygazer said. "Thanks Sky.." he said making his way over to the stall near the cabin. "There you go boy you can rest here while I'm gone..." he said as he removed the saddle. Draco then decided to speak, "Sky we may need to gather some provisions...who knows how long we'll be away." She smiled, "alright honey..." she replied as she dismounted from Draco's back and made her way into the cabin to gather some food, water and his armor and weapon.

Draco decided to lay down to rest his legs for a moment while he waited for the two humans to come back. A few moments later Bowen approached, having made sure his stallion was comfortable in the stall. He also grabbed his belongings from his saddle and placed them on the saddle horn of Skygazer's saddle. Draco knew that Bowen's experiences with flying hadn't been too pleasant, at least the first one. The second time Draco had picked up Bowen's horse with Bowen, Kara and Brother Gilbert aboard. He still remembered what it was like to be on Avalon, feeling so close to a time long forgotten. He was brought out of his thoughts when Bowen's voice reached his ears, "so how have you been doing with your training?" he asked. Draco looked down slightly, "honestly I'm worried I can't control my dragon strength yet." "Why would you say that?" asked the Knight. "Well yesterday when we left for a flight everything went good but when we took off to come back here...I don't know somehow I couldn't hold back and I...I roared so loud that Sky had to cover her ears and not only that but I'm sure that anyone in that area heard that too. Plus...I nearly got Sky killed...I was so focused on getting back here I wasn't being as attentive as I should've been. I was using all my dragon strength in my wings to push my body faster through the air. The large gust of wind coming off my wings made Sky fall off my back and I had to dive as fast as I could to reach her in time. When I managed to catch her I got us to a cliffside with a sheltered overhang. When I set her on her feet she passed out and was unconscious through the night." "I guess the after effects of falling that far down caught up with her once her feet were planted on solid ground," Bowen reasoned. "Yeah I suppose, but still I don't know what to do Bowen...if I'm really starting to lose control of my dragon strength, I'm worried about what will happen to Sky if I do. I don't want to end up hurting her...or worse..." he said. Bowen was sympathetic, "now you listen to me...in all the time I've known you, you've never backed down from anything so don't you start now." Draco knew that the Knight was right, "but how can I gain control over it? And without ending up hurting my Sky?" he asked. The Knight placed a hand on Draco's shoulder, "I can train you the same way I train my students with the sword, the only difference is that it will be more physical training...with the body and the mind." Draco was about to speak again until he noticed Skygazer come back outside with a satchel over her shoulder and wearing the armor her dragon had made her long ago, "so are we ready to go?" she asked. Upon seeing her clad in her armor it brought a smile to his dragon face and it pleased him to see her wearing it once more, "you're wearing the armor I made for you..." he said. "Of course...who knows what we'll encounter on this adventure. What better way to be protected than with the armor my sweet dragon made for me," she replied walking over and kissing him on the muzzle. "You made her that?" Bowen asked as he lifted the satchel from Skygazer and placed it over Draco's back and attached it to Skygazer's saddle. "Yeah I made that for her not long after we met," Draco replied. Bowen was impressed, "I'm jealous.." he replied playfully. Skygazer laughed as she got into the saddle then turned to Bowen, "come on..." she said. Bowen took a breath then placed his foot into the stirrup and lifted himself onto Draco's back, "whoa...this is a different feeling.." he said. Draco smirked, "just hang on and you'll be fine..." he said as he stood up. Skygazer locked her feet into the stirrups and held to the saddlehorn as Draco spread his wings and propelled his legs to push off the ground and into the sky.

Once they were up in the air Skygazer was able to relax a little bit as she felt Draco begin to glide on the air current, "it's so peaceful up here..." she breathed. The Knight had been silent since they took off and Draco couldn't help but notice, "you're awfully quiet up there Bowen." Bowen was silent for a moment before he spoke, "it's just that being up here is a lot different than I thought it would be." Skygazer smiled, "yeah I know the feeling but I do enjoy being up here...I feel so free, like we're the only ones in the world." Bowen had to chuckle at her comment, "I use to think about things like that in my youth but after an incident long ago, I started looking at things differently." Draco knew what Bowen meant, "I can relate to that but after meeting Sky...I started to see things the way she does. She helped me understand and help to open my mind to what was out there." Bowen smiled, "she's a unique lady..." he complimented which made Skygazer smile. "So how far have we gotta go?" she asked. It was Bowen who answered, "there's a village in the mountains...that's where the reports are coming from." "Who's in charge there?" Draco asked. "No one to my knowledge...the people have always looked after themselves and feel they don't need a King or anyone to look to. It's been that way for many generations..." Bowen answered. "I wonder if that will make it more difficult getting them to talk to us or letting us help them," Skygazer said. "It probably will..." Bowen said. "Well they have no choice in the matter, we have to find out if there is another dragon or if it's only a bear they're dealing with," Draco said as they continued.

High up in the mountains they travelled until they spotted what looked like a village in the distance, "look down there..." Skygazer said. Hearing this both the Knight and the dragon looked in the direction she was pointing, "yeah that's a village alright..." Draco said. "Wonder if it's the one we're looking for?" Skygazer wondered. Bowen looked at her briefly before looking back at the village below them, "it's a stong possiblity...the question now is how we are gonna approach it especially with Draco in this form." Draco wasn't sure, "I won't be able to accompany you in this form...if I had my armor and cloak I would be able to." It was then that Skygazer spoke, "not to worry darling I brought your armor and cloak with me in our pack...I knew we might need your skills." Draco had to give a toothy grin, "clever girl..." he said. She could only smile as Draco turned away from the village in order to find them shelter. "Where are we going?" Bowen asked. "We need a spot to set up camp and besides...if I'm gonna be able to transform we need to remove the saddle first and unload our gear," Draco replied. Bowen felt that, that made sense as he watched Draco direct them towards a grove of trees situated near a mountainside. Once he got to where he could see clearly Draco made his descent towards what looked like a cave, "we're gonna land there..." he said. Skygazer locked her feet into the stirrups and braced herself for the landing while Bowen held onto the back of the saddle. Much to his surprise Draco landed gently so as not to jolt his two riders. Skygazer was the first to slip from her dragon's back before Bowen followed suit and grabbed the saddlebag and satchel from the saddle. As he did that task Skygazer busied herself with uncinching the saddle from Draco's back as he had been wearing it for two days straight so she knew his back was either tired or sore from it. When Draco felt the cinching straps release from around his body he was able to take a deep breath and relax, "there you go baby...I know that feels better.." she said as she brought the saddle over to the sheltered overhang. Draco was able to fully stretch his dragon body and wings before he lay down in the warm sun to rest.

Skygazer and Bowen set up a comfortable little camp while their dragon companion rested. After they were done Skygazer and Bowen had time to talk, "so tell me...how are things going with him?" Bowen asked. Skygazer glanced over at her now sleeping dragon before looking back at the Knight, "in all honesty I don't really know and it worries me because I don't know if or how I can help him. I know Aria told me that it would take time for him to be at full strength again but I'm just noticing things that make me think some of it he can't control." Bowen nodded, "yeah he told me that you fell from his back yesterday on your way back home." "Yeah I did and I blacked out after we landed on a cliff and was out for the whole night. When I woke up this morning and we talked he just broke down...right in front of me. I've never seen him do that...not in all the time I've known him," Skygazer replied. Bowen let her words sink in before he spoke, "I know Draco and I know he feels terrible about what happened. He would never intentionally do anything to hurt you because he loves you." She looked over at her dragon, "I know he does and I love him more than anything in this world...I mean I'm the only reason he was brought back." She then turned back to look at the Knight, "for the longest time after the rebellion...I was so alone and lonely and I just couldn't take it anymore. I thought about ending it so many times just so I could be with him again...life without him was unbearable." Bowen was surprised by her statement, "wow I never took you for the type of woman to take her own life, I thought you were stronger than that." Skygazer didn't take offense to his words, "at the time I wasn't strong enough not to attempt it...it just hurt so much and I felt like a part of me died when he did." Bowen then became very serious because Skygazer had never really opened up to anyone the way she was to him right now, the only one she had told was Draco the evening he had been brought back to her. "I understand that pain, althought it was a different kind, I beat myself up for so long after that night. I had nightmares...and I felt so much guilt because it was me who had rallied the people together with Kara and Draco to overthrow Einon. I was also angry because if I had just let Einon die when he was injured then I wouldn't have had to slay Draco and none of it would've ever happened," Bowen said. Skygazer was silent for the longest time until he broke the silence once more, "you know though..." she looked at the Knight, "if we hadn't met at all then we'd all be a lot worse off and we wouldn't have become friends." Skygazer had to smile at that, "I suppose you're right there...before coming across Draco's cave I was always on my own and had been ever since I was sixteen. Living off the land and sleeping where I could. Then one day a storm came and I became lost in it, I don't know how long I wandered in that storm but I was completely drenched from head to toe. When I came across his cave I went straight inside without even considering either he or something else was even in there, all I wanted was to get out of the storm." "Were you always so fearless?" Bowen asked. Skygazer laughed, "yeah I was...anyway I huddled against the cave wall to wait out the storm but I couldn't get warm because everything I had on was completely drenched from the rain, my cloak included." "I know that was a miserable night for you," he said. "It was and I must've passed out because the next thing I remember from that day was waking up to a warm fire and a fat rabbit roasting on a stick," she said. Bowen had to laugh at that, "I can only imagine the look you had on your face." "It was one of complete shock so after eating what I could of the rabbit I went exploring the cave and eventually found the heat pools. When I came across Draco sleeping on his bedding in the back of the cave, he had been watching over me the whole night." "Seems you've always had a close bond with him then if he took care of you the night you took shelter in his cave," Bowen said. Skygazer's face softened, "yeah we have, he's always been so good to me, from making me the armor I'm wearing to giving me gifts like this rose quartz charm I always wear," she replied as she showed it to Bowen. The Knight had to chuckle, "to be honest...I'm a little jealous.." Skygazer looked at the Knight, "of your relationship with Draco, I mean I know you've known him longer than me but that's not what I meant. I mean the romantic relationship you share with him. You two have a bond I could never have with Kara, even though we're engaged to be married." Skygazer was sympathetic, "you won't unless you two spend time together and talk about things." "What do you mean?" he asked. "I mean you talk about things that interest you two and everything in between so you can learn everything about each other. That way your bond can get stronger with her," Skygazer explained.

Beside the overhang Draco slept peacefully in the warm sun having not slept well the night before. The sun seem to be bringing back his strength and when he awoke he turned his head slightly to see Skygazer and Bowen talking. "It's good to see that they still get along..." he said to himself as he stood up and stretched his dragon body and wings out before transforming back into his humanoid form unaware that the two humans were watching him. Draco's eyes glowed brightly as his body began to get smaller, taking on a more human-like shape and large spines retracted to their smaller size on his back as did his wings and tail. Still sitting where they had been Bowen was mesmerized, "wow...so that's what it looks like when he transforms." Skygazer nodded and smiled, "yes...it is something to see..." she added. When Draco opened his golden eyes the glow faded and he stood there in his humanoid form. He looked at himself briefly before turning to look at Skygazer, "did you have a nice rest darling?" she asked. "Yes I did, I feel more like myself again...all that flying took more out of me than I thought," Draco said as he came over to kiss Skygazer briefly. "You should really eat something then to replenish your strength," she replied when they let go of the kiss. "Perhaps I will, you said my armor is in our pack?" he asked. "Yeah it's leaning against my saddle," she replied. "Ok..." he said walking over to the saddle and retrieving his armor so he could get dressed. It didn't take long for him to get dressed and return with his sword strapped at his hip and his cloak around his shoulders. Bowen had been sharpening his blade when the dragon returned and spoke when he heard him approach, "you know if it weren't for the horns, wings and tail, you could probably pass for a human with really dark skin," he teased. "Ha ha..." was Draco's only response as he sat next to Skygazer who rested her head on his shoulder. "So what's the plan?" Skygazer asked Bowen. "I've been thinking about that and I wonder if maybe we should do a bit of scouting before we try and talk to the villagers. Besides they may be hostile to outsiders," he replied. "That might be a good idea, get a lay of the land so we know what we're getting into," Draco added. Skygazer knew that her dragon liked to be aware of his surroundings, it was just his way of feeling comfortable in an area. "Where should we start?" Bowen asked. Just as Draco was about to answer there was a sound below them, "hey wait a minute...what is that?" he said as he stood up from where he had been sitting. Being human neither Skygazer nor Bowen had heard anything that is until the sound of yelling rose into the air, "hey something is going on..." Skygazer said. "Yeah we better have a look..." Bowen said. "And quickly..." Draco added as he took off in the direction of the sounds with Skygazer and Bowen right behind him.

Down in the village people were running frantically, women and children were cowaring behind buildings and wagons to try and stay out of sight. "Dragon!" several people called out as they ran for cover. A few of the men grabbed pitchforks and tried to defend themselves from the beast but it was no use the dragon was too strong. He flung the men around like ragdolls and burned the houses. A woman cradling an infant looked up to the sky as if to ask for a miracle, "please send us someone that will protect us from this beast so that my children can grow up safe and happy..." she pleaded.

When the trio topped the hill they saw it was indeed a dragon attacking the village, "I don't believe it..." Skygazer said. "I thought they were all wiped out..." Bowen added but then the pair noticed how quiet Draco had become after seeing the dragon below them. Skygazer saw him visibly shaking and smoke began to billow from his nostrils, "Draco..." Skygazer said as she cautiously placed her hand on the dragon's shoulder. "I know him..." he murmured, "what?" Bowen asked. "I know the dragon that attacks this village...he grew up with me and other hatchlings of our clan. He was orphaned because like most of my kind, his parents were killed, slain by dragonslayers." "What happened?" Skygazer asked. Draco looked at her briefly before looking back at the dragon below them, "he betrayed us...he led a group of dragonslayers right to us, showing them where we were all hiding. Fortunately for us youngsters Aria was taking care of us and protected us. She's the reason why we can make ourselves look like rocks so that we can hide. He didn't know where she kept us hidden," he explained. "What's his name?" Bowen asked. "He's called Vuljotnaak...he's a dragon that has always seen humans as either food or to be used for our own amusement, or as servants. He's cruel to everyone, even to his own kind...he cares only for himself and no one else. I swore to myself long ago that I would hunt him down and kill him with my own jaws but he disappeared before I could. But now I have my chance to avenge my kind and end his evil once and for all," Draco said. There was silence for a moment or two before either one of the humans spoke, "what do you want us to do Draco?" Bowen asked. He turned to the Knight, "I want you and Sky to gather the villagers and move into one of the barns, keep them safe while I deal with Vuljotnaak." "Alright," Bowen said as they stood up. Before making their way down the hill Skygazer spoke, "my love..." the dragon made his golden gaze meet her sky-blue one, "please be careful...don't push yourself too hard in this fight, I don't want anything to happen to you." His hardened face had softened at the mere sound of her voice, he placed a glove-clad clawed-hand on her cheek to caress it lovingly, "I promise I will be careful..." he said as she nuzzled his palm before he pressed his lips to hers in a tender kiss. When they let go of it Draco turned to look at Bowen, "let's go..." "Right.." he said as they ran down the hill towards the burning village.

Down in the village the same woman who had asked for helped looked up at the sky once more but this time when she did, she caught sight of three figures running down the hillside and heading straight for the village, "look the gods have sent us help!" she called out. Upon hearing this several villagers looked in the direction she was pointing and saw three figures approaching the village as fast as they could. "Praise be..." called an elder who hid behind a wagon. Once the three entered the village Draco made a bee-line for Vuljotnaak while Bowen and Skygazer saw to the villagers, "come everyone...we must get you all to safety." "Yes into the barn quickly now!" Bowen called. Not knowing what else to do the villagers scrambled to a barn that still stood, each helping the other to take shelter inside. "Is that everyone?" Skygazer asked. "Yes...thank you..." said a young woman who held her infant in her arms. "Who are you?" asked the elder. "We've come to help you with your dragon problem," Bowen replied. It was then that a young girl spoke, "hey wait what about him?" she asked pointing at Draco. Skygazer knelt down to the little girl's level as she spoke, "he's gonna help by dealing with that dragon little one...you stay in here near your mom ok." "Ok..." said the little girl as she sat by her mother who held her infant sister.

Outside Draco was standing below where Vuljotnaak was circling overhead, "VULJOTNAAK! COME DOWN HERE AND FACE ME!" he roared, his eyes glowing slightly. Hearing someone call him by name made him stop in mid-flight, "who dares to speak to me that way?" he boomed. "Look down here you traitor!" Draco replied all the while glaring at him. Vuljotnaak looked down at the cloaked figure below him, "I know that voice..." as he locked eyes with Draco he spoke, "oh so it's you...well look at this, the little dragon has gone to the side with the humans, how pathetic..." he sneered. Draco's anger rose into his chest at these words, "you've gone mad if you think I've gotten weaker just because I'm in this form...you are sorely mistaken..." he roared. "Ha ha ha...you do not scare me you pathetic excuse for a dragon you couldn't take me when we were young and you still can't now!" Vuljotnaak taunted. Draco's eyes began to glow brightly but instead of transforming, his hand began to glow, he drew his sword and as he did so it too began to glow brightly into an almost blinding light.

Back in the barn there were whispers amongst the villagers that were taking shelter there, "he's a dragon?" said one man. "And he's protecting us?" said another. The young woman with her two young children spoke, "I guess not all dragons are evil...some are our protectors." Both Skygazer and Bowen mentally sighed because they weren't sure how the villagers would react to Draco once they found out what he was.

Draco summoned his strength as he made his blade turn to fire, "come and face me...unless you think you can't!" he boomed. Vuljotnaak rolled his eyes at the taunt, "please is that all you can do?" he asked. "Only a cold weak dragon chooses to terrorize humans and burn their villages to the ground. You think it's weakness to protect humans and show them kindness, but it takes a dragon with a pure heart to protect them as our kind were always meant to. I choose to protect people like them because they have no one else who will stand up for them. I use to think that all humans only meant us harm but I learned long ago that there are some good humans out there and they are worth protecting." Vuljotnaak was starting to get annoyed, "enough of this time to finish what I started long ago with your family!" he yelled as he dove down towards Draco. "What!" Draco shouted as he dodged Vuljotnaak's attack. "Oh you haven't figured it out yet? Well that is to be expected I mean you were the only one to hatch from the clutch your mother laid. Weak dragon she was as was your father!" he scoffed as he circled the copper dragon below him. That did it, Vuljotnaak had gone too far...he felt deep within him something snap and his rage came flooding out as he roared louder than he ever had before. He removed his cloak and tossed it to the side as he opened his wings and flew into the air to face Vuljotnaak, "let's end this here and now you traitor!" Draco charged forward and using his sword took a swing at Vuljotnaak's head, which he easily dodged. Draco looked back at the dragon he hated so much, "is that all you're gonna do Vuljotnaak? Dodge my attacks?" Vuljotnaak then surprised him by whipping his tail around and flinging Draco back several feet. Draco shook off the impact and used his sword by making the power of lightning emit from the tip of the blade and fired it towards Vuljotnaak's chest. Vuljotnaak counterattacked with his flame, sending it back at Draco, which he just managed to dodge. Draco fired back with his fire breath but was interrupted when Vuljotnaak flung him backwards with his tail again. Draco was getting more angry by the minute as he lunged towards Vuljotnaak once more but was grabbed and thrown to the ground below which knocked the wind out of him and his sword from his grasp. "Ha ha ha ha ha...not as tough as you thought are you?" he taunted all the while laughing at Draco.

From the barn Skygazer felt helpless as she turned to Bowen, "keep them safe..." was all she said as she ran from the barn to try and help her dragon. "Sky...Sky come back here! You'll only get yourself killed!" Bowen yelled after her. Skygazer ran to her dragon's side and knelt over him, "Draco...Draco...please open your eyes..." she said as tears stung her eyes. Every part of his body was screaming at him to stop but his pride wouldn't let him, "I refuse to let that monster win..." he said to himself. As he opened his eyes he saw that Skygazer was crouched over him. Finally able to get his breath back Draco sat up, to cough and place a gloved-claw to his chest. "Draco are you alright?" Skygazer asked, placing her hand on his. He looked at her, "Sky you shouldn't be out here, you should be back in the barn protecting the villagers." "I couldn't stay in there and watch you get yourself killed by Vuljotnaak," she shot back. "I was also trying to protect you from him, don't you understand that! He could kill you!" he half-yelled. "I won't stand by and do nothing while you are trying to get yourself killed out here," she said. Laughter from above interrupted them, "ha this is rich the once mighty Draco has fallen in love with a pathetic human woman. Perhaps I should have some fun with her myself..." he said licking his lips. Skygazer glared at Vuljotnaak as did Draco, "I won't let you lay a claw on her...so long as I live I will protect her from you," Draco shouted, his voice becoming hoarse. "Oh well if that's all it takes then I can just take you out right here and take my 'prize' back with me and enjoy her alone..." he said licking his lips once more. Draco had had enough, he removed his armor and pants, in order to take his dragon form. His eyes glowed brightly, he was lifted into the air, his body grew larger and he was back in his dragon form, although it was still the size it had been when they had flown here. "Ha it appears you're still too weak to take your true size so you can fight me fairly but I don't care either way because I can still kill you no matter what form you take!" he shouted as he flew towards Draco. "Go...go back to the barn, I don't want you to get caught up in this..." Draco said. Skygazer could do nothing but grab his armor, cloak and sword and retreat back a safe distance, though she still chose not to return to the safety of the barn. Draco once more took to the air and lunged at Vuljotnaak but he easily dodged it, grabbing a hold of Draco's back legs and spinning him around before throwing him against a tree. The force of the impact knocked the wind out of him for a second time and he slumped against the tree, once again left to try and regain his breath before continuing the fight. "Draco!" Skygazer cried as she dropped his armor and sword and raced to his side. She knelt down next to him, "Draco...baby are you ok?" she asked. The only thing he could do was nod his head but she knew he wasn't ready for a fight like this, it would only end up killing him. So she did the only thing she could do she removed her bow from her back, knocked an arrow and fired it at the red dragon. She grazed his shoulder with her arrow which seem to annoy him, "oh look at this...this tiny pathetic human woman thinks she can take me on. Well fine if that's what you wish so be it..." he said as he dove down towards her. Skygazer aimed to draw Vuljotnaak away from Draco until he got his second wind, "over here you monster you'll pay for what you did to Draco!" she yelled as she fired another arrow. This one hit Vuljotnaak directly in the side but not deep enough to kill him. Vuljotnaak roared in anger as he snapped the arrow off, "you wench...I will make you pay for that!" Skygazer knocked another arrow, aiming for Vuljotnaak's neck, but when she let it fly Vuljotnaak caught it and threw it back at her. Her quick thinking saved her as she tucked and rolled out of it's path. She grabbed her short sword and, using what strength she had, she threw the sword towards Vuljotnaak making it hit him in the neck, "ha right on target..." she yelled.

Back in the barn the villagers were starting to come out from where they were hiding to watch the battle, "wow she's fearless..." said the woman holding the infant. "Yeah she's braver than any man I've ever seen..." said the elder. "She's so strong, in body and skill..." said a man standing with his son. Bowen still held his sword in his hand ready just in case Vuljotnaak came in their direction. The young woman looked at the Knight, "Sir Knight..." she said. Bowen looked in her direction, "yes Miss..." "What is your name?" she asked. "I am Bowen..." he answered. "Bowen tell me something...how is that woman so strong as to show no fear of that dragon she is fighting?" she asked. Bowen pondered for a moment before answering, "well it comes from her history with one in particular..." he turned to look towards Skygazer and Draco, "that dragon over there against the tree, he is the reason that she is not afraid of them." The young woman was silent for a moment, "I see...and is she...is she with that dragon?" she asked. Bowen smiled and nodded as the young woman turned her gaze back towards the battle.

Skygazer was doing her best to keep Vuljotnaak away from Draco, "come on Vuljotnaak...over here!" she yelled as she knocked another arrow and aiming for his chest where the sword was still lodged. Vuljotnaak swatted the arrow away as he ripped the short sword from his neck and dove down towards Skygazer but this time when she went to run from him to dodge his attack she tripped which caused her bow to slip from her grasp. "Ha now you're mine!" Vuljotnaak yelled as he grabbed her by the leg and flew into the air with her. Upon seeing this Draco became alarmed, "Sky!" he called out having finally regained his breath. He stood on shaky legs and launched himself back into the air, "take your claws off her Vuljotnaak or I'll rip your throat out!" he threatened. Vuljotnaak was unfazed by his words, "ha your too weak to even take your true size what makes you think you can rip out my throat?" he taunted. Vuljotnaak then decided to play dirty, "well if you want her so bad come get'er!" he yelled as he took off higher into the air with Skygazer still in his clutches. "Draco!" she yelled. "Hang on!" he called back as he darted after them. Vuljotnaak flew higher than Draco had ever flown before and Skygazer wasn't sure what was gonna happen next, "I hope he can get me away from Vuljotnaak..." she said to herself as she glanced up at the red dragon that still held her by the leg.

Draco flapped his wings as fast as he could to get to Skygazer before Vuljotnaak did something to her. Once he reached where Vuljotnaak was he spoke, "I don't know what is wrong with you but you need to let her go, this fight is between you and me...she has nothing to do with this." "On the contrary..." he lifted Skygazer into his arms and held her face in his claw as he spoke, "this woman means a great deal to you so she has a lot to do with this fight." "You unhand her Vuljotnaak!" Draco roared. Skygazer took advantage of Vuljotnaak being focused on Draco and drew her dagger from her hip and plunged it into Vuljotnaak's neck just above his shoulder which made him roar in anger. "You wench!" he shouted as he turned to Draco, "you want her? Then...go get her ha ha ha ha..." he said as he let Skygazer drop from his grasp and down towards the ground below. Draco's eyes widened, "Sky!" then he turned to Vuljotnaak, "you monster!" he roared as he let loose a powerful blast of fire which hit the red dragon in the eyes long enough to blind him. Draco took advantage of this and dove down to try and reach Skygazer.

As she was falling all she could think was, "...well...this is it...this is how I'm going to die...falling from the sky. At least my last moments will be with someone I love..." she said as she could do nothing to stop herself from falling. She was sure that Draco wouldn't be able to reach her this time but her thoughts were interrupted by his voice coming from above her, "SKY!" She looked up to see her dragon coming towards her, "Draco..." she murmured. "Sky I'm coming..." he called. As she fell she felt her head spinning once more before she lost consciousness. Draco pushed himself as fast as he could but he didn't know if he would reach her in time, "come on I have to reach her...I can't let her die..." he put all his strength into his wings and thrusted them as hard as he could. He was reaching out for her as he felt himself dive faster towards her and with as much strength as he could muster, he flapped his wings harder than he ever had before and propelled himself faster. It was enough to reach Skygazer in time, "it's alright now my Sky...I've got you..." he said resting his head on top of hers as he made his way to ground with her cradled in his arms.

When he got back down to the ground he placed Skygazer against the tree to rest while he turned his attention back to Vuljotnaak as he landed on the ground several feet behind him. "Oh well how boring you managed to catch her in time..." Vuljotnaak replied dryly. Draco bared his fangs at Vuljotnaak, "you're a monster! Picking on humans when you should be protecting them but you're too heartless and cruel to even know what it means to care for anyone else but yourself." "Oh please what could I possibly get out of being a protector of pathetic humans...they are nothing more than food for us. Haven't you learned that yet?" he retorted. "I learned a lot more than you ever will from these humans especially this woman and from a Knight of the Old Code. They both taught me so much and in return they became my friends. My life has been enriched by these two humans that could've killed me but they didn't. We even banded together to overthrow a tyrant of a King and have brought peace to the land." "Oh please I could've done that just by burning the castle with everyone in it," Vuljotnaak said. "What happened to the dragon I use to know? Back when we were young...the elders always taught us to be protectors not tormentors. You chose not to listen to the elders, you chose to betray our kind and you led those dragonslayers right to us! Why would you do such a thing?" Draco demanded. Vuljotnaak laughed, "oh you poor fool haven't you figured it out yet? I've always hated what the elders taught us...always hated that way of life but more than that...I've always hated you," he growled. "What? Why? What would make you hate me so much?" Draco asked. "Don't you get it? You had everything that I didn't. You were the son of the leaders of our clan, you were treated like a god and it made me sick to my stomach. I couldn't take it anymore so one day I was out on my own and happened upon a group of men. It turned out that they were dragonslayers looking to make some money. So instead of fighting them we struck a deal. I said if they let me live then I would show them where our kind lived." Draco's eyes widened as his anger rose into his chest, "you betrayed us all because you hated me?" he yelled. "Yes I did, my main target was you...in fact you were the one I told the dragonslayers to take out first and if it hadn't been for that sorceress taking you and the other hatchlings away my plan would've worked. However there was one consolation out of it all..." "And what was that?" Draco asked, his eyes already burning. "My only consolation was, while I may not have gotten you I did get your parents," he replied all the while smiling evilly. "What? You were the reason my mother was killed? And my father?" he half-yelled. "Oh it was sweet revenge...I knew you would feel what I felt when I was cast out and banished from the mountain by your father, I wanted you to suffer," Vuljotnaak growled. Draco was fuming as smoke began to emanate from his nostrils, Vuljotnaak saw this and knew his plan was working as he began to circle Draco. "You know...perhaps I should take your little woman there, defile her right in front of you and then slit her throat...so you will know and feel what it's like to lose everything you care about," Vuljotnaak began to laugh manically. What he failed to notice however was that Draco was physically shaking and his eyes were burning brighter than they ever had before. "Make no mistake Vuljotnaak...there's is no way in the world I will ever allow you to get your filthy claws on my woman. I will make you pay for what you've done to my kind, my parents and for threatening my Sky. You will never terrorize anyone ever again!" he roared. It was then that he felt something deep within him, "what? What's happening to me?" he said as he was lifted into the air and became engulfed in a blinding light.

It was then that Skygazer began to regain consciousness, "hmm my head..." she said as she held a hand to her forehead. It was then that she noticed a blinding light, "huh what's going on?" She looked up just in time to see the light fading to reveal Draco but to her surprise he was back in the form she knew so well, "*gasp* he's done it..." she murmured.

When the light faded Draco opened his eyes to see that he was once more his true size, "how...how is this possible?" he asked. He then remembered Aria's words, "you will only be able to regain your true self once you have learned the true meaning of being a dragon...only then will your full strength return..." Draco then understood, "my strength comes from my bond with Sky, she gives me my true purpose in life..." he then turned his head to see Skygazer looking at him, "what a relief she's alright." His thoughts were interrupted by Vuljotnaak's voice, "now we can have a fair fight..." "Be careful what you wish for Vuljotnaak," Draco said launching himself towards the red dragon with more power than he was expecting. Using his claws to grab Vuljotnaak by the neck and sling him around before making him land against a nearby boulder. Vuljotnaak slid down the boulder and hit the ground, "is that all you got?" he taunted as he flew back into the sky towards Draco. As he went to attack Draco he was surprised with a ball of fire in the face. While Vuljotnaak was temporary blinded by the fire Draco clamped his jaws around the red dragon's neck. Vuljotnaak faught against the feeling of Draco's teeth sinking into his flesh, "get off me you little hatchling..." Vuljotnaak roared. "I'm not a hatchling anymore...I'm more of a dragon than you'll ever be!" Draco said through clenched teeth. From below the pair of dragons, Skygazer decided to take advantage of the situation, "Draco use your tail!" she shouted. Draco did what she said by opening up his tailclaw and stabbing Vuljotnaak in the side, which caused him to jolt sideways which gave her the opportunity she was looking for. She drew her long sword, placed it on her bow and launched it towards Vuljotnaak, making it hit the target, the spot where Vuljotnaak's heart was located. Upon feeling the impact of the sword in his chest, he tore away from Draco which caused some of the flesh to tear away with it. Vuljotnaak pulled the sword out and looked down at the woman who had thrown it, "time for you to die wench..." he growled as he dove towards her. "I don't think so Vuljotnaak," Draco said as he dove down onto Vuljotnaak's back and taking his neck into his jaws again and biting down as hard as he could. He twisted his body around, using his tailclaw to rip the wound Skygazer's sword had caused wide open making it pour blood. Vuljotnaak twisted around and managed to kick Draco in the gut enough to get him off but it was no use, his injuries were too great and he fell to the ground.

The villagers were cheering when Vuljotnaak hit the ground and they made their way over towards him with Bowen right by their side. Skygazer came over to stand in front of Vuljotnaak, "look how the mighty have fallen..." she sneered as blood flowed from his mouth. Draco landed next to her and brought his head down to her level to nuzzle her gently, "I am so glad you're alright my Sky..." he said. "I'm glad you're alright my sweet dragon.." she murmured, placing a kiss on his muzzle. Draco then turned his attention back to the dragon laying on the ground in front of him, "you see Vuljotnaak...you see what can happen when you actually understand what true strength is? What it means to be a dragon?" Vuljotnaak snarled in annoyance, "you will never harm anyone ever again...you're done..." Draco said as the last of Vuljotnaak's life force was extinguished.

With the threat finally dead the villagers approached Draco, not showing any fear of him, "what is your name dragon?" asked the elder. "I am called Draco...named by the Knight of the Old Code there," he replied kindly, motioning towards Bowen. The elder looked at Bowen and bowed his head in respect before looking back at Draco, "I want to thank you for what you have done for us and this village by vanquishing the evil that has been envading us for too long." "You're welcome wise elder and I will do my best to help you to rebuild what he destroyed," Draco replied. "That is very kind of you Draco," Skygazer replied. "Well I feel like it's my duty to do it...it's like our elders always told us, we are the protectors of humans...we show them kindness and help them when needed," Draco answered. The village leader approached Draco, "lower your head..." he said kindly. Draco did as he asked as the man spoke, "with the blessing of the village we see you now as a friend and protector," the man painted Draco's forehead with ash from the burnt house. "Thank you wise one," Draco said. Then the leader turned to Skygazer and Bowen, "I extend my hand you two as well," he painted the same symbol with ash on their foreheads that he did on Draco. "Thank you sir," Skygazer replied. "Thank you..." Bowen replied. The elder spoke, "now to rebuild what has been burned...we hope that you will help us." "Of course we will," Skygazer said as Bowen nodded his head.

With that they and the men set to work rebuilding the village while the children went to play out of the way of the adults and the women prepared food for their rescuers as a thank you. Bowen helped the men rebuild the houses, Skygazer helped with the barns and Draco helped to retrieve the trees and lumber to rebuild. By midday everything was rebuilt and better than before, "it's done..." Skygazer said wiping her brow free of sweat. Bowen was relieved that their work was done, "the village looks better than I ever thought possible..." he said. Draco was happy to have done right by these people and helped rebuild their village. Once everything was done Draco, Skygazer and Bowen rested for a bit before the feast. Bowen decided he would talk to the village elder for a while to see if there was anything else he could do for them.

Meanwhile Skygazer and Draco spent some time alone as they were sitting in the edge of the treeline. Skygazer was resting in between Draco's front legs just as she use to do. She let a content sigh pass between her lips gaining Draco's attention, "Sky are you alright?" he asked bringing his head down to her level. "Hmm oh of course darling...I'm just content being here with you like this again...it feels good..." she sighed. Draco had to smile as he lay his head down next to her the way he did long ago, "you're right it does feel good somehow...but you know..." Skygazer looked at him, "I can't wrap my arms around you like this.." he said as his eyes began to glow. Skygazer stayed where she was as he transformed beside her, she watched as his dragon form returned to his humanoid one with his arms wrapped around her. She smiled as she placed her hand on his arm as he placed a kiss on her cheek, "this is much better..." he chuckled flicking his tongue against her soft skin. She laughed at his antics as she turned around in his lap and pressed her lips to his in a tender kiss. Draco placed a hand on the back of her neck to deepen the kiss slightly. This interaction was so loving with the love-filled kisses, tender caresses and gentle nuzzles, it showed their bond was strong and it reaffirmed what they both felt for one another. When they let go of the kiss Draco spoke, "you know when we get back home I was thinking that I could show you more of what we talked about before." "You mean the courting traditions?" she asked. "Ah you remembered," Draco said. "Of course I did and to be honest I am curious about it," she said. Draco chuckled as he rested his chin on her shoulder, "I'm sure you are my Sky and you'll see once we return to our home, I will show you..." he pressed his lips to her temple as she leaned into the kiss slightly.

Some time later Bowen, Skygazer and Draco, who had redressed in his clothes and armor, were sitting amongst the villagers at the feast they had thrown in their honor. The village elder stood up and spoke, "we hold this feast to not only honor but to also thank our new friends for they have saved us from an evil that has tormented this village for many years. Because of these brave warriors we are finally free to live in peace here once more." The elder's words were met with cheers, applause and a few bangs against the table they were sitting around. "Though I am no King or Lord of this village I wish to place upon you three the title, Protectors of the Relm and as village leader it is the highest title I can bestow upon someone who has earned it," the elder replied. Bowen, Skygazer and Draco were honored, "we are honored wise one," Draco replied bowing his head slightly. "Draco...you are the first dragon that we have ever encountered that has been far from what we were expecting. We are honored by you, that you followed the wisdom of your elders and took up your duty to protect us commonfolk," the elder added. Draco bowed his head slightly as a sign of respect before he stood to speak, "you're very kind...and I wanted to say that in all my years I have never felt more accepted than I do right now. Before the rebellion most ran at the mere sight of me but here...you all have been so welcoming to, not just to me but to them as well. I just wanted to thank you all for that." As he sat back down Skygazer spoke, "we are very honored that you have named us Protectors of the Relm sir." He smiled at the young woman, "you are very kind young lady as are you Knight of the Old Code, your presence here has brought us much comfort." Bowen nodded his head, "we felt it was our responsibility to take care of the people of this village..." he replied. The elder bowed his head in respect as he turned to the villagers, "tonight we feast and celebrate...to our Protectors of the Relm...who will always be welcome here."

With that everyone set to enjoy the feast, everyone was so welcoming to the three who had come from far away to help their neighbors to the north. They were enjoying themselves being amongst these people and being able to relax and rest after a long day of battling and work. During the feast there were a few bits of entertainment, a couple of firedancers, a bard that played a tune and a young woman that sang a song about their three heros. At the end of the feast music played for people who wanted to dance so when the opportunity presented itself Draco offered his hand to Skygazer, "care to dance with me my Sky?" he asked. Skygazer couldn't hide the blush from her cheeks, "of course..." she replied placing her hand in his claw and allowing him to lead her over to a spot to dance with her. When the music started it was a slow song which meant that Draco could hold Skygazer close to him and show her how much she meant to him. Skygazer was now feeling a bit shy knowing all eyes were on them but she let herself enjoy this moment with her dragon. The couple moved to the music so fluidly and everyone watching them could see their bond and knew their hearts beat in time with one another. When the music ended Draco surprised not only Skygazer but everyone else when he pressed his lips to hers in a tender kiss, which she returned. When they let of the kiss the villagers applauded them as the elder spoke, "in all the years I have lived on this earth never have I seen a love shared between two beings as I have seen shared between the two of you this evening. The bond you share is very special and we can all see that you truly belong together." Skygazer blushed slightly and Draco merely smiled, "to the lovers..." said the elder as others joined in to praise the couple. A moment or two later Bowen spoke, "as fun as this has been we must get some rest we have a long journey back home in the morning." "Very well Sir Knight...rest well and may you wake with the morning sun..." the elder said. With that the three travelers made their way back to their camp they had set up earlier in the day.

When they reached their camp Bowen spoke, "I'm gonna turn in I want to be up early so we can get back and I can get back to the castle. I have lessons to teach my new students in the yard." "Old habits die hard ey Knight?" Draco teased. Bowen chuckled, "you know the answer to that..." he commented as he lay out his bedroll for the night. "Night Bowen," Skygazer said. "Night Sky...night Draco..." he replied. In a few moments Bowen was peacefully sleeping leaving only the lovers awake, "do you want to take a walk before bed?" Draco asked. Skygazer smiled, "of course..." she said as she placed her hand into Draco's before they walked away.

Now away from their camp Draco surprised Skygazer by picking her up and carrying her over to a small cave. He had spotted it when he was coming in to land when they arrived. Once inside the cavern Skygazer spoke, "I thought we were gonna walk..." she said with a coy smile on her lips. "Well we walked over here..." Draco retorted playfully. Skygazer giggled as he pressed his lips to hers. She could tell from the kiss that he was hungry for her and she was for him, "you want something sweet on your tongue don't you?" she panted. "You know me baby..." he purred into her ear which sent shivers down her spine. Draco placed her on her feet so they could remove their armor and clothing before they began kissing again. This time it was more heated and they weren't holding back, they went to their knees on the cave floor before laying back against the floor. Draco planted his lips onto Skygazer's breast while his free hand fondled the other. Feeling this sensation made Skygazer arch her back slightly and made her pant for her breath. Draco enjoyed hearing her this way and knowing he made her this way, he switched his mouth to the other breast while his hand fondled her breast. Skygazer rubbed her leg against his which made him wrap his tail around her leg. Once he had teased her breasts he moved down her body, trailing kisses all the way down...flicking his tongue just to send shivers through her body. Feeling his lips and tongue against her skin made her shiver, "*pant* Draco..." she panted out. Once he had moved lower to her sweet spot he flicked his tongue against her sensitive skin, which sent jolts through her, causing her to gasp, making the dragon smirk slightly. He placed his head at her entrance and inserted his tongue into her already wet cavern. Draco enjoyed her taste...it was like honey on his tongue and he knew it drove Skygazer wild, "ah ah *pant...pant* Draco..." she was left almost breathless at the feeling of his tongue within her walls. Once he had her worked up enough he came back up to plant his lips against hers, letting her taste her juices on his lips. While he kissed her he placed his already erect member at her entrance and as he kissed her with more passion he thrust into her. This feeling made Skygazer throw her head back and grab hold of his shoulders as she tried to dig her nails in, even though she could never get through his tough scales. Draco could feel her passion and as he thrust into her, he would nuzzle against her neck and play with her earlobe with his tongue. Skygazer was panting for every breath she took as was Draco, there passion was burning so hot, it threaten to burn them both. This was more passionate than when they made love in the hot springs back in their cave, "Draco...*pant...pant* Draco...oh yes..." "Yes baby...you are so beautiful..." he purred in her ear as a pleasure-filled growl emitted from the dragon's throat. She wrapped her legs around his waist as best she could to hold him where he was and he was all too happy to do so. Every thrust was filled with all the passion, all the desire and all the love he had for her. With several passion-filled thrusts Draco came deep within Skygazer's heated body, "ahh Draco..." she moaned. Draco's body shuddered slightly as he released his seed into the woman he loved with every beat of his heart. Skygazer was right behind him as she clenched tight around him and showered his hard member with her juices. They rode the waves of ecstacy for several moments, panting for every breath they took. After a few moments Draco disconnected and lay next to Skygazer as she lay her head on his chest to listen to the sound of his beating heart. "*Content sigh* Draco..." she breathed placing her hand over his heart. He smiled as he wrapped his arm around her before placing his hand on hers. He kissed the top of her head and buried his nose into her hair but in the back of his mind he was thinking about some things. Things that concerned their future together but he knew that was a conversation for another time. He glanced down at her, "maybe we should go back to camp and try to get some sleep.." he said. He waited for Skygazer to respond but when he looked down at her face he saw she was peacefully sleeping. He smiled at her, "sweet dreams my beautiful Sky.." he whispered placing a kiss on her temple and draping his wing over her. He felt his eyes become heavy, "I love you my Sky..." he whispered and as he drifted off his hand subconsciously went to her stomach.

When the sun rose the next morning Bowen awoke to find that he was alone at their camp, he raised up onto his elbow and looked around, "now where could they have gotten off to?" he wondered. He sat up for a moment before grabbing his boots and pulling them on. He stood up and began to look for tracks, "now to find their tracks..." he said to himself. He scanned the ground for a few moments before he spotted half a track in the dirt, "this way..." he said. He continued in the direction the tracks were going until he happened upon a small cavern, "this has got to be where they went." As he got closer he caught sight of what looked like Draco's horns, "Draco?" he called out. When he reached the entrance of the cave he saw the dragon laying on his side with his wings draped over him. Bowen took a small step around and caught sight of Skygazer laying next to Draco, both still peacefully sleeping. Bowen stood there for a moment before walking away to pull his armor back on and get ready to go back.

After the Knight walked away the breeze shifted slightly and brought a scent to the nostrils of the dragon, "hmm...what..." he raised his head up to look towards the cave entrance. Not seeing anything he lay his head back down to look at the woman as she still slept beside him. He brushed a stray piece of hair away from her face before placing a kiss on her forehead. He then eased himself up carefully so as not to wake his intended up. Once he was on his feet he stretched his body and wings out, "laying on that floor didn't do me any favors.." he said stretching himself completely out. Afterwards he turned his attention to his clothes, "now to get ready to head back.." he said picking up his clothes, choosing to stay unclothed knowing that he'd have to transform to be able to carry them back. It was then that Skygazer began to wake up, "hmm...Draco..." she murmured. He turned to face her upon hearing her voice, "there's my beautiful Sky..." he greeted. She smiled at hearing her dragon's voice as she stood up to grab her clothes and get redressed. Once she was redressed she turned to Draco, "well you ready to head back home?" she asked. "Yes I am...I want to get back there and show you what it means..." he walked over to her and took her hand in his before placing a kiss on her knuckles, "to be courted by a dragon.." he said. She smiled at him, "I look forward to it..." a light blush covered her cheeks. "Come on...I'm sure Bowen is already up and waiting on us," Draco said. "Alright..." she replied as they began walking back to their camp.

Back at the camp Bowen had gotten his armor back on and everything placed back into his pack by the time Draco and Skygazer came back to camp, "morning you two..." he greeted. "Morning Bowen," Draco said as he handed his armor and clothes to Skygazer. "How did you sleep?" the dragon asked. "Pretty good...takes me back to the times before the rebellion.." he replied. Draco took notice to the gleam in the Knight's eye, "you missed this...being out here, haven't you?" "Yeah...more than I thought I would," Bowen admitted. Skygazer repacked Draco's armor and clothes back into their pack as well as strapped his sword to her back after putting her dragonscale armor back on, "alright got everything packed up and ready to go..." she stated. Draco took that as his cue to transform back into his smaller dragon form so she could place the saddle back onto his back. She carefully lifted it back onto her dragon's back and began cinching the straps, "is that too tight?" she asked. "No you have it set comfortably my Sky," he replied with a smile. She came around to stand in front of him to place a kiss on his muzzle and he flicked his tongue against her cheek. Skygazer smiled as she came back to place her foot into the stirrup, to climb back upon Draco's back. Bowen then followed suit and after scanning the area to make sure they didn't leave anything behind, "alright let's be heading back," he said. "Ok hang on," Draco said, raising his wings and forcing his powerful legs to launch them into the air. Now up in the air once more Draco decided to circle the village once to say goodbye to the people that had been so kind to him, "Draco what are you doing?" Bowen asked. "You'll see Knight.." he replied. Upon reaching the village he spotted a few of the villagers below and upon seeing him they began to gather outside. The village elder came out to stand in front of the group as Draco hovered near the ground, "good morning to you!" he called. "We've come to say goodbye wise one and to thank you for being so kind to us," Draco replied. "You'll always be welcome here...safe travels to you friends..." the elder replied. As Skygazer and Bowen waved to the villagers Draco soared higher into the sky and let loose a roar to which the villagers cheered. He made one circle around the village before flying in the direction of home. A few of the children playfully chased after him calling out and saying their goodbyes. "Draco look the children are saying goodbye." He smiled at them and waved, "goodbye little ones..." he called back as he flew higher and away from the village.

Once they were out of sight of the village Skygazer couldn't help but laugh at the antics she had just seen from the village children. Draco smiled as he had never seen such happiness at his presence, "they were such kind people...I've never been more welcomed.." Skygazer said. Bowen cocked an eyebrow and leaned forward to look at her, "what?" she asked when she noticed him. "Never been more welcome huh?" he asked. She looked at him, "I felt welcomed by you and Kara too..." she replied in defense. Bowen couldn't keep the stern look on his face anymore as he chuckled at her reaction, to which she shook her head, "oh Bowen you're always teasing me..." she joked with a laugh. "What can I say you make it too easy sometimes," he replied. Draco couldn't help but laugh at the two humans on his back, "you two are always teasing each other..." he stated. "Oh like you've never teased me Draco..." Bowen replied sarcastically. "I don't know you're talking about..." he laughed. Skygazer giggled at the pair, "oh you two...if Draco were human I'd swear he was your brother with the way you two tease each other." Bowen just shook his head in amusement, "you know even though we had a task to do on this trip it has been nice getting back out into the countryside again. Didn't realize how much I missed it." Draco knew what Bowen meant, "I agree with you..being out here again feels good, it's like gaining a piece back that you didn't know was missing." Skygazer smiled, "I think so too and it was good being able to spend time together just the three of us, like old times." "Yes it is but it will also be good to get back to the castle..." Bowen said. "Not to mention Kara...ey Bowen?" Draco asked in a teasing manner. He turned his head away, "I don't know what you mean." "Oh come on Bowen, you can't sit there and say you didn't miss her," Skygazer chimed in, "I'm sure she missed you too." Bowen had to admit there was a part of him that had missed being with her on this trip, "I suppose...I guess I've gotten so use to being around her that I can't really think of a time I wasn't with her." Skygazer offered a piece of advice to the Knight, "you need to tell'er that when you get back to the castle and also tell'er how our trip was. It'll be a way for her to know that even though she wasn't physically here with us, she was with you in your heart." Bowen was silent for a moment or two before speaking, "will it help strengthen our relationship?" he asked. Draco was the one to answer, "of course it will...it will show Kara how much she means to you. I tell you what..." using his keen dragon sight he scanned the ground down below before locating what he was looking for, "there..." he said as he began to descend down to the riverbank.

Upon landing Draco spoke, "there Bowen..." the Knight looked in the direction the dragon was looking, "those are mountain grown flowers and aren't anywhere around our home territory." Bowen was silent as he was trying to understand what Draco was getting at, "you should pick some for Kara and bring them back for her...it'll make her happy.." Skygazer added. Bowen nodded as he dismounted with Skygazer right behind him while Draco took the opportunity to take a drink from the cooling river water. "Here place the flowers into this..." Skygazer said offering Bowen a small satchel. He smiled as he picked a lovely bouquet of mountain flowers before placing them into the satchel Skygazer had handed to him. "Alright she'll love the flowers you picked for her Bowen," Skygazer replied. He smiled as he stood, "thank you Sky...Draco..." he glanced towards the dragon to see him standing there, patiently waiting for them having quinched his thirst. "Come on let's get back so you can take them to Kara..." Skygazer said as she walked back over to Draco's side to get back into the saddle. When Bowen reached the dragon's side he passed the satchel to Skygazer so he could climb on behind her. She passed the satchel back to him as she turned to Draco, "alright let's go..." with that Draco took off once more and continued heading towards home.

After taking back off again it didn't take long to reach the territory they knew so well, "finally home..." Skygazer said. "Yes..." Draco breathed. The dragon allowed himself to soar lower and lower until his feet touched the ground but what surprised him was that he was left somewhat breathless, "why am I breathless all of a sudden?" he thought to himself. Bowen was the first to dismount from the dragon's back, "it's good to be back again..." he said as he gently took the satchel that held Kara's flowers from Skygazer before she too dismounted. "Do you need help packing your things on your horse?" she asked. "No I got it thank you for offering though," he said walking back towards the stall where his stallion was resting. Skygazer removed their pack from her saddle then removed the saddle from Draco's back, "there you go my love...you should rest now.." she said. He smiled at her, "thanks baby I will..." he said nuzzling her before walking inside the cave to rest behind the cabin for a while. Skygazer returned her saddle to it's place by her mare's stall before retrieving their things and bringing them into the cabin.

Behind the cabin Draco was about to lay down when he felt his head begin to spin slightly, "huh...what's wrong with..." he didn't get to finish his thought because his vision went blurry and he passed out and fell to the ground.

Unbeknowst that Draco had passed out, Bowen had finished resaddling his stallion and Skygazer had come outside to see the Knight off, "I hope you have a safe trip back Bowen." "I will and I'll be sure to do what you told me...to open up and talk to Kara," he replied. "Good.." she replied giving him a gentle hug before he got atop his stallion with the satchel of flowers strapped over his shoulder. As he rode away Skygazer waved until he was out of sight.

Now left alone Skygazer started to go around and check on her dragon but decided it was best to let Draco rest. So she went inside the cabin to prepare something for them to eat knowing full well that this entire trip had probably drained Draco of much of his energy. While she cooked inside the cabin she hummed a little tune to herself as her mind wandered to things she and Draco had talked about. She couldn't help but wonder what he would do next in his quest to court her in the dragon custom, "I never knew that dragons even had a custom when it came to choosing a mate..." she said to herself. She glanced over her shoulder at Draco's armor and sword as it rested where she had left it when they had returned from their journey.

Still lying where he had fallen Draco began to regain consciousness, "hmm...where...where am I?" he murmured, his voice sounding very hoarse. He slowly raised up his head to look around for a moment before he tried to stand, but as he was about to attempt to gain his feet he thought better of it and decided to sprawl out as he use to so that he could regain his strength. As he lay there with his head laying on the floor of his cave he was deep in thought, "I wonder...is this what Aria warned me about? About what would happen to me if I pushed myself too hard too fast? If so it's a good thing this didn't happen when I was fighting Vuljotnaak otherwise he would've killed me." He let a frustrated sigh escape his dragon lips because he knew for now he needed to focus on recovering from the fight and whatever injuries he had sustained during it. He still wanted to show Skygazer more of his customs when it came to courting but decided that it could wait for now. "There will be plenty of time for that..." a yawn escaped from him, "I really need a nap.." he said as he relaxed against the cool cave floor and drifted off to sleep.

Back inside the cabin Skygazer had finished preparing the food, "now to let Draco know..." she said making her way outside to where she knew he was. However when she got around behind the cabin she saw he was peacefully sleeping, she couldn't help but giggle at the sounds he made as he snored. She leaned against the back side of the cabin for a few moments before walking over to his side, kneeling down and placing a kiss on his dragon cheek before walking back into the cabin to eat the food she had prepared.

Sometime later Skygazer was sitting on the large boulder sharpening both hers and Draco's swords when she heard the sound of something in the distance that she didn't like, "what is that?" she wondered, brandishing her sword in her hand. She listened a few moments more before she figured out what it was, it was a band of poachers out scattering the wildlife and slaying whatever they found. She decided to sneak out with her mare and go check it out, "come on girl quietly now..." she said leading her mare out of the stall and saddling her up. Skygazer glanced in her dragon's direction to see he was still sleeping peacefully, "I'll be back soon my love...I promise..." she whispered blowing him a kiss and riding out of the cave.

She followed the sounds of the mens' voices and found them encircling some deer firing many arrows into them until they could no longer move. Seeing this made her blood boil, she silently slipped from her mare's back, removed her bow from her saddle, knocked an arrow and fired it at the leader making it land right where she wanted it, right in his shin. He cried out in pain, "who dares strike me with an arrow?" he boomed. It was then Skygazer called out to them, "I did..." she said stepping out from behind the tree still with her bow in her hands. The men took one look at her and began to laugh at her, "isn't this rich this little wench thinks she can best us...and with a bow no less..." one man taunted. The one who had spoke turned his gaze at Skygazer, "you know sweetheart you shouldn't be out here all alone something could happen to you..." he sneered. Skygazer narrowed her eyes as she spoke, "you are all trespassing, I suggest you leave or I will make you regret coming here." The men were amused at this woman as she showed no fear of them, "oh you think you can make us?" said the man with the arrow in his shin. "Yeah I can..." she drew her bow back, launching another arrow into the shoulder of another one of the men. The men looked at her then drew their weapons, "now you're asking for it.." said one of the men. Skygazer cocked an eyebrow at them, "don't say I didn't warn you..." she said drawing her sword and slashing at one of the men closest to her making him fall backwards. Her eyes darted from one man to the other as she chose her next target, going for the man who had been taunting her. She knocked his sword from his hand and sliced his leg open then slicing the arm of another that ran towards her. There was only one man left that charged towards her and she aimed for this one's chest.

Back at the cave Draco was just starting to wake from his nap having slept since they had returned, "*yawn* I needed that...I was more exhausted than I thought..." he said standing up and stretching. "Now to go see my Sky, I'm sure she's left something out for me," he said to himself. As he made his way towards the cabin he caught the sound of something off in the distance that sounded like yelling. Hearing this put him on alert, "what is that?" He then began to scan around looking for Skygazer but when he did, he noticed her mare was missing, "I don't suppose she went out alone?" It was then that he heard a voice he knew well, "Sky!" Without thinking he ran from the cave and flew towards the sound.

In the clearing Skygazer was focused on the larger man as he charged towards her, "too slow..." she yelled as she sliced into his side. "Ah you wench you'll pay for that!" he yelled as he threw his dagger at her. She reacted quickly enough to dodge it as she landed another blow to the man's side, giving it a severe kick to the already open wound she had caused. The man fell to the ground breathless and Skygazer stood there glaring down at him. What she had failed to notice was a man hiding behind a tree as he drew his dagger from his hip. He then stepped out from behind the tree in order to make a sneak attack on her but what this man did not know was that someone else had already seen him. From up above Draco had made it to the clearing in time to see the man sneaking up behind Skygazer, "oh no you don't..." he said letting loose a fireball. The man was surprised when he felt his back catch fire which caused him to scream out in pain. Skygazer whirled around in time to see Draco flying towards her, "*gasp* Draco..." she said. Upon seeing the dragon the injured men clambered to their feet, climbed onto their horses and rode away as fast as they could.

Skygazer was left breathless from the fight as she turned to see Draco land at her feet, "my Sky are you alright?" he asked nuzzling her gently. She gave him a tired smile, "yeah I'm alright darling..." she rested her head against his for an instant before looking into his golden gaze, "what are you doing out here?" she asked. "I heard voices and when I noticed your mare wasn't in her stall I came to find you," he said, "and it's a good thing I did...if I hadn't gotten here in time that man would've killed you." To Skygazer it sounded like he was scolding her a bit and she looked down slightly before going over to the injured deer they had left behind. She placed a gentle hand on the scared animal's shoulder, "easy sister...you just rest now..." she said unsheathing her dagger and finishing the deer off, "there...now you will no longer suffer but you will not go to waste..." she said to the doe as she picked up the animal and placed it over her mare. She then turned to Draco, "these other two are too full of arrows to do anything with...those men ruined the meat." Draco glanced at them then back at her, "what do you wish me to do?" he asked gently. "If you do not want them then burn their bodies so that they may return to mother earth and they will not be wasted," she replied sadly. Draco knew how much nature and the protection of it meant to Skygazer with her heritage, it was only natural for her to be this way, "I may be able to salvage a little bit for myself but the rest I can burn." "Thank you darling..." she said leading her mare away from the clearing but not before she spoke, "and Draco..." he turned to look at her, "thank you." He smiled at her as he set to work with the task in front of him as she made her way back to the cabin to clean the doe. Draco did manage to retrieve a bit of the meat that hadn't been ruined by the men's arrows and devoured it while he burned the two deer's bodies. Draco had to admit that eating the raw deer meat brought back the energy he had used during the fight with Vuljotnaak. As he kept an eye on the flames he made sure there was a break between the flames and the rest of the forest so that nothing else would catch fire. Once the animals' bodies had burned to ash he stamped out the rest of the flames to make sure it wouldn't burn anymore.

Satisfied that all the flames were out Draco then made his way back to the cave where he found Skygazer finishing up her work on the deer. "You're very skilled..." he commented as he lay down behind her. She glanced over her shoulder at him before turning her eyes back to her task, "I was taught from a young age how to do this and I never forgot." He nodded in understanding as he spoke, "you know...I keep thinking about if I hadn't gotten there in time...what would've happened to you." Skygazer turned to look at her dragon fully, "if something ever happened to you I don't know what I would do." Skygazer's face softened, "aww baby..." she said walking over to her dragon. Once she stood in front of him he carefully raised his clawed-hand up to caress her cheek gently, "it's true Sky...if I had gotten there too late I would've been heartbroken..." he replied in almost a whisper. Skygazer nuzzled against his hand before kissing his palm. This gesture was so gentle and loving, it showed how much he truly cared for and loved her. She knew it had been reckless to go out alone but she had become so use to it she hadn't given it a second thought. She smiled at him before pressing her lips to his in a tender kiss, Draco responded by placing his other clawed-hand against her back as he deepened the kiss slightly. When they let go of it Draco rested his muzzle against her forehead, "you my Sky...are my only reason for living...you give me a purpose because as my intended it's my duty to protect you because I love you more than anything else in this world." Skygazer was touched by his words and their deep meaning, "Draco..." she breathed. He smiled before placing a kiss on her forehead, "you're everything to me..." he said locking his golden gaze with her bright blue one. "And you are mine..." she replied with a light blush on her cheeks. After sharing that little moment Skygazer spoke, "I should get this deer meat inside so it doesn't spoil..." she said reluctantly. "Ok...but later on I would like to show you more of what we talked about..." Draco replied. She smiled, "alright..." she said before disappearing into the cabin. Draco watched her for a moment or two before he decided to venture back into his cave for a while to get reaquainted with it.

Later that day Skygazer had cooked up the deer meat for them to have for dinner but when she went to call Draco to eat, "Draco...Draco dinner!" she called but she didn't see him anywhere. "Now I wonder where he went off to..." she said to herself. She thought for a moment or two before a thought struck her, "maybe he went further back into the cave..." with that thought in mind she made her way outside to find his tracks going further back into the cavern. She followed them for several moments before she came to a part she knew well, "the part of the cavern where the firepits are...wonder what he would be doing back here." She looked down to see that his tracks were heading back towards where his old bedding was and figured he wanted to relax back here for a bit.

When she came around the bend she indeed found him laying on the old bedding, "what are you doing back here?" she asked. Draco, who had been so wrapped in his thoughts hadn't noticed her approaching, "oh Sky...it's just you..." he replied. She laughed, "who did you expect? A ghost..." she joked. He chuckled as he turned around to nuzzle her gently with his muzzle, she loved when he did this gesture with her and it made her feel so loved by him. "So what are you doing back here?" she asked curiously. "Nothing really...just thinking about old times, being back here brings back a lot of memories," he said with a sigh. "I'm sure it does...we spent many a night back here didn't we?" she asked sitting on the bedding next to him. "Yes we did..." he was silent for a moment before he spoke, "my Sky can I ask you something?" "You know you can ask me anything my love," she replied. He thought out his words for a moment before speaking, "well being back here and remembering everything we shared, it got me to thinking about how things are now." "Ok..." she said. "And I was wondering would you ever...I mean have you ever thought about what it means to be with a creature like me?" he asked. The question caught Skygazer off guard slightly, "what? What do you mean?" she asked. "I mean with me being a dragon my lifespan is far greater than yours...if we did marry one day I would have to watch you grow old and die, then I would be left alone in this world." Skygazer had to admit she hadn't thought about it until now but knew that her lifespan was much shorter than his. As long as she was with him she didn't care, they could just enjoy the time they had together while she was alive. "Oh Draco...I know that my lifespan will never match yours but we can enjoy the time we do have together...and be happy." He looked at her and saw the sincerity in her eyes, "oh my Sky..." he transformed back into his humanoid form as he continued, "I couldn't bare the thought of living the rest of my life without you," he said holding her hand in his. She looked up into his golden gaze and saw the emotion in his eyes, "how long have you been thinking about this?" she asked. "Since I came back here...the memories got me to thinking about how I will outlive you and I'll be all alone," he said wrapping his arms around her. She embraced her dragon close to her and nuzzled against his chest where his heart was before he pulled back slightly, "are you sure that this is what you really want?" he asked. She smiled as she placed her hand on his cheek, "of course it is...I love you with every beat of my heart that only beats for you...I couldn't imagine a life without you in it." He placed his clawed-hand on hers as he nuzzled against it before locking his gaze with hers, "my jewel you are so precious to me..." he said pressing his lips to hers which she returned. When they let go of the kiss she smiled at him, "come on back to the cabin, I made us some dinner..." she said kindly. "Alright," he said taking her hand in his as they walked back to the cabin.

When they returned to the cabin Draco saw that Skygazer did indeed have dinner waiting for them and they sat down to eat together. While they ate a comfortable silence filled the room but Skygazer's mind was on what Draco had said to her earlier, "I wonder if any of that has to do with what happened earlier with those men?" She knew how he had been when they first met and she could tell that he had a hard time back then letting himself get close to anyone, especially humans. So she began to wonder if there was a way to truly be with him so that her lifespan would match his. She wanted to ask this question but she was afraid of what the answer would be. She thought for the longest time before she decided to speak, "Draco..." he looked at her, "yes my jewel?" "I was thinking about everything you said before and I was just wondering if...if there was a way for us to truly be together.." she said. "What do you mean?" the dragon asked cocking a browridge. "I mean is there anyway for me to be able to share your lifespan with you? So I won't die and leave you to live your life alone," she replied. To say he was surprised by her statement was putting it lightly but he kept it off his face, "would you really want to?" he asked. She looked at him and smiled, "of course I would...I want us to have a full life together...it would break my heart to leave you behind like that." Hearing this made him smile as relief flooded his mind, "well then knowing that will make my question easy then," he said. She cocked an eyebrow at him, "what question?" she asked. He scratched the back of his neck slightly, in a very human-like manner which amused Skygazer, "would you share blood with me?" She thought about it for a moment, "does it mean what I think it does?" she asked. "Yes it does..." he replied. "Is there anything special we need to do?" she asked. "The only thing is we can't do it here, there's a cavern high in the mountains...back up where I was born. It's a special cavern there that has never been used in all the time I've been alive. It has a special use..." "What is it used for?" she asked. "In the dragon custom if a dragon falls in love with a human and they wish to truly be united they must share blood with one another. It will ensure they share the same lifespan, dragons mate for life.." he explained. "Like wolves," Skygazer said. "Exactly but to my knowledge that cavern has never been used once, not since it was first created," he said. "And how long ago was that?" "Over a thousand years ago..." Draco said. "A thousand years...wow..." she exclaimed. "Yeah at least that's how it was told me by one of the elders long ago when I was young," he replied. Skygazer thought about everything Draco had told her before she spoke, "is there a ceremony attached to it too?" she asked. "Yes it is but it can only be performed by a dragon elder and I don't even know if there are any of them left that can do it," he said. "What about Aria?" "Aria...but she's not a dragon elder.." Draco reasoned. "Maybe not but she might know how to do it though," Skygazer replied. With that thought in mind they decided they would go see Aria after dinner to ask her about the ceremony.

After dinner Skygazer took a dip in the hot springs to freshen up her body after all the travelling they had done over the last couple of days. She had left her armor back at the cabin so she was merely clad in her light clothes, she removed them then stepped into the water to dunk herself completely in the hot soothing water. When she came up she found Draco standing against the wall watching her, she was slightly startled at his sudden presence but smiled upon seeing him, "hey there handsome..." she cooed. "Hey yourself my beautiful treasure..." he purred. She could tell from his tone that seeing her gleaming wet skin reflecting against the water of the pool had made him hungry for her. She came to the side of the pool as she spoke, "were you looking for some company baby?" she cooed, her voice laced with desire. He grinned a toothy grin at her, "yes I am..." he purred as his voice was also laced with desire. She was happy to share the hot springs with him, "come on in then..." she said raising up slightly so her ample breasts were exposed for him to see before turning her back to him giving him a view of her firm backside. Draco kept his keen eyes on her every curve as he stepped into the soothing water before he moved to capture her lips with his as he deepened the kiss by placing his clawed-hand on the back of her neck. She responded to this by pressing her body against his making sure to rest her breasts against his chest. As if on instinct he let a pleasure-filled growl emanate from his throat as he wrapped his tail around her lower leg. Their tender kisses gave way to ones that were more heated and Draco lifted Skygazer up, placing his arms beneath her backside so that she was sitting on them. He brought her over to a spot where the rock had been erroded away long ago, and placed her back against it. She wrapped her arms around him as a free hand went around to grab her firm backside and he broke away from kissing her lips to kiss her neck below her ear before trailing down to her breasts. Skygazer could tell there was something different about their lovemaking, it was more passionate and heated. Draco was paying extra attention to her sensitive skin on her breasts as he made circles with his tongue around her nipple. The sensation of this made Skygazer's desire grow hotter and she began panting. Draco switched to her other breast to do the same thing before placing her on the side of the hotspring pool so he could run his tongue over her moist, sensitive skin of her heated core. She rubbed her leg against his cheek as he slipped his tongue into her dripping walls making her gasp in the process, "*gasp* Draco...*pant...pant*..." she was being left breathless at this pleasure. Draco worked her up before lifting her up and placing her back into the water where his hardened shaft was exposed and waiting for her. He slipped into her dripping warmth easily and began to thrust upward. She kept her hands on his shoulders and her legs around his waist while he kept one hand on her leg and the other beneath her. He planted his lips on hers in a heated kiss which she feverishly returned, her body was hot and she was panting for every breath she took, "oh Draco...Draco..." she moaned out. A growl of pleasure erupted from the dragon's throat as he continued to thrust into her desirable body, "my Sky...my Sky..." he panted between thrusts. Their lovemaking was full of passion, sensuality, desire and love...they were lost in it. Draco had never known such a feeling nor had Skygazer as the heat that was building between them threaten to burn them both. The only sounds that could be heard aside from the sound of the water sloshing was their panting and moans. With every thrust he made into her body Draco felt as though he was delving deeper into her heated cavern and Skygazer felt it too. The feeling of his large, hardened member within her lit a fire deep within her and made her desire burn all the hotter for him, "ah...ah...Draco...oh yes..." she panted. "My Sky..." he panted as he felt the pressure building, meaning that he was close to release. "Oh...Draco..." she moaned out as she came so hard onto his shaft and he was right behind her, "Sky...*pant*...*pant*..." he panted as he released his hot seed deep within her waiting body. For several moments neither of them moved, not that they could...Draco was supporting himself on shaky legs while they rode the waves of ecstacy. Once their breathing had returned to normal Draco pressed his lips to hers in a tender kiss which she returned. He disconnected from her but kept supporting her in the water as he moved her to sit in his lap while he moved them over to the edge of the pool. He lifted her from the water and placed her on the side of the pool before climbing out to sit next to her with his arms wrapped around her. They sat in silence for several moments enjoying the closeness they felt before either of them spoke, "*content sigh* it's times when we share moments like that I wish it would never end..." Skygazer murmured. Draco nodded as he rested his chin on the top of her head, "I know my Sky...I know..." he breathed contently.

A little later on they had redressed and were getting ready to go see Aria when the sound of thunder was heard rolling in the distance, "a storm is coming..." Draco said. "Yes it is...guess we better wait until tomorrow to go talk to Aria," Skygazer replied. "It would be a good idea, besides it's late and she would've already turned in by now," he added. Skygazer looked at him, "how do you know that?" she asked. "Well back when I was young, after my parents were killed she always made sure we hatchlings would turn in just as the sun was beginning to set over the horizon," he said. "Really what else do you remember?" she asked curiously. Draco thought back for a moment, "the other thing I remember from back then is she would always sing us a melody and told us that it had two meanings." "Two meanings?" "Yeah...I never found out how she knew that melody though," Draco said looking out at the storm. Skygazer could tell there was more to what he was saying, "Draco...is there something else?" she asked. He glanced away from her before meeting her gaze, "the thing of it was that she was...she was singing in the dragon tongue." Skygazer's eyes widened slightly, "what? How did she know the dragon tongue?" Draco shook his head, "I don't know I asked her once but she never answered me." Skygazer was silent for the longest time before she spoke again, "do you think she learned it from one of your elders?" she asked. Draco thought for a moment before answering, "you know looking at it that way...it kinda makes sense. I mean she was always around us dragons so it makes sense she would pick up on our tongue." Skygazer looked thoughtfully at Draco, "perhaps you should ask her about it." He nodded, "maybe I should besides...I still have some questions about that time anyway." Hearing this intrigued Skygazer, "what would you like to ask her about?" Draco noticed how curious his little woman was being and he couldn't help but find amusement in it, "well about my parents, if she remembers anything about our customs when it comes to bonding...but there was always something about it that made me wonder." "What was that?" she asked. Draco got a very distant look in his golden eyes as he spoke, "she use to speak of someone that was very dear to her. She never said his name but she would always get this distant look in her eyes. I know she's been there ever since I was a hatchling but I do wonder sometimes if she's been there longer than that? Or who was the one that was dear to her?" Skygazer gave him a sympathetic look as she placed a kiss on his cheek, "I'm sure if we talk to her then maybe she'll share that with us...or rather...you." Draco cocked an browridge at her, "why wouldn't she tell you? You know her secret that she's a sorceress that's been looking after my kind for hundreds of years." "I know she shared that with me but I'm saying that, something like that, that is even more personal, she would more likely share it with you because you've known her longer than me. You have a bond with her because she use to take care of you when you were young," she explained. "You do have a point but still I feel like she would share it with you too...afterall you did help her that day and look where that led. It led to me being brought back again so we could be together," Draco replied. Skygazer smiled as she rested her head against her dragon's chest listening to the sound of his heart that beat within. As the rain began to come down harder Draco spoke, "come we should get some rest..." he said. She smiled at him, "alright.." she replied but as she went to walk back inside she found that Draco had picked her up into his arms and proceeded to carry her into the cabin. She didn't protest as she loved being in his arms but as they passed by the entrance of the cave the wind blew the rain in on them but it didn't last long as Draco brought his wing up to block it until they reached the door of the cabin. He set her down on her feet before they both walked inside, fastened the door for the night then made their way back to their bedroom to settle in for the night. Skygazer was already in her soft clothes and Draco wore only his pants as they got into bed, cuddling up into each other's warmth. "Sweet dreams my precious treasure..." he murmured. She placed a gentle kiss on his lips before replying, "sweet dreams my sweet dragon." He wrapped his arm around her small frame before draping his wing over her as well, letting sleep overtake their tired bodies.

It was about midnight when Draco awoke from a nightmare that left him panting slightly, he looked at Skygazer as she still slept peacefully beside him. He pondered for a moment or two before deciding to go outside in the cool night air to try and clear his head as the storm had passed. Once he was outside he sat on the boulder that was a little ways away from the cave entrance, he turned his gaze to the sky to look at the very constellation that he was named after. A gentle breeze began to blow around him, tickling his wings and almost making him want to take a flight. He flexed his wings restlessly and twitched his tail, flexing his tail talon. His mind was on so much right now and he didn't know what to do to sort out his thoughts. He was thinking about the dragon customs to court his intended, what the future would hold for him and Skygazer once they were bound together as one. He was also thinking about things he wanted to talk to Aria about, one thing he wanted to talk to her about was how he had felt so drained when they had returned from the northern mountain village. "I just hope something doesn't happen to me, Skygazer would be crushed...I can't do that to her again," Draco said to himself. He stared up at the constellation for the longest time before he made his way back into the cabin to where Skygazer was still peacefully sleeping. He smiled at her before he got back in bed beside her, curling his body around hers before draping his wing over her as he found sleep once more.

When the sun rose it shone into the cave entrance to warm the front room of the cabin, in the back bedroom the couple was still cuddled together in each other's arms. Upon hearing birds singing their morning songs one figure shifted slightly and opened his golden eyes to look at the beauty laying beside him. When he raised up he made sure not to disturb the sleeping woman as he got to his feet and made his way outside. He decided to take his dragon form and lay out in the warm sun to get some energy from it. Once he had transformed he stretched out completely, flexing his wings and getting the stiffness out of them. "Ah that feels so good to lay in the sun like I use to..." he said to himself as he rested his chin on the ground with his wings laying out comfortably on either side of him. He sighed contently as he was enjoying the feeling of sun on his scales. Inside the cabin Skygazer was just starting to wake up and as she rolled over, she reached out as if expecting to find Draco still laying beside her. When she didn't feel him laying next to her she raised up slightly to look around the room, "I wonder where he went off to..." she said to herself. She got out of bed and made her way towards the front room of the cabin then outside to find Draco basking in the warm sunshine. She had to smile at seeing him so relaxed, she made her way over to him and leaned against his side to enjoy the warm sun with him. When the breeze shifted it brought to his nostrils a scent he knew well which made him open his golden gaze to see her leaning against his side absorbing the sunshine with him. He smiled, "so you came out to join me did you my jewel?" he asked sideglancing at her. She smiled at him, "of course...I do enjoy the warm sun too." He smiled as he spoke, "you know since I came out here I been thinking about some things...mostly about what to talk to Aria about." Skygazer nodded to let him know she heard him, "anything in particular?" she asked. Draco thought for a moment before speaking, "I guess I'm more curious about Aria because now that I think about it, I was told by an elder once that she's been with us since before I was hatched. I'm starting to think that maybe there is more to her than I ever knew." Skygazer turned to face him but still remained beside him, she placed her hand on the side of his face as she spoke, "well to find out all you have to do is talk to her...she's known you and your kind for a long time. I know she's like family to you..." she said. "It's more than that..." he raised his head up to look at her, "she is family to me...she became my mother when my parents were killed. I have a great amount of respect and love for her." Skygazer's face softened, "have you ever told her that?" she asked. "No I never really got the chance to because I wasn't the only one she was looking after at the time. There were other hatchlings she was raising and training, so I haven't really gotten to spend much time with it being just her and I," the dragon replied. Skygazer was sympathetic as she came around in front of her dragon to look him in the eyes, "perhaps it's time for you to have that with her...she did raise you afterall." Draco looked down slightly, "yeah I know you're right..." he replied lowering his head and nuzzling against her body gently.

Later that morning they were preparing to leave their cave to go see Aria, "are you ready to see her again?" she asked her dragon. He looked at her as he was pulling his hood up, "yeah I'm ready..." he replied. Skygazer smiled, "alright let's go..." she said getting atop her mare while he sat in the cart that was hitched to the mare's saddle. They had briefly considered flying there but thought better of it, in case they ran into any other people on their journey. It didn't take them long to reach Aria's hut so when Skygazer brought her mare to a stop she looked at Draco and noticed his gaze was looking towards the hut. She dismounted from her mare and led her over towards a post to hitch her there for a bit. Draco got out of the cart and stood beside his intended as she looked to him, "shall we..." she asked. He nodded as they approached the door only to have it open for them to reveal Aria standing there, "hello you two..." she greeted warmly. "Hello Aria..." Skygazer smiled. It was then that the sorceress turned her gaze to the very dragon she had raised long ago, "I sense something has brought you here to see me," she said. Draco nodded as he spoke, "there is and I...I've been wondering about some things." She nodded, "very well please come in..." she said stepping aside and allowing them to enter.

Now seated in the front room of Aria's hut silence passed between them for an instant before she spoke, "so I heard that you crossed paths with a dragon from your past young one." Upon hearing this Draco's eyes widened slightly, "how did you..." then he stopped himself. She merely laughed, "you forget I do have a second sight...plus I heard a tale from the town down the way that a young woman, a Knight and a dragon had vanquished an evil dragon in the north mountains." Draco looked down slightly, "so how was it crossing paths with him again?" she asked him. The dragon was silent for a moment before speaking, "I don't know, seeing him again after all this time and finding out the truth about what he done..." he subconsciously clenched his fist against his thigh, "it felt good to finally take that traitor out..." he said, his eyes flashing bright for an instant. Aria had known of the bad blood between the two dragons and in truth she had known that it was going to happen this way. She had seen what Vuljotnaak had done the day before she had shepherded the hatchlings away from the cave before the dragonslayers arrived. Skygazer noticed a slight change in Aria as she had become quiet, "Aria...are you alright?" she asked. The sorceress took a deep breath before she spoke, "Draco there's something I need to tell you...it's something I should've told you long ago." Draco locked his gaze with hers as she continued, "I knew...I knew long before that day that Vuljotnaak was going to betray and I spoke to the elders about it but we had no idea what Vuljotnaak had planned." Hearing this made Draco's heart break a little, "what..." he sighed. "I tried...I tried young one to warn everyone but no one could have been prepared for how strong those dragonslayers had been," Aria replied. Draco placed his face in his clawed-hands as Skygazer placed a gentle arm around his back, she looked at the woman sitting in front of them, "what did the elders say when you told them?" she asked. Aria knew that she couldn't keep her secret anymore, "when we spoke to the elders they assured us that everyone would be safe." "We?" Skygazer said. Draco looked up at the woman, "what do mean we?" he asked. She took a shaky breath as she spoke, "at the time...I had a husband, that husband...was the head elder of the clan." Hearing this made Draco's jaw almost hit the floor, "what? You were with my great-grandfather?" he asked. Skygazer's eyes widen slightly, "you were with his great-grandfather?" she asked. "Yes I was, after he lost your great-grandmother to illness there was a darkness inside of him and the day we crossed paths I knew he needed someone to be there for him because he had become lost without his mate." "So that's why you always stayed so close to me when I was a hatchling?" he said. "Yes..." she replied. Skygazer then asked an innocent question, "how long ago did you meet his great-grandfather?" Draco held his breath as he waited for an answer, "a thousand years ago..." Aria said. To say he was surprised was an understatement, he was shocked, "wait a minute I thought you had only been in this area for several hundred years. You've been here longer than that?" he asked. "Yes young one I have been and if it hadn't been for your great-grandfather I would've left long ago. When I met him I intended to help heal his heart by offering him my friendship but..." a light blush then played on the sorceress' cheeks, "you fell in love with him.." Skygazer said. "Yes I did and he fell in love with me, I became more than just a human companion to him...I became his mate," Aria replied. It was then that something became apparent to Draco, "you two were the reason our race created that cave and the binding ceremony?" "Yes we were, it was the only way he and I could truly be together. He created the ceremony so I could be given his lifespan because at the time I was a mere human sorceress. After the ceremony was performed and we were bound as one, I shared the same lifespan as your great-granfather." "What happened to him?" Skygazer asked. It was Draco who answered, "what happens to everyone of our kind, he was slain by dragonslayers." "The same dragonslayers that killed your parents," she added. The dragon didn't know how to feel after hearing all this, "so after losing him did that mean you lost the long lifespan or what happened?" Skygazer asked. Aria looked at the young woman curiously, "after the binding ceremony is performed on a human the effects of it are permanent reguardless if the dragon they are bound to dies." There was silence for several moments before Skygazer spoke, "was it still worth it? Even after everything that happened?" she asked. Aria smiled, "yes deary it is because I still have my memories of my beloved and the many years we shared together." "That's nice..." was Skygazer's response. Then Draco became very serious, "Aria can we talk?" he asked. Aria could tell from the dragon's tone that there was something weighing heavily on his mind, "of course young one.." she replied. Skygazer took that as her cue, "I'll let you two have a minute..." she said giving Draco a quick kiss then stepping outside to let them talk alone.

Now left alone with the dragon she had raised she decided to ask, "does you wanting to speak to me alone have anything to do with that young lady of yours?" He shook his head, "no...no not really..." "Then speak what is on your heart young one," she said. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly, "well it's about something you said when you brought me back and I...I've been wondering because I noticed when we returned from the north mountains that I felt more drained than I thought I would." "How so?" "Well in the fight with Vuljotnaak at first I tried to keep my true nature away from the villagers we were protecting but after Vuljotnaak called me out I started to try and use the magic you infused into me, to try and weaken him," he stated. "Go on..." she encouraged. "When that didn't work I took my dragon form...it was smaller than it once was so Vuljotnaak had an unfair advantage over me but then when he started talking about what he had done to my parents...I don't know I somehow managed to become my true size and was able to defeat him." "Is that all?" she asked to which Draco shook his head no, "when we went back to visit Bowen and the others we stayed the night in the castle, I went to bed in this form and woke up in a smaller dragon form. My throat would burn when I took a deep breath like the flames wanted to come out but I would only cough out puffs of smoke." "When you fought Vuljotnaak did you use your fire?" she asked. "I did but I'm worried that I may be losing control of my dragon strength, even though I was able to become my true size in the fight I still don't feel like myself. And worst of all I almost got Sky killed..." he said looking down at the floor. Hearing this made Aria concerned, "explain..." she said kindly. "I had taken Sky out on a flight but when we went to take off to come home a roar came out when I wasn't even trying and I didn't pay attention on the flight back and was putting too much strength into my wings and knocked Sky out of the saddle she had put on my back..." he hid his face in his claws, "I was so reckless...I nearly killed my intended..." he said. Aria was sympathetic as she stood from her place she had been sitting in order to sit next to him, "listen to me Draco..." he glanced in her direction at feeling her hand on his shoulder, "I've known you ever since you were a hatchling and I know once you have someone you truly care about that you would never intentionally hurt them. I know how much you love her young one and you will learn how to control your dragon strength as you once did. In time both your body and mind will become one and you will be the dragon you once were...I know it," she replied. Draco smiled gently at Aria as he placed a gentle hand on hers, "you've always known how to comfort me ever since I was young. I know I wasn't always the easiest hatchling to raise but I've always looked at you as another mother." When she heard those words it made her eyes well up with tears as she embraced him in a loving hug, holding him as though he were a hatchling all over again. It was at that moment that Skygazer came back inside to check on them that she saw Aria holding Draco in a gentle embrace, "it's good that they were finally able to talk about things..." she thought to herself.

Some time later on during the day the couple was sitting in the front room talking about the binding ceremony with Aria and all that it entailed. "So you intend to bind to this young woman?" she asked. "Yes I do..." he turned to look Skygazer in the eye, "she means the world to me and I can't imagine a life without her in it," he looked back at Aria as he finished speaking. "I knew this day would come for you once you found the right one, although I have to admit that I never thought you would have chosen a human woman but," Aria looked at Skygazer, "I can't think of a better human woman for you to bind yourself to than this young woman sitting next to you." Skygazer was touched by Aria's words as she spoke, "you are very kind..." she replied. Aria smiled kindly at her before looking back at Draco, "you will need to know what the ceremony entails so it is done properly..." she said. "What did you have to do when you bound to Draco's great-grandfather?" Skygazer asked. Aria thought back for a moment before answering her question, "we stood in the cavern made of crystal, in front of a dragonhead carved into the wall of the cave, we stood in front of your great great-grandfather because he was performing the ceremony." "Wait he performed it for you and my great-grandfather?" Draco asked. "Yes he and your great-grandfather created the ceremony together but it was performed by your elder. Once we stood in front of the dragonhead carved in the side of the cave wall, we held each other's hands as your elder spoke an incantation but it was in the dragon tongue so I wasn't really sure what it meant back then. After being with your great-grandfather I did eventually learn what was said in the incantation." "What did he say?" Skygazer asked curiously. Draco glanced at Skygazer before turning his gaze back to Aria, "it is similar to what is spoken when a dragon shares their heart but it goes like this: to this heart you bind as one, to share in each other strengths in both body and mind. To intertwine your hearts and souls to one another, to become as one from now until the end of time." "What a beautiful incantation..." Skygazer said with a soft look on her face. Draco nuzzled his intended before looking at Aria, "I can already tell that the bond you two share is stronger than any other I ever saw back in those days when there were more of your kind young one. But if you truly wish to be bound to her you must perform the ceremony just as we did." "I fully intend to..." Draco said looking at Skygazer, "she's worth it.." he said. Aria smiled then became very serious, "you have courted her in the dragon tradition?" she asked. "I have back before the rebellion and since I've been returned to life," Draco said. Skygazer remained silent as she knew he was referring to them dancing at the feast in the north village after Vuljotnaak had been destroyed. "Have you given her the symbol of your binding?" she asked. Draco shook his head, "before we came back from the north mountains we talked about me showing her the custom of being courted by a dragon but I hadn't decided on the symbol of our binding." "Well you must do so before the ceremony can be performed," Aria replied. "I know and I will create one if I have to..." he said wrapping his wing around her shoulders. She rested her head on his shoulder before nuzzling it affectionately. "Once you have that symbol then return to me and we will make our way back to the cavern to perform the ceremony there," Aria said. "We will...I promise..." Draco replied. "Very good..." Aria said as she stood up from her place with Draco and Skygazer following suit. "While I await your return I shall create the ceremonial clothes and prepare," Aria added. "Thank you Aria truly.." he said embracing her. "You're always welcome young one..." she placed a wrinkled hand on his cheek. He smiled as he placed his claw on her hand. Aria then turned to Skygazer and embraced her, "both of you take care child...I look forward to your return.." she stated. With that Draco clad himself in his cloak once more as they bid farewell to Aria before heading back to their home.

When they arrived back at their cave Skygazer dismounted from her mare while Draco stepped from the cart, "I think I'm going to soak in the hot springs for a bit after I see to my mare and if you like, we can do something this evening," Skygazer said looking at her dragon. He looked in her direction, "I'd like that besides I did say I would show you more about what it means to be courted by a dragon," he said giving her a toothy grin. She smiled at him, "I look forward to it..." she said kissing his lips briefly before leading her mare away. While she did that he decided to go explore some of his old haunts to try and find something for Skygazer as a symbol of their bonding. He had an idea of where he was going to look that wasn't too far from their cave so he would be close by. He turned to look at her before she went back to the hot springs, "my Sky..." he said. She looked at her dragon as he approached, "yes my love..." she replied. Draco wrapped his arms around her for a moment, "while you're in the hot springs there's a place I want to check out." She was curious, "where is it?" "It's close by and I won't be long," he said. She made her sky-blue gaze meet his golden one, "just promise you'll be careful..." she said placing a kiss over the spot where his heart was hidden. "I promise..." he placed a kiss on her forehead before pressing his lips to hers and nuzzling against her cheek. She returned the kiss and gesture before he walked away from their cave, she stood there and watched him disappear from sight before she made her way to the hot springs deeper in their cave. Once she reached the hot springs she stripped out of her armor and clothes before getting into the soothing water, "ahh this feels so good..." she said sitting in the spot they had sat in before. She lay her head against the side of the hot springs and rested her eyes while she relaxed.

Now at one of his old haunts located just up the hill from their cave, "this place hasn't changed in all these years..." he said as he stepped into the cavern. He stood there for a moment or two as he let all the old memories return to his mind, "still feels the same..." he sighed, "now to see if that craggle of crystal is still in here..." he said making his way further back into the cavern. He walked down the tunnel until he came to a spot where the sunlight was shining through a hole in the ceiling, illuminating the room that was filled with crystals, "it's still here...after all this time it's still as it was back then." He was relieved that it had remain untouched, his golden eyes scanned every inch of the cavern until he spotted what he was looking for, "there it is...this will do nicely," he said kneeling down beside a chunk of red crystals that was growing from the floor. Using his claws and keen sight he carved out a chuck of red crystal so he could create what he had in mind, "she'll love this..." he said as he carefully began to chisel out the shape he wanted. Normal humans would have trouble if they attempted this but being a dragon he had more knowledge of how to carve and create things out of crystal when the occasion called for it.

Back in the hot springs Skygazer was scrubbing her skin and hair clean of all the dirt she had accumulated on their travel to and from Aria's hut. She was also excited at the thought of spending a romantic evening with her beloved dragon, "I wonder what he could have in mind for this evening..." she said to herself as she finished bathing. She decided to just soak a while longer while she waited for Draco to return.

Back in the crystal cavern Draco had just about finished carving what he wanted to out of the crystal, "there we are...done and it's as beautiful as my beautiful Sky..." he said tucking it into the satchel at his hip before making his way back to their cave where he knew she was waiting for him. As he travelled back he made up his mind that he would bring Skygazer to the crystal cavern that evening and serenade her with a song, for he had never sang for her...not in all the time he had known her. Before leaving the cavern he glanced the area to make sure no one was around before deciding to fly back in his humanoid form so he could get back quicker. He had to admit that it felt strange to fly in this form but he wanted to get back to Skygazer so she wouldn't be left alone for too long.

When he reached the cave he made his way towards the hot springs to let her know he had returned safely. Upon reaching the hot springs he found her with her head resting on the edge of the pool, he shook his head slightly in amusement at her, "you might drown if you fall asleep there my jewel," he greeted, slightly startling her. She looked up to see her dragon standing over her, "I'm glad you returned safely my love," she said turning around and resting her arms on the side of the pool giving Draco a nice view of her ample breasts which were still moist from the hot water. He smiled as he knelt down to her level, "I didn't want to leave my intended alone for too long.." he stated. She smiled at him as she lifted herself out of the water to stand in front of him, "I guess this means you found what you were looking for," she said grabbing her clothes and getting redressed, choosing to carry her armor back to the cabin in her arms. "I have and I have also decided what to do for our evening," he replied. Hearing this made her face light up, "I wonder what it could be..." she said, her voice full of curiosity. He chuckled, "you'll find out soon enough my treasure.." he replied caressing her cheek affectionately. She smiled as they walked back towards the cabin hand in hand with her armor tucked beneath Draco's arm as he had insisted that he carry it for her.

When they reached the cabin Draco turned to Skygazer, "wait right here..." he said gently letting go of her hand. "Alright.." she replied with a smile. Draco walked into the cabin to place Skygazer's armor on the chair in the front room before returning to her. Upon coming back outside he held his arm out to her, "my lady..." he said with a bow. She giggled as she laced her arm with his and allowed him to lead her out of their cave. "So where are we going?" she asked. "You'll see my jewel..." he said glancing over his shoulder at her.

They walked along for a little ways before coming to the entrance of the cavern Draco had been at earlier while she had been bathing in the hot springs. Skygazer tilted her head to the side slightly, "what is this place?" she asked. "It's a surprise..." he said. She cocked an eyebrow at him, "trust me..." he said gently. "Alright..." so she allowed him to lead her down the tunnel that led right to the cavern he wanted her to see. "It's just up here," he stated. Skygazer was unsure but she caught sight of something shimmering up ahead, "what's that up there?" she asked. Draco smiled, "that my dear is the surprise..." he said as they took a few more steps and entered the cavern. Upon doing so Skygazer's eyes widened slightly, "oh wow...this place is beautiful..." she said as her eyes darted from one crystal to the next. Draco let go of her arm to allow her to look around at the beautiful crystals that clung to the wall, ceiling and floor, "yes it is but nothing compares to the beauty that is you my treasure.." he said. Skygazer turned to smile at her dragon as a blush covered her cheeks, "you're so sweet Draco..." she replied in almost a whisper. He then approached her before taking her hand into his and placing a kiss on her knuckles, "it's true...you are the most beautiful woman in the world to me and no other, not even this crystal cavern could ever compare to your beauty," he pressed his lips against hers as he wrapped his arms around her waist. They held the kiss for a moment or two before he pulled back just enough to look her in the eye, "I also have something for you..." he said letting go of her for an instant. "What is it?" she asked. He smiled a toothy grin, "close your eyes..." he murmured. She did as he asked while he retrieved the item he had carved out of crystal from the pouch at his hip, "alright open your eyes.." he said. When she did her eyes widened considerably as she took in the beauty of what he had in his claws. What he held was an exquisite red rose that he had carved out of a crystal from the cavern. Skygazer was left breathless, "oh Draco..this is...this is beautiful..." she murmured. "It mirrors your beauty my love," he said as he gently placed the rose into her hands. She examined it for a moment, taking in all the intricate detail, "where did you find something like this?" she asked. "I made this...I carved it out of a crystal from this cavern," he replied. A small gasp escaped her lips, "you carved this...for me?" her face softened as a light blush played on her cheeks. "Of course..." he placed a gentle clawed-hand on her cheek to caress it lovingly, "I give this crystal rose to you as sign of my undying love that only belongs to you..." he took her free hand gently into his before placing a kiss on her knuckles. This gesture only made her blush darken, "this means so much to me...just as you do my love..." she replied. He then led her just past the crystal cave to one where a small waterfall trickled through the room and into a small pool. The pool itself was encircled with crystals that sparkled against the water as the mist from the waterfall bathed them in a rainbow of light. Draco led Skygazer over to a rock for her to sit on and surprised her yet again as he began to sing for her. As she listened to the sound of his voice she could tell from the look on his face that it was a love song and while she couldn't understand what was being said because he was singing in the dragon tongue, she was enjoying hearing him sing to her all the same. When he finished his song he came over and knelt before her as he placed a kiss on her lips which she eagerly returned. When they let go of the kiss Skygazer spoke, "you have a beautiful voice..." she said. "Thank you my love," he replied. She rested her head on his chest, "this has been the perfect evening..." she sighed contently. "Yes it has..." he said picking her up in his arms. She snuggled into his warmth, still clutching the crystal rose in her hands, as they began making their way back to their cabin for the night as it was getting late.

When they reached the cabin Draco carried her inside before placing her back on her feet once more. She turned around in his arms and pressed her lips to his, "thank you Draco...I had a wonderful time with you this evening and I love the rose." He caressed her cheek, "anything for you my beautiful treasure...I love you." "I love you too.." she nuzzled him and he returned the gesture before they walked back towards their bedroom to turn in for the night. Skygazer placed the crystal rose on the bedside table before climbing into bed with Draco following suit. He wrapped his scaly arm around her small frame before draping a wing over her, "sweet dreams my Sky." "Sweet dreams my love," she replied as she snuggled her body against his as they let sleep overtake them.

The morning came too soon, "hmm it's too early..." she murmured as she rolled over. She opened her eyes just enough to see the face of her dragon as he slept beside her, she smiled before snuggling down into the warmth of his embrace. She enjoyed this closeness they shared and she allowed her mind to look back on all that had happened to them ever since he had been brought back to her. She had never even thought that something like this could be possible and if she hadn't crossed paths with Aria then it never would've happened at all. She considered herself lucky, "I don't know how I could ever be able to thank Aria for what she's done for me...for us..." she thought to herself. Skygazer then turned onto her back to stare up at the ceiling but her thoughts were interrupted by a voice from beside her, "something on your mind my jewel?" She turned her head to see Draco and his golden eyes staring into her blue ones, she smiled as she spoke, "I was just thinking..." "Yes...about what?" he asked. "Many things...but mostly about the things that Aria has done for me...for the both of us..." she said. Draco understood what she was getting at, "hmn I know what you mean...she has done a lot for both of us. She practically raised me and then she granted the one wish you've always wanted when she brought me back from the dead so you and I could be together." She smiled for a few moments and Draco could tell something was still on her mind, "what is it?" he asked. She looked down slightly before looking up into the beautiful golden eyes that always mesmerized her, "how do we thank her for all that?" she asked. Draco let a soft chuckle escape his throat, "you know I've been wondering the same thing for a very long time." "Really?" she asked. "Yes..." he sat up to lean against his pillow, "it wasn't long after I became old enough to go out on my own that I found myself missing her. I wasn't around my parents very long before they were killed by those dragonslayers so Aria was really the only mother I had. Anyway I thought about it many times but I never could figure out anything," he said looking at Skygazer. She sat up to the lean her head on his shoulder, "I can imagine it would be hard to find a way to thank someone for doing so much like that but I know it would mean the world to her if you did though." Draco was silent for the longest time before he spoke again, "it's just hard to put into words to her how I feel about about everything she's done for me since I was a hatchling. Afterall she was the first human I ever saw and she was also so kind to, not just me but all of my kind. She never saw us as monsters or something to tame or destroy. She respected our strength and she helped us to see that humans were worth protecting, in fact she was the one that also showed that to our elders." "Is that how dragons created the oath to always watch over man?" Skygazer asked. "She is..." Draco then got a distant look in his eye, "I still remember back then...it was late one night and it was just after the dragonslayers attack...I was barely a few months old and I was having a very hard time trying to sleep. She kept a closer eye on me because I was the youngest, anyway I had been flexing my wings restlessly so she came to check on me. I had woken up from a nightmare and couldn't go back to sleep. So she leads me outside and shows me the dragon's heaven and she tells me the story of how it came to be. She told me that long ago when man was young and a dragon already old, the wisest of our race took pity on man. So he gathered together all the dragons and made them vow to watch over man, always. And at the moment of his death the night became alive with those stars and thus was born the dragon's heaven." Skygazer nuzzled his shoulder affectionately as he continued, "she told me that not all dragons were admitted to that shining place, that we have to earn it. Then she turns to me, looks me square in the eye and tells me that I shouldn't fear what happened to my parents because she knew that they had been admitted there and had taken their place among our ancient brothers and sisters of the sky." "Is that why you had been having trouble sleeping? Were you afraid that they had just disappeared as if they never were because they were killed by dragonslayers?" she asked. He looked down slightly before looking at the woman sitting beside him, "yes...even now I still think about that..." Skygazer became silent for a moment or two before she spoke, "is that why you always use to stare up at those stars back before the rebellion? Because you were thinking of your parents?" she asked. He nodded his head as he spoke, "I would've thought that after all this time and at my age that I would've been able to move passed what happen to them, especially after killing Vuljotnaak. But...but somehow I...I still feel their abscense," he turned so that his feet were planted on the floor, turning his back to Skygazer. She turned to sit on her knees as she looked at his back, not really knowing what to say. Skygazer had always known that there had been much of Draco's past that she didn't know about but she had never probed because she respected his privacy and if he wanted her to know then he would tell her when he was ready to. Draco always respected Skygazer because she was always so considerate of him and his thoughts and feelings, even now. As he sat on the side of the bed he felt Skygazer's warmth as she wrapped her arms around him, being mindful of his wings and spines. She didn't have to speak, just having her close to him was enough, he glanced over his shoulder at her to which she placed a kiss on his scaly cheek. This was the first time he had really opened up to her about his past and she felt very privileged that he had shared that with her.

Later that morning the pair had come outside as they had decided that they would go for a flight, thinking maybe it would help Draco to clear his head. Skygazer knew that because it was close for them to perform their binding ceremony, it was only natural that Draco was thinking of his parents. The dragon had taken his smaller form so Skygazer could place her saddle onto his back, he didn't mind the saddle because he knew that it made Skygazer feel more comfortable on his back. He had to admit that he was always happy when she removed it when they reached their destination so he could fully relax and rest his body from wearing it. Today when she adjusted the straps he fidgeted slightly which caused her to look at him, "what is it Draco? You usually don't fidget when I'm putting on the saddle." He shook his head slightly, "the bugs are flying around my head a little bit, this warm weather has them on the move..." he said. Skygazer nodded in understanding, "yeah I know that feeling, when the warm weather arrives just have to kinda put up with them." "Yeah I suppose," he said snapping at a bee that was getting too close to his face. "Be careful that you don't anger that bee, he may try and go for a spot and sting you.." she commented. Draco snorted at the thought, "my hide is too tough for them to ever be able to sting me." "What about inside your ears?" she said. He glanced down at her to give her a funny look to which she took notice, "what?" she asked. He remained silent before turning his head away from her. To her he was acting very odd, "what has gotten into him this morning?" she then attached the cinching strap, "is that too tight?" she asked. He looked at her kindly as he brought his head down to her level, "no it's fine my jewel..." he nuzzled her gently before flicking his tongue against her cheek. She giggled at the feeling before kissing him on the muzzle as she took his gesture as a silent apology for his mood. She didn't hold it against him, she knew he had sensitive skin around his face and if a bug got into the wrong spot it could be a problem for him, "perhaps a nice swim will do you some good..." she commented. "Perhaps..." he said as she climbed onto his back, "you ready?" he asked. "Yeah, let's go..." she answered. With a nod of his head he raised his wings and pushed himself off the ground with his powerful legs and into the air. He flapped for several moments to get them up to a comfortable altitude so he could glide effortlessly on the air currents. As he evened out Skygazer was able to relax in the saddle as she enjoyed being up in the air with her dragon. The wind blew her hair around her face and it cleared her mind. For Draco it filled his lungs with crisp, clean air and tickled his wings as he soared with the wind. He felt his heart race in his chest, he loved to fly high above the clouds, his soul felt so free up here.

Down below them a group of men was scouring the area, "come on lads, they must be around here somewhere..." said a man who sat upon a horse, "I shall make that woman and her dragon pay for what they did." The group had come to this area several days prior and now sought revenge against the woman and her dragon.

Up above the land that surrounded their cave Draco caught the sound of something below, his body tensed up and Skygazer took notice, "what is it?" she asked. "Trouble..." he growled. Skygazer peered down at the ground where Draco was looking and upon seeing what it was she became tense, "those are the same men I encountered several days ago, I thought I had made my point clear..." she said. Draco noticed her tone as he spoke, "apparently they didn't get the message." "Time we teach them a leasson..." she said. "With pleasure..." Draco said diving down towards them with a roar.

The group of men looked up upon hearing the roar, "there they are! Kill the dragon! But the woman is mine..." he sneered. The leader remained on his horse as the dragon circled them, "you were told to never return!" Skygazer shouted. "As if we would listen to the likes of you! Come down here woman!" shouted the leader. A man standing next to him spoke, "shall I take a shot now?" he asked, knocking an arrow on his bow. "Hold off...for now..." said the leader. Draco knew the intention of these men and wanted to end this quickly, "if you do not heed her warning then you will have to contend with me!" he bellowed. "Ah so the dragon has a soft spot for this woman...then I shall enjoy this more than I thought..." the leader looked at his men, "attack!" he yelled. Draco glanced over his shoulder, "hang on Sky..." he said diving down towards the group of men, aiming for the leader. Skygazer held tight to the saddle, having no weapon with her, she would have to improvise, "what do I do? I have no weapon with me nor my armor?" she said only loud enough for Draco to hear. Realizing she would be in danger if she were to be on the ground he decided they would have to fight from the air, "just stay on my back and I'll try to end this quickly." "And if not?" she asked. Draco went silent as he grabbed one man off the ground and flung him into a tree before turning his attention to one aiming his bow at Skygazer. "Stay down my Sky..." he instructed as he dove down, grabbing the bow from the man's hands, leaving him weaponless. Draco turned his head just enough for her to grab the bow from him, "aim for the one of the horse, he's their leader." "Right..." she knocked the arrow that was still on the bow and aimed for the leader. It was going to be harder to hold steady while they were flying but she would make it work. She waited for Draco to fly towards the man so she could line up her shot and once they were in range she let the arrow fly. The arrow deflected off his armor and hit one of his men, "no!" Skygazer shouted angrily. It was then that Draco came up with a plan, "if I get you close enough to do you think you could take them out from the ground?" he asked. "But I thought..." she didn't get to finished her sentence, "I know but we need to draw them out, it will be the only way I'll be able to use my fire on them." Skygazer had never been in a fight without a weapon before but if she could disarm one of them then she could take their weapon. She watched as Draco circled for a moment as she picked her point, "there behind that boulder, they won't see me there." "I can get their attention long enough for you to get a weapon and maybe get the upper hand," Draco said. "I'll do my best..." she said. "I know you will, just be careful.." he said. "I will..." she replied.

Draco then dove down and barrel rolled so she could drop down behind the boulder in order to start taking the men out. Draco came back around focusing on the leader, "now you're mine..." he called down. Skygazer carefully made her way around the boulder, sneaking to have a look and maybe take out one of the men. "Oh playing hide and seek are we wench...no matter I will find you and when I do I will enjoy killing you in front of your precious dragon..." sneered a man with a long scar on his arm. Skygazer hugged the boulder as she slipped behind a nearby tree. Luckily for her one of the men had a dagger in a sheath at his hip. She crept closer and closer until she managed to slip the weapon from the sheath and plunge it into the man's back, making him cry out. Hearing this made the other men look in that direction, "check it out..." the leader barked. Two of them nodded and carefully made their way over to their fallen brother. They looked upon his corpse as one of them spoke, "he's dead!" "Find that woman!" the leader ordered. Draco let loose his flame and lit the two standing over their fallen comrade a blaze. The leader sneered at this action, "damn that dragon...I want his head!" he yelled. "You'll have a hard time getting it!" Draco yelled back shooting flames down at the leader. Skygazer had clambered up into a tree with the man's bow on her back, she pulled an arrow from the quiver and knocked it onto the bow. She took careful aim and fired it, "hit the mark..." she said as the arrow flew from her fingers. This time she managed to get the leader in the arm which distracted him long enough for Draco to swoop in and snatch another of the subordinates and fling him into the boulder. The leader was fuming, "you and your wench think you are so clever don't you? Why don't you come down here and face me dragon!" It was then that Skygazer had crept close enough to take out the last of the leader's subordinates and had made her way all the way up to the leader. She knocked the last arrow and pointed it at his neck, "stand down...now!" she snapped. The leader looked over at her then turned his eyes to the dragon as he landed in front of him, "I'm giving you my final warning..." he roared, "leave this land and never come back here or we will be forced to kill you." The leader sneered at Draco's threat, "you really think that I'm afraid of you? I fear nothing..." "What about an arrow to your neck?" Skygazer pressed the tip of the arrow into the man's flesh to emphasize their point. Draco bared his razor sharp teeth at the man, "you heard her!" he said in a warning tone. The man scoffed as he drew his hand back to strike Skygazer across the face before unsheathing a dagger from his hip and holding it to her neck, "now..." he sneered, "who has the upper hand?" Draco roared in anger, "don't you dare hurt her or I'll..." "Or you'll what? Burn me to a crisp, you'll only be risking your woman's life. Especially if I throw her into the path of your flames..." he laughed. Draco's rage coursed through him like fire on dried grass, "you'll will pay!" he yelled springing forward and grabbing at the leader. Skygazer took advantage of the distraction long enough to knock the dagger from the man's hand and roll away from him. Seeing this Draco let loose his flames once more and lit the leader on fire. The man cried out in agony as he succumbed to the flames and died.

Skygazer stood there panting slightly from the fight as Draco came in to land next to her but as he did so his head began to spin slightly, "what is happening?" He did manage to land next to Skygazer only to have his legs give out under him as he fell into darkness, "Draco? Draco! Wake up..." she craddled his head in her arms, "please...please wake up..." she pleaded. Skygazer couldn't move him like this, she was powerless so she had to figure out something to do. "Come on think...what can I do to get him back to the cave and then get him help?" She racked her brain for several minutes before clambering to her feet and making a mad dash for her mare, she had no choice the men's horses had run off when Draco had approached. She turned back to look at her dragon, "I'll be right back..." she said running with all her might back towards their cave.

Fortunately they hadn't been far from the cave when they had been attacked so she managed to get to her mare quickly, "come on girl we need to get help..." she climbed onto her mare's back and galloped towards where she had left Draco. She had to retrieve the saddle and somehow manage to get him somewhere safe while she fetched Aria. When she returned to the clearing she found that Draco had reverted to his humanoid form leaving the saddle and cinching strap draped over him. Skygazer quickly removed the saddle and placed it onto her mare then turned her attention to Draco, "come on my love...we need to get you onto my horse so I can get you to Aria..." she said. But as Draco was unconscious, he hadn't heard her so she was having to try and lift him up onto her mare all on her own. Being a dragon, even in this form, it wasn't a simple feat, every inch of his body was solid muscle. Skygazer did finally manage to get him onto her mare after a lot of effort on her part, "now to get him to Aria..." she said getting into the saddle and riding as fast as she could, "please...please hold on..." she said to Draco.

In her hut Aria had been working on the ceremonial clothing for the couple when she heard the sound of a fast approaching horse. She stood from her place at the table and made her way outside just in time to see Skygazer riding fast towards her, "why deary what is the matter?" she asked when Skygazer brought her mare to a stop. "Please it's Draco..." she turned her mare so the sorceress could see him, "we were attacked and after the battle he collapsed." "Bring him in quickly..." she said. Skygazer somehow found the strength to lift Draco from the saddle and bring him into the sorceress' hut and lay him down onto the bed. Skygazer was physically exhausted from both the fight and moving Draco, "will he be alright?" she asked. Aria saw the desperation in the young woman's eyes, "I'll do what I can..." she replied. Skygazer nodded her head as Aria set to work on Draco. She saw no wounds but she felt his energy was low and that his heart was barely beating, "he has pushed himself too hard..." she said finally. Hearing this made fear race through her, "Draco..." she sighed her voice wavering slightly. Aria could tell how worried Skygazer was and in truth she was as well, she had raised this dragon ever since his parents were slaughtered by the dragonslayers, she looked upon him as if he were her son. Aria took some healing herbs she had and began to create a potion. "What is that?" Skygazer asked. "A healing potion...it will heal his body and restore his strength," she answered. Skygazer watched the sorceress silently for the longest time as she worked, "here...tilt his head.." she instructed kindly. Skygazer did as she was asked and tilted Draco's head back slightly so Aria could administer the potion so it could take effect. Once done Aria placed her hands upon his chest as she spoke an incantation and her hands began to glow. Skygazer was amazed at what she was seeing but remained silent to allow Aria to work. After a moment or two the glow subsided, "will it really be able to help him?" she asked. Aria placed a sympathetic hand on her shoulder, "it will...he just needs time to rest..." she saw the troubled look in the young woman's eye, "he is strong in body and in spirit...he will heal." Skygazer was silent for a moment, "will he ever be able to be the dragon he use to be?" she asked. Aria saw concern written all over the woman's face, "with time he will..." "But it's been alomst a month since he came back, I woulda thought he would've been fully restored by now..." she said. The sorceress knew what the young woman was saying, "deary for someone to return from the dead, it takes time for them to fully return to the person, or in this case, dragon that he once was. He was gone from this world for many years before his return. What little magic I gave him is helping but he still needs to train himself, in both body and mind. To be able to control his dragon strength and be able to sustain himself as he once did, will take time." Skygazer looked down slightly as she did not like the sorceress' answer to her question. "However, this potion I gave him will help to speed things up a bit, fear not when he awakens, his strength will be fully restored and he will no longer fall victim to fatigue," Aria reassured. Skygazer didn't say anything as she sat by his bedside to watch him sleep and recover. When Aria came to check on the sleeping dragon some time later she found Skygazer half-dozing, "get some rest child...I will watch over him, I've been doing so for several hundred years," she said. Skygazer was too tired to protest, "here drink this..." Aria said. "What is it?" the young woman questioned. "It's the same form of potion I gave to Draco but it's not as strong as his, being you are human I had to make it with half the amount of ingredients that I used for him," the sorceress replied. Skygazer nodded as she drank the potion and after finishing it she laid her head onto the side of the bed and closed her eyes as sleep overtook her. Aria watched over the pair as they rested and healed together, as well as continued her work on the ceremonial clothes she was making.

As she slept Skygazer began to dream but this was no peaceful dream, it was a nightmare.

Skygazer's Dream:

In her dream she was back in the castle courtyard the night of the rebellion fighting against the King's soliders. Bowen was fighting the tyrant and Draco was bound to ground with chains. She fought off the man she was fighting then turned her gaze to her dragon. As she was ready to go to Draco's side she found she couldn't move, "huh what's happening?" she said. Then turning her eyes to her dragon she watched as Bowen threw the axe as Draco held up the scale that covered his heart. "NOO! DRACO!" she yelled as she struggled against the force that held her still but it was no use. She was forced to watch him be slain before her eyes, "no...no...DRACO!" she cried out. "Draco...Draco...DRACO!"

End of Dream:

She jolted from her sleep with her body covered in sweat and panting for her breath, she was visibly shaking. She then turned her gaze to see her dragon still peacefully sleeping in front of her. She let a relieved sigh pass through her lips as she slouch back on the bed, burying her face into the covers. It was then that a voice reached her ears, "are you alright deary?" Aria asked. Skygazer looked at see the sorceress standing beside her, "I was dreaming..." she replied. "Of the rebellion?" asked the sorceress. "Yes..." Skygazer replied. Aria nodded in understanding so she decided to ask, "what happened?" Skygazer took a shaky breath as she spoke, "I was in the castle courtyard fighting and then as I go to run to Draco's side, I find that I can't. Some invisible force is keeping me there and forcing me to watch Bowen throw the axe and slay him," she looked at her dragon as she spoke these words. Aria placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, "it was only a nightmare deary, your dragon rests peacefully in front of you. You will not lose him again...I promise." Skygazer fought back tears as Aria spoke, "I'm just so worried about him." Aria knew how she felt, "I understand deary, I spent many days worrying about him when he was young." Skygazer had to smile, "how was he to raise?" she asked. Aria had to laugh at Skygazer's question, "he was a hand full at times but he'd had it hard after his parents were slain." Skygazer nodded in understanding but now she was curious as she listened to Aria continue, "back in his younger days he would often challenge the other young dragons to a race, to test how fast they could fly but being the youngest, he was often teased by the older dragons. He often found himself alone and would spend most of his time by the river, he enjoyed the peaceful sound of the water flowing over the rocks." Skygazer felt bad for him, "I know what it's like to be teased cause I was always targeted by the village children and after some time I was able to finally stand up for myself and they finally left me alone." Aria nodded as she spoke, "yes children can sometimes be so cruel. Draco had a hard time finding his voice but after he did, he never had anymore problems with the other dragons. Anyway once he came of age and began to come into himself he chose instead to stay away from the other dragons and live a life of peaceful solitude. After some time he found himself growing tired of the solitary life and sought out companionship with his own kind." "That makes sense that he would want that companionship at some point," Skygazer said. Aria smiled at her comment, "yes he did and one day he was on his way to the river to enjoy the warm sun when he found the Scarred One. That was how she was known because she had never spoken to anyone so no one knew her name." Hearing this intrigued Skygazer as she had never known any of this, "I never knew any of this." Aria looked down slightly, "I'm not surprised he's always been a private dragon and never really talks about his past. Aside from that, that was...a really hard time for him, he was young and he didn't know how to court back then." Skygazer was silent for a moment or two, "so what happened between them?" she asked. Aria thought back for a moment before speaking, "Draco tried many times to talk to her but she would have none of it. She would either blow fire at him or swat at him with her tail but still he presisted." Skygazer giggled at the thought of another dragon acting that way towards him, "I imagine that bruised his pride a bit." Aria laughed, "yes it did but he was driven because he felt deep within himself that she was as lonely as he was. He wanted to show her that she didn't have to live life alone and that he could be her companion if nothing else. As time went on, she began to warm up to him until one day she spoke to him, giving him her name, Aura." "That's a lovely name...what did she look like?" Skygazer asked. "She was a shy young dragon with scales the color of burnt gold and eyes of green in a sea of yellow. She had healing powers as well as fire but she was unique because she had mastered the art of breathing ice. No dragon before her or since has ever accomplished such a feat," Aria answered. "Wow, she must've been lovely and very skilled as well," Skygazer said. "She was, after a while he brought her here to meet me because he saw me as a mother figure and he wanted my approval," Aria said. "I can understand that and it's only natural," Skygazer commented. Aria nodded her head, "that was the first time I had seen him so happy, he'd had a hard start to life but with her, it's like he was a completely different dragon. He finally felt like he had found where he belonged in this world." Skygazer smiled but inside she was jealous but then she noticed the somber look on Aria's face, "Aria?" she asked. "I'm alright deary it's just...it brings back a lot of memories to me that I haven't thought about in years," Aria answered. Skygazer nodded as she spoke, "I can imagine..." she commented. Aria then became quiet, "those days were really good for him, he was the happiest that I've ever seen him. Until...that day..." she sighed as she continued, "I remember that day so vividly because it was one of the worse ones." "What happened?" Skygazer asked. "Draco and Aura had been out together when a group of the King's men found them. They had been sent to slay any dragon they could find to prevent any trouble with them in the future. Anyway the men were throwing spears and firing arrows and one even shot a sword from a bow. They encircled Aura and injured her quite severly. Draco went in to protect her unaware that he had been injured himself, the men had thrown spears and fired arrows into his body. He did all he could but it was too late, she had been slain and he had been severely injured. His body was covered in dried blood and open wounds so you can imagine what it was like to see him in that state." Skygazer was silent, "I couldn't imagine that..." she looked at her dragon and placed a hand on his claw, "how bad were his injuries?" she asked. "Believe me it wasn't easy...he somehow managed to find the strength to bring his bruised and battered body here before going unconscious. I did all I could to help him heal but it was more than just his physical injuries that needed healing, he was heartbroken over the loss of Aura. He was never the same after that...he became hard...mistrusting and closed himself off from the world," Aria said. Skygazer became very silent after hearing this part before she spoke, "were you ever able to reach him, to bring him back to himself?" she asked. Aria nodded, "it took many years for him to heal over that loss, she was the first mate he'd ever had and it had completely shattered him when she was killed." Skygazer was silent before asking her next question, "did...did they ever...have any eggs?" she asked hestitantly. Aria thought back for several moments before speaking, "in truth I don't really know...after Aura's death he wouldn't speak of her...it hurt him too much."

Skygazer looked at her dragon as she thought back to the first day she met Draco, "I know that when I first met him it was completely by accident. One day a storm came out of nowhere and I became lost in it. I don't know how long I wandered in that storm but I was completely drenched from head to toe. When I came across his cave I went straight inside without even considering that either he or something else was even in there, all I wanted was to get out of the storm. I huddled against the cave wall to wait out the storm but I couldn't get warm because everything I had on was completely drenched from the rain, my cloak included. I must've passed out because the next thing I remember from that day was waking up to a warm fire and a fat rabbit roasting on a stick." Aria found amusement, "clever dragon..." she said looking at Draco as he slept. Skygazer laughed as she continued, "so after eating what I could of the rabbit I went exploring the cave and eventually found the heat pools. When I came across Draco he was sleeping on his bedding in the back of the cave." "You weren't afraid?" she asked. Skygazer shook her head no, "no I was more intrigued that he was even there in the first place. I had heard stories and thought that's all his kind were, just stories. It took a while to gain his trust but once I did he began to soften." Aria had to smile at this, "it is good that you were able to reach him, I did everything I could but he wouldn't let me in. After all those years and raising him, he still wouldn't open up to anyone." Skygazer was surprised that she was able to reach Draco when the woman that had raised him couldn't. She looked at her dragon as she spoke, "he's been through so much..." she murmured. "Yes he has but he's always been a fighter, it's how he's gotten this far," Aria said. Skygazer placed a kiss onto Draco's clawed-hand before nuzzling it lovingly, "I know but I still can't help but be scared for him, especially when he's in this state." "I understand but he is a strong dragon, he will pull through because he has all the reason in the world to get better..." Skygazer looked at Aria, "you...he has you and your love, that alone is enough for him to recover." Skygazer smiled, "I hope you're right Aria...I really do." Aria patted her shoulder before she made her way back over to the table where the ceremonial clothes were laying. Skygazer watched her for an instant before turning her gaze back to her dragon.

Some time later Aria turned in for the night, leaving Skygazer to watch over her dragon alone. She watched him closely as his chest rose and fell as he slept, she silently wondered when he would wake up so they could go back to their cave. She turned her eyes to the window near the bed and saw the constellation that had given Draco his name. "Looking at those stars always make me feel better somehow..." she thought to herself. She was so distracted by her thoughts that she didn't notice someone starting to wake behind her, "hmm...where...where am I?" he thought to himself. He slowly opened his golden eyes to see that he was inside a familiar place, "Aria's hut?" He turned his head to see his beloved looking out the window, "she must be stargazing again.." He carefully reached out to her as he spoke, "gazing at the stars again?" he asked as he placed his claw on her hand that still rested on the bed. Upon hearing his voice Skygazer turned to see her dragon awake, "Draco...you're awake..." she said taking his clawed-hand in hers. He smiled at her, "of course...I knew I had you waiting for me," he said caressing her cheek, being mindful of his claws. Her face softened at seeing him awake as she let relief wash over her, "I was so worried about you.." she murmured as she fought back tears. Draco saw this, "why the tears my jewel?" he asked. Skygazer closed her eyes, as they burned slightly from the salt of her tears, "because...I was afraid...I was afraid that I would never be able to look into your beautiful golden eyes again, that I would never feel your arms around me...that you weren't going to come back to me this time." Draco's face softened, "oh my Sky..." he sat up just enough to be able to wrap his arms around her, "I promised you that I was never going to leave you again and that's a promise I intend to keep.." he said pressing his lips to hers. When they let go of the kiss Skygazer opened her eyes to make her blue gaze meet his golden one. He wiped away her tears with his thumb making sure not to knick her with his claw. She smiled at him as she nuzzled against his palm before kissing it lovingly. He smiled at her affection, "you're so affectionate.." he murmured. A light blush covered her cheeks, "I love you with every beat that my heart makes, it only beats for you..." she replied. He rested his muzzle against her forehead as he spoke, "you are truly a treasure my Sky...I couldn't be happier than I am right now.." he murmured. This gesture was so loving, so gentle, it conveyed to Skygazer just how much he loved her. He pulled back just enough to pull her beside him so he could hold her in his arms as they lay side by side. Now that she was laying in his arms again she completely relaxed and began to feel just how tired she really was. Draco could see it written all over her face, "get some rest my Sky...I'll be laying right here beside you.." he said. As she was too tired to protest she listened to him and settled down into the comfort of his embrace, "I love you Draco..." she whispered as she dozed off. He smiled down at her, "I love you too, my precious treasure..." he whispered before going back to sleep with her in his arms.

When the sun rose the next morning Aria was already awake and putting the finishing touches on the ceremonial clothes, "there...now to check on my 'son'.." she said to herself. She stood from her table and made her way to her room where she knew the dragon was resting but was happy to see that Skygazer was curled up with him and he had his arms around her. She smiled as she allowed a few tears to fall, "thank the elders..." she murmured. She was ready to walk out of the room until she heard a voice behind her, "Aria.." she turned to see Draco looking at her, "it's good to see you awake young one, you had us both worried." He looked down slightly, "how are you feeling?" she asked. Draco was silent for a moment, "I feel strong again, like I did before the rebellion." "That's good that your full strength has been returned to you," Aria commented. Draco nodded, "yes it is, I feel like myself again..." he said. "Even though your strength has completely returned to you, you still have to be careful," Aria said. Draco half rolled his eyes at her, "still being mom..." he thought to himself. She noticed that he had become silent, "I know you don't like me fussing over you but I've always looked upon you as a son and that will never change." Draco had to smile at her words as he locked his gaze with hers, "ever since I was young, you were always there for me. Especially after my parents were killed..." he got very quiet for a moment. Aria took notice, "what is it young one?" she asked. He took a breath as he spoke, "I just...I've just been thinking a lot about everything and I realized that I never truly thanked you for everything you've done for, not just me but my kind and her..." he said glancing down at Skygazer as she still slept in his arms. "Draco...you don't have to thank me, you are my son and I will always do what I can for you. I love you..." she replied. Her words deeply touched his heart and he felt tears well up slightly in his golden eyes, "I love you too...mother..." he said. She smiled at him, "you have never called me that before..." she said. "Well...at the time I was just unsure and afraid. After losing my parents, I guess I was just scared of getting close to someone again because I didn't want to lose them. My heart couldn't take that kind of hurt again..." he replied. She was sympathetic, "I understand how you feel young one," she smiled, "I'll let you rest..." she added as she walked from the room. Draco watched her disappear from the room before turning his gaze back to the woman in his arms. He nuzzled her affectionately before closing his eyes once more to get some more rest.

Later that morning Aria was preparing some food for her and her guests, "come and eat you two..." she called. Draco came walking in with Skygazer by his side and sat at the table with Aria. As they ate there was a comfortable silence until Skygazer asked, "I noticed you were working on the ceremonial clothes last night. How do they look?" Aria got a gleam in her eye at the question, "after we eat I'll show you.." she replied. Hearing this made the couple curious as to what she had created for them, "I wonder..." Draco said to himself as they enjoyed the food. He was pleasantly surprised that she had fixed his favorite, seasoned mutton, "this brings back memories..." he thought to himself. A bit later the couple came to the back room where Aria had placed the clothes she had created for them. Draco couldn't help but remember when he first woke up as he stepped into the back room. When they lay their eyes on the clothes Aria had created they were speechless, "Aria...these are beautiful..." Skygazer said running her hand against the soft fabric of her dress. "Yeah it's exquisite..." Draco complimented. "I'm glad you think so..." she said before continuing, "when you were here last I asked if you had given her the symbol of your bond and love." "Yes..." "And did you?" she asked. "Yes I did, I carved her a beautiful rose from crystal that I found in a cavern not far from our cave," Draco replied. Aria nodded, "be sure to have it with you for the ceremony...it will play a very important role in the ceremony," she said. "We will..." Draco said. "What kind of role?" Skygazer asked curiously. "You'll see..." Draco said kissing her temple. "Good..." Aria turned to the couple to look at them fully, "now that you have the symbol of your love and bond, we need to prepare for the ceremony. I know that you want to have the ceremony held in your ancestral home," she said. "Yes I do, I know the last thing my parents told me was that the tradition was that when we dragons bond to a human, it was to be held in the cavern of crystal and the incantation spoken..." he became very quiet, "it's one of the last times I can remember hearing my mother's voice..." he wore a very soft look on his face. Skygazer placed an arm around his back, being mindful of wings as she nuzzled against his chest affectionately. Draco rested his chin on top of her head as he was grateful for the comfort she offered him. Aria knew he was closer to his mother than he was to his father but it still made him emotional to think about either of them. "When do we hold the ceremony?" Skygazer asked. Aria thought for a moment as she remembered her ceremony, "it's held at sunset..." she replied. The couple nodded, "I will bring the clothes with me to the cavern while you bring your symbol of your love and bond," Aria said. "Alright," Draco said. "How will you get there?" Skygazer asked. "I can use a spell that will teleport me there," Aria answered. The sorceress came around the table to embrace Draco lovingly, "I am so happy that you have found someone so special to share your life with." He smiled at his 'mother', "thank you mother..." he said returning the gentle embrace. Aria then turned to Skygazer and embraced her with same amount of love, "I will see you two tomorrow at sunset," she said. With that the couple made their way outside to return to their cave so they could prepare themselves for the ceremony.

When they arrived to their cave cabin they dismounted from Skygazer's mare, "well even though it was different circumstances I'm still happy that we got to spend time with her," Draco said. "Oh me too, she's such a wonderful woman and so kind," Skygazer added. "She is...I feel so fortunate that she's in both of our lives," Draco replied. Skygazer smiled, "me too.." she replied. While Skygazer saw to her mare Draco decided to go to the hot springs as he wanted to feel the soothing hot water on his scales, "I'm gonna go to the hot springs and soak..." Skygazer looked at her dragon, "alright I'll be there in a bit if you want some company," she said with a glint in her eye. Draco smiled a toothy grin at her, "I would never refuse you..." he replied. She giggled, "ok I'll be there after I see to her," she said walking towards the stall leading her mare. Draco watched her for an instant before walking down the tunnel that led to the hot springs.

When he reached it he breathed in deeply, letting the steam from the pools clear his mind and senses, "this always relaxes me," he sighed as he stepped into the hot water. He sat on on his knees on the boulder at the side of the pool, "ahhh..." he sighed. He rested his head on his arms on the side of the pool with his back facing the center of the pool. He flexed his wings in the water, allowing them to be cleansed of the dirt and pollen they had accumulated after the flights he had taken. Draco then moved to a deeper part of the pool to completely dunk himself beneath the water. It wasn't often that he would take a dip in the water unless it was a hot day. While under water he kept his eyes open because of the clear inner lid that covered his eyes, he was able to see underwater with no problem. He tilted his head upward to see a figure standing beside the pool so when he came up the clear lids that covered his eyes retracted, "there's my beautiful jewel.." he murmured. She smiled at him, "looking underwater again?" she teased as she knew of the clear lids that dragons had so they could see underwater. He chuckled as he shook his head free of water, "you know I do like to swim..." he commented as he sat on the side of the pool. Skygazer took note how his scaly body looked all covered in water, "his scales shimmer like gold.." she said to herself. Draco's keen sight saw his little woman admiring his body as it glistened with water. He moved his golden orbs to look at her shimmering sky-blue ones and when she caught him looking at her, a blush covered her cheeks, which made him smirk, making his teeth show. With his keen sight on her, she removed her soft clothes and dipped herself into the water. The heated water soothed her body and cleansed her mind of worries. She dipped herself beneath the water to rid her hair and face of dirt and dust but when she came back up she found Draco standing in the water in front of her. Being so close to him in this way made her cheeks flame with warmth as she hesitantly ran her finger across the scale that covered his heart before looking up at him. He smiled down at her as he dipped lower in the water to lift her into his arms.

They stood there for a few moments as they enjoyed their closeness. In the low light Skygazer noticed how much Draco's eyes glowed and she also saw flecks of gold on his scales as they continued to glisten with water. Draco too was taking note of how beautiful Skygazer was in the low light, with her wet skin and hair, it created almost a halo around her head. When he looked into her eyes, the moonlight that shone through the hole in the roof of the cave, reflected off the water...illuminating her eyes, making them sparkle. He became lost in her beautiful gems as gold met blue. Skygazer too was mesmerized by the shining golden orbs of her dragon and she couldn't stop looking into them. Each not wanting to look away from the other they became lost in the each other's gaze as their bodies seem to move of their own free will. They found themselves moving closer to one another until there were mere inches between them. Not fighting against their instincts, they pressed their lips together in a tender kiss. Somehow this one was different from every other kiss they had ever shared, it held all their love, all their devotion and all their desire that they held within their hearts. When they let go of the kiss their eyes met and Skygazer noticed something different in her dragon's eyes, they were glistening in a way they hadn't before. Draco felt his heart race with this woman being so near him and his eyes conveyed his heart and deepest desires, "my Sky..." he breathed out, almost breathlessly. Skygazer could feel what he was feeling as her heart raced in her chest, "Draco..." she breathed. With the desire in their voices they gave into them as they began to make love as they never had before. Draco lifted Skygazer up into his arms and moved to the side of the pool where it had been washed away, he sat in the depression in the stone and pulled Skygazer into his lap. She straddled his waist, letting the tip of his exposed shaft tickle her entrance. Feeling the sensation sent shivers up her spine and made her breath hitch in her throat. Draco placed his large clawed-hands at her hips to steady her as she lowered herself onto his stiff dragon girth, which caused a pleasure-filled growl to erupt from his throat. He began to pant slightly at the feeling of her tight cavern around his member but this time he felt such passion, that he began making sounds that Skygazer had never heard him make before. A mix of low soft growls and purrs emanated from the dragon's throat, Skygazer had once heard the term thrum mentioned and she knew this was what Draco was doing now with the sounds he was making. She also remembered the meaning behind the thrum, it was a courting sound that male dragons would use on a female to convey their intentions to her. That they were a potentional mate and this was their way of talking. The feeling of his chest vibrating against her body made it tingle in ways it never had before, this was new for her but she enjoyed the feeling it gave her. As if on instinct she responded by nuzzling beneath his neck and making a purring sound with her tongue, remembering that it was the sound that female dragons would use to respond to the males. It felt so natural to her to do this with him, in the nature that he was custom to, the way he was taught. Draco was surprised by her actions but it pleased him, that his intended understood the courtship and mating ritual. He traced his tongue along her neck, stopping beneath her ear to place a small nip there. Skygazer began to move up and down slightly, feeling every inch of him fill her wet intimate crevice. Draco groaned out at this feeling as it seem to ignite something deep within his body and made his heart pound in his chest. Skygazer's heart too was racing wildly in her chest as she started to feel him thrust upwards into her with such passion and love that she felt their connection deepen. They ran their hands and claws over each other, to feel as much of the others body as they could. Skygazer planted her lips onto Draco's in a passionate kiss as she conveyed to him her deepest love for him, to which he returned with the same love he had for her. A moment or two passed with them kissing but it quickly gave way to their panting as their passion became more heated. Skygazer was panting for every breath she took as she moaned out his name, "Draco...oh yes..." He let a purr pass through his lips, "my Sky..." he murmured into her ear sending shivers up her spine. The fire burned hotter between them and with several very passionate thrusts Draco roared as Skygazer moaned out his name, "Draco..." They stayed still for several moments, their bodies shuddering slightly from their exertions. He twitched within her as he released his seed into her waiting body and she clenched tightly around his girth. After several moments of them panting they shared a gentle kiss as he nuzzled her cheek with his muzzle and continued with his thrum. She shivered slightly at his sounds before returning the nuzzle and placing a kiss on his muzzle. He disconnected from her as she moved to sit beside him, to enjoy the hot water for a bit longer.

Silence passed between them, both content to just enjoy their closeness and Skygazer let a content sigh pass through her lips, "*sigh*..." Draco turned his head to look at the beauty beside him, "my Sky...darling you alright?" he asked. "Hmm...oh of course dear, I'm just content that's all.." she replied. He nodded in understanding, "I am too but I'm also thinking about our binding ceremony tomorrow." This caught her attention, "yeah...me too..." she murmured, in truth she was a bit nervous but excited at the same time. Draco's tail spike flexed slightly beneath the water as he spoke, "to be honest I never thought I would ever be a part of the binding ceremony. For us dragons to find a mate is fairly simple." Skygazer glanced up at him as he continued, "if a female finds a male suitable they become a mated pair, there's no ceremony involved," he explained. Skygazer couldn't help but think about what Aria had told her about Draco's past and she wondered if she should ask or if it was a tender subject like his parents were. So she simply decided to ask, "long before we met...did you ever have a mate?" she asked. Draco was caught off guard by the question but when he looked into her sparkling blue gems, he saw she was genuinely curious. He looked down slightly as he spoke, "I did once...but it was so long ago I don't really remember much. After all that trouble with the rebellion everything is a blur really." Skygazer knew what the truth was but she didn't want to push Draco if he didn't want to talk about it, "I can imagine but still," he looked at her, "I can't help but be curious..." she stated. He smiled as he licked her cheek, "I know.." he replied softly. "So is there anything else to the binding ceremony than what Aria told us?" Skygazer asked. Draco thought for a moment before answering, "the only other thing I can think of is that a dragon shares his blood with the human he chooses to bind to." "Sharing blood?" she questioned. "Yeah, aside from the ceremony that binds them as a couple they share blood, it ensures that the human will have the lifespan of the dragon they are bound to," he explained. "So it's kinda like when you share your heart?" Skygazer asked. "Yeah in a way," he replied. Skygazer nodded as she let a yawn pass through her lips, "come..we should turn in for the night," Draco said nuzzling her gently. "Alright..." she replied tiredly. Draco stood first then offered his hand to her, which made her smile. She planted a kiss on his lips before grabbing her clothes and getting dressed. Once dressed Draco lifted her into his arms and carried her all the way back to their cabin and being too tired to protest, she allowed him to do it. Upon reaching their cabin Draco opened the door and carried her to their room to lay her down on their bed. He pulled the covers over her before laying down beside her and wrapping his arm around her small frame, "goodnight my precious treasure..." he murmured. When she didn't respond he looked down at her to see she was peacefully sleeping, he smiled before laying his head down, burying his nose into her hair as he let sleep overtake him.

When dawn came the next morning it found the dragon already awake and sitting on the top of the cave watching as the sun crest over the horizon. He had awoken early after a dream had disturbed his rest, it was a dream that he hadn't had since before he met Bowen and Skygazer. He had to admit to himself that he had thought about her during the rebellion but he was also focused on so many things that he couldn't really think straight. Besides at the time though he had gotten very close to Skygazer, she had somehow softened his heart and made him fall in love with her. He would always be grateful to Skygazer because she had saved his life and taught him how to love again. As he watched the sun begin to rise into the sky he found himself smiling because today was the day he was to be bound to the woman he loved more than anything. He had never known what true love felt like before they had met, she had captured his heart in a way that not even his past mate had done. There was always something special about Skygazer that both intrigued and fasinated him. She was always so kind and caring towards him, even when he was having a bad day she always knew how to make him smile again. He was brought out of his thoughts when a voice reached his ears, "Draco..." he looked down to see Skygazer standing at the entrance of their cave home, "good morning my jewel." She smiled at him, "morning handsome, what are you doing up there?" she asked. "I was watching the sunrise..." he looked thoughtfully at her, "would you like to join me?" he asked. "I'd love to," she replied. He opened his wings and flew down to her, picked her up in his arms and flew back up to sit atop the cave to watch the sunrise with her. She stood there for a moment as she spoke, "it's so beautiful..." Draco was quiet as he was mesmerized by her beauty in the early morning light. The light rays made her hair shine as if she wore a halo upon her head and the gentle breeze blew her hair around her face, she truly was a vision. He wrapped his arm around her waist as she rested her head on his shoulder, "it's so peaceful this morning..." she commented. "It is...especially with you here with me.." he said kissing her temple. Skygazer was content being with him like this, it made her happy. "When do we leave for your ancestral home?" she asked. "Well the ceremony won't be held until sunset but if you like we can leave a bit earlier, besides I'd like to show you where I came from," he replied. Skygazer thought for a moment before giving him her answer, "I'd like that...besides I am a little curious." He smiled at her, "alright."

After watching the sunrise they prepared to leave for Draco's ancestral mountain, "how far is it?" Skygazer asked. "It's quite a distance from here, only way to get there is to fly," he answered before transforming into his smaller dragon form. Skygazer had retrieved their belongings and placed them into a pack to strap to the saddle. "I look forward to seeing it..." she commented as she placed her saddle on his back, "is that too tight?" she asked, adjusting the straps. "No it's set comfortably," he replied as he had become accustomed to her use of the saddle. Once she had the saddle fitted she placed their pack onto his back and strapped it to the rings on the back of it. She was clad in her armor her dragon had made for her, as she was unsure as to what they might encounter once they reached those mountains. Over her shoulder was a satchel that held her treasures from the trunk she kept at the foot of her bed, along with the crystal rose he had carved for her, wrapped in a cloth to keep it from being broken. Her sword she always carried was attached to her armor and resting comfortably against her back. "Are we ready to go?" he asked her. "Yeah I believe so..." she looked back at her mare as she ran through things in her mind. After a moment or two she placed her foot into the stirrup and got onto his back, "are you ready to see those mountains again?" she asked. Draco was slightly hesitant but answered, "yeah I think so..." even though he didn't sound so sure. With one last look at his cave Draco raised his wings high before using his powerful leg muscles to propel them into the air.

As they flew through the air Draco felt his heart race in his chest, he felt lighter than he ever felt in his life. He was on his way to the mountain where he was born, with the woman he loved more than anything to be bound to her for the rest of their lives. Skygazer had so much happiness racing through her, she was flying with her dragon, the only dragon she had ever known and who had ever captured her heart. On the way to his ancestral mountain to be bound to him for all time and her heart raced. They had never imagined that this would have been their path but they couldn't be happier than they were right now. Skygazer completely relaxed in the saddle as they continued on their way, "somehow being up here makes everything else seem to disappear..." she said to herself. Draco had been quiet for most the flight as he was deep in his thoughts, he was silently wondering what lay ahead for them after today. He still remembered when he had asked Bowen the night before the battle if he had thought beyond that day. He was now asking himself that question, "it's hard to see that far..." he murmured. Skygazer looked down at her dragon, "what did you say?" she asked. Realizing he had been thinking out loud he shook his head slightly, "it's nothing my Sky...just remembering a question I once asked a certain Knight." Hearing this intrigued her, "what question?" she asked. "The night before the rebellion I asked him if he had thought beyond tomorrow? His answer was it's hard to see that far..." he said. Skygazer tilted her head slightly but as she thought about it she decided to ask her dragon the same question, "have you thought beyond tomorrow?" she asked. He glanced over his shoulder at her briefly as he wondered why she would ask him the same question. However he thought about it and realized what she meant, "it's hard to see that far..." Skygazer turned her gaze away from him but was surprised when he continued, "but...I do know this, whatever lies ahead for us beyond tomorrow, it will be filled with happiness because we will have each other." Skygazer looked down to see him smiling at her and she leaned forward to hug him briefly before sitting back up in the saddle.

The dragon smiled as he soared across the sky, he was feeling himself and briefly looked over his shoulder at her again, "hang on Sky..." he said. Skygazer locked her feet into the saddle and held to the saddlehorn as Draco faced forward and began to fly a bit faster, "what are you doing?" she asked curiously. "You'll see..." he replied playfully. She cocked an eyebrow at him but still held tight to the saddle as she recieved her answer when he began to flap his mighty wings faster before doing a barrelroll and a double loop through the air. He powered them a bit longer before raising his head high, blowing a ring of smoke and flying through it. Skygazer could tell he was showing off a little and she had to admit that she was enjoying it, "you show off..." she replied playfully. He chuckled, "you know I don't believe I ever showed you some of my aerial acrobatics.." he said as he returned to his normal flying pace. "No I don't believe so but I will say I enjoyed it," she smiled, "it's good to see that you seem more like yourself than you did before." "I do feel like myself again..." he replied. "So I have a question for you...when you were young did you ever show off for any of the females?" she asked. Hearing this caught him off guard slightly, to where he glanced over his shoulder at her before answering, "well..." he thought for a moment, "there was a time I did show off for a few of the females but back then...that's what we males would do. It was a way for us to show our strength, to prove we could be good mates for them one day. Being the youngest though they never really paid any attention to me." She was silent as her thoughts ran wildly in her head, "did you show off for Aura too?" she thought to herself. She was brought out of her thoughts by his voice, "why so curious about my past?" he wondered. "Oh no reason I just...I was just uh..." she looked away from him. He noticed that something was on her mind so he decided to ask, "is there something on your mind?" She bit her lip as she pondered whether or not to ask about the mate he had long ago, "no not really..." she lied. Draco could tell she wasn't being honest, "you may be able to lie to other humans but you can't fool me..." he said in a tone she had never heard before. A gasp escaped her lips at hearing him almost scold her, "it's just that..." she clutched the rose quartz charm around her neck nervously. Draco knew from her silence that she was nervous about talking about what was on her mind. He decided to let the matter drop for now as he focused on getting them to land of his birth. Skygazer had been silent most of the flight after the slight incident, she felt bad because she was holding onto jealousy of a dragoness that had died long ago. She couldn't help it, even though it had been long before she was ever born she still felt jealous that he had loved another before her. She thought about it for the longest time, "I need to share my thoughts with him or risk messing up the best thing I ever had." She was about to speak when the dragon spoke, "look down there..." he said pointing. She leaned sideways slightly to have a look at what he was pointing at, "what is it?" she asked. "It's the edge of the mountain territory, we're not far from my ancestral home..." he stated. Skygazer looked at the landscape below her and she marveled at all she saw, "wow it's so vast...far more so than I was expecting.." she said. He nodded his head, "yeah it's been so long since I've been here I had forgotten that myself."

Now with her mind on gazing at the vast expance of landscape below she set aside her thoughts for now. Draco's keen sight scanned the ground below, "it appears nothing has been here since the dragonslayers attack," he commented. He scanned for several moments more before spotting the mountain where he was born, "look there my Sky..." he said. She turned her gaze to look, "there it is...my mountain home..." he added. She was silent for a moment as Draco circled above to look for a spot to land. Skygazer was scanning as well, "look there's an opening..." she said. He saw that she was right, "good eye...if I didn't know better I'd say you were part dragon..." he chuckled. She giggled as she held to the saddlehorn, "I don't know about that..." she replied. Draco circled the mountain once more before coming to the entrance they had spotted. He scanned it carefully before landing on the ledge, "made it..." he breathed. Skygazer stayed on his back as he entered the cave entrance, "it's much larger than I thought it was." "It had to be...was the only way we could get in and out of here," he stated. He walked further down the tunnel before coming to an open area of the cave with the sun shining through the hole in the roof. "Wow...is this the main chamber?" she asked. He turned his head to look at her, "it is...most of the clan would stay in here all the time but there are a few smaller caves, they were either for the hatchlings or mated pairs," he explained. Skygazer looked around for a few moments before she slipped from Draco's back to stand beside him, "the air is different in here..." she commented. He brought his head down to her level, "I know...it still feels as it did long ago...I can still feel the presence of my clan in here." She looked at him thoughtfully before embracing him while he nuzzled against her body, she placed a kiss on his muzzle before removing the saddle from his back.

Once she had removed it Draco stretched out his body and wings before laying on his stomach to rest for an instant before they explored. Skygazer leaned against the saddle as she looked up at her dragon, still with a burning question in her mind. As if sensing it he brought his hand up to rest his chin on as he spoke, "so...do want to tell me what was bothering you earlier to where you would try and lie to me?" he asked arching a scaly brow. This caught her off guard and she looked away from him as she fidgeted with her charm nervously. She was silent for the longest time because she knew he had his gaze resting on her and it made her feel even more nervous, "you know whatever it is you can talk to me about it...you know I won't get mad..." he reassured. She looked up to meet his gaze to see the sincerity in his golden eyes and she knew he had spoken the truth. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly, "back at Aria's hut...while you were unconscious, I was asking her about when you were young. She told me about after the dragonslayer attack and how the others would tease you, how you spent most of your time alone." Draco raised his head from his hand slightly as she continued, "then...she told me how you...how you crossed paths with..." she couldn't bring herself to say the name as she looked away from him again. Draco was silent as he looked at the woman in front of him, "oh my Sky..." he transformed back into his humanoid form before approaching and kneeling in front of her. At first she refused to meet his gaze but upon him placing his claw beneath her chin she looked at him, "is that what's been bothering you?" he asked. She looked down slightly, "I know it was long before I was even born but I don't know I can't help but feel a little jealous of her." Draco's eyes softened as he took her by the hand and stood, bringing her with him. He caressed her cheek gently before embracing her, "it's true that Aura was my first mate and while I did have love for her..." he pulled back to lock his golden eyes with her blue ones, "what she and I had back then doesn't even compare to what you and I have now." "Really?" she asked. "Yes..." he caressed her cheek lovingly as he continued, "you are the one and only human woman that I have loved or will ever love. Before our paths crossed I had considered taking my own life because I felt the loss so deeply, I only thought of ending the pain I felt. When I met you, I was afraid...afraid because I felt if I got close to you...then something would happen to you too." Skygazer's face softened slightly, "aw Draco..." she murmured. "It's true, after what happened with my parents and Aura, I kept myself closed off from feeling anything or forming any kind of bond with anyone because I knew my heart couldn't take anymore of the pain I had already been through. But the day I met you...I tried, I tried so hard to keep my walls up but somehow...you found a way to break those walls down." She smiled at him as he continued, "you found a way to heal my heart and in doing so," he kissed her knuckles, "made me fall in love with you..." he said kissing her lips. She returned the kiss as she placed her hand on his that still rested on her cheek. She nuzzled his palm before looking into his eyes, "you taught me to love again and for that I will always be grateful to you...my precious treasure..." he murmured before kissing her once more and deepening it by placing his hand on the back of her neck. Skygazer felt her heart race in her chest when he captured her lips in a kiss and she also felt their bond strengthen. They kissed for several moments before breaking away for air, "come...I want to show you around..." he said after a moment or two. "Ok..." she said placing her hand in his and allowing him to lead her around.

They walked around the cave wandering from one chamber to the next until they came to one that was immensely larger than the rest, "wow why is this one so much larger than the others?" she asked. Draco's face softened as did his voice, "this was the one that my parents resided in..." Skygazer looked at her dragon as he continued, "this is also where I was born.." he said letting go of her hand for an instant. She watched him intently as he inspected the chamber closely, "I still remember it so vividly..." he turned to look at her, "mother had the nest fixed up here," he said standing in the spot, "my parents always slept on either side of the nest, it was the best way to protect the eggs." Skygazer nodded her head to let him know she had heard him, she watched him a few moments more before asking her question, "you have copper colored scales...did either of your parents have them too? Or were they a different color?" she asked. Draco was silent for several moments as he tried to recall them in his mind. Skygazer watched his face, noticing the slight twitches his eyes would make. While she patiently waited for him to answer she scanned the ground beneath the dragon's clawed-feet until something caught her eye, "hey what's that?" Being brought out of his thoughts he looked at her, "what is it?" he asked. He watched as Skygazer made her way over to where there was a pile of grass still laying on the floor, kneel down in front of it to run her fingers through it until she picked up what she had seen, "this..." she said holding it up to look at it closely. Draco approached to stand in front of his woman as she held a scale in her hands, "it's one of my mother's scales..." he said in almost a whisper. Skygazer turned her gaze to Draco's face to see a soft look written there. She gently placed the scale into his claw so he could look at it, "it's a beautiful color..." she said.

Draco smiled, "she was one of the most beautiful dragons in the whole clan...she was a unique color from most. She was as white as new fallen snow, when the sunlight shone on her scales, they glistened like diamonds." Skygazer could hear the emotion in his voice as he spoke, "what color was your father?" she asked. He turned his gaze from his mother's scale to look at Skygazer, "he was unique in his own right...his scales were the color of storm clouds." Skygazer found amusement in that, "it's any wonder that you turned out the color you did then." Draco smiled and nodded, "yeah everyone always said that we were the three most unique dragons in the clan, and I can't help but wonder if any of my siblings had hatched what color they might've been or what personality they would've had." Skygazer nuzzled against his shoulder affectionately as she spoke, "I think you were a gift for your parents..." she said. He nodded his head before placing his mother's scale back into Skygazer's hands, "please hang onto this for me." She smiled, "of course..." she gently placed the white scale in her pouch at her hip before taking hold of his hand in hers. There was silence for the longest time as Draco brought Skygazer over to sit on a large rock in the corner of the large chamber. They still held to each other's hand while Skygazer kept her head on his shoulder, nuzzling against it affectionately every so often. Draco was grateful for the comfort Skygazer offered him now, knowing that coming back here would bring back old memories, many of them painful. After a few moments Skygazer spoke, "are you ok? I know this place brings back some memories...not all of them good." Draco looked down slightly, "yeah...I'm ok, I've just been remembering being young, being so innocent to what the world was like beyond this mountain. There are times I long for that feeling again...to not know what cruelty there is out there." He flexed his wings slightly and whipped his tail in annoyance, "if only those times hadn't been ripped away from me..." he said. Skygazer was sympathetic to how Draco was feeling now and gave the hand she still held a comforting squeeze which made him turn his gaze to her, "I wish I could take all that pain and frustration you feel away, I don't like to see you hurting.." she replied. Draco gave her a gentle smile before pressing his lips to hers in a tender kiss. As they shared the kiss a memory came back to him and it was from the night before the rebellion.

Memory:

Draco still lay on the hilltop, after Bowen had gone to turn in for the night, with his head filled with so many thoughts and feelings. He was staring out into the distance as a voice reached his ears, "enjoying the sunset again?" asked the soft voice. At hearing her voice he felt himself smile as he turned his head to look at her, "you know me well..." he commented as he watched her approach. She stood there for a moment before she spoke, "I saw Bowen walking back to camp as I was coming up here.." she stated. "Yeah he wanted some kind of clarity I suppose..." the dragon replied. Skygazer looked down slightly before looking up into his golden gaze, "what about you?" she asked as she leaned against his side. He glanced down at her briefly before looking back at the last remnants of the sunset sky, "for me there's only one way for it to end..." he said sadly. Skygazer's eyes quivered slightly at his statement because she knew it too but she didn't want to think of a world without him. She had become very fond of him and in truth she had fallen in love with him. Despite him being a dragon, he had captured her heart in a way that no human man ever could. As if sensing her mood Draco looked down at her before bringing his head down to her level and upon doing so he noticed the tears welling up in her eyes, "my Sky..." he murmured. She refused to look at him as she didn't want him to see her tears, "I can't..." Draco was confused at her statement, "I can't look beyond tomorrow because I know what it will mean..." she said covering her face with her hands. Even though she hid her face from him, he could still smell her tears that she shed...shed for him. It hurt him to see her this way but he wasn't sure of how to comfort her, he had noticed over the past couple days since his return from Avalon that she had been staying closer to him. She sobbed silently beside him, it pained her greatly because after tomorrow, he would be gone and there would be no way to bring him back. She was powerless to stop it no matter how hard she wished to, "I don't want to think of you being gone..." she sobbed. Draco's face softened and he brought his claw up to pull her close to him, she was surprised by this gesture as he had never done this before, "oh my Sky...I know how you feel..." she cut him off and pulled away from him, "no you don't know how I feel...you don't know at all. You don't know how much I hurt, how much my heart hurts because after tomorrow you'll be gone and I can't do anything to stop it. I want more than anything to be able save you from what's gonna happen because I love you and I won't be able to go on without you..." she blurted out as she openly began to sob. Draco's eyes widened slightly and he wasn't sure what to say now, "my Sky..." he murmured as he reached out to her. She kept her back to him as she spoke, "I wasn't looking for this at all but as time passed and we spent time together I found myself developing feelings for you." Draco's half-heart began to pound in his chest at her words, "Sky..." he breathed. "I know it's impossible and it would never work between us," she turned to look up at him with her eyes still brimming with tears, "but I can't help it and I don't care...you are the only being that has ever captured my heart the way you have."

Draco looked at her for a moment or two as she stood there with her eyes closed and her tears flowing down her face. He had to admit that he had grown very fond of her too and as he looked back at their time together he realized that he felt the same way she did. He knew he had to convey his feelings to her somehow, to let her know that she wasn't alone in her heartache. "My Sky..." he spoke softly to her and upon looking up at him, he surprised her by bringing his head down to her level and pressing his dragon lips to hers. Her eyes widened considerably, this wasn't what she was expecting from him and she couldn't move. Her face burned brightly with a blush that covered her cheeks, this was their first kiss and she felt her heart race in her chest, "I never imagined he would feel the same way about me too." Dragons never kissed their mates, it was something only humans did but it was the only thing Draco knew to do. Letting go of the kiss Draco brought his claw up to cup her face gently, "you are not alone in your heartache my Sky..." he said bringing her close to embrace her gently, being careful not to hurt her. She felt her eyes quiver as tears filled them once more, she buried her face into his neck as she placed her hand where his half-heart was, "I love you Draco..." she murmured as her tears flowed down her face. Draco knew he had finally been able to convey his heart to her and if this was to be his last night, then he wanted to spend it with her, "I love you too my beautiful Sky." In that moment both Draco and Skygazer knew they had found what they had always longed for, someone to love and who would love them in return. They held to each other for the longest time, both not wanting this to end. They wanted to be able to spend their lives together and wished with all their hearts they could stop what was to happen come daybreak. When they fell asleep that night they did so wrapped in each other's arms, holding to one another as if they were their lifeline.

End of Memory:

When they let go of the kiss Draco caressed her face gently, being mindful of his sharp claws, "am I interrupting something?" came a voice from behind them. The couple turned to see Aria standing there but were surprised to see that she was no longer a wrinkled old woman. She had revealed her true nature to them for the occasion, "Aria? Is that you?" asked Skygazer. "It is deary.." she replied. Draco's jaw hung open slightly, "I never knew..." he was speechless. The sorceress laughed in amusement at the couple's reaction to her true self. She had shed her old woman shell to reveal her true beauty that had only ever been shown to her beloved dragon long ago. Her wavy gray hair had been replaced with long flowing rare rose-blonde hair, her wrinkled skin was replaced with fair skin that had been kissed by the sun's rays. Her old tattered robes were swapped with an elegant, shimmering golden dress. Her hair was adorned with a hair ornament of shining gold bejeweled with rubies and emeralds. On her wrists, neck and hands she wore a ruby and emerald bangle, necklace and ring. The pair were speechless, "I thought it was only proper to show you my true self as it is a special occasion," Aria said. Skygazer approached her as she spoke, "you're a vision..." she complimented. "You two are fortunate...I've only shown this form to one other," she said. It was Draco who spoke, "my great-grandfather.." he stated. She smiled and nodded, "now it's time for you two to prepare for the ceremony.." she said as she pulled from her pack their ceremonial clothes. "This one deary is yours..." she said looking at Skygazer. The clothing had been wrapped in a cloth and the young woman gratefully accepted it with a gentle bow. Aria smiled at her before turning to the dragon she had raised, "and this young one, is yours..." she replied as she gently placed the cloth-wrapped clothing in his claws, "thank you Aria..." he replied. Aria nodded as she spoke, "once you both are dressed then we can begin.." she stated, "I also took the liberty of setting up places for you two to get dressed," she turned to the dragon, "wouldn't be fitting to see your bride before the ceremony..." she said with a wink. Draco chuckled as he made his way over to the place she had set up for him while Skygazer made her way over to the opposite chamber to get dressed.

Skygazer removed her armor and soft clothes, leaving on only her under wraps. She couldn't help but notice a scar at her hip and the memory of how close she came to dying that day came to her mind. She shook her head as she turned her attention to the cloth and the clothes held within. She lay the parcel on a large stone as she untied the cord that held the cloth together, "I wonder how this will look once I put it on..." she said to herself as she remembered the way her dress had looked. After untying the cord she lay it aside in order to pull the cloth back, to look upon her dress again. Upon pulling the cloth back she was able to rest her bright blue eyes on it again, "still as beautiful as I remember.." she murmured. She carefully pulled it from the cloth to hold it up to herself, "do you need some help?" asked a voice. Skygazer jumped slightly when she heard Aria speak to her, "yeah I think so.." she replied. Aria then gently held back the cloth she had hung up and stepped into the chamber, "here let me help you.." she said kindly. "Thank you Aria..." Skygazer said. Aria held the dress so she could step into it before the back was laced up, "is that comfortable for you?" she asked. "Yeah it is...Aria you do amazing work..." Skygazer complimented. The sorceress merely smiled as she spoke, "it is a skill I have honed for many years and have perfected it." Skygazer smiled, "there you go deary.." Aria said. Skygazer took a moment to take in all the designs of the dress, it was a beautiful shade of blue with a silver, v-shaped dragonscale pattern etched into the fabric of the corset, as well as intricate swirls that encircled and framed the pleated fabric of the bust. At the hips shiny, silver, mirror image dragons were embroidered at the seamline, also with the same intricate pattern encompassing both dragons. The skirt of the dress though the same shade of blue as the corset, faded into white as it went to the bottom of the dress. At the shoulders was the same fabric as the skirt, a beautiful blue that faded into white hung down her back, it was also capped by an ornate silver piece of ornament, bejeweled with tiny sapphires and pearls. Hanging from it was tiny silver chains that was sparkling with tiny sapphires, dangling from the chains. At the neckline was another silver chain that held a deep blue sapphire that rested in the middle. Then Aria picked up the bands to be worn on the wrists, "here..." she said placing the ornament, that was bejeweled with tiny sapphires and pearls just like the ones on her shoulders. Once she had them on she looked at Aria, "how do I look?" she asked. Aria smiled at her, "you look stunning but.." she placed her hand on her chin. "But?" Skygazer asked. "Something is missing..." Aria pondered for a moment or two before she spoke again, "here let's fix up your hair." Skygazer stood quietly as she allowed Aria to fix her hair, she pulled part of it back to braid it down Skygazer's back, adorning it with tiny jewels as she went. Once she had it done she fastened the braid with a simple hair pin. She came back around to look at the young woman in front of her, "now for the finishing touch," she said. With a snap of her finger a silver crown appeared in Skygazer's hair, shiny silver shoes on her feet and light make-up was applied to her face. Skygazer looked at herself, "wow...I'm...I'm beautiful..." she said. Aria smiled as she held up a mirror for the young woman to look into, "indeed you are..." she said. Skygazer was left breathless at her reflection in the mirror, "I don't even look like myself..." she murmured. Aria knew that this was a new experience for the young woman, "perhaps not what you're use to but this dress has brought out your true beauty." "My true beauty?" she asked. "Yes...you always tried to be one of the boys, trying to prove that you are as tough as they are but now...it's time for you to see yourself as the beautiful woman that you are," Aria said. Skygazer smiled at the sorceress' words, "now I have to check on Draco...I'll be back in a bit.." she said disappearing behind the curtain. Now alone in the chamber she looked at her reflection a moment more before picking up the crystal rose and clutching it to her chest.

In his chamber Draco had already pulled on the dark blue pants that were adorned with silver designs down the legs. When he removed the armor from the cloth, he ran his finger over the scales, as they seemed familiar to him somehow. He was brought out of his thoughts when he heard Aria's voice, "young one?" she asked. He turned his head to see her standing there, "you ready?" she asked him. Then she noticed the look in his eyes, "what is it young one?" she asked. "This armor...the scales...they seem so familiar somehow..." he said. She smiled at him as she placed a hand on the armor, "this armor has a special meaning because it is made...from your great-grandfather's scales." Hearing this made his mouth hang open slightly, "what?" not believing what he was hearing. "Yes, it was what he wanted for you," she said. He looked at her curiously, "how do you know that?" he asked. She looked down slightly as she spoke, "the day the dragonslayers attacked, after I had made sure you and the other hatchlings were safe, I came back here. I searched for any survivors and while I didn't find any, I did find your great-grandfather, my husband...still clinging to life. I tried to get him to come back to where I had hidden you hatchlings but he refused, he knew his injuries were too great. I sat with him and held him in my arms, but before taking his last breath...his final wish was for me to take his hide and create from it an armor for you. So if you were to bind yourself to a human woman then having this, would be his gift to you." The dragon's eyes widened slightly at hearing this, "he really did this for me?" he asked, his voice wavering slightly. Aria smiled, "it is..." she said placing a gentle hand on his cheek, "it was his way for him to bestow upon you and your intended his blessing." Draco's eyes looked upon the scales of his great-grandfather before she spoke, "let me help you put it on.." she said kindly. He nodded to her before she gently picked up the armor from his hands, she undid the ties on the side and opening where his wings would fit through, "hold it up for me..." she gently instructed. He did as she asked and held the armor against his body while she fastened it at the side and beneath his wings, "how's that?" she asked. He nodded, "it's comfortable..." he stated. "The finishing touch," she said. Draco tilted his head slightly as she snapped her fingers and attached a deep blue cape at the shoulders that was embroidered with mirror image dragons in the middle. He looked at the designs and smiled, "thank you Aria.." he said embracing her lovingly. "Your welcome young one..." she said before disappearing from sight to set up her part of the ceremony. She had set up in the crystal cavern with the items Skygazer had brought with her, as she had allowed her to use them for the ceremony. Aria allowed herself to endulge in her memory of her time in this beautiful place, "oh my love..." she breathed as a stray tear escaped her eye. Aria then raised her hands and as they began to glow, a beautiful melody was heard ringing in the cavern, which would summon the couple to this beautiful place.

In his cavern Draco heard the melody clearly, "here we go..." he said taking a breath before stepping from the chamber and making his way into the cavern where Aria was waiting for him. Skygazer heard the melody too but remained standing where she was, as she remembered that it was tone for Draco to come into the cavern first. Draco walked into the cavern and stood next to Aria as she changed the tone of the melody which told Skygazer to walk in. Upon hearing the change in tone she knew that was her cue, "here we go..." she said to herself as she stepped from the chamber with the rose still clutched in her hand. Upon reaching the crystal cavern she stood there for a moment before taking a few more steps into it. Draco's keen sense of smell made him turn his head to look in the direction but when he did he was left breathless, "by the elders...she...she's a vision...I've never seen her look so beautiful." As she approached Skygazer noticed the look on her dragon's face and she couldn't help but smile at his expression. Once she stood before Aria, the sorceress spoke, "take each other's hands..." she instructed kindly. Draco held his clawed-hands out to the beauty in front of him before she placed the crystal rose on the alter and placed her hands in his, "you look so beautiful..." he murmured, his voice full of emotion. She smiled, "you look very handsome..." she replied. Aria smiled at the pair as she began to speak, "we are gathered in this place to bind you to this human woman you have chosen. You two have been through so much in your lives and it has all led up to this moment." They listened to the words Aria spoke as they kept their eyes on one another. The sorceress then spoke again, "you are bound by more than just your love, to truly share your lives blood must be shared." Taking that as a cue Draco offered his palm to Aria as she drew a ceremonial dagger across it, drawing blood. Aria then turned to Skygazer who then offered her palm as well. Once the blood was drawn she spoke, "press your palms together..." she instructed. As they did this not only did they feel their blood bind together but they listened as Aria spoke the incantation in the dragon tongue, "to this heart you bind as one, to share in each others strengths in body and mind. To intertwine your hearts and souls to one another, to become as one from now until the end of time." Then they were both surprised when the crystal rose began to glow as did Draco's eyes as they had done before but this time the light enveloped them both in an almost blinding light. Skygazer didn't know what was happening but she closed her eyes and in that instant she felt herself and Draco float into the air as her soul intertwined with Draco's in a way she couldn't explain. As Aria finished speaking the incantation the light faded and the couple landed back in front of the crystal dragon skull, their cuts were healed and the rose was now placed in Skygazer's hair next to her crown. After a moment or two Aria spoke once more, "you two are now bound, sharing in all things the way mated pairs should, now seal your love with a kiss..." said the sorceress. Draco brought Skygazer in close before pressing his lips to hers in a kiss that told her just how much he loved her. When they let go of the kiss they looked at Aria, "congratulations you two.." she said. "Thanks Aria..." Skygazer replied. "Thanks mother..." Draco added. "What will you do now?" Skygazer asked. Aria became very quiet, "now I go to rest...for a time then return to my hut.." she answered. Skygazer was curious, "will you stay in this form or return to your disguise?" "I shall return to my disguise and live as I have for many centuries but I shall always be there if you ever need me," Aria said before she teleported back to her hut leaving the lovers alone.

After a moment or two of silence Skygazer spoke, "your armor is stunning...is it made from dragonscales?" she asked. Draco nodded, "my great-grandfather's.." he answered. This made her curious, "how?" she asked. "It was his dying wish, this armor is his gift to me and a way to bestow upon us and our bond, his blessing," he said. Skygazer had to smile at hearing this and remained silent for several moments. Draco nuzzled her affectionately as he spoke, "let's go home..." he replied. She nodded and gathered her belongings then returned to the chamber to change back into her armor Draco had made for her. After she gotten changed she placed her treaures back in the satchel she had brought them in as well as wrapped the crystal rose back in the cloth so it wouldn't get broken. She folded her dress back up and placed it, the armbands, crown and shoes back in the cloth before retying the cord around it. She placed the parcel in her satchel before making her way over towards Draco who had placed his armor, cape and pants back in the cloth before placing it in the satchel Skygazer had over her shoulder. Once they had gathered up everything they made their way back to the main chamber where the saddle had been resting. Draco transformed into his smaller dragon form so she could place the saddle on his back and strap it into place. She got back into the saddle as the dragon looked around his ancestral home once more before taking to the sky to begin the flight back to their home.

Along the way there was a comfortable and peaceful silence hanging in the air around the lovers. They were truly happy because nothing could ever seperate them now that they shared the same lifespan. Skygazer was blissfully smiling to herself as she was still feeling elated that her dream had become reality and she was bound to her dragon now and always. She looked down at her hand that had been cut and was surprised that no scar remained, "guess there was magic in that ceremonial dagger," she said to herself. Draco meanwhile felt so contented, more so than he had ever felt in his life. They had waited so long for this moment and now that they had it, he couldn't help but smile, "hang on.." he said. Skygazer clung to the saddle, locking her feet into the stirrups. Draco roared with pride, doing a couple of loops then barrelrolling, it was pure elation for them and Skygazer couldn't help but shout out in happiness. After a moment or two Draco put more power into his wings and pushed them towards home faster, "hold on my Sky.." he said. She continued to hold to the saddlehorn as they flew faster through the air, trying to get home before the weather turned.

When they reached the lands they knew well the sound of thunder was heard in the distance, "a storm is coming..." Skygazer said. "Yes, that's why I wanted to get us back here quickly so we wouldn't get caught in it," Draco said. She smiled, "I wish I could sense things the way you do..." she stated. He smirked, "with time I'm sure my blood in your veins will give a few dragon abilities...it's a perk to us sharing blood." Skygazer was surprised but happy at the same time, "I wonder what abilities I will gain from you?" Draco had to laugh in amusement, "I wouldn't bet on gaining my fire but my sense of hearing and smell you might gain. You'll be more in tuned with your surroundings in a way you have never been before." Skygazer understood what he was telling her, "even so can you imagine me breathing fire?" she joked. Draco just laughed as he blew a ring of smoke playfully before flying through it. It didn't take long for them to reach their cave, "*sigh* finally home..." Skygazer breathed. "Yes..." Draco said as he slowed down to come in for a landing. Upon doing so he walked into the cave as the rain began to pour down behind them, "just did make it..." he stated. Skygazer watched it for an instant before dismounting from his back, she set their pack down beside him before removing the saddle. Draco stretched himself completely before shaking his head and transforming back into his humanoid form. "Here I'll carry this inside," he said picking up their pack. "Thanks baby," Skygazer said as she went to place the saddle back in it's proper place as he disappeared from sight. After she placed the saddle back by her mare's stall she then turned on her heel to follow her dragon into the cabin but as she took her next step she felt her legs give out slightly, "whoa..." she said catching herself on the stall door. "What's going on?" she said to herself.

Inside the cabin Draco had placed their pack in their bedroom before coming back into the front room to sit and wait for Skygazer to come back inside. He had a smile on his face as he reflected over the day he and his mate had just had, "at long last, our dream has come true."

Skygazer steadied herself for a moment before she took a few more steps, "ok I think I'm ok now..." she said to herself. She walked confidently towards the door of their cabin to walk inside and fix them something for dinner. Upon entering she found Draco waiting for her, "there's my treasured mate..." he cooed. She smiled at him as he stood so he could hold her in his arms and place a kiss on her lips. When they let go of it she spoke, "are you hungry?" she asked. He wore a smirk on his dragon face, "hmm do you mean for food...or for you..." he said giving her a half-lidded look. She giggled slightly, "for food..." she stated, "we can enjoy dessert later..." she replied. Draco decided to play coy, "hmm what if I'd rather have something sweet on my tongue first?" he replied seductively kissing her neck. She knew he was being playful with her and she loved this side of him, he showed a part of his personality that no one else got to see but her. "Someone wants to be naughty..." she cooed softly. Hearing that tone in her voice made shivers run down his spine all the way to the tip of his spiked-tail. He wrapped his wings around them both, "hmm where do you plan on going now my jewel? I have you wrapped in, not only my arms but my wings as well." he said arching a browridge at her and flashing a toothy smile at her. She placed a loving kiss on his lips before she spoke, "we do need food to sustain us..." she retorted playfully. "I know..." he looked away before drawing her in close to him as he continued, "but you're so tempting..." he purred as he kissed his way down her neck again. "We can't make love if we don't have the energy to do it though..." she replied. He knew she was right but he couldn't help himself, "very well my treasure..." he said relenting his playfulness for now. She smiled at him, "I promise it will be worth the wait," she said with a wink. He smiled at her before speaking, "I'll be outside while you cook dinner," he said. She looked at him, "alright my love..." she replied. He captured her lips in one more kiss before walking outside, she watched him disappear from view but she had to shake her head slightly, "what am I going to do with him?"

Now alone in their cabin she cooked up some left over deer meat she had harvested. She hummed a tune to herself but she couldn't help but notice that her head was spinning slightly, "hmn what is wrong with me?" she said to herself. She looked down at her hands and noticed she was shaking slightly, she grabbed her hand with her free hand to try and stop the shaking. After a moment or two it stopped and she was able to finish cooking their food. She had often thought back to when Draco would cook their meals with his fire and though she admitted it would be good to use that again, she enjoyed cooking the food herself. Once the food was done she set it on the table, "there now to go get my dragon..." she said to herself but as she went to take a step towards the door she felt herself wobble slightly, "oh no..not again..." she said catching herself on the table. She turned to the door and as she went to try and reach it her legs gave out from under her and she hit the floor hard. Her vision blurred, "Draco..." she murmured as she fell into darkness.

Outside Draco was watching the storm as it blew the rain in on him slightly, he didn't mind it and at times the rain felt good on his scales. However he suddenly had a jolt of pain flow through his body, "what's this? I don't usually ache like this," he said to himself. After a moment or two it sudsided and he shook his head slightly and it was then that he noticed that Skygazer hadn't called him for dinner yet, "wonder what's keeping her?" he wondered. He sat there a moment longer before standing up, shaking the rain from himself and going to check on his mate.

Upon entering he was greeted with a shock, there lying on the floor was an unconscious Skygazer, "Sky...Sky..." he called as he went to her side. He turned her over to see that she was pale and her breathing was shallow, "my Sky...please open your eyes..." he said. Not receiving a response from his mate, he picked her up and brought her to their bed to lay her down, their food completely forgotten. Draco sat at her bedside with her hand in his, "my Sky...what could've happened to you..." he said to her. He brushed a stray piece of hair out of her face before caressing her cheek gently, "did us sharing blood cause this to happen?" he thought to himself. He knew she was fine before the ceremony but now she was unconscious and looking very pale, "I hope she'll be alright..." he said. The rain continued to pour down outside their home but he hadn't moved from his spot and continued his silent vigil over his mate. It was getting very late and the dragon felt his eyes become very heavy but he tried to fight it, "I can't sleep now...not until I know she's alright." He knew he could go three weeks without sleep but after travelling back to his ancestral mountain today for the ceremony then flying straight back here, it had worn him out a bit. He decided to rest his eyes for a minute but still held her hand in his claw. He laid his head down on the side of the bed and quickly fell into a restless slumber.

When the sun rose the next morning it still found the pair sleeping, although one had not slept comfortably. Draco had been leaning on the edge of the bed and he still held to Skygazer's hand. He slowly began to open his golden eyes as he started to wake, "hmn too early..." he mumbled. He shifted in his sleep slightly before raising his head up, letting a yawn pass through his lips. He stretched out his body, having stayed in the same position all night, he turned to look at the woman laying on the bed, "oh my Sky..." he said. He placed a kiss on her hand before his growling stomach made him turn his attention to the food that had been left out all night. He stood up and walked from the room towards the front room, "no sense in leaving this here," he said. He knew it probably wasn't safe for Skygazer to eat but for him, it was no problem. Back before the rebellion he would often eat on a kill for a day or two. He devoured the deer meat and placed the plates in the sink to be taken care of later. After taking care of that task he poked his head in to look at her before going outside to look after her mare. When he reached the stall he looked in on her, "hey girl.." he said as he gently reached out to her. The mare had become very accustom to the dragaon's presence so she allowed him to touch her. Draco had to smile because this was the first contact they'd had, aside from the couple of times he rode on her back. He petted her for an instant before putting the halter on her and leading her out of the stall. He knew Skygazer kept a pasture near the entrance of the cave so he decided to place the mare there so she could graze, "there you go girl.." he said after closing the gate behind the mare. As he watched her for a moment or two, he flexed his wings and his tail swished back and forth lazily, before turning on his heel to go back inside to sit at his mate's bedside.

Back inside Skygazer was still laying on the bed but as she lay there, she was lost in her dreams...dreams of her and her dragon, and what their life would be like.

Dream:

In the dreams she saw herself, not as a human...but as a dragon, she and Draco were flying through the air together, enjoying themselves. She saw them laying beside the river, soaking up the warmth of the sun's rays. Then she saw their children, small versions of themselves flying around them, a happy family. Then the dream changed, it became dark as thunder rolled loudly above them, lightning struck the ground around them...as if trying to entrap them. Their young ones were huddled beneath her while she stood her ground and Draco stood in front of her. Suddenly a large spear was thrown from somewhere in the shadows. It struck Draco in the shoulder as another landed in his wing, preventing him from flying. Skygazer spread her wings slightly to provide cover for their youngsters as an arrow landed in her neck just above her shoulder. It then descent into chaos as more spears and arrows were thrown and fired at them. She still stood over their little ones while Draco was fighting to stand on shaky legs. He was beaten and bruised, blood covered his body, his wings were torn and could no longer be used to fly. They were grounded and defenseless. Then the final blow came when another spear was launched and landed in the chest of her beloved, making him fall to the ground. Skygazer could do nothing as she knelt her head down to nuzzle him one last time as he breathed his last breath. Tears stuck her dragon eyes but then she felt deep within her an anger she had never felt before. She raised her head high, spread her wings and roared out with rage. Leaving her two little ones beside their father she charged their attackers and set them a blaze. Standing over them she roared one last time then fell to the ground, what she had not noticed was that she had been impaled with a large javelin that had pierced her through the heart. The last thing she remembered was nuzzling her fallen mate one last time before succumbing to her injuries.

End of Dream:

It was then that her eyes shot open and she sat up on the bed, her heart was racing and she clutched to the charm around her neck. Her eyes burned with unshed tears and she covered her face with her hands. The dream had felt so real to her and to her it almost felt like a warning, "what could this dream mean?" she silently wondered as she continued to cry. At that very moment Draco had come back into the cabin and was nearing the door when he felt a sudden fear and sadness come over him, "why am I feeling this all of a sudden? Such fear and sadness?" he said as he silently tried to figure it out. He then remembered the incantation, "to share in each others strengths in body and mind, to become as one..." It was then that he understood, "what I am feeling now aren't my own feelings, but Sky's." This was all new to him as he had never been bound to a human in this way, not counting before the rebellion. He now realized what the incantation meant, "we will feel each other's feelings as if they are our own. Our bond truly is strong..." he thought to himself. As he approached their bedroom the smell of salt reached his sensitive nose, "she's crying..." he said to himself. He quietly crept towards the door to see Skygazer sitting up in bed, with her face in her hands, "she must've had a nightmare..." he said to himself. He gently approached and was surprised when her head shot in his direction but upon seeing her face and red eyes, he went to her side and embraced her warmly. She buried her face in his chest as she clung to him, he kept his arms wrapped around her as he caressed her hair and the small of her back. This embrace was so tender, so gentle, it conveyed to her how much he cared for her and the comfort he offered her. After a few moments she was able to stop crying and pulled back just enough to wipe her tears off her cheeks. Draco brought his muzzle down to nuzzle her gently before licking the remaining tears away. She giggled at feeling his tongue against her skin but she smiled up at him. He caressed her cheek before pressing his lips to hers, "you had me worried my Sky.." he said when they broke off the kiss. "I know...I don't know what came over me..." she said. He thought about it for a moment or two before speaking, "it could be that after we shared blood your body was trying to adjust to it.." he said. "You think so?" she asked. He wrapped a wing around her, "I hope that's all it was..." he stated. She could tell he held such concern for her and it pleased her that he was always so gentle with her.

Later that morning Skygazer was sitting outside on the boulder while her dragon rested in the sun in his full form. She saw him lazily dozing in the warm sun and she couldn't help but notice how his scales gleamed when the sun's rays reflected off them. She thought back to the scale they had found back at the mountain and she silently wondered what she could do with it. She knew Draco wanted to hang onto it because it was his mother's scale, "I wonder if I could make something with it or if I should just keep in the trunk at the foot of our bed with the other treasures." She had a habit of thinking out loud and would be so caught up in her thoughts that she wouldn't notice if anyone was around. Laying next to the boulder she was sitting on Draco lazily opened one eye to look up at her, "thinking out loud again my jewel?" he asked. She was jolted out of her thoughts when she heard him speak and looked down to see him peaking out at her. She smiled, "yes I was..." she said leaning back on her hands. Draco raised his head up to look at her, "what about?" he asked curiously as he propped his chin on his palm. She was silent for a moment, "I was just thinking about everything...I was also thinking about maybe making something, just not sure what." He arched a browridge at her, "with something from the trunk of treasures?" he asked. This caught her off guard as she glanced at him, "maybe..." she murmured. "Ah..." he nodded, "I'm sure whatever you decide will turn out good, you are very skilled afterall," he praised. She smiled but it quickly faded and the dragon took notice, "what is it my Sky?" he asked. She glanced at him before looking back at the ground, "I was just remembering my nightmare...that's all..." she said. He gave her a sympathetic look as he spoke, "do you want to talk about it?" he asked. She thought about it for a minute before shaking her head, "no I'll be alright...besides it was just a nightmare..." she said. Draco could tell that it still unnerved her so he brought his muzzle to rest against her side, "you know you can talk to me about it if you need to..." he offered as he nuzzled her gently, being mindful of his horns. She looked down at him as she placed her arm on his neck, "I know..." she brought her hand up to wrap her fingers around his horn before resting her cheek against her hand.

Draco had never before allowed anyone to hold to him in this way but with Skygazer being his mate, he allowed her to cling to him in whatever way she wished. He could feel in his heart that she was still unnerved and fear still raced through her. In his head, he was trying to figure what could've been in the nightmare that had scared her so and made her heart sad. He pondered for a moment more before he spoke, "my Sky..." she turned her gaze down to look at him, "yes..." she let her hand slide down from his horn as he gently raised his head. "Are you sure that you do not wish to talk about your nightmare?" he asked placing a gentle claw beneath her chin. She let her bright blue eyes meet his gold ones as he continued, "I can feel your sadness...I know you want to make what you're feeling go away." Hearing this caught her off guard, "what do you mean you can feel my sadness?" she asked. He smiled at her, "do you remember the incantation?" he asked. "Yes.." she replied. "Do you know what those words mean?" he asked, to which she shook her head no. "It means that when we shared blood and the incantation was spoken, it intertwined not only our hearts and souls but our bodies and minds as well. So with you feeling the sadness in your heart, I feel it as if it were my own," he explained. She was silent for a moment or two, "so it's the same if you were to be injured in a fight, I would feel it too?" she asked. "Yes, everything you feel...I am able to feel as well, that's what the words of the incantation meant," he explained. "I think I understand now..." she stated as she rested back on her palms.

Draco let her absorb his words while he rested his chin on the boulder beside her. He had to admit that this was very similar to when a dragon shared their heart, the strengths and pains were felt on both sides. Skygazer was thinking about everything that Draco had told her and it surprised her, she thought that two beings could only feel each other's strengths, pains and feelings when a heart was shared. Now she knew that there was more to their binding than she ever thought possible. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly as she started to speak, "in the nightmare...we were out together. This time it was different because in the dream I, I wasn't human...I was a dragon.." Draco raised his head slightly to look at her fully, "we were flying through the air together, then it showed us by the river...bathing in rays of the warm sun." Draco had to smile at this as he listened intently, "it was so peaceful being able to enjoy ourselves without any worry of an attack," she smiled as she said this but then it quickly faded, "then the skies became dark, thunder boomed overhead and lightning struck the ground around us. We stood our ground and you stood in front of me to protect me. Then from the shadows a large spear was thrown, it landed in your shoulder and then a second was thrown, landing in your wing which prevented you from flying. Then it was chaos, spears and arrows were coming from everywhere by the time it was over, you could barely stand..." Skygazer was fighting back the tears that were stinging her eyes. Draco nuzzled against her side as she continued, "the final blow came when another spear was thrown and it landed in your chest, you fell to the ground. I nuzzled you one last time as you took your last breath. Then from somewhere deep inside my anger rose and I charged the attackers and burnt them where they stood. It was only after that I realized that I had been struck with a javelin which pierced me through the heart and I succumbed to my injuries." She looked down as she wiped her tears away while Draco was silent, he wasn't sure what he could say to her right now. It was then she spoke again, "it felt so real...when I woke up I was shaking and I couldn't think straight...I don't know why this nightmare came to me," she drew her knees to her chest as she wrapped her arms around them before resting her forehead on her knees. The dragon was silent, "could that nightmare have been manifested by my fear at something happening to her the way it did to Aura?" he thought to himself. Looking at it, it made sense to him but he would never admit it openly. Even after all the time that had passed since that day, he still held to the fear of loss that he felt long ago. After a few moments Skygazer brought her arm up to rest on the top of his head so that her hand rested just above his eyes. As she sat there she subconsciously ran her fingernails over the scales there which caused a purr-like growl to emit from the dragon's throat. Upon hearing this it startled her slightly which caused her to look down at him, "what's with the sound?" she asked. He nuzzled against her side, "it feels good..." he said. She smiled as she continued to scratch him affectionately and she would giggle when he'd make that purring-growl sound again. They sat there for the longest time, just enjoying each other's company but in his head Draco was invisioning his beautiful Skygazer as a dragon. He shook his head slightly to rid his mind of the thought and just simply enjoyed the feeling of her scratching him.

About midday Skygazer had gone inside to see to a little cleaning that needed to be done, leaving her dragon outside to enjoy sunbathing as long as he wished. She found herself smiling as she worked, feeling somewhat lighter after sharing her nightmare with Draco. She couldn't help but hum a little tune she use to hum long ago and found it brought happiness into her heart again.

With his keen hearing, he could hear her song but he also felt happiness radiate through him which told him, she was her happy self once more. He smiled as he lazily dozed in warm sun as he continued to listen to his mate hum inside the cabin, "I'm glad she's back to her usual happy self..." he thought to himself. It was then that his thoughts were interrupted when his stomach began to growl, "probably should hunt us down something to eat." He turned to look at the cabin and noticed the door open as Skygazer stepped outside, "thinking about going on a hunt?" she asked. He had smirk, "you're learning fast my Sky and yes I was thinking about going on a hunt." "Alright...do want me to come along?" she asked. "As much as I would enjoy the company, I won't be long...I know where the game like to hide," he replied as he came over to nuzzle her, "I promise...next time I'll bring you with me besides there is prey that I'd like to hunt again but it requires a second set of eyes to do." She looked at him curiously, "what prey is that?" she asked. "Wild boar...there are some large ones up in the hills but they are very unpredictable, even for me it's a task..." he answered. Skygazer nodded her head, "oh believe me...I know..." hearing this intrigued the dragon but when she lifted her shirt slightly to expose her side his mouth hung open, "where did you get such an ugly scar such as that?" he asked. She let her shirt back down as she spoke, "a boar hunt..." Draco then looked at her with a stern expression, "you went on a boar hunt alone?" he asked. She heard the tone he was using with her, "the boar turned out to be larger than I had anticipated and he got me in the side but not before I put an arrow between his eyes." Draco brought his claw up and placed it gently on her side, "you could've gotten yourself killed," he said as his face softened. She let a small smile play on her lips as she placed a hand on his, "I know and it was a really close call, if it hadn't been for Bowen, I would've died." Draco was at least relieved that the Knight had been there for her that day. He brought his muzzle down to her level, "promise me you won't ever do something that reckless again..." he said. She looked into his golden gaze, "I promise..." she replied placing a kiss on his muzzle. "How about I cook up what I bring back this time? Been a long time since I used my fire to cook..." he said. Skygazer smiled, "I was hoping you would.." she said, her face beaming. He smiled at her enthusiasm, "alright then, I'll be right back..stay near the cave while I'm gone..." he replied gently. "I will..." she replied. With that Draco took to the air to hunt down their dinner. She watched him disappear from sight for a moment before sitting on the boulder outside the cave, "I wonder what he'll bring back?"

Now above his territory he used he keen sight to pinpoint where the prey was so he could swoop down and pluck them up. He scanned the ground below until he caught movement in the trees, "there we go..." he circled the area for an instant but then he realized what was happening. Bandits were attacking a wagon that was passing through the area, "bandits..." he growled as he went against his better judgement and dove down to protect the people on the wagon.

"Now let's see what goods you have in this wagon..." one bandit sneered. "Please...we have nothing of value to you..." said an old man. The young woman with him clung to his side, "you heard him now leave us alone..." she shouted. The bandits were amused by this fiesty young woman, "look at this boys...looks like we've got a fighter...what do you taste like?" he said licking his lips. "Don't you dare touch her!" the old man shouted. "Shut your mouth old man!" another bandit snapped. Before either of the bandits could do anything more they became distracted when the young woman spoke again, "father look!" she said. All eyes turned to the sky to see a dragon approaching, "a dragon? But there hasn't been one of them here in years.." the old man said. "Well looks like we have a better prize...come on lads," said the leader. Draco accessed the situation and intended to lead the bandits away from the wagon and the people, "that's right follow me..." he said. They chased him out of the trees and into the open and upon doing so he turned around and set the group of men a blaze, killing them where they stood. The two people stayed where they were as they watched their tormentors die in front of them, "do you think it will attack us too?" asked the young woman. The old man was silent for a moment before answering, "I don't believe so...he led them a safe distance away from us before he killed them. He was protecting us..." he replied. "Should we not tell anyone about there being a dragon father?" she asked. He shook his head no, "he is harmless...long ago there was a dragon that protected the people from a tyrant King. There were stories told to me that said dragons were sworn to protect man. It appears that the stories are true." The old man then turned his eyes to the dragon and waved to him, as a thanks. Draco nodded his head to the old man as he watched them ride off into the distance before flying away to finish his hunt, "I'm glad I was here to help those people..." he said to himself.

He quickly found what he was after, "there we are..." he spotted a group of deer below and selected a large buck to take down, "got to get this right..." he said. He soared silently over the group before swooping down and snatching the large buck up in his jaws, snapping the deer's neck, making a clean kill. When he returned to the cave he found Skygazer making a firepit and when he came in to land in front of her, he placed the animal at her feet, "well it appears your hunt was successful.." she stated. "Most of my hunts usually are.." he replied transforming back into his humanoid form. "Mind if I clean the kill this time?" he asked. "Not at all.." she replied as she stepped aside to watch him work. Draco skillfully carved the meat from the deer using his claws then turned to the firepit and lit it with his fire breath. He placed the meat onto a stick to be suspended between the two poles Skygazer had planted so that the meat could cook. While the meat cooked Skygazer spoke, "what will we do with the carcass?" she asked. Draco glanced at it then at her, "I will dispose of it later...all the meat has been collected." She was silent for a moment before she asked her question, "back before we met how long did a kill usually last you?" He thought back for a moment or two, "well depending on what it was, a deer this size I could eat easily in a day and have to go out hunting again later in the day. But a larger kill like a cow or a large boar would last me a couple of days. Their meat is tougher and there is more of it to eat on." She nodded her head to let him know she had heard him, "there's something else I'm curious about..." "You can ask me anything?" he replied. She silently hesitated before speaking, "it's about your past..." Draco locked his gaze with hers as she continued, "with you and Aura being a pair, did you two ever have any eggs?" This question caught the dragon off guard, he was silent for a moment which made Skygazer regret asking, "maybe I shouldn't have..." but he cut her off, "no...no it's ok, honestly I've been asking myself that same question for the longest time after she was killed. I know she disappeared the day before the dragonslayers attacked us but I don't know where she went or what she did. So if there was one it was probably destroyed long ago," he said. She was sympathetic for him and what had happened in his past, "I wonder if he would want any little ones after what happened?" she said to herself. Draco noticed she had become quiet as he checked the meat, "is there anything else you wish to know?" he asked kindly. She looked down slightly before looking back at him, "do you regret not being able to pass on your bloodline?" she asked. He glanced over his shoulder, locking his gaze with hers, "I think about it often and I wonder if I had been more outgoing about continuing my bloodline then maybe there would still be dragons in these lands." He turned his eyes back to the meat as it cooked, "I wonder why she's asking me this?" he said to himself, "perhaps I'm overthinking it...she's just being curious..." he put the thought from his mind for the time being. In no time the meat was cooked and ready to eat, "here we go, it's ready..." he said. Skygazer handed their plates to him to place the meat on them and after doing so he sat beside her. Skygazer was enjoying this, "mmh I had forgotten how good meat is cooked over an open fire..." she said. Draco nodded, "yeah it is has been a long time..." he said taking a bite out of the meat in front of him. As they ate a comfortable silence hung around them, both simply enjoying each other's company.

After dinner Skygazer took the rest of the meat and made jerky out of it while Draco took his dragon form and took the buck carcass away from the cave to keep other predators and scavengers away from their cave. When he returned to the cave he found Skygazer waiting for him outside. Upon landing he nuzzled her before transforming back in his humanoid form and wrapping his arms around her and placing a kiss on her lips. As she returned the kiss she licked his scaly lips as if to ask permission to enter. He was slightly surprised by this action but complied and allowed her to run her tongue over his sharp teeth. He too decided to explore her mouth with his tongue and began to wrestle for dominance, Draco won. He smirked against her mouth as he lifted her into his arms and carried her inside.

Once inside the cabin he carried her to their bedroom to lay her down on the bed. He proceeded to make love to her as he had done many times. Skygazer lay back on the bed before slipping her clothes off her body as Draco began kissing her again, "so beautiful..." he murmured. As he trailed kisses down her body Skygazer whimpered slightly at the feeling to which Draco responded with his thrum. Her body tingled at feeling his chest vibrate against hers again and she responded to him with a purr of her own. Hearing this made his body hot and it reacted to her, his member became exposed and pressed against her thigh. She then rubbed her body against his as the kiss became more heated, she rubbed her leg against his as his tail wrapped around it. He turned his attention to her breasts as he began to trace circles around her nipple with his tongue. This caused her to arch her back and moan out his name, "Draco..." she panted. Hearing the passion in her voice made his desire for her all the more intense and he turned his attention to her intimate area to place his tongue into her entrance, to work her up. Skygazer's breath hitched in her throat and she panted, "*pant...pant* Draco..." A pleasure-filled growl emanated from his throat as he dove his tongue deeper into her heated core. Her taste was always sweet on his tongue and he enjoyed licking every inch of her body. After working her up he came up to capture her lips with his before placing his girth at her entrance and entering her gently. He kissed her hard and she returned the kiss with the same passion he offered her, they kissed for several moments as he thrust into her body. Skygazer wrapped her legs around his waist to hold him where he was as she was enjoying the feeling of him within her walls. Draco ran his tongue against the skin of her neck as he placed a gentle nip at her shoulder as he continued to thrust passionately into her. "Draco...Draco...*pant...pant*..." she panted out. "My Sky..." he breathed. The only sounds heard were their panting and her moans. Their bodies were completely entangled with one another and because of their blood bond Draco could feel her desire for him which made his own desire skyrocket. He continued his thrum knowing that it made her body tingle to feel his chest vibrate against her. With several passionate thrusts he came deep within her body, twitching slightly as he released his seed into her while she clenched tightly around him. They lay there panting slightly as they rode the waves of ecstacy together while he nuzzled her affectionately before kissing her lips. She returned the gesture and kiss, responding with a purring sound, using her tongue. He smiled at her as he disconnected and move to lay on his side beside her while she rested her head on his arm. He draped a wing over her body as he drew her closer in his embrace, this was such an intimate gesture for a dragon to do with a human and she felt so lucky that she was his in every sense of the word.

They rested for a bit both enjoying the closeness of the other, but as he lay with his beautiful mate a question kept coming to mind. Skygazer seem to notice, "something on your mind?" she asked. He smiled at her, knowing that she was learning how to pick up on his thoughts and feelings as her body adjusted to his blood in her veins, "you could say that..." he replied. Skygazer knew from earlier when he was cooking their dinner that something was on his mind. "I kinda thought you might..I sort of sensed it earlier during dinner..." she said. Draco was impressed, "you really are in tuned with things around you now..." he commented. She smiled at him, as she knew what he meant, "do you want to talk about it?" she asked. He looked at her briefly as he spoke, "earlier...when you were asking me about my past...it just got me to thinking is all.." he said. She cocked an eyebrow at him, "are you sure?" she asked. He was surprised that this time she pressed a little but he didn't mind so he decided to ask, "does your questions have anything to do with the nightmare you had?" he asked. Now it was her turn to look down slightly, "a little..." she took a breath as she continued, "there was a part of the nightmare I didn't tell you about." "I'm listening," he replied gently. "Well everything I told you is true but the part I didn't mention was that..." she bit her lip nervously before she continued, "in the dream, before it turned dark and chaotic, I saw us by the river but it wasn't just us. I saw our...um..." she looked up into his golden eyes and wondered if she should tell him this part after knowing his past. He caressed her cheek gently as if to silently encourage her to continue, "I saw our little ones..." she murmured. Draco's eyes widened slightly at hearing her words, "...little ones..." he murmured. Skygazer watched her dragon closely as she saw his eyes twitch back and forth slightly. She remained silent to allow him to soak in her words before he spoke, but she could also feel how fast his heart was racing in his chest. He knew she could too but his mind was reeling after hearing that, after a few moments he found his voice, "my Sky..." she locked her gaze with his, "...is that something you would want someday?" he asked. She was silent for a moment before speaking, "I don't really know...to be honest I never really thought about being a mother before. Even back before the rebellion, the thought never really crossed my mind. And even if it did, would it even be possible?" she asked. Even Draco had to admit that he hadn't considered it, at least not with Skygazer anyway, with her being human he wasn't even sure they could have children together. He thought back to their earlier conversation at dinner and wondered if it had been her subtle way of asking him if that was what he wanted. The dragon raised up slightly, propping himself up on his elbow as he spoke, "in all honesty I don't know, with me being a dragon I don't think I can pass on my bloodline with you. As far as I know it's never happened at all for any of my kind." "So it's impossible?" Skygazer asked. From her tone and the feeling that now ran through him, he knew that she was sad at hearing this. He lay back down so he could hold her close to him, "even if it's not possible for us to have little ones of our own, we will always have each other..." he said pressing his lips to the top of her head. She nuzzled against the spot that protected his heart affectionately before placing a kiss there, "I love you Draco..." she said. He looked down at her, "and I love you my precious treasure..." he said nuzzling his nose into her hair.

Several Weeks Later:

It was a warm summer day and the couple was by the river enjoying the cool water against their bodies. Skygazer was sitting on a rock with her feet in the water and her dragon was sprawled out in the river itself, letting the water cover his body and cleansing his scales. He rested his head on a nearby rock in the middle of the river where he was resting, "you look very relaxed..." Skygazer commented. Draco lazily opened one eye as he spoke, "I am indeed..." he said closing his eye once more. Skygazer giggled at her dragon but became distracted when she heard an approaching horse which also alerted Draco, "I hear a horse coming..." she said. He smirked at her, she had become fully in tuned with her heightened senses after her body had adjusted to the strength of Draco's dragon blood flowing in her veins. Draco stood up from where he had been laying in the river before taking to the air to scan the area. With his keen sight he spotted the horse approaching and upon seeing it, he began to relax once more. "It's Bowen..." he said before playfully flying over the Knight. "Looking to make money today Knight?" Bowen was slightly startled at hearing Draco above him, "Draco when did you get so sneaky?" he asked. Draco just laughed as he flew on ahead to where Skygazer was waiting for him.

When Bowen reached them he found back Draco laying in the cool water of the river with Skygazer sitting beside it with her feet in the water, "hello Bowen..." she greeted. "Hello yourself..." he said then turned to Draco, "seriously when did you get so quiet? I never even noticed you until you spoke to me..." he said dismounting from his stallion. Draco laughed, "I've always had the ability to fly quietly but back then I chose not to because I was helping a certain Knight trick the tyrant's men." Bowen chuckled as he shook his head, "that seems like a lifetime ago now..." he said. "Yes it does..." the dragon commented resting his head on a boulder. "What brings you all the way out here?" Skygazer asked. "Well I went by your cabin, I knocked on the door but didn't get an answer. So when I noticed that your saddle was missing I knew you had flown out and being that it's so hot today I figured here was a good bet. It seems I was right.." Bowen explained. Draco smirked, "were you that worried about us?" he asked in a teasing manner. Bowen looked at the dragon, "to be honest...yes...you two are my closest friends and I care about what happens to you two." Skygazer's face softened, "aww..." was her response to Bowen's statement. Draco was touched that the Knight still cared for him, "so what does bring you out this way?" he asked. Bowen came over to sit on a nearby rock as he spoke, "well the preperations have been made for the coronation of me and Kara and I've come to bring you back to the castle with me so you can attend. We both would hate for you two to miss it. I mean it's because of you that we're even doing this..." he said looking at Draco for the last part. "When is it?" Skygazer asked. "Tomorrow, Brother Gilbert will perform our ceremony then crown us as King and Queen," Bowen replied. "You know we wouldn't miss it..." Draco said. "We will have to return to the cave to retrieve a couple of things and then we'll be on our way," Skygazer added. "That's fine I can ride along with you if you prefer," Bowen commented. "That won't be necessary Bowen, you go on ahead we will be right behind you," Draco said. "Alright, I'll wait for you at the castle gate," he said, standing up and getting back on his horse before riding away.

Now left alone again Skygazer stood from where she had been sitting to pull her boots back on while Draco got up from where he had been laying in the river. He made his way over to his mate and playfully shook the water off his wings and onto her. She giggled at his antics, "come on playful let's get back to the cave so we can get ready to go.." she replied, still laughing. "You know it felt good," Draco said before nuzzling her. She smiled as she finished cinching the saddle, "yes it did..." she replied placing a kiss on his muzzle before climbing onto his back. "Let's go..." she said. "Alright hang on," he replied, raising his wings and pushing them off the ground with his powerful legs.

It didn't take them long to reach their cave and once they did Skygazer dismounted and removed the saddle from Draco's back. After that was done he transformed back into his humanoid form and made his way into the cabin so he could pull on his armor and clothes, along with his cloak so he could travel unnoticed. Skygazer placed the saddle back over the stall door, "I'll be right back girl," she said to her mare. She made her way inside the cabin to pull on her dragonscale armor and pack their things into their pack for the trip. When she entered she found Draco already dressed and ready, "wow that was fast..." she commented. "I'm so use to doing this it takes me no time to get ready," he replied. "I'll be back in a minute.." she said. "I'll be outside.." he called as he disappeared out the door. Now in their bedroom she pulled on her dragonscale armor and packed their ceremonial clothes for them to wear at the coronation. Once that was done she grabbed her sword and made her way back outside.

Upon doing so she found that Draco had already saddled her mare and had hitched the cart to the saddle while he had been waiting for her, "clever dragon.." she said. He gave her a toothy smile, "your mare is no longer afraid of me so I was able to handle her," he said gently. This made her happy, "here we can place our pack in the cart with you," she said. "Ok," he lifted the pack from her to place it in the cart then turned to her, "my Sky..." She turned to look at him, "yes..." he surprised her by wrapping his arms around her and pressing his lips against hers. She happily returned the kiss, "I love you my beautiful jewel..." he murmured, caressing her cheek. She placed a hand on his, nuzzled against it affectionately before kissing his palm, "I love you too my handsome dragon." He smiled as he turned to get into the cart while she got atop her mare's back. Once in the saddle she gave her mare a gentle kick to move forward and head towards the castle. They travelled at a good clip and soon reached the castle gate where Bowen was waiting for them, "there you two are..." he greeted upon seeing them. "Glad you made it here safely..." he added. "So are we..." Skygazer replied once she was close enough. "Come on inside, I can show you where to put horse for the night and then you can come on inside," Bowen said. "Thank you..." Draco said. "No need to thank me, remember we told you that you would always have a place here at the castle waiting for you anytime," Bowen reminded them. The pair just smiled as they made their way into the castle courtyard before heading straight for the stables. After seeing to their horses Bowen led them inside the castle, "you two settle in then come on down to the dining hall dinner should be ready about now," the Knight said. "Alright..." was Skygazer's response as she and Draco made their way back up to the room they had stayed in when they had visited before. When they entered the room the scent of freshly picked lavender filled their senses, "I love the smell of lavender..." Skygazer commented. "Most dragons I knew long ago distasted anything like this and for a while I did too but after being with you, I learned to enjoy things that I didn't before," he said. She smiled at him as she placed their pack on the bed along with her sword that she always kept at her hip, as well as Draco's sword. He then became very silent for a moment and Skygazer took notice, "what is it?" she asked. He let a sigh pass through his lips, "I know why I wear this cloak but it doesn't mean I have to like it..." he said as he thrashed his tail slightly in annoyance. She had never seen him react like this before but she was sympathetic to her mate, she placed a gentle kiss on his muzzle as she spoke, "I know my love...I don't like it either but the people now may become alarmed at seeing you again," she reasoned. "Perhaps and perhaps not, I mean they were ok with me during the rebellion. Is it not possible that they would be happy to see that I've returned too?" he asked pulling down his hood.

Skygazer was about to speak again when the door opened to reveal a young woman, "please excuse me but Sir Bowen is asking for..." she then noticed Draco's appearance. Upon realizing his hood was down he pulled it back up hastily, "oh there's no need for you to hide yourself from me Master Draco, I know who you are..." Hearing her speak to him, he slowly pulled his hood back down, "you...you know who I am?" he asked. "Why yes, Sir Bowen and Lady Kara have spoken very highly of you, everyone in the castle knows who you are. You needn't fret for we have no fear of you..." the young lady said. The couple were both surprised at the young lady's statements, "what is your name Miss?" Draco asked. She smiled kindly at him as she spoke, "my name is Rose.." she replied bowing to him slightly. "You humble me Miss Rose..." Draco said. "There's no need be so formal, Rose is fine," she replied. "Very well Rose," he replied as he removed his cloak. Skygazer could feel the relief that both her and her mate felt at knowing they didn't have to hide his features from the people here. "Please come this way..." Rose said. As they walked down the hall Skygazer spoke, "are you new here Rose? I don't remember seeing you last time we visited." "Yes I am new and once I became part of the castle I was told many stories about the two of you and how you helped to overthrow the tyrant. You two are heros to everyone here and in the village and town..." Rose replied. Draco was left speechless, "I never thought that I would be able to be around humans without them being afraid of me." Skygazer placed her hand in his claw, "now how can you say that when you know the people of the northern mountains aren't afraid of you." He had to admit that she was right, "yeah I suppose you're right my treasure." "Aww you two make such a sweet couple..." Rose commented, smiling at the couple. Skygazer blushed slightly, "so that was you that helped the northern village?" Rose asked. "It was..." Skygazer replied. Rose smiled, "it is good that you helped those people, they are very fortunate to have you two and Sir Bowen as their Protectors of the Relm.." she said. The pair looked at each other, "they really do know us around here..." Skygazer said. "Indeed they do..." Draco added. "I trust your journey here was a safe one?" Rose asked. "Yes it was..we have never run into trouble on our travels here," Draco said. Rose nodded, "the roads are much safer than they use to be...and that's good for everyone here and beyond.." she said as they walked into the dining hall.

The pair stood there for an instant before Rose spoke, "Sir Bowen..I have fetched them as you asked.." she replied kindly. "Thank you Rose..." Bowen stood from where he had been sitting, "won't you join us for dinner Rose?" he offered. "I do appreciate the offer Sir Bowen but I must see to my daughter, another time though.." she replied. "Very well," Bowen said as Rose left. Skygazer watched her disappear for a moment as Bowen's voice caught her attention, "I am glad you have settled in so well here...come..." he said. The couple came over to sit at the table, "it's good to be back here again, it's been a while," Skygazer said. "It has..." he turned to look at Draco, "how are feeling knowing that no one here in the castle or out there in village fears you and you no longer have to hide?" "In truth I am grateful and relieved, I finally have something that I've always longed for...acceptance. You know how I use to speak to you about how I had grown tired of lerking in holes and skulking in darkness. To finally be able to truly enjoy life and be free, it feels amazing..." he replied with a smile on his face. "I am relieved as well...and I am happy for you Draco truly.." Bowen said. "You've always had my back Bowen, even now. You made sure that the people here didn't fear me so I could come and go as I please," Draco said. Bowen chuckled, "well it wasn't all me, Kara and Brother Gilbert have also spoken highly of you to the people, so they never forgot what you did for them during the rebellion. You were their symbol of freedom and courage, you gave them the strength to fight back and make this world what it is now." "He's right you know..." Skygazer placed her hand on her mate's claw, "you taught them to stand up for what they believed in and for what is right and just. You're their hero just as much as Bowen, Kara, Brother Gilbert and me..." she said. Draco smiled at his mate before turning to the Knight, "so where are the other two at this evening?" he asked. "Brother Gilbert is working on his scrolls but he'll be around tomorrow. Kara went to the village to visit friends, she should be back anytime now," Bowen replied.

As if on cue the vibrant red-head came through the door, "sorry I'm late Bowen the girls wanted to talk my ear off..." she gave Bowen a quick kiss before she noticed her two favorite people sitting at the table, "Sky, Draco, it's good that you're here with us again," she greeted. "It's good to see you too Kara. How have you been?" Skygazer asked. "Oh I've been good, getting ready for tomorrow, I have to say I'm a bit nervous.." she said. "I would imagine so it's not everyday you're crowned Queen of a land," Skygazer replied. "This is true," Kara said. "What of you Bowen? Are you nervous?" Draco asked. "If I'm being honest yes...but I also know that we're making the right choice so that we are able to move forward with helping the people," Bowen answered. Draco smirked, "sounds like someone has some confidence now.." he teased. "Well if not for you two we wouldn't," the Knight answered. Kara then decided to speak, "he's right and that's also why we wanted to ask you two to stand with us when we are wed and crowned King and Queen." Skygazer's mouth hung open slightly, "really?" she asked. "Of course, we couldn't think of anyone else we would want to share this with. You two are our closest friends in the world and we love you...you are both part of our family," Kara said. Skygazer's face softened, "we love you both too and we'd be honored to stand with you.." she said as Draco nodded his head in agreement. With a nod it was then that the food was brought out to the table for them to enjoy, "please enjoy..." said a young man. "Thank you Eric...I hope you all enjoy you're dinner as well," Bowen stated. "Thank you Sir Bowen..." he replied before turning on his heel and walking from the room.

Draco was intrigued, "you treat the people in here very well," he stated. "Of course, I would never bully people into doing things the way that tyrant did. Some of the people in the castle are the ones that were originally here but there are also some new ones as well, like Rose. Kara was the one to bring her into the castle to work and she has done very well," Bowen said taking a sip of the drink that had been poured. Kara was the next to speak, "yes we treat everyone in the castle like family because they are all people from the village and surrounding area. And we never ask the same person to do the same thing twice, it helps everyone learn everything that goes on from day to day." "That's very wise..." Draco remarked biting into the meat that had been brought out. Skygazer spoke, "I am happy that everyone is so happy and welcoming here...it makes us feel more comfortable." "I can imagine..." Kara said as she continued, "so Bowen told me that you were having trouble before with your dragon strength and all. How have you been doing since you were last here?" she asked. Draco swallowed down what he had in his mouth before speaking, "actually I've gotten back to full strength and haven't had anymore trouble with controling it." "That's wonderful news and I know that brings you both great relief," Kara replied. "It has and now we can simply enjoy life together..." Skygazer turned to her mate, "should we go ahead and tell them?" she asked to which Draco smiled and nodded. "Tell us what?" Bowen asked. "Several weeks ago we were bonded together..." Skygazer replied. Kara's face lit up at hearing this, "congratulations you two..." she said. "Thank you..." Skygazer answered. "Brother Gilbert will be disappointed that he was unable to bind you two," Bowen remarked. "I know but the binding ceremony is much more than a simple marriage," she turned to Draco, "do you want to explained?" she asked. He merely nodded, "the binding ceremony was created over a thousand years ago and was performed then as well. It was done by a dragon elder and while there are no elders left we were fortunate to have the woman that brought me back to life bind us." "She was bound to a dragon over a thousand years ago?" Kara asked. "Yes too my great-grandfather, my great great-grandfather performed the ceremony for them," Draco answered. "Wow there's so much more to Aria than I could've imagined," Bowen said. "You're not alone in that outlook Bowen, I said the same thing when she told me about that. I had thought she had only been there since I was hatchling but it turned out that she had been there even longer," the dragon said. "You are very fortunate to have her in your life Draco...you both are..." Kara said. "Yes we are..." Draco replied. "So where was the ceremony held?" Kara asked. "It was held at Draco's ancestral mountain home in a crystal cavern with a dragonhead carved into the wall of it," Skygazer answered. "Wow that must have been a beautiful place..." the red-head commented. "It was..." Skygazer replied. The rest of the dinner was spent talking over what was to take place the next day and what all needed to be prepared. The couple was also told of what their roles would be as they would stand with Bowen and Kara on their special day, "we can't thank you enough for helping us with this..." Kara said. "Yeah we could never pull this off without you two," Bowen said placing a hand on the dragon's shoulder. "You're welcome..." Skygazer replied as a yawn passed through her lips. "It has been a long day...it's time I take her to bed..." Draco stated as he picked her up into his arms. "We'll see you two in the morning," Kara said. "Night you two..." Bowen added. "Night Bowen, Kara..." Draco replied as he began to make his way upstairs to their room for the night.

When he reached the door a voice caught him off guard, "here let me get the door for you..." the dragon turned his head to see it was Rose. "Thank you Rose..." he replied. "No problem at all..." she said opening the door for the couple. Draco entered and gently placed the soundly sleeping Skygazer down on the bed before turning to Rose, "you are very kind Miss..." he said. She smiled at him, "you're welcome...I hope you two rest well.." she said. "Goodnight Rose," Draco replied bowing his head respectfully as she closed the door behind her. He stood there for a moment more before he pulled the covers over his mate and getting comfortable. He removed his armor and pants then decided to climb into bed next to his mate. To his relief the bed stayed sturdy, "hmm Bowen must've made sure the bed was strong enough for me to lay next to Sky." He smiled as he wrapped an arm around her before draping his wing over her, "goodnight my precious treasure..." he murmured before he let sleep overtake him.

Several miles away, there was a camp where a band of painted up, rogues that called themselves Stormcloaks resided. They were being led by a warrior that called himself Kodiak. He had led them from a far away land that had long been forgotten, so much so that no one could even recall the land's name. They had left it on a journey to stake their claim to a new land to call home, but there was a cost. This band's leader, had a deep hatred for nobles, mainly...the rulers of the lands, the Kings and Queens. They had set out on a mission long ago to avenge a family, his family, that had been banished from the land that was their home for many generations. The man that had done this was long ago dead but the bloodshed didn't stop with that particular noble...no...Kodiak made up his mind to destory every noble and ruler throughout the land because he felt they were all corrupted and looked out for themselves. Kodiak saw himself as the rightful leader to any land he saw fit to take and he would kill anyone who opposed him. On this night his men sat around a bonfire as he spoke to them, "so...it's come to this...after the long journey and hard work it's finally here." To this a few men threw their fists in the air as he continued, "tomorrow we will gain the ultimate prize...the eastern castle and the tyrant that lives in her walls." To this a few men booed and hissed, "but tomorrow, his blood will stain my blade and I will put his head on a pike and make an example of him," Kodiak said. The men around the fire roared out their cheers at their leader's words. "Get some sleep for when the sun rises...we will make this land ours!" he yelled to which the men joined in.

When the sun rose the next morning it found the dragon still curled up with his mate with his arm still around her small form and his wing draped over them. The form of his mate was snuggled up against the warmth her dragon's body provided, when she opened her eyes she was greeted with the sight of her beloved peacefully sleeping next to her. She smiled at seeing him as she placed a gentle kiss on his muzzle, she briefly thought about getting out of bed but found herself feeling too comfortable to move at the moment. She rested her head against his chest where his heart was, before placing a kiss there as she always did before closing her eyes once more. Draco shifted slightly at feeling her curl up more into his embrace and nuzzled her gently as he buried his nose into her hair.

In their room Bowen was just starting to awaken, when he opened his eyes he saw that Kara was still peacefully sleeping beside him. He couldn't stop himself from smiling at the thought of what lay ahead for them today, they were to be wed then crowned King and Queen of the people. He slowly sat up in bed to look out the window as the sky that was painted with the sunrise colors. He carefully got out of bed to go out on the balcony to watch the sunrise, once he was standing there he felt the gentle breeze blow through his shoulder-length hair. He took a deep breath and allowed the excitement he felt to race through his mind and body as a smile played across his lips. Back in their room Kara began to open her eyes to see that Bowen was no longer laying next to her, when she raised up she saw him standing on the balcony, "he's watching the sunrise again..." she said to herself. She smiled at him as she let the thoughts of the events ahead flood her mind, "it's finally here...today we will be husband and wife...as well as King and Queen," she said to herself as a smile played on her lips.

Around the castle there was a buzz of excitement as the people prepared for the wedding and coronation. Everyone helped to make everything perfect for today because they were looking forward to this just as much as Bowen and Kara were. "It's so exciting..." Rose said. "It is...I can't believe this day has finally arrived and I will be officiating their marriage and their coronation," Brother Gilbert replied as he helped Rose prepare the main room, along with a few others. Outside some of the villagers were decorating the courtyard and grounds where the people would gather to look upon their new King and Queen. Never in the history of these lands had the people ever been so excited about new rulers as they were about Bowen and Kara, they knew that both of them had the best interest of the people at heart. Kara had been born in the village and Bowen was a Knight of the Old Code and lived by a strong code of honor. The people were finally in good hands with this couple and knew they would be well taken care of and treated fairly.

At the camp of the Stormcloaks the leader Kodiak and his men were rousing from their tents and preparing for the day ahead of them. Kodiak was sharpening his sword to ensure that it was ready to cause bloodshed, "today...this blade will bring an end to that tyrant once and for all..." he growled. Around the camp the men were arming themselves and sharpening their weapons but this group also had something else in it's favor. These men had another advantage aside from their brute strength, for they rode upon, not horses, but creatures called daedroth...a large creature which resembled an upright crocodile. The daedroth are large, powerful, feral animals that can breath fire, similar to the way dragons do. Under most circustances they could never be handled by anyone but these creatures were under the controlled of very powerful, dark magic, wielded by a powerful sorcerer called Durza. After a run-in with the Stormcloaks long ago he made a bargan with their leader and in exchange, he summoned the daedroth in order to help this band of rogues destory anyone that stood in their way on their conquest. At first the men feared these creatures but after some time Durza showed them how to control them until they could ride upon their backs. After sharpening his blade Kodiak stood by the fire, "men..." all eyes went to him, "today is the day we sack that eastern castle and bring down the tyrant within!" Several men raised their weapons into the air, "so mount up and let's head out and put an end to the King and make this land ours!" he shouted as his men joined in with him. Quickly readying themselves they got upon the backs of the daedroth and rode out of camp, heading straight for the eastern castle.

A little later Draco and Skygazer had gotten up and also helped to prepare for the wedding and coronation, "this is so exciting.." Skygazer said. Draco smiled at her enthusaism, "I have to admit that even I am excited about this...Bowen and Kara are the perfect people to be the new rulers. The people are in good hands with these two," he replied. Skygazer smiled at her dragon, "I still can't believe that they asked us to stand with them for the ceremony." The dragon nodded, "me too but I don't think either of them could imagine doing this without us being a part of it." "Yeah I suppose you're right my love," Skygazer said pressing her lips to his in a tender kiss. Draco embraced her warmly as he returned the kiss, "I know I am..." he replied playfully as he nipped at her neck before trailing kissing down to her collarbone. She giggled at his antics as she tilted her head to the side to give him more access to her neck, "I don't know if it's a good idea to get something started so early, especially when we have to get ready ourselves then help Bowen and Kara get ready," she murmured. He smiled against her skin before bringing his gaze back up to meet hers, "I know my jewel but I still enjoy having the taste of your skin on my lips..." he replied giving her a half-lidded look. She giggled, "I promise tonight you can may ravish me all you wish..." she murmured seductively, giving him a half-lidded look of her own. He smiled a toothy smile at her, "and ravish you I shall..." he purred.

It was then that a knock was heard, "come in..." Draco called. The couple was happy to see it was Rose who entered, "oh good morning Rose..." Skygazer greeted as she came over to the young girl with Draco following her. "Good morning to you two as well...I hope you slept well," she said. "We did and you?" Draco asked. "I did as well," she replied. "I meant to ask...how's your daughter?" Skygazer asked. Rose looked touched at Skygazer's words, "she is doing much better, she sprained her ankle when she was playing with the other children yesterday but it's much better than it was. Still a bit swollen though..." she trailed off. "If I may.." the women looked at the dragon as he went over to his satchel to retrieve something from it. Skygazer and Rose exchanged looks as Draco came back over to them, "here use this herb...it will help with the swelling and also heal the muscle around the sprain as well." Rose was speechless, "I don't know what to say for the kindness you show me..." Rose said. The dragon smiled kindly, "just taking care of your daughter is enough. I'm just doing my part to help the people that my kind were sworn to protect," he said as he held out the herb to the young girl. Rose smiled as she gratefully accepted the herb, "if you don't mind me asking...how do you know about healing herbs?" she asked. "The woman who raised me long ago taught me about this kind of thing and I never forgot it," he replied. "I believe Sir Bowen and Lady Kara have mentioned the name Aria...is that right?" she asked. "It is.." the dragon nodded. "You are so fortunate to have a woman like her in your life..." Rose turned to Skygazer, "both of your lives." The couple smiled, "we are indeed..." Draco said. "Oh I almost forgot Sir Bowen and Lady Kara are asking for you two..." Rose added. "Thank you for telling us Rose..." Skygazer replied. Rose nodded her head and she turned to leave but stopped as she spoke once more, "would it be too bold to give you both a hug for being so kind to me?" she asked. Skygazer smiled at her, "of course not..." she replied as she stepped towards Rose. Rose embraced the woman then turned to the dragon, she approached him gently before placing her arms around him in a gentle hug, "thank you so much for your kindness..." she pulled back to look Draco in the eyes, "I hope I can repay it someday..." she added looking at Skygazer. With that the young girl left the room and closed the door on her way out, leaving the couple alone again. Skygazer was silent but smiled at her mate, "I'm so proud of you..." she said. He turned his golden gaze to meet her blue one, "for what?" he asked. "For helping Rose to take care of her daughter...you're so good to every human you cross paths with. You're great-grandfather and the elders would be so proud of you..." she replied placing a kiss on his cheek. He smiled at his mate as he nuzzled her gently, "come...we should see what those two want to see us about.." he said as he walked from the room with Skygazer following right behind him.

When they reached the room they had spent time with the couple in, they found them waiting for them, "good morning Bowen, Kara..." Draco greeted upon entering. The pair turned to see the couple walking in, "good morning...hope you had a nice rest," Kara asked. "We did..." Skygazer replied, "so what did you two want to see us about?" she asked. Draco couldn't help but notice that Bowen was quieter than he had been last night, "why the silence Knight? You aren't having second thoughts are you?" Draco asked. He looked at the dragon briefly as he spoke, "no...no it's nothing like that. Even though the lands are at peace now, I can't shake this feeling I have." "What feeling?" Skygazer asked. Kara was the one to answer, "he thinks that something is gonna happen to ruin the event." Draco snorted slightly, which surprised the group, "listen to me Bowen..." the Knight made his gaze meet the dragon's, "this is just nerves...there is nothing to worry about." Bowen looked down slightly, "maybe you're right.." he said. "Besides," Bowen looked at Draco, "if anything does happen...I'm here to protect you," he looked at Skygazer, "we both are.." he looked back at Bowen as he finished speaking. Hearing this seem to relax Bowen a bit, "you're right Draco..." he said. "Now come on, we need to help you two get ready.." Skygazer said. Kara nodded, "yes we do need to start getting ready.." she looked at Skygazer, "do you two have something to wear," she asked. It was Draco who answered, "yes we packed us something to wear, being that you asked us to stand with you two, we made sure." This intrigued Kara, "what did you bring with you?" she asked. "You'll see once we're dressed, once we are we'll come help you two," Skygazer answered. "Alright," Kara replied as she and Bowen stood from their places and made their way upstairs while Skygazer and Draco did the same.

Once they reached their room Skygazer went to their pack to retrieve their ceremonial clothes to get dressed. She reached in and picked up Draco's first then hers, "I'll help you fasten your armor once you have it on," she said. "Ok and I'll lace up your corset for you," he replied. Skygazer slipped her soft clothes off leaving on her underwraps, then turned her attention to the cloth that held her dress. She untied the cord to reveal her dress, she smiled at the memory it brought to her before she picked it up and slipped it on. The fabric was so soft against her skin and she loved having it on, the shade of blue showed beautifully against her tan skin. "Here..." Draco murmured as he came up behind her, "I'll lace it for you..." he said. "Thanks baby," Skygazer replied. She held the corset part of the dress against her body as he gently laced it up for her, he was being very attentive, making sure he didn't lace it too tight, "how's that my jewel?" he asked. "That's set comfortably my love," she said glancing over her shoulder at him. He smiled as he turned his back to her so he could pull on his dark blue pants that was adorned with silver designs down the legs. Once he pulled on his armor he felt her gentle hands on his shoulder, he turned to look at her and smiled as he raised his wings slightly so she could fasten the straps, "there you go..." she said. He smiled at her as he let his wings rest comfortably against his back to attach the deep blue cape at the shoulders. He enjoyed the feel of the fabric in his claws and especially liked the mirror image dragons embroidered in silver thread in the middle of it. Now with her dressed laced Skygazer pulled on the armbands and shoes then placed the ornament crown in her hair, along with her crystal rose. She loved everything about her dress, from the mirror image dragons at the hips to the dragonscale pattern etched into the fabric of the corset. She admired the intricate designs that encircled the pleated fabric of the bust. The silver ornament at the shoulders sparkled with the tiny gems of sapphires and pearls as were the tiny chains that dangled from it. She felt so eleghant in her dress of blue and white, she was distracted from her thoughts when Draco's voice reached her ears, "admiring yourself again?" he asked giving her a half-lidded look. She smiled at him, "maybe..." she replied with a coy smile on her lips. He placed a gentle claw on her cheek, "you should...you are stunning my beautiful treasure.." he replied before pressing his lips to hers. When he pulled back he spoke, "want me to braid your hair?" he asked. She cocked an eyebrow at him, "you know how to braid?" she asked. "Yes I have watched you many times, so I've learned how to do it," he replied. "Alright..." she said as she stood with her back to him. Draco delicately picked up a few strands of her hair, being careful not to pull. He remembered the way it looked on the day they were bonded so he was able to fix it just as Aria had done, "there you go my jewel..." he said. Skygazer looked at her dragon before glancing in the mirror to see how it had turned out. Her eyes lit up at his skill, "it looks beautiful..." she said before planting a kiss on his lips. He smiled as he returned the kiss, before speaking, "we should probably go help Bowen and Kara now." "Aright," she replied as they walked from their room and headed to where the couple was getting ready.

Down in the room Bowen was pulling on the clothes he was to wear, "why do I have to wear such itchy clothes? Can't I just wear my armor?" he asked. Brother Gilbert gave the Knight a stern look, "Bowen you are going to be married and crowned as the new King, you need to look your best." Bowen let a frustrated sigh pass through his lips, "I suppose but still the clothes could be more comfortable..." he said. It was then that Draco walked into the room, "he has a point Bowen." When they heard the dragon's voice they were greeted with a surprise, "Draco...look at you..." Bowen said. Draco smirked at the Knight and monk's reaction to his clothes, "where did you get clothes of such high quality?" Brother Gilbert asked. "Aria made them for me, she made Sky's dress too," Draco replied. "Dress?" Brother Gilbert asked. "Yeah our ceremonial clothes," was the dragon's response. It took a moment for the monk to realize what Draco meant, "you two have already been bound?" he asked. Draco merely nodded, "I had hoped to be the one to bind you two," Brother Gilbert said. "I know brother but Aria had been through the ceremony herself and knew of what it entailed. She knew the incantation that needed to be spoken for it to work," Draco explained. Brother Gilbert was silent for a moment or two, "well I can certainly understand that part...I have never been one to master the art of the dragon tongue." The dragon smiled as Bowen spoke, "do you really think I'm ready for this?" he asked. Draco nodded his head, "you are ready for this...trust me my friend," he said. Bowen nodded as Brother Gilbert placed the cape on Bowen's shoulders and Draco was delighted to see that it had his image on it, "you chose me as your symbol?" he asked curiously. Bowen smiled, "of course afterall you are the one that helped us get this far, it's just our way to honor you," he smiled. Draco was touched at Bowen's gesture, "thank you..." he said.

In the room she was getting dressed Kara was standing on a pedestal as she looked at her reflection, "I don't know about this.." she said to herself. "Do you really think that this is the best one?" Kara asked Rose. "Of course and you look amazing in it," Rose replied. It was then that Skygazer walked into the room, "I agree with her..." she said. Upon hearing her voice the two women turned to see Skygazer dressed in her ceremonial clothes, "Sky...my god look at you..you look amazing," Kara said. "You look stunning," Rose added. "Thanks girls.." Skygazer said as she walked over to stand next to Kara, "where did you get a dress like that?" she asked. "Aria made this for me when me and Draco were bound to one another," Skygazer answered. "She does amazing work," Rose commented. "She really does...she's highly skilled," Kara said. Skygazer giggled, "you look amazing in your red dress Kara. I like the dragonscale pattern at the neckline and waist." Kara looked down at the scales for a moment as she spoke, "the cape on my back has the image of Draco on it." Skygazer's eyes lit up, "wow...that's really well done..." she commented. "Rose made this," Kara said. Skygazer looked at her, "you're very skilled Rose...I'm impressed." Rose smiled, "thank you..." she replied. "So you ready to marry your Knight?" she asked. Kara smiled, "yes I am..." she replied.

Just outside the village the Stormcloaks lay in wait, watching as the people headed towards the castle in droves, "wonder what is happening in the castle?" one warrior said. "It matters not, those people will merely be part of the slaughter...along with that tyrant," Kodiak replied. "Yes they will..." said a voice behind him, it was Durza, "and the ones who survive will learn who the true leader is." Kodiak smirked, "indeed they will..." he said laughing manically.

Inside the castle the people were gathering in the main hall for the wedding and coronation of Bowen and Kara, "this is so exciting..." said a young woman. "Indeed it is..." remarked a man sitting next to her holding their son, "the new King and Queen will be ones we can be proud of." At the front of the room Brother Gilbert had walked in to stand in his place as a sign to begin the music. Once it began Bowen felt nervousness race through him, he was brought out of it when he felt a firm claw on his shoulder, "it's time Bowen...you got this.." he reassured. Bowen smiled, "thanks Draco..." he then took a deep breath and let it out slowly as he walked from the room with Draco following right behind him. Upon entering the room there were several whispers upon seeing the dragon, "look is that a dragon?" asked a girl. "It looks like the one that fought along side us in the rebellion," said a man. "Yes it does..." said the woman sitting next to him. The woman looked at the dragon a moment longer before recognizing the face, "it is him...he has return to us..." she murmured as tears welled up in her eyes. Everyone was both surprised and relieved to see their dragon once more. Bowen seem to take notice as did the dragon, "seems everyone remembers you.." Bowen whispered as he took his place in front of the monk. Draco was silently amused by the people's reaction, "hmn so it appears..." he replied as he took his place beside Bowen. The girls had heard the music from the room they were in, "you ready?" Skygazer asked. Kara gave a small nod as Skygazer walked from the room to walk into the main hall to stand opposite of Draco. When he saw her in her ceremonial dress again he was still as breathless then as he was now. "Wow, I've never seen Sky look so...so feminine.." Bowen said. Draco chuckled while Skygazer giggled at his remark, "thank you Bowen.." was her response. Then the music changed, signalling for Kara to enter and for everyone to stand. When she entered all eyes were on her but none more so than Bowen's, "wow..." was all he come up with as he was left breathless at her beauty. She stood next to Bowen as Brother Gilbert motioned everyone to sit back down.

Brother Gilbert smiled at the couple as he began to speak, "friends...we are here today on a very special occasion...the wedding between Sir Bowen of the Old Code and Lady Kara. It was under very different circumstances when these two met but all of that, has brought them here to this moment." The couple smiled at each other briefly as Brother Gilbert spoke again, "today they take the next step into their future together..." he paused to look at the couple, "take each other's hands..." he asked kindly. Kara passed her bouquet to Skygazer as she took her Knight's hands, "repeat after me...Kara...you first..." the monk said. The young woman nodded, "today I stand with you..." "Today I stand with you..." "As your wife.." "As your wife..." "To stand by and support..." "To stand by and support.." "In whatever the future may hold for us..." "In whatever the future may hold for us..." "I Kara, promise you Bowen, to be loyal and faithful to you now and always." "I Kara, promise you Bowen, to be loyal and faithful to you now and always," she repeated. Brother Gilbert nodded then turned to Bowen, "now it's your turn..." Bowen nodded, "I Bowen, promise you Kara..." "I Bowen promise you Kara..." "To stay by your side..." "To stay by your side..." "To protect.." "To protect.." "And to cherish all the days of my life..." "And to cherish all the days of my life," he repeated. Brother Gilbert turned to the other couple standing before him, "the rings..." At this both Draco and Skygazer passed the rings to their friends. "Alright once more..." he said. "Kara..." she nodded, "with this ring I thee wed..." the monk said. "With this ring I thee wed..." "To love, to honor..." "To love, to honor..." "During the good times and bad..." "During the good times and bad..." "In sickness and in health..." "In sickness and in health..." "Until death do us part.." the monk finished. "Until death you do us part..." she replied, placing the ring on Bowen's finger. Brother Gilbert nodded then turned to Bowen, "with this ring I thee wed..." "With this ring I thee wed..." "To love, to honor..." "To love, to honor..." "During the good times and bad..." "During the good times and bad..." "In sickness and in health..." "In sickness and in health..." "Until death do us part.." "Until death you do us part..." Bowen replied, placing the ring on Kara's finger. "You may kiss your bride..." he told Bowen. The Knight smiled as he pressed his lips against Kara's as she returned the kiss. There was a brief applause as a young woman approached presenting the crowns on a pillow, "now to place the crowns upon your heads," Brother Gilbert said. The couple stood to face him as he picked up Kara's crown first, "bow your head child.." he said kindly. She did as he asked as he gently placed it upon her head, "you may rise..." he said then turning to pick up Bowen's crown. When he turned to the Knight he spoke, "bow your head.." Bowen did as he was asked as Brother Gilbert placed the crown on his head. "Raise your head Bowen..." he said after placing the crown. The couple then turned towards their friends and family, "I present to you the new rulers...King Bowen and Queen Kara..." Brother Gilbert announced. It was then that the room erupted in cheers and applause for the couple as music began to play for them as they walked down the center with both Draco and Skygazer following them. Once outside on the balcony they saw the rest of the villagers had gathered in the courtyard to raise their voices up in praise for their new rulers. Skygazer came over to stand with her mate as he wrapped his arm around her waist. Bowen and Kara waved to the people before either of them spoke, "friends...we are honored that you have joined us for our special day and we vow to live up to your trust that you have placed in us. To do right by you all and be rulers that you can be proud of," Kara said. "We live by the Old Code and do what's right and just...we are sworn to valor and to uphold the weak, and treat everyone fairly," Bowen added. Draco's heart smiled at hearing Bowen's words, he was proud of the Knight and knew he would be a great King.

At the castle wall what no one knew was that the Stormcloaks had crept up unseen and lay in wait in the treeline, prepared to storm the courtyard and kill all within, "do we spring the trap now?" asked a warrior. "Get ready..." Kodiak drew his sword and raised it into the air, "CHARGE!" he yelled.

Up on the balcony both Draco and Skygazer heard voices coming from the distance, he turned to Bowen, "get these people inside now..." he said. Bowen looked at the dragon, "what? Why?" "Just trust us..." Skygazer said. Bowen then turned to the crowd, "please everyone come into the castle to celebrate with us." With those words spoken everyone began to file inside, the new rulers wanted to do this as calmly as possible that is until someone else heard the approaching band of unwanted visitors, "hey what's that sound?" asked a little boy. A man looked down at his son then turned towards the gate that was slightly open, "something's coming..." hearing this caught the attention of other people near him as they turned to look too. Up on the balcony Skygazer noticed, "Bowen look..." she pointed. He then noticed that people were starting to notice, "oh no..." he turned to the crowd, "everyone inside quickly!" he called out. As soon as those words were spoken everyone moved quickly into the castle for safety. "Fasten the door!" Bowen called. With everyone inside and the door fastened, Draco knew he had to act fast, so he slipped just inside the door to remove his ceremonial clothes, "Sky...quickly...undo the straps on my armor.." he said. Skygazer made quick work of the straps before Draco removed his armor then his pants, "what are you doing?" Kara asked upon seeing this? "I will deal with our unwanted visitors, you two stay here..." he said running for the balcony with Bowen on his heels to look at the group of men that now stood in the castle courtyard. "Tyrant! Come down here and die like that dog you are!" Kodiak bellowed. "Who are you that you would come here? Who do you seek?" Bowen demanded. "I am Kodiak, leader of the Stormcloaks and we seek the head of the tyrant Einon!" he boomed. Before Bowen could speak Draco decided to, "the man you seek is no longer here..." Draco stood on the balcony and glared at the men below. "Who are you that you would speak to me that way? Do you wish to die along with that tyrant?" Kodiak shot back. "Did you not hear my words? The man you seek has been long dead!" Draco said. "You lie!" yelled one of the men. "I know because I saw it with my own eyes..." Draco shot back. The Stormcloaks were silent as the dragon continued, "now leave here! Or else..." he roared. "Or else what?" asked Kodiak. "You will have to contend with me!" Draco retorted as he glared down at the men, spreading his wings slightly. "Oh you think you can make us?!" Kodiak taunted. "Don't say I didn't warn you!" Draco roared as he ran and leapt from the balcony and transformed in mid-air. The Stormcloaks couldn't believe what they were seeing, "a dragon!" yelled one man. Draco dove down upon the group and began blowing flames in their direction in an attempt to make them scatter and flee. He circled them for an instant before aiming for the leader, "your mine!" he yelled. Kodiak just did manage to dodge Draco's attack as his jaws came mere inches away from his head. Kodiak growled in annoyance, "Kodiak...we're not prepared for a dragon!" called one of the men. The leader was silent for a moment before he spoke, "this isn't over!" he called back. "It had better be!" Draco shouted as he continued to throw his flames at their backs until they were out of sight.

With the threat gone Draco came back over towards the balcony and transformed back into his humanoid form before landing back on his feet in front of Skygazer. She was relieved that the band hadn't done more than they had, "are they gone?" Bowen asked. Draco looked over his shoulder towards the treeline before looking back at Bowen, "yeah...for now..." he replied. It was then that Skygazer held his clothes out to him so he could get redressed, "thank you Draco..." Bowen said as Kara came up beside him, "who were those men?" she asked. Draco glanced back towards the trees, "no one good..." he replied as he pulled on his pants. While he held up his armor Skygazer fastened the straps and set it comfortably, "there you go my love." He smiled at her, "thank you my jewel.." he replied nuzzling her affectionately as she returned the gesture. After a moment or two he spoke, "come let us return inside but it would be wise to place guards to keep an eye out for them, just in case they come back." "Good idea..." Kara said, "and I know just who to ask.." she quickly made her way in to ask Hugh and a few of his men to take up post for the night. Bowen, Skygazer and Draco returned to the coronation party to join in with their friends and family who were already dancing and enjoying themselves. The couple didn't mind, as Kara had asked for them to go ahead and start the party while they saw to the disturbance outside. Once back in the main hall they took their places by their thrones to watch their friends and family have a good time, "why don't you two go out there and dance?" Kara suggested to Skygazer. "Perhaps, when a slow song is played," she said resting her head on her dragon's shoulder. The kitchen had prepared a grand feast for everyone to enjoy and both Bowen and Kara decided to partake in it along with some of their friends from the village. Even some of the castle staff were enjoying themselves along with everyone else.

It was then that Rose came over to greet the couple as she had already spoken to Bowen and Kara, "hello Miss Sky, Master Draco..." she greeted. Skygazer smiled at the young woman, "hello Rose.." she replied. "Miss Rose..." Draco said bowing his head slightly. She smiled warmly at them, "are you two enjoying yourselves?" she asked. "We are very much..." Skygazer replied. "What was that outside?" she asked as worry laced her voice. Draco was the one to answer, "I assure you that it's nothing to worry about Miss Rose...you have my word..." he replied placing a gentle claw on her shoulder briefly. She was about to say something else when a voice reached her ears, "mama..." she turned to see her daughter coming over to her, "ah Sapphire..." she then turned to Skygazer and Draco, "Miss Sky, Master Draco, this is my daughter Sapphire..." she said as the young girl came over to stand next to her mother. "Hello Sapphire..." Skygazer greeted while Draco bowed respectfully. "Hello, mama has told me so much about you two and it's a pleasure.." she replied bowing in return. Skygazer smiled as she spoke, "Rose she's such a lovely young lady..." "Yes and so well mannered," Draco added. "Thank you...it's not easy raising her on my own but she's my precious little girl and she's the best daughter a mother could ask for," Rose said. Sapphire smiled, "may I ask how old you are?" Skygazer asked. "Yes...I am fourteen..." she replied. "You're quite mature for your age..." Skygazer commented to which Sapphire smiled. "How is your ankle feeling Sapphire?" Draco asked. "Oh it's feeling much better, mother used the herb you gave her and it made the swelling go away, and it doesn't hurt anymore either," Sapphire answered. "That's good to hear," Draco replied. Sapphire then turned to Skygazer, "Miss Sky may I ask your permission for something?" she asked. "Of course what is it?" Skygazer replied. Sapphire took a breath as she spoke, "would it be alright if I danced one dance with Master Draco?" she asked. Rose looked at her daughter, "Sapphire..." she was ready to scold her daughter but Skygazer stopped her by placing a hand on her shoulder. She turned to the young girl who was waiting patiently for an answer, "well I do appreciate you asking me for permission first and you have it. But it isn't just me you need to ask..." she turned to her mate. Draco looked at the youg girl as she approached him, "would you dance with me?" she asked. Draco was surprised that this young girl wanted to be anywhere near him, let alone dance with him. He smiled warmly at her, "it would be my pleasure..." he replied holding his claw out to her. Sapphire looked at him then at her mother, "go on child..." she encouraged. Sapphire smiled, "thank you Miss Sky..." she replied before placing her small hand in Draco's claw and walking with him onto the floor to dance. Skygazer smiled at her dragon as Rose spoke, "that was very kind of you Miss...I didn't expect you to allow her to." She merely smiled, "of course, she's such a sweet young lady and being that she asked my permission first...I couldn't tell her no." Rose was grateful, "I am grateful for your kindness and his..." she said looking at Draco as he danced with her daughter. "It truth...this is a new experiance for Draco...he had only known how to be feared by the people of the village but after the rebellion, people accept him and he's able to truly live a life that he wants. He finally has what he's been wanting for so long...the feeling of belonging." Rose nodded her head to let Skygazer know that she had heard her, "I can understand that and he is nothing like those old stories that were told to me when I was child. He's so kind and gentle..." she looked at Skygazer, "you're a very lucky woman to have him as your mate.." she replied. The women exchanged pleasant looks as the song ended and the pair came back over, "did you have fun sweetheart?" Rose asked her daughter. "Yes I did, Master Draco is a very good dancer," Sapphire replied. He smiled at her, "I enjoyed the dance too..." he placed a gentle kiss to her knuckles and bowed his head to her in respect. Rose smiled, "come darling we should get something to eat now.." she said. "Ok mama...hope you two enjoy your evening," she bowed to the couple before following her mother.

Now left alone together Skygazer spoke, "that was such a sweet thing you did Draco.." she commented. "Well it's like you said to Rose, Sapphire is such a respectful young lady the way she asked both of our permissions before asking for a dance. I couldn't deny her request..." he replied. Skygazer kissed her mate on the lips as he returned it, "still it was very sweet." He smiled at her but then noticed a slow song began to play, he bowed to her as he held out his claw, "would you care to dance with me, my precious treasure?" he asked. A blush covered her cheeks, "of course..." she murmured, placing her hand in his claw. Once out on the floor Draco pulled Skygazer in close as they moved smoothly together to the rythym of the music. It was then that other couples seem to notice their dancing and stopped to watch them. The pair were oblivious of the attention they were getting as they simply focused on each other. Their movements were smooth and their holds gentle, everyone could see their bond and love for one another. When the song ended Draco dipped her and placed a tender kiss on her lips, which she returned. Upon standing back up the other couples standing around them applauded them, making Skygazer blush slightly and Draco smile. The couple decided to go spend time with Bowen and Kara, and to join in the feast that had been prepared. The celebration went on into the evening and as it got late into the night everyone began to make their way to their homes to turn in for the night.

After seeing to it that everyone got home safely Bowen and Kara went to their room for the night to get some rest. Skygazer and Draco too made their way to their room to remove their ceremonial clothes and get ready for bed. When Skygazer went to remove her dress she found a pair of hands already there, "here...allow me.." Draco said. She smiled at him over her shoulder as she moved her hair to the side. He gently untied the corset before she let the dress slip from her body, "thanks baby.." she said stepping out of her heels before picking up her dress. She laid it on the bed before she helped him remove his armor, "there you go my love.." she said. He smiled at her as he placed the armor down on the bed so he could remove his dark blue pants. Skygazer folded her dress the best she could as she placed it back in the cloth along with her wrist bands, crown, crystal rose and shoes. Once they were back in the cloth she retied the cord and placed it back in their pack, "there we are..." she said to herself. Draco had placed his armor, pants and cape back in the cloth before retying the cord and placing it in their pack. It was then that Skygazer walked out onto the balcony with Draco following right behind her. She leaned on the railing there while he wrapped his arms around her, resting his chin on her shoulder, "it's been the perfect evening..." she signed contently. A smile played on his dragon lips, "yes it has..." he murmured, placing a kiss on her shoulder before nuzzling against her neck. She leaned her head against his as her mind was filled with the memory of this night. They were both feeling so contented but none more so than Draco, because he no longer had to hide what he was and he was free to come and go as he pleased. He had found true acceptance from the humans of the castle and village. Skygazer knew how happy her dragon was, she could feel his happiness within her heart as well as her own. They gazed up at the star-filled sky, enjoying the view of the beautiful night before them, "stargazing with the love of my life...I can't think of anything better than this..." she said to herself. Draco nuzzled her affectionately as he silently agreed with her, she returned the gesture before turning around in his arms and pressing her lips to his. As they kissed Skygazer placed a hand on Draco's arm while the other rested on his shoulder, Draco kept his arms around her small frame. He loved having his mate in his arms and against his body, he surprised her by lifting her up and carrying her over to their bed. He lay her down before laying next to her, with his gaze locked with hers, he once more pressed his lips to hers in a tender kiss, which she eagerly returned.

They kissed for several moments before he pulled back just enough to look into her eyes, "you have the prettiest eyes I've ever seen..." he commented. She smiled at his words as he continued, "I could get lost in their beauty...just as I get lost in you my jewel..." he murmured. "I love gazing at your eyes...two golden pools that I can easily drown in..." she replied. He gave her a toothy smile before pressing his lips to hers again, but this time it conveyed his hunger...his hunger for her. She felt it too and she returned the kiss with the same passion he was giving her. With their blood bond she could feel his deepest desire for her, her love and body, "want something sweet on your tongue do you?" she panted when she let go of the kiss. He responded to her words with a soft purr-like growl emanating from his throat. She replied with a purr of her own as she rubbed her leg against his which caused him to wrap his tail around her lower leg. He raised up slightly so that he would be above her, "I've got you pinned..." he brought his head down to her ear, "what do you plan to do now..." he purred as he trailed kisses down her neck. She shivered at his voice being so close to ear, "hmm...make love to you..." she breathed. He smirked against her skin as he continued lower before stopping at the underwraps she wore. He looked at her, as if silently asking for permission, which she gave him...only then did he place a clawed hand there to remove the wrap that covered her breasts. He tossed it aside before delving in between the soft mounds with his tongue before tracing circles around her nipples. She arched her back at feeling him tease her sensitive skin on her breasts, "Draco..." she panted. He nuzzled her breast slightly before teasing the other in the same fashion, while he fondled the first. Once he was satisified with his teasing he moved lower towards her cavern as he once again silently asked permission, to which she gave it to him. He traced a couple of circles on the outside of her underwraps before slipping two fingers into it and pulling them down her long legs and tossing it aside. Now completely bare before him, her cheeks twinged pink as she knew where he was going to go. Draco brought his head down to her cavern as he inhaled her sweet scent and upon doing so got a surprise, "I know this scent..." he knew that this time he had to keep himself in check so his instincts wouldn't completely take over. "Can't let myself lose contol now...I don't want to hurt her.." he thought to himself. He still continued with his teasing as he began to flick out his tongue against her sensitive skin. She jolted slightly at feeling his tongue tickling her intimate area but she became breathless when she felt him press his head between her thighs and place his tongue within her already wet walls. He still enjoyed her taste, though it seemed sweeter now, "she's like honey on my tongue..." he said to himself. He lapped up her juices before he came up to press his lips against hers, while his hardened shafted lay pressed against her thigh. She returned the kiss with the same passion he was giving her as she wrapped her arms around him. As he kissed her he allowed the tip of his dragon girth to tickle her entrance before entering her and upon doing so, he couldn't help but let his thrum erupt from his throat. When Skygazer felt his chest vibrate against her body, it tingled and made her desire him all the more. Their blood bond made their lovemaking all the more intense because as she felt the pleasure he was giving her, it made his desire burn hotter for her. "My Sky..." he breathed. "Draco...*pant pant*...Draco..." she panted out as he thrust into her. His kisses were tender, his caresses sensual and his thrusts passionate...he was giving all of his love to her everytime they intertwined their bodies. She would purr in response to his touch and he would convey his love to her in his thrum...and it seem to make their bond stronger when they would respond to each other in this way. They were in a steady rhythm now as they moved in time with each other, "oh yes...yes..." she moaned out. He would purr to her in response as he continued to thrust into her body, "my Sky..." he breathed. Their passion built between them so hot that it threaten to burn them both, the only sounds that were heard was her moans and their panting. Skygazer wrapped her legs around his waist as she clenched tightly around his shaft, showering it in her juices. When he came he let loose his thrum as he pressed himself as deep as he could into her, his body shuddering slightly as he released his seed into her. They panted for every breath they took, Draco held himself up slightly on shaky arms before leaning his head down to nuzzle her, all the while giving soft purr-like growls. She returned the gesture, purring in response to him before he disconnected and move to lay next to her. He lay back on the bed as he tried to regain his breath from his exertions while Skygazer rested her head on his chest, to listen to the sound of his heart beating within. She snuggled her body against his before placing a kiss on the scale that covered his heart. He responded to her affection by turning onto his side to wrap an arm around her before draping his wing over her and placing a kiss on her forehead. This was a tender gesture for a dragon to do with a human and Skygazer smiled everytime he would do this with her. She felt so close to him right now as she snuggled into the warmth of his embrace, "I love you so much..." she breathed. "And I love you my precious treasure..." he murmured. As they lay together wrapped in each other's arms Skygazer's mind was going back to something they had talked about a couple weeks back. She remained silent as she let thoughts run wild in her head and she silently hoped that Draco wouldn't sense it. Even though he was content with her laying in his arms, he could tell that Skygazer had something on her mind. He wasn't sure if he should try to get her to talk about it right now but he had an idea of what it was. "She's still thinking about what we talked about a couple weeks ago..." he thought to himself. He had to admit that ever since they'd had that conversation he thought about it and he silently wondered if he should talk to Aria about it. "What would she tell me? Would she know about that ever happening?" He was brought out of his thoughts when he felt Skygazer snuggle more into his embrace as she slept peacefully. He smiled down at her as he pressed his lips into her hair, "sleep well my beautiful mate..." he murmured before he allowed sleep to overtake him.

Back in their camp the Stormcloaks were sitting around the fire, "a dragon? A dragon! We didn't plan on going against a dragon Kodiak! What do we do now?!" asked one of the men. Kodiak was silent for several moments before he turned to his sorcerer, "Durza..." the man looked in the leader's direction, "is there anything we can do to better our odds against that dragon?" he asked. Durza was silent as he contemplated his words before he spoke, "dealing with this dragon shouldn't be a problem...not with the spell I can cast upon him." Durza stood from where he had been sitting, "then he'll be under my control and on our side." There were a few whispers heard around the fire as Kodiak soaked in Durza's words, "will that spell really work on that dragon?" he asked Durza turned his stern look back at the leader, "it's so powerful he won't be able to resist it..." he assured him as an evil smile ran across his lips. Kodiak wore a similar look on his face, "good..." he said laughing maniacally.

It was about midnight and Draco was sleeping peacefully but his mate that lay beside him, was not. Skygazer was tossing and turning before she was jolted out of her slumber and she sat up in bed, panting for her breath. Her hand subconsciously went to her charm that she always wore before bringing it to her lips and kissing it. She let a sigh of relief pass through her lips as she glanced beside her to see her beloved dragon still sleeping soundly. She allowed a small smile to play on her lips as she rested her forehead on her knees, "it was only a nightmare..." she said to herself, "but it felt so real...it felt like...a warning..." She couldn't shake this feeling that now raced through her so she carefully slipped out of her dragon's arms and out of bed. She pulled on her clothes so she could sit out on the balcony in the cool night air, to try and clear her head. Now standing on the balcony her eyes went up to the star-filled sky that she had gazed at before. Her eyes rested on the constellation that she had always made a habit of looking at but this time, even though her dragon slept peacefully in their room she still felt the need to speak to the constellation as she had done before. This time though, she was speaking to dragons of the past, mainly Draco's mother and father, "I know that...you allowed Draco to return to me and there are no words I could use to say how truly grateful I am for that gift." A gentle breeze began to blow her hair around her face as she closed her eyes briefly to breathe in the cool night air. When she opened her eyes once more she looked back up at the constellation as she spoke again, "I also want to thank you great-grandfather for bestowing upon us, your blessing. Draco was so touched to receive that gift from you and I was also touched by your gesture as well. I know that I will never know you or his parents but from what your mate Aria has told me about you, I know that you were an honorable dragon. I think that's where a lot of Draco's sense of pride comes from, is you because he knows that's what you would want for him. Going to the ancestral mountain...I wasn't sure what I would find there but in learning about you and his father, I feel like I know Draco in a way I hadn't before. Even though he didn't tell me either of your names, the way he described you both...you were both incredibly beautiful and wise dragons. I have so much respect for all of you up there, your power, your wisdom, your sense of honor and pride...I promise that I will always take good care of Draco for the rest of our lives and stay by his side, no matter what we might face in the future. This...I swear...by the dragon blood in my veins that I shall not break my vow to Draco or to you..." she said as she bowed her head in respect to the dragons elders that were looking down from the dragon's heaven. It was at that moment that a shooting star flew across the sky and disappeared into the distance. She smiled before turning on her heel to walk back into the room to climb back in bed beside her sleeping mate. She snuggled down into the warmth his body gave off before allowing sleep to overtake her once more.

When the sun rose the next morning it shone in on one of the two sleeping figures in the room, "hmn too early..." he murmured as he brought his wing up to block the sunlight from his golden eyes. When he turned to face his back towards the sun he looked upon his sleeping mate but as he looked at her he noticed that she had gotten redressed, "she must've woken up in the night last night. What could've had her awake in the middle of the night?" he wondered. He sat up to prop himself up on his elbows for an instant, when he glanced down at her he smiled before pressing his lips to her cheek. He then decided to get up and stretch his wings, now that he didn't have to hide himself he was free to do as he pleased. He made his way onto the balcony to breathe in the early morning air, letting it fill his lungs. He glanced back at the sleeping Skygazer before he placed a foot on the edge of the balcony as he leapt from it and transformed in mid-air as he had done yesterday. He wanted to roar but felt it was too early to cause such a racket so he flew silently above the castle grounds and nearby village. As he flew over a few of the villagers that were already out and about called out good morning to him. He greeted them as he circled back towards the castle. He couldn't help but have a smile on his dragon face as he headed towards the lake he had so often dove into when he and Bowen were conning the tyrant's men out of gold. He saw that some men were fishing at the lake and as he flew over he greeted them, "good morning..." he called down and upon hearing him, the men looked up and smiled as they waved to him as he flew by. He felt exilerated as he flew higher into the sky and did a few playful barrelrolls and loops through the air. He puffed out a ring of smoke and flew through it before doing another barrelroll, "it feels so good to truly be able to be myself and not have to hide anymore...I feel so free..." he said to himself.

Back in their room Skygazer was just starting to awaken from her slumber and she turned over to reach out beside her. When she found the other side of the bed was empty she sat up in bed, "Draco..." she called out. When he didn't respond she got out of bed and walked out onto the balcony to see if he was there. Upon not finding him there she scanned the skies for him, "now where could he have flown off to?" she wondered as she stood on the balcony.

Still up in the air Draco was enjoying himself, "this feels amazing..." he looked at the castle as he had circled back in that direction. Upon doing so he noticed a form he knew well standing on a balcony, "there's my beautiful Sky...it seems she has awoken and is looking for me..." he said as he came in to where she was, "looking out at the beautiful morning my jewel?" he asked. She looked up to see him flying above her, "there you are...on a morning flight I see..." she said. He smiled at her, "would you care to join me?" he asked. She smiled at him, "of course I would but I do not have my saddle," she replied. "No need you can sit behind my head and hold to my horns. Don't worry I won't let you fall..." he assured her. She thought about it for an instant before smiling at him, "alright why not..." she replied. He smiled as he came in closer to her so she could step into his hands before he raised her up so she could sit just behind his head. He allowed her to get comfortable before he spoke, "are you comfortable sitting there?" he asked her. She was silent for a moment as it was different from what she had done before, "yeah I think so..." she said. He could hear the uncertainty in her voice but he wanted her to feel comfortable up there, "I promise my jewel...I will not let anything happen to you..." he reassured her. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly, "ok..." she said, "let's go..." Draco smiled, "that's my girl..." he said as he took off once more with his mate on his back. They flew around the lake, the village and the town, taking in all that they saw as they enjoyed the beautiful morning.

Having just come outside Bowen was standing on his balcony and saw that Draco was taking Skygazer for a flight. He smiled, "I know you're happy now Draco...to finally be free to live your life without fear or having to hide all the time. I am truly happy for you my friend..." he said as he watched them for a moment more before going back inside to start his day.

Back in the Stormcloak camp the men were rousing from their tents and making their way to the daedroth and mounting up to begin another attack. This time there wasn't a word spoken between them as they had already laid out the plan the night before so there wouldn't be any idol chatter when they woke up. It didn't take them long for them to reach the treeline that they had been at the day before, "you all know what to do..." Kodiak said, drawing his sword. The men raised their weapons and charged towards the village of unsuspecting people.

The bonded pair were thoroughly enjoying themselves until Draco spotted something in the distance, "Sky look there..." he said pointing. She looked towards the treeline to see something coming, "it's the Stormcloaks! Let's teach them a lesson!" she called. "With pleasure..." Draco growled as he charged towards them but as he flew overhead the pair warned the people below, "everyone get inside! The Stormcloaks are coming!" Skygazer called out. Upon hearing their alarm everyone ran for cover until it was safe to come out again, "stay inside until we tell you otherwise!" Draco added as he focused on his targets.

The Stormcloaks too notice to their approach, "here they come..." Durza said. "Just as we planned..." Kodiak added. "Keep the dragon's attention long enough for the spell to work and try not to get yourselves killed," Kodiak order. The men around him nodded their heads as they rode in circles to try and confuse the dragon long enough for Durza to cast his spell. Draco took notice to this, "trying to distract us aye...well there's one way to fix that..." Draco said. "Let'em have it Draco..." Skygazer called out. Draco aimed for the majority of the group as he let loose a fireball, which caught several of the men and daedroth in it's flames. "He's throwing fire at us!" called out on of the men. "Don't scatter! Stand your ground so he can cast the spell..." Kodiak barked. Unbeknownst to the leader Skygazer had heard his words, as had Draco, "looks like they are trying to distract you long enough to cast a spell." "A spell?" Draco growled, "they must have a sorcerer with them..." he scanned the ground below until he noticed a man dressed in odd clothes, "there he is..." the dragon said. "Light him up!" Skygazer called. Draco sent a fireball towards Durza only to have reflected back at them, "Sky get down..." Draco said. Skygazer ducked her head down as she still clung to Draco's horns. He used his powerful wings to blow it back towards the group of Stormcloaks, burning a few of them in the process, along with the daedroth. Skygazer poked her head up just enough to see the group of men below them, "be gone from here you monsters! Or you will have us to contend with!" she called out. Kodiak scoffed at her words but narrowed his eyes at the pair, "this isn't over dragon...not by a longshot..." he called back. He turned to his men, "let's fall back..." with that the Stormcloaks retreated out of sight. The pair sighed in relief as they returned to the village, "it is safe now, you may come back out...the threat is gone!" Draco called out. When the villagers came out of hiding they cheered and praised them for protecting the village. "Bless you Draco!" called a young woman as many others cheered out his name. Skygazer then turned her gaze downward, "post a guard to keep watch and let us know if they come back!" "We will!" called a man below them. Skygazer turned to her mate, "let's head back to the castle and tell Bowen about this." "Yes he must know what happened," Draco said as he flew back towards the castle.

When they landed in the courtyard they spotted Hugh standing watch, "Hugh!" Skygazer called as they landed. He turned upon hearing his name, "Sky, Draco how are..." he didn't get to finish his sentence, "we need to get word to Bowen now..." Skygazer said. Hearing her tone alerted him, "why! What's happened?" he asked. "The Stormcloaks tried to attack again," Draco answered. "The ones from last night?" he asked. "Yes and they have a sorcerer with them," Draco added. "What?" Hugh said. "And they were trying to put a spell on Draco...to use him for whatever they are planning," Skygazer replied. Hugh let their words sink in, "come..." he said. With that Draco brought his head down to allow Skygazer to slip from it before he transformed back into his humanoid form and followed the two humans inside the castle.

Inside the castle Bowen was heading towards the courtyard to begin lessons with his students when Hugh came running in with Skygazer and Draco right behind him, "Bowen!" Hugh called. The Knight looked in the direction upon hearing his name, "Hugh, what is it?" "There's been another attack..." he stated. Upon hearing this Bowen became alert, "what's happened?" It was then that Draco spoke, "we were out on a morning flight, we were circling over the village and we spotted the Stormcloaks trying to attack the village." Hearing this made Bowen very wary, "they are very bold to try and attack during the day...this could mean trouble..." the Knight said. "Yes it does but there's more," Skygazer said, "there's a sorcerer with them." "What?" Bowen was speechless, "a sorcerer?" "Yes and he's very powerful..the Stormcloaks tried to distract us long enough so the sorcerer could cast a spell on Draco and use him for whatever they are planning.." Skygazer added looking at her dragon as she finished speaking. Bowen became very quiet for a moment or two as he began to contemplate the next course of action to deal with these invaders. After a few moments of tense silence Draco spoke, "there was something else I noticed. They were riding upon some strange creatures that I've never seen before." "What do you mean?" asked the Knight. "They looked like some kind of reptiles that walked up on two legs," Skygazer replied. "This isn't good..." Bowen turned his back to them for a moment as he continued, "if these Stormcloaks mean to attempt another attack what can we do to stop them?" he said. Silence hung in the air before anyone spoke, "we fight back..." Bowen turned to look over his shoulder, "we fight them the same way we fought against Einon," Hugh said. "What about the sorcerer?" Bowen asked. It was the dragon who answered, "I think I know who to ask about that.." he said. "Aria?" Skygazer said. He looked at his mate and nodded, "maybe she'll know of this group and the sorcerer that is with them. Maybe she can tell us how best to destroy them," he added. Bowen didn't know of any other way to deal with these invaders so he decided that for now they would just have to try and stay on guard as much as they could, "alright for now let's keep guards on watch throughout the day and into the night if necessary. We need to protect the people from them." Hugh nodded, "right...you can count on me and my men to take up the post and stand watch." "Thank you Hugh...I will try to find out as much as I can about this group so we know what their weaknesses are and how best to use that to our advantage," Bowen stated as he walked away. With that Hugh left to talk to his men and have them stand watch and to be on guard against the new threat.

Now alone Skygazer looked at her mate, "so what now?" she asked. He turned to her, "now we must speak to Aria and find out if she's ever heard of this group or the sorcerer that travels with them," Draco said as he made his way outside with his mate following behind him. Once outside he transformed into his dragon form before lowering his head so Skygazer could get on, "come on we can get there quicker if we fly," he said. "Alright..." she said as she climbed onto his neck, to hold to his horns. "You ready?" he asked. "Yeah..." was her only response as he lifted his wings and took to the air.

Normally taking a flight was enjoyable for them but right now they couldn't enjoy it, they had too much on their minds. Draco noticed that Skygazer had become unusually quiet since the incident and he knew from the feeling radiating through his body that she was worried and apprehensive. If he was being honest, he was also feeling this way...knowing that they were gonna have to deal with a sorcerer made him very wary. It didn't take them long to reach Aria's hut, "there it is..." Draco said as he came around to land in front of it. Draco brought his head down so that Skygazer could slip from his neck before he transformed into his humanoid form, "I hope she's here..." Skygazer said. "She is..." Draco said. The young woman looked at her dragon, "how do you know?" He looked at her, "I can sense her...she never really leaves from here unless she has to.." he stated as they walked towards the door. Upon reaching it Draco called out to her, "Aria..." he waited for a moment or two before he spoke again, "mother it's us...we've come to speak to you." They waited for a moment before the door opened to reveal the sorceress, "hello Draco, Sky...what brings you out this way?" she asked. "Mother something has come up and we need to talk to you," Draco said. "Very well come in..." Aria said stepping aside to allow them to enter. They sat in the front room as Aria began to speak, "what is it you came to see me about young one?" Draco took a breath and let it out slowly before speaking, "we were wondering if you've ever heard of a group of men that call themselves Stormcloaks." "The Stormcloaks..." she stated. "So you have heard of them?" Skygazer asked. "Yes and they are very dangerous..." her face darkened slightly, "this group...these Stormcloaks have come from far away to these lands thinking they can slaughter anyone who stands in their way. And all because of something that happened ages ago...a journey of revenge." In all the time Draco had known her, he had never seen her this way, "how do you know all this?" he asked. She looked at him before continuing, "after I lost your great-grandfather I had a run-in with these Stormcloaks...their leader, Kodiak...is an evil man just like the sorcerer that he travels with." "What's the sorcerer's name?" Skygazer asked. "Durza..." she growled out surprising the couple, "he uses very powerful dark magic to control creatures from another relm..." "What are they called?" Skygazer asked. "Daedroth...crocodile-like creatures that breathe fire and use their long claws to slice down whatever is in front of them. Durza summoned the animals long ago when he first crossed paths with these men. He struck a deal with them and then became part of their group and their evil plans," Aria explained. "Where do these Stormcloaks come from? I've never heard of them before," Draco asked. "I am not surprised, they come from a far away land, a land that time forgot. I thought that those people had long been destroyed but it seems that they have come looking for trouble and seek only to destroy and terrorize everyone in their path..." Aria said. "So how do we stop them?" Skygazer asked. Aria became very serious as she spoke, "with them having Durza on their side it won't be easy...he is very powerful, the dark magic he wields...not even my powers could stand against him." "Then what do we do? They already attacked the eastern castle once and the village this morning. They tried to distract Draco long enough so Durza could cast a spell on him so they could use him in their sinister plans..." Skygazer looked at her mate as she finished speaking. Draco could see her unshed tears welled up in her eyes, he wrapped his arms around her before nuzzling her gently as Skygazer clung to him. He then turned to Aria, "what can we do?" he asked. Aria was unsure of what could be done at this point but she knew she had to help them somehow, "wait here..." she said. Draco watched as she got up and walked into the back room for a moment, leaving the couple alone.

Skygazer had so much running through her mind right now and she wasn't even sure about what to do. If it came down to a battle between them and the Stormcloaks, "should Draco even be a part of the fight this time?" She didn't want to risk losing her dragon to that band of rogues, "maybe...maybe we shouldn't..." Draco glanced down for an instant when he heard her voice, "what is it my jewel?" he asked. She looked down slightly as she continued, "maybe it would be better if we didn't get involved this time..." she whispered raising up slightly to look into the golden eyes of her dragon. Hearing this made Draco pull back slightly, "what do you mean shouldn't get involved? If we don't Bowen and the others will be slaughtered. Do you really think that they could stand up to those rogues, that sorcerer or the creatures they ride on?" She shrunk back slightly at his tone, "I didn't mean it like that..." she replied softly as she clutched the rose quartz charm around her neck. "Then what did you mean?" the dragon asked. "I just..." her voice wavered slightly as her eyes began to fill with tears. Silence pass between them and Draco felt the change in her mood, "what has you so worried my jewel?" he asked. "If that sorcerer gets you under his control what then? Have you even thought about that? What would happen to you if you couldn't break free of him? Then you would...you would be..." Skygazer couldn't bring herself to say the words because if she did, it would break her heart. Draco's face softened slightly as he spoke, "oh my Sky...that's never going to happen..." She cut him off, "and how can you be so sure, you can't resist powerful magic. You would really risk that..." she turned her back to him, "and you would risk leaving me to live life without you again. I thought...I thought that you cared about me...that you love me..." It hurt him to see her in this state and it hurt him to feel just how much saddness and heartache she was feeling. "My Sky..." Draco tried to meet her gaze but she refused to look at him. "I can't...I just can't..." she said as her tears streamed down her face as she stood up from where she was sitting and ran out of Aria's hut in tears. "Sky wait..." Draco called after her as he stood up.

It was then that Aria came back into the room, "young one...what's wrong..." she asked. The dragon stood there for a few moments before sitting back down and speaking, "she doesn't think I should even be a part of this fight with the Stormcloaks...she's worried that the sorcerer will gain control of me and use me for their evil intensions," he placed his face in his claws. Aria could hear the frustration in his voice as she came over to sit next to him, "young one..." Draco raised his head slightly to look at the woman who had raised him, "she has every right to be worried...these are not a normal enemy especially with that sorcerer helping them. I understand what she's feeling right now, she's only trying to protect you." "I know she is but...I'm the best chance these people have got to defeat these Stormcloaks. If I don't help them...then what kind of dragon am I? I live by the ways of the elders and do what I can to protect the people I care about. I can't just turn my back on them...not when there's so much at stake," Draco said hiding his face in his claws once more. Aria was proud of Draco for having that conviction, to stand by what the elders had taught him long ago, "son...you are a noble dragon and the elders would be so proud of you, just as I am. But you need to think about this carefully...you would not be able to resist the power of his dark magic. If he takes control of you, he will unlock your feral dragon instincts and set you loose on the people you have sworn to protect. You would be powerless to stop it..." she said. Draco felt hopeless now after hearing this, "so what am I to do?" he asked. She placed a gentle hand on his arm as she spoke, "open your claws young one," she said kindly. He did as she asked him as she placed the small satchel she had retrieved from the back room in his clawed-hand, "what's this?" he asked. "Open it..." she replied gently. He lifted his claw to open the small satchel to look at what was inside, when he did his eyes widened slightly, "what is this?" he asked. Aria smiled, "it's a talisman...from the elders, it was created by the oldest dragon long ago to help protect dragons from being controlled by magic. He created this before he died and what magic he had, he infused into it. As long as you have this with you, then no sorcerer can ever take control of you," she explained. Draco let his eyes rest on the talisman for several moments as he took in the image of the dragon carved into it. He traced the image with his finger for an instant before speaking, "will this really protect me?" he asked. Aria nodded, "yes...as long you have this with you, you will be protected." He let a smile play on his dragon lips but it faded as soon as it appeared, "what is it young one?" she asked. He let a sigh pass through his lips, "Sky...she was so upset before and I..." he looked down at the talisman in his claw. "You need to go to her and talk to her...reassure her that everything will be ok," Aria said placing her hand on his. He knew she was right, "I know you're right mother...I just hope I say the right thing to her..." he said placing the taliman on the table before standing up and walking out of the hut. Aria watched him disappear from sight before looking at the talisman, "I hope you are ready for what lies ahead..." she said to herself.

Some distance away Skygazer was sitting by a small pond on a boulder as her thoughts raced wildly in her head, "why? Why would he want to risk it after everything that happened before? I just don't understand..." she buried her face in her hands as her tears continued to stream down her face. She was so wrapped up in her thoughts that she hadn't noticed that she wasn't alone and that she was being stalked by a predator.

Now out looking for her, Draco had to try and figure out which way she went, "come on think...which way would she have gone." He thought for a moment or two before something came to him, "I wonder..." he took off in the direction he wanted to go. He remembered a place he would go when he was young, when he wanted to be alone, "I hope she's there..." he said as he ran as fast as he could.

Back at the pond Skygazer was wiping her tears away when the breeze shifted slightly bringing a scent with it, "oh no..." she looked in the direction it was coming from. When she did she saw something she wasn't expecting, it was a wayward daedroth that had been left without it's rider, "what is that thing?" she said but as it came closer to her, she realized what it was, "a daedroth..." She was now starting to get scared, "what am I gonna do?" she stayed on the boulder and hoped that it didn't get any closer.

At that moment Draco suddenly felt fear race through him and it didn't take but a second to figure out why, "Sky..." he darted faster towards the small pond. "Hang on Sky...I'm coming..." he said as he pushed his legs to go as fast as he could. When he reached the small pond he called out, "Sky!" It was then that he heard a growl coming from up ahead, "what is that?" he wondered. "Get away from me!" came a voice. Draco's eyes widened slightly, "Sky!" he called out again. "Draco!" she called back. "Hang on!" he replied. When he reached where her cries were coming from he saw what she was looking at, "what is that thing?" he asked. "It's one of those daedroth..." she answered. Upon hearing this his eyes widened and concern raced through him, "stay where you are my Sky...I'll handle this thing..." he said. Skygazer stayed up on the boulder she sat on as she watched her dragon fight the daedroth. Draco roared at the daedroth to get it's attention, when it heard the roar it turned to face the dragon and roared back. "That's right focus on me..." Draco said to himself. When the daedroth turned his eyes towards him Draco knew he had to get the daedroth away from Sky. He plan to use his fire on the daedroth and hoped that it worked, he began to circle the daedroth and he smirked when the creature mimiced this action. After a few moments Draco had his back facing Skygazer, "Draco..." she murmured as she clutched the charm around her neck. "Just stay there..." he said as he spread his wings to block her from the daedroth's line of sight. Draco took a small step towards the daedroth as the creature stayed where it was. A few tense moments passed between them before either reptile moved, the daedroth made the first move as it charged towards Draco. The dragon took a deep breath, opened his fire lung and let loose a fireball hitting the daedroth straight on but was surprised when it came running through it, "what?" Draco growled. "The fire didn't effect it?" Skygazer said. The daedroth got closer to the dragon and began slashing out with it's long claws, when it missed the dragon it turned it's head and blew fire in the dragon's face. "*Gasp* Draco!" Skygazer cried out as she too felt the heat of the flames on her face as well. Draco shook his head slightly before speaking, "stay there!" After shaking off the feeling of the flames in his face he charged towards the daedroth with the intention of clawing and biting at it. They met in the middle, both clawing and snapping at one another, but Draco had a bit more strength than the daedroth and was able to push it back and away from where Skygazer was. The daedroth growled at the dragon but as it went to throw another fireball he was blocked when Draco headbutted it, making it stumble backwards. Draco spun around and used his tail spike to lash out and cut the side of the daedroth before spinning around a second time, to fling the creature backwards against a tree. Draco stood there for a moment as he contemplated his next move, "fire won't work...but what about lightning..." he said. His eyes began to glow as his hands began to as well, "let's see how you handle lightning..." he said as he powered the magic towards the daedroth. Draco hadn't used magic since the battle with Vuljotnaak and he was pleased to see that the lightning was working on the daedroth, "it's working..." Skygazer looked at her mate, "try adding your fire to it..." she suggested. It was then that Draco took in that deep breath and sent a fireball in the daedroth's direction, which seem to amplify the lightning magic he was using. After a few moments the daedroth began to weaken to the point that it fell to the ground and succumbed to it's injuries. Draco stood there for a moment or two before roaring over his victory against the daedroth as he panted heavily from the fight.

Skygazer still sat on the boulder, clutching the charm around her neck as she breathed a sigh of relief. Draco then turned to look at his mate before making his way over to her and nuzzling her affectionately. She returned the gesture before burying her face into his chest as he wrapped his arms around her small frame. Draco was so relieved that he got to Skygazer in time before that daedroth could do anything to her. "I'm glad that you're ok my jewel..." he murmured. Skygazer remained silent as he continued, "why did you run off? You've never run away from me before..." he said. Their blood bond made her feel what Draco was feeling now, "I hurt him...and he's right I've never run from him before. But I just...I just think about losing him again." She was silent for the longest time before she pulled back just enough to look at her dragon as he spoke again, "why did you run from me?" he asked locking his gaze with hers. She looked down slightly as she clutched the charm nervously, she took a breath before she spoke, "it's just that...I don't want to lose you again...I can't go back to being alone..." she said. Draco kept his arms around her as she continued, "I understand that you have a duty to protect the people but..." she turned to look up at Draco, "I just don't want something to happen to you..." she said. As she looked up into the golden eyes of her dragon she could see the hurt that she had put there, "oh Draco..." she said burying her face in his chest. He knew what she wanted to say without words, he nuzzled her affectionately before kissing her temple. They stayed in each other's embrace for several moments before Draco pulled back just enough to look her in the eye, "I know you're worried about what will happen but I promise..." he caressed her cheek lovingly, "nothing will happen to me...I will never leave you alone again...I'm not going anywhere." He rested his chin on top of her head as she nuzzled against the spot where his heart was before placing a kiss there.

Silence passed between the lovers for a few moments until Skygazer decided to speak, "so how did you know to find me here?" she asked. He looked down slightly as he spoke, "back when I was young I use to come here..." he got a distant look in his eye, "it was after I lost my parents...I would have more bad days than good back then. One day I ran out of her hut and ended up here," he said, letting go of her and walking over to stand beside the pond. Skygazer came to stand beside him as he continued, "this place hasn't changed in all this time...it's still as I remember it.." he said jumping up onto the boulder that Skygazer had been previously sitting on. He looked out over the small pond as he allowed old memories to come back to him, "what are some of the things you remember about this place?" she asked him. He looked at her briefly before turning his gaze to the water, "in the summer...me and some of the other hatchlings would come to swim and cool off. The water felt deeper then but then again we hatchlings were only a few months old back then. Now if I were to lay in this water as my true size..." he chuckled at the thought, "it wouldn't come up far at all." She giggled at the thought but she also silently wondered if he ever brought Aura to this place when he brought her to meet Aria. She looked at him as he turned to meet her gaze, "did...did you ever bring Aura here?" she asked. Draco wasn't surprised by the question, "no I never did...I only brought her to meet Aria but we didn't hang around too long. At the time there were plenty of dragonslayers out then so it wasn't safe for us to linger in one place for too long." Skygazer nodded to let him know that she had heard him, she walked up to stand on the boulder with him as she spoke, "so...if I hadn't stumbled on this place before, would you have brought me here?" she asked. Draco took her hands in his claws as he spoke, "at some point I would have..." he answered with a gentle smile on his lips. Skygazer was silent for the longest time before she allowed a small smile to play on her lips. "There's a smile..." he murmured as he lifted her up into his arms. She yelped slightly at the sudden action but smiled as she cuddled into the warmth of his embrace.

It didn't take long for Draco to carry Skygazer back to Aria's hut to show her the talisman that he had been given. Upon reaching it he set her back on her feet before taking her hand in his, "come I want to show you what Aria gave me." Hearing this made Skygazer curious but she silently followed her dragon into the hut to find Aria waiting for them. She greeted them as they entered, "it's good to see you two have returned safely." Skygazer smiled at the sorceress as Draco picked up the taliman that Aria had given him, "look here my Sky.." he said. When her eyes rested on the object in her dragon's claws, she became very curious, "what is it?" she asked. "It's a talisman, it was created long ago by the oldest dragon before he died. He infused into it the magic he had, it's for protection," Draco explained. "Protection from what?" she asked. It was Aria who answered, "it protects dragons against sorcerers and their magic, it prevents a dragon from being controlled." Skygazer was silent for a moment before speaking, "so as long as Draco has this, Durza can never take control of him?" she asked. Aria came over to place her hands on the young woman's shoulders, "yes deary...your dragon will be protected, as long as he keeps it with him." Skygazer looked at the talisman before bringing her gaze back up to look at the sorceress, "thank you Aria..." she embracing her. "You're welcome child," she replied giving the young woman a kind smile.

Silence passed between them for a few moments before Aria spoke again, "so you went back to your favorite spot again young one?" she asked with a knowing smile. Hearing this surprised Skygazer, "you knew about that place?" she asked. Aria laughed, "oh yes...I've had to go looking for Draco a few times back in his younger days and I always found him there." Draco looked away slightly and in that moment, even though he was covered in copper skin and scales Skygazer could've sworn she had seen him blush at Aria's words. Aria laughed, "there's no need to be embarrassed young one..." she said glancing over her shoulder at the dragon, "everyone gets upset and when they do, they go to a spot that makes them feel better in one way or the other," the sorceress said as she sat in her chair. The couple sat across from her as Skygazer spoke, "so he would go there often then?" she asked. Aria nodded her head at the young woman's question, "yes he would...when he would have bad days and wanted to be alone, I would often find him there at the pond, staring into the water." Skygazer glanced at her dragon as she had noticed that he had become quietier since they had come back inside the hut. Draco's mind was remembering things from when he was a young dragon, "there were times I would just sit there all day and not even notice anything going on around me. Staring into the water at my reflection, wondering..." he then turned to Aria as she spoke, "did you encounter anything there?" Aria asked. The small gasp that escaped Skygazer's lips told that they had, "what was it this time?" she asked. Skygazer glanced at her mate briefly before he spoke, "it was a daedroth..." he said. When Aria heard this she became very alert, "a daedroth? What was it doing so close by?" she asked. Skygazer was the one to answer, "I think it's one from the attack earlier...his rider was killed and it's just been wandering around." Aria became very serious, "probably trying to find the others..." she looked at the couple, "where is it now?" she asked. Draco was the one to answer, "it's dead..." "You killed it?" she asked. "I did but I had to use my magic to do it...my fire had no effect on it," Draco explained. "I see..." she said, "what element did you use on it?" "Lightning..." Draco said. "So it's weakness is to lightning magic...you could use this to your advantage in battle," Aria said. "I suppose but how do we use it on a grand scale without injuring our friends too?" Skygazer asked. Aria turned to the dragon, "you will have to forge weapons and infuse your magic into them in the same way the elders use to do." Draco arched a browridge at the sorceress, "how do I do that?" he asked. "It's simplier than it sounds..." she spent the next few minutes explaining the trick to the dragon and he listened intently to every word that left the sorceress' lips. "So using bows and arrows are really the best way to do this?" Skygazer asked. "Yes it is, it ensures that you hit the target you're aiming at and nothing else," Aria answered. "Well that's the daedroth now what about the sorcerer? What do we use on him?" Skygazer asked. "He repels anything we send in his direction...so how do we kill him?" Draco asked. Aria had the answer, "you have to use the element of surprise, catch him unaware and you can take him out." The pair were silent for a moment before either of them spoke again, "could we take him from the air?" Skygazer asked. Aria pondered the young woman's question for an instant before answering, "it's possible but it will difficult...it would be best for one of you to draw his attention and while the other strikes. The element of surprise is the best chance to take Durza out...give him an attack that he can't repel or counter." It made sense to them but Skygazer was wondering, "does he have any other weakness?" Aria shook her head no, "not to my knowledge child...a stealth kill is the only chance you have." Skygazer looked down slightly but was distracted from her thoughts when Draco nuzzled her gently. She smiled at him before returning the gesture and kissing the spot over his heart. Aria smiled at seeing this, "you truly protect his heart in the way you should deary." Skygazer smiled as she rested her head on her dragon's shoulder while Draco wrapped an arm around her shoulders to hold her close to him.

Aria saw the way the two looked at each other but then noticed something about Skygazer, "deary..." Aria started. Skygazer looked at the sorceress, "yes Aria..." "May we speak for a moment?" she asked. Skygazer looked at Draco for a moment before looking back at her, "alright..." she answered. With that Aria stood from her place as Skygazer stood then followed Aria into the back room, leaving Draco alone for a moment. Now in the back room Aria spoke, "let me ask you something child..." she said. "Ok..." Skygazer replied. "Is there something you wish to ask me about?" the sorceress asked. "Well...yes there is but..." Skygazer fidgeted with her charm around her neck. Aria could see her nervousness, "whatever it is you can ask me." Skygazer took a breath before she spoke, "not long ago Draco and I were talking about...if he and Aura had ever had any eggs, he told me no. I asked him if he regretted not passing his bloodline on." Aria was starting to understand what this young woman wanted to talk to her about, "and you're wondering if he could do that with you?" she asked. Skygazer let a small gasp pass through her lips, "yeah..." was her only response. "Have you two talked about this?" she asked. "We have but he said he didn't think it was possible for us to have little ones together. He also said that he had never heard of it happening for any of his kind in the past. You were with his great-grandfather...did you two ever...?" she asked. Aria got a distant look on her face as she took a shaky breath, "the young one doesn't know this and please do not breathe a word to him." "I promise.." Skygazer answered. Aria motioned Skygazer over to a small table to where a picture was sitting, "look here..." she said softly. Skygazer looked at the sorceress then looked at the picture that was in front of her, "is that his great-grandfather?" she asked. Aria nodded, "yes...and I'm standing next to him." Skygazer nodded her head to let Aria know that she had heard her, "who is that little dragon with you two?" she asked. Aria's face softened, "our son..." she murmured. Upon hearing this Skygazer looked at the sorceress, "what? You two had a son? But how?" she asked but as she thought about she understood, "he could transform too..." she said. Aria nodded, "it was the biggest surprise for us both, we didn't think it was possible either. He was...he was a gift and Histva was so happy and attentive to our son...we were both so happy." "Histva? That was his great-grandfather's name?" she asked to which Aria nodded yes. "What about your son?" she asked. "We called him Vorstag...he was such a sweet dragon and he believed so much in what the elders taught. He wanted to do his part to make the world a better place, to bring man and dragon back together, to work along side one another as they were meant to. He made me and his father so proud..." Aria explained. Skygazer was silent for the longest time as she absorbed everything she had heard before she spoke, "was Draco ever around him?" Aria shook her head no, "it was long before he was hatched, his parents hadn't even been together long enough for them to have a clutch yet. No Vorstag never got to know Draco..." Aria replied sadly. Skygazer was silent for a moment before asking, "what happen to him?" she asked. Aria took a shaky breath, "he fell to illness and it took him."

Skygazer was sympathetic, "was it the same that took Draco's great-grandmother?" she asked to which Aria nodded. It was then Aria spoke once more, "if you two are blessed enough to have a little one, one day just know I will be here if you ever need help." Skygazer smiled, "thank you Aria.." she replied embracing the sorceress.

Back in the front room Draco was twitching his tail as he fidgeted slightly, "I wonder what they could be talking about..." he thought to himself as he had felt a range of emotions flow through him. It made him curious, "does it have anything to do with what me and Sky talked about before?" He was brought out of his thought when the two women came back into the front room, "I hope we didn't keep you waiting too long," Skygazer said as she came over to stand in front of her mate. He stood up and nuzzled her affectionately, "no my precious treasure you didn't," he replied kissing her briefly. He then turned to Aria, "it's getting late and we must return to the castle and let Bowen and the others know what we found out." "I understand but I hope you come back to see me," Aria said. He nodded his head, "we will...I promise..." he said embracing the woman that had raised him before Skygazer did the same. "Please be careful and may you travel safely..." she said. With that they left the hut so Aria could rest for the night.

Once outside Draco passed the talisman to Skygazer so she could hold to it for now. He transformed into his true size then offered his clawed-hand to her, "come my jewel..." he said. She smiled as she stepped into his palm before he lifted her up to sit behind his head. He stayed still to allow her to become comfortable before he took off, "you ready up there?" he asked. She smiled and nodded, "yeah I'm ready..." she replied as she held to his horns. With that Draco took to the air and began flying back towards the castle. It didn't take them long to reach the castle and they were greeted by Hugh when they landed, "there you two are..." the pair looked at him as soon as Draco's feet touched the ground, "Bowen and Kara have been worried about you two since you left this morning." Draco brought his claw up to Skygazer so she could slip from his neck and be brought to the ground. Draco was very careful with her and once she was safely on the ground he transformed back into his humanoid form as Skygazer spoke, "we didn't mean to make them worry..." she said. Hugh nodded, "I know and I assured them that you two were fine besides I know that Draco would never let anything happen to you Skygazer." Skygazer looked at her dragon, "it seems we better speak to Bowen..." Draco said. "Yeah we better.." she added. With that the pair walked back through the gates and into the castle.

Upon entering they found Brother Gilbert in the foyer and once he saw them relief washed over him, "oh child...there you two are..." "Brother Gilbert what are you doing here?" she asked. "Kara told me that she and Bowen hadn't seen you two since this morning. They feared that you two had been captured or worse..." he replied. It was then that Kara came towards them, "Sky... Draco..." she called. They looked in her direction upon hearing her voice, "thank goodness you two are safe...come Bowen needs to see you," she said. "We were on the way to speak to him anyway," Skygazer said. "We have found out about our enemy and we may know a way to defeat them," Draco added. "Good..come quickly..." Kara said as she took off towards the room where Bowen was with Skygazer and her dragon following right behind her. When they entered they saw Bowen sitting on the chair, looking into the flames of the fireplace, "Bowen..." Kara called. Upon hearing her voice he turned and when he did, he saw Skygazer and Draco standing with her, "Draco...Sky...where have you two been? I've sent out a search party to look for you two, I thought that you might have been captured by the Stormcloaks..." he stated. Skygazer hadn't realized that they had been gone so long until they had come outside and saw that the sun had already set. She felt bad, if she hadn't run off before they would've been back sooner. "We didn't intend to be out so long but we wanted to find out as much as we could before we came back," Draco said leaving out the slight argument he and Skygazer had earlier.

Upon hearing they had information Bowen became serious, "what have you found out?" the Knight asked. "We talked to Aria and she told us everything about the Stormcloaks and that sorcerer Durza as well as how to destroy those daedroth..." Skygazer said. Bowen cocked an eyebrow at her words, "what?" he said. Draco began to explain everything as Bowen, Kara and Brother Gilbert listened intently to every word that left his scaly lips. By the end of it they fully understood what they had to do next, "well it seems your day was well spent after hearing all that," the Knight said. "Yes it was, you found out so much that can help us defeat the Stormcloaks," Kara added as Brother Gilbert nodded his head in agreement. "Yes we have.." Draco said. "And you can infuse magic into weapons?" Bowen asked. The dragon nodded his head, "Aria told me how to do it so I can create them for your men to use in battle. They can concentrate on the daedroth and Stormcloaks while Sky and I take care of Durza." It was then that Brother Gilbert spoke, "where do you plan to wear your talisman?" he asked the dragon. It was Skygazer who answered, "we can attach it to his largest horns and when he transforms what we use will too. To accommodate the size change, we can't risk him going after Durza without it on," Skygazer replied. After a moment or two of silence Kara spoke, "it seems that we have everything covered and ready for the upcoming battle. We should turn in for the night so we can get an early start." Bowen nodded before turning back to look at the couple, "she's right but I also imagine that you two are hungry after being away all day. Rose prepared you two something earlier and asked me to make sure that you got it." Skygazer smiled, "that was so kind of her..." she replied as she accepted the food with a yawn. "You may take it to your room if you like...we'll see you two in the morning," Kara stated. "Night Bowen, Kara...Brother Gilbert," Skygazer said. "Goodnight child...Draco..." Brother Gilbert replied. Kara came over to embrace them, "we are so relieved that you two are safe," she said pulling back to look at them. "Thanks Kara.." Draco said as he lifted Skygazer into his arms. "See you in the morning Bowen," Draco said as he turned on his heel and made his way upstairs.

When he got upstairs a voice reached his ears, "Master Draco...Miss Sky..." they turned to see Rose approaching, "ah Rose..." Draco greeted. "I'm so pleased to see that you have returned safely. You had everyone pretty worried," she said. Skygazer gave her a small smile, "we didn't mean to worry everyone.." she said. Draco nodded, "we do apologize for worrying everyone but we had to find out all we could," he explained. Rose nodded, "Bowen and Kara told me a little while after you two left about what happened." Draco could tell how concerned Rose was, "you can rest assured Rose, we won't let anything happen to anyone here or in the village. You have my word..." Draco said. She smiled at the dragon, "thank you...oh did Kara give you the food I made?" she asked. "She did and we plan to enjoy it before we turn in for the night," Skygazer replied. "That makes me happy, you two have done so much for me and for my daughter, it's just my way of saying thank you," Rose replied. Skygazer smiled, "you're very good to us Rose...please tell Sapphire hello for us." "I will...I hope you two rest well tonight," Rose replied as she walked away to turn in for the night. Once Draco reached their room he placed Skygazer on her feet so they could enter and upon doing so they sat on the balcony to enjoy the food Rose had made for them. "Hmm this smells really good..." Skygazer said. Draco chuckled, "you have quite the appetite tonight my jewel..." he replied, taking a bite out of the meat. She let a smile play on her lips, "well we haven't eaten anything at all today, not even when we were at Aria's." Draco nodded as he swallowed down what he had in his mouth, "yeah we were so focused on our task we didn't even think about food...and that's unusal...for me at least," he chuckled in amusement. Skygazer was enjoying the taste of the meat that had been prepared for them, "it's so tender and the seasoning is perfect..." she said to herself as she took another bite.

Draco was silent as they enjoyed their meal together, "I am curious as to what my Sky and Aria talked about in private earlier. Would she tell me if I asked her?" His thoughts were interrupted when the breeze shifted slightly, bringing with it a scent he didn't recognize, "what is that? And where is it coming from?" he sniffed the air slightly but not seeing anything left him confused. Skygazer took notice, "what is it my love?" she asked. He looked at her briefly before turning his gaze back out over the land, "I'm not sure...you don't smell it?" he asked. Skygazer sniffed the air for a moment or two but shook her head no. This made him tilt his head slightly which only made Skygazer giggle, "what's so funny?" he asked. "It's just that when you tilt your head like that, you look so cute..." she said as she continued with her giggles. Draco snorted at the comment, "cute..." he said. She looked at her dragon, "aww baby..." she stood up and came over to kiss him tenderly on the lips before nuzzling him under the chin. He returned the gesture before wrapping his arms around her small frame but when he buried his nose into her hair he found the same scent again, "what? It's coming from my Sky?" He didn't understand what was going on but pushed the thought from his mind for now, "come we should get some rest..." he said. She smiled at him, "alright..." she said but as she went to take a step her legs seem to give out on her. "Sky..." Draco said, catching her mid-fall, "are you alright?" he asked. She was silent for a moment, "yeah I think so...I'm just tired is all..." she said letting a yawn pass through her lips. Draco lifted her once more into his arms so he could carry her over to their bed, "you rest now my treasure..." he said gently as he caressed her cheek. Skygazer's eyes were heavy with sleep, "I love you my sweet dragon.." she murmured. "I love you too my precious gem..." he replied as he pressed his lips to hers in a tender kiss. He pulled the covers over her and in no time she was peacefully sleeping, leaving the dragon alone with his thoughts. Draco quickly finished the remaining meat before he got into bed next to his sleeping mate. He nuzzled her gently before wrapping an arm around her and draping his wing over her as sleep overtook him.

In the Stormcloaks' camp Kodiak and Durza were discussing their plan for the coming morning, "that dragon and his woman are way too aware of us and our plan," Kodiak said, "it was supposed to be an easy task." "I know but the dragon's keen sight could be problematic for us..." Durza sneered. Kodiak nodded his head, "as could his ability to fly...swooping in on my men and snatching them up until there are none left." "If I could get close enough to him I could cast the spell on him, gain control and then the battle will be ours," Durza said. Kodiak looked at the sorcerer skeptically, "we tried that before and it didn't work." "It is true but he kept his distance from us as well as his keen sight on us. If we can get him low enough and distract him long enough my spell will work," Durza explained. Kodiak pondered what the sorcerer had said before he spoke, "what about the woman? She stays very close to the dragon." Durza had a very evil grin on his face, "leave that to me..." he said. With that the two men turned in for the night to be ready for their battle come daybreak.

When the morning came it brought with it the sunrise and it found a figure on the balcony watching it rise into the sky. Draco had woken up from a dream that left him pondering it's meaning, "could it be a sign? Is it trying to tell me what could be going on with my Sky?" he glanced over his shoulder at his sleeping mate. He became distracted from his thoughts when the sunlight hit his face, he brought a claw up to block the blinding light from his eyes. As the sun's rays shone on him, it glistened on the talisman that Aria had given him, Skygazer had braided a cord and attached a leather strip to it and tied it to his largest horn. He had to admit that with this talisman, he felt better about today's battle against the Stormcloaks and that sorcerer but deep down he worried about his mate. He knew she could reckless when it came to protecting him but it was more than just that, since becoming her mate he felt an even stronger urge to protect her. He knew it was only natural for him to feel this way, he was only following his dragon instincts but something in the back of his mind was telling him that there was another reason. He couldn't think about that now, he had to focus his mind on the coming battle ahead. He turned on his heel as he made his way over to his mate to nuzzle her and place a kiss on her cheek. Feeling his lips against her skin made Skygazer open her bright blue eyes to see her dragon standing next to her, "good morning my love..." she cooed giving him a warm smile. He smiled down at her, "morning precious jewel..." he replied nuzzling her again as she returned the gesture. She slowly sat up in bed as he sat on the side of it, "did you sleep well?" he asked her. She nodded, "I did..especially since I was wrapped up in your arms.." she replied. He caressed her cheek lovingly, "you are so sweet my love." She smiled at him as she placed her hand on his, "what about you? Did you sleep well?" she asked. He was hesitant and she could tell that something was off with her dragon this morning, "what is it Draco?" she asked. He let his hand drop from her cheek to rest on her hand in her lap, "I did sleep well but I had a dream..." she remained silent to allow him to speak, "in the dream..I saw us in our cave, our home...and you...you were..." Skygazer was surprised that her dragon was stumbling over his words, that wasn't like him, "baby whatever it is you can tell me." He looked down slightly before locking his golden gaze with hers, "in the dream...you were pregnant.." he whispered. Upon hearing this made Skygazer's mouth hang open slightly, "what would make him dream about that? Did he overhear what me and Aria talked about yesterday?" She thought to herself, "wonder what would make you dream about that?" she asked innocently. Draco watched her closely, "were you thinking about what you and I talked about before?" she asked. He shook his head, "I don't know but I have noticed lately that there's a change in your scent." Hearing this made Skygazer cock an eyebrow at him, "what? A change in my scent?" she asked curiously to which he merely nodded. Skygazer looked down slightly as she thought back to what she and Aria had talked about. Even though she promised Aria not to tell Draco about her secret, she silently wondered if she should still tell him.

She was about to speak when a knock was heard, "yes..." Draco called. "It's Rose..." came the voice from the other side of the door. "You may enter Rose..." the dragon said. The door opened to reveal the young woman the couple had grown very fond of, "excuse me for disturbing you..." she said. Skygazer shook her head, "you didn't disturb us Rose." She smiled at her as she spoke, "Sir Bowen wishes to speak with Master Draco..." she said. "Alright..." he turned to his mate, "will you be alright in here for a minute?" he asked. She nodded, "yes my love..." she replied. He smiled at her briefly before placing a kiss on her forehead. Upon standing he spoke, "what does he wish to see me about?" he asked looking at the woman in front of him. "He wanted to talk to you about the weapons needed for the battle," Rose answered. He nodded his head, "lead the way..." he replied kindly. "I'll be back in a bit my Sky.." he said as he followed Rose out of the room. Now alone with her thoughts Skygazer began to think back on everything that Aria had told her, "I still can't believe that she had a son with Histva...I wonder what Draco would think..." she turned her gaze to the sky for an instant. "It's too bad that Vorstag never knew Draco...wonder if they would've gotten along with one another..." she said to herself. She found amusement in her thoughts, "look at me wondering about another dragon that I will never know..." she flopped back on the bed. She stared up at the ceilling as she felt a bit of saddness flow through her, "*sigh* no point in wondering about something that will never happen..." she said to herself. She decided to rest and relax while she waited Draco to return, knowing that he would be busy for a little bit while he created the weapons needed for the battle.

It was midday when Draco completed the lightning weapons and he was on his way back to the room he shared with his precious mate. He felt confident that his magic was strong enough to help the men in the battle and that the weapons would work properly. However his mind was on something, "what would make her sad?" he silently wondered. He was determined to know what it was but he also wanted to share something with his mate, "since having that dream I can't help but wonder if it truly is possible for us to have that together." He set his thoughts aside for now as he entered their room to find it empty, "my Sky?" he called. He waited for a moment then heard her response come from the balcony, "out here my love." He smiled as he followed the sound of her voice outside, "decided to enjoy the fresh air did you?" he asked. She smiled as she turned to face him, "yeah I thought it might help clear my head." He became curious at her words, "what is it my jewel?" he asked. She looked up at him as he leaned against the door frame, "it's just that...I was thinking about the dream you told me about and I can't help but wonder if that would truly be possible between us." Draco kept his gaze locked with hers as he approached to kneel down in front of her. He caressed her cheek lovingly as he spoke, "is that what you talked to Aria about when we were at her hut?" he asked. Skygazer looked down slightly as she merely nodded and closed her eyes because of the tears that welled up in her eyes. Seeing this made Draco nuzzle her gently to bring comfort to her, he then brought her to her feet before wrapping his arms around her small frame. He held her in his arms as she cried but his mind was reeling now, "what did Aria tell her? Is it truly possible for us to have that?" He continued to nuzzle her gently and would bury his nose into her hair, "what did Aria tell you when you asked?" he asked.

Skygazer pulled back slightly to look into the caring golden eyes of her dragon but as she was ready to speak she became distracted when she felt a sudden churning hit her. She pulled away from Draco as she ran to the edge of the balcony and emptied the contents of her stomach. Seeing this Draco went silent as he was unsure of what to do, he stood quietly while he waited for her to finish, "what is wrong with my Sky?" After a moment or two Skygazer sat in the chair she had been in when Draco had returned. She wiped her mouth as Draco's voice reached her ears, "are you alright my Sky?" he asked as he knelt down next to her. She gave him a weak smile, "I think so..." she said, her voice sounding very hoarse. The dragon caressed her cheek gently, "maybe I should get Kara or Rose..." he suggested. Skygazer shook her head, "no...I think it's just something I ate that didn't agree with me. I'm fine dear..." she said trying to reassure her mate. He wasn't so sure but he let the matter drop for now, "just tell me if you change your mind alright?" he said. She merely nodded as she stood from her place, to lean against the railing of the balcony while Draco stayed close to her.

Later on in the day the pair were preparing for the battle, Skygazer was wearing her dragon armor while her dragon took his true form and was perched atop a nearby battlement, keeping a watchful eye on everything around him. Skygazer noticed how the sun gleamed on his copper scales, making them shimmer. She could see the talisman still attached to one of his large horns atop his head, protecting him. Skygazer felt a sense of relief wash over her when her eyes rested on it and Draco could feel it too as he gazed in her direction for an instant. They had discussed whether or not she would ride atop his back during the fight but she felt that her skills were much more suited for use on the ground than up in the air. Draco was apprehensive about her decision but knew she was a capable fighter, so he allowed her to do as she wished.

Down in the main hall Bowen was gathering everyone and preparing for battle as well. Many of the men had been outfitted with special armor to wear and weapons to wield during the battle, to give them the best chance to win. Bowen had strategized that morning so everyone knew what part they'd have in this battle. "It's simple, we placed the archers on the wall to aim at the daedroth with the weapons Draco made while the rest of us target the Stormcloaks as they lose their mounts. It will be the best chance we have to win this thing," Bowen said.

Meanwhile in the Stormcloak camp Kodiak and his men were gearing up for another attack but this time it wasn't just an attack, it was a battle. They made sure their weapons were sharp and their arrows true, so they could mow down everyone in their path. Durza had readied himself keeping in mind the spells he intended to use in battle against the woman and her dragon, "they won't know what hit them..." he sneered. It was then that Kodiak's voice rose into the air, "ready yourselves men...let's ride out!" he called as the men clambered up onto their daedroth and rode out of camp and headed straight for the battlefield.

Back towards the castle Draco still kept watch as his sight was keener than the humans, in an instant he spotted movement, "they're coming..." he growled. He turned to look down at the men below him, "sound the alarm! The Stormcloaks approach!" he called. With that the bell was sounded which roused everyone outside and down to the courtyard. Skygazer was atop her mare and stood with the rest of them as Bowen appeared next to her, while Draco stayed atop the battlement. Once they were gathered together Bowen led his men out onto the battlefield, seated atop his trusty stallion, holding to the very shield he held to during the rebellion. The group stood near the castle wall as they watched the Stormcloaks approach, "be ready..." Draco called down as he raised his wings into the air.

The Stormcloaks took up their line as they were attempting to intimidate their foe before the battle even began. Kodiak came to a stop for a moment before raising his weapon into the air as his men mimiced the action, "CHARGE!" he yelled as they charged forth onto the battlefield.

Upon seeing this Bowen raised his weapon, "form up..." his men readied their weapons, "CHARGE!" he called as he spirred his horse forward. Skygazer mimiced this action charging forward on her mare with her sword raised. Draco watched for an instant before taking to the sky with a roar. The archers up on the wall ready their bows, "ready..." said the Captain, "aim..." he held his hand in the air, "fire!" Upon giving the signal, the arrows flew straight and true, right into the line of Stormcloaks that sat atop their daedroth, taking out many of them in one shot. Seeing this surprised the Stormcloaks as they watched many of the daedroth fall to the power of the lightning arrow, "what? Magic? But how?" Kodiak asked. Durza narrowed his eyes, "the dragon..." he sneered. "We need to set our trap...and quickly..." Durza said. Kodiak nodded as he charged towards the woman upon her mare. Draco burned a few of the Stormcloaks before going in and snatching them off their mounts but upon seeing the Stormcloak leader running straight for his mate, he veered after the leader, "Sky!" he called down. Upon hearing his voice she looked up at him, "look out!" Skygazer, who had hopped off her mare to fight with one of the unseated Stormcloaks, turned just in time to see Kodiak coming towards her, "thought you would sneak up on me huh?" she growled as she blocked the strike of his sword. Kodiak was impressed with the strength this woman possessed, "a strong one..." he said, "perhaps you would be happier fighting with us..." he added. She narrowed her eyes at him, "not on your life," she pushed back off his sword, "my heart lies with the people of this land and the dragon that protects it. As long as I still breathe the mountain air, I will never allow you to hurt these people." Kodiak scoffed at her words, "you think you can protect them from me...you know nothing of my strength..." he said swinging at her again. "I don't need to...I know that we are stronger than you will ever be because we fight for what's right and just. We live by the Old Code...that's not something you will ever understand!" she shouted thrusting her sword at his shoulder then his head. Kodiak then took off towards the treeline, "oh running already are we?" Skygazer taunted as she chased after him. Draco meanwhile was flinging wayward Stormcloaks this way and that, trying to take out as many as he could before using his fire on them to put them down. He scanned the battleground and noticed the sorcerer wasn't with them, "now where could he be hiding?" he wondered but then he noticed Skygazer chasing after Kodiak, "what is she thinking?" he followed after her, taking out Stormcloaks as he went. It was also at that moment that Bowen noticed Draco taking off in that direction, "where's he going?" he wondered as he decided to chase after the dragon in case he needed his help.

Kodiak was leading Skygazer towards Durza, "hmn this is working better than I expected it to..." he thought to himself. Skygazer was so focused on chasing the Stormcloak leader she didn't take the time to think about this move, "what are you running for now? Stand and fight!" she yelled as she manage to catch up to him and used her sword to trip him up. Kodiak mentally cursed, "damn...she caught up to me before I could lead her to Durza...hmn but I can still make this work.." he thought to himself. "Come on then, let's see if you truly can take me on..." he taunted. "Need to give Durza time to get close to her to use his spell..." "You talk yourself up when you are on the back of your dragon but how about on the ground, alone..." he laughed. When she heard his words she then realized that she had allowed herself to be lured away by the Stormcloak leader, "damn...what was I thinking?" she said to herself, "no matter I can still take him." "Let's not delay the inevitable then," she growled as she lunged at him with her shortsword in her other hand. He brought up his sword to block her attack before spinning her around, in an attempt to disorient her. She shook off the effect of the spin and she looked over her shoulder at him, "you play dirty..." she snapped. "Oh you have no idea," Kodiak growled as he lunged at her again. She just managed to block his attack before taking her short sword and slicing at the leader, causing a small cut to his arm. He looked down at the open gash as he spoke, "well I'm impressed...you managed to draw my blood..." he said. "Don't expect me to say thank you..." she shot back. "Oh I wouldn't expect you to..." he said charging at her again. Durza meanwhile had snuck up to the clearing where Kodiak was fighting with Skygazer, "now to wait for the right moment..." he thought to himself as he peeped around the tree he was behind and readied his staff. Kodiak managed to get Skygazer's back facing where Durza was hiding, "come on if this is all you've got then I have nothing to worry about when it comes to your dragon," Kodiak taunted. "Don't you dare speak of him! You haven't earned the right nor will you ever..." she said, venom lacing her voice. "What is this guy's plan? Why is he just dancing around with me? He really isn't trying to take me out like I was expecting...unless..." the realization hit Skygazer like a ton of bricks, "he's stalling..." She then realized that Durza was behind her but it was too late he was already casting his spell. He spoke his incantation which wrapped his magic around her body and lifted her into the air, "damn you!" she shouted. Both Durza and Kodiak were laughing maniacally, "very clever girl but you noticed too late..." Durza sneered. "You're gonna regret this...once my dragon finds me, you two are history..." she spat angrily. The pair of men seemed unfazed by her threat, "oh we have a surprise for him too..." Kodiak laughed. Skygazer glared at these men, "damn-it what was I thinking chasing after him...I fell right into the trap they had set. I feel so foolish but I know Draco will come after me. He's bound to have noticed by now..."

Her thoughts were interrupted by a voice she knew well, "Sky!" the dragon called. "Draco!" she cried out when he landed near her but upon seeing her entrapped in the magical snare his eyes flashed brightly, "how dare you! Release her at once!" he demanded. "All in due time...we only wish to make you a deal..." Durza sneered. Draco's dragon eyes narrowed into slits, "I will never make a deal with someone like you...not ever." "Oh and here I thought you wanted your woman back," Durza said. Draco knew this sorcerer had evil intentions so he had to try to figure out what to do, "let her go!" he roared as he charged towards Kodiak in an attempt to snatch up the sorcerer in his jaws. Durza watched this interaction carefully before Kodiak spoke, "Duraza now!" he yelled. It was then that Durza began another incantation but when it had no effect on the dragon they were dumbfounded, "what! You said he couldn't resist that spell...what the hell happened?" Kodiak demanded. It was then that Draco's laughter drew their attention, "fools...did you really think that pitiful spell would work on me?" Durza narrowed his eyes, "damn you dragon...there shouldn't have been a way for you to resist that spell. Unless..." he stared at the dragon, "someone is helping you against me!" "What makes you think I'd tell you!" he roared as he swung his tail talon at the sorcerer, being mindful of his mate. Kodiak looked at Durza, "what do we do now?" he asked. Durza glanced at the Stormcloak leader, "looks like we don't need this woman then..." he said as he summoned a daedroth. "You better let her go Durza!" Draco roared. "Oh I fully intend to..." he sneered as he dangled Skygazer in front of the daedroth and upon doing so, it sank it's powerful jaws into her side making her cry out in pain. Upon seeing this happen before his eyes, something deep within him snapped, he became fueled by an uncontrolable rage as his feral dragon instincts took control, "you will pay for that!" he roared as he chased after them in an attempt to snatch up both men in his jaws as he ignored the pain he was feeling. Behind him Bowen had finally managed to catch up to the dragon, "Draco!" he called out. Upon hearing the Knight he spoke, "take care of Sky!" he called back. When Bowen saw the daedroth with the woman in his jaws he was shocked, "what the...Sky, hang on!" he called as he raced forward and drew his lightning sword that Draco had made for him. He swung at the beast's legs making sure to dodge it's tail and claws. Skygazer's side was burning in agony but she found enough strength to pull her dagger and plunge it into the daedroth's eye which made it release her from it's jaws. Bowen came to stand between her and the beast as he took advantage of it being distracted by it's injured eye to plunge his lightning sword into it's chest. It roared out in agony before it fell to the ground, dead. Bowen panted heavily as he turned his attention to Skygazer, kneeling in front of her, "Sky your side..." she cut him off, "don't worry about me...go after Draco, he can't take those two on his own. Go..." she said. Bowen shook his head, "no I need to get you out of here..." he was about to lift her into his arms when she pushed him away, "no go after the sorcerer and Kodiak, help Draco take them out...go!" she shouted. Bowen frowned, "you better be here when I get back.." he said darting after the dragon.

In clearing the two men were doing their best to try and escape the dragon on their heels, "you will pay for hurting my Sky!" Draco roared as his eyes burned as did his blood, his body was fueled by rage at what these men had done to his mate. He managed to get in front of them and created a circle of fire around them, keeping them where he wanted them, "nowhere to go now!" he boomed. Durza once again tried to cast the spell but it still failed to work, "give it up...your spells are worthless against me.." Draco said as he circled above them. He then dove down and snatched the sword away from Kodiak before slinging him against a nearby boulder with his tail. Now facing down an angry dragon Durza swung his staff to try and keep the dragon back, but it was futile as Draco snatched the staff away from the sorcerer before grabbing Durza in his mouth and sinking his jaws into him. Once he hung limp in his mouth he let him drop to the ground before looking at the Stormcloak leader who was starting to come to. Kodiak rubbed his head as he looked up into the burning eyes of Draco, "you will hurt no one any further..." he said grabbing a hold of him and shaking him until he was dead.

By this time Bowen had caught up with Draco and had witnessed him kill the Stormcloak leader. The Knight had never seen this side of the dragon before and in truth, it unnerved him, "Draco..." he said. The dragon dropped the leader to the ground before looking in the direction of the Knight, but to Bowen's surprise he acted as though he didn't even recognize him. When Skygazer had been injured his feral instincts kicked in and took control, "so Knight...you seek my death do you?" Draco growled as he raised his wings up slightly. Bowen stood his ground, "something is very wrong...he's not himself." His thoughts were racing wildly in his head, "Draco take it easy, don't you recognize me? It's me...Bowen..." he said.

It was then that another voice was heard, "Draco!" a feminine voice called out. Bowen turned to see Skygazer leaning against a tree, holding her injured side as blood ran down it. "Sky...what are you thinking?" he said. At that moment Draco noticed her, "so you have a woman with you? She looks very tempting..." he said licking his lips. Upon hearing her dragon's voice this way she knew that he wasn't himself and that for the moment, he was the wild, feral dragon he use to be. She knew she had to do something so she made a move towards him but was stopped by Bowen, "no what are you thinking? Can't you see he's not in his right mind? He's not himself..." the Knight said. Skygazer looked up at him, "I'm the only one who can reach him...I've done it before...a long time ago," she said groaning slightly, "when we first met he was the wild feral dragon you see now but over time I was able to reach him." Bowen stayed near her as he didn't trust Draco right now, "he'll hurt you if you try to approach him." "No he won't, I trust in the bond he and I have...I know he's in there somewhere. Please...I'm the only one who can bring him back...you have to let me try..." she was all but begging at this point. Bowen let a frustrated sigh pass through his lips but he wasn't gonna take his eye off the dragon. Skygazer limped over to the next tree but kept her bright blue gaze on her dragon's gold one, "Draco...Draco don't you recognize me?" she asked. The dragon was silent as he watched her closely, "it's me...Sky...your Sky..." she reached into the armor he had made for her long ago to pull out the charm she always kept around her neck, "see this..." she held it up for him to see as she continued, "you gave me this long ago, remember?" Draco took a small step towards her and Bowen kept a keen eye on him, "please...remember my love..." she said as tears began to sting her eyes. The dragon's golden gaze rested on the rose quartz charm around the woman's neck as he sniffed it carefully. Skygazer was fighting to stay on her feet, but her side was burning and she felt her blood streaming down her side. She couldn't give up, she had to keep trying, she had to reach her dragon that was still in there somewhere. "Don't you remember our home? Our cabin in your cave? Remember our binding ceremony and Aria, she performed it..." she panted for her breath as her legs gave out from under her. "Sky!" Bowen said. "Stay there Bowen..." she replied glancing over her shoulder at him. She quickly turned her eyes to her dragon once more, "Draco...please remember...our blood bond...can't you feel what I'm feeling now?" she said as she held her side. Draco felt his side burn slightly and then he felt an overwhelming feeling race through him. He felt the hurt...the pain...the anguish...the desperation but stronger than all that was the love he felt. He placed a claw to his chest, to the spot where she would often kiss, the spot that covered his heart. Skygazer closed her eyes as she tried to send a silent message to her dragon and upon doing so Draco looked at her. She watched him closely as his cold eyes became softer as did his hardened face, "my Sky..." he murmured. Unshed tears welled up in her eyes at hearing his voice, "that's right...my Sky...your Sky..." she said almost breathlessly. Draco placed his claw back on the ground in order to bring his head down to her level and nuzzle her gently. Skygazer felt relief race through her as she clung to her dragon as her tears fell, "Draco...my Draco...you have come back to me..." she wept. He nuzzled her affectionately, "my Sky...I'm here..." he whispered. She gave him a weak smile before she fell into darkness, "Sky!" Draco cried. Bowen approached, "is that you Draco?" he asked. The dragon glanced in his direction before looking back at his unconscious mate, "yeah it's me..." he replied. "We need to get her back to the castle..." Bowen said. Draco nodded his head as he lifted Skygazer into his dragon arms, "I'll take her there now..." he said as he took to the sky. Bowen watched them disappear for an instant before he turned on his heel and made his way back to where his men were waiting. No man fell to the Stormcloaks or daedroth, the only bodies that lay upon the ground were of the enemy.

Meanwhile Draco was on his way back to the castle with an injured Skygazer in his arms and once he got closer to the castle he called down to one of guards, "hey I need some help here...Sky has been injured!" he called. When he landed Hugh came over to him, "what happened to her?" he asked. "Daedroth..." was the dragon's only response to the man's question. He placed Skygazer down before transforming into his humanoid form in order to lift her back into his arms, "where's Kara?" he asked. "This way quickly..." Hugh said leading the dragon and the unconsious woman inside. Once in the castle Hugh called out, "Kara! Rose!" he called. Upon hearing their names Kara came into the foyer, "Hugh what is..." she stopped when she saw Skygazer, "*gasp* Draco what happened?" she asked. "A daedroth..." he said. She looked at him before looking over her shoulder, "Rose! We got an injury!" she called. When Rose saw who it was that was injured she became very worried, "quickly bring her this way..." with that Draco followed Kara and Rose into the side room they had set up for injuries, and placed her on the cot. Draco moved back to let the women work, "I hope she'll be ok..." he said to himself as he looked down at his blood-covered claws. Kara removed the armor carefully, so as not to injure Skygazer further before accessing her wounds. Draco fidgeted slightly as he watched them work, once the armor had been removed Kara set it aside. Draco looked at the armor and was surprised that the daedroth had bitten through it, "I will have to repair it but after I find out if Sky is going to be ok," he said to himself. Rose cleaned the wounds while Kara applied healing salve to the wounds before wrapping bandages around them. Once they had finished their work Draco took up his place by her bedside to keep a watchful eye on his mate. Kara left the room when she heard Bowen return, leaving Rose in the room with Draco and the unconscious Skygazer. Draco took Skygazer's hand in his claws as he pressed his lips to her knuckles, "is she going to be ok?" he asked Rose. She placed a sympathetic hand on the dragon's shoulder, "she is a strong woman I'm sure she'll be alright," she replied. Draco glanced at her briefly, "I know she's strong but this wound is bad...that daedroth's bite was really strong. It bit right through my scales on Sky's armor." When she heard this Rose's eyes widened slightly, "these are your scales?" she asked, running her finger across it. He glanced at her, "yeah it is...I made it for her long ago..." he said, turning his eyes back at his mate. The dragon once more looked at his blood-covered claws before grabbing a nearby cloth to clean it off. He took hold of her hand once more, "stay with me my Sky..." was his silent message to her, using their blood bond. Rose decided to let him be alone with Skygazer for now, "I'll be back later to check on her..." Rose said as she walked from the room.

It was around sunset when everyone had returned from the battlefield and had turned in for the night. After dinner had been served Bowen came into the room where Draco still sat beside Skygazer, "how is she?" he asked. Draco glanced over his shoulder at the Knight, "she'll still unconscious..." he let a sigh pass through his lips, "do you think she'll survive?" he asked.

The Knight had never seen the dragon like this before but placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder, "I'm sure she will survive...she's strong..." Bowen said, "she'll be alright." Draco turned his golden gaze back to his sweet mate, "we just served dinner...are you hungry?" Bowen asked. Draco shook his head, "no..." was his only response. Bowen understood that Draco didn't want to leave Skygazer's side, "I can have Rose bring it to you later on if you like..." he said. Draco gave the Knight a small smile. Bowen left the room to eat dinner before settling in for the night.

It was about midnight and everyone in the castle was asleep, everyone except Draco..he still remained awake to keep watch over his mate while she healed. He was flexing his wings restlessly and hoping with every bone he had in his dragon body that his mate survived her wounds. He still held to her hand but as he closed his eyes, he could feel in his heart that hers was barely beating, "come on my Sky...don't leave me now..." he murmured as he caressed her cheek. He could still feel his side aching because of their blood bond but it wasn't as bad as it had been earlier. He used his blood bond with Skygazer to feel every feeling in her body but then he noticed something. He looked down at her as he tried to figure out what he was feeling, "what is this?" he wondered. He closed his eyes and listened closely to the sound of her heart as it continued to beat in her chest. As he inhale her sweet scent he noticed the same scent from before. He focused his heightened dragon senses to listen to everything around him but when he did, he picked up on a slight sound that he hadn't before, "what's that?" he said as his eyes widened slightly. In that moment he understood, "she...she's..." he looked down at her as his face softened, "I never thought that this was even possible..." he felt a happiness radiate through him at knowing about this gift. He smiled at her as he caressed her cheek, "my precious treasure..." he murmured before placing a kiss on her forehead. He turned his gaze to look out the window as a shooting star flew across the sky, "please...don't take my mate and our gift away from me..." Draco said as he was asking the elders not to take her away from him now. He felt his heart breaking at the thought of losing her after all this time, after everything they had been through together. He stayed by her side the whole night but as night turned to morning he started feeling the effects of the battle on his body, "I can't sleep...not without knowing if she will be alright.." he said to himself. It was then that a soft voice came from behind him, "Master Draco..." he turned to see Rose. "Oh Rose...hi..." he said. She could tell that his mood wasn't good, he was tired and worried about Skygazer, "how's she doing?" she asked. He looked at her, "she's sleeping peacefully from what I can feel..." he said. Rose understood what he meant as she knew of their bond, "that's a good sign...the fact that she's resting peacefully." Draco nodded his head as she continued, "I don't know if you would want it right now but I brought you something to eat. You need to keep your strength up while she rests," she said. He knew she was right but right now his mind wasn't on food, "I do appreciate that Rose but right now..." he turned his eyes back to Skygazer, "my mind isn't on food..." Rose could hear how his voice wavered, "everything will be alright Master Draco...I know it..." Rose said. He only managed a half-smile when he glanced at her, Rose came over to check Skygazer's wounds and to change the dressing on them. She looked at the dragon, "I'll try to be gentle..." she said as she knew of the blood bond between the couple. She looked at the dragon, "can you help lift her?" she asked. "Yeah I can..." he said as he stood up. He came over to gently lift his mate carefully as Rose removed the old dressing. "Ok lay her down so I can clean her wounds," Rose said kindly. Draco sat back down while Rose cleaned the wounds gently so it wasn't an unpleasant experience for Skygazer or her dragon, "you are very skilled Rose..." Draco commented. She smiled at him as she began to rewrapped the wounds with the dragon's help. She was grateful to have an extra set of hands to do this task, "there we go...from what I can see her wounds are looking a little better than yesterday," Rose said. Draco was relieved to hear those words, "that's good to hear..." he said. He was silent for the longest time as Rose spoke, "she has a strong will to live plus she knows she has you waiting for her..." she reassured. He smiled at her as he caressed Skygazer's cheek lovingly before kissing her tenderly. Rose left the room to let the couple rest but left the food on the small table near Skygazer's bed.

The next couple of days Draco stayed at the castle, watching over his sleeping mate and helping in and around the castle. He wanted to do what he could while he was there but he didn't like leaving Skygazer's side even for a moment. He had to admit that it made him feel better knowing that Rose was taking care of her. He had come to trust Rose and he found comfort in having her close in case Skygazer needed anything. Bowen and Kara too would come to check on their family member to see how she was doing but Bowen knew the dragon better than anyone else here so he took him aside for a moment, "Draco...let's talk..." he said. The dragon was hesitant to leave Skygazer but he was curious as to what Bowen wanted. "Yeah..." he said. "You've been here for the past few days and you've barely left this room. You need to take care of yourself while she's healing, we can keep an eye on her," Bowen said. Draco shook his head, "I can't leave her side..." he said looking back at her prone form. The Knight understood that Draco was protective of Skygazer because she was his mate but he silently wondered what else was keeping him there. "You can't do anything for Sky right now, the rest is up to her. She needs rest so she can heal..." he said. Draco looked down slightly, "Draco...I've known you for a long time and I've never seen you like this. What has you so afraid to leave her side?" he asked. The dragon looked at the Knight as he spoke, "she...she's pregnant..." he murmured. Bowen could've been knocked over with a feather at the dragon's words, "what? Are you sure? How do you know?" he asked. Draco looked at Bowen, "when I was sitting with her the other night I was focusing my senses and using our blood bond to feel her, to know what she was feeling. Her injuries are healing but when I was listening to her heartbeat I heard a fainter one..." he explained.

The Knight was silent for the longest time before speaking, "I didn't think it was even possible..." he stated. Draco gave Bowen a small smirk, "yeah we didn't think so either...but it is..." he let a small smile play on his dragon lips. Bowen could see the pride that was on the dragon's face, "do you think Sky suspects?" he asked. Draco shook his head, "I don't know...I know she was sick the morning before the battle but other than that I don't think she knows." "How are you going to tell her?" he asked. The dragon had been asking himself that same question, "she has the same heightened senses I do ever since our blood bond. I can teach her how to hear the heartbeat...it'll be the only way she'll find out." Bowen cocked an eyebrow as he didn't completely understand what the blood bond was like but he knew that Draco would help Skygazer with it, "I know you will do right by her." "Yes I will..." Draco said but as the Knight went to walk away the dragon stopped him, "oh and Bowen.." the Knight looked at the dragon, "yeah." "You're the only one that knows...please don't say anything.." Draco asked. Bowen smiled, "ok but once she's healed.." he said. "We'll tell the others," Draco said.

As the dragon was ready to walk back in the room Kara called out to him, "Draco!" Hearing his name he turned his head and darted into the room, "what is it?" he asked. He looked at Skygazer as she began to wake up, "hmn...Draco..." she murmured. Relief washed over him as he went straight to her side, "I'm here my jewel...I'm here..." he whispered. She turned her head slightly to look at her beloved dragon, "I love you..." she said in a weak voice. Hearing her voice like that made fear run through him, "I love you too my treasure..." he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. She gave him one last weak smile before she closed her eyes once more...never again to open them, "my Sky...Sky..." he stood up slightly, "please Sky open your eyes..." he said as he was all but begging her. He then felt a sudden heaviness in his chest, "I can't feel her heartbeat..." His eyes held such emotion that the people around him didn't know what to think, "is...is she...?" Kara was afraid to ask. Draco closed his eyes tight, "she's gone..." he whispered. Upon hearing those words Bowen couldn't believe it, and Kara shook her head before burying her face in her husband's chest. Rose stood near them as she cried tears of saddness over the loss of Skygazer. Draco didn't know how to feel right now but as he tried to imagine a life without her, he shook his head, "no..." he said. The three humans around him watched him silently, "Draco..." Bowen said. "No I won't let you die my jewel..." he said as he used his claw to the lift the scale that covered his heart. "What...what's he doing?" Rose asked. Before Bowen could answer Draco spoke, "witness the wonders of an ancient glory..." he said using his claw to slit the protective covering over his heart to allow half of it to flow into his claw before placing it on Skygazer's chest. Rose had heard stories of how dragon's could share their hearts but never imagined she would ever witness it. After placing it to his mate's chest it disappeared into it as he spoke the words, "half my heart to make you whole...it's strength to purify your weakness..." As soon as the words left his lips Skygazer took a deep breath and began to awaken once more, "hmn...what happened?" she asked looking around the room slightly. She placed a hand to her chest, "my heart hurts..." she murmured. Draco smiled at her, "you mean our heart hurts...but it won't last forever.." he said. She looked at her dragon before realizing what he had done and tears streamed down her face as she sat up slightly. Draco embraced her warmly as their friends rejoiced around them, "she'll be alright now..." Bowen said as he motioned for Kara and Rose to follow him out of the room so they could be alone.

Now left alone Draco held her close to him as she buried her face in his chest before kissing the scale of over his now, half-heart, "I can't believe you did that for me..." she whispered. He nuzzled her affectionately, "I had to...I couldn't live a life without my mate..." he caressed her cheek as he said this. She sighed contently before she spoke, "...I heard it..." she said. He locked his gaze with hers and in her eyes he saw the realization of what he already knew, "you did?" he asked. She nodded her head, "I did..." she replied as he kissed her tenderly on the lips. The couple shared in the joy of this moment, both feeling so content with the knowledge of the gift they had been given. Draco then lifted her into his arms so he could carry her upstairs to their room for the night. When they exited the room they saw their friends standing together, "I'm gonna take her up to our room to rest...besides it's not just her now..." he replied as he nuzzled his muzzle against her cheek. Bowen remained silent but both Kara and Rose were shocked, "what?" Rose said. "Are you serious?" Kara asked. Skygazer nodded, "yeah..." she nodded her head as she smiled. "How?" Kara asked. "We'll tell you later..." Skygazer promised. They understood that she needed to rest so her body could recuperate, "alright Sky...we'll see you both in the morning..." Kara replied. "Night Sky...Draco," Bowen said. "Night Bowen, Kara, Rose..." she said. "Night Miss...Draco..." Rose replied. Draco then turned on his heel and made his way up to their room for the night. When he reached their room he placed her gently on her feet so he could open the door but once he had he lifted her up once more and walked into their room before shutting the door behind him. He made his way over to their bed and gently placed her down onto it, "I'm so glad that you're alright now my treasure..." he said. She smiled at him, "me too..." she said with a yawn. He pulled the covers over her before getting in next to her, "try to get some rest my Sky," he said kindly. She turned her head to the side to place a kiss on his lips before she turned onto her side and snuggled her body against the warmth of his, "goodnight my love..." she murmured. "Goodnight my precious one..." he replied as he wrapped his arm around her, letting his hand rest on her stomach. He draped a wing over her before letting sleep overtake his tired body.

During the night Skygazer woke up a couple of times to empty her stomach of it's contents, "blch...I was hoping that this wasn't going to be part of it.." she said to herself, wiping her mouth. After she had finished she sat in the chair on the balcony to let the cool night air calm her. Her mind was still reeling at the knowledge of the gift they had been given, she looked down at her still flat stomach to place a hand there, "it's hard to believe that this is real...I never imagined that you would ever be given to us..." she said, speaking to the baby she now carried. She smiled and she felt a deep sense of pride and protectiveness over their baby, "I wonder if it will be a girl or a boy..." she turned her gaze up to the stars as if asking for an answer. Her gaze rested on the constellation that had given her dragon his name, "please...let my pregnancy be smooth and our little one healthy.."

she whispered as the wind blew her hair around her face and carried her wish to the elders. She sat there for a few more moments before she stood up from the chair she had been sitting in and made her way back into their room. When she got back to the bed she smiled at her sleeping mate before she climbed back in beside him. She pulled the covers back over herself before snuggling against the dragon's body as sleep overtook her once more.

When the sun rose the next morning it found the dragon awake as he lay on his side, leaning on his elbow. He turned his golden gaze towards the window to look at the land beyond. He glanced over his wing to look at Skygazer as she still slept peacefully before he got off the bed to stand on the balcony in the early morning air. As he stood there he enhaled the crisp air and allowed it to fill his lungs and clear his mind. In truth his mind was restless because of what had happened during the battle, "I can't believe that I lost it like that..." He had to admit that he had thought about it while Skygazer had been healing but he had pushed it to the back of his mind because her wellbeing had been his main focus. However now that she had been saved by him sharing his heart with her, he began to think about his actions when she had been injured by the daedroth. He had never felt that kind of rage in his life, not even when Aura had been killed in front of him. He leaned against the railing of the balcony as the morning breeze billowed around him, tickling his wings which made him want to take a flight. He felt his half-heart race at the thought of flying through the skies again with Skygazer atop his back. He looked back over his shoulder to see her still curled up beneath the covers, he felt a smile play on his dragon lips at knowing he still had her in his life. He turned his gaze to the spot that covered his heart as he placed a clawed-hand there, "I'm glad I was able to do that for her...if this had happened during the rebellion, she and I would both be lost. We would still be together but not in the way we are now," he said to himself. He let his claw drop from his chest as he let his gaze roam over the land below and noticed that the people of the village were starting to stir from their homes. He allowed a smile to play over his dragon lips but upon hearing a soft sound coming from behind him, he turned his head to see that Skygazer was starting to awaken. He made his way back into their room just as she sat up in bed, "there's my beautiful treasure..." he murmured. She looked in his direction as she stretched her body, "good morning my love..." she said as she gave him a bright smile. "She's seems happy with herself this morning..." he thought to himself. "It's good to see you in good spirits my jewel..." he came over to sit on the bed next to her, "how are your wounds healing?" he asked. She lifted her shirt to have a look at the bite wounds on her side to see that they had been completely healed when he had shared his heart with her, "it seems they have completely healed..." Draco said. She nodded as she let her shirt fall back down, "yeah...it'll just be more scars..." she said. He tilted his head at her briefly as he noticed that she seem to have a glow about her, "are you ready to head back to our home?" he asked. She looked at him and nodded, "yes I am...I have been wanting to soak in the hot springs...that water would feel so good on my body." Draco was silent for a moment or two, "I don't know if the hot springs is a good idea...especially in your condition.." he said. Skygazer cocked an eyebrow at him, "what would make you say that?" she asked. The dragon scratched the back of his head in a very human-like manner which amused Skygazer, "I just think that maybe...getting in the hot springs wouldn't be good for our little one..." he stated. She looked down slightly before she spoke, "but the hot springs is how we bathe ourselves. How am I going to do that without getting into the water?" she asked. He thought about it for a moment or two before answering, "perhaps we can ask Rose maybe she will have those answers," he suggested. Skygazer thought about it and agreed with him, "she is mom so she's bound to know whether or not it's alright for me to get into the hot springs while I'm in this condition," she said. She looked up at her dragon, "I know that with this gift we've been given...we need to do our part to protect it to ensure that it's born healthy," Draco said placing a hand on her still flat stomach. A light blush covered her cheeks at this and it darkened slightly when he laid down in her lap to nuzzle against her stomach. She smiled at him and his gesture, it was so gentle and loving...she could see how he already felt such a strong connection to their little one, "I wonder if he'll be this way all through my pregnancy?" she thought to herself. He glanced up at her as gold met blue before he pressed his lips to hers in a loving kiss, "I love you my precious treasure..." he murmured when he let go of the kiss. As he caressed her cheek she smiled at him, "and love you my sweet dragon..." she replied, placing her hand on his before nuzzling and kissing his palm.

Later on that morning Rose came into the room to check on Skygazer, to see how her injuries were healing, "let's have a look at those injuries..." she said lifting Skygazer's shirt to have a look at the bite mark. When her eyes rested on it she was surprised to see that it had been completely healed, "it would appear that Master Draco sharing his heart with you healed your injuries as well..." Rose commented. Skygazer nodded her head as she spoke, "yes it's a special kind of magic in that..." she then became serious, "Rose may I ask you something?" Rose looked at the woman, "of course what is it?" she said sitting at the foot of the bed. "Well...it's about my pregnancy...I have some questions," Skygazer said. Rose nodded in understanding, "believe me I did too, when I found I was pregnant with Sapphire I had to find out how to take care of, not just myself but her as well. Finding out what I could do and what I couldn't." "That's one of the questions I have," Skygazer replied. Rose smiled at her, "here I can write them down for you, it'll help to keep track of it better...being that this is your first time." Draco sat silently as he listened intently to every word that left Rose's lips as she explained everything about what Skygazer may or may not experience plus things that were still safe to do, along with things that won't. Most males wouldn't want to be any part of a conversation like this but he was different, it was his duty to take care of his mate no matter her condition. Plus he learned a few things along with Skygazer and he would make sure do his part during this time in their lives. Skygazer sat silently for a few moments as she absorbed everything Rose had told her, "I do appreciate you talking to me about this stuff Rose, I wouldn't have a clue as to what to do..." Skygazer replied. Rose smiled, "it was a pleasure to share my knowledge with you Miss and I'm sure that Master Draco will see to it that you are well cared for during your pregnancy." It was then that the dragon spoke, "of course I will, she is my mate and it's my duty to take care of her..." he replied nuzzling Skygazer lovingly. Rose smiled at the couple, "well I imagine with your injuries healed that you will return to your cave?" she asked to which Skygazer nodded. "Well I will admit that I've become very fond of you both and I know that Sapphire has as well. You two will have to come back and see us sometime..." Rose said. Skygazer nodded, "of course we will." "We've become quite fond of you and your daughter too Rose," Draco added. Rose then stood from where she had been sitting, "well I will leave you to rest but I would like to see you two off, I will bring you some things to help with your nausea and that will keep you healthy throughout your pregnancy." "Thank you Rose..." Skygazer replied. Rose bowed slightly as she walked out of the room to leave the couple alone once more.

It was around midday when they were ready to leave the castle to return to their cave cabin, "I do hope that you will come back to see us," Kara said embracing the woman. "Of course we will," Skygazer replied. Rose approached them with a satchel in her hands, "here...these are some herbs that I mentioned earlier, they will help keep you strong and help with your nausea." Skygazer smiled at her, "thank you so much Rose." Rose smiled at her as another voice was heard, "Miss Sky...Master Draco..." they turned to see Sapphire standing next to Bowen, "Sapphire..." Draco greeted as he knelt down to her level. She ran up to the dragon and embraced him warmly as he returned it, "I will miss you both...you have to promise to come back to see us." Skygazer saw how attached the young girl had become to them both and she felt the same feeling Draco did, "we will come to see you all...I promise..." Draco said kissing the young girl's knuckles. She smiled as she pulled a small stuffed animal from her the small pack she had over her shoulder, "here..." she held the toy up for the couple to see, "this was my first toy I ever had..." she looked at Rose, "mama told me that you two are expecting and I wanted to do something nice for you." Sapphire placed the small rabbit toy into Skygazer's hands, "Sapphire this is so sweet of you...are you sure?" she asked. Sapphire nodded her head, "yes I'm sure...I look upon you both as family to me and mama," she turned to glance at Kara and Bowen, "I know they see you that way too," she turned back to the dragon and his mate, "we love you and I know it's not much but giving my first toy to your baby is my small way of welcoming he or she into our family." To say the couple was surprised was an understatement, they were shocked but they were both touched by young girl's loving gesture. "You're a very sweet girl Sapphire..." Skygazer said. "We love you too.." Draco added. Sapphire smiled as Bowen spoke, "Draco..." the dragon turned his gaze to the Knight, "if you two ever need anything..." Draco nodded his head, "thank you Bowen...truly.." he said before turning to Skygazer, "come we must get back to our cave before nightfall," he said. She nodded to let him know she had heard him, "goodbye friends..." Skygazer said as Draco bowed his head slightly. With that the couple got into their cart and began to make their way back to their cabin.

Now headed home silence pass between them for a moment or two before either of them spoke, "it feels good to be headed home..." Skygazer commented as a sigh pass through her lips. Draco let a smile play on his lips, "it does but this time it's different..." he stated. She sideglanced at him, "how do you mean?" she asked. "It feels different because we have a new chapter ahead us to prepare for..." he said. She nodded her head as she let her head lazily rest against his shoulder, "yes..I still can't quite wrap my mind around it...to be given such a gift..." she said. Draco smiled, "it appears that my return has brought good fortune to us both..." he said. Skygazer let her eyes rest on the horizon as the sky became painted with the sunset colors, "so beautiful..." she murmured as they got in eyeview of their cave. "Home..." she whispered. Draco purred at her comment as he brought their mare to a stop in front of the entrance of their cave cabin. He let a content sigh pass through his scaly lips, "it feels so good to be back home after all the chaos over the pass several days," he said as he turned to look at Skygazer before slipping from the cart. She smiled as she placed her hand in his claw, "yes it is...I've missed it..." she said before grabbing their pack from the cart. When she turned to look at Draco he spoke, "I'll take care of your mare my jewel..." he said. "Thanks baby," she replied. She was ready to walk into the cabin when he stopped her by wrapping his arms around her small form before pressing his lips to hers. She nuzzled against his chest before kissing the scale over his half-heart, "go on inside I'll be in, in a minute," he said to which she nodded her head. Draco brought Skygazer's mare over to the stable behind the cabin to remove the harness, cart and saddle. Once that was done he led her into the pasture to rest before closing the gate behind him. He smiled at her briefly before turning on his heel and heading inside the cabin where Skygazer was waiting for him.

When he walked into their cabin he saw their pack and satchel sitting on the chair in the front room and his mate leaning against it. He smiled upon seeing her but now with their bond being even stronger than before Draco knew exactly what his mate was thinking before she even made a move, "thinking of going to the hot springs to bathe?" he asked, knowing the answer. She looked at him with a smile on her lips, "you know me well..." she said, "Rose gave me a couple of things to use when I bathed..." she added looking into the satchel Rose had given her, "she gave me a cloth to bathe with since I can't get into the hot springs for the time being. This way I will still get to feel the hot water on my skin, just not in the way I would like to." Draco knew that she would have to change up a few things but he understood that there would also be some compromises that would be made in order to keep her happy. Skygazer understood that things were different for her now that she carried Draco's baby, but she could live with it because she wanted to do right by this gift they had been given. "Would you like to join me?" she asked, her voice laced with desire. Draco smirked at her, "hmm being fiesty already are we?" he said as he wrapped his arms around her and trailed kisses down her neck. She purred in response to him, as she had missed this feeling, her body was hungry for him and he knew it. He could feel it throughout his body that she desired him and he desired her just as much. He lifted her into his arms as he briefly broke off the kiss, "I don't think we'll make it to the hot springs..." he panted out as he carried her to their room.

Once there he placed her on her feet to remove her soft clothes before picking her up once more, to lay her down on their bed before laying beside her. He propped himself up on his elbow as he locked his gaze with hers before nuzzling the crook of her neck, giving her a soft purr-like growl as he did. She leaned her head to the side to give him more access as she rubbed her leg against his which caused him to wrap his tail around it. Draco brought his clawed-hand up to caress her cheek before interlocking his fingers with hers. He had never done this gesture when they made love but this time was different. He was being so gentle and loving with her body as he knew their precious gift rested within, "so beautiful..." he breathed. She smiled at him as he pressed his lips to hers in a tender kiss before trailing down her neck to her chest where her soft mounds lay exposed to him. He traced circles around her nipple with his tongue before gently suckling on it, Skygazer's breath hitched in her throat at the feeling of his lips and tongue on her soft skin. After teasing her breast he switched his mouth to her other as he brought his hand down to fondle the first. She arched her back slightly at this feeling and Draco gave her a purr as he continued his teasing. He trailed his tongue down her body, stopping to place several tender kisses on her stomach before moving lower to her intimate entrance. He smirked when she flinched slightly at knowing what he was about to do so he tried a gentle approach. He began to kiss her thighs and lick as close as he could to her entrance, as if to ask permission to tease her the way he wished. She was panting at the feeling he was bringing to her body and through their bond he could feel it too, he knew she wanted him to lap at her entrance and tease her walls with his tongue. She locked her gaze with his, her eyes glazed over with the deepest of desire he had ever seen. He gave her a half-lidded look as she opened up to him to allow him to place his tongue into her moist womanhood, to eagerly lap up her juices. He placed his head between her soft thighs before tracing circles around the little bundle of nerves just above her entrance. At feeling the tingling sensation he was giving her, she bucked slightly against his mouth as he placed his lips there to suckle on it. A gasp escaped her lips as she arched her back at this new feeling he was giving her. She didn't have time to think as he moved his mouth from the bundle of nerves down to her entrance which was already dripping. He darted his tongue in and out of her while he placed his clawed-hands on her thighs to keep her where she was. The pleasure he brought her made her head spin and she could do nothing but pant for her breath. He felt her desire for him grow hot and his body responded to her, his shaft became exposed and engorged...ready to enter her and bring her even more pleasure than his tongue was now. He rose up to press his lips to hers, allowing her to taste her juices on his lips. He positioned himself in front of her before pushing his member into her heated core, upon feeling him within her walls once more, her breath hitch in her throat. Draco let a pleasure filled growl emanate from his throat at feeling her hot cavern around his dragon girth again. His body felt hot and he knew it wasn't just him, Skygazer felt it too...he leaned down to nuzzle her as a thrum erupted from deep within his chest. Her body tingled at feeling his chest vibrate against her body, "oh Draco..." she panted. He purred in response to her moaning out his name...he raised his wings slightly as he began to thrust into her body with every bit of passion and love he had for her. Skygazer placed her hands on his shoulders as they got into rhythm with one another. Her heart raced and her body burned with the desire she had for her dragon mate, she loved him more now than she could ever put into words, "...oh yes...yes...Draco..." she panted out. Draco felt it too, his half-heart pounded in his chest, "my Sky...my Sky..." his desire for his mate grew into a glowing blaze as he continued to thrust into her. She purred to him as he continued his thrum, all the while their passion built between them so much so that it threaten to burn them both. With several pleasurable, passionate thrusts Draco threw his head back and roared as he came deep within his mate's body with her clinching tightly around his hard shaft and moaning out his name, "Dra-Draco..." she was panting for every breath she took as her body shuddered slightly as did Draco's from the exertions of their lovemaking. He brought his gaze down to lock it with hers before nuzzling her affectionately as she returned the gesture. After several moments he disconnected from her and move to lay on his back beside her. Skygazer lay her head on his chest as his arm came up to wrap around her small form, "*sigh* Draco..." she sighed contently. The dragon smiled as he pressed his lips to her temple before turning onto his side to caress her cheek lovingly. She rested her forehead against his muzzle as she felt their hearts beat in time with one another. She conveyed a silent message to him to which he responded by pulling her in close and draping his wing over her. She inhaled his calming scent while he buried his nose into her hair, "I love you my sweet Draco..." she breathed. "And I love you my precious treasures..." he murmured. They stayed cuddled in each other's embrace, enjoying the closeness they were sharing as they let sleep overtake their tired bodies.

When the sun rose the next morning it found the dragon already awake, he had always been an early riser. Normally he would watch the sunrise but this morning however he decided to stay laying beside Skygazer while she slept. He lay on his back staring up at the ceiling while his thoughts ran wildly in his head. His mind was on so much that had happened to them both and he knew he wanted to talk about some things with her because if he didn't then his thoughts wouldn't leave him alone. He turned his head to look at his mate before turning onto his side in order to pull her close to him in a warm embrace. He rested his muzzle against her forehead before placing a kiss there, "she is so precious to me, she always has been...but she's even more so now that she carries our gift..." he glanced down at her still flat stomach as a small smile played on his lips. "Even though I'm happy about what lies ahead for us, I can't help but think about my actions during the battle. How I snapped after she had been injured, if I had end up hurting her when I was in that state it would've killed me." He couldn't shake this thought from his mind no matter how hard he tried. He draped his wing over her form as he nuzzled her gently, he pulled back just enough to look at her beautiful face, "I'm so lucky to have her in my life...without her, I would've been lost long ago. It's because of her that I'm the dragon that I am today, she helped me see that there's more to life than just hiding in the darkness. She's taught me so much ever since we met...I don't know what I would do without her..." he said to himself as he closed his eyes once more. He was listening to the sound of her heart beating in her chest, as well as the faint heartbeat of their little one. He smiled when he heard it, "one thing is for sure...this little one will have much to learn one day with it being half dragon." He allowed himself to fall back into a peaceful slumber with his beloved wrapped in his arms.

A little later on that morning Draco was sunning himself outside their cave while Skygazer took care of things around their cabin. The day was peaceful and warm so Draco wanted to enjoy it by laying out in the warm sun, he had a content smile on his dragon face while he half-dozed. After many years he was finally able to lounge out in the open without any concern that dragonslayers were around. This was the world he had longed to live in for so long and he was seen as a protector of the land instead of a thing to be destroyed. He knew the elders were pleased that the world they had always hoped for had, at long last, come to be.

Inside the cabin Skygazer had just finished cleaning and decided to join her dragon outside in the fresh air and sunshine. Once she stepped outside the cabin she saw her dragon sleeping peacefully in the warm sun, "he looks so content..." she said to herself. She was in good spirits, she was feeling much better and she had Rose to thank for that, the herbs she had been given worked wonders for her and she was grateful for it. She took up her spot on the boulder that rested just outside their cave and lay across it, "*sigh* a perfect day..." she sighed. As she rested her mind wandered to something she felt earlier when she had woken up, "I wonder..." she glanced at Draco, "what would make him feel such concern?" She turned her eyes back to the clear blue sky to gaze at the clouds as they floated across the sky. While she cloudgazed she took notice to the shapes she saw, most of the clouds were whispy and looked like the mane of her mare as it blew in the gentle breeze. She let a small smile play on her lips, "so peaceful..." she sighed. It was then that a cloud caught her attention, "that one's shaped like a..." she looked at it for several moments before she turned to her dragon, "Draco..." she called gently. She waited for an instant before he lazily opened an eye, "hmn..." she turned to look back at the sky, "look at that cloud up there..." she said pointing. He then raised his head up to look at the cloud she was gazing at, "now that's not something you see everyday...a cloud shaped like a dragon..." he said. She found amusement in the way he spoke sometimes, when his slight accent came out, "yeah that is pretty interesting...I don't believe I've ever seen a cloud shaped like a dragon before," she replied as she micmiced it slightly. He smirked at her, "you like doing that don't you?" he asked playfully. She looked away slightly, "I don't know what you're talking about..." she replied playing coy. He knew it as he stood up and made his way over to her to nuzzle against her side, "my playfully one..." he murmured as a soft chuckle escaped his throat. She laughed as she turned her eyes back to the cloud, "I wonder if it's a sign..." she said. He tilted his head slightly, "how could a cloud shaped like a dragon be a sign?" he asked, laying down by the boulder. She looked at him, "I don't know..." she fidgeted with her charm slightly as she spoke, "but think about it though...what if it is?" she said looking at him fully. He looked down slightly, "I doubt it..." he replied as he lay his head back down on the ground. She looked at him before turning her eyes back up to the sky to watch the cloud float across the sky before it disappeared from sight. She was leaning back on her palms on the boulder before something caught her attention. She looked down at her stomach curiously, "I think I felt it move..." she thought to herself. She glanced out the corner of her eye to see her dragon was once more peacefully sleeping in the warm sun. She shook her head slightly before slipping off the boulder and going back inside the cabin to fix something to eat.

Once she was inside she decided, since Draco was sleeping, that she would go hunting and be back before he woke up. She pulled on her old armor, since her dragon armor had been damaged by the daedroth, "I will just have to be more careful this time...this armor isn't nowhere near as strong as my dragonscale armor was..." she thought to herself. She grabbed her bow and arrows and placed them on her back. Then going out to the pasture she retrieved her mare, then her saddle. She saddled up her mare before getting into the saddle and quietly walking past her dragon, "I promise I'll be back quickly..." she said to herself as she once again wandered off on her own. Now in the forest she rode along for a few moments before she spotted some tracks on the ground, "hmm what do we have here?" she said. She scanned the area before dismounting from her mare's back to inspect the tracks closely. She remembered her tracking skills and took note of the direction they were going, "this way...and they're not far either," she turned to her mare, "stay here girl..." she said gently as she took off in the direction of the tracks. She followed them for a few moments before she spotted them in a field grazing on clover, "perfect..." she said knocking an arrow onto her bow. She steadied herself before taking the shot, "right on target..." she said as the deer dropped in it's tracks. "A clean kill..." she turned her head to whistle for her mare and once she had entered the clearing Skygazer lifted the deer onto the back of her mare before getting back into the saddle and heading back to their cave. When she returned she laughed to see her dragon laying on his side, she shook her head slightly, "I wish I could sleep that deep..." she said to herself bringing her mare to a stop near the stall. She lay the deer on the ground before unsaddling her mare and placing her in the stall to rest. She then turned her attention to the deer, "now to clean my kill..." she murmured. She lay the deer on it's side and began to gut and skin the animal. She was very skilled at cleaning her kills and made sure to use all she could so nothing would go to waste.

It was about the time she got done skinning the deer that her dragon woke up to the smell of blood on the wind, "huh...I smell blood," he said as if expecting Skygazer to still be sitting on the boulder. When he looked beside him, he found that she wasn't but before he could get too exciting her voice reached his ears, "back here love..." she said. He turned his head to look behind himself, "Sky?" he asked. Skygazer came around to see her dragon looking at her, "see I'm right here..." she replied. She could see the relief wash over him but then he noticed the blood on her hands, "Sky you're..." she stopped him right there, "cleaning a deer..." she said. It took a minute for what she said to register in his brain, "wait..." he stood up and turned completely around to see the deer laying on the floor of the cave. He cocked a browridge at her, "when did you go hunting?" he asked. "I just got back, I went out while you were napping in the sun," she replied. He looked at her for a moment before speaking, "why didn't you wake me? I could've gone so you wouldn't have to..." he replied. She turned her head, "I know but I do need to keep up with my skills...I am still a very capable hunteress..." she answered. He couldn't argue with her there but still, he didn't like her going off alone, especially since she was carrying their baby. "I know you're a very skilled hunteress but I still don't like you going off on your own," he lowered his head down to her level, "especially since you're pregnant now." She knew he was only trying to look out for her but even in this condition she could still take care of herself, "my current condition doesn't change the fact that I can still take care of myself when necessary." He could tell from her tone that even though she understood his reasoning, it didn't mean that he should baby her, "I'm only looking out for you my jewel..." he replied gently. She wiped her brow before turning to look at her dragon as he brought his head near her, "I can see that he's going to be this way throughout my pregnancy..." she thought to herself. She let a sigh pass through her lips as she placed her knife back in it's sheath before standing up and placing a kiss on his muzzle, "I know you are and I appreciate it..." she said giving him a smile. He smiled before transforming back into his humanoid form, "want me to cook the meal tonight?" he asked. She smiled, "if you would like to then I won't stop you," she said, "I'll be right back...I'm gonna get washed up then come back." "Ok..." he replied as he watched her disappear into the cabin.

While he waited for her to come back he quickly set up a firepit to cook the meat over. He lit the wood with his fire breath before placing the meat on the stick that hung between two small poles and he paid close attention to it as it cooked so he wouldn't burn it. When she came back her hands were free of blood and she was wearing only her soft clothes. They sat silently for the longest time before either of them spoke, "Draco..." he glanced out the corner of his eye at her, which silently told her to continue, "do you think my armor can be repaired?" she asked. He remembered how the armor looked after the battle before answering her, "I believe so and I can take care of it after lunch," he replied. Her eyes lit up at the prospect of her armor being repaired so she could wear it once more. It didn't take long for the meat to cook and they began to enjoy the meal Skygazer had provided for them. After finishing up the meat she was eating Skygazer grabbed a second piece, "someone's got an appetite today..." Draco teased. She smiled, "you know very well that I'm eating for two now..." she replied jokingly. He chuckled before nuzzling her affectionately, "I know you are..." he pressed his lips to her temple as he too grabbed a second piece to enjoy. Between the two of them, they ate most of the meat that had been harvested from the deer before Draco took the deer carcass off while Skygazer turned the remaining meat into jerky to be eaten later.

When Draco returned he found Skygazer sitting on the boulder once more while she waited for him to come back. He smiled upon seeing her, "waiting for me to return my jewel?" he asked when he landed in front of her. She smiled as she hopped off the boulder and made her way over to him to stand in front of him. He knew what she wanted as he transformed back into his humanoid form and embraced her warmly. She nuzzled her cheek against his chest before kissing the scale that hid his heart, it was her way to silently tell him how much she loved him and he responded to her with his thrum. He then lifted her into his arms and flew to the top of their cave to look over the land around them. Once on top of their cave he set her on her feet before wrapping his arms around her and resting his chin on her shoulder. She leaned her head against his as a content sigh passed through her lips. They spent part of the day up on top of their cave talking about little things but later in the day Draco brought Skygazer back down to the ground so he could repair her armor for her. While he worked she decided to groom her mare and clean out the stall. After grooming her mare, she tethered her to the hitching post to clean out the stall. As she worked she hummed a song to herself and it didn't take her long to complete the task, "there we go...clean stall..." she said to herself. She put some clean water and freash hay into the stall before placing her mare back in it. The midday sun gave way to the evening light that painted the sky in the beautiful sunset colors. Skygazer sat on the boulder to wait for her dragon, "I wonder if he was able to fix my armor?" she wondered. She received her answer when her mate appeared with her armor under his arm, "there's my sweet dragon.." she greeted. He gave her a toothy grin as he held out her armor to her, "here you are my treasure, I was able to repair your armor for you," he said. "Aww thank you baby..." she replied as she gently took it from him to let her fingers trace the scales of her armor. He sat next to her on the boulder and draped a wing around her shoulders, "you still do amazing work my love..." she said, kissing his cheek. "Well you know I'm always going to protect you, plus I know you feel better now that you have this armor repaired," he said. She looked at him before resting her head on his shoulder as they watched the sun begin to set behind the mountain together. He rested his head against hers before wrapping an arm around her small form, to hold her close to his body. They were content in this moment as they enjoyed the beauty of the evening sky before them, drawing to a close a perfect day. Once the sun had set Draco lifted Skygazer into his arms and carried her inside to their room for the night.

When he walked into their room, he placed her armor in the trunk at the end of their bed before placing her down. She cuddled into the warmth of the covers as he got onto the bed beside her, "goodnight my precious treasure...I love you with every beat my half-heart makes.." he said kissing her lips briefly. She returned the kiss then gave him a tired smile, "I love you too my love...more than anything in this world. Goodnight my darling dragon..." she replied as a yawn pass through her lips. He pulled her close to his body, wrapped an arm around her, letting his clawed-hand rest on her stomach before draping a wing over her, "sweet dreams my jewel," he murmured as sleep overtook them both.

The pair slept contently through the night because they knew what lay ahead of them was a life together with the beginnings of a new family. They both had everything they ever wanted, everything they'd ever need because they had each other now and always.