Falling For a Dragon

by Draco'sDragonheartMaiden

A chance encounter with a young woman begins innocently enough but as he spends time with her Draco discovers who she truly is and the part of his past he thought was lost forever.

This story begins with a young woman, out alone in the forest. She is a beautiful young woman of thirty-three with long, waist-length coppery-brown hair and bright blue eyes. Her name is Skygazer, she had lived on her own since she was only twenty years old in a cabin she had built all on her own. She loved being out in nature, away from other people, only wanting to hear the sounds of nature around her.

One day she was out exploring when she heard something large ahead of her, "what is that?" she wondered to herself as she continued towards the sound. She moved quietly so as not to alert whatever it was she was hearing, "something making that kind of sound has got to be huge. But I don't know of anything that size around here." She continued onward until she reached the treeline and as she peered through the bushes she was surprised to see what was on the other side, "how...how is this even possible?" What was in front of her was a large open area with a small stream running through it and drinking from the stream was none other than a dragon. He was covered in copper-colored scales, which shimmered like gold in the sunlight, with charcoal, almost black scaleplates that ran from the base of his head all the way down his back to the tip of his tail where a lethal tail claw was located. The dragon had six alabaster-colored horns atop his head with two smaller ones above his deep, golden eyes. Skygazer had never seen anything like this before and she was mesmerized by the dragon's beauty, "wow...he's beautiful..." she whispered.

The dragon jerked his head up abruptly at hearing something close by, scanning the treeline closely and even taking a small step or two towards it as he scented the wind trying to pick up whatever he'd heard. "I'm sure I heard something.." he said to himself as he took a couple more steps towards the treeline. He listened closely, with his heightened dragon hearing he picked up on the sound of a heartbeat that seemed to be racing. He arched a curious, scaly brow as he scented the wind carefully to try and pick up on any scent that was in the area.

Skygazer knew to remain motionless to go undetected by the dragon as she was unsure if he was friend or foe, "I can't let him see me." Her bright blue eyes were able to get a good look at this dragon since he was a bit closer to her than before. His body was well built, muscular legs and powerful wings, piercing golden eyes that mesmerized her, "his eyes...they're...beautiful..." she whispered again.

The dragon glanced in her direction as he had picked up on her soft whispers, "hmm..." he began to step closer to the spot where she was hiding, scanning carefully again. Upon doing this he caught sight of a pair of eyes watching him from the bushes and to her surprise he didn't seem alarmed at her presence. The eye contact between them was brief but just as he was about to find her a voice came from beyond the treeline, "Draco!" The dragon didn't look too pleased to hear a man's voice calling for him, he let a frustrated sigh pass through his lips, "what is it Knight?" he called back. "Where'd you go?" called the voice. "I'm right here...honestly Bowen, it's like you think I disappeared," Draco replied. "You know I'm not going to just let you go remember, we have a deal," Bowen called back. Draco rolled his eyes, "yeah I know..." he replied shaking his head, "why did I have to cross paths with the one Knight who acts like a child?"

From her spot in the bushes Skygazer eyes widened slightly, "so...his name is Draco and whoever is on the other side of those bushes is a Knight called Bowen." Somehow those names seemed familiar to her but she couldn't quite place them, "at least I know this Draco is a friendly dragon...or somewhat anyway. Perhaps I should pick the right time to approach him..." she said to herself. She watched Draco for a few moments more to see him look back in her direction once more, as he spoke, "I'm not sure who you are but you have no need to be afraid of me. We'll be camping close by...should you decide to seek me out again." The young's woman's eyes widened slightly as she watched him turn away and head back through the bushes from where he came. She was unsure of what to think right now but she was intrigued by this dragon, "perhaps I will seek you out again Draco, I'd like to get to know you." With that she slipped back into the undergrowth to set up a small camp to remain close to where Draco and Bowen were.

By late evening the two had settled down at their camp with the Knight on one side and Draco on the other. Both had become somewhat comfortable with one another but still remained a bit wary as well. Both had a hard time trusting because of their current situation. Bowen had once been a Knight of the Old Code but no more, now he was a dragonslayer because he sought the blood of one particular dragon on his blade. The dragon he was looking for had shared his heart with a young man, a Prince and believed that he had been corrupted by the dragon's evil. In truth he knew what he had been doing was wrong but the anger and betrayal he felt was much worse and it was driving him into madness. He was going against everything he had once believed for the sake of revenge. Unbeknownst to the Knight, Draco was the very same dragon he was looking for. He was the very one who had hoped by sharing his heart, that the Prince would be turned from evil to good, oh how wrong he was. The Prince had grown into a monster and by doing so, had damned Draco's very soul and prevented him from ever being able to join his breathen in the dragon's heaven. Draco's guilt was immense and he didn't know of anything to undo what had been done, he did however intended to keep his past a secret from this Knight as long as he could or risk the shaky alliance they had.

Skygazer was sitting at the edge of the treeline watching the pair curiously, trying to understand how the two were even working together to begin with. However she became distracted from her thoughts when Draco suddenly roared out in agony, with his shoulder flaring bright red causing him to flop over onto his side. Her instinctual response was to run to his side but stopped when she saw Bowen grab his blanket, soak it down and throw it onto Draco's shoulder, causing steam to rise from it. With worry in her eyes she felt bad for Draco, "I wonder what caused his injury?" She remained at the edge to keep an eye on the dragon, "I hope he'll be alright." Draco soon settled down and allowed sleep to overtake him while the Knight watched over him.

A little later Skygazer was fighting sleep while she watched over the camp where Draco and Bowen were. "At least he's resting comfortably," she said as a yawn pass through her lips. She was ready to get up and go back to her camp when she noticed Draco rouse from his slumber to find Bowen watching over him. She watched them speak briefly before Bowen drifted off leaving the copper male alone and awake. A gentle breeze began to blow around the area bringing with it a sweet scent that filled the dragon's nostrils and made him glance in her direction. When he caught sight of her face again, his eyes' widened slightly. Realizing she had been seen by Draco again she slipped further back into the bush in hopes he would follow her. Draco had watched her depart, "I guess she decided to seek me out again..." he said to himself. He glanced down at Bowen who was laid out on his bedroll and sleeping deeply, "he should remain asleep while I'm away..." he said to himself as he carefully found his feet and quietly walked away from the camp.

He ventured back into the underbrush looking for the young woman he had seen watching him, "I know she came this way.." he said to himself. Now that he was sure he was far enough away he decided to call out to her again, "you may reveal yourself, I am alone." He waited a moment or two before the sound of rustling leaves drew his attention in the direction it was coming from. It was then that Skygazer stepped into the open, allowing Draco to see her fully, "well hello..." he greeted. She smiled shyly at him, "hi..." she replied. Draco took a small step towards her before laying down so as not to frighten her, "I'm glad you decided to seek me out again. I'm a bit curious as to why you were watching me?" Skygazer bit her lip slightly before answering, "it's just that..I've never seen a dragon before and I was curious." Draco nodded his head, "I understand that but why are you out here alone? If you don't mind me asking?" "I live out here, have ever since I was twenty years old," she replied. "Have you no family who miss you?" he asked to which she shook her head. Draco became silent for an instant before speaking again, "may I know your name?" he asked. She gave him a small smile, "I'm called Skygazer but you can call me Sky.." she replied. "Skygazer..." he tried it out on his tongue, "it's a lovely name." "Thank you," she said with a light blush on her cheeks. He couldn't hide his curiosity, "I take it you saw all that earlier?" he asked to which she nodded. "Do you have questions for me?" he asked. She took a small step towards him as she spoke, "what made your shoulder flare up like that?" she asked. Draco immediately looked away from her, "uh nevermind...forget I asked..." she said turning away from him. Draco glanced back in her direction to see her standing there with her back turned to him, "no..." she turned her head when she heard his voice, "no..it's ok..." he let a sigh pass through his nostrils. "Forgive me I shouldn't have asked something so personal..." Skygazer whispered, "I was just concerned." Hearing this caught his attention, "you...were concerned about me?" he asked curiously. Skygazer slowly turned to face Draco again, "well...yeah...it took everything I had not to run to your side when you..." she stopped herself when she saw Draco's face. "I was at least glad Bowen helped you though," she added. He nodded his head, "yeah..." he glanced at his shoulder, "an old complaint that acts up now and again..." he stated. Skygazer arched a brow at his words and he noticed, "it would seem that she's more curious about me now." "So how did you two cross paths?" she asked, changing the subject. Draco chuckled, "long story..." he replied. "Well..." she came to stand in front of him as she continued, "I have nowhere to be if you'd like to share it with me," she said with a smile on her lips. Draco looked into her bright blue eyes and he could see the sincerity in them and knew she had spoken the truth, "alright but I want you to promise me something." "What's that?" "Never breathe a word to anyone," he said kindly. Skygazer decided on a bold move as she knelt down in front of him and placed her hand on his claw before locking her gaze with his, "I promise Draco." Initially surprised by the action Draco shook his head slightly before gently placing a finger on her hand, "very well." Draco then began to reveal everything to her, even the cause of his shoulder pain and by the end of his tale Skygazer was fighting back tears. The dragon was surprised at himself that he felt compelled to confide in this young woman who he barely even knew. Silence passed between them for the longest time before either of them spoke again, "you've been through so much haven't you?" she asked finally. Draco let a heavy sigh pass through his lips, "yes I have and to my knowledge there is no way to undo what's been done. I am cursed...doomed to disappear as if I were never here at all." Skygazer felt bad for Draco and she wasn't sure what she could say to aliveate Draco's sorrow over his actions. She looked down at his clawed-hands before meeting his gaze, "you couldn't have known any of this would happen.." she said. Draco closed his golden orbs, "I knew what kind of person he was and still I thought my heart could change him, I was so naive.." he said laying his head down and turning away from her. Skygazer merely stared at him as she tried to decide what she should do, "I have to do something but what?" In that moment she decided to try something in an attempt to ease the dragon's mind, she moved closer to him, placed her hand on his claw and rested her forehead against his cheek. At feeling her soft touch Draco opened his golden eyes but remained still, he was too surprised to even say anything, "what is she doing?" he wondered. He didn't have to wonder long when he noticed her hand begin to glow along with her eyes as a calming sensation enveloped him in it's warm embrace. He felt his eyes close once more as he allowed Skygazer to continue with whatever it was she was doing.

When the light faded the pair pulled back just enough to see each other's face, "what was that?" he smiled, "it's a kind of calming magic...I was born with the ability but I never found out where it came from though," she explained. "Is that why you live out here alone?" Draco asked. "Yes...I didn't feel comfortable with anyone knowing my secret," she replied. He nodded his head in understanding but became distracted when she yawned, "you should try and get some rest..." he said kindly. "Yeah I guess I should, my magic always leaves me feeling drained..." she said. Draco slowly moved his muzzle to gently nuzzle her, it was then he received another surprise when Skygazer purred in response to him. He pulled back abruptly and arched a scaly brow at her, "what is it Draco?" she asked. He tilted his head as he spoke, "you act as a dragoness would.." he answered. Now it was Skygazer who tilted her head, "me? A dragoness?" she asked. Draco lowered his head so their eyes met, "who were your parents?" he asked. "I don't know...I never knew them. I only know who raised me but when I would ask about my parents they would never answer," she replied. Draco was silent for a moment before asking something, "Sky...would you mind if I tried something?" he asked. "No not at all..." she replied. "Close your eyes," he said gently. She did as he asked of her before resting his muzzle against her forehead, taking in a deep breath as his eyes began to glow as he tried to get a feel of her. Skygazer remined still and silent, allowing Draco to continue, she could feel his essence fill her mind and his warmth flood her body. What she could not see, was that Draco was using what magic he had to get a sense of who or what this young woman was. With the power of his magic, he was able to feel every part of her, her heart, her soul, her mind, he could sense something so strong and yet so familiar within her. In that moment, he understood and as the light faded he pulled back gently, resting his golden orbs upon Skygazer as she looked up at him. "What was that?" she asked. "It was my magic..." he stated, "I was using it to get a feel of who and what you are." This caught attention, "what I am? What do you mean?" she asked. "It's quite simple really..." with his eyes locked on hers, "you...are a dragoness in human form." Upon hearing this Skygazer's eyes widened slightly, "what? I'm a dragoness? How...how is that possible?" she asked. "It would appear that your parents were not as they appeared to be. Some dragons can take a human form and if they bring a child into the world while in that form their young will be as well," Draco explained. Skygazer was left somewhat baffled at hearing all this as she tried to wrap her mind around everything she had just heard, "how can I find out for sure?" she asked. "I'm not sure...there are no other dragons left as far as I know unless they are in hiding. If there were any left we could ask them and find out how you could take your true form," he replied. Skygazer wasn't sure what to say, "where would we even begin to look?" Draco shook his head but then he noticed the changing sky, "it's nearly dawn.." he commented. Skygazer looked down slightly, "I guess I'll let you get back to camp, don't want that Knight to notice you're missing." Draco could tell she wasn't too fond of Bowen right now but didn't respond, "you know...I don't have to go back yet," Skygazer looked at him curiously, "I could just tell him that I went out on a hunt when I go back." She gave him a soft smile as she was somewhat relieved that he wasn't going to leave her just yet and he could clearly see her delight, "are you sure?" she asked. He reached out to her with a gentle claw, "I'm sure..." he caressed her cheek, giving her a warm smile as well. In the short time they had been around one another, a bond had already formed between them and though they weren't sure what kind yet they were eager to see where it led them.

The rest of the time was spent with Skygazer comfortably leaning against Draco's shoulder with his wing draped over her, blocking most of the cool night air from her. He remained on guard while she rested and caught a few hours sleep, leaving him time alone with his thoughts. "There's something so familiar about her but I can't quite put my claw on it." He lowered his head just enough to look at her, "who could her parents have been and why was she never told about them?" He was left with more questions than answers at the moment but he made up his mind to help when he could find time to get away from Bowen long enough to do so. In all honesty he wasn't sure where he could really look to find the answers she longed to find. However, he did know a woman who might know, "I hope she'll be able to give Sky the answers she's looking for." He became distracted when he heard movement back in the direction of the camp where Bowen was, "I better go on a hunt so Bowen won't find her.." he said to himself. However he didn't want to leave her alone and unprotected but knew if he didn't do something quickly the Knight would come looking for him. So standing up carefully, he lowered his head and picked her up by her shirt then placed her onto his back. He walked further into the brush and found her camp and bedroll, "she really did set up close to us..." he mused. He turned his head and carefully lifted her from his back and gently placed her onto her bedroll before covering her with her blanket. He added a bit of his flame to her fire to ensure she stayed warm before slipping into bushes to hunt down something to eat, "her first then the Knight..." With that in his mind he set out to hunt down prey. He quickly found a rabbit, ironically, caught up in a briar and snatched up the critter in his jaws. With a quick shake of his head it hung limply in his mouth, "now to get this back so she'll have something to eat when she wakes up." He made quick work of skinning out the rabbit and placed it onto the cooking spit to roast over the flames. Now satisfied that she was taken care of, Draco slipped further into the forest to find something for Bowen.

Back at his camp Bowen was just starting to wake up only to find himself alone, "now where could that dragon gone off to?" he wondered. He didn't have to wonder long as Draco appeared with a deer in his jaws as he gracefully landed in front of the Knight, "there you are..." Bowen said. Draco placed the animal on the ground in front of him, "did you think I disappeared again?" Draco teased. Bowen rolled his eyes at Draco's comment, "do all of your hunts end in success?" he asked absently. Draco merely shook his head, "not always..." was his only response as he skinned the deer then cut the meat from it. Bowen came over to place the meat over the fire to cook as Draco added a bit more flame to the fire before taking the carcass off and returning to camp.

Back at her camp Skygazer was just waking up and found that she was back at her camp with a rabbit roasting over the fire, "how did I end up here?" she wondered. When she raised up the cover slid from her body and into her lap, "he even went so far as to bring me back to camp and made sure I had something eat. He's so considerate..." she said with a smile on her lips. She remained on her bedroll while the rabbit cooked over the fire as she reflected on her time with Draco.

Draco was bedded up beside the fire while Bowen ate on the deer the dragon had brought back. Draco didn't have much of an appetite as his mind was full of the things he had shared with Skygazer the night before. Bowen took notice, "Draco..." he called but he saw that the dragon didn't respond. The Knight cocked a brow curiously at Draco's demeanor, "hey!" he said, rasing his voice slightly. It was then that Draco was jolted from his thoughts, "huh...what is it?" he asked. Bowen chuckled amusingly, "where's your head at this morning?" he asked. Draco looked away briefly before answering, "I don't know what you're talking about," he replied as he tried to feign ignornance. Bowen could tell Draco was hiding something, "are you hiding something?" he asked accusingly. Draco abruptly stood up, "are you accusing me of something Knight?" he asked, slightly annoyed. Bowen was a little apprehensive, "yeah...you're hiding something from me and you're acting strangely." Draco furrowed his scaly brows, "hmph you barely know me so how can even say such things?" he retorted. Bowen let his blue eyes scan Draco briefly before turning his attention back to the deer meat. Draco merely rolled his eyes but in the back of his mind, he held worry about Bowen finding out about Skygazer, "I can't let him find out about her..." he glanced subtly over his shoulder, "I have to protect her now." With that in his mind, he tried to relax himself so he wouldn't alert Bowen to anything unintentionally.

Later in the day, after conning another village of gold Bowen had set up a camp in the same area they had stayed the night before, much to Draco's delight. Once they had settled down after a successful conning job, Bowen focused on sharpening his sword and cleaning his saddle. Draco decided to slip into the forest at the pretense of procuring their meal, "I'll be back soon Bowen...I'm going get us something to eat for later." "Alright..." Bowen said, not looking up from his work on the saddle. Draco then slipped into the trees and disappeared from Bowen's line of sight.

Now away from Bowen, Draco let a sigh pass through his lips as he began to briskly walk in the direction he knew Skygazer had told him her cabin was. He walked for a little bit before coming upon the cabin and found Skygazer sitting outside reading a book, "there she is..." he said to himself as he approached. She had heard approaching footsteps but when she felt the gentle breeze hit her in the face, it brought with it Draco's scent. She looked curiously in his direction but then smiled at him, "hey Draco." "Hey Sky..." he replied as he neared her, "I noticed you seemed a bit curious when I was approaching." She nodded her head, "yeah...I picked up something I hadn't noticed before." Draco tilted his head playfully and had a smirk on his lips, "were you picking up on my scent?" he asked. A small gasp escaped her lips as her blue eyes met his gold ones, "yeah I think so.." she answered. "Perhaps my magic helped to unlock your natural abilities," he reasoned. "Yeah it might have..." she said. "Don't worry, with time you'll become more intuned with them and you won't even think about it," he reassured. She smiled at him as he lay in front of her, "so are you two camped nearby again?" she asked. "Yes I actually insisted that we come back here as it very much secluded from everyone else anywhere around," he replied. She smiled as she knew part of the reason why Draco had made sure they would be close by, "you wanted to be near me again didn't you?" she asked, giving him a soft smile. He glanced away briefly before finding her eyes again, "it would seem you've learned much from our encounter last night," he whispered. Her smile remained as she reached out to him which was a subtle hint to Draco, he lowered his head and placed his muzzle against her palm, allowing her to touch him. She ran her fingers over the small, soft scales on Draco's muzzle, caressing him so fondly before tracing the scar on his lip. When their eyes met again they simply stared at one another but in that instant something passed between them, which forced them to move towards one another. They didn't fight it and allowed this encounter to continue, Draco raised a gentle claw to caress her face and hair as he tilted his head slightly while she mimiced the action. They were mere inches apart as their eyes fluttered closed and they pressed their lips together in a tender kiss. Draco deepened it slightly when he rested his other claw on the small of her back and drew her in closer to him, to which she complied. She placed her hands on his neck, feeling the rough scales beneath her fingertips but relishing in his warmth, "this feels so familiar to me somehow. But why?" As this crossed her mind she felt something deep within her come alive, "what's this feeling? It feels like something has been awakened in me." Draco was feeling something within him too but he didn't have to think about what it was, he knew...he knew and it made his heart soar, "ame li êmae..." he murmured as his eyes began to glow. At the same time a silvery, golden light began to snake it's way from Draco's chest and enter Skygazer's body, filling her with a familiar warmth that enveloped her in it's embrace.

What was happening was something truly rare in the dragon world, what had been created was called a soul bond. The essence of the dragoness within Skygazer's body had spoken to Draco in a way only he could understand and in doing so allowed him to unlock the memories that had been sealed away in the back of Skygazer's mind. When they let go of the kiss Skygazer was lifted into the air as her body began to glow with the same silvery, golden light with Draco watching in amazed silence. Skygazer felt her eyes begin to glow as her body began to transform from one of a human to that of a dragoness. Her body grew larger, becoming slenderly built and covered with beige scales with coppery-brown scaleplates running down her neck and back to the tip of her tail that sprouted from her backside. Two delicate wings sprouted from her shoulderblades with a lighter shade of beige on the membranes of her hands and arms were covered in smaller scales with the tips of her fingers and toes having small brown claws on the ends. Two short horns grew from her head, her eyes were slightly angled, slitted and brighter than before. As the light faded she was lowered to the ground and lay curled with her wings laying on either side of her. Draco looked on curiously before carefully approaching her still form, "Sky..." he murmured lowering his head and licking her cheek. Feeling his soft tongue against her cheek made Skygazer begin to come back to consciousness. When her eyes slowly fluttered open she looked up at Draco, "hmn...Draco..." she whispered. He smiled at her, "take it easy..." he murmured softly. She slowly raised her head up, placing an unknowing claw to her head, "what happened?" she asked. Draco smiled at her, "look..." he whispered kindly. When Skygazer looked down at her hand she saw that it was now a claw, "what? What happened to me?" she asked, turning her head to look at herself. She saw that her body was no longer one of a human woman, she was now a dragoness, "is this what I've been all along?" she asked absently. Draco smiled as he nuzzled her, "yes ame li êmae...you have returned..." he replied warmly. She turned to look at him at hearing the phrase he was using, "love of mine..." she murmured. The warm smile never left Draco's face, "yes my Sky..." he whispered. She returned the nuzzle as everything came back to her in a flash and she remembered who and what she truly was. "I have come back to you my shining star...and I will never leave you again," Skygazer whispered, tucking her muzzle beneath Draco's chin, giving him a soft purr in the process.

Back at their camp Bowen had noticed that Draco hadn't returned, "where did he get off to?" he questioned. He let a frustrated sigh pass through his lips before grabbing his sword and saddling his stallion, "I'll find him and then find out what's been keeping him." Bowen rode along for a little while and came upon the tracks that Draco had left behind, "where's he headed?" he wondered out loud. He continued to follow them, heading in the direction they were leading.

Back in the clearing near the cabin the pair of dragons were solely focused on one another as they were being driven by natural instincts that had been awakened within them. Now knowing who she truly was, she was eager to be reclaimed by her long lost mate and reaffirm their bond of love. Draco inspected Skygazer closely, nuzzling beneath her chin, down her neck before rubbing his body down hers, letting the tip of his wings brush against her side. He was making a chuffing sound as he inspected her, coming around her other side to mimic the same action, brushing his wingtips against her side before lowering his head and nuzzling up her neck, running his tongue along her jaw. Skygazer gave him a half-lidded look when their eyes met before she began to mimic what he had done. She nuzzled her way beneath his chin, rubbing her cheek against his shoulder, brushing her wings against his side with her tail trailing beneath his chin in a teasing manner before rubbing it along his stomach and between his muscular thighs. Draco's pupils dilated as he closed his eyes and thrummed seductively at feeling the sensation she was creating against his sheath. When gold met blue the intent was clear and Skygazer moved to lay in front of him, presenting herself to him, letting her tail rest to the side. When Draco came in close to her, she seductively wrapped her tail around his neck rubbing it beneath his chin. He continued his thrumming sound as he lowered his head, slipping his tongue from his mouth to lick at her entrance making her whimper and pant slightly. A soft chuckle rattled from the copper's throat as he slipped his tongue into her warmth, tasting her sweetness on his tongue and enhaling her sweet scent. He raised his head up slightly before placing his clawed-hands on her hips and lifted himself up onto her back, keeping one foot on the ground for balance. Skygazer purred softly to Draco, never letting her gaze fall from his as his length slipped from it's sheath and entered her warmth in one swift motion, coiling their tails together. She whimpered when she felt him enter her saturated walls and panted for her breath, "it's just as I remembered..." "Indeed it is ame li êmae..." Draco replied through their soul bond. Their rhythm was sensual and heated, filled with passion that had never truly died, it was as if they had never been seperated at all.

Now nearing the clearing where the pair were located, Bowen began to hear sounds coming from up ahead, "what is that?" he said as he urged his stallion onward. However when he came to the treeline he was able to see into the clearing but was shocked at what he saw, "what the...?" His mouth hung open at the sight before him, "so...this is what's been distracting him?" Bowen chuckled, "clever dragon...now why would he keep her a secret from me?" he said as he continued to watch them.

Their panting and whimpers filled the air around the pair of dragons as they were interlocked with one another, "Draco...*pant*...*pant*..." "...My Sky...*pant...pant*...my Sky..." he purred as he lowered his head to nuzzle her. With several passionate thrusts he raised his wings and gritted his teeth as he released his seed into her with Skygazer clenching around his length to hold him where he was. Draco caressed her side with a clawed-hand and licked her cheek when she turned her head enough to nuzzle him affectionately. They remained still as they rode the waves of ecstacy together until Draco completely released his seed into her waiting body. After a moment or two both collapsed to the ground with Draco laying on Skygazer's back until he was able to move again. Several moments passed until Draco had the strength to get down from his mate's back, carefully stepping down so as not to fall over. He folded in his wings as his length returned to it's sheath which allowed him to lay down beside Skygazer and nuzzle her lovingly. She returned the gesture before resting her head against his neck while he rested his chin on the top of her head and draped a wing over her.

Bowen still remained where he was as he continued to watch the pair, he had to admit that everything he once thought about dragons was wrong, he never realized that they were no different from humans. The Knight decided against confronting the copper male and turned his stallion back in the direction of their camp knowing the dragon would return before sunset.

At that moment Draco noticed movement from the corner of his eye and had seen Bowen's retreat. He decided not to mention it to his mate for now as they simply enjoyed this moment together, "I'm so glad to have found you again ame li êmae, I have missed you dearly." "I have missed you too my treasured one," Skygazer murmured.

What Draco hadn't realized at first meeting her, was that she was his first ever mate that he'd been with long before he knew the Scarred One. This female had been slain just before she was able to lay their clutch of eggs. He had been deeply shattered over her loss and for the longest time he refused to leave her where she fell. Unfortunately, he had to leave her behind. Before doing so he carried her body back to their cave where they had shared a life together for so many years and sealed it off so nothing would ever disturb her. He had never dreamed that she would return to him in human form after being seperated for so long. He had feared that she wouldn't remember him or anything they had ever shared with one another if they did somehow manage to find each other again. He was so grateful to whatever had allowed her to return to him so they could be together again. It felt so good to have her warmth against his body once more and he purred contently to her as he raised his head and licked her cheek. She giggled and smiled, the light of the sun making her eyes shimmer with the love she held in them for him. He smiled at her and rested his muzzle against hers, "now and always ame li êmae..." he murmured. She purred softly to him, "now and always ame li êmae..." she whispered. When they pulled back just enough to look into each other's eyes Draco noticed the change of the sky's colors, "sunset..." he whispered. Skygazer turned her eyes to the sky to see he was right, "yes it is and it's more beautiful than it ever was..." she said. He agreed with her, "yes it is...just like you..." he whispered. A light blush played on her scaly cheeks but her smile never faded from her lips, "come...we should find us something to eat before we lose the light," Draco said. "Alright..." she said standing up and stretching her body and wings for a moment or two. He smiled at her, "you ready to fly again?" he asked. She laughed as she opened her wings and took to the air making him laugh, "guess that answers my question..." he stated as he launched himself into the air with her.

The pair flew across the sky effortlessly, being carried by the wind current beneath their wings. Skygazer flapped a bit faster to get in front of Draco before playfully glancing over her shoulder at him. A smirk appeared on his face, "sultry little minx..." he purred as he moved to fly beneath her, brushing body against hers with enough pressure that it drove them both wild. He held his claws up to her and she placed hers into his, they flew upright, climbing higher and higher until they were at the desired height. They flew around playfully, still holding to each other before drawing themselves close together, wrapping their arms around one another and coiling their tails together. Finding each others intimate slit, they became locked together in the air sealing their true bond in their mating flight. Their rhythm was the same as it had been on the ground, sensual, passionate, tender, yet hungry and demanding at the same time. They folded in their wings and allowed themselves to go into freefall, never ceasing their movements until they reached the peak of their pleasure. Draco clenched his teeth and bathed his mate's heated walls with every bit of seed that he had while she clenched tightly around him bathing his length in her juices. Both panted heavily as they broke away for safety and flew effortlessly across the sky once more. Along the way they managed to catch two deer before heading back in the direction Draco knew they had set up camp with Skygazer following right behind him.

Bowen was sitting on his bedroll, just staring at the flames that flickered in front of him. His mind was focused on what he had seen in the clearing earlier and what Draco had told him during their duel a couple nights before. It seemed to the Knight that Draco knew the female he had seen him with but Bowen couldn't understand it, "he said he was the last...if he knew he wasn't then why say so?" He became distracted from his thoughts when he heard wingbeats coming from above him and looked up to see the pair of dragons coming into land gracefully in front of him. Draco was the first to place the deer down on the ground only to notice that Bowen had a rabbit roasting over the flames, "it would seem you managed to find prey on your own," he stated flatly. Bowen ignored the comment as he turned his blue eyes to the female, "who this you have with you?" he asked. Draco glanced at Bowen before turning his eyes to Skygazer, "this is Skygazer..." he replied. "Hello Bowen," she replied. This caught the Knight by surprise, "you told her about me?" he questioned. Draco shook his head, "she heard us talking yesterday," was his only response. Bowen cocked a brow at the dragon's words while he watched them skin the deer they had caught, "answer something for me..." Draco glanced in Bowen's direction which silently told him to continue, "if you knew she was nearby then why say you were the last one during our duel?" he questioned. Draco let a sigh pass through his lips, "I'll explain in a moment," he stated as he roasted the deer in front of him with Skygazer mimicing the action.

As the pair began to eat Draco explained everything to Bowen and the Knight hung onto every word that left the copper dragon's lips. By the time the two dragons had completely devoured their deer meat Bowen was left speechless and silent, unable to form words or thoughts. Skygazer cuddled against Draco's body and rested her head against his neck while his wing draped over her and their tails wrapped around one another. They knew Bowen needed time to absorb everything they had told him before he would respond one way or the other. Draco glanced up at the sky as it became filled with stars, his eyes seeking a particular constellation known as the dragon's heaven. He knew he would never shine among those stars but he still longed to. Sensing this Skygazer purred softly to him to soothe him, he nuzzled her tenderly before licking her cheek and purring. After absorbing everything Bowen turned his eyes to look at the dragons, "so...you really didn't know that it was her before?" he asked. Draco shook his head, "no she didn't know until I used my magic to unlock her memories and help her to take her true form again."Bowen bit his lip nervously and Draco noticed, "what is it Bowen?" he asked. "I'm sorry...for everything I did to your kind, to the Scarred One...I was so wrong..." he said covering his face with his hands. Skygazer glanced at Draco briefly before turning her bright blue orbs to the Knight, "I don't know if you'll believe this or not but we don't hold any ill will towards you. The hurt of the betrayal and anger was driving you..." she said. Bowen turned his eyes from the dragoness to Draco, "what about you Draco? Do you share in your mate's words?" he asked. Draco merely nodded his head, "though I am not happy about my breathen being slain, I understand what it's like to be driven by vengeful rage and deep hurt." "Is that what you felt when you lost her?" Bowen asked to which Draco nodded. Bowen chuckled and shook his head, "we aren't so different..." he stated. Draco chuckled, "I suppose not." "Is there really no way to undo what has been done?" Bowen asked. Draco shook his head no but Skygazer decided to speak, "dearest..." Draco glanced at her curiously, "when you unlocked my memories something else came back to me. I remembered every bit of magic I learned long ago and there is a spell that can restore a heart after it's shared." Draco's eyes widened slightly, "what? Are you sure?" he asked. She nodded her head yes, "I am..." she replied, "you can be saved from your mistake and erase it forever." Draco felt his half-heart flutter in his chest at the possibility of making it whole again. Bowen rested an arm on his thigh as he spoke, "how does that work? What do we need to do?" he asked. Skygazer thought about it briefly before answering, "we need to capture Einon...lure him into a trap and ensure he can't escape..." she said. "Is that even possible?" Bowen asked. "Yes, we just need to get him out into the open to where one of us can snatch him off his horse and get him away from his Knights," Skygazer replied. Bowen was quiet for a few moments before speaking again, "I know the villagers are trying to start a rebellion against Einon, if we join in the fight our plan might work." After their discussion quieted down Skygazer lay her head on Draco's forelegs and easily slipped off to sleep next to her mate, cuddled in his warmth. Draco smiled down at her before looking back at Bowen, "I truly hope that this works..." he said. Bowen gave Draco a half-smile as he spoke, "yeah I hope it does too..." he glanced at the beige dragoness, "for her sake." Draco nodded his head before lowering it and licking her cheek then laying his head down to get some sleep. Bowen too settled down onto his bedroll, pulling his blanket over him and allowing sleep to overtake him as well.

When morning came it found the copper dragon already awake, still curled around his mate as she slept at his side. He looked down at her peaceful face before lowering his head to lick her cheek. When he pulled back he saw her smile in her sleep which in turn made him smile, he then turned his attention to the dead fire. In a single breath he brought it back to life, making it burn brightly once more. With the fire burning Draco knew he would need to hunt something down so the Knight could eat, he and Skygazer on the other hand, could go a few days without eating. He glanced at Bowen's still form before quietly standing up and making his way into the forest in search of prey.

Despite being rather large, Draco could move quietly and was quite stealthy when he needed to be. He carefully stalked through the underbrush in hopes of finding prey, "the clearing is just up ahead..." he said to himself as he continued. When he reached the treeline he indeed spotted a lone deer in the clearing, taking a drink from the cooling stream, "perfect." He knew he had one chance at this and he had to time his strike just right or he'd have to start all over again. He waited patiently at the treeline and watched as the deer finished drinking and began to make it's way in his direction. He got ready to attack as the deer got closer and closer until it came into strike range. With one quick motion Draco snatched the deer into his jaws before shaking his head violently causing the deer to hang limp in his mouth. He smiled to himself as he headed back towards camp with his prize.

When he returned he found both Bowen and Skygazer still peacefully sleeping, he placed the deer on the ground in order to skin it and prepare it for cooking. The task itself took no time for the dragon to complete, within minutes he had the deer skinned and the meat over the fire cooking. He took the carcass far from camp to ensure no predators found them before returning to keep an eye on the meat as it cooked. When the smell of meat began to waft in air it brought Bowen back to consciousness, "what smells so good?" he asked groggily. Draco chuckled, "I caught a deer on this morning's hunt." Bowen let a yawn pass through his lips, "you are an accomplished hunter..." he praised as he stood up to stretch the stiffness from his body. Draco smiled at Bowen's compliment, "I imagine your skills are quite good as well..." he stated. Bowen splashed some water from the bucket onto his face before responding, "well I don't know about that..." he said finally, "most of the time I miss." Draco arched a brow at Bowen, "oh really? Then how did you manage to feed yourself before I came along?" he asked in a teasing manner. Bowen chuckled, "I would usually go to some town or village instead of roughing it. Seemed easier that way," he reasoned. "Hmm perhaps I need to give you a lesson on how to be a better hunter then," Draco replied with a laugh. Bowen shook his head at the dragon, "you're in an awfully good mood this morning. It doesn't have anything to do with her does it?" he asked motioning towards the sleeping dragoness. Draco let his golden eyes rest on her for the briefest of moments before answering, "partially..." he admitted. Bowen wasn't surprised after what he witnessed the day before, "if only I were so lucky..." he muttered under his breath. Draco tilted his head at the Knight as he clearly heard him, "something you'd like to share with me Bowen?" he asked resting his chin on his palm. Bowen glanced at Draco briefly before grabbing his waterskin and pressing it to his lips, "no..." he replied flatly. After placing the top back on the waterskin Bowen sat back on his bedroll and simply stared into the flames. The tension hung in the air between them and Draco was determined to find out what the cause was. Draco swallowed down the frustration welling up in his throat before speaking, "does it have anything to do with what you saw yesterday?" he asked. Bowen's eyes widened slightly as he looked away from Draco, "uh huh I thought so..." the dragon whispered, "how long were you there before you found us?" he bit his lip before meeting Draco's intense gaze, "not long...I just..." the Knight was having trouble finding his words, "when you didn't come back I decided to come looking for you. I never imagined that...that was what I would find or even see for that matter." Draco nodded his head to let Bowen know he had heard him, "part of me wanted to turn away because I felt like I was invading your intimate encounter but...at the same time, I was...for a lack of better words, fascinated. I'd never seen anything like that before..." he said. Draco was slightly amused by Bowen's words, "most don't...it's normally done in the air or in a secluded place, away from curious eyes and ears. It's really when we are the most vulnerable..." he admitted. Bowen felt a pang of guilt fill his chest, "sorry..." he said quickly. Draco merely waved a claw in Bowen's direction, "at least it was you and no one else..." Draco replied as he checked the meat, "it's ready." Bowen licked his lips, "good I'm starving..." he said. Draco chuckled at the antics of Bowen in the morning, as it was quite enjoyable.

A little later that morning Skygazer had woken up and the three were chatting over their plan, Bowen would go on ahead to meet up with Kara and tell her of the plan and about the dragons. For now Draco and Skygazer would remain in the area where they had camped over the past two nights, knowing they would be safe there. Bowen had promised to bring Kara there to meet them so as not to alert either Einon or his underlings to what was going on.

The pair of dragons were sunning themselves on the cliff, soaking up the warm sunshine on their scales. Draco felt very much content, he was free to live without having to lurk in holes and skulk in darkness. He had found his long lost mate in human form and returned to her, both her memories and her true form. He now felt whole once more and he couldn't help but endulge in the prospect of having his heart purified and restored to him. He turned his head enough to look at the beige female laying near him, he felt as though he were dreaming at seeing her again. Now in this moment of calm he reflected on the last memory he had of her.

Draco's Memory:

The copper male had been out on a hunt when he returned to find his mate standing at the entrance waiting for him. He smiled upon seeing her and placed his prize on the ground in front of her in order to nuzzle her lovingly, "I am happy to see you too ame li êmae.." he murmured, licking her cheek affectionately. She purred in response to his affection and nuzzled her way beneath his chin and rested her head against his neck. When she pulled back she locked her blue eyes with his golden ones as she spoke, "I'm glad to see your hunt was successful..." she said stepping closer to the deer. "Well if I won't such an accomplished hunter then I wouldn't be able to feed myself or my mate.." he replied, stepping closer to her and nuzzling her neck. Skygazer raised her head and smiled at him, "you always take good care of the both of us," she said nuzzling under his chin. He returned the gesture but when he pulled back he saw tears welled up in her eyes, "ame li êmae...?" he gave her a curious look, "is something wrong?" he asked her. She merely shook her head, "no dear..." she whispered as she turned to allow him to see her side and belly. At first he didn't understand but when she glanced at him then at her side, he followed her line of sight. Upon doing so he noticed the subtle change that she was showing him, "I understand now..." he whispered as his face softened and his golden eyes held a warmth she knew. He stepped towards her and lowered his head to nuzzle her side gently before meeting her gaze and then moving to nuzzle her. This was the gift their love gave to them, they were to have a clutch of eggs together. Skygazer was overjoyed as was Draco, "we've been given a gift..." he murmured as he continued to nuzzle her. "Yes we have..." she whispered.

End of Memory:

Draco was jolted from his memory when he felt the gentle touch of Skygazer's wing. He turned his head to look at her, she purred softly to him to help soothe his unsettled mind. He smiled in returned to her affection before moving to lick her cheek, "remembering the past?" she asked with a knowing smile. "Hmn...I can't help it..." he whispered, "it's as if it happened yesterday." She merely nodded her head, "I know ame li êmae..." she raised her head enough to tuck it beneath his chin, "but we're together now and nothing will ever seperate us again." The copper male nuzzled his female so tenderly to reaffirm their bond and strengthen their love for one another. Silence passed between them for a moment before Skygazer spoke, "do you think we'll have that again?" she asked. A small gasp escaped the copper's lips before meeting her gaze briefly, "perhaps...with time, it'll be given to us again..." he replied with a soft smile on his lips. Skygazer's face softened as she spoke, "I hope so..." she whispered. Draco playfully nuzzled her before flicking his tongue against her cheek, she giggled at his antics and mimiced the action adding a playful nip at his shoulder. He chuckled as he went into the forest with Skygazer following behind him. When they reached the small stream they playfully splashed in it, flinging water at one another and laughing. When they stopped their eyes met and in that moment they became locked on one another. Draco approached his mate with eyes half-lidded and seductively swaying his body, to tease Skygazer. She wore a playful, sultry look on her face and giving him a half-lidded look as well. The signal was clear and neither would deny the other's desire for an intimate encounter. With his golden gaze locked on her blue one, Draco moved close to her, nuzzling his way under her chin, down her neck and to her shoulder, making a soft chuffing sound as he did so. Brushing his wingtips along her side, he trailed his tail along her chest and belly, never letting his eyes leave hers. When he came around onto her other side he raised his wings enough to where his body gently caressed hers, ending his teasing by nuzzling his way up her neck and running his tongue along her jaw. She purred in delight at the sensation running through her body as it was now her turn to tease her mate. She pressed her lips to his in a heated kiss before running tongue along his jaw, nuzzling beneath his chin and down his neck to his shoulder. Rubbing her body against his, trailing her tail under his chin, along chest and belly as well in between his muscular thighs. His pupils dilated slightly at feeling the sensation of her tail over his sensitive sheath where his girth was hidden, tilting his head back slightly as a thrum erupted from his chest. Her response was to purr to him, trailing her tail beneath his chin again but when she came around his other side she moved to lay down with Draco following close behind her. When she presented herself to him, he eagerly came in to inspect her and began to lick at her entrance with his tongue. The feeling of his tongue against her sensitive flesh sent jolts up her spine and made her pant for her breath. She kept her eyes on him, never letting her gaze waver for even a moment. He too, kept his gaze on her as he continued to lap at her entrance with his tongue, tasting her sweetness and letting her scent fill his senses. "Come my love...claim your mate..." she purred seductively, all the while giving him a half-lidded look. He gave her one of his own as he eagerly granted his mate's request, "I would never deny you..." he purred, placing his hands on her hips and lifting himself up onto her back, placing one back foot on her hip, leaving the other on the ground for support and balance. He lowered his head to nuzzle her, chuffing and thrumming to her as his length slipped from it's sheath only to enter her heated core in one swift motion. She gasped and panted at feeling him within her walls, "...Draco...*pant pant*...Draco..." "My Sky..." he purred almost breathlessly. His length throbbed within her, filling ever inch of her intimate crevice and bottoming out. He felt her clench around his girth, silently urging him to move and he wouldn't disappoint. He began to move his hips back and forth with slow sensual motions, letting her get a feel of him before getting into a more passionate rhythm. Skygazer enjoyed this, this feeling of him inside her, claiming a part of her that only belonged to him...her heart raced in her chest and she felt as though they were one. This feeling of love was something you could not simply explain, it was something that had to be felt. She raised her head enough so that her muzzle rubbed beneath his chin as she whimpered softly, which caused a thrum to reverberate in his chest. Draco began to thrust more passionately into her as the feeling of her heated walls and the sound of her soft whimpers were driving him. Their tails came to twirl around one another as their panting became more audible, "...*pant pant*...my Sky..." came Draco's almost breathless moan with Skygazer calling out her mate's name, "...Draco...oh yes..*pant*..my Draco..." Hearing her moans made his body run hot and movements became more passionate, groaning and panting as he moved. Her moans had begun to echo in the clearing which only drove Draco into a more frantic rhythm with well aimed precision. With several sensual, passionate thrusts, Draco pressed his tumescent length completely into Skygazer's heated core, raised his wings and gritted his teeth as he bathed her saturated walls with every bit of seed he had in his body. She clenched tightly around his swollen girth, holding him in place as she bathed him in the fluids of her release with her moaning out his name, "oh yes...oh yes...Draco...Draco..." she panted out. Draco lowered his head and purred into her ear, "...my Sky...my Sky..." he purred breathlessly. Their bodies shuddered as they rode the waves of ecstacy together, holding themselves up on shaky limbs.

With their bodies still locked together, the silvery, golden light began to emanate from both of their chests, each light entering the other's body. Melting both of their consciousness together as one and eternally linking their souls and minds together in the same manner as a blood bond. Draco raised a shaky claw and bit into his palm, causing a groan to pass through his lips. Skygazer turned to look at her mate and noticed what he was doing, when he glanced from his bloodied claw to her, she understood the silent message and mimiced the action. With both their blood drawn Skygazer turned her body enough to be able to reach his claw and pressed her palm to his. And though there were no longer any elders to speak the words, Draco knew them and he felt compelled to speak them, "to this heart you bind as one, to share in each other's 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." As the incantation was being spoken, a bright golden light began to shine from Draco's eyes as it encircled them both in it's glow. This was a bonding, a sacred act that is rarely performed in the dragon world. For it to be done, is to be eternally bound to one individual and syncing the lifespan so it matches their mate. When the light faded, their wounds were healed and they were left feeling closer than they had ever been. Skygazer turned her head towards her mate in order to nuzzle him, which he happily returned, "I love you ame li êmae..." he whispered. "I love you too my shining star..." Skygazer purred. With his seed completely filling her cavern, Draco gave one last languid thrust as she clenched around him. He flicked his tongue against her cheek and carefully got down from her back, folding his wings in at his sides before laying down next to her. Skygazer relaxed against his warm body to the point where she was half-way laying on her side, resting her head on her mate's forelegs. Draco lovingly lick Skygazer's muzzle before resting his head on the point where her shoulders met to rest in the warm sun with his wing draped protectively over her.

Some time later Bowen returned with Kara to find the dragons not where they'd been when he left, "where are they Bowen?" Kara questioned. Bowen glanced over his shoulder at her, "they were here when I left because this is where our camp had been for the past two nights." "Do you think they flew off?" Kara asked. Bowen shook his head, "no...they won't risk being seen yet." Bowen slipped from the saddle, leaving the red-haired maiden sitting atop his stallion. Taking a few steps towards the remnants of the campfire he took note of the tracks, "they must've walked into the forest...there's a clearing nearby that has a stream running through it," Bowen said as he began to walk towards the forest with Kara following on horseback. Stepping through the treeline, they quickly came to the clearing and indeed found the pair of dragons resting together. "Wow..." Kara could hardly believe what she was seeing, "you were right Bowen." Bowen's face wore a somewhat smug smirk as he turned his attention to the dragons, "Draco...Sky..." he called. A moment or two passed before the copper's eyes fluttered open as a yawn pass through his a shake of his head he turned to see the Knight standing in front of him, "Bowen you've finally come back. I thought perhaps you got distracted by..." Draco paused as he noticed the red-head sitting atop Bowen's stallion. He looked at her curiously before turning to the Knight, "who is this you have with you?" he questioned. Bowen turned to the maiden as he spoke, "this is Kara...she is the one I told you two about earlier." Draco nodded his head then turned his eyes to Kara, "a pleasure..." he said. Kara smiled and nodded, "who's that at your side?" she asked kindly. "This is my mate...Skygazer," he replied. "Bowen told me you found her the other night when you were here," Kara said. "Yes but there's more to it than that," Draco replied. He could see the curious look on her face, "I'll explain it to you later I promise," Draco replied. Kara merely nodded her head as Bowen spoke, "come on let's get back to camp so we can talk." "Alright Bowen, we'll be right behind you in a moment," Draco stated as Bowen walked back in the direction with Kara following him.

Now left alone once more Draco turned his gaze to his mate, lowering his head and nuzzling her gently before licking her cheek softly, "come my beauty..time to rise..." he whispered. Feeling his soft tongue against her cheek and hearing his sweet voice in her ear, Skygazer began to awaken, "hmn...ame li êmae..." she murmured. "I am here my gentle one," he replied nuzzling her again. Her eyes slowly fluttered open, meeting the golden gaze of her Draco. She smiled at him and raised her head as a yawn escaped her lips, "has Bowen returned?" she asked curiously. "Yes he has and he has Kara with him," he answered. "Are they at our camp?" she asked to which Draco nodded, "they are waiting for us.." he added. "Alright..." Skygazer yawned again before shaking her head and standing up. Draco stood up as well before they walked back to camp together where the two humans were already settled.

When they walked into the camp they saw Bowen was trying to get the fire going, Draco shook his head and sent a fireball onto the wood startling both humans. "Whoa!" Bowen shouted as he jumped away from the inferno as did Kara. When Bowen raised up he turned his blue eyes towards the dragons, "hey! Next time warn me!" Draco chuckled, "oh come on Bowen, you should know by now that I'd never hurt you." Skygazer glanced at her mate then to the red-head sitting next to Bowen, "I take it you're Kara?" she asked kindly. Kara nodded her head, "it's nice to meet you." "Same to you Kara," Skygazer replied as Draco turned his head in her direction. "I am pleased that you decided to come with Bowen," Draco said laying down with Skygazer mimicing the action. "Yeah, I felt I had to and besides...Bowen seemed insistant," Kara replied. "It was in everyone's best interest," Skygazer added. Kara cocked a brow at the dragoness, "how so?" she asked. Skygazer glanced at Draco briefly before receiving a nod from him, "do you wish to know the whole story?" she asked. Kara thought it over for an instant before responding, "yes I do." "Very well..." Draco replied.

Over the next few minutes the two dragons began to explain everything to both Kara and Bowen and by the end, both were left completely speechless. Draco and Skygazer knew it was a lot and they needed time to absorb everything, "do you really believe this will work?" Draco asked through their soul and blood bond. Skygazer nodded her head and smiled, "I truly do...I remember what to do to ensure this will work. It'll be as if it never happened," she reassured. Draco smiled and nuzzled her lovingly, "thank you ame li êmae." For several moments Bowen and Kara both simply stared into the flames in front of them, still trying to wrap their minds around everything the dragons had told them. Kara was the first to speak, "Sky..." the dragoness looked at the red-head, "is this really possible?" Kara glanced at Draco, "saving him?" she asked motioning towards the copper male. Skygazer nodded her head, "yes it is but we can't do it without your help, everyone's help in the village. We need them to rally around us so we can take the castle and bring Einon out where we want him. That way we will be able to snatch him up and carry him away from his Knights." Kara was silent for a moment before speaking, "are you ready to start a fight against Einon now Bowen?" she asked. Bowen looked at her with stern blue eyes, "yes I am...we just need the people of the village to listen to us." "I can take care of that, we can return to the village in the morning and rally the people. Prepare them for a battle and then bring you two in and show Einon we will no longer take his evil ways," Kara stated with her fist clenched. Draco nodded his head and smiled, "good for you lass..." he said as Skygazer nodded her head as well. "With what I witnessed years ago I know the people of the village will rally again against that tyrant," Bowen added. "Here here..." Skygazer cheered. After the serious conversation quieted down a casual one began, "so tell me something Draco...what will you do once this is all over?" Bowen asked. Draco didn't have to think about his answer, "I will live my life with my Sky...and perhaps, have what we would've had if she hadn't been taken from me," he replied nuzzling Skygazer gently. Kara glanced at Skygazer, "you were pregnant when you were slain?" she asked. Skygazer nodded, "yes I was...I was only a couple days away from laying our clutch of eggs." "Damn..." Bowen sighed, looking down sadly. "You must've been so heartbroken..." Kara replied. Draco nodded, "I was...for almost a week...I refused to leave her." "Then why did you?" Bowen asked. "The threat of dragonslayers...I was forced to flee, but I made sure to place her in our cave and seal it off so nothing would disturb her," Draco answered. Kara's face softened, "you really went above and beyond for her didn't you?" she asked. "Yes I did..." he made his golden eyes rest on Skygazer's blue ones, "she's my mate and even in death I wasn't going to allow her to be found by either man or beast. I wasn't going to let her body be desecrated..." he replied. Skygazer was touched by her mate's actions, "ame li êmae..." she purred as she nuzzled her way under his chin. Draco smiled and rested his cheek against her head, "now and always..." he murmured. Kara had a curious look on her face, "what is that phrase?" Kara asked. Without looking at her Draco responded, "it's a phrase from the old dragon language...it's also the only phrase that consists of syllables pronounceable by man that means, love of mine." Kara placed a hand over her heart, "how beautiful..." she said. Even Bowen agreed, "who knew there was so much more to your kind," he raised his head just enough to look at Bowen, "I thought you had learned that the other day Knight.." he teased. Bowen's cheeks flamed slightly at what Draco was referring to, when Kara noticed she gave him a curious look, "what is it?" she asked. The copper smirked, "shall I tell her Bowen or would you like to?" he asked playfully. Bowen regained his composer and cleared his throat, "I uh...the other night Draco left to go out on a hunt but when he didn't come back I went looking for him. However when I found him, he was uh..." Bowen couldn't say the words. Kara looked between Draco and Bowen curiously, but after thinking about it for a moment she realized what he was referring to, "oh...I see..." she said as her cheeks flamed slightly. Draco chuckled, "there's no need to be embarrassed about seeing such a thing," he replied casually. The two humans glanced his way to see he hadn't moved his head from his mate's but had turned enough to look at them, "it's no different than coming across any other wildlife in such a situation," Draco added. "I don't see it that way," Kara replied. "Neither do I," Bowen added. Skygazer decided to speak, "Draco's right it is no different in that reguard." "You don't feel like your privacy was invaded?" Kara asked. "We were out in the open and not even trying to hide ourselves so the answer is no but had we been in a cave then the answer would be yes," she replied. "When you put it that way...I suppose that makes sense," Bowen said.

Silence fell around the camp as the sun began to set, "the sky looks so beautiful this evening.." Kara said. "Yes it is," Draco replied with Bowen and Skygazer nodding in agreement. A few moments went by peacefully as the sunset sky gave way to a star-filled night, before anyone spoke, "those stars are really shining brightly tonight," Skygazer said softly. "Yes they are," Draco replied. Kara glanced at the dragons briefly before looking back at the stars, "what's the story behind them?" she asked. A sigh passed through the copper male's lips, "long ago when man was young and a dragon already old, the wisest of our race took pity on man. 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," he motioned with a claw, "and thus was born the dragon's heaven. But when we die not all are admitted to this shining, no we have to earn it and if we don't our spirit disappears as if we never were. And that's why we share our lifeforce with a dying human, so we can reunite man and dragon and ensure our place among our ancient brothers and sisters of the sky. But if we're not careful, our sacrifice can become our sin..." he explained. Silence hung in the air briefly before Kara spoke, "how awful..." she whispered, "so when you..." Draco glanced at her, "it became your sin." The copper male let a rueful sigh pass through his lips, "yes it did..." he murmured. Bowen bit his lip and nervously rung his hands, "Draco..." the dragon male looked in his direction, "I want to apologize...for everything...I never stopped to think or rather, to notice what was right in front of me all along. I was too blind to see it because I didn't want to." A soft smile played on the dragon's lips, "you are forgiven Bowen..." Draco replied. Bowen smiled at the dragon, "you would really forgive my actions?" he asked. "Of course...there's no point in holding onto a grudge," Draco replied. "You're very kind Draco," Kara said. Draco merely nodded, "we should get some sleep..." he said. "Yeah, we should..." Bowen said laying out the bedrolls for both him and Kara. "Doesn't one of us need to stand watch?" Kara asked. Bowen laughed, "what are you talking about Kara?" he motioned towards the pair of dragons, "do you really think that someone is going to be stupid enough to come anywhere near here with these two here?" he asked. Kara glanced at the dragons before looking back at the Knight, "you got a point..." she said laying down on the bedroll and settling down for sleep. "Night Kara," Skygazer said. "Night Sky, Draco..." Kara said with a yawn. "Goodnight lass," Draco replied as the red-head slipped off to sleep. The dragon then turned his golden eyes meet Bowen's gaze, "night Bowen." "Night you two," he replied as he settled down to sleep on his bedroll.

Once the two humans were sleeping peacefully Draco turned his attention to his mate, "you should get some rest my treasure.." he said flicking his tongue against her cheek. "What about you?" she asked. "You know I can go three weeks without sleep, one night won't effect me.." he replied. She let a soft sigh pass through her nostrils, "alright ame li êmae.." she whispered as a yawn pass through her lips. Draco smiled and rested his forehead against hers, "I love you my Sky." She smiled lovingly at him, "I love you too my shining star," she murmured before nuzzling him as he returned it. She then rested her head on his forelegs and cuddled closer to his body, letting it rest comfortably against him with his wing draped over her. Once she was sleeping peacefully at his side, he gazed around at the still forms around him and it made him smile. This was not the turn he ever thought his life would take but he was far from complaining. Despite his sin hanging over him, he was still happy...for the first time in a very long time, he was truly happy. The mate he had lost long ago had been returned to him by some miracle and now he had at least two human friends in his life, he considered himself to be fortunate. He smiled to himself as a yawn passed through his lips and rested his head on his mate's shoulders, to remain on guard through the night.

When the sun rose the next morning it found the copper-scaled dragon still awake and watching over the camp while the others slept. He'd kept on guard through the night, making sure the area was safe for his mate and their friends. He turned his head towards the fire pit and reignited the wood making it burn brightly once more. He remained where he was, as he didn't want to disturb his sleeping mate. His mind was still focused on the prospect of having his heart being whole once more, he glanced down at the scale that covered his heart, to place a claw there, "is this truly possible? Will I have my sin erased as if it never happened at all?" He let his claw fall from his chest as he turned his golden eyes back to the flames, he'd had a dark cloud hanging over his head since he had made the choice to share his heart. He'd held to that regret believing he would never be able to rectify his mistake but now he had hope again that he would be set free from this heavy burden he'd been carrying for so long.

Later that morning Bowen and Kara set out to rally the villagers and explain the plan to them. Bowen promised to come back for Draco and Skygazer that evening, which left them to have a day to themselves. With the Knight and the lass away Draco stood up from where he'd been laying with Skygazer following suit. They ventured to the clearing where the stream ran through and was surrounded by trees. Once in the clearing Draco sprawled out on his belly in the warm sunshine with Skygazer mimicing the action while her mind remained all that had transpired since she and Draco had crossed paths again. She was grateful to the dragon elders as they had allowed them to find each other once more, a smile played on her lips as she watched her mate half-doze in the warm sun.

It was a little after midday when Bowen returned with Kara in toe to come and retrieve the dragons, "they're not where we left them..." Kara said. "I know where they are," Bowen said walking into the trees leaving Kara with his horse. Bowen walked through the bushes, past a couple trees and into the clearing where the stream ran through. The Knight stood there for a moment or two as he watched the pair of dragons sleeping in the sun. He shook his head slightly, "is that all they do is sleep?" he wondered. He took a few steps closer to the pair as he spoke, "Draco...Sky..." he called. He watched the copper's face twitch slightly as he moved his head to rest against Skygazer's before settling again. Bowen let a slightly annoyed sigh pass through his lips, "come on dragon rise and shine..." he called. This time Draco mumbled something in his sleep that the Knight didn't catch before opening one eye to look at him, "you better have a good reason for waking me..." he groggily. "We've come to bring you and Sky to the village..." Bowen said, "now on your feet." Hearing Bowen's tone only irritated the copper dragon, "don't you think it's a little unwise to attempt to order a dragon around?" he questioned, turning his head away. Bowen rolled his eyes, "come on we told the villagers that we were bringing you two there now come on before we lose light." Draco snorted slightly before raising his head, letting a yawn pass through his lips and shaking his head. He watched the Knight walk away from him muttering under his breath, "honestly why did I have to get stuck with the one Knight who acts like a child," he said shaking his head again. He then turned to his mate and lowered his head to flick his tongue against her cheek to rouse her from her slumber, "come my beauty...it's time to go..." he said sweetly, giving her another lick. Her eyes twitched slightly before fluttering open to gaze at her mate, "ame li êmae..." she purred. He smiled and nuzzled her, "Bowen has returned, it's time for the villagers to see us." "Alright.." she said as a yawn pass through her lips. Draco stood up from where he had been laying to stretch his wings and body with Skygazer mimicing the action. They then made their way back towards their camp to find Bowen and Kara waiting for them, "are you ready to meet the people of my village?" she asked upon seeing them. "As we'll ever be..." Skygazer replied. Draco glanced at her briefly before meeting the lass' gaze, "you have spoken to them already?" he asked to which she nodded, "very well...let's go..." he said jumping into the air with Skygazer following behind him. Bowen and Kara got back into the saddle and began riding back towards the village with the dragons keeping close by.

As they flew along Skygazer was feeling a bit nervous about how the villagers would react to them, Draco knew this and thrummed to soothe her. She smiled at him as they continued onward, "I just hope this goes smoothly..." she said. "Me too, the last time they saw me was when Bowen had me fly over and destroy the mill," Draco admitted. Skygazer shook her head at that, "reguardless of who's idea it initially was, let's just hope they don't hold that against you." "They didn't hold it against Bowen apparently..." Draco commeted. "Maybe not but you know how people react to us," Skygazer added. "I know...but perhaps that bridge can be rebuilt and we can all have a clean slate," Draco replied as he powered his wings, giving him a surge of power and propelling him through the air effortlessly with Skygazer mimicing the action. When they got in eyeview of the village they watched the people seem to notice them approaching, "it would seem they were watching for our arrival," Draco said. "Yes it does..." Skygazer replied as they began to make their descent.

Down below Bowen had brought his horse to a stop in front of Kara's hut as the people began to gather outside and turn their eyes to the sky to see the two silhouettes of the dragons approaching. "You better be telling the truth Bowen," Hugh said as he never took his eye off the pair of dragons. "Don't worry Hugh, Bowen is telling the truth..." Kara replied, "I've met them and they would never hurt any of us. It's like we told you...they need our help and we need theirs."

When the dragons landed the people were in awe that two large creatures such as these were in front of them. The pair exchanged looks before anyone spoke, "you made good time..." Bowen said, trying to break the tension. "Yes well...we didn't want to keep the people waiting," Draco replied. The villagers exchanged looks with one another before Hugh stepped forward to speak, "Bowen and Kara told us that you need our help." Draco nodded his head as Skygazer spoke, "we do...and we know you need ours as well." "And you can really stop that tyrant?" Hugh asked. "Yes we can..." Draco replied, "it is vital that we put an end to his evil to ensure all may live peacefully in this land." There were a few whispers amongst the villagers as Kara spoke, "you see...they have the ability to help stop Einon once and for all. You have heard our plan of attack, we draw Einon and his Knights out to where either Draco or Sky can snatch him off his horse. Once his men are dwelt with then they will deal with Einon." "Why do they get to? Why not one of us?" Hugh asked as a few men shouted yeah. "Because they need him alive..." Bowen answered. "Why? What would be the point of that?" Hugh asked. It was then that Draco spoke, "Bowen you did not tell them that part?" he asked. "No I felt it would be better coming from you two," the Knight replied. "I can't say I disagree..." Draco replied. "Why don't you explain to them Sky," Kara said. The dragoness nodded her head and began to reveal what she and Draco planned to do once the tyrant was captured.

By the end of her explanation, many had tears in their eyes and they fully understood what all this meant to the dragons. Draco and Skygazer bedded up in front of the villagers and were silent, allowing the people to absorb what they had told them. After several moments Kara spoke, "you see now..." several villagers glanced at the red-head as she stood next to the dragons with Bowen, "this is why they need our help..." she said. Many exchanged looks with one another before anyone spoke, "we will stand behind you," Hugh said as many men raised the garden tools in their hands while others cheered out. Draco glanced at the Knight and the lass before acknowledging the villagers, "you have our thanks and deepest appreciations."

The rest of the evening was spent preparing for the coming battle and making sure they had every detail of their plan in place come daybreak. While the people readied themselves the pair of dragons talked over what they would do once the tyrant was captured, "are you sure this will work?" Draco asked his mate. She made her bright blue eyes meet his golden ones, "yes I'm sure...everything is in place to work," Skygazer replied. Draco knew what he wanted ask but wasn't sure if he could voice it, however with their links to one another, Skygazer already knew what it was. "You needn't worry, what you will experience will not be painful," she reassured. Draco smiled at his mate before nuzzling her lovingly and flicking his tongue against her cheek. She tucked her muzzle beneath his chin and rested her head against his neck, purring contently with Draco mimicing the action as well.

When night fell Bowen and Kara joined Draco and Skygazer on the hilltop that overlooked the village. They had a fire burning to keep them warm, "have you thought beyond tomorrow?" Draco asked Bowen. The Knight glanced at the dragon for a moment before answering, "it's hard to see that far..." he replied. "Look at the camp... What do you see? What do you hear?" Draco asked. Bowen pondered for an instant, "hope..." he said. "Exactly...down there you have life and songs and courage. You have everything you'll ever need. And now, so do I..." Draco said. "After today there will be more than just that..." Kara and Bowen looked at the dragoness, "we'll be able to live our lives as we once did." The two humans nodded their heads, "where will you two go once everything is over?" Kara asked. There was silence for a few moments before either of them responded, "we'll return to our cave in the mountains, make our home there..." Draco replied. Bowen was silent for a moment or two, looking down at the ground in front of him, "what is it Bowen?" Draco asked. The Knight wouldn't meet the dragon's gaze for an instant, "I imagine when this is all over..the people will want us to take up the crown and take care of them. We were hoping...actually...I was hoping that you would stay and help us." Draco was a bit surprised at the Knight's statement and looked at Skygazer, who was equally surprised, "the decision is yours to make ame li êmae, as long as we are together," Skygazer said. Draco smiled then turned back to Bowen, "we'll need time to think about it," he replied. Bowen merely nodded as he and Kara settled in for the night to get some much needed sleep.

With the two humans asleep, it gave the dragon couple time to themselves to talk. Draco was silently staring into the flames of the campfire as he mulled over the Knight's words in his head. Skygazer knew this and nuzzled against his neck, purring softly to him. He smiled and returned the gesture, "it's just that...I never thought that humans would want to share their world with our kind again.." he closed his eyes briefly, "it makes me remember the days of Sorchagealdùn where I shared the crown with the Celtic King and helped to take care of the people." Skygazer nodded her head to let her mate know she had heard him, "I know ame li êmae...I have watched what you were able to do back then," she said with a smile, "I am proud of you for what you were able to accomplish there." Draco smiled, "I just wish you had been at my side then..." he replied flicking his tongue against her cheek. "As do I ame li êmae..." she said resting her head against his neck. Draco let a sigh pass through his nostrils as he still weighed on the words of the Knight, "I understand why he asked us but I am unsure if we should stay." "It is your decision to make my Draco, you know I will always stand with you...no matter what," Skygazer said. Draco rested his muzzle against hers, "I know and thank you ame li êmae..." he purred. It was then that a yawn passed through Skygazer's lips, "we should get some sleep..." Draco whispered. "Alright..." Skygazer nuzzled Draco so lovingly, "goodnight my love, I love you." Draco returned the nuzzle, "goodnight ame li êmae, I love you too..." he purred pressing his lips to hers. After returning the kiss Skygazer lay her head down on Draco's forelegs and easily slipped off to sleep. Draco remained awake for a moment or two before resting his head on Skygazer's neck, allowing sleep to come to him.

When the sun rose the next morning it found the dragons already awake and watching over the village as the people were up on their feet and preparing for the coming battle. Bowen and Kara were readying themselves, making sure everything was in place. Draco and Skygazer knew what part they would play in the battle and were ready to put an end to the tyrant and his evil ways. Skygazer knew how much her mate wanted this to be done and over with so he could have his heart completely restored and his sin erased once and for all. She nuzzled him tenderly as he returned it before they went to meet up with Bowen and Kara. Bowen and Kara stood before the group of villagers who were ready to put an end to the tyrant and when the pair of dragons were standing before them, everyone bowed their heads respectfully. It was then that Kara spoke, "today we put an end to the tyrant's evil ways...no longer will any of us suffer under his rule." The lass' words were met with raised voices as the Knight spoke, "we've come a long way to get to this point...are you ready?" he asked. The villagers raised their voices, "you all know what to do. Now prepare yourselves and let's move out..." Bowen said raising his sword in the air. The villagers cheered and grabbed their weapons before they began to make their way out onto the battlefield. Draco and Skygazer took to the air to survey from above, waiting for Bowen's signal.

At the castle the tyrant was standing up on the high wall, "he dares defy me at my own gates look at him!" he shouted. Brok came to stand at his side, "shall I ready the men my King?" he asked. "Yes and tell the dragonslayers to be ready as well..." Einon added as he left to prepare himself.

The battle began rather quickly once the tyrant had seen the villagers approach with the Knight leading them. When they came to clash with the King's Knights, Bowen made a bee-line towards Einon in order to lead him out into the open so the dragons could play their part.

Up above Draco saw this, "get ready...watch for Bowen's signal..." he said with Skygazer nodding her head. The pair flew lower and followed the Knight until they saw the signal, that being Bowen raising the new shield, catching the sunlight and making it reflect off Draco's image. "There it is..." Skygazer said. "Let's go..." Draco said diving downward aiming for Einon. When he was low enough he grabbed hold of the tyrant King with Skygazer taking out a couple of his Knights in the process. Einon was terrified of being in the dragon's clutches, "now you are mine..." Draco growled snapping his jaws in front of Einon's face. They made their way towards the holding cell that had been created to hold the tyrant while they dispersed the Knights and Brok. Hugh was in charge of guarding Einon, while the rest of the villagers faught against the Knights. For the next couple of hours the battle raged until the Knights finally yielded to the villagers, ending the battle. They were victorious now all that remained was dealing with Einon which fell to Skygazer and Draco. Bowen led the group towards the castle and upon seeing Einon tied up, the dragonslayers and the rest of his men made no move to resist. When Draco and Skygazer landed they turned their gazes to the dragonslayers, who became very nervous being under their intimidating gaze. "You would be wise not to make any sudden movements or it will be your last," Skygazer threatened. The men were too scared to do anything else but listen to the dragoness' words and stood quietly where they were.

Hugh and Bowen brought Einon over to the wall of the courtyard and chained him there, "so what now? Will you take turns beating me into submission or will those two make a meal of me?" he taunted. Bowen raised his hand and smacked it across the tyrant's face, "shut up! You shut your mouth, it is not me you should be worried about..." Bowen said, "it is them..." he motioned towards the dragons. Einon scoffed at his old mentor's words but said nothing as the pair approached, "I've waited twelve years for this day. You betrayed these people, you betrayed your mother and you betrayed me..." Draco got right in Einon's face, "you have forgotten your words to me when I made the mistake of saving your life at the request of your mother. Now the day has come to undo that mistake," Draco growled. Again Einon scoffed, "and how do you plan to do that?" he sneered, "you kill me you will die as well." It was then that Skygazer lunged at the incapacitated King, "that's where you are wrong..." she growled. Einon gave the dragoness a curious look, "you seem very familiar somehow..." he was silent for a moment, "oh now I remember...you're the one father told me about." Draco's eyes narrowed as Einon continued, "yes...you are the dragoness that was slain at my father's hand. He and the slayers he had with him spoke of you often as you were the first pregnant dragon they had ever brought down," he said with a laugh.

The shocked looks on the faces of the villagers and Bowen were evident but what was more evident, was the rage that was now in Draco's eyes. He roared and bared his fangs in a threatening manner, slightly startling the people around them, "I should put an end to you right here," he growled. Again Einon scoffed, "then why don't you?" he questioned. "Because we need you alive..." Skygazer growled angrily. Draco then turned to the people, "I would suggest you all back up a bit so we have room for what we're about to do." The people did as Draco asked of them and stayed well away from the pair to witness what was about to happen.

Skygazer then started to channel her magic as her eyes began to glow, speaking an incantation that would sever the link between her mate and Einon so Draco wouldn't feel anything that was about to happen. Draco remained silent as he watched her closely, "an incantation to sever the link..." he said to himself. Skygazer had heard his thoughts but remained focused on her task, once the link had been severed her eyes and claws began glow brighter, along with Einon's chest. The next part of the incantation was meant to draw the half of Draco's heart from the tyrant's chest in order to purify it. At feeling this, Einon began to writhe in agony as he felt his heart being torn apart from inside, "what...what's happening...?" he questioned. Draco narrowed his eyes as he spoke, "you are meant to suffer for the evil you have caused which corrupted the heart that was given." Skygazer continued to speak the incantation and as she reached the final bit of it, Einon's chest seem to burst open making him scream and cry out in blinding agony.

The villagers were stunned to witness such an act but never made a move to look away, "serves him right..." was Kara's only thought. Bowen was speechless at what he was seeing in front of him, "they aren't playing around..." he glanced at Einon briefly, "perhaps your mother can rest in peace now and I hope she's seeing this from wherever she is now." He knew Einon had killed Aislinn and it had angered the Knight deeply as he was very close with her, he found some satisfaction in the fact that Einon was now suffering at the hands of the dragon's magic.

With the second part of the incantation finished the people watched as the half that was Draco's heart came bursting from the King's chest. With one final scream he went limp, the chains, the only thing holding him up. The light then changed color slightly as she began to purify Draco's heart before completing the final part. A beautiful, bright, white light began to circle around the half-heart, purifying the corruption that Einon had put into it. Draco was amazed at what he was witnessing and sat on his hanches knowing what the last part would be. The white light completely encircled the half-heart, causing the light to become blinding. Many of the villagers and even Draco shielded their eyes from the light until it faded, "it's been purified," Skygazer said turning her head towards her mate. He nodded his head then lifted the scale that covered his remaining heart, "are you ready?" she asked. He merely nodded as she began to speak the last incantation, all watched as the half-heart floated towards the copper dragon and entered his chest as it began to glow. Draco's eyes widened slightly as his chest burned and throbbed but did his best to remain still until the incantation was finished, "not much longer ame li êmae..." Skygazer whispered through their bond. Draco merely nodded and panted as a way to deal with the pain he was feeling. The light became a beautiful shade of golden as Draco's chest pulsated with the same light as Skygazer spoke the last part of the incantation. The light then became blinding before fading away. Once it was over Draco was left panting and shaking slightly before collapsing to the ground, "Draco!" Bowen called out. Skygazer then raised her claw, "stay there Bowen..." she said. He looked at her with concern written over his face, "what happened?" he asked. "There's no need to worry...it's alright," she turned her eyes to her mate, "he'll be out for a couple hours while his body becomes accustom to having his heart being whole again. He'll be alright..." she reassured.

Bowen let a sigh pass through his lips as he turned his attention to the remaining Knights and dragonslayers, "what do you choose to do?" he questioned. The men looked at one another before turning back to Bowen, "if you will allow us to...we wish to serve you..." said one Knight as he took a knee before him along with the others. Shock was written all over Bowen's face as was Kara's and the villagers. After a moment or two of silence Bowen found his words, "on one condition..." he stated. "Name it.." said the Knight raising his eyes to Bowen. "You will help to rebuild the village and see to it that all in this Kingdom are treated fairly. You all will also follow the teachings of the dragons and live by the Old Code," Bowen said. The man before Bowen bowed his head again, "you have our word my Lord..." he said. "Very good..." Bowen stated, "now rise." The group of men stood before the Knight of the Old Code, before looking at the limp body of the dead tyrant, "take this piece of trash out and burn it," the man. "Yes sir," said the group. The dragonslayer leader then approached Bowen, "what will you have us do?" he asked. "You will remain here and see to it that the dragons are well looked after," Bowen stated sternly. The head slayer nodded his head, "yes sir Knight..." he said then turned to the others, "we are slayers no more, we are to guard them while they rest." The others nodded their heads and returned to the post they had been standing at previously, promising to dispose of the weapons they once used on the dragons and swore they would never harm another dragon again.

With that taken care of Bowen turned to the villagers, "it's time we all get some rest, there will be plenty of work in the days to come." Many nodded their heads and left to return to the village to rest for now. Kara remained at his side, "so what do we do now?" she asked. "For now we will get some rest and then we'll figure out what our next chapter is," Bowen turned his eyes to the copper dragon with the biege dragoness bedded up at his side, "it will give time for Draco to recover from having his heart restored." Skygazer turned her eyes to Bowen and Kara, "I will let you know when he wakes up," she said. Bowen nodded his head as he and Kara walked from the courtyard to allow the dragons to rest.

Over the next couple hours Skygazer remained at her mate's side while he slept, with their strong bonds she was able to monitor him closely. She was pleased to see how well the ex-dragonslayers had listened to Bowen, making sure both had water and even went so far as to bring a couple of deer back so they would have something to eat as well.

It was about midday when Draco began to awaken, when the copper dragon began to slowly open his eyes he felt very much groggy as a hiss passed through his lips. "My chest...it hurts..." he said, his words still very much slurred from sleep. "Easy my love..." Skygazer soothed. His eyes slowly fluttered open, his vision was blurry at first but as it cleared he looked upon the beautiful face of his mate, "my Sky..." he whispered. She gave him a soft smile, "I'm here ame li êmae...I'm here..." she purred sweetly. Draco offered a weak smile as he slowly raised his head off the ground, "here drink some water..." she suggested kindly, nudging the bucket over to her mate. He smiled and drank his fill from the bucket that had been left for him, he then noticed the deer. "Those men brought us deer while you were sleeping," Skygazer explained. He merely nodded then turned his gaze to them, "what made them change?" he asked curiously. Skygazer smiled as she answered, "Bowen..." Draco looked at her with eyes slightly widened, "he turned them and Einon's Knights to our side and he made them pledge to live by the Old Code and treat all who live in this Kingdom fairly." Draco nodded his head to let her know he had heard her, "as for them," she glanced in the ex-slayers direction, "Bowen told them to look after us while we rested here and you recovered from having your heart restored." Draco was silent for a moment or two as he absorbed everything Skygazer told him before responding, "that pleases me..." he said turning to the deer laying in front of him. "You should eat something to restore your strength," Skygazer suggested. He didn't need much encouragement and eagerly tore into the deer that had been provided. Skygazer had already eaten hers while she watched over Draco and merely remained there with him while he ate his. When he had devoured the deer he relaxed against the cool stone of the courtyard, purring contently. It made Skygazer happy to see her mate so content and satisfied,"it is good that he is doing well...I was a bit worried about him after the spell had been completed but seeing him so comfortable and content makes me feel better." She lowered her head and licked his cheek before nuzzling him sweetly. Of course Draco had heard his mate's thoughts but didn't respond as he too had felt a bit of the same when the spell had been completed. With his heart fully restored he knew he was free of the mistake he had made years ago and it had been erased as if it never happened at all.

Sometime later Bowen came into the courtyard to check on Draco only to find the pair of dragons gone. He turned to ex-slayers, "where did they go?" he questioned. "They went for a flight, didn't say when they would be back," the man said. "Hmn..." was Bowen's only response, "I guess that means that Draco is alright..." he said turning his eyes to the sky for a moment. Seeing no trace of them he walked away from the courtyard and back to where Kara and the rest of the villagers were.

It was true that they went on a flight but they also sought seclusion. After taking a flight they found themselves at a secluded lagoon some distance away from the village. The pair had stumbled upon a small lagoon fully enclosed by trees and vines, just the right size for the two to relax comfortably without being restricted. The lagoon had a small waterfall and behind it was a cavern with many small jewels embedded in it's walls. They had bathed in the lagoon then slipped behind the waterfall to become entangled and enjoy an intimate encounter. Skygazer was teasing Draco, rubbing her slender body down his, trailing her tail beneath his chin, along his chest and stomach before trailing it over his sensitive sheath. Draco thummed deep in his chest as he followed closely behind her when she moved to present herself to him. Her eyes were filled with desire and body hungered for her mate, Draco knew this and he felt as she did and he would never deny her. He came up behind her and lowered his head, trailing his tongue of her sensitive opening. Her scent was sweet and tantilizing, it filled his senses and made his body come alive and become filled with arousal and desire to claim his mate again. Skygazer watched Draco as he stood onto his hind legs, place his hands onto her hips and lift himself up onto her back, leaving one foot on the ground for balance. She arched her back slightly to rub it against his underbelly, trailing her tail against his sheath before coiling it around his tail. Draco noticed how fiesty she was being this time but he didn't question it, he knew from her scent what was driving her and he was following his instincts as well. With her consistant teasing, his length emerged from it's sheath until it was completely outside his body with two large mounds at it's base. Both were filled with copious amounts of his seed that were waiting to be sent into the waiting womb of the dragoness. The tumescent length easily slipped into the moist slit of his mate's intimate cavern, pushing it in until she could feel the two heavy mounds at it's base against her opening. She panted slightly at feeling him within her walls again and Draco thummed and groaned feeling how tight she was around him. They remained still for a moment before Draco began to move, thrusting into her with smooth, well-aimed movements. Skygazer dug her claws into the soft, sandy dirt beneath her as her body began to heat up with every thrust Draco made into her. Being larger than her Draco was able to bring his head down next to hers and nuzzle against her cheek, licking her face and purring into her ear as he moved. Their rhythm was sensual and passionate, their bonds intensifying this encounter as each felt the others arousal and the sensation they were creating. Skygazer was panting slightly with Draco thumming, purring and groaning as he delved into her crevice with every thrust. "Draco...*pant...pant*..." she panted. He lowered his head again, trailing his tongue along her jaw and neck, "my Sky..." he purred huskily, "mine..." She shivered in delight when his voice filled her ears with the deep, sultry tone of her mate. The heat and passion built between them so hot that it threatened to burn them both. Skygazer then felt Draco's movements become a bit more frantic as his length seemed to swell inside her and she knew he was close to his release. She wasn't far off either, her body shivered and her heart was racing in her chest, "...*pant*...*pant*...Draco..." she panted out. He felt his length swell further as blood flushed to the area while the two mounds at it's base tightened as they readied to release their load. His response to her was a deep thrum as he completely buried his dragon girth into her, raised his wings and gritted his teeth, with a deep groan-like growl Draco released his hot seed into Skygazer's saturated crevice. She clenched tightly around him in order to hold him where he was until he finished releasing his load into her. Draco lowered his head and nuzzled Skygazer tenderly and she returned the gesture as they both panted heavily for their breath. Draco's limbs trembled and he was struggling a bit as he tried not to fall over. They were both completely spent from the passion-fueled exertions and remained still until they could move more confidently.

Once their breathing returned to normal Draco gave Skygazer one more languid thrust and she clenched around him in response. A soft chuckle rattled out of the male's throat as he carefully withdrew his length from his mate and stepped down until he was once more standing on the sandy cave floor. As Skygazer stood up she saw Draco's length slip back into it's sheath to remain hidden within his body. She came over to nuzzle him lovingly beneath the chin, purring contently and smiling. Draco too felt such happiness fill his chest as well as love for Skygazer as he returned the tender gesture.

It was around sunset when the pair returned to the outskirts of the village only be greeted by a slightly aggitated Knight, "where the hell have you two been?" he questioned. Draco rolled his eyes slightly, "do you really need to know where we are every minute?" he teased. Bowen bit his lip, "well...no...but you coulda at least said something before just disappearing." The copper dragon merely shook his head at the Knight while Skygazer just giggled, "you two act just like brothers..." she said. Kara agreed with the dragoness, "yes they do..." she said joining in on the laughter.

The villagers held a celebration in the village with singing and dancing, as well as a feast. During the feasting Hugh stood and spoke, saying that he and the other villagers were truly grateful to Bowen's efforts to help put an end to the tyrant once and for all. He also said that the people wish for Bowen and Kara to become the new Monarchs of the Kingdom and take up the crown. Both Bowen and Kara were surprised upon hearing this but after a bit of encouragement from Draco and Skygazer both agreed. They celebrated long into the night before settling in for the night to get some well earned rest. Draco and Skygazer bedded up just outside the village so they could rest comfortably. When the sun would rise in the morning, the pair would leave and return to the cave in the mountains where Draco had first encountered Bowen all those years ago.

It was just before daybreak and Draco was already awake and reflecting on everything that had happened to him over the past few weeks. He was truly grateful to Bowen, Kara and especially his loving mate who had done the most important thing for him, she had restored his heart to him and he no longer had his mistake hanging over him like a dark cloud. The darkness was gone forever and both he and Skygazer were free to live their lives as they saw fit but they would never forget about their friends.

A little later that morning the pair were ready to leave, "we hope you two will come back and see us," Bowen said. "We will Bowen," Skygazer said. Kara then approached, "we don't know how to thank you for everything you've done for us.." she said. "You are our friends but more than that you are our family as well and we will always look out for you," Draco replied. "We won't forget you," Bowen said. "We won't forget you either Bowen, Kara..." Skygazer replied. After making their goodbyes the two dragons took to the air with the villagers cheering and waving them off until they were out of sight.

Now out and away from the village the dragons flew through the sky effortlessly with an air of playfulness. Draco, especially after having his heart restored, he felt lighter and free...he had dreamed of having his heart restored and now, he finally did. Skygazer noticed the playfulness her mate was feeling and she watched him barrel roll and loop through the air as though he were a youngling, she laughed joyfully and joined in on the fun. The pair flew in a playful pattern similar to the one they flew in during their bonding flight so long ago, ending the pattern with them circling around one another before smoothing themselves out again. Though panting slightly, they were both happy as they headed to the cave in the mountains.

The flight to the cave took no time for the dragons to complete and were soon coming into land at the entrance. The pair stood there for a moment or two as memories of his past came back to him briefly. Skygazer knew and moved to nuzzle him beneath the chin, he returned the gesture and offered his mate a smile, "come..." he whispered as he entered the cave with her following behind him.

When they entered the steam filled their senses as they moved through the chamber where Draco's bedding was. Upon stepping into it the copper male let a sigh pass through his lips making Skygazer look at him, "you know..." he glanced at her, "we don't have to stay in this cave. We could go back to the waterfall or find somewhere else to call home." He remained silent as he knew she was trying to alleviate his unsettled mind, "I know you're right ame li êmae..." he let another sigh pass his lips, "it might be a good idea to find another cave but for now, we should remain close by should Bowen and Kara need us," Draco replied. Skygazer nodded her head, "alright dearest..." she then took her human form, much to the surprise of her mate, "I think I'll soak in the hotsprings...if you would like to join me," she said giving him a sultry look. A playful smirk played on his lips, "you know I would never deny you ame li êmae.." he replied. Skygazer watched as Draco took his human form.

Upon seeing his human form her mouth hung open slightly at the sight before her. Even as a man, Draco still resembled his dragon self better than she could've imagined. He had a very strong jawline and a cleft chin sprinkled with short stubble, a straight nose, his eyes were still gold and hooded. Even though his hair was light brown with a few silver strands here and there, his eyebrows were pitch black, thick and ever so slightly angled, giving him a regal look that Skygazer found distractingly alluring. The young woman stepped closer and her gaze shyly shifted lower. She felt a little flustered by the fact that Draco was, even now, at least a foot taller. A black cloak was splayed over his wide shoulders and the laces of his shirt were not tied up, revealing his clavicle and a portion of his hair-dusted, strong chest. The scar on Draco's heart was peeking from under the fabric and an urge to touch it overcame Skygazer. She tried to shake it off and accidentally, her gaze slid below Draco's waistline. Quickly, Skygazer averted her eyes and cleared her throat, hoping that the heat in her cheeks would not manifest in a blush. "How do I look?" asked Draco, exploring his new body with a skeptical eye. "It's a little strange, especially the dark clothes. I was expecting the color to match my scales, not that I'm complaining..." he stated. "It's not strange at all," Skygazer took a small step towards him, "in fact...you look, very handsome..." she said giving him a soft smile. Draco caressed her cheek gently before taking her hand in his and walking towards the hotsprings.

When they reached the chamber Draco removed his cloak and placed it on a nearby rock before stripping himself from his clothes with Skygazer doing the same thing. Now bare before one another Draco was the first to slip into the soothing hot water, completely dunking himself in the water. When he resurfaced Skygazer was sitting at the edge of the pool with her feet in the water and smiling at him. He returned the smile as he moved over towards her, "enjoying the view ame li êmae?" he asked with a knowing smile. She laughed as a light blush appeared on her cheeks, "I always do with you my love.." she purred.A playful smirk appeared on the dragon-man's lips as he captured her lips with his and wrapped his arms around her slender form. Draco then lifted her up into his arms, stepped away from the edge of the pool and set her down in front of him in the water. Her hands trailed up his muscular arms to rest on his shoulders, tangling her fingers in his shoulder-length hair as she returned the kiss. When they let go of the kiss Skygazer spoke, "I never knew you could take a human form..." she said. "I was unable to after sharing my heart but now that it is restored, I am able to do so," Draco replied caressing her cheek with his calloused hand. She smiled at him before he captured her lips again, licking at her bottom lip, asking to be let in. Skygazer opened up to him and tangled her tongue with his, tasting and exploring his mouth in a way she had been unable to before. Draco too was exploring his mate's mouth, feeling her tongue wrestle with his for dominance and tasting her sweetness on his tongue. Skygazer found herself getting lost in this moment with Draco, being now in a human form she delighted in the way he felt against her. The way he caressed her every curve, how their bodies seem to fit together, touching and caressing, it was enough to send her over the edge. With their soul and blood bond, Draco felt the same thing she did, his body felt hot and desire filled his mind and clouded his senses, "she's intoxicating..." he said to himself as he began to trail kisses down her chest. Skygazer tilted her head to the side to give Draco more access, her body began to tingle at feeling his tongue trailing against her skin, "he's driving me wild..." she panted. When Draco came back up to capture her lips again, he lifted her up and brought her over to a spot where the rock had been washed out long ago, resting her back gently against it. With his arms holding her up, she wrapped her legs around his muscular waist and in doing so, felt his already erect member brushing against her backside. A small gasp escaped her lips at the sensation the brief contact created, a soft chuckle came from the dragon-man as he slowly lowered her down onto it. When she felt the head of it against her sensitive entrance she gasped excitedly as she pressed herself against his girth, allowing it to enter her. With just the head of it inside, a soft gasp escaped her lips as more of his length entered her. Draco couldn't suppress an aroused-filled groan feeling her warmth around his member, "she feels amazing..." was his only thought as he continued to lower her until he was completely buried inside her tight, saturated walls. The pair remained motionless for a few moments before their gazes met again and they were on each others mouth once more, kissing each other hungrily. Between their kisses, they were panting at the amount of passion they were feeling, they were intoxicated on one another. Skygazer held to Draco's shoulders in order to keep steady while one of his arms remained around her waist while the other remained beneath her thigh with his hand resting on her backside. Each upward thrust conveyed how much Draco loved Skygazer and their bond told her the same. Their current entanglement was the purest form of love between two hearts that loved as the pair of dragons did. Their panting, moans and murmures of love were the only sounds that could be heard echoing in the hotspring chamber. With three passion and desired-fueled thrusts, Draco came deep within Skygazer's tight, soaking walls with her following right behind him with his name on her lips, "*pant pant*...Draco..." "My..my Sky..." came his nearly breathless response. His legs were shaking and he was having trouble holding himself up, Skygazer's legs remained wrapped around the dragon-man's waist with her arms around his shoulders. Her head rested on his chest, listening to the sound of his racing heart as he peppered her face and neck with soft kisses and nuzzling his nose into her hair.

Once he was able to move again, Draco carefully lifted Skygazer up, removing his length from her before lifting her into his arms and bringing her over to sit on a submerged rock at the edge of the hotspring pool. She was sitting in his lap while his arms rested around her slender waist, holding her close, allowing her to rest her head on his scarred chest. She pressed a few kisses there which elicited a soft thrum from deep within Draco's chest before pressing a kiss onto her forehead.

They were very much content, they had found each other after being apart for so long, he had restored his mate's memories and true form to her. She in turn, purified and restored Draco's heart to him, making his mistake disappear as if it never happened at all. They had human friends and best of all, they were able to live their lives peacefully, without a threat of dragonslayers coming after them. They had everything they ever wanted and more, they had each other, they had a home and they had a family.