Welcome readers, to the world of Areth, created by Mark Robson.

I do not own any characters from the first four books, only the characters and dragons created by myself.

Set three years after the fourth book ends.

"Human speak" 'Human thoughts' "Mind speak between Dragon and Rider"

Dragon Orb

Arising Bonds

1

Reunited

Three season rotations had passed since the success of the Great Quest. The world of Areth was at peace and looked set to stay that way. The Night Dragon Enclave had turned its act right around, helping the people of Isaa. The remaining three Dragonriders and their Dragons hadn't seen each other since parting. All of them were doing well. Elian and Ra were travelling the world of Areth, Kira and Fang were building relations within the Dusk Dragon Enclave. And Pell. The strong, naïve rider of Whispering Shadow. He was on his way to becoming leader of the Night Dragon Enclave with the help of Korath and Midnight Warrior. Over the three season rotations he'd spent with the dark dragons, he missed the cornflower blue scales of Firestorm, the brave and noble Day Dragon who had been destined to have a coward for a rider. But just like Elian had told Pell, Nolita was brave when she needed to be. The girl had been forced to fly solo after the fiasco with the Night Dragons. Strangely enough, Pell had felt proud when he saw her again at the Day Dragon Enclave, despite the anger she displayed upon laying eyes on him. He still felt the sting of her hand meeting his cheek on occasion.

A gentle flowing breeze glided over Nightcall Hollow towards the west of Isaa. It was especially unwelcome at a small farm where a family lived and worked. Up in the sky above the quiet little farm was a Night Dragon, sailing effortlessly on the few residing thermals. A woman was outside tending to some sheep when she looked up and saw the beast. From its height she could scant tell if it had a rider. The woman ran inside, her long brown hair thrashing around behind her. Despite all the good things Night Dragons and their riders had done for the people of Isaa, they were still feared the most of the four true Dragon breeds. The Night Dragon did indeed have a rider, no more than nineteen season rotations old with shoulder length blonde hair tied into a ponytail and piercing blue eyes. He was devilishly handsome with a strong chin, cleanly shaven. His broad figure consisted of a classic v-shape torso, ripped with muscle all over from arm to leg. The rider was none other than Pell, older and more mature. "Easy Shadow. We've already given someone a scare. Let's not make it worse. I'm not entirely sure if I'll be welcome." Pell's mental voice held uncertainty to match his words. This was a state of mind Shadow had little experience with since Pell had rarely ever been uncertain about anything. "Don't worry Pell." Shadow purred, her sultry tones easing the worry of her rider. "I'll protect you. The man of the house is arming himself. Are you sure this is your family?" Now Shadow was the unsure one. "Perfectly sure." Pell spoke aloud, readying himself for landing.

Shadow was silent as ever on her approach, back winging to a faint hover before kissing the ground with her polished talons. Pell had made sure that Shadow looked her best. He'd spent all morning scrubbing and filing her scales, claws and horns. Even Shadow's teeth were clean, shining pearly white when the light touched them. The people inside the house were frightened beyond belief, watching in fear as Shadow settled her body down on the soft grass gently so not to disturb Pell. Shadow folded her wings carefully to reveal the rider in the saddle. Pell slid down Shadow's side slowly, landing with a faint thud. He then proceeded to take something out of the saddlebag. It was crudely wrapped but Pell had never been good at wrapping items. Upon seeing a rider dismounting the gleaming Night Dragon, the man stepped outside with caution. His short blonde hair was chopped to rest just below the ears, eyes a venomous blue, just like Pell's. He was also in possession of a strong, muscular physique. "Morven, make sure Imogen is safe. Night Dragons only show up if they want something." "Be careful Orthos. We'd starve if you were killed." Morven's apple green eyes glistened with worry and fear, setting her hands upon her husbands' shoulder. Orthos kissed Morven softly and gave her hands a comforting squeeze. It served as suitable persuasion as Morven went further into the house. Turning back to face the Dragon, Orthos got a better look at her rider, noticing the uncanny resemblance the strong teen had to him. 'Is the Maker playing some kind of cruel trick on me? That rider. He…he looks just like Pell. But my son would never come back. Not after the cruel words his brother and I spoke to him.'

Even from the distance he stood at, Pell could see the bewilderment on Orthos's face. "He's fighting with himself, Pell. From his surface thoughts, this man is debating whether you are nothing but a mirage put to him by the Maker." Pell pulled a small smirk at the thought of his father being a gibbering wreck upon his coming home. "Thank you Shadow. Guess I'd better not disappoint him then. He'll likely call mother once he's certain it's me." Pell's prediction happened sooner than expected. Orthos turned his head, making sure to spare an eye to watch Pell's every move and called for his wife. Morven could not believe her eyes when she saw the strong figure striding casually toward the house. Tears began to pour down Morven's cheeks as Pell got closer, allowing her a better, clearer view of him. Orthos slipped an arm around Morven's shoulders to keep her from running to Pell, fearing Shadow might attack. Soon Pell stood face to face with his parents, a small smile gracing his charming features. Morven reached out a hand to touch Pell's cheek, unable to believe he was really there. To reassure her, Pell placed his larger, coarse skinned hand onto hers, rubbing it with his thumb. Morven could hold herself back no longer, snapping her arms around Pell's waist, giving him no time to react. "It really is you! My little boy has finally come home. We were so worried about you Pell." Said young man returned the embrace, settling his chin on Morven's shoulder. "I'm alright mom. But I haven't come to stay. Really I wish I could but the Enclave needs me. The Night Dragons are on the path to enlightenment. I'll explain it better inside."

Morven took a few minutes to get a good look at Pell. Only the difference in height distinguished him from his father. Orthos himself was happy to see Pell home after five season rotations. Pell's attention was soon ensnared by a girl standing in the back doorway. She looked just like Morven from head to toe. Her baggy shawl hid ample sized breasts from view. A look of shock was plastered on her face and Pell couldn't say he blamed her. Orthos moved over to the girl and held her close. "Come now Imogen, you look like a ghost just walked through the door." "Papa, is it really? Am I truly seeing him?" "Yes Imogen. Go and give him a proper welcome don't be shy." Imogen didn't hesitate for a second, launching herself into Pell's open arms. Whilst holding his little sister, Pell got a rough idea of how big her chest really was. "Pell!" "You've grown, Imogen. But I can see just by looking into your eyes that the shy little girl who cowered behind me is still there. The one I truly missed." Pell felt Shadow snorting in his mind, pulling a sly little smirk. "Somebody disagrees with me." Imogen stepped back, her eyes filling with fear. Pell soon realised he shouldn't have spoken about Shadow in her presence. It was too late now though. "Imogen it's alright…" "It's here isn't it? The beast that took you from us?" Pell hoped Shadow didn't take Imogen's words the wrong way. "Fear not Pell. I'm used to being called such names. Perhaps your family would benefit from meeting me personally. I'll be gentle, I promise." "If you think it'll help Imogen see you differently." Pell came out of the mental transaction to hear Morven consoling Imogen.

Orthos seemed to have calmed down with a Night Dragon lying in the fields. Even the animals were at peace with Shadow's presence. "Imogen, being a Dragonrider is a great honour. Regardless of its species. I'm sure Pell's Dragon is very nice. Isn't that right dear?" "Of course. Shadow wouldn't hurt a fly unless it posed a threat to my safety. Though she is quite nervous. Has been since I told her I wanted to come home for a visit. I almost forgot. This is for you mom." Morven took the offered package, opening it straight away. In her hands was a long box. The lightweight maple wood case held within it a beautiful necklace made of gold, fitted with the finest cut rubies and citrine gems a man could buy. "Pell…it's so beautiful. I can't accept this." "Mom, it's okay. I had it made especially for you. Think of it not just as a birthday present, but also my apology for not coming home sooner." "But your brother…" Pell balled his fists, eyebrows furrowing into a frown. "To hell what Adaro thinks. You're my mother and I want what's best for you. Where is he anyway?" "Likely on his way back from the nearest town. Since no traders come this way, Adaro takes our produce into town and sells them for us. Your father and I have to stay and work the farm. Imogen does what she can to look after us. We're not getting any younger. It'll anger your brother to learn you won't be staying." Pell heaved a sigh, not looking forward to facing his older brother. He was the reason Pell had stayed away for so long. Shadow sensed Pell's varying emotions, soothing him as best she could. "Well I don't care what he thinks. You're my family and nothing will change that."

Pell spent hours catching up with his family over some mulled wine. He also helped about the farm, asking for Shadow's assistance. She gladly obliged, hefting heavy logs and carrying baskets of produce varying from eggs to animal pelts. Imogen spent her time working in the stable, grooming the Shire horses that oft pulled the plough in place of the oxen. Shadow had kept a curious eye on Imogen. It had been a while since she'd seen such a pretty girl. But none of the previous ones were hiding giant orbs of flesh under shawls. This phenomenon was new to Shadow and so she snuck up on Imogen, keeping her large orange eyes looking gentle. Imogen was none the wiser to Shadow's presence, failing to notice the large black head resting on the floor beside her. That was until the bay coloured Shire freaked out. "Whoa easy boy! Whaaa!" Upon hearing Imogen screaming, Pell ran towards the stable with all his speed. He couldn't see anything wrong with the situation. Shadow wasn't doing anything wrong. But Pell did notice Shadow had an eye on Imogen's chest region. "What's wrong Imogen? Shadow probably just wanted to make sure you're alright. Shadow? Why are you staring at Imogen like that?" "Pell, what are those? I've never seen a person with them before."Shadow indicated towards the area of her interest and Pell couldn't help but blush a little. "Shadow are you being serious? All the girls we've met have breasts." "Breasts? What purpose do they serve?" Pell wasn't entirely sure he wanted to answer, turning Shadow's large head to face him directly. "Shadow, that's not something us guys talk about to other girls. Why do you want to know?" "I'm curious. Are they…soft?"

Now Pell was really freaking out. Shadow was acting out of character and it scared him. "Maybe you should just go and lie down Shadow." He said aloud for Imogen's benefit. "Go and soak up the sun. We'll be off soon." Imogen released the breath she'd been holding, her eyes showing the clear relief. "Sorry about that Imogen. Shadow meant no harm. She just wants to know more about you as a person." "It's just…she looks so scary." "You're not the only person I know who thinks that." "Why was she looking at my…my chest?" "I dunno. Maybe Shadow was actually looking at your face from a different angle. She's weird like that sometimes." Pell's lie seemed to calm Imogen more. He too felt relief until Shadow intruded his tranquil state of mind. "Someone is coming Pell. And their surface thoughts are grim. I think it could be your brother." "Shadow you need to hide. Adaro takes very badly to Night Dragons. I can't risk you getting hurt." "But what if he turns on you? From what I've heard, Adaro sees you as a traitor. A black sheep." "Adaro can think what he wants. Just please do not interfere if he starts a fight." "I'll obey on the condition that should your brother draw a blade I 'WILL' take action. Fear not, I shall only back him off. Attacking a human directly is not in my nature." Pell's mind was put at ease by the reassuring tone of Shadow's voice. A wagon became visible in the distance being pulled by two strong, black Shire horses. Shadow took off gently and found shelter behind a space of trees, wanting to stay close to hear Pell if he called her. Imogen gripped Pell's arm tightly, knowing a fight was bound to break out.

As the wagon got closer, Pell identified the person steering it. His blood boiled beyond a healthy temperature as he stared at the green eyed blonde man holding the reins. A closer look revealed the roots of his hair were brown and one of his eyes was actually blue. Pell stood firm as the driver dismounted from the wagon, a steely look about his eyes. "So you finally came home. What's the matter Pell? Is the world too cruel for you to deal with?" "Shut up Adaro." "Aww did I hit a sore spot?" Pell disliked the mocking tone in Adaro's voice, his muscles all growing tense. He wasn't much shorter than Adaro, only by a few inches at the most. "I thought Dragons stayed beside their riders? There's no Dragon by your side Pell. Did it abandon you because it saw how weak you were? Or has the beast died of shame?" Shadow's anger reached Pell through their bond but he urged her to stay down. "What would you know Adaro? A person like you would never be chosen by a Dragon. My Dragon isn't beside me because I sent her somewhere safe. I knew that you'd try to hurt her. And if you launched an assault on me, she'd be very likely to stand between us. Think what you will of the Night Dragons. They're not evil like everyone thinks." "And how would you know this Pell? You're part of the Enclave aren't you? Twisted your mind have they?" "Shut up!" Imogen backed away, felling the strength of Pell's fury through the bunching muscles under her fingers. Orthos kept Morven back. It went without saying that the request Pell put to Shadow applied to him too. This was Pell's fight and nobody was to interfere. "You don't know anything! I'm on my way to becoming the leader of the Night Dragon Enclave and when I do, you'll see my point!"

Adaro stood unflinchingly, a smug smirk on his face. He knew how to vex Pell even after so long. Now he just had a few more sensitive spots. "You're wasting your breath Pell. The Night Dragon Enclave doesn't care about us. They'd rather see Dragonkind fall into anarchy. I'd heard the Great Quest succeeded. It was a surprise really. Especially since the last ones failed due to Night Dragons and their selfish desire for power. And now you're one of them. Their lust has afflicted you like a plague. The Pell I know wouldn't join such sadistic people." Shadow counted down in her head how many seconds it would be before Pell finally snapped. Orthos saw the sheer concentrated anger on Pell's face. He wanted to step in and stop his sons fighting but if he did, Pell would be seen as a weakling and a traitor. All he needed was one last little push. "I even heard a rumour that a Day Dragon and his rider sacrificed themselves to save the Oracle. And that the role was supposed to be filled by a Dawn Dragon and her rider. Rumours are she was quite a coward. How a Day Dragon could accept such a rider is beyond me. What's worse, the riders were nothing but kids." Adaro's words drove home in Pell's mind. He'd always wondered what happened to Nolita, the cowardly but brave rider of Firestorm. Now he finally knew, and the discovery shook him up badly. "Shut up! How dare you talk about Nolita like that?! You never even knew her!" Adaro took a pace back but he didn't falter for long, seeing tears building in Pell's eyes. "I don't believe this. You were chosen for the Great Quest?"

Pell flew into a flying rage at his brother, punching him square in the jaw when he began to laugh loudly. Shadow was even more enraged but she was forced to honour Pell's request. Adaro hit back, leaving a large bruise under Pell's right eye. The brothers fought for a few minutes, neither one gaining purchase on the upper hand. Pell was momentarily distracted by Shadow's mind wandering to the heavens. He looked up but saw nothing. Adaro used that window to land a low body blow on Pell, sending him to the floor in pain. "You can't honestly expect me to believe that the Oracle chose YOU to save it? A soft hearted weakling like you could never even dream of having the courage to save the leader of Dragonkind." Pell recovered enough to swing at Adaro but failed to land a strike. "Shut your mouth! Everything that happened to me and the other three riders was nothing like any normal person could imagine! We had to travel to an alternate world just to get the four Dragon Orbs. I thought that was all the Oracle needed to be rejuvenated. Shadow and I had a particularly rough time with the Dark Orb. You wouldn't have lasted a day with it in my shoes. It took the lives of innocent animals and people whilst sitting in my hand! Luring me with an irresistible force that wouldn't be denied! I almost lost every shred of my sanity getting that thing to the Oracle's cave in Orupee! I'm not the same boy you once bullied for caring about our little sister. Being with Shadow made me stronger. And we'll continue to grow together." "I've heard enough! I lost my baby brother the day that monster came along and took him away! You're nothing but a mirage to me!" Adaro finally crossed the line, drawing a short sword from his belt, lifting it high above his head.

An ear-splitting cry pierced the air and it didn't sound too friendly. Shadow came zooming over the trees, landing heavily between Pell and his brother. Her orange eyes burned into Adaro's soul, forcing him back out of fear. Shadow flashed her razor sharp teeth, snapping the jaws housing them closed several times to prove she would not stand for his violent actions. Fearing for his life, Adaro swung the sword at Shadow only to find the blade bounced off of her blackish purple scales. An angry growl reverberated from Shadow's throat at Adaro's futile attempt to protect himself. He raised the sword again but as it came down, Shadow gripped the length of steel in one of her claws, screaming in rage. Her breath alone forced Adaro backwards and onto his rear quarters. His body trembled beyond control as she stood at her full height. "Are you alright Pell?" "I'm fine Shadow. Stand down. I think he's got the point. Did you hear what he said about Nolita and Fire?" Shadow turned to face Pell, sadness in her eyes. "Yes. It's safe to assume that Kira and Elian were in the chamber when Firestorm and Nolita gave their lives. I wonder if her family knows that she did something so brave and noble, worthy of a Day Dragon rider." Pell shrugged physically and mentally. Shadow's softer side surfaced as she nuzzled Pell's chest with her snout to comfort him. Shadow was so busy calming her rider that Adaro was able to take up arms again and took another swing at her. Just when it seemed Shadow turned around too late, an arrow prised the sword from Adaro's hand.

Neither of Pell's parents knew how to shoot a bow let alone how to make one. The shooter stood roughly one hundred paces away from Adaro's back. They were cloaked so Pell couldn't identify them. He felt a large presence at his back but when Pell turned around he saw nothing. Shadow on the other hand could see a distortion of the space Pell looked at, giving a small nod. Pell noticed this gesture, looking harder. He too could see the smudged outline of something. The person who had defended Shadow stepped forward, their bow raised. "Wound them and I shall see fit to remove your life." The voice was definitely female. Pell was certain he knew it from somewhere. 'I know that voice.' "So you should. She's an old friend of yours Pell." 'It can't be…Kira?' Regardless of the long ranged weapon possessed by the girl, Adaro charged at her with a roar of rage. He was a few paces away when he was lifted off of the ground by something he couldn't see. "Put me down!" "Tut, tut, tut. So hasty. My Dragon will put you down on one condition." "Name it!" "Leave Pell and Shadow alone. The words he speaks are true. I should know." The stranger removed their hood and Pell could hardly believe his eyes. Dark skin, face paint and menacing brown eyes pointed to the identity of only one person Pell knew. "Kira?!" "It's been a while, Pell. You're probably wondering what I'm doing here. Fang sensed Shadow's anger as we were passing nearby. She likely felt us in the vicinity." Pell thought back to when Shadow had caused him to become distracted, allowing Adaro to knock him down. He watched as his brother stayed suspended in the air, flailing his arms wildly in a feeble attempt to be put down.

Pell couldn't say he wasn't happy to see Kira. In truth, he'd missed the way she would taunt him. But her arriving and disrupting the fight between him and Adaro aroused a new problem. "Now I've seen everything!" Adaro laughed despite his current predicament. "First Pell gets chosen to be a Dragonrider, then he claims to have been selected to save the Oracle and now he's being protected by a girl!" Adaro's rant irritated Kira to the point where she drew a second arrow, aiming it slightly away from his head and where she knew Fang was, loosing the projectile through the air. That served to silence Adaro. "Shut your mouth you worthless bag of bones! Pell was chosen for the Great Quest. Getting on with him was no picnic. Now I see why he was so hard to be around. Because you always saw delight in bullying him. Say what you will about Pell. You never got to see what we went through. My Dusk Dragon had to lose his eye for the Oracle. A Dawn Dragon lost an egg that failed to hatch before my eyes, forming an orb that gave Fang his eye back. And the rider you claimed to be a coward was the bravest of us all. Disrespect Nolita and her Dragon again and I will kill you. She was like a little sister to us." Kira's voice projected her anger at Adaro, staring coldly into his eyes. "It's true that Pell also thought of Nolita like you do. She had her faults. But in the end, it was Nolita's bravery that saved us all. So you'd better be grateful for the sacrifice she and Firestorm made." Adaro spoke no further words, turning tail and running for cover once Fang dropped him.

The Night and Dusk Dragons greeted each other with more affection than either Pell or Kira expected. Fang's neck circled around Shadow's and his arms embraced her. The noises both Dragons made were unthinkably soft. "Shadow, are you sure you're feeling alright today?" Shadow released her hold on Fang, gazing into Pell's eyes as if to question his worry. Kira also had some concern about the way Fang greeted Shadow. "Pell, has Shadow asked you any…unusual questions regarding a human of the same gender as she?" Pell blinked, thinking for a moment until heat rushed to his pale cheeks. Kira took that as his answer, unarming herself and stepping toward him. "We'll talk more later. Is Shadow hurt?" Pell shook his head. "No. Adaro's blade bounced right back off. But I felt each strike as if somebody pummelled me with a plank of rounded wood." Pell turned to his family, hoping they weren't too afraid of Kira and Fang since they appeared out of nowhere. The trio moved closer but at a slow pace. To pass the waiting time, Kira patted Fang on the neck, earning her a contented growl from the wise old Dusk Dragon. Shadow also wanted some attention, putting the tip of her snout in Pell's hand. He granted Shadow's wish mainly to prove to his family that she really was a gentle giant. Pell's family stopped some odd paces short of Shadow, gazing at her fearfully. "It's alright she's calm now. Shadow had no intent to harm Adaro in any way. She meant only to scare him." Orthos was the first to reach out to touch Shadow. Normally Pell wouldn't allow other people to touch his Dragon but his family had special privileges. Whatever idea Orthos had about the texture of Shadow's scales was proven wrong when his fingers brushed them.

They were hard but exceedingly smooth. Each scale was a tiny bit pointy but tucked in close to Shadow's body so he wasn't prodded. Morven slowly followed suit. She too was amazed at how smooth Shadow's scales were. Only Imogen remained and she was rooted to the spot. Pell took hold of Imogen's hand and gently guided her to Shadow's side. To put the girl at ease, Shadow turned her attention to the greyish blue lustre of Fang's scales. Since the Night Dragon hadn't been paying attention, she flinched a little in surprise. This in turn made Imogen even more frightened. Kira watched with curious brown eyes. Imogen was like Nolita in some ways. The girl was petrified of Shadow, so much that she had to be led to Shadow's side by the hand. Pell's gentleness was new to Kira. She'd never seen him be so kind. The words he spoke were soft like a summer breeze. 'If only he'd been like that with Nolita. But at least he protected her. Just like we'd asked him too.' "So do I Kira. Pell has changed over the three season rotations we've been apart. You must tell him why we're really here Kira. I'm certain that Pell will be very proud of what he's been chosen for. True we have served our life's purpose but that doesn't mean the Oracle can't call on us." "You're right Fang. But it'll be better if he was sitting down first. No doubt it'll be a shock when we tell him how Nolita and Firestorm barrelled through the Night Dragons to save the Oracle." Fang was in agreement, his eyes of silver observing the look of bewilderment on Imogen's face as she stroked Shadow's shoulder.

Although Kira was enjoying the family moment Pell shared with his parents and sister, she insisted that they go inside and have a talk. Fang and Shadow curled up beside the house, snuggled up together for warmth. Fang lay behind Shadow, one of his large wings covering her blackish purple body. Pell moved around the moderately sized kitchen making drinks for everyone. As he did so, Kira watched his every move. Her hunter nerves had been set off by Adaro so she was on high alert in case he came back. Imogen appeared to be nervous of Kira, likely due to the colour of her skin and the paint on her face. "Shadow tells me there's another reason you're here Kira. Not just to embarrass me in front of my brother. But you have my thanks for stepping in to defend Shadow." "It was by her asking that Fang and I came here. I was perfectly willing to carry on. I guess nobody told you about Nolita." "No. I was reinstated into the Night Dragon Enclave upon Segun's death. In a few years I'll be its new leader. Possibly." "Possibly?" "I'm not the only candidate but a few of the senior riders are in my favour." Pell set all the drinks in front of the respective drinker, sitting by Imogen with a cup of his own. "Nobody would've found me easily." "I guessed. You should know that it was Elian and Aurora's life's purpose to sacrifice themselves, not Nolita and Firestorm. She did it merely to prove that death held no fearful grip on her. Nolita and Firestorm are now as one inside the Oracle." "That must've shook Elian up pretty badly." "Yeah. Yes it did. I had to use all my strength to hold him back from jumping in after them. Despite being robbed of her reason to live, Ra was proud of Fire and Nolita." "We all should be. After all, she was quite the character."

Kira knew Pell meant Nolita's cowardice but he'd chosen to put it nicely to avoid being slugged. Fang invaded Kira's mind, insisting that she tell Pell of their newest mission. "The Great Quest might've ended Pell, but the Oracle has need of us again." Pell looked up from his cup, wondering what the Oracle could possibly want with them. "I was wondering the same thing when Fang told me the Oracle had been in touch. The details of the task put to us are scant but it must be very important if it requested us." "Does Elian know?" "I think so. Fang says he's not sure. We haven't seen Elian since we saved Dragonkind. So, care to introduce me to your family? I'm always eager to make new friends." Pell glared at Kira for her slightly mocking tone, but introduced his family each in turn. Kira nodded slightly in acknowledgement with each name given, making sure to remember them. "And you've met my foul mouthed brother Adaro. No doubt he'll hide until we're gone. Kira, I get the feeling you're withholding information about this task but I'm going to let it slide considering the Oracle has likely told you not to ruin the surprise." Kira gave a slight chuckle and that told Pell he wasn't wrong. Looking outside Pell saw the sun was getting ready to set on Areth. "Well we'd better set off soon. Night isn't far away now. I'd rather not stay too long. Wouldn't want to give Adaro the satisfaction." "Understood. We'll leave when you're ready Pell." Finishing his drink, Pell set about getting ready to go. No doubt Imogen was sad to see him leaving so soon.

By the time Pell was ready to go, the setting sun looked like it was balancing atop the trees to the west of the farm. Shadow and Fang received some attention before sprinting into their take-off runs. They were a fair distance apart to allow room for their large wings. Shadow departed from the ground first with one mighty downward sweep of her wings. Fang wasn't far behind her, catching up once he was properly airborne."Should we make this a moment they'll remember Pell? Fang has suggested that we all swoop over their heads at a safe distance." "Sounds good Shadow. Give Fang the all clear. We're going in." Shadow did as instructed whilst banking gently to the left. Fang turned right, flying parallel to Shadow upon exiting the turn. As expected, Orthos, Morven and Imogen ducked as the Dragons flew overhead but their panic was not necessary. They waved as Pell and Kira vanished into the horizon. Shadow could tell that leaving his family had caused Pell some pain but he was fighting it desperately since Kira was a Dragon away. He wouldn't show weakness in front of her. Kira had only seen Pell as a strong but stubborn leader. Balling his eyes out wouldn't do his reputation any favours. Both Dragons stayed in the air until the sun had all but disappeared. Fang located some woodland that would suffice as a suitable shelter for Pell and Kira. The riders made a plan of action and got to work. Pell was a little sore after his fight with Adaro but he ploughed on regardless. Kira made some torches and a campfire for some adequate lighting. Pell and Shadow gathered wood for the shelter whilst Fang kept his keen eyes open for danger. Building a place to sleep reminded Pell of the Great Quest and the times he butted heads with Kira.

Kira collected some large leaves to form the roof of the shelter she'd be sharing with Pell, thinking how much easier it would be to just sleep in the hollow formed by their curled up Dragons. But she wanted to test his survival skills. A lot had changed in three season rotations. Kira had become an excellent hunter and combined with Fang's camouflage she never went hungry. Pell hadn't managed too badly but he was currently nursing the bruise on his gut, courtesy of Adaro's unforgiving fist. Kira abandoned her task of making a divider to inspect the wound. Pell flinched at Kira's cold touch, glaring at her. "It's nothing too serious." "Really? If it wasn't, you'd still be hauling wood Pell. The bruising looks deep. I never got to ask what riled your brother up." "Adaro has always been a swine. And he will be until he breathes his last. Now if you don't mind…" Pell moved to stand up but Kira pushed him back to the ground. "Sit down. The shelter is almost done. You can move then." "I can't just sit here and let you do everything." "Pell, you did your job perfectly fine. Fang has declared the area safe for now. We'll leave early in the morning." "Do I even get a say in this?" "No now shut up and rest." Pell had to admit, Kira was acting very strange. But then she'd had three season rotations to grow up. In the dim light, Pell couldn't see her figure very clearly but Kira was definitely taller. Probably no more than a few inches shorter than he was. Pell reprimanded himself for being remotely interested in Kira's physique, slowly lying onto his back.

As planned, Pell woke up early the next morning no thanks to Shadow yelling at him in his mind. She was his personal wake up call each day if he ever travelled away from the Night Dragon Enclave. Pell shifted the leaf door aside only to have sunlight hit him right in the face. Looking around, Pell couldn't see Kira so he figured she was still sleeping. Now that Kira was a grown woman, Pell felt a tad nervous of stepping into her side of the shelter. "Shadow, could you ask Fang to wake Kira? I don't feel comfortable about invading her privacy." "My, my Pell how unlike you. Normally you'd go into a girls' room regardless of her age." Shadow's tone was teasing and Pell didn't respond well. He did the exact opposite of what he originally wanted to and shook Kira's shoulder. If he'd been a little less hasty, Pell might've noticed that Kira had a hand under her makeshift pillow. Sadly he found out the hard way when she pressed a knife to his throat, malice in her tired eyes. "What do you want?" She spat almost too venomously for Pell's liking. "It's morning. I thought you'd already be awake Kira. Might I ask what you plan on doing with the knife that is currently pressed to my gullet?" Kira lowered the blade in question, giving Pell and even angrier face that told him to get out and he did so gladly. Shadow's lips were curled into a toothy grin and she growled in a way that made it sound like laughter. "Shut up Shadow. Perhaps if you didn't taunt me I might not have come so close to being killed." "You took my comment the wrong way so it's your fault. Fang would've been more than happy to stick his nose into the shelter and wake Kira. She's used to him waking her." "Then that's what we'll do next time."

Kira didn't keep Pell waiting too long, emerging from the shelter ready for the day. Now that it was much lighter Pell could see how much Kira had changed physically. Plus she was no longer wearing a full body cloak. Pell was so used to seeing girls in tunics and waistcoats that Kira's attire startled him. She wore what looked like a low cut top that showed her cleavage, stopping at the bottom of her ribs. The garment appeared to be made of grey cloth or animal pelt given the traces of fur. On Kira's lower half she wore tight trousers apparently made out of leather with a cloth lining. Like most leather clothing they were a tan brown in colour that contrasted well with Kira's dark brown flesh. Kira stretched gladly, her brown eyes closed as she pulled a face. Pell was given a good view of Kira's breasts at that point. He hadn't cared much to look at them when they were younger. After all, Pell had no wish to fall in love back then. Now however Pell found crude thoughts circling in his mind as he observed the mounds of flesh being accentuated when Kira leaned backwards, her spine giving out a few audible cracks. Pell couldn't rip his eyes away fast enough and Kira caught him looking at her. Pell's head whipped to the side upon Kira's hand making contact with his cheek. "Ouch." "Pervert." "I never said I was interested." Pell's remark earned him a second slap across his other cheek, leaving another red mark behind. "Don't make me hurt you Pell. You'll be wise to stay quiet if you value your manhood." Pell wasn't willing to call Kira's bluff, stepping over to the nearby stream.

After a breakfast of herb roasted fish, Pell and Kira mounted their Dragons to begin the long arduous journey to the mountains of Orupee where the Oracle awaited them. The sea they crossed had little in the way of landmass for the Dragons to rest on. Shadow ploughed on tirelessly as did Fang. Kira would glance at Pell every now and again to see how he was holding up. His face showed no emotion but she could just imagine he was torn inside. "How is Pell holding Fang? I can't tell from here. If he's in emotional pain then Pell's very good at hiding it." Fang was silent for a minute or two, probably conversing with Shadow. "Pell is fine. Shadow has assured me that he'll come around. How about you Kira? You've been off all morning." "I don't know what you're talking about Fang. I'm just a bit annoyed with how Pell looked at me this morning. I felt like he was preying on me." Fang gave a snort of amusement that earned him a slap on the neck. "You've both changed so much over the seasons, Kira. Pell is more handsome than he used to be. And you've blossomed into a fine young woman. No doubt Pell was a little surprised to see how beautiful you have become." The idea of Pell being attracted to her sickened Kira to her stomach. Fang had a point about the Isaan boy's good looks but he repulsed her in general. Still there was a possibility that Pell might have some kind of feelings for her. They'd learned to get along just before the world was saved. Kira pushed the thought to one side, focusing on getting to Orupee. During the mental conversation between Fang and Kira, Pell glanced in their direction. He couldn't help but wonder what they might be talking about. 'It's none of my business. Just stay focused.'

It took a couple of days of hard flying but Pell and Kira eventually reached Orupee. Even after so long, Kira located the first campsite she, Pell, Elian and Nolita had camped at when their mission began. It sure brought back memories. "Fang, tell Shadow we'll rest here for tonight. It'll be dark soon and I don't fancy our chances of flying in turbulent air during nightfall." "Very well Kira. I'm sure Pell will understand. We've been flying for two days with few breaks. Shadow must be shattered. But she's much stronger than she used to be." There was a hint of pride in Fang's voice as he spoke of Shadow. But he was right. The Night Dragon had gained a lot of power since they last saw her. Fang flew downward in a slight circle, following Shadow's lead. Both Dragons touched down soundlessly on the cold grass and allowed their riders to dismount and get the blood circulating through their stiff joints. There were still remnants of the last shelter between the trees, calling more of Kira's memories forwards. "Brings back memories doesn't it? Back when we barely got along with each other." Kira flinched, turning to face Pell. She hadn't heard him approaching. "Don't sneak up on me like that. But you're right Pell. It does remind me of the Great Quest. Even though she's gone, I can still see Nolita by the stream washing her hands. To us it was silly but to Nolita, it was a way of coping with everything." "Yeah. Everybody has their quirks, Kira. We should set up camp." "Actually Pell, I'd rather sleep with Fang tonight. I'll feel safer." "No problem."

Pell was kept awake by his own memories in the dark of night. He'd relit the fire to keep warm, gazing into the dancing embers. Looking to the stream, a memory began to play. It had been their first night together when the Dragon Hunters tried to ambush them. Nolita had been the one to warn them of the dangers through Firestorm. One Hunter had piqued Pell's curiosity. The leader was peculiar with his mismatched eyes and bizarre aura. 'Kasau I think his name was. Ra said the man was a joining and that when he was killed by Shadow, the Demon possessed another Hunter. Come to think of it, I wonder how those guys are doing since we obtained the Dusk Dragon Orb. Probably still fearing for their lives.' Movement behind him brought Pell out of his musings. Kira had shuffled in the hollow made by Fang. The Dusk Dragon however had his eyes on Pell but not in a menacing way. Rather he was curious as to why Pell wasn't sleeping. "Stop staring at me. I don't like it." Fang lifted his head high on his neck and looked around, sniffing the air. Pell looked around too, thinking that danger might be lurking nearby. Finding nothing, Pell relaxed again, staring back into the fire. For some reason Pell looked up to the stars as they twinkled gently in the night sky. He wondered if Nolita and Firestorm were up there watching as he Elian and Kira continued on with their lives. "You should rest, Pell. There's only a few hours of night left." "Okay Shadow. Sorry if I made you worry." "No it's okay. To be honest I've not gotten much sleep either. A shiver keeps running down my spine. The event that took place here scarred the land. Come, I'll keep you warm." Pell stood up and brushed the dusty dirt from his trousers before walking over to Shadow.

Birdsong woke Kira when morning rolled around. She pushed herself up from Fang's side and moved his wing to let the sun shine into the hollow he'd made to shield her. Fang was already awake, his attention on Pell and Shadow. "What's up Fang?" Kira got her answer by looking in the same direction. Pell was lying between Shadow's claws with only some leaves protecting him from the floor. Looking closer, Kira noticed that Shadow had one claw gently over Pell's lower body whilst her head shielded his torso. It was also being held in Pell's arms. Shadow's foreleg served to cushion Pell's head, allowing him to nuzzle her cheek if he wanted. "Adorable aren't they Kira? It's an interesting way to sleep if you ask me." Kira hadn't expected Fang to say something, flinching a little. "Yes I suppose it is. But I guess it's comfortable for them." "Maybe we should give it a go. Sleeping against my side hurts your neck. Should I wake Shadow?" "No. Let them sleep. Pell was up late last night. I felt you staring at him in my sleep. Plus it gives me time to bathe in peace." Kira felt an air of excitement about her Dragon, being quick to scold him. "Fang I forbid you to look at me with no clothes on." "I'm sorry Kira. If it makes you fell any more cosy, I can shield you with my camouflage. Don't worry I won't look." Kira sighed in defeat, patting Fang on the neck to know she agreed. He followed Kira to the waters' edge where she stripped, using his camouflage to shield her from anybody who might pass by. With her clothes off, Kira stepped into the cold water, wading into the deeper flowing liquid.

Kira didn't bathe for long. She was done within roughly five minutes. Fang stuck by Kira's side as she dressed, using his wing to shield her whilst he glanced towards Pell and Shadow. They were both still sleeping. Fang's attention was torn from them by a call to the east. The voice sounded familiar but different. "We have company, Kira. And it knows us." This news made Kira panic. Shadow woke up slowly from her slumber when a large cloud of dust was kicked up. Two heavy objects landed within the unsettled dirt. Kira ducked behind Fang's wing until it died down, revealing two Dragons. One was a marvellous gold and the other a deep cornflower blue. The rider of the Dawn Dragon jumped excitedly from their saddle, clearly male. "Kira! I found you!" 'Elian?' The voice's owner was indeed Elian. He was taller with slightly longer hair and in need of a shave. Elian was so happy to see Kira he failed to notice that only her head was visible. Fang suddenly dropped his camouflage and snarled at Elian, stopping the Racafian boy dead in his tracks. "There you are Fang." Elian stepped back when Fang kept up his angry front. It was then he noticed Kira's shoulders were bare. "Oh good grief! Shame on me!" "Naïve as usual, aren't you Elian?" "Sorry Kira, I didn't know. I'll just go and stand by Ra." "Or you could wake Pell. I'm mildly surprised that you failed to notice him and Shadow cosied up over there." Elian followed the jerk of Ra's head, a huge smile stretching across his face. Shadow woke up after a mental swap with Ra, lifting her huge head with a yawn of content, ending the exhalation with a slight growl. That gave Elian the perfect window to wake Pell as he slumbered undisturbed. "Let him have it Elian."

Kira finished dressing in time to see Elian pouncing on Pell, waking the Night Dragon rider right away. Pell's arms and legs flailed around under Elian's weight. The sight was hilarious and even Shadow found herself amused. "Get off of me you hooligan!" Since Kira was decent, Fang lent a claw, gently taking hold of Elian's tunic and pulled him away from an angry Pell. Seeing his assailant calmed Pell somewhat. "Elian you prat! Whatever happened to just shaking a guys' shoulder to wake him up?!" "Sorry Pell I just couldn't resist it. You look tired." "Tell me something I don't know Elian." "Hang on a minute. Why are you travelling with Kira? I thought you hated each other?" "Butt your nose out Elian." Kira stepped in before Elian got himself hurt, placing a hand on his shoulder. Elian turned around with a smile until he just happened to look down towards Kira's chest. 'That does it!' SLAP! "Ow! Kira what was that for?!" "You know exactly what that was for. Eyes on the face and no lower. Do I make myself clear Elian?" Elian nodded sheepishly, rubbing his reddened cheek. "Good. How did you find us?" "It was easy. We rested up not far away from here and Ra was able to contact Fang. Me and Ra had another task to do before we see the Oracle." Kira raised an eyebrow in question until somebody else cleared their throat. Kira turned in the direction the sound came from, her eyes finding the Day Dragon beside Ra. It appeared to be male with a female rider. The girl was no older than Kira with long ashen brown hair and cold grey eyes.

And there you have it folks. Pell, Kira and Elian have been reunited, but for how long? What does the Oracle want?

Read on to find out more.