Felina Nova turned a little in her sleep, snuggling deeper into her pillows, the sheets twisted around her legs. She was only half asleep, but she was so warm and comfy, with the sun shining down on her. It was such a great day to sleep in, what with the dragon ceremony...
Wait.
She shot up like a lightning bolt and flew out of bed. She frantically fixed her bra and began pulling on dark gray tights and a light gray tunic. She pulled on her slip on shoes and frantically took a brush through her short, brown-red feathered hair. She put the brush down and looked at herself in the mirror. She was a 17 year of surprisingly good health, freckles dusted her cheeks, and bright brown eyes looked back at her. She was about 5' 8", with a small chest and big hips. And today was the day she would find out if she would become a dragon's partner or not.
She sighed heavily. Today was a day most people dreamed about. But for her it was only dreamy the first ten times. Now, it was either she was picked, or she lost her elemental abilities and was forced to find something else to do with her life. She walked to the door, forgoing her bag today and left her dorm room. She locked it and headed down the the hall of dorm doors. She was one of the oldest to reside in the female dorms of the monastery, and after today, if nothing went well, she would have to find other arrangements.
The wooden double doors leading out of the female dorms came to small garden courtyard. Green light lit the white walls of the hallway, arches passing on Felina's right. She loved this place. She hadn't had a brilliant life before coming here, and once she had been found to be a fire elemental, she suddenly had a purpose in life.
Only... She wasn't sure if she would ever get to fulfill it.
She came out to an open area, heading for the court yard when a hand appeared out of no where. It gently touched her right cheek, as the owner's lips whispered in her left ear.

"You really shouldn't be late on such and important day, Fela," whispered the voice with a slight chuckle.
Fela made a face at her pet name and swatted the hand away. It belonged to her best friend, Arbor Gilmick. An air elemental, with a calm exterior. He was 6 foot, slender, but with nice muscle. His skin was a sweet cocoa color, his eyes were a deep golden, and his hair an insane shade of platinum blond. He had the type of face you couldn't hate.
"Yeah, well, looks like your late too," she retorted, and picked up her pace.
"Heh, not so much, love. I was waiting for you," he always walked tall, his chest out, his hand behind his back, and he always made sure he never walked infront of Fela.
"Yeah, yeah, you and you loyalty to the very end," she said rolling her eyes.

The first day they met, Arbor walked up to her, got down on knee and bowed before her as he swore an oath of loyalty that is only sworn to royalty. She never understood it, but since that day he had faithfully done everything to serve her, whether she wanted it or not. Preparing clothes, walking her to class, sparring with her, making sure she had back ups in case anything went wrong. It had weirded her out at first, but now it was just common place, she hardly ever questioned it anymore. And to be honest, she would miss it.
Fela entered the court yard where students had already gathered. Contrary to her previous thought, she was right on time. But it seemed it didn't matter. The only ones picking partners today was the air dragon Nemfus, and the earth dragon Admon. [Wish_Alley]

Calin Oriel wasn't the best student in Abby. In fact he was tardy to every class more often then present. When he was there he always seemed distant. Calin by no means poorly skilled just unmotivated. Most of the time he could be found in the courtyard in a tree with a book in hand. He loved the earth. The smell of grass and flowers were like an addiction. The kid was quiet unless a group of the others had found him and he was happily chatting away but he was more of a solitary soul and the teachers were not pleased. He had skipped out on every dragon ceremony since he had come to the Abby when he was 9. Calin would wait until the dragons showed and then walked away when the Earth dragon didn't show.

Calin fidgeted as Admon, the Dragon of Earth, stared straight at him. The weight of the stare screamed irritation. Perhaps the dragon was not pleased with his long braided blond hair or his small frame despite his height of 6'2". Maybe, unless the large tree like dragon was actually considering him. This was his last shot. This was his eighteenth birthday and if he wasn't picked today he would never be able to work with his element, earth. He was luckier than most seeing that his birthday fell on the day of his birthday every year.

A deep-aged snarl issued from Amond as he walked forward. Long vine like whiskers moved in front of the dragon and wrapped around Calin torso and arms.
"Uh, does this mean he chose me?" Calin stuttered as he kept eye contact with the dragon who toward above him. Fangs, large razor sharp white fangs lowered down towards him.
"Why didn't some one tell us that dragons ate Humans?" Calin squeaked. The dragon stopped moving and then seemed to chuckle heartily. The whiskers got tighter around Calin and the dragon lifted him until they were eye to eye. The whiskers slithered up his torso until the ends of both whiskers touched the middle of Calin's forehead and then drew back. Amond closed his eyes. The whisker plunged forward breaking past The skin on Calin's forehead. Calin hadn't expected any of this. He knew that the dragon's bonded with their partners but not like this, but then again he had never seen the Earth dragon in person.

It was painful and confusing. He could hear and elder's voice. It sounded wise and calm. It kept telling him to relax but his head felt like it was splitting. Before the others they could see the change as Calin's hair turned a grass green and his eyes a dark brown. Calin relaxed and then slumped as the dragon dropped him to the ground. Calin was out like a light the dragon curled himself around the boy and waited for him to wake.[lrs928]

Fela watched in awe. It never ceased to amaze her the changes that took place when one bonded with a dragon. They always become more exotic somehow. They all watched silently as Admon covered the boy, and then Nemfus came forward. He was an angelic air dragons, he had a thin body but didn't rely on currents for flight. He had huge feathery white wings, his body covered in white fur, with browns horns adorning his head. His nose tendrils silently reached out through the crowd. Fela was too busy watching Admon to notice the tendrils stop at her best friend.
Arbor looked unblinkingly at the dragon as the crowd parted. She slowly moved away, trying to stomp down her feeling of jealousy. Arbor continued to watch as both tips of the tendrils poised at his temples on both sides of his head. Suddenly his head jerked back, and he seemed wreath in silent pain. All the while Nemfus watched calmly. Fela was screaming in her head for him to stop, but this is how it had to be. This is how it was done.
Arbor wrethed and thrashed until finally the tendril released him and he collapsed on one knee. His hair had turned a brilliant white. Arbor looked up, pain in his eyes, and then bowed his head before the dragon.
Well that was it. It was over. the riders had been chosen, it was time for the rest of them to either pack up or get back to training. Just as Fela turned away, trying to hide her coming tears, a shadow descended upon her. She looked up in time to hear the rush of wings as she fell on her butt. She looked up to see a fire dragon looming above her. He was huge, his wings large and leathery, his skin covered in hard red scales, twisted horns on his head, and his eyes were black like charcoal. His entire body emanated heat, and it make her shiver. This was Fenrir. A legendary fire dragon. But of course it was Fenrir, it obviously wouldn't be King. He and his partner had been together for 2,000 years, so of course it would be Fenrir.

"And just where do you think you're going?" came a voice.
Fela blinked. No one else seemed to have heard it.
"Yes, yes, very nice," came the voice again.

It sounded smug and cool, like it had just found a not so rare find that no one else could find. His muzzle got very close, she could feel the heat from his nostrils. The end of his tail was moving close, and she tried not to jump when brushed her thigh. It traveled upward to her hip, caressing the curve of her figure, brushing her boob and stomach. She blushed but held very still as it moved to her back.

"Kind of small in the chest, but she has great power in the thighs. Definitely a good find," the voice chuckled.
"Hey! My boobs aren't small!" she snapped back without realizing it.
Fenrir looked surprised, "You can hear me?"
Fela was about to yell and answer when a devilish smile crossed his face, "Well, this will be interesting."

Just as Fela was about to ask was would be interesting she felt the sharp end of his tail plunge into her back. She was barely able to scream before she passed out. [Wish_Alley]

Calin woke up ten minutes later, his head spinning. His eyes fixated above him as he stared at the Amond. Had he just bonded with the dragon? Reaching up he stroked Admon's face. His scales were made of bark and his fur a mixture of moss and leaves.

"It's time to go, boy. Climb a board, you haven't the time to waist. We must make it to the mountains before sundown or the passage will close until the next full moon." The old voice of Admond said.

Calin nodded, stood, and then slung his left leg over the dragons back. Admon waited for the boy to settle and then rose up.

"Hold on," Amond ordered.

The world blurred as Amond lunged forward. Calin couldn't tell if Amond was flying close to the ground or running but he knew the pace was incredible. Calin was sure they would hit a tree but every time they got close the trees seemed to jump away from them. At this rate they would be there in a few short hours.[lrs928]

Felina felt immense pain in her back and a heat that should have burned her alive. She opened her eyes to find herself floating over a land of volcanoes and lava. Orange light bathed the area and the sky was black with ash and smoke. She looked around and saw a figure floating some ways away. He looked human, but she couldn't see his face. It was then she noticed the horns on his head, the huge wings on his back, his tail, and the claws on his hands. He came closer and she saw the fangs in his evil smile.

"I've waited so long," he said as his hands touched her cheek.

She couldn't say anything as he pulled her close and embraced her. It was then she realized she was naked, and his claws were digging in her back. It was searing and painful, and his tail curled around her leg. He was crushing her to him, burning her and she couldn't get free.

"So long. So long. So long...."

His voice rung in her ear, as the vision faded and was replaced with something brighter. As a new voice replaced the fading echo.

"Fela! Fel! Felina! Open your eyes!" came Arbor's voice.

He was shaking her, and she realized his hand was shaking. He looked pale, from more than just worry over her. His bonding had taken a toll, and looked green in the face. Or maybe is was just because of how white his hair was.

"W-Wha..." she tried to say but even talking hurt.
"We have to go. We can't wait, come on. Bare with me," he whispered, as he gently lifted her up.

She cried out in pain. Despite his best effort to miss her wound, there was only so much he do. She amanged to see the court yard was empty through squinted eyes, before she closed her eyes again and let Arbor hold her.

"I'll kill you if I ever see you do something like that again," he snarled through gritted teeth as he pushed past Fenrir and went to Nemfus.
"Right, child. She's mind. I can do with her what I will," he growled.
Arbor ignored him.

Nemfus took off, following were Admon had gone and Fenrir grudgingly followed. [Wish_Alley]

The world flashed at an alarming rate. Amond kept his pace consistent. "Can't you fly?" Calin asked as he clung tightly to the grassy looking fur on Amond's back. The dragon stopped abruptly.

"Every dragon can fly but I prefer to keep my feet on the earth and stay hidden from unwanted pests," Amond replied. "Never the less it would save time."

"But you have no wings!" Calin exclaimed. Amond flicked his tail. The grand dragon of earth lept into to the air. Calin flinched waiting for their rough decent back to the ground but they did not fall back down to earth.

"Many dragon's heavy frames causes them to rely on wings but myself the opposite. My scales may look like tree bark but I am not made of wood. When on the ground I am sturdy and solid but in the air I am light like the petals of a flower. I float upon the currents in the air. Though, I have never been fond of the air. I am vulnerable here. Like water and stone, and ice I find that the air is a less safe place for us. We are out of our elements at that point." Amond said as he flew up and onward.

Time slipped by like water through fingers. The mountain grew closer until they were upon it. Flying through a cave into complete darkness for severally minutes until light brightened the view ahead of them. They popped out into what only could have been explained as an oasis. There was every element at once among the place. Light and darkness rotated around the oasis and a breeze floated and rustled the leafs of the trees. A fir raged at the center while a water fall and stream caused the oasis to be an island. There was a stone temple beside the falls. The walls surrounding the oasis and the water were cover in ice. It was amazing and beyond Calin's imagination. Beside the fire light the others dragons and their partners stood waiting for the new recruits.[lrs928]

Fela laid her head on Nemfus' fluffy main and tried to block out the pain. She knew of Fenrir. Most everyone did, no matter what nation you were. He was known because he picked a new rider every year, because, as he claims, none of the others can keep up. They're expendable, and his to do with what he pleases. She heard his last rider only lasted a month, but because the bonding can only take place once a year, he was out of luck until now.
She wondered how long she would last...

"I wouldn't think such things if I were you. Besides, who says I'm going to keep a small chested hussy like you?" Fenrir said rather nastily.

Fela winced, holding back tears. His words cut like a knife, and he meant them too. She really was just property to him. Ugly property apparently. She didn't answer back as she tried to hold back tears cause it only made her back hurt more. It was then she felt the reassuring hand on her shoulder and she looked over her shoulder in time to see Arbor give Fenrir a defiant, disgusted look.

"SILENCE!" he lashed back at Fenrir, his malice filled voice rippling even into Fela's mind despite him trying not to reach her.
"HOW DARE YOU SPEAK TO ME IN SUCH A---," Fenrir roared back ready to rip the boy in two as he lunged forward.

But a single look from Nemfus stopped him dead in his tracks. They locked eyes for a few minutes and Fenrir slowly backed off, grumbling.

"You can't be with her forever, snow flake," Fenrir said softly.
"Do keep from agitating him, boy. He's hard enough to deal with on a good day, we don't need you two fighting over his new toy," Nemfus said in a cool voice.

Arbor didn't say anything, and Fela remained silent. They flew like that for awhile before finally the mountain came into view. They entered the cave and as light surrounded them Fela began to feel better. The pain went away. She was still bleeding, and sweating, but atleast she could move more now. They landed and Arbor helped her down. She was sure she looked like a drowned rat, but she tried not to look anyone in the eye. [Wish_Alley]

Touching down onto the grassy portion of the island, Calin rolled off. He breathed a deep sigh of relief at the feel of the grass between his toes. "This place is amazing! So few have ever seen this place, it's a true haven!" Calin exclaimed.

"Welcome new one to the oasis. My name is Jade Ila and I am the stone warrior. I am pleased to see another from the Earth Empire. I do enjoy meeting others from my land. You will be pleased to see the homeland is prospering in many ways. The place is just as lush as it were before and Emperor is in good health." Jade said as she stood before him looking up into his eyes. Her eyes were a deep purple that was sparkled lighter shades of purple like mountain jade. Her hair was onyx-black and flowed to the ground followed behind her a couple of inches on the grass.

She was 16 and decorated much more elaborately than the others a sign of wealth and status. Jades dress started above her chest and tightly fitted her body with a deep purple silk that stopped a few inches just below her bust. The dress then proceeded to fall to the ground with a soft white cloth bottom that was loose. Over her dress she wore on open sheer robe decorated with soft pink petals. Around her neck was what made Calin's mouth drop, a silk white chocker with a rose quartz lotus. The lotus was the sign of the Earth empire and worn only by the royal family. Right away Calin knew that the girl before him had to be the daughter of Emperor Aatto.Calin bowed down immediately. His head touched the soft grass.

"No, that is not necessary here. I am just like yourself and the others. Protectors of the nations." Jade said as she shook her head and backed up against her dragon the small white and green partly translucent dragon. It had large wings and it's name was Astalis. Atalis was the oldest of the female dragons and had very few partners. She had been known to go with out a partner for years as she waited for the right match.

Calin stood his face flushing a rose color. He averted his eyes and moved them To the Girl sitting on a rock beside her dragon in the snow off from everyone else. She didn't look pleased nor very nice. Her glass blue eyes pierced into him with a glare. Her hair was soft blue and her skin so white you could see her blue veins beneath. The dragon male, tall, and it's head had and ice like spiked horns.

"Her name is Alene and the dragon is Fronull. He is quiet and she is heartless. I'm still not sure if she is really with us. She has directed more rage than the fire girl." Came an all to familiar male voice. It was Jun'kei and old water nation friend who had long since left the abby. His dragon was long and serpent like with a large dorsal fin like a sea monster and lustrous blue.

His hair had change to deep blue and his eyes were a light sea green. He was shorter than Calin despite being three years older but only by four inches. His skin was dark and tanned. "This is my dragon Qualgon. He is a bit of perv but wise as can be. Man buddy I can't believe you were picked. I thought for sure at this rate it wouldn't happen. What an 18th birthday you must be having!" Jun'Kei exclaimed, "Welcome to the Zi, come it is time to meet the others." He said.[lrs928]

The grassy area before the temple was empty as they touched down. It truly was impressive and they all felt a sort of peace just from looking at the harmony the area held with all the elements.
Arbor stuck to Fela like glue. She was wobbly and looked ill. She had lost quite a bit of blood, and though he had tried to treat it, it was bleeding through the cloth bandages. He was attempting to make her sit down and get some water when he noticed the presence entering the area.
She wasn't hard to miss. She was young, but obviously a fair bit older than them. Her skin was a beautiful pale peach color, and she looked almost like a doll. She wore long flowing robes of silk, in a pearl white and soft baby blue color. She had long flowing white hair that nearly touched the floor. It was done up in braids, and folds, and tinkling gold ornaments adorned her hair. But that wasn't what caught the eye. She was beautiful, obviously, but she was being led by her dragon. A long, white furred, serpent like dragon, with tendrils streaking from his nose. He was leading her, because she was blind.
She stopped at the bottom of the stairs, and looked right at him, and smiled a serene welcoming smile that broke Arbor's heart. He hadn't seen a smile like that since... he met Fela. No words were needed between them, he knew who she was automatically.

"I am Iris, and this is Norn. I am you fellow air user. It is a pleasure to meet you, Arbor," she said smiling that smile again.

Arbor took an involuntary step forward, and suddenly stopped and looked desperately back at Fela. He didn't want to leave her, but Fela felt no obligation to ask him to stay, even though she didn't want to be left alone with Fenrir. But she gave him a weak smile and a nod. He still looked torn, but walked forward and took the hand of Iris. She was speaking softly to him as they and their dragons descended the stairs.
Fela waited till she couldn't see them before she slowly sank to the ground. She had felt better upon entering this elemental paradise, but now she was shaking. She had heard of bad bonding before, but she never thought it would happen to her. She fell over, her heard just above the grass. She didn't think she was going to be sick, but at the same time she couldn't out passing out.
She could feel Fenrir's eyes on her, and it only made things worse. They were roving, piercing, judgmental eyes. She felt him move closer and tears really did well up in her eyes this time. If he had done this during their bonding, what would it be like being his partner?

"The pain can't be that bad. Your a fire user. Pain is what we live off of. Maybe I made a mistake. But I guess it doesn't matter, if this is too much... You won't last long," he said in a soft, grating voice.
"Shut up, Fenrir," came a sharp retort.

Fela's head shot up and though regretted it immediately for the pain, she couldn't look away from what she saw before her.
Standing before her was an amazon of a woman that everyone and their senile grandparents knew about in the fire nations. She was the oldest Zi rider in history, Landra Dalmacus. She was tall, close to six feet. Thin, but muscular, with a figure that wouldn't quit. She wasn't big busted, and didn't have big thighs, but she wasn't skinny thin either. She had nicely toned skin, and eyes that glowed like flames. A cool orange color that cut through whatever malice Fenrir had tried to cause in Fela's soul. Her hair was red-orange, with yellow tips, and she stood before Fela without an ounce of doubt in the presence she held.
Behind her stood her partner, King. He was thinner, and smaller than Fenrir, but was still some how just as big. Unlike Fenrir, he had feathered wings, and feathers from his head down to his tail. He was all reds, oranges, and yellow, with brown-black horns. It was said he was the spawn of a phoenix and dragon, but no one could prove it.
They were legends, and Fela couldn't make her jaw close in their presence.

"Well, judging from your expression, no introductions are needed here. C'mon, you look terrible. Lets go get you some help for that back, and then we can meet the others," she said gently, as she helped Fela get up. [Wish_Alley]

Jade lead the others into the temple. It was about time for them all to start their meeting. They had so much to talk about and so little time to actually work with. It was a rare day when the other countries were able to meet and discuss the needs of their world. It was their jobs to keep the peace. There hadn't been war in hundreds of years. Sure, there were plenty of violent acts and small out bursts but most was taken care of easily.

The inside of the temple arched up and swirled to the top peak like the inside of a seashell. It was filled with hundreds of windows that threw sunlight onto the crystals causing them to glow green. The room was bathed in the green light.

"Please, relax as we wait for the few who have yet to arrive. I will go outside and wait with Landra, excuse me." She said as she moved away from them and back out the temple doors.

"Oh, my you are here already and injured. Fenrir another one? Can't you be a little more delicate?" She said as she shot an angry glare at the dragon. It was apparent she wasn't fond of the dragon.

"Can I help?" She asked Landra as she ran up beside her. She looked like a midget compared to this tall women.[lrs928]

Fenrir took a spot near the back on a flat slab. He flopped down, and snorted flames in annoyance at the girl's question. He could do whatever the damn hell, he wanted. It was obvious he disliked her just as much.

"Yes, dear. She needs medical attention. Because someone has no tact," Landra said politely, no looking at Fenrir as he glared a hole in her back.

One look from King ended that though. Fenrir could never understand why he gave so much credit to that bitchy amazon. Everyone knew it was unnatural how he treated her. Fenrir gave an annoyed and turned his back to them. [Wish_Alley]

"Let me make up some medicine for the pain. You should put her in the water to relieve some of the pain now and to clean out the wounds. I will be quick. Thankfully this place is filled with healing remedies." Jade said with a soft smile before running off. Jade turned for a moment at Fenrir and flung her wrist forward and up as the ground below the dragon jetted up. She stuck out her tongue and continued on.[lrs928]

Fenrir yelped as he was shot upwards in the air a few feet. He landed and let loose a nasty snarl. He flicked his tail angerly, and skulked away into the depths of the temple. The other riders laughed softly, and went back to chatting as a confused Fela was led back out of the temple.
They went back outside and down by the slowly flowing river that surrounded the area. Without warning Landra began to strip Fela of her bloody, soiled clothes. Of course she didn't fight back, she couldn't, she didn't have the strength. Landra took off her boots, and rolled up her pants, and helped ease Fela into the river. It was cold, and she was doing good until the water touched her back. She yelped and tried to stand up, but Landra forced her back in. Fela started crying for real as the water lapped at and cleaned the wound. King watched this all from a distance to give the girl some privacy.

"Yeah, he really did a number on you," Landra said gently, as she scooped water up in her hand and let it run over the wound.
"W-Why did he do it?" she said softly, trying to keep her arms close to her for warmth.
"Who knows. Fenrir never explains himself to anyone. Let alone his rider," she said as she eased Fela's head back into the water.
"He said I was his," Fela said it as a statement rather than a question softly, the pain was ebbing now and the water felt nice, her eyes were still closed.
"Technically you belong to each other. A dragon and their rider are as close as can be while still being separate entities. You are him, he is you, and together you make a whole. At least, its supposed to be that way," Landra said softly, and Fela opened her eyes to see Landra looking at King some what.

There were rumors about them. Supposedly Landra had promised herself to her dragon. She was his to do with as he pleased. It was said she did it because she was in love with him. And he supposedly loved her back. Which is why he vowed to never take another partner. It was all just speculation, but even in her semi-conscious state Fela could see the look in her eyes.

"Close your eyes, dear. We're going a bit out of order," Landra said softly.

Fela obliged and closed her eyes. She felt Landra get really close and could feel the heat radiating off her body. Landra was saying words Fela couldn't understand, and it was like Fela was in a trance all of a sudden. The words echoed with the flowing of the stream and the droplets of water falling on her face, as Landra traced a symbol on her forehead with her finger. Then suddenly she was pulled out of the water, feeling more alive than she had ever felt before.

"Easy now, you're still wounded pretty badly, but at least we have the welcoming out of the way," Landra said with a smile as she led the confused and naked Fela out of the stream. [Wish_Alley]

Jade returned with a marble bowl full of a pale yellow powder, a mix of plants she had crushed together. "I'm sorry if it took to long. This should help with any pain you have. Please, just mix this with water and drink it. My name is Jade." She said as she extended her left hand. Her long robe hid the fact until then the difference between her right and and left hand. Her left hand was appeared to be solid green jade from her finger tips to just past her wrist and then spots from there up her arm looked to be changing as well.

Calin sat cross legged on a soft red pillow with gold tassels on the temple floor. At the center of the temple was pile of pillows and then a large egg placed on top. The egg was glowing changing from one color to another. "That is a dragon egg. Recovered a few months ago. It won't hatch until one of the six elder dragon die. Although, dragons are seemingly immortal they have been known to meet an end due to unforeseen acts." Jun'kei stated as he looked as Calin's jaw drop at the sight of the egg.[lrs928]

Fela starred at Jade's hand. She didn't understand what was going on, her mind was so clear she had almost forgotten where she was.

"It's not polite to stare dear," Landra said softly, as she gently combed Fela's wet hair back with her fingers.
"I-I...," Fela tried to say but no words would come out.
"Jade, will you please put water in the bowl? We need to get her to the temple, we're late enough as it is," Landra replied, all business.

She produced a white robe and gently draped it around Fela's shoulders. She wrapped it around her, and silently walked away to burn Fela's soiled, bloody clothes. Leaving Fela standing dazed and confused.

---

Arbor sat next to Iris starring in awe at the egg. They had been talking silently to one another. Iris already felt like such a part of him, he hadn't noticed Fela was missing, or his surroundings. He just happened to glance up as the saw the shifting colors out of the corner of his eye, and had been sitting for five minutes silent as an be.

"It is lovely, isn't it?" Iris said breathlessly.
Arbor snapped out of his reverie and looked at her, "U-Uh, yes. It is."
"Its a symbol of continuation. Even if we die, even if our partners die, this will go on. No one is quite sure how they come about, the eggs. But they come and the dragons accept it," Iris said looked directly at the egg despite her blindness.
"H-How is it choosen? Its element?" Arbor said looking at her.
"Oh, its not obvious? It replaces the dragon that dies from one of the nations. It suits the need of that nation. Once, the air nation lost both its dragons at the same time, and from the egg came twins. Norn is one of those twins. His elder sister died some time ago, and Nemfus came to be. Thats just how it works," She said gently, as Norn silently touched his muzzle to her cheek, she reached up, and caressed it.
"I-I see," Arbor replied. [Wish_Alley]

Jade's smile faded under the gaze of Fela. "Uh, yeah sure." She said as she moved away from Fela and Landra. It didn't take her long as she moved down to the water and scooped water into the bowl quickly. She was only moments behind the two as they headed into the temple. She was starting to get tired having been up the past night too excited for today. She loved to meet new people and outside of the Zi she was lacking in friends. Her parents often kept her away and quiet. She was too look like a doll and safe. Jade's mother had been a rider up until she became pregnant with her.

Calin smiled as he turned back and saw Fela. He had watched her from a far back at the abby. She was beautiful and well liked. Calin had always liked her but he never acted on it since Arbor followed her like a love sick puppy. Not to mention the fact that once you left the abby there was no guarantee that they would ever see each other again. His mind wandered only and he found himself suddenly thinking of Jade. Jade was also such a fine girl but she was the daughter of the Emperor and more than likely already betrothed. Even if she wasn't he had little chance of being a proper suitor according to their tradition.[lrs928]

Fela and Landra wandered ahead, Fela gazing at her surroundings. Landra silently dropped back and fell into step with Jade. Which was slow for Landra because of her long legs.

"Don't take it personally. You know how people tend to act at first," she said gently as she took the bowl from Jade's grasp. "Make sure to be nice to the new kid. Don't beat him up too much."

She gave a wink, and walked ahead to give Fela the bowl. She took it and drank as she was instructed. They entered a large chamber filled with sitting pillows and an egg that shifted all sorts of colors. Landra directed her to a seat close to to King. Fenrir had wandered back in, but he stayed in the shadows and glared at Jade like she was some sort of insect.

"So, I take it we've gotten acquainted?" Landra said, once she had surveyed the room and made sure everyone was seated. "In that case. Lets get our new recruits to introduce themselves."

She was all smiles as she nudged Fela, hard, making the girl leap up with a yelp. She blushed and silently composed herself.

"I-I'm Felicia Nova. N-Nice to meet you all," she said quickly, sat down, and glared at Landra.

Arbor stood up next.

"I am Arbor Darren. And I am the knight of Felicia Nova," he said bowing in her direction.

Fela slapped her hand to her forehead and tried not to look at anyone. Landra and most of the others just laughed as Arbor took his seat. [Wish_Alley]

"Yes, I know. I suppose it is only a natural reaction. We all have our trials. The bonds are not as simple as a change of hair color. Each bond seems to have a secret from the research I've been doing on the past Zi." She whispered in between people introducing themselves.

Calin stood next. "Hi, I'm Calin Oriel it is a pleasure to meet you all. This is the best birthday I've had in years. Minus the pain of the bonding." he muttered.[lrs928]

"And a happy birthday to you then," Landra said sweepingly, with a smile. "Now that our new comrades have been introduced, do make sure they receive a cleansing after this. Now, what business do we have to discuss?"
"Landra, I would like to discuss the issue of the rogues that---," Iris said quickly only for Landra to interrupt.
"Iris," Landra said in a dangerous tone. "There is no need to discuss this. It has already been handled."
"But Landra! I just feel---," Iris said desperately only to be cut off again.
"Iris. There was nothing we could have done. They did it on the border, they abused their power and turned on us. Neither of us could have reached the town any quicker than we did. We were lucky to save who we did save. It was neither nation's fault. The Zi Officials have already ruled this to be the case, and those responsible have been executed. The survivors are moving on, why shouldn't we?" Landra said seriously, obvious pain in her eyes.

Fela knew exactly what they were talking about. It had taken place a few months back just over the border that divides the fire and air nations. Fire nation rebels had snuck into the Air Emperors' army, and had been posted in an air nation town just on the border. Fire soldiers from the Fire Empress' army were posted there to foster good relations between the two nations. However, these fire soldiers were part of the rebels and as soon as their comrades arrived they pillaged the town. Killing, raping, and savagely tormenting the town's people. They drank, burned buildings, and people, all in the matter of a few hours. Landra had arrived first, and as it had been described Fela could only imagine it had forced her to remember the days of the bloody war a hundred years ago, because she beat all of those involved within and inch of their life.
The fire nation had taken full responsibility for the act, as the Empress had the offenders publicly executed and led the hunt to find any others from this band of rebels. From what Fela had heard, it was around this time her predecessor had died. Though no one knew if he had been killed while hunting down the rebels. They had hopefully snuffed them out, because no further incidents had happened, and had kept the truce intact. But it seemed Iris had doubts, as she looked painfully torn in dropping the issue. She silently nodded and bowed her head, seeming to start praying.
Fela looked at Fenrir skulking in the shadows and he had a sort of evil grin on his face. He knew automatically what she was thinking and she felt a chill go down her spine as he touched her mind.

"Yes child, this is the pain you will soon endure. I can't wait for the extacy you pain with bring me. Don't disappoint," he said, as if he were whispering in her ear, his chuckling echoing in her mind.

"Next order of business," Landra said, all business once more. [Wish_Alley]

Jade stood now. "There has been some attacks on the northern borders of my land. All though we have been unable to capture all involved. Those we have captured refuse to say where they are from. They do not exhibit any ability to use the elements. They destroyed the entire village of Abera before we could stop them. The village is small but very devastating non the less. I fear their is an alliance of rebels growing. Also we must decide where the egg will go. Who will watch over it or will we set up a schedule to guard it?" Jade said as she pointed the dragon egg.[lrs928]

"Yes it seems, theres been quite a number of uprisings recently. We've been able to snuff them out fairly quickly in our nation, minimizing any casualties. Its quite distressing," Landra said the last bit in a low voice.
"Thankfully there have been very few incidents in our nation. We'll keep you all updated if this changes," Iris said, looking up from her folded hands.
"oh, yes the egg," Landra said after a few moments of contemplative silence. "Well, moving it often wouldn't be smart. And we can't expect one of us to stay here for a month, can we? What to do..." [Wish_Alley]

Alene coughed to catch the attention of everyone in the room. "I will take the egg. My home is remote and away from the other nations. It is the most centralized and least traveled area. Face it no one really wants to go into a barren iceland. They fear freezing to death or falling into the bitter waters. In-fact, we can hide it underwater and away from the sight of all people. We don't need anyone to find it." Alene said sternly. Jun'Kei's face read only shock as he looked to his partner from his land. She was from the coldest part of the Water nation and himself was from the warm tropical waters closest to the borders of the fire nation.

"For once I agree with Alene the water nation is last place it will be seen." Jade said as she backed up Alene's argument. She could really see the argument in this.[lrs928]

Landra looked skeptical for a second, then shrugged.

"Okay, sounds good to me. Anyone have any objections?" she asked.

Fela vigorously shook her head no, Arbor took Fela's side, and Iris agreed. Calin shook his head and Jun'kei followed suit.

"Well okay then. Any other news to report?" Landra said. [Wish_Alley]

There was a long pause in the room. The rushing waterfall, the crackling fire, the rustling trees, and the howling wind filled the sounds in the room. It was the purity of the elements together as one.

"Shall we adjourn then?" Jade said sweetly. It was obvious to Calin now that Landra and Jade were both strong leaders in the Zi. "I know the new ones need time to meditate and purify their souls before we all separate. I'm sure many of them miss their homelands seeing as they have been at the abbot. There families will be missing them greatly." Jade said as she smiled at Landra.[lrs928]

"That sounds like a fabulous plan. We'll leave the egg to you then," Landra said looking to Alene. "Make sure to report to Jade or I before leaving, if you would."

Landra stood up and stretched, then offered a hand to Fela to help her up. Fela took it and Landra pulled her to her feet, like she was some sort of princess.

"It was wonderful to see you all again," Landra said with a smile and a wave as she led Fela from the room by a hand, King following closely and Fenrir a little further behind. "Time for you to meditate, my dear. It will be with that brute back there, but you'll be fine. He can't hurt you where we're going."
"O-Okay. Um, what about clothes?" Fela said looking down at her rather thin robe.
"Oh, you won't be needing those," Landra said with a bright smile.
"O-Oh," she replied blushing a little. "Um, can I ask something then?"
"Yes?" Landra looked at her.
"Can I speak with Jade before we leave?" Fela said softly.
Landra smiled gently at Fela before replying, "I'll speak with her. Ah, here we are."

They stopped before a huge set of double doors made of red brick. Intricate carvings of dragons, and people, dancing, fighting, and fire. The fire nation symbol, a swirl of flames in a circle was imprinted in the middle. Fela looked up in awe, then jumped back as the doors creaked opened. Scented smoke drifted out filling Fela's nostrils and dazing her for second. That is until Landra suddenly pulled the robe off her shoulders.

"You're to clean your body and soul. Bath in the waters and meditate as they taught you in school. You'll know when to come out," she said pulling the robe off entirely and gently nudging her forward.

Fela shyly went forward inside and Fenrir silently followed. Once they were inside the doors slid shut. Inside was more red brick stone, pillars surrounded a shallow pool. In between the pillars hung torches, with low, flickering flames, and incense sticks. The room smelled of fire, and wood, spices, and stone. It was so mystifying. Fenrir circled the pool as she entered the water trying to cover herself. She tried not to meet eye contact as she knelt in the water.
It was scented with oils and lotions. She leaned back, wetting her hair and gently began to wet her body. Fenrir laid down at the pool's edge and silently watched her. Fela began to regulate her breathing, breathing deep the incense floating in the room. She listened to Fenrir's breathing, her breathing, the sounds of the water, and sound of the fire in the torches. She closed her eyes and began to meditate. [Wish_Alley]

Jade guided Calin through the back hall of the temple and then down a flight of spiral stairs to what appeared to a hot springs. The watered bubble and 2 small baths bubble with mud. "Take a clay bath and bathe in you element first. It is tradition and it is great for your skin! Then, bathe in the hot springs to become clean and relax. Meditation will help you with this. I'm sure you and Amond have much to speak about. Although you have bonded with him you still must bond your hearts. It is the one thing that is the hardest and some of the Zi never do this and wind up hurt. Good luck, Calin." Jade said with a warm smile as she left the room.

Calin stripped as Amond slithered into one of the mud baths and let out a happy groan. "So warm, this is my favorite thing. Come now boy you will enjoy this as well. I can tell that you have much love for the earth that you live upon." Amond said as he watched Calin pull of his close fast and jump into the mud. "This is great!" Calin said as he slid down until his mouth was just barely uncovered and closed his eyes.[lrs928]

Iris had led Arbor up a high tower in the temple. The walls were cool stone blue, and the steps seemed to go forever. Both Iris and Norn were quiet as they ascended the stairs, so Arbor followed suit and remained silent. They reached the top of the stairs but the ceiling was no where in sight. They seemed to have reached an owlery of sorts, but for dragons. giant perches spanned above them, with no end. Wing whistles everywhere around them.

"Did you know there used to be more dragons? And more Zi riders?" Iris said seeming to sense his upward.
"Really?" He said, sounding shocked.
"Yes. Landra was alive during this time. Of course back then she was still pretty green," Iris giggled at her small joke. "Its not a well known fact in the any of the nation's histories anymore, because of the war."

The last part had been said sadly, as her blind gaze looked upward as well.

"Well off with the clothes," she said brightly, clapping her hands together.
"W-W-WHAT!?" Arbor cried, his face going scarlet.
"Oh its not like I can see, love. Why do you think Norn didn't come up with us?" she said, still all smiles.

Now that Arbor paid attention, the thinner air dragon hadn't accompanied them all the way up.

"You will strip and continue to the top. There you will meditate in the wind. Once you have cleaned your soul in the wind, you will return to us and true warrior of Zi," Iris said with a smile.

Arbor reluctantly began to strip infront of the blind woman. Nemfus chuckled in his mind. Finally he was naked, his dark skin exposed and he continued up the stairs. The stairs from here up were much less well kept, and Arbor tried to keep from fearing for his safety. After almost 20 minutes of going around, and around on the stair they reached the top. It was a small gazebo type play, with high arches and pillars made of marble. It was bright and sunny here, and breeze blew strongly. Whistling through the arches. Arbor took a seat, as Nemfus settled himself, and they got started.

---

Landra was lounging on a cushion back in the inner chamber they had had their meeting. She was stretched out on a pillow talkking in a low voice to King. Iris stopped in the doorway of the arch as she viewed the image of them through Norn's eyes. It was quite obvious with the look on her face, Landra was being playful and teasing. Flirting, it might have been called. And King was doing it right back.
Everyone knew there was something different in the way they treated each other. The look on Landra's face, her attitude and movement always changed when she was alone with him. She wasn't Landra the amazon warrior Zi of the Fire nation, one of the strongest and oldest Zi warriors in existance. She was just Landra. And Iris knew as soon as she left this temple, she wouldn't let that side come out. It was forbidden out there, unnatural. It was still as such here, but they turned a blind eye for a friend who only wished to be close to someone they seemed to like. So they ignored her behavior, and let her be. Until they left these walls.
Iris continued forward, carrying a tray of hot coffee, biscuits, meat and cheese. She came over and took a seat next to Landra as Norn watched her body language change, and her smile disappear. Landra sat up, and took the cup of coffee offered to her. The warrior Landra was back.

Landra took a sip before replying, "Thank you. So, how long do you think it will take them?"
"Well for the sake of time I hope it doesn't take a day or two, but they are all pretty young," Iris said biting into a biscuit.
"Mmmm," was all Landra said in return. "What do you make of a third being chosen?"
"That was quite a shocker. I think the Zi Officials will have something to say about that," Iris said, taking a sip of her coffee like she was drinking tea.
"Those old farts can stuff it. Obviously its a sign of change. Lets hope she does something about Fenrir's bad attitude," Landra snorted, ripping off a bit of cheese.
Iris laughed, "And here I thought Jade was helping to turn him around." [Wish_Alley]

Astalis had fallen asleep sometime ago in the main chamber. She slept in the back resting and waiting for when it was time to go. She was beautiful a shimmering black as smooth as a worry stone. Her eyes were a beautiful purple that matched Jade's eyes. Astalis let out a screech as she yawned. One eye opened and then the other followed suit. Her eyes fell onto King and Landra. "Has the meeting ended?" Astalis asked as she rose onto her feet and moved towards the two. Jade entered from the hall in the back in time to see Astalis moving towards king and Landra. [lrs928]

"Yes, quite a while ago actually," Landra said finishing off her cup. "We're just waiting for them to finish their meditation."

Landra looked up and caught sight of Jade. She waved with smile, fanning her over. [Wish_Alley]

Jade nuzzled Astalis and smiled at the others. "Oh, hello Iris. I'm sorry I missed you there. I don't know how. I think I'm just a bit spacey lately. I haven't been sleeping well. To be honest I've been so excited about everyone meeting again that I've been up at all hours of the day." She said as she broke away from her grace and manner and hit her head with her fist and stuck her tongue out. "How are you all?" Jade said as she sat down.[lrs928]

Landra chuckled, "Good. Our 'Queen' has her hands full. She's really feeling the pressure, she takes it out on me when things slip up."
"Well its not surprising. You have been the only fire Zi for awhile now," Iris said, offering Jade a cup of coffee. [Wish_Alley]

Jade gladly took the cup of coffee and proceeded to chug the entire thing. She didn't stop or react to the heat but laughed as she finished. "That is so refreshing. It has a great earthy flavor to it with a hint of chocolate. I bet you'll love having Fela to help you out now. Oh, which reminds me. How will we split up the groups this time when we send them to other nations. There is so much to talk about." She said with large hand gestures. For those moments with them she opened up and became child like again. She had been chosen as Zi when she was only six and never went to the abby. Astalis had come to visit her former rider, Jade's mother, and found Jade and were soon bonded. [lrs928]

Landra grew silent for a bit before replying, "I believe I should go to the water nation, and since Alene is watching over the egg, Jun'kei should go to the air nation. Speaking of, where are those two?"
"I'de like to got to the earth nation," Iris said turning to Jade. "Why not send the new boy to the fire nation?" [Wish_Alley]

"Really Iris? That would be great if you came to the earth nation. You can't even imagine how much it has changed." It took Jade a moment before she realized she hadn't seen Alene and Jun'Kei for a while. She stood and moved to the door leading outside and peered outside. Jun'Kei had his finger jutted in Alene's face there seemed to be talking bitterly but too low for Jade to hear. She shut the door slowly. "It seems the two are outside have a tiff. I can't hear what they are saying but their expressions are clearly enraged." Jade said as he slipped back over to the group. "They are always fighting now a days. I know it isn't good. They don't work together nor trust each other." Jade said with a sigh.[lrs928]

The small group fell silent. Everyone knew Alene and Jun'kei disliked one another. It had always been that way. But recently had been more bitter than others. Landra put her cup down, and stood up.

"Well, might as well break them up. I'll send Jun'kei in to discuss his going to the air nation," she said walking away.

King remained where he was, watching her go.

---

Landra sauntered down the steps to the small clearing. Alene was saying something about Jun'kei not helping the nation enough, while Jun'kei was about to say something about Alene being a icy bitch when Landra gave them a smile that could send chills down even Fenrir's spine.

"Now, now, why all the fighting?" she said, her voice dripping with sweetness. "All this negativity isn't good for our young guests going through their trials, so why not break it up, hmmmm?"

"Fine!" The both shouted and turned away from each other. Their faces bore only fury.

Landra would like to knock both their heads in, stubborn idiots who just didn't see it, "Jun'kei. Please go inside and discuss going to the air nation with Iris. I need to speak with Alene alone."

She waited for Jun'kei to leave to before turning to Alene. Landra reached inside her shirt, pulling up a silver chain, with an ice stone on the end. It had grown small, and it was dying. She had only received it 4 months ago.
What most didn't know was that being Zi rider had its consequences. Your element began to erode and take over your body, though you never discussed this with others. It was just a known fact. And in Landra's case, living for so long had been wrecking havoc on her body for centuries now. King knew this, and it was killing him, because he knew their bond was killing her. Landra's body temperature had been steadily rising over the centuries, to the point she took baths in ice, and had to wear ice stones at all times.

"I need another one," was all she said.

---

Fela stood in a dark forest. The trees were black, the sky was red, and she stood in the shallow section of a lake. Smoke drifted everywhere and she was fairly sure there was an erupting volcano in the distance.

"What?" she said out loud.
"Took you long enough, thunder thighs," came a condescending voice.
"E-Excu--- WHY ARE YOU NAKED!?" she yelled whipping around to face Fenrir.

Except he looked like he did in the other dream she had had. Human, but with leathery wings and tail. He had horns sticking out of his head, and had surprisingly light skin. He smirked at her.

"I appear how you want me to appear, chicka. This is the form you see me as when I feel like showing it to you. But only you get to see it," He said, standing proudly.
"O-Oh god, could I imagine you with pants or something!?" she said putting her hands up.
"I would just take them off!!" he cackled.
"Oh my god. Fine, why am I here?" she grumbled looking away from him.
"Because this is where you feel you need to find your link," Fenrir said a little more seriously.
"Link?" Fela said.
"Yeah, guess that isn't something they tell you at that shoddy excuse of a school," Fenrir grumbled. "Your link is what binds you to me. I've already bonded with you, but you need to strengthen that link. Solidify it. Find your strength as a Zi and step into your element. I guess is how you put it."
Fela starred at him, "What? B-But, I didn't even think I would get picked. Let alone by you. I just..."
"Thats what you have to answer, doll," Fenrir said, starring directly at her.
Fela thought she saw compassion in his eyes, just for a second before he turned away, "Too bad you have to do it yourself."
"Hmmm, well okay then," She said and started trudging forward into the lake.
"Wait? What?" he said. "Where are you going!?"
"To find my link. I suppose that volcano is as good a starting point as any," she said weighing through the lake.
"W-Wait, but---," he began to say, when she suddenly fell underneath the water.

He stood in shocked silence for all of half a minute before she popped back up.

"I'm OKAY!" she cried happily and continued forward.
Guess I've really lost my touch in picking partners... Fenrir thought distressed and he silently followed her. [Wish_Alley]

Alene shot Landra a dark look. "How fast are you going to go through these? I don't think it will help for much longer. Do you have any other plans after these become useless?" Alene said as she took the necklace. "Your lucky I had planned for you needing a new one. I was hoping it wasn't completely gone but here you go." Alene said as she pulled out another ice crystal. "At the rate your body is rising, Landra, you won't make it for much longer. The others depend on you. You need to find something else to help or train another to become the leader." She said with a sigh. [lrs928]

Landra gave a weak smile. She knew the reality of her situation. She had known it for years. She was dying. It was slow, and gradual, but the Zi warriors weren't meant to have lived this long, but her she was, having out lasted all before her. She didn't know what she was going to do, because...
Without warning she took Alene's hand and showed her a weakness she never showed anyone. Fear. She didn't know what she was going to do when the stones stopped working. She didn't want to die, or leave them, she was still needed and knowing how she was going to handle any of this, was killing her.

"I'm coming to the water nation for the swap. I can figure it out then," she said releasing Alene'a hand and walking away.

"Take care of the egg,"{ she said with a wave of the hand as she went inside the temple.

---

Fela wasn't sure how they got there, but they were at the base of the volcano. Ash fell around them as she slowly climbed up the steep slope. Jagged rocks cut in to her feet and ankles, but she kept going. Fenrir watched all this with unfazed eyes. She reached the top of the volcano's opening. Heat radiated upward, as she learned forward to peek inside. Suddenly she lost her footing and vaulted forward into the the volcano's burning center. Fenrir flew forward, screaming to save her, but it was too late as he body burned in the lava...

---

Fenrir awoke with a start, jolting awake he looked around frantically. He was back in the bath chamber, except there was no water in the pool, no flames in the torches, or incense, and no Fela. Instead an old woman with long silvery hair sat in the pool, cross legged. She wore the robes of a fire nation priestess, and wore a black blind fold over her eyes. She seemed to know the dragon noticed her because her head slowly rose and she smiled at him.

"Verna," growled Fenrir.
"Been a while," she said in a friendly voice.
"What are you doing here you old hag!?" snapped Fenrir.
"Is that anyway to talk to your old friend?" Verna said, feigning being hurt.
"Friend my ass, hag, now answer my question!" He snarled.
"Well isn't it obvious? She's not the one who needs to strengthen the link. Its you. You don'/t trust her. Or should I say... You don't trust yourself," she said starring at him.
"What business is it of your's!?" Fenrir roared.
"How many have to die before you tell them? Its not a coincidence, you know this now. And you care for that girl, whether you're willing to admit it or not," Verna said, her smile seeming to grow contorted and skewed.

Her body was growing bigger and her hair seemed to be snaking its way outward. She was laughing, as her body grew haggard and black.

"You care for her, fear for her, are scared for her. Cause you know we wish to devour her. Her supple body, that innocent mind, and her bright soul. We wish to snuff it out with the darkness that eats away at you. You can't resist us much longer. You can only go through so many partners, they can only shield you for so long," the creature no longer looked like Verna.

Its mouth had grown jagged. It loomed over Fenrir laughing, as darkness ate his surroundings. Fenrir closed his eyes backing away, shaking his head to scare away the demons. He snarled and snapped as he felt the darkness close around him.

"Shut up, be quiet, go away," he chanted. "SILENCE!"

---

Fenrir awoke with a start, but this time he knew he was awake for real. The incense, and torches, and red brick pillars, and the sound of water and serenity was back. He was breathing hard, his whole body tense. It always started her... The bad dreams. Now they could even touch him in this place?
He looked over expecting top see Fela meditating in the pool, but she wasn't in the center. Instead she had crawled towards him and now laid with her head next to him. She was still in the water, but it in was maybe a half inch around her. She looked peaceful, still breathing like she should, but he knew she was sleeping. But rather than waking her he just watched her for a few minutes. [Wish_Alley]

Alene nodded as she grabbed the egg that she had set in the snow. "Fair well Landra and good luck, because your going to need it." She said the last bit in a whisper. Alene looked to Fronull. A dark smile spread across her face as she clutched the egg and mounted the ice dragon. "I've set it in motion my love. It won't be much longer. We will bring about our revenge on the world but we'll need the Earth Nation to help us. It shouldn't be hard. The Emperor is so easy to control." Alene said to Fronull as they communicated with out spoken words. Fronull seemed to smirk as the took of into the air.[lrs928]

Landra stood in the doorway of the temple as she watched Alene leave. She looked at the crystal on the chain. Sometimes she wondered if it was worth it... She slipped it back under her shirt and wandered back into the temple, where Iris seemed to be reading Jun'kei the riot act about coming to the air nation.
The air nation emperor was still just a child, only 9. Iris was one of those charged with his education and safety and she treated him like her own child. She didn't want any outside influences corrupting her baby it seemed. Landra leaned in the doorway and watched them. Jun'kei was baffled as to why Iris thought he was a bad influence. Jade was laughing hysterically pointing out times that justified Iris' claims. Iris just nodded as Jun'kei tried to defend himself and Jade continued to laugh. Landra leaned against the cool side of the doorway, just watching them with a calm face.
Most couldn't tell but she was burning up. Even with the stone it did nothing. She felt a presence behind her and then there was a gentle push on her back. King leaned there for a bit, just resting his head against her back.

"Why not join them?" he whispered in her mind.
"Because then I wouldn't be able to remember this. Just this," she said calmly.
He fell silent, and just leaned against her.

---

"Wake up," came a rough voice.

Fela's eyes scrunched shut at the voice and she curled further into herself. She was sleeping so soundly. Meditation had never done much for her. She just tended to fall asleep. This chamber was so warm, and the water smelled nice with the incense. Plus Fenrir seemed restless,muttering in his sleep. But she had given it a try.

"Hey thunder thighs, wake up!" snapped the voice again.

She shot up whipped around so fast the wet part of her hair whipped around and slapped onto her face. She sat in silence for a few seconds before grumbling and flipping it out of her face. She looked up at Fenrir and smiled. He sighed and flicked his tail.

"Get up, stupid," he muttered, and walked away to the double doors.
"But I'm---," she tried to say.
"Yeah, yeah, powder puff. Don't worry, I'm not looking, neither is anyone else. Trust me if you live long enough you will see each of them naked and there isn't much to see," he said as and dripping Fela followed.

The doors opened by themselves and Fela peeked out. To her surprise there was towel and clothes sitting in front of the door. She dried off with the towel and put on the light grey tight, white tunic, and white flats, and went back to the temple room. She could still feel the torn skin from her wounds, but she felt much better and clearer than when she had arrived. She glanced at Fenrir, and it seemed he was in a slightly better mood too.
As they walked down the hall she heard a noise a head as saw Arbor. His now white hair was wind swept, but he seemed pleased. His eyes brightened when he saw her. She smiled and ran to him. They hugged, Arbor being careful of her wound and walked together, chatting about their meditation as they entered the enter temple hall. [Wish_Alley]

[HALLO I IS PLACE MARKER]

Calin took a deep breath as he moved into the main part of the temple. Amond was behind him chuckeling. To say they had been meditating was a lie. They had ended up laughing and slinging mud everywhere as they just talked. Calin had started to attempt to meditate but Amond called him on not doing things right. Soon Calin had found himself spilling about his truancy in school. Admond didn't care he wasn't about rules and being rigid but being free to grow and enjoy life.

Jun'kei looked to Calin as he came in. "Tell them I'm responsible man! I mean you're way more of a goof off than I am. I mean I know I'm a beach kid but come on!" Jun'Kei pleaded with Calin.

Calin burst into laughter. "Well you are better than I am but that doesn't mean your not a bum!" Calin exclaimed.

Jade smiled and gave a wink at Calin before she turned and looked back. She gave a simple wave at Landra. "Come join us before we must all leave for home. My father is expecting me by sunrise." Jade called out sweetly.[lrs928]

Landra smiled. There was no point on dwelling on it now. She would worry about it when the time came. For now she was just going to enjoy her life. What little of it may be left...
She sauntered down and sat down next to Jade, with King following closely behind. Arbor and Fela entered just as Calin was jokingly berating Jun-kei. Fela laughed as Arbor sat down next to Iris, and Fela took a seat next to Landra. They continued poking fun at Jun'kei for the next twenty minutes as they finished off the snacks and coffee.
Fela looked around at the laughing group and realized something. She finally belonged. She had only ever 'been there' at the abbey. She was never really noticed, or had many friends. Teachers found her to be so so in academics, and no one had truly expected her to be picked, despite being blessed by Zi. But here she felt like one. Even Fenrir in his own way had made her feel welcome and she beamed with joy.

"Well I guess its about time," Landra said standing up.

Arbor helped Iris to her feet. They began saying their goodbyes, hugging and giving well wishes. Iris was the first to depart. Arbor watched her eave before turning to Fela. It hadn't occurred to him before that moment that he would be leaving her. She smiled at him seeing his realization.

"I'll write. I'll come visit," he said quickly.
Fela shook her head, "You can't. You have to stay in the air nation."
"But--," he began to say until she hugged him.
"Its fine, we'll see each other again. Theres the Treaty festival coming up. Don't worry," she said squeezing him tight, she let go and looked up at him.
"Yeah, I'll be going then," he said gently, and he and Nemfus left the temple.
"Well," Landra said stretching. "I'll be waiting outside."

She gave a last wave to everything as she and King left. Fela saw Jade about to leave and stopped her. She stood awkwardly for a bit before finally blurting out.

"I'm sorry," she said bowing. "For my reaction earlier. It was uncalled for a rude, and I wanted to apologize."

Fela through out her right hand to shake Jade's left. [Wish_Alley]

Jade smile softly and then pulled Fela closer. She wrapped her arms around Fela and held her tight for a minute. "It's alright, I shouldn't be surprised it is only a normal reaction. I'm just little touchy sometimes. I hope you have a good time going home. Has it been long since you were last in the fire lands?" Jade asked.

Calin moved to Jade. He would leave with her. He frankly couldn't remember the way to his old home. Where was it at. Calin was horrible at direction and so much of the Nation of Earth was the same. Cookie cutter houses were common and loved. He used to run around playing with friends and get lost trying to get home as a kid. Maybe Jade could direct him home. "Oh, you must be leaving, Fela. Well, safe journey home and all." Calin said nonchalantly. [lrs928]

Fela let Jade hug her, and silently hugged her back, It was weird being hugged by another girl. Women never seemed to notice her, and her only friend had been Arbor. It was nice and she squeezed Jade tighter before finally they let go. She was smiling but her face fell a little at the question of returning 'Home.'

"Uh, yeah. It has been awhile," she said skirting the subject a little.

It wasn't a lie. She hadn't been home since being discovered as being blessed by Zi. But that didn't mean she was necessarily excited about going home. She had lived in an orphanage since she was little. She didn't know who her parents were, but the care taker of the orphanage had laughed at her, saying she was the daughter of a whore. Fela had believed for a long time she was nothing special and that one day her life would continue as uneventfully as her childhood. That was until the day her blessing had appeared. She had never felt so happy as when the day came the Zi officials arrived to confirm her Mark of Zi and take her to the Abbey. But where would she be returning too.

Her head snapped up when Calin spoke to her, "Oh, yes, I will. You two as well!"

She gave a wave to them as exited the temple. Fenrir was already outside. He was silent as Landra instructed her how to get on and off, and soon they left. [Wish_Alley]

Jade waved goodbye to Fela and turned to Calin. "It is time to go. The king is waiting for our presence at the palace. Though, I'll miss being here. The fellowship here is so comforting and fun. At home gets a bit boring and well I have many brothers. My father used to have man relationships with women until he met my mother." She said as Astalis and Amond approached them.[lrs928]

The ride home was unadventurous. Despite not having ever ridden a dragon Fela did fine, at least she thinks she did. Fenrir was calm, and quiet, which made the ride easier. Instead Fela focused on watching Landra and King. They really were pros, they way they glided through the air like water. The sun had turned the sky orange as the descended upon the capital city of the fire nation.
The capital city flourished. There was little lack of food, or crime. It's people lived happily. It was nestled in valley of bright orange-red rock. Trees with black bark and red leaves were spotted everywhere, they were pretty common in the capital. Everything was bathed in the red light of the setting sun and it always brought tears to Fela's eyes. Where she grew up, there had never been such beauty. The crowning achievement of the capital was the Empress's palace. It was built higher up in the valley, above the city, and as they became level with it in the sky, it glowed the setting sun behind it.
Fela was in awe, so much so she missed Fenrir banking after King and nearly fell off. She grabbed hold of his scales and held on tight, the ridges cutting into her hands some. They landed in a court yard shrouded in shadow, everything looked dark blue with the gold yellow above the wall. She slid off nursing her hands.

"Stupid thunder thighs should have paid attention," Fenrir muttered in her mind.
"Stupid dragon should have warned me," Fela said a little louder than she meant to.
"Hush," Landra said, almost as an order.
Fela fell silent as she realized her voice echoed through the dark caverns of the castles before them.
"You must be quiet. You're still not recognized as a knight of this nation, and you don't want to upset the officials that work here. trust me, its not a good way to begin you duties," Landra said softly.
"S-Sorry," Fela whispered in a small voice.
"Come on, lets go get you some clothes and a room," Landra said and led the way through the rather large wooden screens into the castle.
Fela didn 't follow immediately and said in a timid voice, "I thought I would be going home?"
Landra looked back at her, confused, "Your home was an orphanage before you went to the abbey right? Why would you go back there?"
Fela was speechless and before she could help herself, tears fell at the corner of her eyes.
"H-Hey," Landra said.
"No! No, I'm fine. Uh, lets go get those clothes, she said with a laugh coming forward and entering her new home.

They didn't meet anyone on their way into the castle. Fela asked why, and Landra simply replied, "Because you're not welcomed here yet." Fela became quiet after that, it had killed her happy feeling of coming home. Landra fetched her some clothes, towels, and night wear, and led her to a big room. She let Fela and Fenrir inside and disappeared to go get some food. Fela took bath by herself, happy to have some privacy, and when she came out she food a tray of food with a note.

Head to bed early. There will be a ceremony tomorrow, and then we can begin you training. Enjoy the food, Landra.

Fela ate, browsing the room. It wasn't anything spectacular. Big. Nice balcony. Billowing sheer curtains that let her see the moon. And a big bed. She finished off the food, glad Fenrir had remained silent during this time. Blew out of the candles, and laid down. Excited for what tomorrow would bring, she knew her life had changed today, and drifted off to sleep. [Wish_Alley]

Jade and Calin traveled through the forest for what seemed to be almost a day. He hadn't know it was so far away from home. Home, he had missed it more than anything in the world. He missed getting lost in the city and seeing his family. The family meals were always filled with laughter. The city was set on a large hill. Placed on the top was the palace over looking the great city of Agiha. The homes and shops below the palace were cookie cutter replicas. Cherry wood homes with pale yellow and green decor. This city was busy. People bustled around between the buildings dressed in robes of various statures. Jade signaled for Calin to follow as she headed for the palace.

As Calin moved through the city he passed by a home that had flowers hanging in pots by the door. Violets, they were his mother's favorite. He knew then it was his home.[lrs928]