BACK to the hatching

Khauduk and Isilath prowled around Ryslen looking for a quiet place that she could teach him about the Healing Den. Unfortunately, it was about this time that several flights were going on overhead.

What are they doing Dukky?

They're... well they're certainly having fun, aren't they? Khauduk gazed into the sky and wondered whether Isilath would want to pair up with her when he was old enough.

It does look like fun! I'm going to join them!

No! Khauduk insisted, and her purple-blue-white bond froze in his tracks. I ... I mean, no, you're really not old enough yet. You don't have the stamina they do. See how far up the queen is going? She'll stay up there for hours.

But Isilath wasn't fooled. You don't want me to fly with them, you want me to wait for you. He nuzzled up against his bond. I will wait.

Khauduk watched the delicate white silver wingsails of her bond as he spread them in the half-light of the Healing Den's flight chamber.

You've become very handsome, Isilath, she told him.

And I told you I'd wait. You do not want a frenzy, like the others here. But... Should I practice first?

Khauduk looked around, seeing sleepy headed local dragons and some scattered visitors.

No, I think that when I rise next you and I should go somewhere quiet. I trust you'll be able to keep up with me.

Isilath gave off a pleased croon. He was still a boy at heart.