Drakonis

Dragons

"King Draven wants you all to join his kids in training," Father pushed that morning as we gathered in our quarters. "Since we'll be here a while, there is much you all need to learn to survive." We all nodded, understanding the gravity of his words.

Mother had a saddened expression, her reluctance clear. "Just be safe and follow directions. Uhroh and Loran, watch over your siblings. Ashely, keep the boys in check," she began, her voice wavering slightly.

"Yes, Mother," we all chorused, trying to inject some humor into the moment. Our attempts worked as she smiled faintly.

"I'm just worried, okay," she said, her eyes softening. We nodded, giving her a group hug before heading out to join the others.

As we walked to the training grounds, the air was filled with a mix of anticipation and nervousness. The Drakonis warriors were already gathered, their presence commanding respect. They were clad in leather armor adorned with dragon scales, their weapons gleaming in the morning light.

Theron met us at the entrance, his smile reassuring. "Good morning. Are you ready for your first day of training?"

"As ready as we'll ever be," Uhroh said, grinning.

"Excellent," Theron replied. "Today's training will cover the basics of dragon riding and combat techniques. You'll be paired with mentors who will guide you through the process."

We were introduced to our mentors, seasoned warriors with years of experience. "Since you all are different ages, I've decided to put Olympia and Eli with the younger group. The rest will train with the king's children," Theron said, leading my younger siblings away.

It was now just Nymara, Nestor, and another male. They all seemed strong and seasoned as we stood quietly. Nymara held a bright smile as she stepped forward. "We're happy you all are here! My brother and I will help you, and this is Kairos," she introduced the man who was extremely tall and buff.

"He is one of the youngest but best warriors of my class," she smiled.

"Nice to meet you all," he smirked. "Riding a dragon is like a rite of passage here... you all won't get your own for a while, but we can teach you the basics," he spoke as Ashely nodded, her eyes fixated on the man.

We all got paired: Nestor with Ashley, Kairos with Uhroh, and Nymara was assigned to me. I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nerves. My palms were sweaty, and I hoped no one would notice how tightly I was gripping my sword hilt.

As Nymara guided me to a dragon named Seraphis, she seemed to sense my unease. "Don't worry," she said softly, her smile reassuring. "Everyone feels nervous their first time. Just remember to be confident and calm. The dragons can sense your emotions."

I nodded, trying to steady my racing heart. "Thanks, Nymara. I'll do my best."

Seraphis was a magnificent creature, her scales shimmering in the sunlight. She eyed me with curiosity, and I took a deep breath before extending my hand. The dragon sniffed it, then nudged me gently, her warm breath washing over my skin.

"Good," Nymara said, her voice encouraging. "Now, let's get you mounted."

With her help, I climbed onto Seraphis' back, my hands trembling slightly. The dragon's powerful muscles shifted beneath me, and I felt a rush of adrenaline. Nymara mounted her own dragon, and together we took to the skies.

The sensation of flying was both exhilarating and terrifying. The ground fell away, and the wind whipped past us. I gripped the reins tightly, my knuckles white. Nymara flew beside me, her dragon moving with effortless grace.