Dragon's Blood

Chapter Six

Akari?

Akari frowned. She was used to hearing her father's voice in darkness, but this one was smaller, quieter. It didn't boom through her entire being the way Sivath's did.

Akari, please be okay. It's me, Albertine.

Albertine? Sure enough, the telltale pink of the dragon's link floated into her vision. A small but persistent strand, poking at her orb of energy, which had reverted to its original, unlinked form.

I'm not good with words, but...I'm really worried about you. If all you need is a link with another dragon, then I'll do it. Just please...

His voice pleaded with her, and Akari strained to reach out towards him. It felt as though she were underwater, and her movements were sluggish as though she had been asleep for a very long time.

Albertine...he was trying to help her. She remembered linking with Sanguis, and directed her green strand towards his. It brightened in recognition, and she could feel the concern emanating from it.

Akari! Please link with me! I want to help you.

Her strand wrapped around his, accepting of his aid. His concern became relief now, and the pink lights flickered excitedly.

I'm going to help you find your father. Albertine promised. Just like the others. I want you to meet him. I know he'll take good care of you. Just like Tetra!

Thank you, Albertine, she wanted to tell him, but her vocal cords were frozen. Even so, she was sure he could feel the warmth in her link.

You're going to be okay now, Akari. Just rest.

She was happy to oblige, and the colors faded along with her consciousness.

"Is it done?" Apple asked nervously, and Albertine nodded at him.

"Way to go, Teeny!" Delph sighed. "Even I was starting to worry, her life span was decreasing a little too quickly for my liking."

"Be sure to leave that detail out when she wakes up." Tetra instructed him.

"When will that be, exactly?" Delia wrung her hands. "She's been asleep for quite some time now."

"She'll wake up when she wakes up. Now that she's got a link, recovery will be a lot quicker." Tetra stood and stretched.

"Let's leave her to rest, Apple." Delia gently pulled the wyvern along, and Delph followed them. "Are you coming too, Teeny?"

Albertine looked back at her, then patted Akari's hand. He turned back to Delia and smiled, then followed her out of the room.

When Akari woke, the room was dark. She was alone, but could feel a familial presence in the other room.

"Albertine...?" She called out quietly, and he rushed in a few seconds later. He pressed a finger to his lips, gesturing for her to keep quiet, and then ran to her.

"So that wasn't a dream," She smiled at him. "You saved me."

He grinned and wrapped his arms around her waist in a hug.

"Now we're linked." He told her, his voice muffled by her clothing. Akari returned the hug.

"Now we're linked." She replied.

They entered the next room over, and Akari realized they were still in the checkpoint village. They were lucky the dragon hunters hadn't decided to check this place yet. Tetra and the others lay sleeping on the couches and floor, and Akari had to chuckle at their peaceful faces. It was a welcome change to the constant worry and fear.