Riley Tobias Harris's Story

"A hero is born among a hundred, a wise man is found among a thousand. Today our goal is not to find a hero. But a wise young man or woman that will be coming into this school." Spoke the wise dragon by the name of Draconem. He was the headmaster of a school that gave it's students magical creatures as companions. When first becoming the headmaster, he thought the "companions" were treated as pets, but he found now that they become the best friends and the consciences of many students. Today was the first day. The first day for these students in the life of being a Ryder. Most of the students are of wizard or witch decent. Though, Draconem prefers wizards over witches in the since of the magic type they use. Wizards use the good magic. While witches use dark magic.

Coming out of his resting place that's stationed directly above the school, Drconem greeted some of the students where they returned with a scream. Dragons, in some places, were feared for they were the great rulers in those days. Every king had a dragon telling him what to do. And if a place didn't have a king, they had a ruler. A dragon ruler. A dragons home was among the people in these days. Yet some of the older dragons from centuries before stilled lived in giant caves in giant mountains with there goblin minions. Goblins. Drconem hadn't seen a goblin in two centuries. He had had a group of goblins to himself once, but then, before he was the infamous destroyer of worlds, a dragon by the name of Diablo robbed them all of their lives.

The dragon Diablo. What a vicious dragon he is. He was the companion of the great leader Diablo that all the Ryders are vigorously fighting as he continues to take up part of Cree. Diablo used to be such a good Ryder. Diablo the Ryders name used to be Diabolus. What an agent word that was. Draconem remembered what it meant though. It meant devil in an new yet old langue known as Latin. Cruel as he was, Draconem saw him always as the Ryder he was. Draconem himself was the one to foretell the fall of Diabolus and the raise of an evil Ryder to be known as Diablo with his evil dragon companion that bared the same name.

Draconem put this all out of his head as he entered the stadium. Draconem was so large that his body curled up like a snake in the middle of the stadium. His body and head reaching up into the air. He looked around the stadium at the students. Most of them were nervous or afraid of how large he was. Draconem wouldn't be one to brag, but he was one of the largest and oldest dragons the inhabited Cree. His eyes glowed a smoky bright green as they seemed to have smoke flowing from them. The hair that surrounded his head and part of his neck like a lions swayed in the breeze as he turned himself around and around to face the crowds in different areas of the stadium. Once everyone was seated, he spoke. His voice was old and loud, causing everyone to stop what they were doing and listen. "Welcome, future Ryders, to Ryder Academy! I bet most of you are wondering when you will be greeted by your companions? Well! You'll have to go find them first!" Draco interrupted his own speech by the sound of his ever to loud laughter at the few gasps and moans he heard from the crowd as they realized they were going to need to go out and find there companions.

"Here's what you must do when finding your companions!" Draconem continued, his voice becoming serious and unjoking. "When getting a companion, there is two things you can do. One! You can grab an egg, but you need to realize it could just be a chicken or a bird then you'll have to go out there again! Or two! You could grab a baby! Fairies are located in the forest in tree houses! They're already small beings, so a baby fairy will be extremely small! Smaller than an inch! Unicorns are located in the fields! You'll know it's a baby unicorn if it's laying on the ground and it's eyes are closed! Dragons must be taken while in there eggs! You need to be tricky with these because dragon mothers are very vicious and will come after you if it see's you take her egg! Does everybody understand?" Draconem said in a loud, clear voice to everyone. After receiving nods from everyone, Draconem nodded himself. "Okay! I release you into the companion room to find your companion! Choose wisely where it is you are to go! Once you are done, comeback here and bring your companion to me so I may give you it's name and gender! This goes for everyone including those who choose eggs to make sure you don't have a chicken!" Daconem laughed as he opened two large doors into a large enclosed room that had mountians and forest in the distances. There were dragons and unicorns everywhere, you could see the light of tiny fairies in the background near the forest. It was quite a sight.

And I'm still here.
Toby kicked a stone in the enclosed room,hard,and looked around at the foliage in the forest, noticing the leaves budded with little drops of water. He noticed some fairies flying around in a state of busy and joyful activity, but it only made him slump his shoulders more.
Here he was, having pillaged through the grasses, some swamps, and the trees, and he still hadn't found a companion.
He had watched with great dismay as student after student had happily left with their newfound companion, talking to them eagerly and returning to the stadium.
God!
Riley kicked the nearest tree with all his strength, and heard the little fairy babies scream and fly out from the tree houses.
Could he do nothing right?!
He reached into his pocket and pulled out three pieces of gum, and chewed them furiously.

When he first got to the stadium, he'd been kind of late. Draconem was in the middle of his long ass speech, and when he passed the huge dragon, he hadn't noticed him, which he didn't mind since there were hoards of people. His grandmother, though, was like BFF's with him, because they went way back.
He totally knew he wanted a dragon, though. He'd seen them everywhere and they were just awesome, like breathing fire and shit all over the place!
So that's what he wanted.
A fire dragon.
He had first approached a mother with two eggs, but she was quick to shoot him down. It's like, she could sense his temper brewing as she asked him a series of questions. In his mind of course. Riley thought it was wicked cool dragons could do that.
Hello.
"Uh...hey."
What is it that you seek?
"Well....I was kinda hoping you could give me one of your babies. You know. If that's cool with you."
And why do you want one of my eggs?
"Well, I'm a Ryder so.... I'd really like one for a companion."
Are you very sure you want one of my eggs?
"Yes, I'm sure!", he had snapped. Whoops.
I'm sorry, I'm afraid I can't do that. I don't think it'd be very healthy for you to have an Ignis dragon. I'm sorry.
He had stomped away, running a hand over his face. Well, it couldn't be over.
He went from dragon nest to dragon nest, but the questions just wore his limited patience thinner and thinner.
He had looked for a stray one, among marshes and fields, but nothing approached him.
He'd gone in the little nooks and crannies of the place, wanting to spot a bit of scales, or something, anything!!!!

And now here he was, in the stupid ass fairy forest, looking at the stupid ass little fairies, wanting to just murder every stupid ass one!!
He punched a tree with his fist, and got a cut on his knuckle.
Just brilliant.
He stomped along the trails, and leaned back against a tree. As he looked off to the right, he saw a sliver of something.
But just like that, it was gone.
He stepped into the trees that wasn't occupied by fairies anymore.
He took another step closer. And another.
There it was again!
He ran towards it, and then again it disappeared as he reached a very small cave on rim of the enclosed room.
He sat down to the opening of the cave.
I'm going crazy. I'm just seeing things now. But if anyone could just give me a chance I'd...!
He put his head between his knees and his hands over his head, and screamed.
"UGH!!!!!!!!!

Then, he felt a whooshing, cold sensation on his back. He abruptly sat up, and ran his hands over the back of his neck. It was icy cold, and he chipped at the ice in back of him.
Ha,ha I think you're getting a little too frustrated there.
He saw a sleek dragon come down from the top of the cave.
He sucked in a breath.
The dragon waved his little tail around, and Toby looked at the little piece of white scale he'd been chasing.
Looking for this? Ha,ha!
"Maybe." Riley had calmed down considerably since the dragon had slew ice all over him.
Why are you so angry?
"Well, I'm looking for a companion and no one seems interested." Riley hated admitting this to himself, and looked down at his hands.
On the contrary, I'm very interested.
Riley looked up, wide-eyed. "Seriously?"
I'm up for it if you are.
"Hell yeah I'm up for it! Let's go!"
The Glacies dragon crawled up Riley's shoulders, and around his neck.
"Very cool." he commented
Literally, the dragon responded.
"I'm Riley, what's your name?", Riley asked as they walked back.
Razeth.
"Aw man, Razeth's an awesome name! Like totally shredding things with your teeth and stuff!"
Trust me, I won't be..shredding..things with my teeth.
"Aw,man." Riley grinned. He seemed in a much better mood all of a sudden. Maybe it was because he was way cooler than before.

As they entered the stadium, it was packed. Riley looked around again, even though he hadn't seen her before.
But the one person he knew....
"Colette!"
Riley smiled as he approached her. He noticed some chick, her hand on Colette's shoulder.
Man, that must be uncomfortable for her.
Colette was one of his first tutors, and, now that his others tutors had retired or had seeked greener pastures,she was his only tutor. Which he really didn't mind, because she was the only one who wasn't afraid or didn't put up with his antics.
He took a seat next to her.
Colette, who was looking a little nervous, suddenly relaxed and smiled at him. "Haven't seen you in a few weeks."
"Well, I was killing bad guys and stuff. The usual."
She laughed a bit, and he reached to put his arm across her shoulders. Nothing he hadn't done before, and completely platonic anyway, especially when Colette kept the notebook completely on her side when they studied. It had gotten annoying, so the best position to view it together had been that.He was sure she was so thrown off by the chick with the black hair, so, really, he was doing her a solid.
He pointed to Razeth, and grinned wide. "Totally cool,right?"
"Right." she laughed.
She pointed to the girl next to her, and introduced her. "This is my new friend, Ash." She had sounded a bit hesitant when she said this. Probably didn't know if she could call her her friend.
He nodded to her in greeting. "Hi Ash, my name is Riley."

When Ash shrugged to her question, Colette made an impatient face. She always wanted to know what was happening,when it was happening, and why.
"Well", she commented, "I guess the headmaster will come back and speak to us. After that, though, it could be anyone's guess."
"You know you're very pretty."
Colette was caught off guard. What.
She nervously twirled a piece of hair between her fingers, and then wrung her hands.
Stop looking so awkward, Colette, and just thank her.
"Um.. thank you. You're very pretty as well."
When did the topic stray from academics?!
Then, she watched as Ash reached up and grazed her shoulder.
Colette became completely frozen, stone hard under Ash's hand.
"Eh...." They were strangers!
Where's Quinn?!
As if she could read her mind, Quinn flew up to Colette ear and whispered so only she could hear, "She is trying to make known she is attracted to you."
Oh.
My.
God.

"Uh......", she said stunned.
Suddenly, she heard a shout.
"Colette!"
She looked up to the familiar voice.
Riley Tobias Harris.
She smiled up at him, his eyes looking as blue as ever, and he was obviously content. Which alone was a reason to heave a sigh of relief. "Haven't seen you in a few weeks."
They made light conversation while he sat down, and he put his arm over her shoulders, completely cutting Ash off.
Colette did not know how she felt about this.
I am completely flattered, but I don't even know this girl!
Scenario A: Ash likes me after having just met me and she's trying to make an advance.
C'mon.
She looked down at Quinn, raised an eyebrow subtly, and then looked at Ash.
Scenario B: Ash is just completely comfortable around people she's just met, and didn't think anything of complimenting me, and then putting her hand on my shoulder.
A very likely story. That's what I'm going to go with.

Riley made a few more jokes, and she laughed. She was glad he had found her. She had been very fond of him these last few years tutoring him, and then hanging out with him. They came from the same place, and she was just glad to see a familiar face.
Colette noticed his dragon, with glittering white scales and calm eyes.
Not something Riley would have picked, but something she knew he needed.
She introduced him to Ash, not wanting to seem rude, and he greeted her.
Now she was just waiting for Draconem to get back.

Ash smiled at Colette slightly more awkward than she actually felt and looked up as she heard a guy call Colette's name. He came walking up, sitting beside Colette, and commented on the dragon on his shoulder. Ash had to admit to he was cute, but she was too preoccupied to notice that too much. Ash leaned forward some, placing her arms in her lap as she did so, so she could see around Colette and get a better look at the guy. Her smile that she had worn almost the whole time talking to Colette was now faded and more of a small almost forced smile. She watched and listened as the two interacted and smiled when Colette, though hesitant, introduced her as she new friend. More than that is what I'd like to hear. Ash thought, then the thought was completely invaded by Liath as he crawled onto her back and his head slinked up to the side of her head. Right, because you're a fucking creeper and she'd call you more than that after just meeting her. Liath thought to Ash in a very sarcastic way, a big grin (though it was a rather creepy one) forming on his face. "Hi." Ash said to Riley after she shot Liath a look of annoyance.

Before Ash had anything else to say, she was interrupted by the sound of yet more gasps and small screams from the crowd as the huge dragon had returned from his hitch above the school. He came down from the wall, slinking right back to how he was for his first big speech, and looking at everyone as it had grown ever so quiet. Everyone was on the edge of their seats, waiting for him to begin his speech that was most likely going to become a rather long one. Once everyone was quiet, Draconem flew swiftly into the large enclosure, despite the fact he had no wings. Ash guessed aloud that he must be looking to make sure everyone was out and in the stadium. In the enclosure, Draconem was pleased to see that he'd only have to pick up a handful of students and bring them back to the stadium as everyone else was there already. Settling back to into his central spot, Draconem eyed the crowd of new riders. He looked up to the sky to see Degore, the school Gargoyle, and the Great Gryphon who's name has been lost over time. He gave them a bow with his head and turned back the students as he began his speech.

"Today, you entered this academy with nothing. The only thing you had was the title of descendent of a wizard. Descendent of a farmer. Descendent of a baker, a fisher, a sailor. A select few of you may even be a descendent of a Ryder. Today, you came here alone looking for someone that will stay by your side 'til the end of your days. And today, you'll all be leaving and going to your dorms with a life partner. A life friend. A life companion. With you, your companion will grow. And with your companion, you will grow. But, let me explain. When you die, your companion will die. When you hurt, your companion will hurt. The bond between you and your companion is strong. You all may not know it, but from the moment you entered that enclosure, your soul and the soul of the companion were pulling toward each other. You and your companion are bonded for life. You will never get a chance for another companion. You are to protect each other with all your lives. And now, with my powers, I bestow the gift of wisdom onto the companions so they may help you make the right choices as you begin your lives as Ryders!"

Draconem said with a large grin, as he laughed his hearty laugh as the crowd cheered at his words. Ash clapped with a large smile on her face at the giant dragons words. Draconem had such a way to make people feel confident. He could tell with his foretelling insight that there, among him in the crowd, there was a group of young people to become great Ryders one day. Yet, he could also tell that some of these Ryder's were not destined for greatness, but destined to trade sides over to Diablo. But, putting that out of mind, Draconem cut his speech short so he could go take care of business with Degore and the Great Gryphon. "Since I know you all probably want to talk, I shall give you this rest period while I attend some business." And with that, he was gone, flying up into the air and disappearing with his two other flying friends.

A sigh escaped Trista. Not a troubled sigh, but a sigh of pure relief. She was finally here, Ryder Academy. A place where she could breath, be happy, be herself, and most importantly be with her companion Fucuello, her pride and joy since she was seven. It had been awkward coming into the stadium with a companion, and not a new companion either. Fucuello was a full grown black unicorn, tall like her and with big peacock feathers in place of his main, tail, and anywhere else he was supposed to have hair. He wasn't all black either, his underbelly was a burnt orange and there were even darker marks under his eyes. His horn was curved and glowed slightly with its magic. Ugh! The looks they both got were the worst. Don't people know how rude staring is! It's not like she had come in super lat or anything, Draconem had only just started speaking when they arrived. In the end she had turned a blind eye to it and chose a seat in the front row to wait for the speech of the dragon's speech to be done. Whose size had awed her, and she had seen big dragons before, heck she grew up with one! Bach, her father's Terra dragon, would be friggen dwarfed by the headmaster. Trista's ears paid no head to the speech, it wasn't anything relevant to her and besides, she had drilled her dad about everything before she left. No she just stared up at the ginormous freaking dragon trying to wrap her head around his size, his voice, and just how old he probably was till the commotion his final address caused sprung her from her thoughts.

Woah Trista peered around the stadium, which now suffered from a growing chasm of silence. Only a few nervous or lazy slackers stuck around, well except her of course…and the dragon. Would he ask her how she had a companion before everyone else? Would he have a problem with it? The raven haired girl craned her head back to see the dragon staring of, over the walls of the stadium into the enclosure where everyone else had to go out in the muck and find a companion. Another, even more content sigh blew from her lips. But not me she thought with a smile as she began to absentmindedly stroke Fucuello's flank.

"Isn't it great? We're finally away?" She took in a deep breath and let it out slowly. "I can finally breath"

It was awhile before the excitement began to come back. Ryder's stumbled, ran, hollered, strolled, and swaggered back with new baby companions of every shape and form. Already groups of potential friends were beginning to form in slightly spaced clumps, some small, some large. One she noticed early on. First it was two girls, came and sat a few seats down the row from her. One with a Fairy blech and another with a dragon. The group soon grew in size when a boy who could only be described as to hot to be on this earth, joined them with his own dragon. After this a shy and pretty adorable girl joined them with a black unicorn foal of her own, shortly followed by her brother. Hm, not my type but cute all the same she assessed. Lastly was a boy who she could say was very easy on the eyes came wearing his dragon comfortably around his neck like a scarf. He seemed to know the girl with the fairy since he called out her name "Colette!"

By now the stadium's volume was back to what it had been before the speech. Almost everyone was talking to someone but her. What was happening to her!? She used to be the life of the party back home. Was she going to just sit here like some emo and think to herself while everyone else chatted it up and had fun just because she had spent the summer holed up at home with her stupid mother? No, she was free of that now. Trista looked over into Fucuello's eyes, she knew that they both thought the same thing about this. A new start, a fresh blank slate to write on.

With that swelling hope she stood, and stretched her long legs and showing how surprisingly tall she was. "Time to get out of this silent funk huh, Fucuello?" and was about to go over to them when down came the headmaster into the stadium to address them once again. Trista plopped herself back down into her previous seat with a slight pout settle on her lips well that door closed quickly. Again she drowned out the speech. She knew it all already, you and your companion are bonded for life and if you get hurt they get hurt, you die, they die, blah, blah, blah. It was only the last sentence that caught her attention.

"Since I know that you all want to talk, I shall give you this rest period while I attend to some business."

When he was gone, Trista shot out of her seat. Finally! And with a cheery smile she walked back over to the group. "Hi." she said. "I'm Trista."

Fucuello had held his head high when the two walked into the stadium. As awkward as it was, he took pride in already having a human companion and being grown to his peak. Although, that didn’t mean he appreciated or was ok with how everyone was looking at them. He disliked it just as much as Trista, and some people had cut it a little too close with how close they were getting to them. He neighed at some, huffing and stomping his hoofs. He made sure not to over exaggerate and just make it clear. That that was his warning. Don’t get too close to Trista. He didn’t want her hurt the first day; they had just walked in the doors for goodness sakes!

Quickly, they found a seat in the front row and he made himself comfortable. Laying on the floor by her feet with his legs folded into him, he watched the dragon. To only get bored soon after. Don’t get him wrong, he loved the enthusiasm, but he had heard all this before. He could feel Tristas boredom etching its way into his brain. Silently, he laid his head down and waited till Draconem was done.

“Yes…” he replied shortly, “I must agree, it’s nice to…get away,”he admitted. It was a relief to get out of that prison. He did NOT enjoy the way Tristas mother looked at him. She was cruel and unlike any mother Fucuello had seen. What kind of mother would ignore her entire baby’s existence? It was just wrong….

clatter!

He snapped back into reality when he caught sight of his human companion getting fidgety from the corner of his eyes. She was moving about and looking at something or someone. He couldn’t tell. He lifted his head up to peer over the chairs and noticed the group of good-looking kids all socializing. His legs itched. It was obvious…Trista wanted to go talk to them. Laying his head back down, he decided he would wait till she gathered up the courage to go speak to them. At the end of that thought, up she went! And back down again she came before he could even start a new one. Draconem was back and continuing his second half of the speech.

Todays going to be a long day,

He sighed and stared at the overly large dragon, actually paying close attention this time around. He loved this part. How two souls would be forever twined. Forever together. Never alone. Through the dark times, the sad times, the happy times, the angry times, they would be there for one another. Ryders and their companions, to Fucuello, were closer then blood itself.
The clatter of a chair and feet hitting the ground made his ears flinch and once again, come back to reality. Hmm….he was spacing out far too much today.

Get it together Fucuello! Focus on Trista!

Slowly but surely, he got up and stretched. Shaking his head, he practically strutted over to Tristas side. His chest out and posture poise, he took pride in resembling a peacock. He knew he was beautiful. Looking down he noticed a smaller unicorn, which was growing bigger every few minutes. It shocked him a little to see one that resembled so much of a lion. She was big and had more muscle then poise, but he liked that. She was unique. Just like him. And both were black unicorns, which some saw as a curse. He saw it as a blessing.

As Rowan began to consider a special name just for her, she suddenly felt his finger up at her snout, tapping down on it continuously. She just watched it move, rather fascinated, until she blinked and clambered down from his head to curl in his lap, taking advantage of his free arm, and taking his index finger in her mouth to nibble on it, her little paws resting against the back of his hand as she did so. It was an affectionate sort of display, one that wouldn’t be too uncomfortable. "How about Reeps? You like that?” She stopped the act and turned her head to gaze up at him, another sweet smile on her face. ”Yes!”

She then took this time to glance around her, taking in the two girls next to her. Another dragon of her kind, though drastically different from herself, belonged to the creepy touchy one, and a relaxed looking fairy belonged to the uncomfortable one. Reeps tilted her head, blinking a few times and felt towards the outskirts of their minds just to get a feel for them. She snorted lightly, backing up against Rowan’s stomach and forgetting the two once more.

However, before she could start asking questions of her Ryder, another girl interrupted innocently, asking if the seat next to them was taken. Chi immediately left Rowan’s lap to sit on the chair and look up at her with mischievous eyes. “Certainly it is, by me now!” Just as Rowan said by the new girl herself. She merely grinned up at the girl and reached into her mind to laugh good-naturedly. She would have tried to further put the girl at ease, however she just cut in and restated the obvious.

Reeps silently returned to Rowan’s lap, pushing her head into his hand with a small churr and a happy attitude despite being somewhat ignored. "So Reeps, I'd say I'm quite awkward at making friends, wouldn't you agree?" ”No, I wouldn’t think so, just need a little help maybe. Do girls often tend to flock to you?” She looked straight ahead, reaching out towards other people to gather information of her surroundings while she asked.

Her brother then showed up, holding onto a large blue egg as he sat down. He looked nice enough, and a lot more relaxed and easy than his sister, and definitely seemed to like to tease this Aya. She liked him already.

Reeperchi was once more distracted by yet another newcomer, another male with a Glacies wrapped around him rather comfortably. Reeps tilted her head up to Rowan, ”Does the flow never stop coming? She looked slightly flustered by so many new smells and people so close to her and her new Ryder.

And then the Large Ignis dragon appeared, startling Reechi just slightly because of his mass, and having not ever seen him before. Sure, she had some knowledge of him, but coming face to face with the real thing was a lot to take in. He spoke of the bond and relationship between Ryder and Companion, which she took seriously and rather contently, her tail curling around her body as she lounged on Rowan’s lap.

As soon as he was done, another girl shot up and over to them, which received a look-over from Chi. ”Watch out, this one’s trouble with a capital T.” She then focused on another form, her unicorn following after, analyzing the creature fairly subtly.

Angel

"Do girls often tend to flock to you?"
Angel chuckled slightly poking his dragon playfully his his previously nibbled on finger.
Oh, they're only coming over because you're so cute

Angel felt a moment of unease as the girl explained shyly that she was saving the seat for her brother. Hopefully not someone who would get the wrong idea and try to pick a fight with him. It was always hard to even make friends with girls who had over protective siblings, so , even though he was only thinking of friendship, he still hoped the boy wouldn't over reacted when he showed up. Angel wasn't to keen on bloodying someone else on the first day, not to mention he had no idea if his opponent was a fighter or not.
He tried to put those thoughts away in his mind- Gosh, he was slipping back into his old mindset here. How he used to think, back when he'd been an avid champion for illegal underground and street fights. Back then, you never knew who was single or not single, never knew who had family equally into the fights. He'd gotten into a particularly bad scuffle when a cute boys older brother caught him flirting and severally overreacted.

He blew out a slightly frustrated breath, hitting himself mentally. He was done with all that. Now he was just a student, someone here to learn, and work his way up.

Angel refocused and patiently waited for the girls response, only to find her hanging her head and squeezing her eyes shut. He leaned forward, trying to peer at her face, slightly concerned, but before he could ask if she was alright, a new voice interrupted.

"“Her names Aya,"
Angel looked up- and sat a little straighter. Geez- if he'd known this school would be a majority of attractive people he would have tried to enroll sooner.
This new boy, who Aya promptly introduced as her brother Takeshi, was some sort of pale beauty.
Angel took him in, noting his slightly messy but otherwise perfectly styled hair and peering curiously at the oversized sunglassed perched on his nose. Hazel green eyes flickered down to quickly take in the rest of his appearance in a non-checking out way, simply observatory.

As the siblings interacted in a playful way, Angel took his eyes back to Aya, searching for family resemblance. She was a face of smooth angles and an open expression. Though he couldn't see much of Takeshi's face, He could definitely see how they could be related he supposed, if only for their general auras.
He looked back to Takeshi as he pointed to him, asking his name, but the girl introduced him before Angel got a word in.
Hm, she seemed much more comfortable now.
"Huh, cool name,"

Angel cocked the side of his lips up in a kind of self satisfied way, happy to receive a compliment.
"Thanks, It's actually my middle name, but no one needs to know my first name." He glanced up and fixated Reechi with a look, half playful half serious.
"Here that Reeps? Don't go around telling my name to people," He muttered, then added mentally. "Only you can call me that!"

He watched Takeshi plop down next to Aya, marveling at how short she looked. Or maybe Angel was just tall. He'd always been one of the tallest in his circle of friends and family. He was even a good few inches taller then Takeshi.

“Thanks for looking after my sister while I was gone, sorry if she caused any trouble,”
"Oh, you're no trouble at all, I'm glad to have people to talk to," Angel replied, making sure to address them both.[/b]
“Sorry if I was bothering you, and thank you again, for the seat."

Angel scratched the back of his neck awkwardly, maybe somewhat purposely flexing. "Hey, you're no bother! It's not like I own the seat, of course you're free to sit here."
He fiddled with the pack of cigarette in his back pocket, stopping himself from taking one. He was nervous granted, but thought it might be rude to start smoking. Besides, he wanted to start smoking less- at least until he found out was Reechi thought of the second hand smoke. Being a dragon, Angel didn't think she'd have a problem with it, but she also wasn't an Ignis, so smoke still might bother her lungs.
He ignored the pack and instead occupied his hands with petting Reeps- he swore he'd never get tired of the feel of her fur.
"Does the flow never stop coming?"
Angel glanced down at where Reechi was curled in his lap, looking up at him with a flustered expression, and he pouted slightly.
Sorry Reeps, this is probably pretty overwhelming.

He was about to say something more reassuring then turn back up to the Asians when Draconem come down from the heavens and vibrated the entire stadium with his landing. Feeling Reechi jump slightly, Angel laid an arm around her, slightly curling her to his hard abdomen,stroking her back with his other hand.
The beast gave a long and thoughtful speech about companion ship, during which Angel tenderly held Reechi. Alright, if she would hurt when Angel hurt- well, he didn't know how literal it was, but he was definitely not getting into any unnecessary fights with that statement lingering over him.
When the dragon announced he'd leave them to mingle, Angel turned back to Aya and Takeshi, not having anyone else to go to really. Besides, he'd like to get to know them. It'd be nice to have friends.

"So... you don't look like twins so... if you don't mind me asking, what year are you guys? Might I have classes with either of you?"

Angel assumed he'd be in classes with other 17 year olds and 16 year olds, if this school was anything like normal school, but he wasn't sure how old the adorable Aya was. Anyone just joining the academy would be here today to get their companion, so anything was possible.

Another girl interrupted their conversation- "Hi! I'm Trista!" Angel glanced up at her, not turning his body from how it angled to show his full attention on Takeshi and Aya, but giving her a friendly look and nodding his head in greeting, eyes sparkling slightly with the beauty of a black unicorn who followed her. He turned his attention back to the girl, only to chuckle as Chi added her input.
"Watch out, this one’s trouble with a capital T.”
He shushed her gently, still grinning.
You don't know her you rascal, try not to judge people, though he felt his amusment conveyed greatly enough through his thoughts to where Reeps wouldn't think he was really mad.

"Hey, Trista, I'm Angel." He didn't add anything else, not sure if she meant to join Angel and the siblings conversation, or the two pretty girls and a new guy.
He glanced at the other three, nodding greetings to the boy who'd recently arrived as well.
Dang, Reechi was right. There was really quite a large group in this area.

”Oh, mysterious!” Saga grinned cheekily at him, this guy seemed cool. His overly good looks were bound to attract attention and cause ladies to flock but hey, he was used to that. Back home, girls were always taking time out of their day to chat with him a little bit. He openly returned their kindness, even if he felt annoyed by their ridiculous high pitched voices. If there was one thing Aya and he shared, it was their hate for high pitched screams and voices. It was one of their biggest pet peeves. Saga pointed at Angels dragon.

”And your dragons name?” he asked, the little guy seemed cute. He’d never seen such a cute lil’ dragon up close before.

The smallest of creatures were always the most troublesome. he thought and laughed mentally; the small dragon reminded him of one of his old friends back in school. Nao. That guy was crazy, always yelling his name like he hadn’t seen him in years. Man, he missed his pals. Suddenly, the room shook and rumbled at the entrance of Draconem. The overly large Ignis Dragon laughed as before and gave one of the best speeches Saga had ever heard. He was mesmerized. He looked down at his egg in his hand and his eyes shined.

What is it going to be like? he wondered, Ah, but what if he doesn’t like me? he covered the egg with his large hands gently, shielding it from any mishaps. Maybe he wasn’t cut out to be a Ryder. Maybe he can’t do it. He sighed, why were all these worries coming at him NOW? He had worked hard for this dragon! Shoot, he’d taken his pants off for this thing!



”I am here too…” Estabel sulked, speaking as if she sounded dead. Aya had been so nervous that she had forgotten to introduce her along with her brother. How depressing.

”S-sorry! This is Estabel,” she bent down to pet the unicorn, running her frail hands through her thick fur. She had grown a lot bigger all of a sudden, was this how things worked? She was already half of Ayas size, and that wasn’t hard to do. How much bigger would she get?

”WOAH! Aya! You got a bad-ass unicorn!” he stuck his hand out to her and she perked up at his attention. She pressed her head against his and he felt his stomach bubble up. Estabel reminded him of a cat he had had when he was younger. Her name was Hooks and she was a Himalayan cat. He could still feel her soft fur and loud purrs against his fingertips. He had the most idiotic and pleased expression on his face. Saga was far too distracted by the intriguing unicorn to answer Angel’s question. Aya half-smiled at her brother. She sat up and gave Angel her full attention.

”I’m 16 and my brother here is a year older than me,” she replied and added ”Although he does not act like it,”

”And don’t forget it!” he noted, ”I am all wise, you should listen to me more you know.” He lay back in his seat and crossed his legs. He was actually having quite a bit of fun, and Estabel had warmed up to him nicely which was reassuring.

”if I listened to you…who would be able to get you out of trouble?” Aya shook her head and cast her gaze to Angel. She looked up at him and laughed, craning her neck. God, he was tall. She hoped that if they became friends, that her neck didn’t get stuck like this.

wait…friends?......Did I just say that?

”you need me. Without me, no fun for you!” he tapped his sisters leg with his foot that was crossed over his other slender, long legs.

”yeah…” Aya responded, to shocked to really give a proper reply or retort.

”Yay! She agreed!” he threw his hands up in the air, being the weirdo he is. Estabel looked up at Aya and tilted her head. Aya was socially awkward, but then again, so was Estabel. She liked that Aya was so much like her, because then they could relate. While Aya was off dazing into space, a black-hair beauty had made her way over and greeted them. Saga waved.

”Yo, I’m Ueto Takeshi. Nice to meet you.” he looked at her and then Angel, and then at the cute little dragon on Angels shoulders. He had decided something. ”But you can call me Saga,” he looked at Angel from the corner of his eye, ”You too. It’s what all my friends call me,”

Crack....!

Saga noticed the nervous energy coming from the baby dragon and a bit from Angel himself. Looking around, he hadn’t even noticed the other people gather since none of them were socializing with him. He had just been minding his own business. Regretfully, he couldn’t do anything to ease the little one.

”Oi, Aya, don’t be rude.” he jabbed her lightly with his elbow and she cast a glance towards her brother and then up at a stunningly beautiful girl in front of her.

”Oh, um..I’m Ueto Aya, nice to meet you.” the words had just rolled off her tongue. Her second self-introduction! She wanted to cry, she was so proud of herself. She caught a smile of approval from her brother from the corner of her eye.

CRACK!

Saga blinked and looked down, was that a leg sticking out of his egg?

"What the hell?"

Ash looked up as she heard a new voice come up and introduce themselves to the group. Ash looked around, astonished by the amount of people all sitting in a row. To be truthful, Ash would say there was two groups now as not everyone was interacting. Becoming a bit awkward and shy just sitting there, she hoped that Drconem would be back soon to dismiss them to where ever was next. She looked the girl, Trista, up and down. She was tall and beautiful, just like this row of people. Ash didn't count herself in those numbers though. She'd already made her mind up about Colette and this Riley guy that had his arm around Colette, which made Ash slightly jealous, but she pushed that out of her mind awhile ago. She saw the guy that had the small dragon that resembled a slightly smaller and girly-er version of Liath. Then she saw a girl and a guy on the side of him that favored each other slightly.

Liath noticed Ash's little observing she was doing and decided she'd better quit it before everyone thought she was a creep. So, he decided to go on a little tour. He climbed off Ash's shoulder and onto the back of the chairs. Ash watched him with wide and curious eye's, not too sure what to do. He crawled on the back of the chairs, his tail following with a swoosh, and politely asking people to watch out. "Excuse me, Colette." He said and steeped behind her on the chair. "Excuse me, Riley." He added as he reached the chair Riley was sitting in. "Thank-you." He added back to the two. "If you'd be so kind to let me through, sir." He said as he reached a tall guys chair who had a small dragon like himself. "Why, hello there, Reechi." Liath said as if he's known the dragon forever, leaning his head over the guys shoulder to see the small dragon. "Ma'am." He said with a nod to the short girl beside the tall guy. "And, what do we have here? An egg? Sir, I believe your egg is hatching." Liath said as he looked down at a blue egg that was being held by yet another tall male then turned to the guy to look him in the face.

After a moment, Draconem came back down from his hitch on the school. As Drconem was settleing in and waiting for people to return to their seats, Liath made his way back to Ash. "Oh, my dear. It's seem I must take my leave. If you'd excuse me, I must be going. We may chat another time in the meantime. You could find me with miss Ash Parker over there." He said to mostly everyone as he walked over the back of the tall guys chair and jumped into the empty, his long tail following behind him. He jumped onto the floor and walked with his head up and he smiled (though it was a rather creepy smile) and nodded as he passed everyone and their companions. "Good day, madam." He said as he passed Trista and gave a nod to the unicorn beside her. He climbed back up onto Ash's lap, his tail wrapping around him as he folded his legs to sit. He took up the look of a cat almost as he sat in her lap, legs folded under him and a tail wrapped around him twice but still long enough for the fluffy part at the end to hang down to the ground. Ash looked at him with a confused face not able to come up with words. Liath's neck was long enough to still look ash in the eye at her level, which he did. "What?" He asked as if nothing had happened. "What was that about?" She asked him with a raised eyebrow. "Oh, that? That was me making myself known." Liath said nonchalantly and went back to looking at Draconem.

"At this time, I would like everyone to please pay attention. Today has been a great day as the we have two great visitors with us today. Degore!" Draconem said, pausing as a rather large gargoyle flew into the stadium and flew around over the students. He poked a few of the new dragon companions noses along with slapping a few boys who kept talking in the side of the heads. Draconem laughed his hearty laugh at the gargoyles tough-love actions. "And the Great Gryphon!" At this familiar title, the whole student body arises in a loud roar of cheers and clapping. A large Gryphon then appeared and gracefully swooshed down and over the audience. It then flew down without a word or sound and gently landed on the ground in front of the group of people. He didn't say hello, just bowed it's head and looked up at Draconem with everyone else. "They will be showing you to your dormatores and giving you your rooms. I would like all the men to please go with Degore and the women please follow the great Gryphon. I shall see you all once again at training!" At that, Draconem was gone, returning to his hitch above the school. Degore flew around the stadium saying in a loud nasty voice "Come on, men! Let's get this over with!" While, the Great Gryphon just pantiently waited for all the girls to follow as he waited by the exit.

Ash stood up from her seat and smiled back at the group then walked with the rest of the crowd over to the Great Gryphon, who Ash and Liath had decided years ago to call Gee-Gee. Liath was hanging on her back, his tail stretched out and still long enough to slightly drag on the ground.

A girl had approached him. Trista. She seemed to be talking to the other side of the seats though. Colette finally realized how large the group had gotten since she'd sat down by herself. Damn.
Then, Ash's dragon came around everyone's heads, stepping around her and Riley to get to a boy all the way on the other end, telling him his egg was cracking. She looked closely, and noticed that indeed, there were already chippings. She rubbed at the back of her head.
When Draconem came back, she stopped speaking as she heard the screams echo the stadium. Quinn shivered, and Riley snorted next to her.
As Degore and the Great Gryphon were introduced, Colette leaned further in their seats, admiring the respect they received, especially the Great Gryphon, who was recognized all around Cree. She joined everyone in the clapping and shouting. God, the Great Gryphon! She'd only heard stories about the great dragon.
"They will be showing you to your dormitories and giving you your rooms. I would like all the men to please go with Degore and the women please follow the great Gryphon. I shall see you all once again at training!"
Then, he was gone, and Degore was shouting humorously at the males.
The Great Gryphon was waiting patiently for the girls to join him. Yes! She got the Great Gryphon!!
She saw Ash get up and head towards him, giving a smile back at the group.


Oh. It was time to stop wallowing around and get to business. After acquainting herself with her dormitory, they would head to training, and Colette was very eager to start that.
She also stood, up , and Riley followed behind her.
"Weren't you listening? You have to go over there." She pointed to where Degore was still shouting.
"Huh?", Riley looked a bit dazed, like he'd been staring off. "Oh...whoops." He gave an embarrassed smile.
"You are too dense sometimes.Are you okay?" She shook her head, but smiled a little.
"Yeah..yeah I'm alright." He gave a small smile back, and went off to where the boys were, his dragon sleeping around his shoulders.

Quinn was sitting on her shoulder.
"I've noticed...no one else has anything but a dragon." She seemed a little sad at this, probably because she wanted another fairy to converse with.
"Oh, it's ok Quinn. Don't worry. We're just a unique team that's all."
Quinn flitted around excitedly.

"Anyway, we better get moving. "
Colette looked around. Everyone else on the bench was still seated there.
Eh.......
Ah, Ash was still walking!
She speed-walked over to her and put a hand on her shoulder. "Hey, wait up."

When the creepy chick's dragon had crawled all over him, he'd looked at all the other people on the bench. He'd whistled softly to himself, seeing all the people.
Sure enough, that guy's egg was cracking, and it wouldn't take long for him to have an awesome ass dragon such as himself.
Obviously, dragons were like, the sickest companions, and Riley was surprised Colette had gotten some dumb little fairy.
It just didn't suit her, he guessed.

Then, as he made his way through all the faces, one in particular caught his eye.
A small girl next to the guy with the egg.
Her face was mesmerizing.
He took in the details of her pale skin, her chocolate brown eyes, her shiny hair, and her cheeks that were permanently blushed.

Look away you pedo!

He tried, but the only reason he looked away was when Draconem came back.

Woah, he has two gargoyles with him! Fucking sick man!

He heard screams again, and snorted quietly, although he felt a poke from Colette's shoulder.
As soon as Draconem introduced the cool gargoyles, he stood up and cheered with everyone else.

In the corner of his eye, he saw something, and turned around.

Oh, shit, it's her again. It's her smile this time.
He sat back down, wrapping his hand around Colette's arm to restrain himself. She didn't even notice.
Then, Colette stood up. He followed behind her, not sure where they were going.
She gave him a firm glare and pointed to a mountain of boys following a gargoyle, as opposed to the other gargoyle with all the chicks.
Oh.....
He smiled at her and left.

Man......
Well, he didn't want to go alone. He walked back to the bench and looked up, trying not to look at her, but catching himself glancing at her several times.
He noticed the egg was in the middle of hatching, so he didn't bother the guy who looked like he was related to the chick, but instead looked over to the other guy on the side of her.
"Uh, hey, I'm Riley. You wouldn't mind, um, I don't know going over with me. I kind of don't wanna go by myself, and I know we're strangers and everything, but we're kind of not, in a sense, since......."
Oh, God. His thoughts were all jumbled up.
"Nevermind, I sound completely awkward. I.... I don't know."
He looked at the ground.
It's the stupid fucking girl. I could've gone alone. I just want to be here. Standing here. God, I'm such an idiot.
He was so irritated.

Ash's eyes widened slightly when she felt someone put a hand on her shoulder. It wasn't that she wasn't used to it. I mean, she had a dragon hanging on to her other shoulder. But this didn't feel like one of Liath's claws. No, this was human. Great, your love has returned. Liath teased through his and Ash's connection. Ash shot him a quick look before turning to see Colette. At the sight of her, Ash smiled widely. "Oh, hey, sorry." Ash said after she registered what Colette had said. Ash was confused slightly, and so was Liath, that Colette even talked to Ash again. But Ash kept a smile on her face, until she saw Jay in the corner of her eye. Ash turned to glare at him slightly.

Happy at the fact that Jay hadn't happened to see her, Ash turned back to Colette. Her smile instantly returning. She stared a moment at Colette's eyes before looking forward again and looking at the Great Gryphon. He was big and beautiful, to say the least. Ash liked his wings the most. So big and enchanting. Cree to Ash, come in Ash. Liath said through the connection and Ash sent him an annoyed look.



After Drconem left...again, Jay shot up from his seat, wanting to be the first one to meet Degore face to face. Jay always liked gargoyles, and now he had one of his own, Slayer, and he was about to meet a legend, Degore. "Come one, guy! Let's get outa' here!" He yelled as he passed a group of guys who were just sitting around talking. He didn't bother them too much, though. They were muscular and tall looking. As he walked, he heard some guy as some other guy to walk with him. Seriously? Jay thought. He looked at Slayer who, in a kid like voice, said "Let's go make friends!" and starting laughing mischievously.

So Jay then walked up to the guy and punched him friendly in the arm while saying "Hey, dude! What's up? Haven't seen you in a while." Jay said with a passing smile to the guy who was trying to talk to a muscular guy which made Jay regret coming over here. Slyer sat on his shoulder and watched the guys with wide eyes and a mischievous smile, just like every other little gargoyle you see. Jay hadn't even noticed the two girls with black unicorns, his worse fear. Ever since he was a kid he hated unicorns. He had loved black unicorns, but when he was feeding a baby black unicorn an apple, it mother had came and chased Jay up into a tree. Jay was up in that tree for hours, the unicorn kept circling the tree waiting for him to come down. Jay was finally able to come down once his father chased the creature away. He stared at the unicorns with wide eye before he snapped back to reality and shot the guy a grin and a "Well, see ya' later, man." And headed toward the group of guys in front of Degore. He hadn't even paid attention to the little dragon that was just born.

Angel

Angel introduced Reechi to the group, then noted to call Takeshi Saga from now, happy that he was considered enough of a friend to use the nickname.
Before he could really register what was going on, and who was talking to who, and who the dragon stalking about on the backs of the chairs and speaking like a proper gentleman belonged too....
Saga's egg was hatching, and Draconem was speaking- and when he finished....

Angel practically glued himself to the back of his chair, watching apprehensively as the huge gargoyle Degore started poking boys and screaming for them to get a move on.
Alright.
This was not something he had planned on.
Training, yeah, fist to fist fights, yup, fighting creatures, uh huh.
BUT NOT GIANT EVIL GARGOYLES.

He was distracted momentarily as Reechi started throwing herself all over the place, cuddling with Aya and plopping in Sagas lap for a moment. Okay Angel. Keep your cool. He's like a mean gym coach nothing to worry about.
Rowannn… save me…. I think my ears are bleeding.
Angel pouted down at her, gently ruffling the fur on her head, lad that she perked up again in a second. He was about to stand up when another cute but awkward boy made his appearance and Angel, being oh so very perceptive, noticed the way he couldn't seem to take his eyes off Aya, and only did so to awkwardly greet Angel.

"Uh, hey, I'm Riley. You wouldn't mind, um, I don't know going over with me. I kind of don't wanna go by myself, and I know we're strangers and everything, but we're kind of not, in a sense, since.......Nevermind, I sound completely awkward. I.... I don't know."

Angel laughed a little bit and stood up, stretching out his long legs and cracking his back slightly. He tried to ignore the fleeting thought that he could use this new comer as bait for the gargoyle, hoping Reechi hadn't heard that.

"I'm Angel," He said in a friendly tone, and then grinned mischievously. "That's Aya by the way, and her big brother Takeshi- er, Saga."

He threw his arm around the boys shoulders, to steer him away from Aya with a little force, but also serving to discreetly mutter, "You can hang out with us later if you want, and talk to her then. Try not to stare," He gave him a friendly, knowing grin, chuckling.
He was just following Reechi's advice to go find his room before pausing and glancing over his shoulder, noticing something missing.
"C'mon Saga, get your dragon under control," He said with a grin, jerking his head towards the gargoyle, who didn't seem to intent on waiting. "He doesn't seem the waiting type."

He let go of Riley, not one to be touchy feely, and continued taking a few slow steps backwards, waiting for Saga.
"Aya, Trista, I'll catch you guys in class, yeah?" He called to the girls with a lazy half smile, unconsciously throwing a wink. Dang. What good looking friends he'd made today.

Reaching up, Angel fiddled with Reeps tail in way he figured would soon become habit since she seemed to like the view up there .

“And, what do we have here? An egg? Sir, I believe your egg is hatching.” A dragon no bigger than a feline perched itself on Sagas chair and stared straight into his eyes. Its tail was more than 2/3 its size, and had a lot of poof at the end. It reminded him of a feather duster! Man…where was this guy when his Ma had asked him to dust the living room? He returned his attention back to the egg that was exploding its shell wall.

”Really?” Pieces of the shell were flying out onto the floor. He kept seeing the leg kick again and again. What a ball of energy! ”My hearts racing a little!” he laughed.

”I think everyone’s is,” Aya chuckled and pressed her elbows on her knees to look at the egg sideways. She was trying to give the hatching her full attention, but out of no where Reechi had launched herself at Ayas back. She balanced herself on her shoulders, and rubbed her head against Ayas cheek. She blushed and admired the softness of the small dragon’s skin. Dragons were so strange…but, it felt kind of nice~

” I'M HEEEEERE!!" the tiny dragon cried and practically jumped out of the egg. A grand performance! Saga reached his long arms out, grabbed him, and pulled him close to his chest. He didn’t want his lil’ guy getting hurt the first day. Reechi skidded away and ran to her human companion’s side when the new dragon came into the world. She was so pressed up against him, that Aya could have sworn that Reechi was trying to get into Angels skin. Her heart felt strange. Did she feel bad? But…it’s not like SHE had been the one to scare the dragon….

”Wow, wow, wow…that was a close one,” he opened his hands and stared into his baby dragons cerulean eyes. Wow.

”Aww, he’s cute!” Aya chimed ”isn’t that good? You have a dragon now,”

”Very cute,” Estabel concurred and started to get up. She put the weight on her front legs so she could lift her back legs, and then straightened her front legs. She shook her small mane that had begun to develop. Saga ran his hand over his dragons head and started to play with the two feathers sticking up on his head. Haha, he had cowlicks.

”What’s your name lil’ guy? I’m Ueto Takeshi, but call me Saga, alright?” he paused, ” He looks a bit like an alien,” he grinned stupidly and his sister kicked his shin, causing his face to contract.

”Ow, ow, ow! Not cute Aya! Not cute!” he groaned and rubbed his ankle against his shin. There would be a bruise there tomorrow for sure. He and his sister bickered back and forth until whispers and hushes filled the energetic room. One girl was screaming so high-pitched in the background that both siblings covered their ears. Well, Saga tried too…but his hands were occupied by his baby dragon. ”Aya! Save me!” he whined. She turned her back to him and laughed quietly to herself. ”You as-“ Aya brought her leg up to kick him in the shin again and he cursed.

Speech over and dealt with, the Raven girl continued to chat away. Introducing her companion, Saga gasped melodramatically. The thing had feathers! Peacock feathers! He nodded in the direction of Fucuello, unable to say his improper yo-greeting. He felt like the elegant stallion deserved some respect for his unnatural beauty.



Fucuello returned the nod and turned his head away after. He was taller than Trista-who was abnormally tall for a girl-and she stood at 6’1”. To give an image of his height, her head was at the bump of his back where a saddle would go. He found the location of the female gryphon and the girls who crowded over. Urgh, he hated large crowds.

Throughout the commotion, Aya had tried to ignore this strange feeling that someone was watching her. After everything calmed down a bit and the two beautiful ladies left, she had figured out whom. It was that, that.. Riley guy, stealing glances of her... 7 times. She had brushed it off at first, thinking nothing of it. But when he started talking, stuttering and throwing out words, it was obvious he was uncomfortable. A revelation dawned on her.

He was uncomfortable....because of her.

He probably wanted her to leave, that's why he was looking at her so much. 'no one wants you here. Just go. You're in my way.' she kept hearing these words over and over again in her head. It was like school back home all over again. Fine! If he wanted her gone, gone she was.

"I'm going to go," she closed her eyes as she sat up and tugged down at her red and white striped tank-top. Her toned muscles across her flat stomach had shown for just a split second. Saga reached out and clasped her thin wrist.

"What about your friend?" he looked up at her, and she noticed just how long his eyelashes were.

"Excuse me? Friend?" she cocked her head to the side, her silky brunette hair swayed to the right. When had she befriended someone?

"Trista silly!" he half-smiled at his dear sister and slowly let his hand brush off from hers.

"Oh..right." she looked up at Trista and stared at her for a couple seconds. She brought her hands behind her back and clenched her fists. Her cheeks were flushed pink again.

Come on stupid! Say something!

"U-um.." she looked down to the right and met the bluest eyes she'd ever seen. Riley. She quickly turned away and spun around on her heels. Her back now to the group. She mustered up the courage to speak to Trista and opened her lips, only to be shot down.

"Come on, men! Let's get this over with!" Takeshi quickly turned his head to where the sound was coming from. Damn, he got the boot-camp dormitory leader? Already he could tell this was going to be a tough year. And damn, the thing was just friggin creepy. He shivered.

"Hey, dude! What's up? Haven't seen you in a while." Takeshi turned his head back around to the crew, adjusting his seating position to his legs spread out but ankles touching. He sat the baby dragon in-between his legs. Looking the emo boy up and down, his height reminded him of his friend, Hiroto, back home. Although this guy was taller, whoever he was. He had a cut that resembled that of an emo and jet black hair. And before Saga could think more of him, he was gone.

”Weird…” Saga scratched the back of his head. Suddenly everyone was acting strange. This Riley guy and then the emo kid. Oh well, must be the nervous bug. Saga shot up and scooped his companion up in his hands at the sight of Riley and Angel getting comfortable with one another and leaving him behind. But then Angel stopped and walked backwards waiting for him, what a nice guy. ”Let’s head in! And give the poor guy a break! He’s excited is all,” Takeshi made his way to Angels side and poked Reechis nose

”Ah, ah, call me Saga, Reechi.” Saga looked back at his sister with a slight sadden expression, ”See ya later Aya! Call or text me for anything!”

"Yeah” she replied to both of them and took Tristas hand ”…Let’s go Trista," and at that, she was on her way. Swaying her hips ever so slightly in her white shorts with her head held high. What was his(Rileys) problem!?

Estabel followed after and stuck to Ayas side like glue. Fucuello was eying Aya and hoped she would feel his tension. After a few moments though he sighed and let it go. It was good for Trista to make friends, he couldn’t keep her confined. She had to fly.

That’s when she shines the brightest, Fucuello thought and smiled to himself, holding his head even higher if possible with his tail swaying side to side proud-fully.

"Am I that obvious?", Riley shuddered to himself.
He closed his eyes tight, forcing himself not to risk a glance back.

Jesus Christ.

But at the same time,

Aya. Aya, Aya, Aya.......

He looked over to the guy next to him. Angel.
What kinda parents name their kids Angel? Six grade was the rough year for you, wasn't it?
Well, at least he was very good-looking. That would help.

The guy named Saga came over. Aya's brother.
Shit.
He reached into his pocket and started chewing on some watermelon-flavored gum.
What was it that helped him with distractions again? Something Colette mentioned.
Oh,yeah.

He was transported to one of Colette's rigorous training sessions.

Look Riley, focus.

She'd forcefully grabbed his face between her hand and squished it.
"Ow.....Ok, I'm listening," he said as he tried to take his eyes off the window, where the sunlight was streaming through, and the birds were chirping.....
"Riley, look at me!"
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry."
She swiveled his head around to look right into her eyes.
"If you want to stop staring off into space, listen. I want you to keep your eyes on the overall goal. You aren't sitting here to just pass your next test. You're here so you can get accepted to the Ryder Academy. Everything right here," and she motioned around the room, "may seem aimless, boring, and completely unrelated to what you're currently thinking of, but in the end this is just the next stepping stone to what you want, and anything that isn't a stepping stone, anything that isn't a part of getting to your destination, is unimportant. So I want you to finish this," she pointed to the packet of work they were doing,"in the next twenty minutes,then we will move on.You think you'll never use this or you know it already, and you probably don't and yeah, you probably will, if the time comes for you to use it."

"Then why am I doing this?", he asked exasperatedly.

His phone rang then, and it was Oenone.

Colette glanced at it, then at him. "That is why you're doing it."

He answered it. "Hey, Toby, can you get me some more crackers on the way home?"
"Stop throwing the crackers to the ducks, Oenone." But he was smiling.
"Ha,ha, how'd you know!? Fine, I'll go in. Bye!"

He looked up at Colette. "Ok, no more distractions."

Colette fell back in her chair, her head leaning back against the top. "Finally."


He probably needed her mindset now. He knew it was just because she was in Full Mode Colette the Ryder, but it was still inspiring. He knew he probably was over-reacting, but he didn't care.

Better more than less.
A direct quote from Toliver herself.

He held out a hand to Saga, feeling very in control now. "Hey dude, my name's Riley."

Once all the students, or the rather called Ryders and their companions, were all lined up - or more like grouped up - in front of their said leaders, it was time to go.


The men took their leave first for the fact that a few of the boys began to argue and fight, while the girls stood and talked as they waited to go. Degore turned around uttering curses at the men as he did, and opened the tall and wide doors. The doors revealed a big long hallway made of stone. It had high ceilings and wide walls. It was obvious the academy was made to be a castle for Draconem. Degore walked the group down the corridor as he spoke and introduced each night suit and room as he passed. "That there, boys, was Sir Ryan. He had come here to try and kill Draconem, obviously, he failed." Degore said with a terrifying smile and hideous laugh as he pointed to a suit of armor. Everyone started looking at the suit, waiting for it to move.

The mask of the suit began to move and everyone stopped. A boy walked up to the suit and slowly opened the mask. When the mask was opened half way, out popped a little gargoyle with a loud terrifying scream that turned into a laugh as the boy and all who were watching jumped back with a yell. Degore stopped and glared at everyone. He walked over to the little gargoyle who was rolling around in the air laughing. He grabbed the little guy by the wings and the small gargoyle crossed it's arms and arched it's eyebrows. It was a funny sight coming from a little gargoyle like himself. "What's your name, kid." Degore said to the small thing. Degore was much bigger than the little gargoyle as he was 6 and a half feet tall, almost seven feet tall, and the little guy was only about one foot tall. "Slayer." The little gargoyle said, he sounded like a little kid. "Who's is this!?" Degore yelled and held slayer up in the air by his wings. Jay then slowly raised his hand and made his way through the crowd. "He's my companion, Sir." He said blandly. Degore dropped little Slayer in Jay's arms and said "You need to watch him, boy. You don't want him to always get you in trouble, 'cause that's what he'll do, boy. That's what he'll do." Degore said calmly then made his way back up to the front of the group. He slapped a kid that was staring off into space on the back of the head while adding "Alright, men! Let's get going! We want to make it to training before the ladies, don't we?! Then let's go!" Degore said doing a lot of hand gesturing then turned around and lifted up into the air and began to fly.

He flew the rest of the way there and landed in front of the doors. He turned to face the crowd as he waited for them to catch up. His hands were behind he back as he waited. Once everyone was caught up, he stared them all down. "Men, I give you our lounge!" He said and turned around and pushed the large doors open with some force. As they opened, they revealed a large room with tall ceiling, it wasn't big enough for all of Draconem to sit, bit he could still fit his head in it. There was couches, tables, chairs, bookcases with various books, candles, a fire place and on top of the fire case was a dragon egg in a glass case. Degore stepped in the room and the group followed. "Okay, listen up! Over on that table is a list with everyone's name on it. It shows your name and the room you're in!" Degore said loudly as he pointed to the sheets of paper spread out on a large table. It didn't fill up the whole table, but it filled up the end of the table. He then turned his position and pointed down two hallways on either side of the fireplace. "The rooms are down there. All of your luggage is already in your rooms along with stuff given to you by Draconem for your companions. I believe it's a few toys, treats, a bed and other stuff considering what you have. I believe he used his all-knowing sense to see who you all chose. Anyways, just go to your rooms, meet your roommates, unpack your luggage, then come back out here as soon as possible! So we can go and get training over with." Degore said then sat in a chair and watched the fire as he waited for all the men to return.

The guys then went straight to the papers. Jay found his name and room, Slayer sitting on his shoulder. He headed down a hallway and found his room. The hallway was big enough still for Draconem to fit through, and it made Jay feel like he was in a giant giants house. The door to the rooms were only big enough for Draconem to look in with one of his eyes and the room itself was only big enough to fit Draconem's nose and part of his snout. It was still a large room, but it was big enough for two people and their companions. There was a door at the opposite end of the room that led into the enclosure. Jay saw his stuff on the bed on the left side of the room, and someone else's stuff on the bed on the right side of the room. At the end of Jay's bed was a stone podium that had the name Slayer chiseled into a stone plague part of the podium. At the sight of it, Slayer flew over and perched on it becoming as still as stone as he did so. Jay then went and began to unpack his stuff.


After the men took their leave, it was the girls turn to go. Gracefully, the Gryphon turned from the group and opened doors to reveal a big long hallway made of stone. It had high ceilings and wide walls. It was obvious the academy was made to be a castle for Draconem. The Gryphon silently walked out onto the stone floor, the girls following. The hallway to the girls side of the building was lined with suites of armor as well, but there was less rooms. Each of the rooms were big and gym like rooms. The had plagues to the side of each room that said what class was held there. They passed Magic, Swords, Hand-to-Hand, and combat. Ash looked in each room with a smile on her face and Liath looking bored as ever. She was amazed by the size of the rooms.

When they made it to the dorm lounge, the Great Gryphon gracefully opened the doors and walked in the room. The room was big enough for Draconem to squeeze into. The Gryphon turned and finally spoke to the group. "Over on the table is a few papers. On one of those papers you will find your name and the room you are in. The rooms are down those two hallways. All of your luggage and a few gifts form Draconem will be located in your rooms. If you have any questions, feel free to ask me." He ended with a smile and slow nod then stepped back to watch everyone. He voice was clear and slick and comforting. Liath jumped off Ash's shoulder and went to find her name then returned to her saying "I have found our room, Ash." Ash just shot him a quick glance.

Angel

"Am I that obvious?" The boy Riley asked, looking sick at the thought. Angel punched him lightly in the shoulder.
"Just a bit."

He moved over towards the large gargoyle with the other two boys, grinning at Saga's dragon as he cried out questions to the world. He looked down on him with a smile, then blanched when Reechi crawled down to his shoulder and attempted to grab his jaw with her tiny hands and pin it shut. Centimeters before her hands closed, he turned his shoulder away, ignoring her pouty face and whines about how loud he was.
"Hi Bluejay, I'm Angel. This is my companion Reechi." He tried to be as gentle voiced as possible, whilest poking Reeps in the nose. He figured the poor thing was overwhelmed, and was amused by her behavior but also felt a bit bad for Bluejay.
He was just glad Reeps had hatched outside the stadium, even if he'd brought her in right after. Initially hatching in such a chaotic area was probably disorienting.
Speaking of disorienting, Angel side stepped two boys who were fighting near him, only to have Degore begin hollering curses at them whilst shepherding the large group of boys into the hallway.
Reeps, cover your ears, Angel mused, slightly amused, reaching up playfully to gently push her ears down. I don't want you developing a tongue like that!

Angel wouldn't say he had a particular bad mouth except for the mild swears he'd learned in like, 5th grade. Of course, he used to cuss worse than a sailor, but, again, he'd droped several traits that he used to be known for. Now, well, he said damn a lot, that was all he'd admit too.
As they moved down the hallway, Angel 'discreetly' 'hiding' behind Takeshi and Riley every time Degore glanced his way-not that that plan worked out well since he was at least a head taller then them both. He'd ducked behind their backs the first time, which had made the guys around them give him weird looks, so now he just would try to step back and make the other two look more enticing as a meal then he did.
Not that he was afraid, pshhhh, naw. That Degore guy just did not rub him the right way.

The group continued into a large hall lined with suits of armor and doors. The suits ranged from old and rustic to shining steel and the doors were equally as different. Some were wood with huge brass knockers and others looked like they belonged in a church, with elaborate fiery reds and golds patterned around the arch.
The freaky gargoyle who they were unlucky enough to be stuck with as a tour guide and whatever else his job was, paused, throwing a talon up to point at a suit of armor.

"That there, boys, was Sir Ryan. He had come here to try and kill Draconem, obviously, he failed."
His jaw split into a skincrawling grin and his maniac laugh echoed as everyone crowded towards the suit, anticipating something.
Angel made a rather comical expression, seeming to grow lower as he leaned over Riley and Saga's shoulder, to whisper in their ears;

"He's going to kill us." He hissed bluntly, watching the gargoyle with a wary eye. "And then he'll stuff us and put us up on display to show to the new students next year. And if he doesn't taxidermy you he'll use you as a chew toy and oh damn I am way to precious to die-"
Angel jumped back with a low yell of surprise as a small gargoyle popped out of the suit of armor, screaming bloody mary.
After he'd calmed down, and regained his composer, Angel didn't chuckle with the rest of the boys. Instead He held Reechi up in front of his face, fixing her with a dead serious stare while Degore throttled another kid about keeping an eye on his companion.
"Reeps. They're everywhere."
He cast a side look to another boy with a gargoyle, then pressed Reechi's cheek to his so she could peer around the crowd with him.
"They'll be the death of me. Look at those beady eyes and that stony skin and those TALONS."
He shuddered, (wishing every creature just had soft fur like hers, and sharp but not so freaking scary looking claws) going back to holding Reechi tenderly out in front of him, sure he looked straight out of Lion King to Riley and Saga.
"Just promise me you'll play 'Bang Bang You're Dead' at my funeral."
He was half joking.

"We want to make it to training before the ladies, don't we?! Then let's go!"
Angel set Reechi back on his head as the gargoyle took to the air, slapping his hands together in what could be considered a prayer pose.
"Don't let them take me-"

A guy passing by punched him in the arm with a judging look.
"Pull yourself together man, Degore isn't going to kill you."

Angel grudgingly agreed and hurried to catch up with Riley and Saga.

When they entered the lounge, Angel let out a low whistle, digging the digs. Degore gave them instructions then sat in a chair by the fireplace, to which Angel made a face too.
"I hope he's not in here all day, He said mentally, specifically to Reechi. He glanced at Riley and Takeshi, hoping they weren't to weirded out by his display.
He'd never seen a gargoyle before today, and had decided promptly he didn't like them. (The teen would never admit they frightened him, so stuck to the pretense of dislike.)

"See you guys for training,"
Then he hurried over to the table before the whole crowd could obstruct his view. He trailed his finger down the last page, guessing correctly that P's would be located there, and it took him a moment to find his name, labeled annoyingly as
Paladsky, Rowan A.
He memorized the room number and wriggled out through the crowd down the hall. He'd never liked dorms, especially when they were separated by gender. Guys were usually so rowdy and loud and sloppy- not that Angel was particularly tidy, but he wasn't a slob. He just hoped the lounge wouldn't always be trashed.

He found the room rather easily, and grabbed the handle.
"Ready Reeps? Behold, our humble abode!"

The room was pretty big, certainly enough room for him and Reechi. The bed and night stand were already set up, and a few boxes were scattered on the ground next to what was clearly his suitcase and duffle. A sort of hanging basket swung gently in the air, diagonal to the center of his bed, and just enough off to the side to not make the space seem crowded. There was stuff on the other side of the room, but Angel ignored it, wanting to set up his stuff and go.

"Reeps, check it out!" Angel grinned moving over and holding out his arm for her to climb into the basket, which honestly reminded him of the nest he'd got her from. There was a little pile of stuff, probably those gifts from Daconem Degore mentioned, so he left her to examine it while he started setting up his space.

Angel opened a random box, happy to find posters and bedding, plus a pillow. He liked that pillow. Had to bring it. He remembered he'd stuck things to hang his posters with and dug them out.
He made up the bed quickly with coal colored linen, then hopped on to stick things on the wall.

Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny cash vinyls, plus Pink Floyd and ACDC, he arranged together to make a slightly colorful square,centered over his bed, hoping Reechi wouldn't mind the pictures so close to her basket. Over his headboard went a "Sweat, Smile and Repeat." poster. Under that he stuck a long reappliable "I'd rather be in the gym" sticker.

Satisfied with his decorations, though he still had several more posters in the box, he slid it under the bed and examining the other boxes. One box was his decently sized bookshelf and a his books, one was a small desk, and the other was a dresser . There was definitely enough room for them, but Angel didn't see any need to put them together now. Instead he shoved the dresser box were he thought he wanted it,careful to mind the halfway mark of the room. He dropped his suitcase on top of it, and his duffle next to it, opening the duffle and pulling out workout clothes. He tossed them on his bed, shedding his shirt and throwing it on the ground next to his bed. Rubbing at one of his newer additions to the always growing tribal spirals all over his chest, he considered where he wanted his desk as he practically ran his head into the basket. It was just low enough where his forehead could hit it. He looked at the space above and considered maybe raising it, but didn't want Reechi too far up and away from him.
He moved the light-but maybe heavy to another- desk box close to his nightstand, and Reeps' basket, figuring he'd like her company while studying or doing homework, then survey'd his half. Looked good enough.
"Like the room Reeps? What'd you get from Draconem?"

Angel moved back to his bed while he talked, switching out his skinny jeans for loose sweat pants but not bothering to put a shirt on yet. He plopped down on his bed and gave his attention Reechi, hoping he'd gotten a good roommate while he listened to her name what the presents were.

Saga shook his hand casually.

”Ueto Takeshi,” he smiled nonchalantly and scratched his little buddies head after that. ”Wow, my ears going to fall off!” he winced and rubbed his ear that was being yelled into.”SSssssssss” he bit his bottom lip. This guy was HYPER. Like his buddy nao was, hmm maybe it wasn’t a good idea for him to have gotten a dragon. He shook his head, arguing with himself in his head.

I should have known this was a bad idea. I had to take my pants off to get the guy! Every relationship was going to head down hill if you had to take your pants off to get it started. Man, I should have known. This year…I might lose a lot of things…

He stifled a laugh. ”I’m just kiddin’, I’ll introduce you to everyone.” he started introducing Angel and his companion and ended it with Riley and his companion. Once the introductions were over, they finally headed over.

Watching Degore show them around, he felt himself wanting to go home again for about the fifth time today. Actually, if his pals were here, he wouldn’t mind being here so much. At least he would have his buddies with him to suffer, or blame stuff on so he would be safe. While thinking about his buddies, a few gasps or woahs escaped his lips from the scenery of the dorms. He took his glasses off and hooked them at the front of his shirt to get a better view of the place. It took him a while for his eyes to adjust to the brightness. In the large crowd of boys, he noticed that a lot of the dragons had already reached their peak form. They were huge! He cast his gaze to Bluejay, what if he suddenly grew on his shoulder?

I’d be squished! Pancake Saga! ….I bet I’d be delicious

He scratched the back of his head and was about to ask Angel a question, when he wasn’t beside him anymore. That’s when Saga first noticed Angel trying to hide behind him and Riley. He laughed.

”isn’t there something wrong with the picture here?” he raised his hand high in the air to represent height. Angel leaned over the two and whispered into their ears.

”He's going to kill us." He hissed bluntly, watching the gargoyle with a wary eye. "And then he'll stuff us and put us up on display to show to the new students next year. And if he doesn't taxidermy you he'll use you as a chew toy and oh damn I am way to precious to die-"

”AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!”

Laughter escaped Sagas seductive lips when Angel screamed bloody Mary. He put his hands on his knees and tried his best to laugh silently but it was impossible. Oh, it hurt to breathe. He lifted a half-clenched fist to his face and held it in front of his mouth. A big smirk on his face as he failed miserably to contain his laughter.



” They'll be the death of me. Look at those beady eyes and that stony skin and those TALONS." Angel exclaimed, he was being overdramatic…it was so funny! Saga just nodded and still muffled some random laughs that came up here and there. He patted Angels back.

” "Just promise me you'll play 'Bang Bang You're Dead' at my funeral." Angel half-joke and Saga shook his head.

”Ah, wouldn’t you think it’d be better to play ‘Another one bites the dust’ by Queen?” Saga replied, ”Ah, but don’t worry. I’ll collect Dragon Balls for you and revive you!" he joked around but continued, suddenly becoming serious" So…I’m not spending money on your funeral, I’m broke.” he laughed, all to serious about him not having a lot of money. Back home, he was known as the worst to borrow money from people..he often forget to pay them back till a year later.

Saga slouched backwards, more of leaning back as he walked. He brushed some hair out of his face (like Justine beiber would) and regained his cool. Saga didn’t really like Degore either; maybe if he wore a bag over his head with eye holes in it…he would leave him alone? He chuckled to himself.

”bye Angel. I’ll talk to you later Riley,” he waved goodbye to the guy and went to find his name. A lot of the boys had scrambled the papers everywhere on the table.

”What a pain,” he groaned and just moved the papers around till he found the one with U’s on it. Guys nudged against him and pushed him around so he got out of there quick. What ruffians. That was a horrible experience. He wondered how his sister was doing with all this? He could just imagine her now going back into her logical one-track mindset. On his way back to his dorm he pulled out his flip-phone and texted his sister.

Oi….. I have this weird gut feeling…don’t turn into the robot again! I like my sister with feelings. Make some friends and stop being so strange haha

He pressed send and slid his phone into his pocket as he opened the handle to his dorm. He saw his stuff and noticed Angel from the corner of his eye. Wow! Lucky! He had a friend here. Saga stared at him strangely as if he’d never seen a guy with his shirt off. He pressed his back against the door and wrapped his arms around himself. Joking of course, he said.

”Wow…Angel…did you sneak in here to seduce me? So lewd~”

"Vesper huh?" She said as she let down Fucuello's hoof. "I think I went there on a holiday once, very beautiful place. The air is much cleaner there than where I come from. "

"In my back, hoof Trista." Fucuello turned and lifted his hind hoof to her. She bent down and sure enough, a pebble sized rock was there lodged between the frog(middle sensitive section of the hoof) and outer rim.

"I'm from a small city, near the border of Orientalis and Aquilonis. My mom worked in a textile factory in the inner city, but we lived in the suburbs so the smog wasn't as bad." Trista struggled a little but dislodged the pebble and stood straight, cracking her back. She looked down to see Ash's dragon watching her. "Winter's were the worst though, I hate snow."

"Huhmm, quite. It's nice to meet you, miss Trista. I am Sir Liath. But you may have the pleasure to call me Liath." Trista smiled at the dragon. She found him absolutely adorable.

"It's nice to meet you to Liath."

"Good day." She heard Fucuello's contemptuous greeting to the others. They are a bit strange. Don't mind me if I speak hardly. He said through their connection. Trista glared at him and gave his flank a little swat.

Don't be rude! She thought back. At least introduce yourself.


"Sssssssss" his companion hissed after his questions. What was wrong? Did he really say those questions that loud? What was this he sensed from his partner? Regret! BlueJay turned he puppy eyes on Saga. Did Saga not want him for a companion anymore?

Instead he just laughed. ”I’m just kiddin’, I’ll introduce you to everyone.” Relief swept through the little dragon.

"Hi BlueJay." The partner of the grey dragon, who was for some reason giving him scared looks, said. " I'm Angel. This is my companion Reechi." Angel and Reechi, those were nice names. Saga then introduced the other two of the group who hadn't seemed as bothered by his outburst. The human was Riley and his dragon was named Razeth. He was about to reply that he thought their names were really awesome, some other boys amongst them started to hit and yell at each other! He'd only ever heard something like that once, when something else with big flapping instruments had come near. His mother had roared much more terrifyingly than the boys and chased the other thing away. But not before there had been some terrible ripping, tearing, and hitting sounds. He didn't know which scared him more though seeing the fight, hearing it, or the words that came out of the gargoyle's mouth.

Then again Saga didn't notice so maybe it wasn't important.

The comotion and jostling only stopped when they had stepped into a huge and empty hallway. BlueJay did not like how the ceiling went up and up and up without a seeming end. The sky didn't have an end but instead enveloped you in its landscape. This however was a black hole that looked like it could suck you and everything else in. The things lining the wall were cool though. Big metal things that looked like a human could wear and walk around in.

”isn’t there something wrong with the picture here?” asked Saga. What picture? BlueJay looked to where his companion did. Why were Angel and Reechi hiding behind them, or trying to?

”He's going to kill us." Angel hissed while watching the gargoyle with a wary eye. "And then he'll stuff us and put us up on display to show to the new students next year. And if he doesn't taxidermy you he'll use you as a chew toy and oh damn I am way to precious to die-AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!”"

BlueJay could have jumped into the air and flew if he needed to in that moment for the monster that had jumped out of the heads of one of the big metal thing's had not only scared Reechi and Angel but him as well. He clung on to Saga's shoulder with all his might and tried to shove his head down his companion's shirt! He didn't want to see it, he didn't want to see it! It was scarying and loud and he did NOT want to see it! In that moment BlueJay decided, all gargoyles were scary monsters.

So what was Saga doing? A sound was coming from him, one the little dragon had never heard. It rolled up and out like a ripple. Was his companion, laughing? Was he laughing at this misfortunate event that had become of him, Angel, and Reechi?

” They'll be the death of me. Look at those beady eyes and that stony skin and those TALONS." BlueJay nodded his head fervently in agreement.

"So scaaaaaaarryyyyyy." he moaned, caught a glimpse of the head gargoyle and hid his head in Saga's shirt again. He didn't yell this time though. Already he could feel himself draining of energy again. Especially since the recent scare had seemed to suck all his remaining strength.

”Ah, wouldn’t you think it’d be better to play ‘Another one bites the dust’ by Queen?” Saga replied, ”Ah, but don’t worry. I’ll collect Dragon Balls for you and revive you!" Dragon Balls? This peeked his interest.

"What are Dragon Balls, Saga?" He asked and yawned.

"Men, I give you our lounge!" The little dragon looked around sleepily. It was a warm and pleasant place, he liked it much better with the hall. The fire across the way made him want to crawl over and curl up and take a nice long nap. "Okay, listen up! Over on that table is a list with everyone's name on it. It shows your name and the room you're in!"

”bye Angel. I’ll talk to you later Riley,” Saga waved to his friends so BlueJay thought he would to.

"Bye, Bye." He stood on his hind legs and waved with one sleepy paw, his second bye caught in another yawn.

”What a pain,” There was a comotion as his Ryder tried to get to the papers. BlueJay didn't like it either, all he wanted to do was sleep and they were making that impossible. He snapped at one boy who came to close for comfort. The aforementioned papers were white flat pieces with black scribbles on them that apparently made some sort of sense to Saga because from their he got their room.

When Saga and him were finally heading to their room he took out a f'lipping device and started tapping buttons.

"What are you doing?" He asked and yawned again.

Finally they came to their room and BlueJay waved to their roommates and didn't even care what the rest of room looked like. All he saw was the bed. His bed, as he hopped of Saga and plodded over, crawled in and in five seconds was sleeping deeply.