“I am now bound to you as your dragon, Noa,” Murien said, his voice brightening as a smile overtook his face. A mark identical to the one on my wrist was glowing brightly on the child’s arm, and I silently repeated what he said. My dragon.
The child continued, “The mark will last until one of us dies.” A shiver ran down my spine as I realized there was no turning back anymore. Farewell, my peaceful and tranquil life. The thought left a bitter taste in my mouth.
“Thank you for completing the imprint.” The child gazed up at me, teary eyes shining with reverence. As I took in the boy’s hopeful visage, I couldn’t help but think that things would work out for the best. Already, the faint bitterness at the thought of my forgone, comfortable life was fading, and I felt an incredible surge of energy course through my body.
