The Bond Forged in Flame (88)

Starfania nodded, her mind racing to recall the moment. The way the moonlight had glinted off the blade, illuminating the forest floor. "I was drawn to it. It called to me."

Cantina's brows furrowed deeper. "You think this sword just chooses its holder? That's naïve." 

The tension between them crackled like the charged air before a storm. The dragon, seemingly oblivious to their exchange, continued to study the jewel, its breath steady and rhythmic. 

"I know it sounds strange," Starfania replied quietly, trying to keep her voice steady. "But something about it felt important." 

She took a tentative step forward, hoping to reclaim some authority in the conversation. 

"And now it's in your hands," Cantina muttered, almost to herself. "But what if it's more than just a weapon? What if it's a key?" 

 The notion hung in the air, heavy and unasked. Perhaps the sword was part of something larger, a piece of history yet to be unraveled. Starfania could feel the weight of that possibility pressing on her shoulders. 

"We should understand its story," she suggested, courage creeping into her voice. Cantina's demeanor softened just a fraction. "You might be right. But first, we need to keep it away from those who would misuse it." 

With that, she held the sword up; the jewel catching the light again, casting reflections on the ground like rippling water. The dragon stirred, its eyes narrowing. There was a stirring recognition that passed between the creature and the blade, as if they belonged to the same tale, one not yet told. 

 The white dragon drew near and gently nudged Starfania's arm, wrapping them in a sense of comfort and familiarity with its presence. Starfania smiled gently as she stroked its head and then she looked towards Cantina.

" You know he's yours now, so it's time to give him a name, " she said, her voice steady yet filled with warmth.

" Is he really mine now? " Starfania gasped, her face betraying her astonishment. She couldn't fathom what she was being told. Cantina nodded, pointing toward the dragon as she said, " He picked you. Out of everyone else, it's you he wants. "

Her face lit up with a beaming smile, and she eagerly reached out her hand toward him. He responded by stepping closer, affectionately rubbing his head against her hand. Starfania stared into his eyes as she confidently said, " I already have a perfect name for him. "

Cantina raised an eyebrow in curiosity but said nothing, allowing her to continue.

" His name is Atlas, " she said, captivated by the dragon's mesmerizing moonlit eyes. Cantina's eyes widened in surprise, and she couldn't help but echo, "Atlas. What a strong name."