The Bond Forged in Flame (89)

Starfania beamed with pride, feeling an instant connection to the name she had chosen. 

"It fits him perfectly," she added, as Atlas let out a soft, rumbling growl, almost as if he agreed. They shared a quiet moment, both marveling at the bond that had formed. The cool breeze rustled the leaves around them, creating a peaceful backdrop to their new adventure. 

"Do you think he knows what it means?" Cantina mused, her voice barely above a whisper. 

"Maybe," Starfania replied, glancing down at the dragon. "Maybe he understands more than we do." 

Atlas flapped his wings gently, sending a few petals swirling into the air, which gave Starfania a thrill of excitement. 

"Look at him! He's already showing off," she laughed, her heart racing. Cantina chuckled, "He certainly seems like he has a personality." 

Starfania crouched down, meeting Atlas at eye level. She whispered, "You're going to be my protector and my friend. Together, we'll take on the world." 

At that moment, Atlas let out a soft chirp, and Starfania interpreted it as a promise. It felt as if a new chapter was opening, filled with possibilities they had yet to imagine.

 Cantina's shimmering form began to fade, but before disappearing completely, her voice lingered in the air, commanding both reverence and trust.

" This is only the beginning, " she said, her tone calm but firm. " When the time is right, I will call upon you again. Until then, strengthen your bond, learn, and prepare for the challenge ahead. Avalon is counting on you both. "

As her presence dissolved into the night, Starfania glanced at Atlas, her thoughts swirling with curiosity and determination. They turned toward the path leading back to Aeron's place, the glow moonlight guiding their way. The cool night air wrapped around them as Starfania's boots crunched softly against the land, her hand occasionally brushing against Atlas's smooth scales. The dragon's steady gait matched her own, his immense form gliding silently beside her. Though the anticipation of their shared journey filled her excitement, Starfania felt a sense of calm in the simple act of walking together. The rhythmic sound of their steps mirrored the growing trust between them. For now, the flight could wait–a moment too extraordinary to rush. Instead, the journey back under the vast starlit sky offered its own kind of magic, as she imagined Aeron's face when they arrived, her new companion by her side.