The pain that hits me is intense but just as the old dragon had promised, the pain quickly disappears. I shudder as the old dragon's power washes through me and I feel it settle in my chest. No, it felt as if it had wrapped itself around my heart. I quickly look down to Fig and see his little eyes blinking as he slowly awakens.
I smile and look to the old dragon "Thank you.. I have no way of repaying your kindness.." The old dragon looks a bit tired but otherwise okay. "No need child.. this old dragon hasn't done much. If you wish to repay this old one.. then I would love to see the world as it is today. I can no longer leave this cave.. So if you could allow me to see through your eyes.. I would be grateful."
I blink a few times but nod my head saying "Of course!" The old dragon beams and says "My name is Nexus, and you are?" I stand on shaky legs and say "My name is Syn and this is Fig. We both thank you for this borrowed time." Nexus gives me a gentle smile and says "It's not much little one.. I wish I could do more."
I shake my head as Nexus points to the front of the cave "You should go.. your mate is trying to destroy my barrier and even though he is strong.. he has nothing on this old one. Quickly, before he hurts himself." I look from the front of the cave then back to Nexus and give him a respectful bow. He nods and slowly begins to lower himself back into the water causing it to splash out and around the cave completely soaking me and my dress I left on the side.
So much for dry clothes.. I grab the dress and do my best to shimmy into it while still holding Fig. He was still sleeping but at least he was showing signs of waking up. I shiver at the cold nipping at my wet skin and make my way back to the front of the cave. I push through the barrier and nearly run into Rune.
"Syn! Are you okay?" Rune ask grabbing me and holding me close. I shiver again when I feel his warmth and I'm suddenly dry. I smile at the familiar power and say "Thank you.. I'm fine. This cave belongs to the fairies and they let us come here from time to time. There is healing water inside and I figured it would be good for Fig.." He tightens his hold and I wonder if I should tell him about Nexus.
"I just got you back.. you can't just disappear like this again.. okay?" He says is a low voice and I lean into him saying "Hmm.. I understand. I'm sorry for scaring you." When he finally releases me, he checks me over but stops at my eyes. He freezes and something like fear takes over his handsome face.
At his pause I freeze as well "What? What's wrong?" I ask lifting my hand to my face and feeling around. My confusion grows when I fail to find anything wrong. "Rune? What's wrong?" I ask again and he finally says "Your eyes..."