Darrkon left Naomi's office optimistic about his future as a dragonrider.  He
felt he might finally have a home after these many years as a nomad.  That
thought reminded him that he still needed to pick out his apartment.  He was
brought out of his thoughts by the movement of a shadow within the shadows of a
nearby building.

"Who's there?"  He asked as he walked toward the stranger.  He had to fight the urge to pull his swords.

After a short pause there came an answer, "My name is A'shair, rider to Sirius."
A hooded man walked forward, Darrkon noticed he took care to keep his face
hidden.  "I was just sitting here thinking.  I hope I didn't alarm you."

Darrkon decided to call the stranger on what he thought was odd behavior, but
also thought it best to use caution.  "I do find it strange that dragonfolk
would be sitting hidden in the shadows of the warren.  That type of behavior is
more fitting for thieves and assassins.  But since you say you are a dragonrider,
and I am new to the warren, I must take you at your word."

The man calling himself A'shair showed no reaction to the implication, "I assure
you friend, I am no assassin.  Nor am I a thief.  But if you do not believe me
there are ,amy here you can ask for assurance.  If you have been accepted here
you must have met Naomi.  Ask her if you would like."

"I may ask her at that."  Darrkon answered.  "And should I also ask why you hide
yourself in such a strange manner?"  He knew he was taking a chance with the
question.  He himself had attacked men for smaller inquiries about his mask.

Again the hooded man showed no agitation at his remarks, he simply stated, "I
have my reasons for dressing this way as I am sure you have yours.  But I must
leave now friend.  May I have you name so I may know how to address you in the
future?"

Darrkon's instincts finally told him this man was all right, and he had learned
to always trust his gut in the wild.  "My name is Darrkon."  he answered.

"Ah yes, Darrkon.  News of your arrival has been passed among many here at the
warren.  I understand you may be joining our ranks as a dragonrider.  And that
you and your dragon grew up in the wastelands."

"Yes that is true.  I a a Wild Rider."  he replied.

"Well let me extend my welcome to you.  And my hopes that you will succeed here
at Norwall.  Perhaps someday we will fly together.  Well as I said I must be
going.  Goodbye Darrkon."

"Goodbye A'shair.  Perhaps I will see you around."  The hooded figure stood for
a moment more and then walked away to attend to whatever duties called him.  As
Darrkon began to continue on his way Calindeth called to him.

<Garnet tells me that Lacey would like to meet you for a swim.  Would you like
to join her?>

<Of course.  But is there anything you need before I go?  Where is she by the
way?>

<No Darrkon I don't need anything now.  And Lacey is...wait a minute.  Garnet
says that Lacey has to meet with Naomi, but she'll meet you later.>

<Tell her it's a deal.>  Darrkon replied.  <Since I have some free time, let's
go back to our place.  I want to neaten it up so I can bring Lacey there soon.>

<And what am I supposed to do?>  Calindeth asked annoyed.

<Flame overgrown bush, and move some of those boulders.  You'll probably work
harder than I will.>

<I meant while you and Lacey are at the cove.>  The dragon answered sounding
even more upset.

<It should be obvious.>  Darrkon answered.  He was surprised that Calindeth was
upset at first, then he thought about it.  Darrkon was asking Cslindeth to share
their personal place with someone else.  <You can take Garnet hunting with you.
Show off some of you unorthodox hunting moves.  You've always wanted to show     
them to another dragon.  And I'm sure Garnet hasn't seen a style as "creative"
as yours.  Plus she can help you with your flaming problem.>

There was no response at first.  Darrkon could imagine Calindeth huffing as he
considered his options.  Finally he answered.  <It turns out that a queen 
wouldn't be the best teacher tome to learn to control my flame.  But since you
want this so badly, I'm on my way.>

Teleporting to the wasteland cove took only a few seconds.  As they landed
Darrkon and his dragon noticed they had missed some things during their 
moonlight visit.  The area was mostly overgrown with bush and wild grass.  The
living areas they had carved from wood and stone had were rotting and crumbling.
And the coves water outlet was partially blocked.  The lake had moves about ten
feet inland.  As he took in the sight before him Darrkon could say only one t    
thing, "I think this is gonna take a little longer than I thought."


NRPG:  I'm back!  Just thought I'd free up A'shair.  I'm thinking their friend-
ship could develop around training so that A'shair and Darrkon could find some
common ground and then move from there.

Susan:  I still haven't gotten this cove placed just yet.  I'll let you know
when I do.