He exchanged a glance with Rissa as he and the rest of the candidates strung themselves out around the eggs.

He watched as one of the shells shuddered like the dragon inside was butting its head against its shell, with finally gave way with a crunch and the beautiful cream dragon looked around.

Before she could make a move or anything towards them, though, her copper brother shattered his egg and went sprawling, head over tail, towards them. Ignoring the cream's narrowed eyes, the copper stood up and shook off his wings, displaying his seemingly rusted scales to everyone.

"Anrak," he shook a stray piece of shell from his paw and looked to the tall fur. "I heard you inside there. My name is Zekielth, and I would have come before now but the egg wasn't firm enough for me to crack. But I've been working at it, I promise!" The stately hatchling looked very proud of himself.

He smiled softly and patted Zekielth's head as he watched the cream walk over to Rissa and say something silently, and then say that she was going to stay and watch the rest of the hatching.

Zek shrugged then sat down too, content to watch as well.

He watched the rest of the hatching play out, and then walked across the sands towards the kitchen, grabbing some meat for Zek and starting to feed him. Looking up, he watched as Irun and Traena entered.

When your dragon has eaten and you have oiled their scales, which are going to stretch and be very painful if they're not kept careful watch over, you will go to your new caerlets and sleep. Your things will be moved up in the morning, and your dragon will accompany you to the bonder dorms to do it. I expect no pranks; that can wait for a few weeks yet. Everyone, be safe. Do not go onto your ledges and do not attempt to do anything tonight but sleep."

Traena added, "I have posted your caerlet assignments outside the door. Get them and go to your room, unless you need to speak with us. We will be by in a few minutes to check on you."

He smiled and leaned into the wind over his dragon's back, holding on tightly as they sped forward. Near them flew Cream Sierth, beating her wings strongly to keep up with them.

"Get back here, you two!" she yelled in annoyance.

Zikielth just rumbled amusement and kept flying as fast as he could, trying to keep his lead in their quick race. His wings beat swiftly and he gloried in the feel of the open sky and the wind that held no boundaries.

Behind him, Sierth grumbled and kept up as best she could, promising to get them back when they were on the ground once again.