Ariana very softly stroked the fine tufts of firey red mane down the small dragon’s back. Thinking how precious and lovely it was. Slowly she realized she was hearing another sound, soft and sweet “Pfttmmmrrrrrrr” Did dragons purr? How extraordinary and wonderful!

Holding the little dragon carefully in her hand, Ariana pulled out a leather pouch with the other hand. She searched the area. Finding a few scatted scales, she retrieved the smallest of them and put them in the pouch, then settled the baby dragon atop them.

Walking back to the path she called ahead, “Realto? Boy do I have a surprise for you!”