“Really, you will?”

             Tan you’re the only friend I have. You’ve been the only family I’ve ever known, and when we get to Tanul you’re still going to be my best friend. I need you to be there for me.

            Catanya sighed, “Fine.” then laughed, “I shouldn’t have been so jealous. So what are you going to name your pet?”

            Her name’s Menka, after the flowers that surrounded master Kindal’s estate. They were always my favorites. Aimee got up and went to the fresher room.

            Jarron walked in while she was gone, “Where’s Aimee I’ve got big news for her.”

            What is it sir? Aimee asked as she came from the fresher unit.

            “I’ve found you a place to apprentice with a friend of mine who owns a griffin farm.”

            What’s his name?

            “Kaben. He has a farm famous for its griffins. In fact his latest apprentice is about to graduate into the Skyguard.”

            Are you sure he would want a girl apprentice?

            “Gender doesn’t matter to him. They just have to love animals, which obviously you do. What do you say?”

            What about Tan? Will she be able to be with me?

            Jarron shrugged, “I’ll talk with him, but there’s no guarantee he’ll have the room. He only has room for a certain amount of students.”

            I understand. I’d love to train there. Can you let me know about Tan?

            Catanya set her hand on her friend’s shoulder, “Aimee don’t let me ruin your chance. If I can’t apprentice with you we’ll figure things out to remain friends.”

            “I’ll tell you this,” Jarron replied with a sad smile, “he’ll prepare at least one room for you and one for your brother. But your friend’s an off-worlder and sadly they don’t get much say in who’ll train them. She may even have to go to her home world for training.”

            I understand Sir. Aimee said sadly.

            “But you’ll make new friends and you’ll be able to keep in touch with Catanya.”