Ainyah looked at the dragon who had chosen her as her lifemate and sighed happily. Life wasn't perfect - she'd probably be bored if it was - but it was as close as she'd ever come. Sulivith had filled such a gap in her life and in her heart, and she finally felt complete. Now that the green was all grown up, they fought Thread together; protected Pern and its citizens, and that felt really good.

Sulivith smiled draconically at her rider's thoughts. I am happy, too, Ani.

Ainyah experienced one of those wonderful sudden spurts of bliss and squealed happily, ran over and threw her arms around Livi's neck, squeezing tightly. "I'm so lucky to have you!" she cried, grinning so hard her cheeks hurt.

The green laughed deep in her throat and swung her head around to look at her beloved rider a little oddly. Are you alright?

Ani grinned, but didn't let go. "Uh-huh. Why?"

Oh, no reason, she replied, still chuckling.