Oath of Shadows

Nora lay on a makeshift cot, her body still weak from the brutal attack by Kaishan – or rather, by Hakai. The Shadow Assassins had done what they could to heal her wounds, but her determination burned brighter than ever.

Slowly, Nora's eyes fluttered open, and her gaze locked onto Shizuka and Emnra, who were standing vigil by her side.

Shizuka: (Relieved) You're awake, Nora!

Emnra: (Nodding) We were worried there for a moment.

Nora: (Smirking weakly) Please, I've taken worse hits than that during breakfast. I'm fine.

Shizuka: (Grinning) That's the Nora we know.

Nora: (Grunting) Alright, enough with the sentimental crap. Get me on my feet. We've got business to attend to.

Emnra and Shizuka exchanged amused glances before helping Nora stand. Nora's determination radiated from her like a storm, her eyes ablaze with a fierce resolve.

Nora: (Grinning) Listen up, you two. I've made up my mind. We're paying a visit to the dragon queen and the elder dragon.

Shizuka: (Surprised) The dragon queen and the elder dragon? Why?

Nora: (Smirking) Because I'm enrolling you both into the Shadow Assassins. And we're taking Kaishan with us.

Emnra: (Intrigued) Wait, what? Enrolling us into the Shadow Assassins? And Kaishan?

Nora: (Folding her arms) Yeah, you heard me. Kaishan is the key to defeating that evil mantra, and I'm not about to let that darkness go unchecked. We need his power, and we need it controlled. Besides, if he's Hakai, he'll be able to handle himself better in our ranks.

Shizuka: (Hesitant) But, Nora, what if he loses control again? What if he hurts you or anyone else?

Nora: (Smirking) I told you, Shizuka, I won't let that happen again. I've got a score to settle with that Hakai, and I won't rest until he's under control. I promise to take care of both of you, and not get injured by him a second time.

Emnra: (Nodding) You're damn right, Nora. We're in this together.

Shizuka: (Resolute) We'll help Kaishan harness his power. We'll make sure he doesn't become a danger to anyone.

Nora: (Satisfied) That's what I like to hear. Now let's get moving. The dragon queen and the elder dragon are waiting for us.

With newfound determination, the trio set off, their footsteps echoing with the promise of a new alliance and the strength to overcome any challenge. The path ahead was uncertain, but Nora's confidence was unwavering.

As they approached the lair of the dragon queen and the elder dragon, Nora's voice carried a mix of authority and conviction.

Nora: (Calling out) Dragon queen! Elder dragon! We seek an audience!

The massive figures emerged from the shadows, their imposing presence a testament to their power.

Dragon Queen: (Regal) Nora, what brings you here?

Elder Dragon: (Curious) And who are these two with you?

Nora stepped forward, her voice carrying the weight of her purpose.

Nora: (Defiant) We're here to enroll Kaishan and Shizuka into the Shadow Assassins. We believe that Kaishan's power is the key to defeating the evil mantra, and we won't let that darkness consume him.

Dragon Queen: (Observing) You are bold, young one. To seek our assistance and entrust us with the well-being of your companions.

Elder Dragon: (Stern) And what makes you think we should grant your request?

Nora: (Unyielding) Because I'm a woman of my word. I promise to protect them both, to ensure that Kaishan's power is controlled, and to prevent any harm from coming to them again.

Dragon Queen: (Contemplating) Very well, Nora. We shall grant your request under one condition.

Nora: (Eager) Name it.

Elder Dragon: (Serious) Audrey, their trainer, shall accompany them. His guidance will be essential in honing their abilities and taming the darkness within Kaishan.

Nora: (Resolute) Agreed. Audrey will join us. We'll take whatever measures necessary to ensure Kaishan and Shizuka are ready for the challenges ahead.

And so, an oath of shadows was forged, a pact between the Shadow Assassins and the dragon royalty. As they prepared for the next stage of their journey, the city of Wonder buzzed with anticipation, unaware of the powerful alliance that had been formed in the shadows.