Race Riders (The Hidden Quest- Book One)

by E. W. SALOKA

  Piggmordon was amused now.” I don’t think we can allow that. It has been decided, we are going to take you back to the Swamp with us. You’ll make a fine captive.”

  Thomas could see there was not any reasoning to be done here, and was back to his original plan. RUN LIKE HELL!

  Thomas was surprised as his legs took him in great leaps and bounds. It’s amazing what pure fear can do to you, he thought.

  Piggmordon and his army took off after Thomas on their beasts, snarling and growling after him.

  Thomas’ heart hammered in his chest and he wondered about his heart failure. At least if I drop dead from a heart attack, I won’t feel any pain when the orcs kill me. Not much solace but at least he had another plan. Die from a heart attack. He wasn’t sure where he was running, but he ducked into another set of woods. He hid behind what he thought was a huge rock, but then it started to move.

  “Thomas Wellington, what and who are you running from.” The dragon turned around so he could see her.

  “Marquor, orcs are chasing me and I was trying to hide, they want to take me as a prisoner.” The words came out jumbled as Thomas was trying to catch his breath. He was relieved she was there. He now breathed a sigh of relief.

  “No need for concern Thomas, I’ll take care of them for you. I cannot imagine why Faazen would let you out by yourself. This surprises me. “

  “He gave me a special device, a sphere I could contact him with, but it fell out of my pocket. I think it is in a log back there in the Seia Woods.

  Marquor also was concerned that the orcs were in the Seia Woods. Faazen had an illumination he cast on that specific area to protect the gnomlies. How did they even get past that?

  She did not have time to think. “Climb on Mr. Wellington, we’re going orc hunting.”

  Thomas climbed upon the sleek dragon and she stealthily made her away through the forest. He kept his eyes alerted to any noise, and Marquor moved as a lion stalking her prey. Finally, she saw one.

  Marquor swirled her long tail around the hapless orc. “Hello my friend, looks like you are the one surprised now. Where is your loathsome leader? I know you are here somewhere, filthy creature. Show yourself or I will crush the life out of this one. Does not matter to me either way. What do you think Piggmordon,” she nearly growled the words out. “Come out, come out .Don’t you want to save this poor thing from the horrible pain he is sure to endure. Some leader you are not even caring about your own men! “The fearsome dragon looked down at the hideous orc squirming to get away from her tightening grasp. “It is useless to try to escape” she hissed at him. “Just accept you are going to die!” He was writhing and screaming with pain as she coiled tightly around him.

  Thomas hung on to her neck because she was twisting and turning and he didn’t want to fall off.

  “I was rather hoping to spare your life. Oh well, might as well get this over with, quick and painless or slow and torturous. Decisions decisions, whatever should I do?” She tapped her long talon on the ground.

  “Alright Marquor you’ve had your fun, let him go!” Piggmordon had finally appeared, all four and half squat and bulky feet of him.

  “Oh Piggmordon! what rock did you crawl out from under. I am so happy you could join the festivities.”

  The pinned orc yelled his agreement.

  “Be quiet slime! I will let you know when you can speak.

  “I said let him go old girl.” The orc leader now was trying to reason with the enraged dragon.

  “As if I would ever listen to you, however you can have this sorry creature.” She threw the crumpled orc at his feet. “Leave this man alone,” she said looking back at Thomas, or I’ll summon the other dragons and we will destroy your whole tribe just for fun. Now leave the White-Echo Forest and never return.”

  Piggmordon backed down a little. Marquor was looking for a bloodbath, and almost gleeful about it. She was serious and he didn’t want to anger her further. It was time to leave, and fast. “C’mon men, we’re done here. Let’s go now!” The orc general secured his regiment and they mounted their wild, heavily armored boars and took off with war cries and lusty yells. Even though the orc army was forced to leave, they were still loud and proud.

  Marquor fanned her wings in the sun and checked her scales for any damage. She beat her wings and let out a bloodcurdling scream. Thomas covered his ears as he was still riding the angry dragon. “Take it easy Marquor,” and he patted her neck.

  “It is good they have left. I would have destroyed the filthy lot of them.” She spoke the words with a fierce pride. “I am the guardian of the White-Echo Forest and it has been entrusted to me to protect. I cannot allow an orc’s presence here; it would desecrate its order and perfect harmony.” Marquor told him that at nightfall during the twilight hours, a fine white mist settles over the forest. Every living creature is in awe of its mystery and beauty. “I would fight to the death to keep it that way.” She said. Thomas was amazed at her courage and honor.

  “I should go back to that log in the Seia Woods and retrieve Faazen’s sphere. I am hoping the orcs didn’t find it.” Thomas said with a look of concern.

  “I will go with you Thomas, we need to keep you safe.” He stayed on her back as she climbed high above the trees. The dragon landed quickly and Thomas got off and found the sphere lodged in the middle of the hollowed out log. Marquor signaled to him and he climbed back on before they soared into the clouds again.

  “Where to now Mr. Wellington. Are we going back to the castle?”

  “Not quite yet Marquor,” Thomas shouted as the wind was loud in his ears. “I am hoping to go to the village. Maybe I should continue my rest,” he said with sarcasm in his voice.

  “Very good Thomas. I’ll take you there now.” The dragon’s wings beat as metallic fire, landing smoothly in a clearing outside the marketplace.

  Thomas got off the dragon, brushing at his jacket and pants. “Thank you Marquor, I really appreciate all of your help today.”

  “Think nothing of it treasured guest of fine wizard, I will see you again, enjoy your afternoon.” The blue dragon then flew off and Thomas waved until all he could see were her golden tail rings gleaming in the afternoon sun.

  Thomas walked up ahead and there was the opening to the marketplace. Everyone was laughing and bustling about. There were several tents set up and produce was overflowing out of the bins. Thick purplish heads of cabbage looked like giant flowers as they poked out of wicker baskets. Fresh crisp and juicy apples beckoned with colors of red, yellow and pink. There was a tent with many bins filled with exotic fruits and figs, dates, and every nut imaginable. Thomas stopped to buy some candy for his grandson. He realized he only had some dollar bills crumpled up in his jacket pocket. He saw people with pouches of silver exchanging them for the goods offered. He decided to leave the tent when a man stopped him with a friendly greeting.

  “What can I get here for you? The chocolate coins are a favorite of young and old alike. I see they caught your eye sir.”

  “Well, I must admit they did, however I don’t have the currency used here in Brandiss-Dor. I am a guest at Dragmar and without silver today.” Thomas looked down a little embarrassed.

  “The special guests of the wizard Faazen!” the tall man exclaimed. “Please, please help yourself to a little of this and that.” He filled a paper sack for Thomas with a selection of chocolate coins and light and dark caramels. “Enjoy your day sir and come again. The name is Sims,” the tall man said with a hearty laugh.

  “Thank you” Thomas said graciously.

  “My pleasure” Sims said tipping his hat.

  There was a strange woman watching Thomas from across the stands. She was purchasing items, but every now and then she would look back at him. She had small beady eyes and a long crooked nose. When she smiled, her teeth appeared jagged and uneven. Black, frizzy hair partially hid her face, and she was quite short in stature. She was smiling at the vendors and seemed nice and pleasant. They liked her too
and he kept hearing, “oh Miss Daisy you would like this or please try that.” She must have been an important customer as everyone was going out of their way to talk to her and sell her their wares. She was quite gracious to everyone.

  Daisy stopped and waved to him. Thomas was surprised since she did not know him. He waved politely and she came over to introduce herself.

  “Hello, you must be Mr. Wellington. My name is Daisy, I’m a seamstress here. I heard Faazen had guests and I wanted to extend a hand of friendship.”

  Thomas looked closer and saw she was wearing a beautiful dress of deep scarlet and matching cape. She was courteous and had a genteel voice, almost melodic. It reminded him of the girl Mella. She was a wonderful conversationalist and Thomas found himself enjoying their time looking at the various stands as she purchased fresh fish, crisp greens and crusty bread. Soon she had two wicker shopping bags loaded with purchases. He took them from her and they continued walking through the marketplace.

  Daisy spoke shyly “If you need anything or maybe want to go to market again, I would be happy to accompany you Mr. Wellington.”

  “Thank you Daisy that would be nice. People here are nice and friendly. Marquor has also been helpful.”

  “Yes she is a special dragon, kind but quite fierce when needed. She paused for a minute. “Would you walk me to my cottage? It is not far down the road, I should have brought my horse and cart today. However, the weather was positively lovely and I thought walking was in order. Who knew I would buy so many things!”

  Thomas laughed. “I’ve had quite an eventful day. I want to check on my grandson, He went dragon riding today with Dredd. I would be happy to help you with your packages.”

  “Oh, Andi’s brother, I know them well. She is a good friend. Thank you for your help, I do appreciate it. Maybe we’ll see one another at the market place again.”

  “I would like that Daisy. It was most certainly a pleasure to meet you too.”

  They said their goodbyes as she walked through the gate to her cottage. She smiled as she waved.

  Thomas made his way back to the castle. He was carrying the few purchases bought at the market. The walk back was uneventful and soon he was well past the courtyard and into the castle gardens. Faazen waved to him. He was sitting there with Zach.

  “Hello Thomas, How was your outing today?”

  Thomas smiled, “it was quite the adventure. I will tell you at supper. I’m going inside now to put these items away.” He hummed a tune and Faazen noticed the newfound spring in his step. The wizard was glad that Thomas had some fun today. The past few days had been hard for him. It was good for him to be out, meet some townspeople, and do some shopping at the outdoor markets. He already knew what happened today, but preferred Thomas bring up the subject later at supper.

  Zach stood up. “Faazen I’m going to the stable and give Brownie his treats.” He tossed an apple up in the air and expertly caught it.

  “That will be fine Zach. Do not forget to come in a little while to wash up, supper will be shortly thereafter.”

  Zach nodded as he walked down to the stables. His tiny horse was there with Faazen’s horses. He wanted to keep Brownie with him in the castle but the wizard insisted, horses no matter what their size, lived in the stables and were happy there. Zach enjoyed visiting Brownie and bringing him a carrot, apple, or a special bag of oat mix. He so hoped the little horse could go home with them when they left Brandiss-Dor. He still missed home and thought about it most days, but it was fun here, and being a guest at Dragmar was rather like being a celebrity. Everyone made a fuss over him. He had to admit it was somewhat cool, especially dragon riding today. Dredd was an expert rider showing him some interesting tips, and the caverns were awesome. He met Lorthax, who was a powerful dragon and quite dramatic in stature. The jewels he guarded were incredibly exquisite. Zach couldn’t wait to show granddad the blue sapphire Lorthax had given him.

  Thomas was refreshed and clean-shaven when the wizard saw him standing by the hearth with a pensive look on his face. He started to speak but then stopped.

  Faazen walked over and put his hand on his shoulder. “What is it? You seem to be troubled.”

  Thomas nodded. “I met someone today that I am intrigued with, yet she doesn’t possess the physical beauty one enjoys in a woman. Still, she has an inner beauty that shines within and makes her lovely.”

  “Ah, Thomas, you have met the enchanting Daisy. A most wonderful and kind woman you could ever hope to meet in this kingdom or any other. Do not judge a book by its cover. Take time and get to know her. Everyone loves her and she has many attributes. Outward beauty is fleeting my man. A woman looks in a mirror and her reflection is the vibrancy of her youth. Many years later, the same woman looks in the mirror and sees another face. You see Thomas, Daisy only has inner beauty. She does not worry about the superficial, only the lasting things.”

  “I understand what you are saying Faazen.

  I saw her cottage, something one would see in a dream or a fairy-tale.”

  “I am sure it’s charming,” Faazen smiled. “Let us go to supper now. Zach should be back from the stables.” He paused for a moment as Thomas walked up ahead. “His destiny is yet to unfold” Faazen said quietly.

  Dredd thought the training went well. The kid was good and he would do better as time went on. Zach wasn’t as childish as he originally thought. He saw his sister up ahead and she was smiling.

  “Andi you look as if you swallowed a canary with that smile.”

  “I have a date with Mr. Shaw tomorrow so behave little brother, I like him.”

  “Yeah, I can see that, just be careful. I still don’t trust him.”

  “Well that is your decision, so please stop spying on him at the tavern.”

  “I do no such thing. Where do you get your information Andi?” Dredd said defensively.

  Andi smiled slyly, “from Mr. Weller. But everyone knows you do!”

  “That man can’t see a foot in front of him” Dredd smirked.

  “Maybe so, but he sees you there every night at the back table. He said Zachary was there with you the other night and you ran into your old school chum. What’s her name?”

  Dredd gritted his teeth. “Ilsa Ivey, yeah that was fun.”

  “Yes “Andi said clasping her hands together. “That was your friends’ name, Ilsa Ivey. I remember her now.”

  “She is not and never was my friend. She is just an annoying and rude person.” Dredd was emphatic in his answer.

  “I’m sorry Dredd I was thinking of Sera, she was your friend. The two of you went riding together after school all the time.”

  “You’re right Sis, that we did. Sera was my friend. She had a dragon that changed colors as Payne does. Last year she went to help her aunt who was quite ill. I haven’t heard from her since” he said wistfully.

  Andi listened as she started preparing dinner. She went to the back kitchen to find strawberry preserves for the brown bread she baked earlier in the day. Andi’s mind started wandering as she thought about the yellow linen she had her eye on. Dredd left the kitchen and was in the parlor reading by the fireplace. He was deeply engrossed in his book and Andi peeked in on him to tell him supper would be in a little while. Dredd nodded and continued enjoying his book.

  ~

  Mella sat at the edge of the lake and brushed the gems that lay scattered across the edge. She was polishing them as it was her duty to keep the Hyperion Lake clean and sparkling, and that included the precious jewels. Daisy popped up and startled her.

  “Hello Mella dear, I didn’t mean to frighten you so.”

  “Oh, Daisy!” Her face broke into a wide grin as she reached up to hug her beloved sister. “What are you doing here? Is everything good?”

  “Everything is well. I was just thinking of you and wanted to see my little sister.”

  “Daisy, I do miss you. Will I always be this way?” She said in a tiny voice.

  “I believe that one day you will be able to
come home with me and grow as a normal girl does into a young woman.” She clasped her sister’s small hands. “I would take care of you and never let anyone hurt you again.” Daisy’s eyes glistened as she spoke. “It is my wish for you.”

  Mella pulled away and started crying. “It’s too late for me Daisy.” She sobbed quietly, her chest heaving with each sigh.

  “I don’t want you to think like that. Someday it will happen just as I told you.” She gently took hold of her sister’s heart-shaped face. “All you have to do is believe Mella. Everything is possible when you believe.”

  “I will Daisy,” she said solemnly. “I will.” Both hugged goodbye and neither of them saw a thin figure standing off to the side of the lake.

  There standing quietly by the bushes was Daksha. She had overheard their conversation and started weeping. Knowing she was the one responsible for Mella’s curse made her suddenly remorseful.

  Thirteen - Faazen’s Rage

  Daksha ran through the woods sobbing, she had hurt so many people and her heart was breaking. She ended up at Castle Dragmar crying outside the gate. Heaving her body on the damp ground and curling up as a small child refusing to be comforted. Daksha wasn’t sure what to do and felt completely and utterly alone. She lay there for what seemed like an eternity, but it was only an hour or so. Looking up and there standing above her was Faazen. He gazed down at the troubled woman and smoothed his hand over her brow.

  “What is wrong my child? What has he done to you now?”

  “No, it wasn’t really Rianor. I am ashamed of my life and what I have become. I wish to change the past and cannot.”

  “No child, what is past is over. You can start from here and change your life. You must be willing in your heart. Not words, but inside, that is when the change will come.” He looked kindly at her.

  “I want to. Show me how; please tell me it’s not too late father.”

  He put his arms around her and she sobbed again. “My lovely girl, you have come back to me and nothing else matters.” Together they stood up. Daksha was shaky but Faazen gently held her up and brought her into the castle. “You are home my child, you are home.”