Dragon's Prize (Dragons Awaken Book 2)

by Maya Starling

“Aye, you picked well, lad. Tell me, wha’ brings ya ‘ere… traveling alone with that dog of yers?”

  “Well…” Kaden wove an amazing story to quench Rhett’s curiosity. He became a royal messenger, wanting to deliver a letter from the king himself to the prince. Of course, his whole mission was very secret, and Rhett agreed to keep Kaden’s secret safe.

  The rest of the ride was uneventful. Once Pup was comfortable and felt safe enough, he dashed into the forest a few times and came back happy, his tongue lolling out. They stopped to trade at several estates, and Pup used the opportunity to jump up on a wagon so he could ride along. Pup’s exhaustion from the continuous walking and running around made Kaden chuckle. Whenever they stopped, Kaden asked about the Moore estate, so he could, as he told them, visit some old friends. He found out they would reach it the next day, past noon.

  Mousse proved to be comfortable and easy to ride. Her endurance was admirable. But by the end of the day, Kaden ached all over. Not just his hand, which was by then throbbing dully, his whole body hurt from riding so long. He was getting used to the motions of the horse again, a new set of muscles strengthening.

  Once they stopped to camp for the night, Kaden got off the horse, his legs almost buckling underneath him. He was relieved to be done with riding for the day.

  Camp was set up, they ate and decided to set a watch during the night. Kaden was given the first turn, as they thought him the most useless one, with his missing finger and the wound still fresh. When asked about it, he told them he had lost the finger in an encounter with a bear. Lost a finger, kept his life. The first watch was the safest. If bandits were to strike, they would do it later in the night, when everyone was lulled into a false sense of safety.

  Two hours into his watch, the others around Kaden were fast asleep, including Pup who was curled up beside him. It was then that he heard a slightly familiar yet out of place sound. He listened closely and heard it again in a different pattern, obviously meant to imitate a nightingale. He had to admit they were good, but not good enough to fool him. He’d had many years to listen to the sounds of forests and learn the calls of various creatures.

  Kaden pretended to scoot closer to the fire so he could poke at it, and at the same time, he surreptitiously nudged one of the mercenaries awake. The man’s eyes popped open.

  “Shhh… Pretend you’re asleep. We have company,” Kaden whispered, “Seems they were smart enough to strike during the first watch.”

  “How many?” the man asked.

  Kaden glanced around while pretending to yawn. An uneasy surprise pricked his spine when he noticed that his eyesight penetrated the dark folds of the forest further than he expected. Away from the light of the fire, the forest was painted in shades of grey, but he could easily distinguish the moving shadows, and hear the quiet shuffling sounds all around them. The crunch of soft grass underneath a booted foot, the snap of a twig masked by the crackling of the fire. Quiet distant whispers.

  “I’d say nine altogether… four coming from my front, others spread out around us.”

  The man pretended to roll over in his sleep, covertly looking around as well. “I don’t see anything.”

  “Believe me, they’re there. I… umm... have excellent night vision,” Kaden whispered while still poking at the fire with a stick. “Hear that? That’s not really a bird… and they’re getting dangerously close.” He stood up, making the bandits stop in their tracks as he sat back down next to Pup, hand resting on the hilt of his sword. He had to admit, they were very good, barely making a sound. Not even Pup was picking up their advance, or he was too deeply asleep.

  The mercenary inconspicuously woke his friend. He warned him of the advancing ambush. They then managed to rouse the caravan leader without being too obvious.

  When Kaden looked at the merchant and their eyes met, he knew the man had never been in a similar situation, where he had to fight for his life. The man’s eyes were wide, round with fear. Kaden wondered how long he had been a traveling merchant.

  Kaden’s eyes went back to the mercenary he had woken up first and saw him mouthing, “How close?” He yawned, and stretched his arms above his head so he could look around again. A shush of feathers, he heard the distinct sound of an arrow being nocked, drawn and released. It whispered, soaring through the air. Kaden threw himself on the ground and the arrow swished above him; it would’ve hit him right through the chest. The mercenaries and the merchants alike sprang into action.

  Holding his sword tightly, Kaden jumped to his feet. Pup stood in front of him, and growled, exposing his canines. Instead of the bandits, it was them that had the advantage. A man charged at him with a machete and a dagger. Kaden stumbled, but managed to dodge the blade aimed at his neck. Even though he still felt clumsy holding the sword, he was surprised at how well he was doing. The skill came back to him as easily as breathing. The man swung the dagger at his midriff, but Kaden found his footing, and blocked the attack with his sword. He kept the assailant at bay, having the advantage of a longer weapon. Their swords clashed, but neither got the upper hand, so they both retreated. They circled each other, waiting for the other to make a mistake. Kaden heard the sound of footsteps sneaking up behind him. The man in front of him lunged forward. Their clash had brought them closer to the horses, and Mousse took the opportunity to bite the intruder, just below his right butt cheek. The man yelped, and swiveled to defend himself from the sneaky fighter. Surprised to see a horse, he hesitated. It was enough for Kaden to strike the man unconscious with the butt of his sword. He never was one for killing.

  A cry of pain behind him, Kaden spun to see the other man, who had been sneaking up on him. He was on the ground trying to shake off Pup who was tearing at his leg.

  Kaden laughed at the scene. The man raised his sword, aimed at Pup. Kaden reacted promptly and butted him as well. He looked around for any other bandits sneaking up on him. It was then that he noticed the fight was over.

  Most of the bandits lay dead, their blood blackening the ground. The merchants huddled together, eyes darting around, fearing another attack. The mercenaries scanned their surroundings with a different purpose in their gaze. For a few moments the only sound was that of their labored breathing.

  “Well, that went better than expected,” said one of the mercenaries, breaking the silence and making everybody move again.

  The merchants were mostly unharmed, with a couple of scratches and superficial slashes, two bodies splayed out in front of them. The mercenaries had used the element of surprise well and had taken care of the rest of the bandits. Springing back into action, the caravan leader and his men started assessing the damage on each other and on their goods.

  The mercs checked the bodies. They made sure the bandits were dead and took for themselves the coins and anything valuable. While Kaden was checking Pup and Mousse for injuries, one of the mercenaries crouched next to the man who had been bitten by Mousse.

  “This one is still alive!” the merc said.

  Kaden turned towards him. “Yes, so is the other one. They will be out for a while, maybe we should tie them up.”

  Before Kaden could say anything else, the man slit the bandit’s throat. He then looked up at Kaden. “It’s either kill or be killed out here.”

  I’m aware of that more than you know, Kaden thought to himself but didn’t say anything out loud. He had never liked or approved of killing, even though he knew it was sometimes unavoidable. At least these men’s blood wouldn’t be on his hands.

  The deep scowl returned to Kaden’s face and he retreated to himself. Pup lay by his side, growling at anyone who neared them. Kaden never reproached him, because he did, after all, want to be left alone.

  Chapter 6

  A crowd was gathered at the Remor city gate, welcoming their prince. Men stood proud, women waved, girls threw flowers, and children ran alongside the carriage. It wasn’t a common occurrence to have someone from the royal family visit the city, even though it was the biggest one this fa
r west and the capital of the Western Province. They were immediately led to the town’s best Inn; The Witchery.

  Magnus started barking commands even before the carriage with Olivia and Charlie stopped. He ordered for their armors to be fixed, called for the best healers and at least four tailors. Things needed to get done, fast. Magnus just wanted to get away from the Province as fast as possible, an uneasiness creeping up on him for not having witnessed the dragon’s death. Surely, the monster was dead.

  Olivia tried to open the carriage door once it had stopped, but it was held closed by Cassiel, the brown skinned knight with the kind, soft eyes.

  He gave her a sympathetic smile. “My lady, you need to be properly announced as the future queen. Please cooperate with the prince. It is for your own good.”

  The crowd outside erupted in a cheer. Olivia glanced over at Charlie who just shrugged in return. “He likes the attention.”

  “And I do not,” murmured Olivia, more to herself.

  Magnus had a whole speech ready, praising the Province, the people, the scenery. He told them about his quest to kill the dragon, and how his sword had felled the beast. With a flourish, he described how he had rescued a maiden from the clutches of the beast, how they had fallen in love at first sight. Olivia was nauseated after listening him weave his story. She remembered the truth. And the only comfort Charlie had to offer was to hold Olivia’s hand.

  Once Magnus was done, he walked over to the coach to help Olivia out.

  He opened the door of the carriage, but Olivia stayed seated and Charlie quickly snatched her hand away. Magnus frowned at them, his gaze bouncing back and forth between the two, before settling on Charlie.

  “I hope you have been on your best behaviour, Charlie.” He growled under his breath, glaring at Charlie. She hugged herself and nodded.

  “She has been nothing but kind,” Olivia said. “I appreciate your cousin’s companionship.”

  Magnus’ eyes snapped toward Olivia. “Get out… princess,” he snarled. “The people are waiting. Do not embarrass me.”

  Lips pursed, Olivia tilted her chin up, challenging his authority.

  Eyes narrowed, Magnus’ lips stretched into a malicious grin. “That’s it, puppet. Defy me. It’ll make punishing you that much sweeter.”

  He ducked back outside, addressing the crowd once again.

  “Your future queen is a sweet, shy woman, still under the impression of the events that led to our fateful meeting. Please, let her hear your encouragement, your support.”

  The crowd roared outside.

  “Better do as he says… He will punish you. He does not make threats lightly,” Charlie said as she retreated further away from the door.

  Olivia’s eyes widened at the implication as she turned her attention to Charlie. “Has he–”

  Magnus reached inside and grabbed Olivia by the back of her head, pulling her forward. It appeared as if he were protecting her from bumping her head on the way out. He gave her one of his bright charming smiles, showing off his dimples. His hand was over her sore stitches, squeezing lightly, just enough to hurt. Olivia held back a wince, and her heart raced at the vicious manhandling. Knowing she could not win this round, she took her first tentative step outside.

  Magnus leaned closer to hiss a threat into her ear while maintaining a loving smile on his face. “Be a good puppet, my princess.”

  Olivia nodded.

  Once the introduction was finally over, Olivia was exhausted and her head was throbbing. As she was escorted into the Inn by Damien, one of the prince’s scouts, she glanced over her shoulder and saw Theo, the red-haired scout, leading her horse to the Inn stables. Damien noticed the worried look on her face and followed her gaze.

  “Don’t worry,” Damien said, surprising Olivia for it was the first time she had heard him speak, “She’s in good hands with Theo. What’s her name?”

  Olivia looked up into his dark blue eyes and said, “Starlite.”

  Damien smiled, and led her gently inside.

  The third floor of the Inn was reserved for Prince and his company. Magnus, Olivia and Charlie each had their own private quarters, while the others shared in pairs.

  Donovan, the young healer, visited Olivia first since he had noticed her ashen face during Magnus’s introduction. He checked her injuries, the splint on her hand and the stitches on her head, the latter being slightly irritated. He made her a concoction to soothe the headache.

  As soon as he left, Olivia’s eyelids grew heavy, a dizziness overtaking her. What was in that tea? She stumbled toward the bed, just in time to sprawl upon the green, finely stitched quilt. Sleep claimed her instantly.

  Chapter 7

  The next day went on without incident for Kaden. As they drew closer to what they had been told was the Moore estate, he grew anxious. His heartbeat picked up and the butterflies took flight in his stomach. His palms were sweating but cold, nervous jitters made him restless.

  It was the thought of finally seeing Olivia again, to be able to hold her tight in his arms... He hoped.

  Pup and Mousse picked up on his distress. The mare sped up her pace, and Pup tagged along on the left, yipping up at Kaden.

  Uncertainties filled his mind. What will she think of me? Am I too late? It has been over a week... Will she believe it is me?

  The doubts had him slowing the mare as he looked down at Pup. “I'm alright, boy. Ready to see Olivia again?” The sound of a voice from behind him had Kaden snapping his head up and looking over his shoulder at Rhett.

  “Master Underwood, everything alright?” Rhett asked as he narrowed his eyes at Kaden; he had been behaving more and more strangely.

  “Just anxious to see an old friend again.” His smile never reached his eyes. “Please call me Kaden.”

  Rhett shook his head. “Tis an old habit that’s hard to break. Maybe … you could help us out with them Moore’s, huh? Get us some trade goin’?”

  “I will see what I can do.” Kaden’s attention was then diverted by the sight they came upon. They rounded a curve in the road, leaving the trees and the beaten road behind them. It was the Moore estate, a major part of it surrounded by a dark wooden fence. Parallel to it was the now cobbled road which led the way to the family castle. It really was a castle, but a small one, no bigger than an average noble’s mansion. They were quite secluded, living a private life, from what he had heard. Away from the noble and royal politics. They were people who liked the simple life, with no unnecessary societal complications.

  A smile crept onto Kaden’s face at the sight of the castle. Finally!

  In the fenced field, a man was riding a beautiful black stallion. When he spotted the merchants, he rode to greet them.

  “Good day,” the man nodded in greeting. “May I help you?”

  “Good day. good sir,” said Rhett as he pulled the wagon to a halt next to the fence. He concentrated on speaking properly, “We’re looking to trade with the masters of the estate.”

  The man on the other side of the fence looked them over before responding. They were all very protective of each other on the estate, everyone was like family. “Aye, Lady Moore is usually interested in exotic seeds and new fabrics… but I don’t think you’d have luck today.”

  “Why’s so?”

  “They’re in a bit of a mood. Their daughter is gone.” The sad lilt in his voice made it sound like it was his own daughter that had gone away.

  Kaden’s mind worked frantically… she’s gone….she’s gone… Didn’t she make it back? Did something happen? He got off Mousse and walked closer to the fence, leading the mare by the reins, Pup following them.

  “What do you mean gone?” Kaden asked as he looked up at the man on the other side of the fence. Mousse lowered her head down and nibbled on the fresh grass. She bumped away the stallion with her head when he tried to steal her bite as he pushed his head through the fence. Pup, the ever loyal companion to Kaden, merely sat by his feet.

  “Left with Prince Magnus an
d his knights.”

  Kaden closed his eyes, searching for inner calm. His heart drummed a crescendo, as anger smoldered within him. A quietness settled around him, and as he opened his eyes, he noticed that everyone waited, watching him warily. Unintentionally, they leaned away from him, the aura of danger strong around him.

  “Olivia left with him willingly?” He couldn’t believe what he was hearing. Why would she go with him? What had really happened?

  The man shifted nervously. “You know Miss Olivia?”

  “Yes,” Kaden responded tersely.

  “From where? You don’t look familiar and I’ve never seen you around. What is your name, sir?”

  “My name is Kaden Underwood. We met while she was away from home recently.”

  There was a moment of silence between the two, and no one felt like intruding. Looks were exchanged, until the man nodded.

  “I’m the stable master of the house and Livvie is almost like my own daughter… So if she considers you a friend…” The stable master knew something had been wrong with Olivia. He remembered the one time they had let him visit with her while she was still recovering. She was asleep though. He had heard her whimper that name, pleadingly, searching for him.

  “Thank you.” Kaden bowed his head. “Mind sharing what happened and where Miss Moore has gone?”

  “Aye…” The stable master shuffled the horse away from the curious ears of the caravan. Kaden followed.

  The man sighed. “About a week ago, she was brought home by the prince and his men… after she had… disappeared. She was hurt and unconscious.” The statement drew a hiss from Kaden’s lips. He was barely holding himself in check, this new level of rage surprised him. The man continued, “We were told that the prince and his men saved her from a dragon. Killed the beast and took her home. Apparently, he had fallen in love with our Livvie and asked for her hand in marriage.”

  The stable master exhaled. He didn’t like Olivia going off with the Prince. And he had good instincts, they made him the excellent horse trainer that he was. “She agreed and left with him for the crown city.”