by Crymsyn Hart
She sensed his anger and his sorrow. Kestrel had noticed over the centuries that fewer spellcasters were coming to the Athenaeum with their dragons. “I agree that you should intervene. I just don’t want you to get hurt.”
He cupped her face. “I’m not going to die like Castigan. I’m going to be here with you. Always. It’s time we showed them I’m not a legend. By the way, Ralag is coming with us.”
“Why?”
“He says it’s something he has to do. He didn’t get specific on it, only that this meeting was written about years ago. The outcome will determine the change in our race or something. He keeps all the lore. I’ve never paid much attention to it. I’m flying with him.”
“Dathan is going to wonder why you aren’t coming.”
“You can tell him I’m following on horseback. I don’t want him to know who I am. Not yet. It’ll be okay. Are you ready? I know Dathan was already getting set to go. I was coming to rouse you when I sensed you were awake.”
A sly smile played upon her lips. “After last night, I’m surprised you let me sleep this long. I’m ready, but I need to eat something.”
He leaned in and kissed her. “I knew you were going to say that. That’s why I brought you some food. It’s on the table.” He gestured.
A tray filled with fruit and a bowl of steaming porridge awaited her. She trailed her hands down his chest and went to eat. When she was done, they gathered their things and met up with Dathan and Pena. They waited for them on the ledge. Ralag was there as well. She smiled when she saw him. He had stopped giving her lessons after Andrik insisted. She hadn’t objected.
“Ready?” Dathan asked. She saw the relief in his eyes knowing she was there. The scars on his face had receded some. The healer had been able to help him.
Pena lowered her wing so Kestrel could climb onto her back. “Let’s go. Andrik will be following on horseback. Ralag is waiting for his dragon. He’ll follow us shortly.”
“I don’t see why the old man has to come anyway.”
Kestrel poked the spellcaster in the ribs. “Because he knows more about dragon magic than anyone I’ve ever met. So hush, and let’s go.”
She settled her arm around Dathan’s waist, and then Pena dove off the ledge. The air whooshed around them until she opened her wings and began to ascend higher. Kestrel sensed the urgency in the dragon as they flew. She glanced behind her and saw a black dot catching up to them and knew it was Ralag and Andrik.
They flew through the day and into the early evening. When they stopped, they all ate in silence. Kestrel settled near Ralag. She stared up at the sky, contemplating what was going to greet them when they arrived at the encampment at the base of the Northern Mountains. Were events from the past going to repeat themselves? She prayed to the gods that they wouldn’t. Ralag placed a hand on her knee.
“You already seem as if the world is going to end. You have to have faith.”
“I haven’t had faith in a long time. Not until recently.”
Andrik nudged her back until she giggled. She patted him on the nose and then stared back into the fire. The old part of her was returning, the one who had gotten her into so much trouble. She would only use her powers if needed. Hopefully the war would end once her mate revealed who he was. Andrik poked her again until she relaxed some.
“Andrik said you came along to see the outcome of the fight. That it was written about long ago. What did that mean?”
Ralag patted her knee. “If the writings are true, then we will see the birth of a legend. The drakin will rise from its ashes and—”
“So Ralag, Kes tells me you know more about dragon magic than anyone she’s ever met.”
Ralag eyed Dathan. “That’s true, young man. I would say I do.”
“Did you bond with one of the dragons in the mountain? Is that why you know so much? The Athenaeum knows very little about the wild dragons, only that the king rules over all dragons. We caught a small glimpse of him while we were there confirming that legend.”
“It’s true the dragons in Blaze Mountain are somewhat different than the dragons who choose the spellcasters. But their power and fire are the same. Their origin is the same. The dragons are under the jurisdiction of the dragon king. It’s about time they remembered that. You might find none of them want to fight the war.”
“So you’re saying that you’re so powerful that you can break the bond between human and dragon? That you can free them from our slavery?” Dathan snarled.
Kestrel glanced between the both of them. Ralag had a faraway look to his eye. Dathan’s ire was rising. The burn on his face had been healed somewhat. The edges and the swirls of the skin on his face were smoother and had retreated some. The area around his eye had the more remarkable recovery. The skin was back to normal. He was even able to use his arm. Maybe with a few more healings he could get back to normal.
“Of course I can’t break the connection between you. It’s a fundamental part of the dragon. Don’t you know the old legends about why humans and dragons are bonded together?”
“Enlighten me.”
“Before humans knew magic, the dragons ruled the sky. The king of the dragons had no mate. One day he came upon a maid and was instantly drawn to her. She was frightened, but he told her he would never hurt her. Their fondness grew, and they fell in love. Dragons and humans can’t mate, so the king prayed to the gods so he could be with her. One night he awoke and found he was human. The young woman was frightened by his appearance, but he proved he was the dragon by showing her his fire. He took her for his mate. When he did, he transferred a small part of his essence inside of her so she would have his longevity.
“He found that he could shift back and forth to both forms even though she could not.” Ralag recited the legend of the dragonkin to Dathan.
Dathan snorted. “So you’re saying that all spellcasters are the human reflection of a dragon. The dragon’s drive to bond with us is because they need to find their lost humanity?”
“Yes. That’s exactly it. All fables are based in reality somewhere along the line. I am over three thousand years old. You tell me that doesn’t make me an expert on things.” Ralag winked at Kestrel. She chuckled and then shut her eyes.
The next morning Dathan said they would reach the camp later that day. Her apprehension grew the closer they got. Pena strained to fly faster. When they brought Kestrel to Blaze Mountain, it had been at a leisurely pace. They could have cut the flight down a day if Dathan had truly wanted.
As they circled the camp, Kestrel saw the valley below huddled by mountains on all sides. The only way to get in and out was by air or a few small paths she saw carved into the slopes. Dozens of tents were huddled together, and other dragons flew low, patrolling for the rogues. Pena settled down a little way from the camp. They slid off her.
“Is your husband going to be able to find us? The route into this place is perilous on horseback.” Dathan asked.
“He’ll be here for sure. Not to worry.”
“Humph. Come on. We can get something to eat and find out what’s been going on.”
Dathan walked toward the encampment. Kestrel followed with Ralag behind her. Andrik wound his mind through hers so he could hear everything said. She enjoyed having him close and was glad he had come. His love filled her, and she held her head up. She didn’t know what to expect when she met the other spellcasters who were leading the offensive. All she could think of was the rejection she was going to be met with. After all the years she had lived in the shadows, now was the time she was going to be thrust into the light.
They walked to the largest tent. Inside was a cacophony of voices. All talking ceased when Dathan walked in with Kestrel behind him. Five other spellcasters were inside. Three of them she recognized. The other two she did not. The roar of a dragon filled her ears. One of the spellcasters she didn’t know came over to her and stuck his hand out. He was shorter than her, with a few strands of white hair clinging to his head. His skin was trans
lucent and his pale eyes sparkled with power. He clasped her shoulders with his hands.
“It is good to see you, Kestrel. We were afraid that you wouldn’t wish to return or get here in time. We launch our offensive tomorrow.”
She gave him a small smile. “I almost didn’t. Forgive me, but who are you?”
He backed away and gave her a small bow. “Beg pardon. I’m Tridan. I head the athenaeum in Florac. My companion is my great niece, Shala. She is new among our ranks only having been chosen by a dragon a couple of years ago. But there is speculation that she could rival your power. Before you were given the gift of the dragon fire, of course. The other three you know.”
She looked at the other two men and one middle-aged woman. They all nodded at her. Their animosity was apparent. She had never been to the other athenaeum. If Tridan was the headmaster there, then maybe she could pick his brain after the attack. She studied the young girl. Her look was exotic, with midnight hair and tanned skin. Her blue eyes were spaced far apart. Kestrel sensed something about her.
“Well, I’m happy to be of service. It—”
“Why are we attacking in the morning? I thought we had more time,” Dathan interjected. He threw his gloves down on the table and then poured himself a goblet of wine. He offered it to her, but she shook her head. She never liked to drink after a long flight. It took her stomach a while to catch up to itself.
One of the spellcasters she knew stepped forward. She wracked her memory for a name. Harnish. His blue robes were tattered, and the dark circles under his eyes told of some sleepless nights. “We sent an emissary into their camp with a letter so we could resolve this peacefully. The last thing we want is another war. We lost so many. They sent back the envoy’s head in a sack with a note attached to it saying they didn’t wish any discussions. They want to order a new regime. One where the strongest rules.”
“I had heard talk among the Athenaeum before it was attacked that some thought we should march upon Blaze Mountain to the dragon king and take over his seat of power. I thought it was only talk.” The middle-aged spellcaster met Kestrel’s eyes and then looked away. Her gray hair hung over her shoulder. Her name was Moira. She had also said nasty things behind Kestrel’s back when Moira was around.
Kestrel heard the low growl of disapproval in her mind. Her mate was not happy about what he was hearing. He didn’t like the fact the others had talked about marching on his home. She glanced around and saw a map spread out on the table. The rogues were camped near the Athenaeum, a few hours’ flight from where they were. It was still a stronghold. They had a huge disadvantage if they were going to be attacking in the morning.
“May I make a suggestion?” Ralag asked. He stepped into the tent and approached the party.
“Who are you?” Harnish asked.
“Name’s Ralag. I’m from Blaze Mountain. I represent the dragon king’s subjects. Plus, I might be able to aid in the attack if need be. Although I’m hoping that won’t be necessary.”
“And why is that? Do you think you can walk into the rogues’ encampment and tell them to lay down their arms and not use magic? Or tell their dragons not to listen to their spellcasters? The dragons and the humans are of one mind. If the spellcasters wish to attack, the dragons will obey.” This was Therin. He was always outspoken. He had spread rumors about her early on after Castigan had died. “I don’t even know why this outcast is back. Just because she can wield dragon fire doesn’t mean she’s going to be any good to us. She has no dragon. No one would get near her after she caused the death of her last one. And how can you speak for the king’s subjects? Why aren’t you here speaking for the king himself? Or is there really a king?”
All heads turned as a voice boomed from the tent’s entrance. “I can assure you there is.”
Kestrel smiled as she saw Andrik had entered the tent. He gave her a small smile. He was dressed differently than when she had seen him before. He was regal. His long ebony hair hung loose. He wore an outfit made entirely of black silk and embroidered with gold and silver thread that bore the images of a dragon. Around his neck was a golden torque with two dragon heads roaring at one another. His sword was at his waist, and his arms were left bare except for golden armbands.
Ralag bowed deeply. “My lord prince, you do us a great honor with your presence.”
The other spellcasters were flabbergasted. Tridan was the first one to recover and bowed before the prince. Kestral curtseyed and heard Dathan draw in a breath to make a comment, but she shook her head and prayed he wouldn’t say anything. His mouth twisted into a frown, but he remained silent.
“Please, I didn’t come here for such formalities. I came here to stop the war. Communications between our two peoples should have been opened a long time ago. I regret that, but now I have come to rectify that. My father is too ill to join us. You said that you plan to attack tomorrow. I have spoken with the other dragons around the camp, and all are in agreement that they do not wish to fight. They will if they have to, but none of them want a repeat of what happened before. I—”
“Forgive me, Your Highness, but how can you speak to all the dragons? I don’t mean to sound ignorant, but if you truly are from Blaze Mountain and speak for the dragon king, how do you propose to bring peace between all of us?” Harnish asked.
“Harnish, what you should be asking yourself is if he can persuade the dragons not to attack. Then we would have a great advantage over the rogues,” Dathan said.
Andrik glanced at Dathan. “That’s true, you would, but I would also order your dragons not to attack. Harnish, is it? I understand your speculation about my heritage. Blaze Mountain has been veiled in mystery for years. Our subjects who live in the mountain and at its base are very secretive about our ways. Years of tradition and all. To answer your question, the royal bloodline is able to speak to all dragons. And if not, Kestrel can answer for me, as she is unique in that way.”
She kept her face down. “I appreciate the prince’s belief in me.”
Dathan stepped forward. “I suggest that you take his proposal under consideration. I would avoid a war if we could. And Harnish, if you truly believe that your dragon is your slave, then you are sorely mistaken. They choose us because they want to. Not because anyone makes them.” Dathan walked out of the tent. Kestrel glanced back at the others. They went back to talking amongst themselves.
“My lord prince.” She walked past Andrik and left him alone. Ralag and he remained. He would tell her what was going on once they were done arguing. He caught her arm.
“You should stay, too.”
“If His Highness wishes, but I think my presence unnerves the others who already dislike that I’m here. Let them hash it out. I think yours is the best solution. Have the other dragons really told you that?”
“They didn’t believe me at first, but when they saw me shift, word began to spread about who I truly was. They are all on my side now. I’ll see you back at our tent later,” he murmured.
The heat ignited in his smoldering gaze. Her cheeks burned. “I am at your disposal.”
“I love you.”
“I love you, too.” She ached to do more, but sensed he didn’t want to reveal the extent of their relationship to the others just yet. He released her. Kestrel left the tent and headed after Dathan.
Chapter Thirteen
Kestrel sat with Dathan by Pena’s wing, watching for Andrik and Ralag to emerge from the tent. She tried to focus on their link and hear what was going on inside, but she was too jumpy to focus. The talk in the camp and among the dragons was that everyone was anticipating war.
The party must have talked for an hour. At one point, Harnish stormed out. He paced around the camp, scowled at her, and when he cooled off, he went back inside. The other spellcasters kept a wide berth, but she sensed the camp was talking about her. Or the dragons were talking about the shift they had seen Andrik do. She assumed that was the first time any of the dragons had witnessed the transformation. With a deep breath,
she stood up and began to pace around the outskirts of the encampment to burn off her excess energy. When the moon began to rise, Andrik came over to them. Ralag limped behind.
“What’s the decision?” Dathan asked.
Ralag shook his head. “Half of them don’t believe he’s the dragon prince. They’ve consulted their dragons, but they’re not talking about what they saw.”
“What does that mean?” Kestrel asked.
Andrik placed his hands on her shoulders. “It means at first light they want us to go to war.”
“Can’t you show them? Transform for them?” she asked.
“What do you mean transform?” Dathan asked.
Her mate shook his head. “It wouldn’t do any good. They’ll say it’s an illusion that Ralag or you created. I won’t have you discredited by the other spellcasters when they are the ones who need you now.”
She began to tremble. “I’m not going into battle. I’m not going to risk losing you the way I lost Castigan.”
“And I can’t sit idly by and watch my people get slaughtered. Father should have come to the spellcasters generations ago. I should have done something.”
“This isn’t your fault. You didn’t know what was going to happen. I didn’t know that by me leaving a war would suddenly erupt.”
“Excuse me, but what do you mean by transformation?” Dathan inquired again.
Her mate glanced at him. “The story that Ralag told you last night about some of the dragons having two forms, dragonkin, were you listening to it?”
“Well, yes. But it’s just a story.”
Andrik sighed and swore under his breath. She ran her hand down his cheek. “Calm down. He doesn’t know. Many of the spellcasters wouldn’t believe your transformation unless they saw it. You’re going to have to show them. I know you don’t want to pull that out of your arsenal, but you just might have to. The other dragons believe you, but they’re keeping your secret.
