The Rising Past: Book 2 in The Keepers of the Orbs Series

by J. G. Gatewood

  The Dragon groaned. I appreciate your help. You provided enough of a distraction for me to get loose.

  Raythum looked startled. Could this be the actual voice from earlier?, he wondered and took a second look. He felt disoriented, as if it were a trick on his eyes, and maybe his ears too.

  “I’m glad you’re okay.” He noticed a river of red blood flowing down her neck from beneath her thick scales. “What is your name?” he asked.

  She turned her head to look at him and growled from the pain. Shocked that they seemed to communicate telepathically with one another, she responded. My name is Milenthia, leader of the Bronze Wing. She paused while she tried to stretch out her neck. You happened upon me at just the right time, and for that, I’m thankful.

  He cocked his head, intrigued by the way she spoke to him through his mind without making a sound. He wondered if he could communicate in the same manner. Milenthia, can you hear me?

  Of course, I can. I’m sorry... I don’t believe I ever caught your name.

  He opened his lips to speak, but caught himself. My name is Raythum Stormdragon. I’m heir to Havenbrook. She bowed her head in his direction. He grabbed his canteen and walked closer to her. If you don’t mind, I’m going to examine the wound on your neck. He poured water to clear away the blood. He removed his gloves and peeled back a scale. The cut appeared to be about a foot long, and cut into the skin below her scales.

  He patted her neck. I think you are going to be just fine in a couple of days. Who were those men who attacked you?

  I’m afraid they were Dragon poachers who were after my scales and teeth. I found this large clearing that I thought would conceal me so I could take a nap. I’ve been flying for several days on a return trip from Buldeer in the southeast. I’d been resting for several hours and grogginess had overwhelmed me when they snuck up and drugged me. You came upon me thereafter. I hate to think what could’ve happened without your quick thinking.

  I just happened to be in the right place at the right time. He grinned. Can you fly with your wound?

  Stand back and let me try. She gleamed with pride as she straightened a bit. She knew she provided a sight to behold.

  Raythum walked back to the edge of the clearing as Milenthia spread her wings and buffeted them. He saw the pain this caused. There must’ve been some muscle or nerve damage after all.

  That’s enough, I think you will need a couple of days to heal before you will be going anywhere.

  She groaned. My schedule will be set back a few days, but I don’t believe there is any way around it. She curled back up and rested her head on the ground. Once again, thank you. You can feel free to be on your way. Raythum noticed how uncomfortable she seemed to get, and truth be told…he worried for her.

  If you like, I can stay with you for a couple of days. I have nowhere else to be, and to be honest I could use the company.

  She snorted. The heir to Havenbrook has nothing better to do than keep a wounded Dragon company? By all means, stay if you like. I don’t know if I will be much company, though. I tend to keep to my own kind and haven’t had much interaction with Humans.

  He walked over and sat down by her. There has been a lot of change in my life, and I decided to take some time on my own to travel and come to terms with my new position. So, I have a bit of free time on my hands .He looked up at her with a grin. So it would seem we have some time to get to know one another.

  Milenthia seemed to ease into her repose with Raythum so near, and found she liked the idea of his presence. Your new position? Haven’t you always been the heir?

  Raythum chuckled. No, I’m the younger son. My father recognized traits in my brother he deemed unacceptable in a ruler, so he arranged a test by an old wizard, Norlun.

  She cocked her head when she recognized the old man’s name. He realized this and asked, Do you know him?

  She shook her head. No, I don’t know him, but I do know of him. She paused and considered her words. He is well respected by my kind, with an interesting history dating back several centuries. She paused…So you are coming to terms with being the heir?

  No, I have accepted the position and feel as if I have been training for it my entire life. I have built myself around a code of honor, putting my people at the forefront of everything I do.

  Considering what she knew of Norlun, she seemed interested in learning more of her new friend and pressed him further. Then what is your new position?

  He couldn’t reveal too much about the Keepers, but he felt so comfortable with Milenthia and it just seemed natural.

  Have you ever heard of the orbs? Her eyes widened. Like he suspected, and judging by her response she did, so he didn’t wait for more and continued. Upon my completion of the test, Norlun deemed me worthy, and inducted me as a member of the Havenbrook branch of the Keepers.

  They talked well into the night and he continued to answer her questions as they shared their own backgrounds, drawing ever closer to one another.

  Several days passed and Milenthia declared herself fit for trying to fly again. Raythum inspected her wound, which looked to have healed. He stepped back and let her spread her wings, and soon watched as she soared up into the sky. A grin filled his face. He was happy for his new friend. She circled the clearing and came back down, buffeting her wings, sending dirt and leaves through the air in a ferocious bout of wind. Her glorious scales reflected the sun with each move she made.

  He drew closer and ran his hand down her snout. He looked deep into her black eyes and said, I’m glad you’re healed, and I’m more than honored to have made your acquaintance. It has been my pleasure.

  Milenthia met his gaze and started to speak, but a piercing white light filled both of their eyes, blinding them both. Thunder rippled through the blue summer sky, and a strike of pain, like a lightning bolt, filled their heads at the same time. Raythum bent over as he dealt with the uncomfortable shock running through his body. As quickly as it came on, it retreated.

  Suddenly Raythum no longer felt alone. He felt different…more complete somehow. It felt as though another consciousness co-mingled within the small confines of his head. He felt several feelings which weren’t his own. But it wasn’t uncomfortable somehow…it felt natural. What was that? I mean, what just happened? Are you in my mind? I mean, not just your words like before, but you?

  I cannot believe it. He felt and heard the joy and excitement filling her voice. We have bonded! This hasn’t happened between our two races in generations. I mean, we’re still bonded with several Elves, but the last bonding with a Human has to be over a thousand years ago. This is incredible!

  He wore a perplexed look. We are bonded? What in the world do you mean by bonded?

  She got up on her feet and began to pace around the clearing. Well, as much as she could pace considering her size. He didn’t know what to call her gait, but if a Dragon could skip, he felt pretty sure this is what it would look like.

  We are bonded, as in our minds are joined; sharing a unique connection which cannot be severed.

  Whoa, our minds are joined and it can’t be severed? I don’t understand. How did this happen? I didn’t ask for it. His forehead creased as he frowned.

  Nobody asks for it, Raythum. It’s just something that happens. A thousand years ago when bonding happened frequently, both of our races were much more careful. I didn’t even think about it since it hasn’t happened in so long. Besides, it isn’t as if any Dragon and any Human can have a conversation and be bonded. It doesn’t happen that way. It has to be the right Dragon and the right Human to make it work. The fact it happened between the two of us, well… I can only describe it as destiny. She looked delighted with her analysis.

  Raythum harrumphed. I don’t believe in destiny. What I want to know is how this is going to affect us? He could feel her lack of understanding of his position, which added to his own frustration.

  We are no longer individuals, I mean we are, but now all of our actions will be in sync. I can only
begin to dream of the things we will accomplish together. Especially with you as a Keeper.

  Confusion bombarded Raythum’s thoughts. I don’t understand what you are implying. What does my being a Keeper have to do with anything?

  Milenthia chuckled. I forgot, forgive me. I realize you have no idea what I’m talking about because there hasn’t been a Human rider in generations.

  She realized she could solve the problem of his misunderstanding rather easily. Prepare your mind. She sent as many visions as she could conjure from her memory of Dragons and their riders. Subtle tickling prickled his brain as the memories flooded his consciousness. She watched as dawning crept on his face. Do you understand now?

  Yes. So, I’m a Dragon rider. Wonder filled him as he grasped at comprehension. She could feel his insecurity and she understood why. So much had happened to him in the past few months. So much in his life had changed, and with change came a whole new level of responsibility. And now this bonding would be added to the list of things he had to make sense of and quickly.

  I can understand your apprehension and fear, Raythum, but we will take it slow. This is as it must be. It is our destiny, whether you believe it not…we are linked.

  He picked up on the calming sensations she sent his way. It helped to relieve his fears. I know you mentioned taking it slow, but what do we do now? I mean, I have no idea how to even ride a Dragon. The new realization startled and excited him, but left him perplexed too.

  She knelt down as a mischievous grin crossed her face. Climb on my back and let’s try. Hold on to my neck, but be gentle. My injury isn’t fully healed.

  He followed her instructions and climbed on. He situated himself and grabbed a hold of her neck. He almost cut his arm on her rough-edged scales—he would certainly have to get used to this. Sensing he seemed ready, she jumped up in the air and let her wings carry them high into the sky.

  Dragon Rider Training

  They spent the rest of the day soaring through the sky, both of them filled with excitement and elation. They made their way to Milenthia’s home, Agripina, located deep in the Diseperia mountain range far to the north of Askabar. The Dragon city sat far above the tree line between two craggy peaks. The temperature was far colder than Raythum was prepared for, but he survived by the extra warmth provided by Milenthia’s body.

  Raythum didn’t know what to expect of the city. It consisted of a large series of caves carved into the rocky surface of the peaks. Many of the Dragons didn’t seem pleased by his presence. They met with the elders and explained the situation. At first they seemed to be very reluctant, but after several boring and drawn- out days of debate and discussion, they acquiesced. They allowed their bond to remain, and agreed he would be trained in the ways of the riders. Arrangements commenced and they made haste for Ferrindale to learn from the Elven Dragon riders.

  Just like their arrival in Agripina, they weren’t immediately welcomed in Ferrindale either. The Queen, Pirphul, agreed and ordered the Elven Dragon riders to work with Raythum and Milenthia. Most of them didn’t seem pleased to be assigned the task. Most Elves didn’t like, nor trust Humans and it showed.

  Several Elves greeted Raythum and Milenthia in a large clearing in the middle of several thick clumps of trees amidst the burning heat of the afternoon sun. He noticed the awkward stares and sidelong glances the pair received as he dismounted her back. In an uncomfortable sea of strangers, he noticed one Elf paid him quite a bit of attention. He had gray eyes and hair as white as snow, flowing over his back. Upon making eye contact with Raythum, the Elf walked over.

  “Welcome to Ferrindale. My name is Morlidon.”

  Raythum bowed. “My name is Raythum.” He turned and pointed to the Dragon. “And this is Milenthia. We thank you for welcoming us into your realm.”

  Morlidon stared at him long and hard. “I know who you are. And don’t thank me. I didn’t allow you into our realm.” He smiled. “Our queen made the decision on her own.” He turned and looked at a path. “She should be down any moment. Unfortunately, she likes to make an entrance.”

  Right on cue, a guard pulled out a wooden flute and played a high-pitched tune to gain everyone’s attention. He looked toward the guard who stood at the base of a long spiraling root serving as a staircase winding around the trunk of a large tree. A procession made its way down, led by a woman in a flowing green gown. It fell to the floor and trailed her in a train. The deep green blended in with the surroundings, acting as a sort of camouflage. Following behind her were six Elven guards carrying long halberds.

  He caught her eye and she hid a smile as she approached. He noticed how regal she appeared as she walked, not displaying her true age of a couple hundred years. “Hello Raythum. I am Pirphul, Queen of the Elves of Ferrindale.” She smiled, her face flawless and smooth, the color of olives.

  He dropped his body in obeisance. She grabbed his face and pulled it back up. “Please, there is no need for you to bow to me. I should be bowing to you.” She offered him a smile. “I never thought I would see a Human Dragon rider again. This will start a new era, and will change the face of Askabar.” Her voice sounded soft and calming, making him feel at home.

  “I have to say, it surprised me too. Never did I expect to be in a position like this.”

  “I think we were all a bit surprised. I would like to welcome you to Ferrindale. Everything we have to offer is at your disposal. We will provide quarters for both you and Milenthia throughout your training. Morlidon—whom I see you’ve already met— Erualan, and Irrian will all serve as your guides as you master your new craft.”

  “I thank you for what you’re doing and for your gracious hospitality.” She smiled at his courteous words.

  “There is no need to thank me. I’m doing this as a favor to the Dragon elders.” She motioned toward the root pathway. “If you please, we have prepared a dinner in your honor,” she said.

  “Yes of course, my lady. Please lead the way.” He followed her procession, where several other Elves joined them. He sensed Milenthia off in a clearing hunting for her own dinner. He hated the pomp and circumstance, but understood they were doing him a favor, so he had little choice.

  The first few days of training were difficult. He hadn’t had much experience thus far riding a Dragon and they worked on balance and control. They worked from sunup to sundown and his body bordered on giving up at times. His muscles ached and every fiber of his being told him he should quit, but he fought through the pain and continued on. However, the food didn’t help to fortify him at all. The Elves didn’t eat meat, so he had to adapt. He feasted on fruits and vegetables only, which never satisfied his hunger. He found it difficult at first, but his body begrudgingly adjusted.

  Morlidon had been accepting and very helpful after his initial reservations passed and he grew mor comfortable. Erualan and Irrian had been less congenial, but he planted the seeds of trust, and they seemed to be warming up to him.

  A long week had passed and they began working on more difficult techniques. The morning felt cool, and the grass still glistened from the accumulated dew. Raythum arrived early and waited for the others with has back propped against Milenthia. Erualan and Irrian arrived together with smug looks upon both their faces.

  Erualan walked over to Raythum and bid him a good morning. “I hope you slept well. Today we are going to pick things up a bit.” The smug grin stretched farther on his face. Raythum tried to speak, but Erualan cut him off. “We have spent a lot of time teaching you how to ride Milenthia. While this is important, it is by far the easiest element of being a Dragon rider. What is the main goal of being an effective Dragon rider?”

  This caught Raythum off guard. He hadn’t anticipated questions. “Staying on Milenthia’s back?”

  “You’re right, maintaining your mount is quite important, but it isn’t the main goal of a good Dragon rider.” Erualan watched as the smile disappeared from Raythum’s face. “As a rider you are tasked with being an excellent fighter too. There are s
ignificant advantages associated with fighting from your Dragon’s back. But you cannot fight while sitting, can you?”

  Raythum shook his head. He had a pretty good idea of what would come next, and he started to grow nervous.

  “Good! Then you understand your next phase of training?” Irrian jumped in to join the light conversation, wearing his own self-satisfied grin to match Erualan’s.

  Raythum nodded his head, indicating he understood while he tried to keep from squirming…

  Erualan and Irrian both registered Raythum’s look. He thought he understood what they expected from the next phase of training, but having gone through it before, they knew the training would be difficult for a week or two, at least. Irrian did his best to maintain his even stare, but Erualan couldn’t help but allow a grin to form.

  Noticing the struggle of his compatriot, Irrian stepped in and issued orders to Raythum.

  “To be a rider, you must move freely on you Dragon’s back. You need to move to attack. To dodge. You have to have the full faith in your Dragon that he or she will understand your every movement, and will remain steady while you are in motion. Do you understand?”

  Raythum shook his head. He found it difficult to comprehend without ever doing it, but this is why he needed the training.

  Erualan seized the moment and jumped in. “You have to trust Milenthia. This is why you will become airborne. Once you are in the air you will stand up and practice walking back and forth from neck to tail, while Milenthia maintains an even course. If you fall, Milenthia should be prepared enough to catch you, and stop you from hitting the ground. Are you ready?”

  Raythum stepped back, unable to fully grasp what the Elf had just asked of him. Both of the Elves had already undertaken this training on their own, and not wanting to look like a fool he agreed. He couldn’t help but feel fear for his own safety, though, but he had no choice. He nodded to Milenthia and began the climb onto her back.