by E. W. SALOKA
“Thank you Tarr, I will return. That just happened right?,” he said to himself. “Things keep getting stranger every day.”
“Zachary prepare yourself, we have to cross through the mid-passage very soon. Were going through fast and precise and there is no room for error.” Xandar-Sym dove towards an arch of overhanging rocks under a cliff. “Hang on Zachary!” With a sudden burst of speed they entered the jagged opening. Plunging down through the dimly lit crevasse and zig-zagging all the way, made Zach remember a roller coaster ride from a favorite amusement park he and his friends frequented back home. He smiled until he felt a rock snag and rip the back of his riding jacket. He felt nothing and sighed thankfully. They took another quick hook to the left and they were out. Dredd, Ilsa, and Alghern were up ahead in that order. Xandar leveled off and picked up speed to catch up. They had lost some time with the shadow rider but now they were steadily gaining on the lead racers.
As they were all nearing the merge, Dredd and Payne had to avoid one of the larger circling birds, almost hitting it. Ilsa took advantage and advanced three dragon lengths ahead of Dredd. The end of the mountain course was quickly nearing. When they reached and passed the merge, Lash didn’t appear. He had fallen far behind. Azreen was too injured to keep the same pace as the others. Only finishing the race was their goal now.
Dredd and Payne were starting to close the gap that they lost a few hundred yards back. “Damn ugly bird” grumbled Dredd to himself. “We can do it Payne, C’mon boy.” Dredd knew how badly Ilsa and Sennah wanted this race. If victorious, Ilsa would hold it over his head for who knows how long. “C’mon Payne, lets go!”
“I know Dredd, but maybe it’s not our year. You’ve had the past three crowns and it might be time for another rider to enter Dragon Master Champion status.” Payne had wisdom in his words.
Dredd smiled, “ok old boy, you could be right.”
Zach and Xandar-Sym were catching up to the trio of raceriders. “Xandar, do you hear something?” As soon as he said that he felt a vibration near his hip. “It’s the singing stones!” He tugged at the pouch from his belt and held it in amazement. It sounded like Mella’s voice, soft as waters in a brook. “This is the warning; whatever the orc is planning must be soon.”
Zach listened as he heard the stones again.
“Find your courage deep inside, look and be aware.
Danger is upon you, there is danger everywhere.”
The group rounded the wide left arc and closed in on the Everdark Forest. The gloominess of it was apparent even at a distance and Zach could sense the darkness.
Black ugly limbed trees reached from the rolling, greasy mist that was like a living thing. Some said that the mist was the souls of beings that died there. If one would venture into the Everdark Forest and come out alive, they were never quite the same again. Darkness seemed to attach to them and stayed for the rest of their days. Never speaking of the experience, they lived a hollow and haunted existence. To stay above the mist was the only way to avoid this dreadful outcome. The living mist hugged the ground so you could outrun it by staying high above in the trees, but if one lingered too long it would surely seek you out and pursue.
Zach saw the orc make a quick move for something as he and Xandar came up quickly behind them. They pulled around Razorback to get between the orc and Dredd.
“I gotta try to warn him, Xandar get closer!” The wind whipped at Zach’s face as he called to the dragon.
“What do you think I’m doing boy, I saw it too.”
The sudden blast from the powerful beats of Xandar Sym’s wings forced the orc and his dragon to avoid the turbulence shortly interrupting the assassin’s concentration. Pulling closer to Dredd and Payne they were in position, shouting as loud as he could.
“Dredd, Dredd!” Zach tried to get his attention but couldn’t. Turning his head, he saw the assassin Alghern pulling a long barbed quill from his dragon’s flank. The orc seemed to whisper to the dragon spear, and then dipped the tip into a small pouch.
“Poison” whispered Zach, eyes widening.
Alghern looked up and saw Zach watching. He grinned menacingly, staring right into the horrified boy’s eyes. “Now” grunted the orc to Razorback, and they both turned their focus to Dredd.
Andi was in the highest branches of the tallest tree on the northern most edge of the Everdark Forest. She would have a perfect view of the Race Riders as they flew over. Her heightened strength, reflexes and amazing vision allowed her to track the orc’s attempt on her brother’s life. Andi braced herself.
With a murderous smile on his scarred face, the assassin orc and his dragon swooped up into the right of Dredd and Payne.
Holding her breath and taking careful aim, Andi drew back the arrow and slowly released it. The arrow traveled swiftly towards its target.
Raising the poisoned spear, Alghern began his forward thrust to end Dredd’s life.
The flying arrow drove into the orc, passing through his side. Exiting, the arrow hit Razorback’s wing joint, shattering it completely. Tumbling towards the forest then crashing through tree branches, Alghern hit the ground with a large thud. Catching his breath and in searing pain, the thick brush cushioned his fall. To his amazement, he was still alive. He rolled over onto his back and slowly opened his eyes. Falling towards him was Razorback, roaring with wings flailing. Alghern gasped his last breath as the plummeting dragon landed directly atop the stunned orc. Razorback lay there dazed for a few minutes, and then getting up, staggered off into the thick, dark forest. The swirling, living mist consumed what was left of the orc.
Andi smiled when she saw the end of the one trying to cut her little brother’s life short. “Yes, now how do I get out of here?” She wrinkled her brow and then saw Marquor hovering over the tree branch.
She nodded at Andi knowingly, “good job with the orc.”
Andi tossed her head back, “I have to thank his dragon for finishing the job for me, and justice is served.”
“Now let’s get you out of here, this place is just dreadful,” the dragon sniffed in disdain.
Zach raised his fist in victory as the orc met his brutal fate. Dredd and Payne came up alongside them. “Somebody saved your butt Dredd!” Zach shouted.
“Who?” yelled Dredd.
“I know who.” Zach was smiling from ear to ear. “Tell you later buddy, we’re still racing you know.”
Dredd let out a raucous laugh and pointed at Zach, “we have to catch Ilsa, let’s go!” They rode off swiftly, cruising above the last trees of the Everdark Forest.
Ilsa Ivey gave her dragon partner a quick pat on her neck “I think this is going to be our race after all.” Sennah gave her a backward glance. “No mistakes and we are home free girl.”
The entryway to Greenstone caverns was in sight. Payne made a quick dive for the Demon’s Jaw signaling to Zach and Xandar that the race was on again. The riders both passed down into the green glowing underground tube. There is that smell again thought Zach. Dredd and Payne were leading Zach and Xandar-Sym in follow the leader fashion. They flew swiftly around the many low hanging rock formations and Zach was once again enjoying the ride. As they progressed through, they could see the silhouette of Ilsa and Sennah in the approaching light of the caverns exit.
The last leg of the course was coming fast. Dredd wanted his fourth win and the rewards that came with it, not to mention the parcel of land that he and his sister had their eye on. Ilsa wanted the win to rub it in Dredd’s face, and she would be a part of race history as the first woman Dragon Master Champion.
Shortly they would be bursting out over Boggs Lake and heading towards the finish. Payne led Xandar-Sym up and out of the cavern at tremendous speed. They were keeping pace with one another as they came up over the lake. Crowds cheered the fast charging Race Riders.
Ilsa and Sennah were halfway over the lake and keeping a good lead. The large hot-air balloon turn marker was nearing quickly and Ilsa could taste victory.
P
ayne and Xandar hit a strong downbeat almost at the same time, propelling them high into the air. Tucking their wings in close, their speed increased incredibly. In an instant, they were rocketing closer and gaining on the leader. Ilsa and Sennah reached the balloon marker first and made a perfect sweeping left turn.
The sight of two massive dragons barreling towards him caused the official in the balloon to brace himself, holding on tight. “Not this time boys!” He yelled determinedly.
Dredd led Zach going around the turn before entering the Crunch. The long, narrow straight was teeming with cheering race fans. Ilsa and Sennah were pushing hard down the flag lined raceway. Holding the lead, appearing as a red-winged streak of lightning, they flew around the giant statue and headed for the finish.
Andi changed back into her race day outfit and went to join Colby as though nothing had happened. She gave him a kiss on the cheek and whispered in his ear. Thomas and Faazen were nearby and nearly hoarse from the excitement of the whoops and hollers. Daisy was there seated next to Thomas and Faazen. Andi linked her arm in Colby’s and winked at Faazen.
The wizard knew she had saved her brother from a certain and sudden death. Yes Miss Domino he thought, you certainly came to the rescue. She needed that moment to find her courage and then act upon it. The brave girl clearly deserved this moment in the sun.
Dredd knew the race was Ilsa’s this time, there was no way he could catch her. He and Zach would finish respectively second and third. Dredd and Payne came around the finish line. Zach and Xandar followed. Lash Beckett and Azzreen were out over the lake. Azzreen’s injury had worsened throughout the race, but he was determined to finish with courage and honor.
Once the Race Riders crossed the finish line, it was customary for them to take a low pass over the crowds. Ilsa and Sennah were in their glory as they cruised above the stunned and cheering fans. Dredd was waving to the people, but he was thinking to himself how the angel of luck had saved him today. Zach and Xandar-Sym were following them. Zach was just pleased to have finished in one piece.
“Not bad for your first race Zach, you showed courage and bravery today.”
“It was amazing Xandar. Thank you.” Zach was glowing with pride.” It was my pleasure boy,” the dragon nodded.
Lash Beckett was making the last turn around the statue and heading for the finish line. Azzreen’s wing was badly torn and the crowd clapped and cheered loudly for the injured dragon. Lash waved and nodded. Being in so much pain, Azzreen landed as soon as they reached the finish line. Beckett dismounted and took a deep bow, thinking the cheers were for him. As Azzreen turned and saw this, he was not too happy. Lash took another bow and as he came back up, the dragon’s tail smacked him solid on the rear and sent him flying a few yards. The surrounding crowd went silent for a moment, and then erupted in laughter and applause.
The orc crew watched the skies looking for Alghern but there was no sign of razorback and his rider. Seeing Dredd finish the race definitely did not bode well for their rider, as they knew what Alghern had planned for him. The nervous orcs snuck through the gathering crowd and vanished into the surrounding forest. Their plan was to get away as fast as possible.
The circling winners each touched down in order of their finish. Ilsa and Sennah, Dredd and Payne, Zach and Xandar-Sym. The fans cheered and threw flowers at their favorites and even though he didn’t win, giggling girls were on hand to welcome back their hero Dredd. They covered him with their scarves in every color of the rainbow. This time Dredd flashed a winning smile and made their hearts flutter. A few girls ran over to Zach, tied scarves on his neck and arms and blew him kisses as they ran back into the stands.
Ilsa was proud and strong as she dismounted from Sennah. She winked at Dredd and let out a low throaty growl. “What do you think now Mr. Domino? Who is the best now?”
Dredd smiled in an offhand way. “Luck is all Ilsa, we’re all winners and losers in a way. Don’t get so full of yourself, you did well. Now just take the compliment and leave it at that.”
“I will take it as a compliment Dredd, thanks.” Ilsa was grateful for his attention any way she could get it. She wanted to beat him so that he would think her a worthy opponent. Now that she was the winner of Dragon Masters, she felt happy and proud. Suddenly a lone fan ran up to Ilsa and shyly handed her a bouquet of flowers. She almost smiled at the surprised young man, “thanks” Ilsa said blushing.
Zach smiled and waved at Faazen and his granddad. They were in the stands clapping heartily and thumping one another on the back. Zach wished Mella could see this. He would remember it all and tell her about it later in detail. Zach was scanning the area looking for J fire, and there he was lying next to Faazen and actually behaving himself for a change. Faazen turned and patted the little dragon’s head.
Algor Palgon walked to the podium and cleared his throat. “Good ladies and gentlemen. We have a first here at Dragon Masters Championship; Ilsa Ivey is our grand champion!” He walked over to where she stood and proudly presented her with the trophy. Now the trophy was a thing of beauty and an honor to receive. It stood all of two feet, was eighteen karat gold, and finished in pearl mosaic. The winner’s name would be engraved across the bottom after the race. After that, Jessa Palgon came over to the still surprised Ilsa and gave her a long envelope then kissed her on the cheek. “Congratulations Miss Ivey on being the first woman to finish as the grand champion.” Ilsa’s fingers trembled as she carefully opened the envelope. Her eyes scanned the document detailing the fine parcel of land and purse of silver. She smiled and waved to the crowds with an air of confidence.
The gnomlie wizard spoke again. “Next, our past champion needs no introduction but we’ll introduce him just the same.” Girls were screaming wildly, “ladies please let me speak. Dredd Domino!” The wizard gave him his trophy and Dredd was pleased to receive an envelope from Jessa Palgon. When he read it, he found a parcel of land given to him as well as a purse of silver too.
Algor continued. “The other riders that finished third and fourth are Zachary Wellington and Lash Beckett, thank you gentlemen and thank you to all the dragons for bringing their riders back safely, especially Azzreen. Although injured badly, he finished the race with great courage. One other thing ladies and gentlemen, it seems we are missing a dragon and his rider.” Algor looked puzzled for a moment.
Dredd looked at Zach and shrugged his shoulders. Zach knew exactly what his friend was thinking.
“Now ladies and gentlemen, I know our younger folks must be looking forward to the annual dance. The older folks such as myself and Mrs. Palgon will gather at the ale gardens and everyone can sample the many wonderful foods and drink from throughout the land.” There was hearty applause as the people started filtering out from the stands making their way through the village to enjoy the remainder of the day.
Twenty - Onto the Evening Festivities
The Race Riders went to their rooms at the inn to prepare for the evening. Zach would be glad to change around and put on comfortable clothes but he knew that Daisy had made outfits for him and Dredd to wear for the dance. Dredd put his arm around his friend, and threw his head back. “Well how was your first race? I think you did well.”
“I’m happy to be alive, you should be too.”
“Yeah I know Zach, pretty scary stuff. Thanks for having my back.” Dredd put out his hand; “you have proved yourself in many ways.”
Zach clasped his hand and smiled. “Really Dredd, there is someone else you should thank.”
Dredd had a puzzled look on his face “Faazen?”
“No, your sister Andi, she was amazing. She shot the orc down over the Everdark Forest and saved your life.”
“Andi?” Dredd half smiled, “she doesn’t know how to climb a tree or shoot a bow and arrow.”
“She sure does now,” Zach said nodding.
“How did she find out about the orc’s plan Zach?”
“Andi overheard the orcs before the start of the race. She told me something
was going to happen and to keep an eye out.”
He ran his fingers through his hair and sheepishly grinned. “You’re watching out for me, now that’s something. Being saved by my prissy sister and a green rookie. All right I guess I’ll take it.”
Zach puffed his chest and adjusted his tunic with a comical but intended bravado. “Look at it this way, you’re alive and that’s a good thing. What would those young girls ever do without their handsome hero?”
Dredd punched Zach’s shoulder. “You’re a very funny guy!” They both laughed as they made their way out. Dredd opened the Inn’s heavy door to a throng of partygoers. The first obstacle to wade through was the adoring girls waiting for them. “So this is what it feels like to be a rock- star,” said Zach blushing.
“Yeah, right” mumbled Dredd,
The giggling young women were trying to catch the eye of the rakish Race Riders. “Don’t stop Zach, we’ll never get away.”
“Well Dredd, to me its pretty cool. They think we’re heroes or something.”
“Yeah Zach, or something.” Dredd laughed at his own humor. “Onward, follow me!”
Excitement was everywhere and the place hummed with the charge of it. Hearty thumps on the back and appreciative clapping greeted them every way they turned. Dredd smiled and politely nodded to his fans. Zach was clearly taken by the adoration given him, and was drinking it all in.
“The way you’re slowing us down we’ll never get a drink. Let’s go Zach.” Dredd put his hands on Zach’s shoulders and directed him through the mass of people. The festival was wonderful, all around them were sights and sounds and the aromas were tantalizing. They were hungry, thirsty, and tired but the buzz of the crowd energized them. A large group of musicians on a circular elevated stage played fast tunes. The music had a contemporary sound; it reminded Zach of his favorite music back home. The stage lit with large torches was hypnotic as flames danced in the breeze in muted colors. The effect was dazzling to the eye.