The Andy Smithson Series: Books 1, 2, and 3 (Young Adult Epic Fantasy Bundle) (Andy Smithson Series Boxset): Dragons, Serpents, Unicorns, Pegasus, Pixies, Trolls, Dwarfs, Knights and More!

by L. EE

  “What do you think you were doing?” accused the self-appointed leader.

  “I’m sorry!” pleaded Andy, afraid he and Alden might not live to see tomorrow.

  “Keep your voice down, boy,” the man scolded in a gruff whisper. “You nearly created a ruckus with all the dragons. Do you have any idea what could have happened?”

  “I’m very sorry, sir. I didn’t mean—” whispered Andy. “Is there anything I can do to make it up to you?”

  “Yeah, you and your green-haired friend can get outta here, and stay out,” the trainer hissed in a stern voice.

  The other trainers remained stone-faced and glaring. One mumbled, “Stupid kids. They have no clue.”

  Before retreating, Andy summoned his courage and asked, “We are looking for Merodach. Would you happen to know where we might find him?”

  “Merodach? What would two servant boys want with him?”

  Without missing a beat, Andy said, “I want to learn how to battle a red dragon, and I was told Merodach could teach me.”

  The trainer stared at Andy in disbelief and then broke out in controlled bursts of laughter that would have been heard for miles were volume not an issue. Several others fell to the ground, holding their stomachs, aching from fits of laughter.

  “That’s…the stupidest…thing…I’ve ever…heard,” the trainer managed to spit out.

  “You two? Battle a red dragon? Are you out of your minds?” interjected another.

  After several minutes, the trainer pulled himself together and said to Andy, “Merodach is over there in his tent, catching up on some sleep.” He motioned to an oversized, tattered gray pup tent pitched beside a large oak tree. “By the time you’ve convinced him to teach you how to battle a red dragon, you’ll have already mastered the art.” He broke off in heaves of laughter once again. The rest of the trainers followed suit.

  The pair headed for the dragon master’s tent. The trainer hissed a warning after them, “He don’t like Cartesians. Might feed your friend to a dragon just for fun.” Muted laughter broke out once more behind them.

  Andy looked back at Alden who followed. “Don’t mind them.”

  “Don’t worry, I don’t.”

  They reached Merodach’s tent and stood outside listening. Heavy breathing mixed with snoring came from within. They sat down in the shade of the oak tree and waited for the man to awaken. They played with the grass under their feet and twigs on the ground nearby, and still the dragon master slept on. They climbed the lower branches of the oak tree and gradually made their way to the topmost where they got a bird’s-eye view of the festival as far as the fog would permit them. The sun started going down and their stomachs began growling, but the man slept on.

  “Do you think we should come back tomorrow?” asked Alden. “No telling how long he’s going to sleep.”

  “I’m not leaving until I’ve spoken to Merodach. What we need from him is too important.” Andy’s stomach dissented, grumbling at the news. And I can’t go home…

  “Well, I’m starving. I’m going to get us something to eat.”

  Alden shinnied down the tree and left to retrieve dinner. He was back in no time, handing Andy some treats that smelled amazing. Andy’s belly intoned a blessing over the Cartesian. The deep-fried turkey drumstick and pork rolls in BBQ sauce tasted even more mouthwatering than they smelled!

  At the scent of the delicious fare, Merodach roused, yawned a yawn that sounded exactly like the beast the trainer had mastered, and stuck his head out of the pup tent. “Who’s there and what’d you bring me to eat?” he bellowed.

  His black curly hair stuck out at odd angles, like a startled cat crowning his head. Clearly he was not friends with a comb, for his bushy beard was full of morsels from past meals. As he crawled out of the tent, his enormous belly brushed the ground, adding yet another layer of dirt to his well-soiled plaid shirt, the buttons of which were stretched to their limits over his generous girth. His left hand was missing two fingers. Merodach liberally scratched his big butt as he stood.

  Even though Andy craved the food, he said, “I’m Andy, and this is Alden. Someone told me you know all about red dragons and how to find them. You can have our food if you tell us where they are at this time of year.”

  Merodach, who towered several feet over them, grinned. “Think you can bargain with me, huh, boy? The last fellow who tried that went missing for quite some time. His body was finally found washed down a river.”

  Alden glanced quickly at Andy, but Andy ignored him.

  “Please, sir, I just need to know where I can find a red dragon.”

  “Well, why don’t you start by minding your manners and giving me that turkey drumstick. That might help my memory.”

  Andy passed his partially consumed dinner to Merodach who had seated himself on the grass next to the tree trunk. Immediately, the man began greedily devouring the turkey leg, dripping grease down his beard. Between voracious bites, Merodach asked, “What would two servant boys from the King’s castle need a red dragon for? Surely the King could get one for you if you asked as nicely as you’re asking me,” he grinned. “Have you asked the King so nicely for a wittle wed dwagon to play with? You can feed your friend to it. Red dragons love folks from Carta,” he chided as he took another oversize bite.

  Merodach devoured the turkey legs, fried mesh marvels, candy apple, three donuts, and taffy, all the while grunting and slobbering. When he had finished, he let out a thunderous belch, lay down on the grass, and closed his eyes, ready to doze off again.

  “So now that you’re full, where are the red dragons?” Andy’s patience wore thin, and while he attempted to hide his annoyance, his tone betrayed him.

  The dragon master ignored the question.

  We’re getting nowhere this way. Inspiration struck when Andy noticed a bright red sash with yellow flames hanging in the opening of the pup tent, and he moved quietly toward it.

  Andy cleared his throat. “Oh Mr. Merodach—”

  The beefy brute opened one eye. Andy picked up the sash and slowly walked toward him. Merodach sat up. The dragon master had brawn, but Andy and Alden both had greater speed and quickness, and the man knew it.

  “All right, boy, hand that to me.”

  “Not until you tell me where I can find a red dragon.”

  “Boy, I said give it here.”

  Andy took a step backward. Alden followed.

  “I’ll give you back your sash when you tell me where I can find a red dragon.”

  Merodach and Andy glared at each other for a full minute before the dragon master relented. “Fine. You can find red dragons in the Dragon’s Lair in Abbadon’s land, Hadession.”

  “Is that where they are right now? Because I know they migrate depending upon the time of year.”

  “Yes, they are there now. I was there not more than a month ago and saw them. Now give me back my sash.”

  “How do I know you’re telling me the truth?”

  “You don’t, but I can call the other trainers over there. They’d be happy to help convince you.”

  Andy caught Alden’s eye then turned back to Merodach. “Here’s your sash, you overgrown baboon.” At this, Andy threw the sash at Merodach and the pair took off running, back toward the main street of the festival.

  Andy glanced over his shoulder. Several of the trainers had started after them. “Faster, Alden!”

  They lost their pursuers before leaving the festival grounds, but with the sun casting long shadows, they headed for home. After crossing the drawbridge, Alden reminded, “We need to tell the King about that vulture-man.”

  “Do you know where King Hercalon is?” Andy questioned the first servant he saw.

  “Up in the laboratory with Mermin,” the little woman replied.

  The pair bolted up the stairs and knocked loudly on the door.

  “Enter,” Mermin invited.

  The King and wizard sat on tall stools at a large table and studied a scroll laid out in fro
nt of them. They looked up in unison.

  “Well, how’d you enjoy the festival today?” A grin spread across the King’s face. Mermin pushed his glasses back up his knotty nose.

  “It was great!” Andy beamed. “There’s so much awesome food!”

  A duet of chuckles acknowledged his outburst.

  “There certainly is,” the sovereign agreed.

  “But we also saw something we think you should know about,” Andy continued. The boys spilled everything they had seen, finishing with, “So, what are you going to do?”

  The King sat quietly rubbing his chin. After a long silence, he finally spoke. “Based upon reports I’m getting from my field troops, I knew King Abaddon was using those birds to spy on us. But I had no idea they could change into men.”

  “How do you know they’re working for Abaddon?” asked Andy.

  “King Abaddon is our only enemy. Seems to me, he’s the only one who would care to spy on us.”

  “Oh. But I’ve seen people who look like that guy here in the castle. Aren’t you afraid they’re informants?”

  “What would you have me do, round them all up because they resemble that man?”

  “I don’t know exactly, sir.” Andy looked to Alden for support, but the Cartesian remained silent.

  “I wouldn’t want spies reporting everything I’m doing.”

  “Well, these people have been under my care for quite some time. If they are indeed spying on us, they certainly wouldn’t have much of importance to report. No, I don’t think we need to do anything just yet, if at all.”

  Andy raised a finger to object but the King continued, “Let’s suppose your theory is correct, that Abaddon is gathering information on us. If we got rid of these servants, our enemy would know immediately that we are on to him. What do you suppose would happen then? Would he just stop spying on us?”

  “Probably not. He’d just figure out a different way.”

  “Exactly. And then we’d need to figure out his new methodology.”

  The boys nodded.

  “By not doing anything, we can control what he learns about us. This is a much stronger position to be in.”

  Mermin smiled. “I have to agwee, Majesty.”

  “What will he do if he knows about me?” Andy bit his lip.

  “No doubt he already does. We need to be careful not to let him know why you’re here, lest he seek to harm you.”

  “Why would he do that?”

  “Andy, do you mind if I tell Alden what you shared with me?”

  Andy met the King’s eyes. He’s asking my permission? That never happens at home. “No, not at all, sir.”

  “Alden, you are sworn to secrecy. You may tell no one.”

  “I understand, Your Majesty.”

  “As I alluded to during Curse Day, Andy has been brought here to break the curse.” The King proceeded to recount what he, Mermin, and Andy had discovered, both about the clue and the message sphere.

  Alden’s gaze bounced from his sovereign to Andy. “Really?”

  “Really,” the King confirmed. “But as I said, you are sworn to secrecy. If you let this slip, you could be putting Andy’s life in danger. You see, the curse gives Abaddon superiority over us in many ways. He would not want us to regain our former advantage over him. I believe he would come after Andy if he ever found out.”

  “I understand, sir. I promise not to say a word.”

  “Not even to your mother.”

  Alden nodded.

  “Thank you. And now, do you have an update on finding the red dragons? Did you find Merodach?”

  Chapter Eight

  Poisoned!

  “So, Merodach said the red dragons are currently in the Dragon’s Lair in the land of Hadession?” the King summarized after the boys had recounted their adventure. “You did well to get this information. While I’m not sure I agree with your tactics in taking Merodach’s sash, that was quick thinking, and you and Alden stayed safe.” He paused and locked eyes with both of them. “I think you will do well on this quest.” He put a hand on their shoulders and gave a gentle squeeze.

  Confidence flowed from the sovereign—Andy’s insides tingled as if a freshly shaken can of soda released its bubbles and filled him up.

  The King stood and shifted to the other table where a map of Oomaldee was spread. He pointed out where the Dragon’s Lair was located to the northeast of the castle in the land of Hadession—where King Abaddon ruled with an iron fist and much cruelty according to most reports.

  “We must plan your trip carefully,” declared the King, studying the map. “There are many obstacles you must overcome to successfully get there and back. One of my biggest concerns is how you’ll get past the great wall that surrounds Oomaldee without being seen, for we must keep this journey secret from all. The last thing I want is for Abaddon to find out we are trespassing into his land.”

  Mermin, Andy, and Alden all bobbed heads.

  “Okay then, Mermin and I will work out the best route while you boys enjoy the festival over these next few days.”

  Alden’s stomach rumbled and he threw a hand over his mouth, eyes wide.

  “Sounds like it’s time for dinner,” Mermin chortled.

  “Oh, and Alden,” the King added, “I wish you much success in the Tower Chase.”

  Alden’s jaw dropped. “You know about that, sir?”

  “Of course,” he chuckled. “And from the sounds of things, you’re very good.”

  Alden blushed. “I’ll do my best, sir.”

  Andy reached the door first and as he turned the knob, he heard footsteps scurrying away. He yanked it open and raced out into the corridor. He scanned both directions but saw no one.

  “What’s wrong?”

  “Sir, I heard someone hurry away.”

  “Was it that confounded boggart?” the King groused.

  “I don’t think so. The boggart usually makes a lot more noise.”

  “Let’s hope no one was eavesdwopping,” Mermin frowned, voicing the concern running through all their minds.

  The day finally arrived for Alden’s Tower Chase event. Andy got up early, rushed through breakfast, and joined Alden at Optimistic’s stall. Alden looked all business in his royal-blue riding coat with the castle crest on his left sleeve. He wore his bright green breeches and had shined his black boots until you could see your reflection in them. His royal-blue helmet lay on top of the hay near the stall door.

  “How you feeling?”

  “A little nervous.”

  “You’ll do great. I’ve seen you practice. You’re ready.”

  “I hope so.”

  Alden saddled Optimistic and led her outside into the bright fog of the stable yard. She could sense Alden’s nervousness and danced in antsy anticipation. He mounted her and looked down at Andy.

  “I’ll do my best. I know it’s all I can ask of myself. I can’t do any better than that.”

  Andy shook his head and laughed. “You’ll do great! And, for the record, I think you’re going to win.”

  Alden smiled back. “Thanks.”

  “I’ll see you over at the arena.”

  “Okay girl, let’s go!” It took no convincing. Optimistic took to a gallop and launched.

  As soon as the fog had hidden the pair, Andy turned and caught sight of a servant with arms that brushed his ankles, standing at a nearby door. Andy had seen the guy once before in the stables, and seeing him again sent a chill down Andy’s spine. The little man frowned and then scurried away, just as he’d done the first time. The hair on the back of Andy’s neck rose to attention.

  Andy walked the now familiar path to the festival by himself, feeling strangely alone despite the crowds surrounding him. Since he had arrived at the castle and met Alden, they had spent a lot of time together. Now, by himself, he missed the familiarity of his friend by his side.

  I’ve never had a friend like Alden. I can be myself and he never laughs at me. And Marta is so different from Mom. Andy ro
used from his thoughts as the throng pushed him under the festival entry banner.

  As he approached the arena, that all-too-familiar stench grew stronger. Andy swatted at the odor, receiving chuckles from spectators behind him. But with nothing else to combat it, Andy smothered his nose in the bend of his elbow. How can they stand it? I’ve got to ask Alden! A uniformed attendant thrust nose plugs into his hand as he mounted the steps leading to the spectator seats. “Thank you!” he intoned in a nasally voice.

  An official was announcing the order of events that were to follow as Andy scanned the sea of people. Finally, he spotted Alden atop his purple pegasus near a gate at the end of the arena. Andy waved. Alden shot back a big smile and a thumbs-up. Andy spotted Marta and Hans cheering in the Friends box, but there were no open seats near them.

  “Excuse me. Excuse me. Pardon me. Oh. Sorry.” Andy crawled over half a row of spectators, avoiding as many toes as possible, and finally nested next to a sandy-haired man whose chants announced his allegiance to one of Alden’s competitors.

  Andy perused his program. Alden was set to ride third. As the announcer introduced each rider, the crowd erupted in a cheer.

  “And now, from His Majesty’s castle, riding Optimistic, please welcome Alden,” crowed the announcer a few minutes later. Alden trotted to the middle of the ring, respectfully removed his helmet, and bowed to the officials. At the sight of Alden’s green hair, silence blanketed the arena. Andy’s neighbor muttered, “What an insult. Why are they even letting that kind compete?” A few jeers of “Go home, Cartesian!” punctuated the scene.

  Alden scanned the crowd and set his jaw.

  For someone who calls himself “just a servant” he sure looks determined to make a name for himself

  A minute later, Alden launched Optimistic up, up, up. Around floating poles and through suspended ovals they flew, just as they had done in practice—they were beautiful together, flying in perfect harmony. Alden’s ride was going flawlessly.