So, how do we go about finding new Keepers? Khollo finally asked, leaning forward against Kanin’s neck.
The dragon snorted. You read the records, he pointed out. You should know.
Khollo frowned. They mentioned something about a search . . . once a year, I think. Only a few new members were taken each time.
And how did these searches work? Kanin asked.
The young Keeper struggled to remember. The records didn’t mention how to search, although they implied the dragons and humans worked together to identify candidates.
Perhaps we will have a sense for worthy prospects? Kanin suggested hopefully. Maybe I will be able to touch the minds of likely candidates, as I could touch yours?
Maybe, Khollo allowed. I suppose we’ll find out.
Good, the dragon said confidently. Now, where do we start? We can go anywhere, you know.
How strange, Khollo replied thoughtfully. This freedom is new to me. It used to be I was stuck someplace and if I wanted to go anywhere else I had to spend days or weeks riding or walking. Now . . . now your wings will take us anywhere, even to the northernmost reaches.
Is the north where you wish to go?
Not yet, Khollo said quickly. It’s already winter there, and I’ve no desire to be frozen solid. Although, he added, it is the ancestral home of the dragons, and so we might find candidates there.
We might find candidates anywhere, Kanin countered. We know very little at this point.
Does it concern you? Khollo asked the dragon. The fact we know very little?
The emerald dragon was silent for several seconds, then finally replied. It is not cause for worry. We will learn, as we have been learning.
But what if we make a mistake?
Then we learn from it and do not make it again, Kanin replied, unfazed. That is the fun part of trying new things. But, he said suddenly, before we worry about training Keepers, we need to find them. And to find them, we need to decide where to look. Where do you wish to go?
Khollo sighed heavily, looking around. Where to search? Not the north, not yet. The plains? The fens? The cities along the Sthan Kingdom’s rivers and seas?
I don’t know, Khollo growled finally, frustrated.
Somewhere familiar? Kanin suggested.
Not the West Bank, Khollo said reluctantly. We’d get stuck there and never want to leave.
Then where else? Kanin asked. Where will we find people with the qualities Keepers need?
Young people, Khollo interjected quickly. I don’t want to try training someone older than me. Or too much younger, for that matter.
This may significantly reduce the number of potential candidates, Kanin warned.
If it becomes an issue, we’ll reconsider, Khollo promised. But let’s try and make this easy on ourselves. Now, where could we find a large number of steady, capable young people who are used to the idea of danger and might be eager for some adventure?
The north, Kanin said immediately. It is a hard place to live, yes? Such adversity would breed the qualities we seek.
Perhaps, Khollo agreed. But I was hoping for something closer . . . the Academy!
What?
The Academy, where Janis took me originally. It’s in Ardia, and is probably the largest collection of adventurous young people in the kingdom.
It is a place of soldiers, Kanin mused. Are soldiers the type of people we seek?
Khollo chewed on his lower lip thoughtfully. Not exactly, he admitted. We are peacekeepers, first and foremost. But if the hatchlings are restless, might it be good to have some fighters?
This is complicated, Kanin complained. But we have to start somewhere. Which way to this Academy?
It’s in Ardia.
Which way to Ardia, then?
Khollo chuckled and patted the scaly neck affectionately. Southwest, he told Kanin. It’s by the southern end of the Furnier Sea. I’ll keep us on course as best I can.
Kanin adjusted his course to the southwest then went back to gliding, flapping his wings slowly and evenly, conserving his strength for the journey ahead. Khollo sat back and watched the land slide by below, occasionally checking for landmarks and correcting their flight path.
Day turned to night, night to day again. Kanin kept flying throughout, though Khollo suggested they rest. The dragon assured Khollo he was not tired, that flying was no strain, but the young Keeper still worried about his friend overexerting himself.
They were rewarded for Kanin’s efforts when Ardia came into view late in the afternoon, a glittering city by the sea. The outer walls were high but narrow, built of reddish stone with only two squat towers anchoring them on either side of the main gate. Opposite the gate was the harbor, a veritable forest of masts and sails. The city in between was a chaotic jumble of roofs, all different colors, heights, and shapes. The streets were just as crowded, the markets full and bountiful, the roads clogged with wagons and people on foot.
It’s not how I remember it, Khollo remarked quietly, looking down. So much food and happiness.
Times were darker when last you lived here, Kanin replied. These people have known peace for a long time. And the refugees from the war will have returned south by now.
Yes, Khollo agreed, nodding. He scanned the city skyline quickly, searching for the Academy’s red dome and massive training ground. He found them easily enough, not far from the graceful, curving structure of Ardia’s central keep.
Land at the gates, Khollo instructed Kanin. We don’t want to cause a panic swooping into the city unannounced.
Why panic? Kanin demanded. We are Keepers!
These people don’t understand that, Khollo reminded him sadly. Someday, that will change. But not yet.
Kanin growled deep in his chest, but did as Khollo asked. The great dragon circled lazily down to the main gate, flaring his wings and flapping furiously to check his momentum. His wings created a great wind that sent the guards stumbling, clutching at their weapons.
Oops, Kanin said apologetically. I sometimes forget how frail your kind are.
Khollo laughed to himself and slid down from Kanin’s back, wobbling slightly as his legs hit the ground. It was difficult to stand after so long in the saddle. He waved to the guards as he staggered towards them awkwardly.
“Greetings,” he called to the nearest guard. “I am Khollo, High Keeper, and this is Kanin.”
The guards exchanged uncertain looks, shying away from the dragon. For a moment, it seemed none would respond to Khollo. Then, one finally stepped forward tentatively.
“Welcome, Keeper,” he said. “We have heard much about you. What brings you to Ardia?”
Khollo smiled, trying to put the man at ease. “We ride in search of additional Keepers, and would like to speak with some of the young people at the Academy and others within the city.”
The guard’s eyes widened. “Does this mean there are more dragons?” he asked shrewdly.
Khollo inclined his head slightly. “There may soon be,” he said, confirming nothing.
“The world is changing,” the guard muttered. Then, he shook his head. “I’ll send a messenger to the Academy, let them know to expect you. It will save some panic and might make this search of yours easier.”
“Thank you,” Khollo replied. “We will wait here for now, and give your man a head start.”
One of the guards turned and marched into the city, making for the Academy. Khollo turned and went back to Kanin’s side, scratching the dragon’s snout and jaw idly.
What are you thinking? Kanin asked lazily, eyes half-closed.
Khollo shrugged. This is our first test. Our first opportunity to prove we have what it takes to refound the Order . . . or not.
We can do this, Kanin said confidently.
Why do you believe that?
Because we must.
Khollo had no answer for Kanin’s assertion, so he sighed and turned back towards the gate, waiting. When he judged enough time had passed for the guard to reach the Academy,
he climbed onto Kanin’s back and tightened the flying straps slightly.
We go now? Kanin asked, flaring his wings to either side and preparing to take off.
Yes, Khollo said, squaring his shoulders.
Kanin leapt skyward, wings pumping strongly, buffeting those on the ground below. There were many cries of surprise as Kanin swooped over the walls, but no alarms were sounded and no arrows flew towards the Keepers, for which Khollo was exceptionally grateful. He checked his weapons and armor surreptitiously, making sure he could defend himself if he needed to.
Relax, Kanin told him as the dragon swooped low over the courtyard that fronted the Academy. We are here to search, not to fight.
Khollo nodded, leaning forward slightly as Kanin backwinged and then landed with a thud. The young Keeper slid down from Kanin’s back and landed on the ground, looking around curiously.
The Academy had not changed much. The main building with its impressive dome was as strong and proud as ever, the low barracks branching off of it still squat and utilitarian. The courtyard was mostly empty, but if Khollo remembered correctly it was about the time of day when lessons should be ending and everyone would be making their way to the main hall for the evening meal. They had timed their arrival almost perfectly.
Even as Khollo had the thought, a bell sounded from somewhere in the Academy complex, its brazen tones echoing off the walls. Immediately, the courtyard was flooded with young cadets, laughing and shoving at each other. They balked at the sight of Kanin and Khollo, waiting there expectantly. Then, they edged past nervously, keeping their distance.
What do we do? Khollo asked Kanin sharply, looking around. Can you sense any?
No, Kanin said. But you could try to look a little friendlier. That scowl of yours is making them close up.
I’m not scowling, Khollo protested.
Yes, you are. Relax. Look around with curiosity instead of uncertainty. With confidence instead of fear.
I’m not afraid!
Khollo, Kanin said patiently, our minds are bonded. You cannot tell me you are not afraid when your fear vibrates across our link as clearly as the Academy’s bell rings in my ears.
The young Keeper turned away from Kanin, ignoring the dragon and searching the faces of the cadets passing by. They did not seem particularly interested in their unexpected guest, but nor did they seem as frightened as they had been initially. Khollo began to search them for candidates from a distance, though there was little he could tell in a few seconds of observation.
They all had a strength and discipline to them, both the boys and the few girls who passed. Some were serious and thoughtful, their expressions set and grim. Others were joking with their friends, carefree and easygoing. Some had harsh laughs and rough voices, reminding Khollo of bullies like Genal. He frowned slightly at the memory, remembering that a great many soldiers were like his former nemesis. Why had he thought the Academy would be any different? Out of his class of twenty cadets at the West Bank, only Hern and Sermas had had the courage and character he sought in his new Keepers. And now they were personal guards of the Sthan King.
Still nothing? He asked Kanin worriedly.
No.
Khollo sighed. Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea.
I meant, no, there is something, Kanin clarified. You humans have a strange way of communicating.
You sense someone? Khollo asked eagerly.
Maybe. A mind approaches which is not so closed off as others . . . but it’s outside the Academy.
Khollo frowned. Outside? What do you mean –
He broke off as a laden wagon turned the corner, led by an aging horse. An older man sat on the bench above, lazily flicking the reins every now and again. Beside the wagon walked a slightly rotund girl, maybe a year younger than Khollo.
The horse whinnied and shied away from Kanin, the wagon driver cursing. The girl looked around, confused, then saw the dragon and gasped, her hand flying to her mouth.
“It’s all right!” Khollo called to them, stepping out of Kanin’s shadow. “He won’t hurt you.”
The wagon driver tugged at the ragged brim of his hat, nodding politely to Khollo. “I ‘ppreciate that, young man, but Clod here certainly don’t. Still, you silly creature!”
The wagon driver continued wrestling with his charge, gradually subduing the frightened beast. The girl meanwhile, slowly lowered her hand from her mouth, eyes wide and staring.
Kanin, is one of them –
The girl.
Khollo looked back at her, frowning slightly. She was no warrior, a little overweight, and below average height. Could she really deal with the rigors of being a Keeper?
Khollo took another step forward and the girl noticed him finally, turning to face him. As she did, a warm, friendly smile lit up her face.
She has the heart of a Keeper, Kanin said quietly.
“Is that . . . your dragon?” the girl managed to ask, nearly breathless.
Khollo shrugged, smiling slightly. “He is my friend, yes. His name is Kanin.” The emerald dragon lowered his head to the ground, studying the girl with one opalescent eye. She did not flinch from his gaze, but stood firm. Behind her, the old man had finally gotten his horse under control, but she seemed to have forgotten him.
“Kanin,” the girl breathed, taking a tentative step forward. She reached out a hand as though to touch the emerald dragon, then pulled it back quickly.
“It’s all right,” Khollo assured her. “He won’t harm you.”
The girl glanced at him. “Really?”
The young Keeper forced a reassuring smile onto his face, hoping the expression didn’t look too strained. “Really.”
The girl hesitated, then curtsied to the dragon formally. Kanin tilted his head curiously, then dipped his head in a dragon approximation of a bow. The girl, encouraged, took a few more steps forward, then gently laid a hand on Kanin’s snout, breathing in sharply as she did.
“Halena!” the wagon driver called from behind Khollo. “Come an’ help me with Clod. I finally get him to stand still and now he won’t move, blast him!”
The girl turned quickly, remembering her charges. “I have to go,” she said quickly to Khollo. “The kitchen master will be looking for me and these supplies need to be delivered from the market – ”
“Where do the supplies need to be sent?” Khollo asked, addressing the older man.
“To the kitchens, obviously,” he replied.
“You know the way?”
“O’ course!”
“And you know the kitchen master?”
“Have for twenty years.”
Khollo glanced at Halena. “Can you tell the kitchen master something has come up and Halena is meeting with a Keeper at the moment?” he asked the wagon driver.
“Oh, no, I shouldn’t,” Halena said quickly, starting towards the wagon. “I have work to do.”
“Please, stay,” Khollo said. “Kanin and I need to talk to you.”
“I haven’t done anythin’ wrong!”
“No, of course not,” Khollo said quickly. “There’s no trouble. Just an opportunity we think you might want to hear.”
“Miss?” the wagoner called uncertainly.
“Trust me, Halena,” Khollo urged. “This is important.”
The girl sighed and turned back to the wagon. “Go along, Harrell, I’ll be along later.”
“As you wish, miss,” Harrell replied, tipping his hat. “A good day to you, young man,” he added to Khollo. Then, he flicked the reins a few times and Clod started towards the main building, straining against the weight of the laden cart.
Halena turned back to face Khollo, frowning slightly. “So what is this all about?”
Khollo moved back to Kanin’s side, gathering his thoughts. “An opportunity, Halena. Kanin and I are the only Keepers in the world, the first in a new order of dragons and riders. We are looking for people to join us.”
Halena smiled sadly. “Sorry, but I’m not a fighter.”
“The Keepers aren’t about fighting,” Khollo replied. “We are peacekeepers, first and foremost. But if the need arises, we will fight to defend and protect.”
The girl shook her head, clearly confused. “Why single me out? You obviously came to the city looking for soldiers.”
“Oh?”
“I’m not stupid! You came straight to the Academy, where the best young warriors in the world are being trained.”
“We came here seeking those with the heart and courage to raise, ride, and fight with dragons,” Khollo said, shrugging. “We thought it would be a good place to start.”
And yet, none of these warriors were promising, Kanin mused. Perhaps we do not understand this search as much as we thought.
“Again,” Halena asked, pushing back her pale-blonde hair. “Why me, out of all the others?”
“Because,” Khollo said, glancing at Kanin, “You are the only one out of all the people who passed us today who Kanin could reach out to.”
“I’ve never heard him.”
You have to listen closely, Kanin explained. It was difficult to make Khollo hear me at first as well.
Halena’s eyes widened and she gasped quietly, blue eyes lighting up with unbridled joy. “I heard something,” she whispered. “Like an echo from across the sea.”
With practice, you will be able to hear me as well as humans, Kanin said, curling up on the ground. Tell her more about the order, what we are attempting, he added to Khollo.
So Khollo quickly outlined the events of the past few months, how he had found Kanin in the South, rescued him, and flown to Ethgalin. He left out the island’s precise location, but told Halena all he knew of the Keeper stronghold, save the matter of the hatchery. That was a secret he would guard jealously for the time being, lest it reach the wrong ears. Throughout his explanation, Halena looked between Kanin and Khollo, her expression altering between excitement, longing, and nervous anticipation.
Yet, when Khollo finished speaking, she bit her lip and looked away. “This . . . Ethgalin,” she said. “It is far away?”
“Very.”
“And as a Keeper, I would have to stay there?”
“At least until your dragon is old enough to fly,” Khollo said, somewhat apologetically. “But then you could travel anywhere in the world in a matter of days.”
The Captive Page 4