Dragonhunters

by Sabrina Chase

  It would be more comfortable to travel simply as unconnected passengers. The only difficulty was other unconnected passengers. There had been no sign of pursuit lately, but she could not be easy.

  Gutrune also wanted an opportunity to talk privately with Ardhuin, which had not been possible during the caravan. She still had the occasional nightmare in which her hands blazed with magefire as she tried to escape nameless enemies in the dark. They would disappear entirely, she was sure, if Ardhuin could tell her how to counteract it.

  Their ship was the Amabel, one of the Bosta sailing ships designed for speed. It was tall with sleek and narrow lines, and it had an unusually large number of masts to carry all the sails it required. It stood out in the dusty harbor like a society lady dressed for a ball. Most of their fellow passengers were Alban or Aeropan, dealing with imports or business in the Trade Cities, but enough Geaptans and Beduns were present her current disguise was unremarkable.

  She and Stoller boarded in the evening, close to sailing time. She wanted to make sure she was not being followed. The expedition members were already embarked, and once she felt the ship shift and roll as it left the harbor, she went in search of them.

  It was habit now to stay in the shadows, to watch a place carefully before she proceeded. Thus when she saw Dominic Kermarec standing at the rail, she did not immediately join him. He was speaking in a low voice with some agitation, and when she moved closer she saw Markus Asgaya partly concealed by an open hatch cover—‌and she wondered if he also was hiding in shadows now.

  She heard his voice but could not distinguish the words. Dominic made an exasperated sound and darted a glance over his shoulder. “How would I know?” he snapped. “There really is something pathetic in your coming to me for guidance. My experience is singular and highly unique, and you cannot expect me to help you succeed as I did.”

  Markus chuckled, and he also glanced about before leaning forward to speak even more quietly to Dominic. Gutrune faded back, her curiosity piqued. What secret could Markus and Dominic have in common that they would want to conceal from the others?

  Gutrune made her way through the narrow corridors, edging to the wall to avoid a group of Cathans hunkered down. She did not know where the expedition’s cabins were, but if she found some of the members nearby, she could follow them. Only the group involved in the Mage Guardian project knew who she was, so she would still have to keep her distance and not ask them questions.

  Eventually, after much wandering and pretending to be in search of the steward, she found Ardhuin. Even though she knew Ardhuin was wearing an illusion, she had to keep reminding herself to look for “Mr. Talbot,” a raw–‌boned Atlantean man, rather than the shy woman with blazing red hair. It was still uncanny how a trace of Ardhuin was still visible in the illusion if you knew where to look.

  Ardhuin glanced at her and kept walking past, but Gutrune saw the shimmering fog that sprang up around them and knew it was more concealing magic, making it safe to follow her to her cabin. Once inside, Ardhuin gestured with graceful command—‌more magic—‌and her shoulders slumped with relief.

  “Oof. I hope I never see another camel again.” The illusioned face showed chagrin. “But you had it much worse, leading one. However did you manage?”

  “Extract of bitumen, on a rag concealed in my turban veil. It deadens the sense of smell.” Gutrune hesitated, embarrassed by her discomfort. “If it is not too much trouble, would you…‌” she gestured at Ardhuin’s face.

  Mr. Talbot gave his engaging grin, and then Ardhuin’s familiar features replaced them. “Of course. I forget myself, since I don’t often see my reflection. And Dominic can see through it anyway, but he still dislikes it.”

  “Understandable,” Gutrune murmured. “It would explain the occasional lapse in his usual cheerful nature. We have not had much opportunity to speak since I joined you, and I hope you will permit me to ask some questions of a more personal interest.” Ardhuin nodded, looking concerned. “It is…‌the mineral salts. I am sure the effects of my accidental exposure have faded, however…‌can you think of any way to…‌prevent it from happening again?”

  “I have not had an opportunity to study it, beyond the first time you showed it to us,” Ardhuin said apologetically. “And given its power, I would want strong wards and no distractions. It is very dangerous, as you know. It appears to me, though, that mere proximity is not a problem. You were able to carry it without ill effect?” Gutrune nodded. “Well then. My first guess is the mineral salt must be ingested somehow—‌either swallowing or breathing it in. If you were to cover your nose and mouth, that would give you a measure of protection.”

  “When it hit me, it felt…‌as if I were about to explode,” Gutrune whispered. “Is that…‌is that how you feel? With your magic?”

  Ardhuin sat down on the bunk beside her and clasped Gutrune’s tightly gripped hands with her own.

  “No. Not at all. What happened to you was a different matter entirely—‌abnormal and extreme. Tell me—‌when I cast illusion on you earlier, did it feel at all uncomfortable?”

  Gutrune, puzzled, thought back and eventually shook her head.

  “Good. That means you have not been sensitized. Please do not worry. You don’t have to handle everything on your own now. You have three magicians and a scryer to help you.” Ardhuin’s hand tightened, then relaxed. “Now, I must speak on another delicate point. How much of what happened to you have you reported to Preusa?”

  “Very little. It seemed dangerous to mention even in coded telegrams. I changed the shipping address on the crate for my brother to intercept it, but I warned him not to open it.”

  “Good.” Ardhuin hesitated a moment, a faint flush growing on her face. “I must ask you not to reveal anything more. To anyone—‌and impress upon Stoller and Herr Asgaya that any information about the mineral salts must be kept secret. This is a dangerous development, and the more I think about it, it must be the danger that MacCrimmon feared so greatly. I hope you do not feel that I am asking you to compromise your loyalty to the King.” Now her face was quite red, and her eyes were lowered. “I know you do not take your service lightly. But I also have a duty, and in this case, I believe I must conceal the nature of the mineral salts completely. For the safety of Aerope.”

  Gutrune smiled. “The king gives me great latitude for the performance of my duties. If it is for the safety of Aerope, there is no conflict in what you ask.”

  “Well, if a conflict should develop, can I count on you to warn me first?” Gutrune nodded, and Ardhuin gave a hesitant smile. “Now, what exactly happened to you? You only gave a brief description, but I would like to know more. If you don’t mind.”

  “As long as there is no repetition, I can—”

  The door to the cabin opened, and Dominic came in. “Why is there…‌” he gestured vaguely, then caught sight of Gutrune. “Oh, there you are! We were wondering…‌that is, I believe Herr Asgaya wanted to speak with you.” He smiled at Ardhuin. “Ah, that’s better.”

  Seeing Ardhuin’s answering smile, Gutrune rose. “I should see what he has to say, then. We will speak later of my experiences.”

  Ardhuin nodded without removing her gaze from Dominic, and Gutrune left the cabin after first making sure the corridor was clear. She had not spent much time with her friend after her marriage—‌just letters—‌so she had not realized how Ardhuin lost focus when Dominic was present. And he did as well, she mused. It would be better to return when Ardhuin could give her full attention, and, she admitted, she wanted her friend to have a few moments of privacy. It could not be easy for her being in disguise for so long.

  She found Markus on the side deck with Sonam, having a somewhat abbreviated conversation with their limited common vocabulary. While Markus had a crease of worry between his brows, the closer they got to Bhuta, the more animated and cheerful Sonam became.

  “No, not like bird. No wings! But yes, go in sky.” Sonam moved his hand in a sinuous fashio
n. “Kai–‌ling, like this.”

  Markus gave him a skeptical look. “That doesn’t sound like any dragon I’ve ever heard of.” He saw Gutrune and his head snapped around.

  “Some shadow, if you would be so kind.” Gutrune wished she could avoid magic entirely right now, but they needed concealment.

  “At once.” Markus gestured, and the blurry fog sprang up around them. “I don’t like this separate boarding plan; I’m always afraid we’ll miss you.”

  “It’s better that we avoid connecting myself with your group as long as possible. I will have to travel with you once we reach Cathai. Is that what you wished to speak to me about?” Seeing his blank look, she added, “Herr Kermarec mentioned it when I saw him just now.”

  “Oh. Yes. Yes, indeed. Er, what was the latest information you received from Baerlen?”

  Gutrune raised an eyebrow. “Other than extremely brief telegrams, the most recent intelligence reached me in Anatoli, at Denais’s hideout.”

  They were speaking Preusan, and after a few minutes Sonam gave a quick nod of his head and wandered off.

  “Right. Your brother was quite worried about you not getting the information you needed. He insisted I get you caught up. Firstly, the military detachment was delayed in their departure. They are now two weeks behind us, and that’s if there are no further difficulties.”

  “What delayed them this time?”

  He shrugged. “Apparently it was decided to take some experimental apparatus—‌the details were not available. Or they were too sensitive to divulge to me,” he added, grinning.

  Gutrune frowned. “You make light of a serious matter. The timing of their arrival could be crucial to our success.”

  “True—‌but there are always ways around obstacles. I imagine they will be more forthcoming if you make the request, or your brother does, and he will find a way to tell you.”

  “It should not be necessary to play such games,” Gutrune muttered, frustrated. Markus showed no sign of diminished calm, and she wondered at it. Was he so inured to the vagaries of the court?

  He gave her a sidelong glance. “If we had not played games, as you phrase it, we would have nothing. It’s a bloody miracle they decided to send as many as they did, but your brother knew exactly which officers to ask. It was impressive to watch.” He looked out over the water for a moment. “Does it bother you? All the intrigue,” he clarified at her questioning glance.

  “There was a time I would thrive on intrigue, but I find I have less patience for it on the receiving end,” she said dryly.

  “Why did you leave the court, then? Did you step aside for your brother’s sake?”

  She shook her head. “This career has its own rewards, despite the difficulties and discomforts. I am glad Heinrich is doing so well, but he is not…‌it was merely an opportunity to serve us both.”

  “And do you ever think that you will tire of this, as well? Would you ever consider giving it up for something else?”

  Gutrune folded her arms. “No. Why would I, when this is what I always wanted? The freedom…‌” she caught herself. “The King’s service is always paramount. But I can do so much more here.”

  “Of course, and you do it well. You have quite a talent for disguise, matched only by your skill in tracking information.” It seemed to Gutrune that his expression, which had been mobile and animated, changed and became less open. Less reflective of his emotions. Guarded. She wondered why. Perhaps Heinrich had asked him to persuade her to come back to Preusa and the court.

  “I have always enjoyed the hunt.” She turned to leave.

  Markus cleared his throat, and she looked back. “I saw this in the market before we boarded.” He reached into an inner pocket of his jacket. “I know you prefer your pistols, but in this part of the world they can draw too much unwanted attention—‌and we are trying to avoid notice.”

  He held out a knife in a plain leather sheath. Gutrune took it, suddenly uncertain. Perhaps she had misjudged him. The blade was narrow and covered by the dull watermark of damascene. It felt light and balanced in her hand. “Excellent craftsmanship. I can indeed make use of this. Thank you.”

  “I live to serve,” Markus said softly as she walked away.

  Ardhuin frowned, focusing intently on keeping everyone slightly levitated while simultaneously casting the wards. It was fortunate, in that respect, that the cabin was not large, but that made it awkward for everyone that needed to be inside while it was cast. Dominic, Sonam, Gutrune, and Markus formed a tight knot in the small clear area between the bunks, while Ardhuin stood against the door.

  “There. That should do the trick. I feel much better about keeping the mineral essence in here—‌but I am still not sure it is a good idea.”

  “I can still see it quite clearly,” Dominic said. “I suppose the iron we packed around it is not enough.”

  “It definitely made it easier to cast the wards. I doubt we could do anything to shield it completely. You have not noticed any…‌other effects?” Dominic shook his head. She knew it was dangerous to leave the salts in the hold, where anyone might access them, but it was also dangerous to expose Dominic to their effects. She would simply have to keep a watchful eye on him and make sure he was not concealing anything from her.

  “I hear that we have caught an early trade wind, so we may even make up some time.” Markus folded his height with some difficulty to fit in the lower bunk. “Now, there is something that doesn’t quite fit. If everyone in Sonam’s valley can use magic, why can’t they defend themselves against Denais?”

  “We do not know magic for fighting,” Sonam explained after a few unfamiliar words were translated. “For us, magic is…‌an extra hand. To help with work. Children use it for games, and for festival dances.”

  Ardhuin thought a moment. “But you use powerful magic—‌are there no others like yourself there?”

  Sonam gave a quick, unhappy smile, his eyes downcast. “I have learned your way of making spells. Many say it is not…‌that the spirits prefer the old ways. Also, the custom is the warriors fight, and they have iron—‌they call it star–‌metal. They do not like even our magics around their weapons.”

  Ah. This could be difficult.

  “You told us MacCrimmon had protected the valley with magic,” Dominic said, brows knitted. “They did not object to this?”

  “The people were fearful.” Sonam spoke in a soft voice, his gaze averted. “They wanted a shield to protect them—‌but it was not an easy thing to agree to.”

  “Understandable.” Ardhuin sensed he did not want to discuss the matter any further. “So, let us see if we can help Gutrune with her disguise. I thought if you had a piece of that metal you use, Dominic, we could try that.”

  “You mean like your pendant? Wouldn’t she need magical ability to use it, though?” He lifted a skeptical eyebrow.

  Ardhuin shook her head. “I think if I use enough power, I can infuse the entire spell. I was wondering if we used a bit of the mineral salt, it would act like magical power.” She saw Gutrune’s face go a shade paler and hastened to reassure her. “It would all be bound together with the spell. It would not, er, contaminate you. Would you be willing to make a trial?”

  Gutrune nodded, but slowly. Ardhuin looked at her, not sure if she should say anything. Gutrune’s jaw was set, her eyes narrowed. It would seem she was reluctant but determined.

  “I believe I still have a few bits of the alloy left, stored with the imager in the event a repair was needed. In the left compartment, under the bunk.” Dominic pointed, and Markus swung his long legs up to the bed. “Aaah—‌that’s also where the salts jar is. Would you mind holding it for a moment? I just need this box…‌”

  Markus contorted himself again to move various pieces of scrap iron away and reach for the clay jar, and Dominic rooted in the compartment.

  “It looks so innocuous, for so much trouble.” Markus hefted the jar to get a better view, just as the ship rocked sharply. The jar slipp
ed from his hands and fell with a hard thump into the box Dominic was lifting up. Gutrune stepped back sharply, her face white, and she instantly pulled a fold of her jacket over her face.

  “Is it broken?” Ardhuin leaned over, ready to shield Dominic if it proved necessary.

  “No, but almost as bad—‌the lid came loose. The twine was frayed.” He squinted. “I think a little spilled out, but not much. It’s hard to tell.”

  “Here, let me.” Ardhuin reached in and carefully lifted the imager out. The risk of exposure was less for her than Dominic. “Oh, one of the levers is bent.”

  “The alloy works well for magical infusion, but it is softer than I like.” Dominic grimaced. “I can’t tell if the salts damaged the spells. It’s all mixed together, and so bright.” He reached into the box again. “But this looks unharmed. We can make your illusion charm, and maybe use up any of the spilled salts.”

  A few grains were still in the bottom of the box. They resisted levitation, sliding free when she tried. In the end, she used the end of an ivory toothbrush to gather them together, then laid the small piece of metal on top.

  When she invoked the spell, the surge of power was a jolt. Ardhuin caught and held it, clenching her teeth with the effort to keep it in place. It almost felt as if it were trying to escape, like a landed fish.

  “What…‌illusion do you…‌want?” she managed to gasp.

  “The one you cast most recently,” Gutrune said instantly. Ardhuin focused the image in her mind, shaped the structures and the illusion that covered them, and slammed the magic into the metal.

  “Well. That was…‌instructive.” She wiped her forehead. She held up the piece of metal, and Dominic studied it for a moment.

  “Very strange. The spell is there, and so is a web of…‌I suppose that is the power. But why does it not give you the illusion?”

  “I made it only for Gutrune. The base structure will only fit her, so it would be useless for anyone else.”