Sands of Time - 17. Chapter 17

Previously:

“By the gods, Garnet!” Xavier replied, as he began casting auto-cleanse spells on everybody. “It is just a story! No need to make a Royal Ass of yourself.”

“Yes, but…”

“Um, Mentor?”

“What, Aegir”

“It is not just a story. It is a true adventure from just at the end of the Dragon Wars.”

“WHAT!!!” yelled both Garnet and Xavier at the same time.

“That’s what I said too…” grumbled Malachi. “It’s history. But would they listen to me? Nooo.”

Chapter 17

Olpha looked at the clean, but still glowering Orakin in front of her. “OK, Garnet. You are as clean as anyone can get you and you are going to live… As long as you get it into that thick skull of yours that ale is for drinking… Not breathing. .. Got it?” Everyone but Garnet was laughing.

“Ale… Drink… Not Breathe… Got it…” He growled.

Xavier, still chuckling, spoke up. “OK everybody! Let us find our seats again. I would really like to hear the rest of this story… or history… or whatever it is. Malachi? Could you make sure everyone has another mug of this really fine ale?”

Malachi nodded and made his way around the fire circle filling mugs. When he came to Garnet he looked skeptically at the empty mug he held out. “You Sure?”

“Yes damn it… Drink… Do not breathe… I got it!” Malachi laughed and filled the empty mug which Garnet downed and held out again before he could move on. “Hit me again!”

Madelyn picked up the book and looked around the fire circle to make sure everyone was ready. She started turning pages. “Now where were we… Hoy yes… Here it is.” Then she began to read again.

⇼⇼⇼⧫⧫⧫⧫⧫⇼⇼⇼

Suddenly and without even thinking about it Rogue blurted out “You can ride me!”

Thorn and Tam snapped their heads around to stare at Rogue in stunned, disbelieving silence. Rogue was suddenly nervous. He had said something unthinkable for all dragons, but it was what he had been trying to lead up to earlier before the green had shown up. Finally, Thorn found his voice. “Can you… repeat that?”

Rogue nodded almost shyly. “I said that you could ride me… Well, that is if Tam will allow it… And teach me how to do it.”

There was a brief pause as Rogue turned to Tam in the silent clearing. “I can carry a rider like you do. I’m sure of it”

Thorn and Tam stared at Rogue as their minds raced through a lifetime of experience considering the implications of what Rogue was asking. Neither of them had ever heard of anyone ever riding a dragon. If it had happened they never lived to tell the tale. From what they knew of dragons, they couldn’t quite imagine a dragon’s pride being able to allow such a thing to ever happen… But, Rogue was without a doubt a dragon… He had just asked and was standing there waiting for an answer.

Rogue watched the silent pair staring back at him with growing concern. Why didn’t they say something? For that matter why weren’t they moving? Then after what seemed like an eternity, Tam took one step toward him. His head cocked to one side and after a moment it cocked to the other, as he studied him with those golden yellow eyes.

“That… Is a very… interesting idea, Rogue.” Tam slowly and deliberately spoke into the silence while he studied the young warrior dragon, seeing him in an entirely new light. “There is much that we must consider… And talk about… But, yes… I think that I... ” He paused to look at Thorn. “Or rather we… Might be able to help you find a way to carry a rider.”

“Indeed! It is a fascinating idea.” Thorn agreed and began to grin. “One thing is certain. Absolutely no one would ever expect that surprise!” He hesitated slightly before continuing. “Tam is right. There should be a way for you to carry a rider… And from an earlier question, I believe I can see something of a desperate and dangerous thought behind it.” Thorn paused in thought but was still grinning when he continued. “You may be better named than I first thought, young Rogue… Your question has helped me decide which of the two campsites will be the best. But first, there is another question that must be answered before we proceed. “Are you ready to fly and how well you can do it?”

At last Rogue’s nervousness disappeared and he eagerly nodded. “Yes! I’m ready to fly!”

“Good, and the sooner we’re in the air, the better.” Tam agreed, spreading his wings.

Thorn started to laugh. “Not so fast you two! Rogue, once we’re in the air I’ll let you know where to go. Tam and I will be on your left side where we can watch that left wing of yours and see how well it’s holding up. No fancy acrobatics. I’ll have you do some simple maneuvers to test your control. Then once we’re where we’re going, we can have a serious talk about you taking on a rider… Agreed?”

Rogue eagerly nodded his head “Agreed!”

“Good. Tam? Let’s get up there. I want to watch Rogue’s lift off from the air.”

⇼⇼⇼

Rogue was exhilarated to be in the air again but it was only a short flight. Thorn and Tam were at his side the whole time as Thorn had him banking to one side or the other. Sometimes they were just high enough to go unnoticed by a distant observer and at other times they were skimming the treetops. Tam was constantly just above or below him observing how the healed wing functioned.

All too soon Thorn indicated it was time to land and followed him down to a nearly perfect landing. As soon as they were down Thorn had them quickly move into the treeline surrounding a large open space between two steep rocky outcrops.

“That was great! I’m ready to do it again!” Exulted Rogue.

“Not so fast.” Tam called out as he walked up to Rogue’s left side. “How does the wing feel?”

“Really good. At first, there was a bit of tightness, but that went away after a few minutes, and then it felt just like it always does.”

While Rogue was talking Tam was looking at every square inch around the purple scar. “Lift your wing and let me look at the other side,” he directed without further comment. “Thorn? Take a look at this and let me know what you think.”

“Is there a problem?” Rogue was suddenly worried. ‘What if they said… Well, what if they said something he didn’t want to hear?’

“Yes indeed. It really looks good on this side doesn’t it?” Rogue nearly sagged in relief with Thorn’s pronouncement.

“Then it’s alright for me to fly again?”

“You may as well say yes.” quipped Tam. “He’s going to do it anyway… No matter what you say.”

Thorn was all smiles as he turned around to find Rogue’s head snaking around and looking at the wing for himself. “Yes, you will fly again, and soon… But, wasn’t there something else that we were supposed to talk about first? … Something about riders, wasn’t it? And this time… You need to tell us what you’re really thinking… All of it.”

Rogue dropped his head and sheepishly nodded. For the next quarter turn of the sandglass, he poured out his heart and soul while Thorn and Tam listened intently. He ranted about losing his way and not being able to find the river in the fog. He railed about the shame of leading his flight into an ambush. He moaned at the loss of at least two of his teammates to the Green True and was unable to do anything about it. He nearly roared his need for vengeance.

He moaned at being alone, and knowing that attacking them himself was nothing but wishful thinking or fruitless and meaningless suicide. He hissed out his only satisfaction which was killing the green warrior that had attacked him, even though the cost of that victory had been great. He had lost his honor and had nothing but shame to show for what had transpired. Finally, he was silent for a moment and when he spoke again it was in his normal voice.

“Then you two came along and saved my life so that I could fully experience my own degradation… But, whether you meant to do so or not, by your example, you have also given me an idea and a meager hope for redemption. Before you returned from your scouting, I had determined to offer my service in place of Tam, because of his injury… And from my desire to have vengeance.” This time Rogue paused a little longer.

“You two are more than what you seem. I heard what you said after the green left this afternoon. I have seen a small part of what you do together. I owe you my life and I offer myself in your service if it will help. However, I don’t know what to do, and you will have to teach me.”

The silence that followed was absolute as Thorn and Tam Considered Rogue’s words. Finally, Tam turned to Thorn. “Well? What do you think? I can detect no deceit… And, he would be the first dragon. I think the Prince will be pleased with that when he hears of it.”

“You’re right.” replied Thorn. “And it does open a world of new possibilities… Only time will tell.” He turned to face Rogue fully. “Roagerheim of the Red Dragons, known as Rogue, I accept your offer of service, on a probationary level. In the future, you may wish to be more careful with what you ask for… But don’t worry about that for now. We’ll explain more fully as we go along.”

Thorn began to pace as he thought. “There’s not enough time to do a complete training course, so we’ll have to pick and choose what’s appropriate for this situation and cover the rest later. In short, we’re going to have to improvise and hope for the best.”

Tam was nodding as he listened to Thorn while watching Rogue. “Agreed and there’s no time like the present. Rogue? Are you ready to start learning about how to deal with a rider who happens to be an Enchanted Archer too?”

Rogue wasn’t really sure what had just happened or what a Prince had to do with it, but he did know one thing for sure, he was ready to learn whatever he could. “I am definitely ready! Where do we start?”

“Right here,” laughed Thorn.

Tam was chuckling as he spoke. “Rogue, would you mind settling down on your belly and then stretching your neck out along the ground? We need to find the best place for you to carry a rider.

“While we do that, I want you to think about this. It’s important. When you are carrying a rider from place to place and there is no threat to either of you, you are in charge. The rider is an extra pair of eyes and will let you know if he sees anything. He might ask a question or make a suggestion but it is up to you to decide what is best and how best to do it. On the other hand in combat or when there is a threat it will be the rider that is in charge and it will be up to you to do the best you can to follow his lead. It’s a team effort and the more you work together the easier it will become.”

“Rogue? We’ll be touching you and I know you’re not used to that sort of thing. Just try to relax. OK?”

“Alright… I’ll try Thorne… Oh, that tickles.”

“Sorry, I’ll use a firmer touch. Tam? I think right here at the base of the skull, behind the bony ruffle is about the only place a rider will be able to stay seated… And it’s going to take a holding spell for sure.”

“I assume you heard that Rogue,” said Tam. “What do you think?”

“I guess that sounds logical. I never thought about it before. Do you want to give it a try right now?”

“If you don’t mind,” replied Thorn as he grasped a bony spike on the ridge that formed the ruffle. “Here goes.” With one pull and a small leap, he was astride Rogue’s neck and holding on to the ruffle at the back of his head.

“Damn! That really tickles! I have an intense urge to scratch right now!”

“Well, resist the urge if you can. I’ll sit as still as possible and let you get used to me because this really is the only place a rider can stay put once you’re moving around.” Thorn considered his situation carefully. “We should look into making a saddle of some sort when we have the time, but it’s going to need some careful designing. If you flip over in mid-air like you did when the green attacked you… I think it will take a holding spell, even with a saddle to keep from being thrown off.

It took a short while of silence before Rogue spoke again. “Umm… I think it’s OK now. I can feel where you are… But the urge to scratch you out of there is gone.” That brought chuckles from both of his instructors. “What’s next?”

“A holding spell,” replied Tam. “In the future Thorn will automatically do this every time he mounts, just as soon as he’s in place. Then he will cancel it out when he’s ready to dismount. I don’t know for sure what your dragon senses will feel but to me, it’s a warm comfortable feeling that doesn’t ruffle my fur or feathers the wrong way.”

As soon as Tam stopped speaking there was a response from Rogue. “Ohhh… That is nice! It more than makes up for that irritating tickle.”

“Are we friends again?” asked Thorn with a laugh.

“You bet… What’s next?”

“The fun part of course. You and I are going to spend the rest of the afternoon and part of the evening just like this. Where you go, I go… It won’t take long and this will feel completely natural to you, and while that happens we’re going to do some training.”

“And while you two are having fun getting to know each other, I’m flying up to the top of that outcrop and keep an ear out for trouble… And maybe take a nap.”

⇼⇼⇼

“Training?” Rogue was genuinely curious. “What type of training?”

“Well at first we’re going to get used to each other and how we move… This is the first time I’ve ever been perched on a dragon you know. It’s going to take some getting used to. And you’re going to have to get used to me being back here.” Thorn looked around at the trees that surrounded them. “We’ll start out easy if you don’t mind. You can lift your head up and have a look around.” When Rogue complied, “Whoa! Very nice. You’re a lot taller than Tam… I like the view… How does it feel to you?”

Rogue considered what he was feeling for a moment as he moved his head around looking at things. “Weird?... Maybe?” He paused. “You’re much lighter than I expected. The sensation makes me want to scratch… or shake my head… or something.”

Thorn laughed. “Not surprising, but I wish you wouldn’t. The feeling should go away once we are moving around… Speaking of which, go ahead and stand up, then let’s take a walk out to the open space. We’ll take a walk around and look at things. While you’re doing that, I’ll explain what I think we should do.” While they walked around the clearing Thorn quickly adapted to the motion of Rogue’s stride, until it felt like riding a dragon was the most natural thing in the world for him to be doing.

“Rogue, we are going to be taking on those green dragons and especially that big True, but it’s just the two of us and there’s no way we can tackle them head on… And hope to survive. Your instinct is going to be to attack and keep attacking but there are too many of them. The only thing we can do is ambush them like they did you, but unlike the other day, we’re going to hit them as hard as we can. Hurt them as badly as we can… Then run… And hide… Until we can hurt them again. If we hurt them badly enough, I’m counting on that bloody True to lose his temper… And that’s when he’ll make a mistake and we’ll have him on our terms.

“However, for this to work, you are going to have to overcome your instinct to stay and fight. You’re going to have to swallow that dragonly pride and be ready to run away before things can really get started. You will have to accept that hiding to fight another day is not only an honorable tactic but an essential part of many battles. Do you understand what I’m trying to tell you?

Rogue considered Thorn’s words. “In my head, I can see the logic and wisdom of what you are saying… But my heart doesn’t like it. We’ll do it your way of course, and succeed, which is what is important. I’ll get used to it.”

“Good.” Thorn grinned at the honest answer. “Speaking of running and hiding… How is your running?”

“My running?”

“Yes, running. It’s like walking… only a whole lot faster.”

“You mean like this?”

Thorn nearly lost his balance in the sudden burst of speed and would have been thrown off if it weren’t for the holding spell keeping him in place. He was laughing as he regained his equilibrium. “Yes! Exactly like this! Can we go around the clearing a couple of times?” Rogue said nothing but lowered his head and made the double circuit of the clearing as fast as he could.

“That was great!” There will be times that you will need to hit the ground running like that after we hit the greens.” Thorn paused to look at the position of the sun. “We still have a couple of turns of the sandglass before sunset… Did you work up a thirst?”

“A sip of water would be good right now.”

“Let’s go find that stream, and then you can start teaching me what it’s like to fly on the wings of a dragon!”

Later that evening after the sun had set, the three companions relaxed and enjoyed a meal of the two Frost Elk that Thorn had shot during one of the short flights that Rogue had taken him on. While they ate, they talked about the day’s events and Thorn laid out his plan for dealing with the Greens over the next several days. When he was sure everyone understood what he had in mind he took a last bite of the roasted meat.

“Well, as long as we are all in agreement, I guess I’d better check in.” He touched a tattoo on the index finger of his left hand, and an electrum ring set with a black obsidian signet and three small diamonds on one side emerged from the tattoo. Even after all these years, he winced slightly at the pain. Then he touched the center diamond and started speaking in Alphar.

“Are you there?”

“Of course. Where else would I be? It’s about time I heard from you. I was ready to file your obituary.”

Thorn chuckled. “Still too soon for that.” Then with the banter out of the way, he turned serious. “There have been some developments. First, the sorcerer is out of the picture but Tam took a serious hit before the target went down. The pain is under control but the wound is not healing. He is able to fly and I’m sending him across the frontier into red territory at first light. We are in the Salt Witch River basin. He should cross the mouth of the Salt Witch around sunrise.”

“I’ll have someone there to meet him… You’re sending him? That means you’re staying behind?”

“Yes. An associate of the sorcerer, a green True, has come to light and needs to be dealt with… I intend to do some hunting while I’m in the neighborhood. Tam will report the details when he arrives.”

“You are going to take on a green True? By yourself?”

Thorn glanced at Rogue. “Not exactly… I do have help… As I said, there have been some developments. Tam will fill you in… I should mention that I intend to take the True… alive if I can… And I’ll need assistance transporting some damaged goods if all goes well.”

There was a long pause. “I don’t care whether you’re The Obsidian Knight or not… You really shouldn’t believe everything everyone is saying about you.” Thorn chuckled but said nothing. “(sigh)...Very well… I’ll wait for Tam… and then I’ll see what I can do.”

Thorn grinned and touched the diamond again ending the conversation, then he touched the ring and winced as it sank into the tattoo on his finger. “Who was that and what was that all about?” Rogue asked.

“Oh… It’s just one of my partners.” Thorn replied enigmatically which brought a chuckle from Tam as he shook his feathered head.

⇼⇼⇼
The Fourth Day

In the predawn turn of the sandglass. Thorn changed the poultice on Tam’s wound once again and did one last magical healing. “Someday I wish you would look into finding some medicine that smells better than that stinking mess does.” Tam stood up and stretched his wings and then folded them back in place.

“You wouldn’t know what to do if you didn’t have something to complain about.” Thorn grinned and then looked at Rogue. “Let’s have breakfast and finish off those Frost Elk.” He turned back to Tam. “It should be time for you to go when we’ve finished eating.” A short time later, after eating and with the first dim glow of the dawn’s twilight, Tam took wing rapidly gaining altitude as he headed for the mouth of the Salt Witch.

Once Tam had disappeared from sight, Thorn turned to Rogue. “Let’s get up there on that outcrop. I want to take a close look at the greens when they come through here.”

Rogue shivered with anticipation. “I’d like to see that too.” He lowered his head until it was nearly touching the ground. “Climb on and let’s go.” With one fluid motion Thorn all but leapt up and was seated and cast the holding spell. “You were right when you said I’d get used to you being back there. I can feel your presence and it feels right that you should be there.”

Thorn smiled and looked to the east where the predawn light was growing brighter. “The same here. Now, let’s get up to where we can see what’s going on around us.”

Rogue was landing on the rim of the rocky outcrop almost as soon as he’d taken off. Without prompting he quickly walked into the large grove of trees at the summit. “You want to stay where you are? Or would you prefer to get off and move around?”

“I think I need to be on the ground. I’d like to check out the terrain all around us while we wait.” Rogue lowered his head and Thorn leapt off. “Stay with me and you can practice walking through the woods as silently as possible. Think of it as stalking some sort of prey, and you don’t want to be heard. It’s one of the skills you will need to learn.” He paused as he walked deeper into the treeline.

“There was a time in the distant past that dragonkind was very good at this, but… No offense intended… Over the millennia they’ve grown lazy. Today most dragons would rather fly a few meters rather than walk it. By reclaiming that ancient instinct to hunt on the ground, as well as in the air, you are reclaiming skills that can give you an edge in many different situations.”

Rogue considered Thorn’s words and replied quietly. “Interesting… This is something else that I’ve never thought about before. You are certainly opening my eyes to a great many things.” Then he stepped away and began to follow Thorn using a different track through the undergrowth. “I hope you don’t mind pretending to be my prey while we play this game.”

Thorn grinned. “Not at all, young sir… Not at all.” It didn’t take all that long to explore the small copse of trees or to get a good look at the surrounding hilly, forest-covered terrain. About one and a half turns of the sandglass after Tam had taken flight Rogue stopped in his tracks and hissed out to Thorn in a dragon whisper. “I can hear them. They’re coming from that direction, he said, pointing to the northeast. “By the gods! I can even hear them calling out to each other and laughing!”

Thorn smiled grimly. “Excellent. They’re complacent and overconfident in their abilities… We’ll use that and make them regret it.” Without pausing he turned and began to run to the northeast edge of the outcrop. “Come on! Let’s get a look at them.”

When they arrived he whispered to Rogue. “Well done I could hardly hear you.” Rogue just smiled and nodded as he started looking for the incoming flight of greens. He was the first to see them and silently pointed.

“I see them,” Thorn whispered. “Look closely. See how they are more spread out than you and your group were?” He didn’t wait for an answer. “That’s a good strategy… But look at how they’re flying in a straight line… That’s what got you in trouble… And it will get them into trouble too… Quick. Let’s get to the other side and watch them pass.” With that, the pair turned and almost silently raced to the other side of the outcrop, staying inside the treeline.

Thorn and Rogue had to squint into the sun, which was still low in the eastern sky as the flight of greens came into view. “I can see the True and five warriors… and they’re still flying in a straight line… Excellent! Their tails are toward the sun. If we come at them from that angle they’ll never see us until it’s entirely too late… That’s the place where they ambushed you…” Thorn’s whispered running commentary on what he was seeing continued until the flight of green dragons was lost to view.

Thorn was silent and lost in thought for a while. Finally, he spoke. “Rogue? Take a good look at that large clearing below us. Mark it well and remember these two rocky outcrops. They will be visible for miles around. About this time tomorrow morning… All of this will come to an end down there in the clearing… So remember it.” Thorn looked around at the landscape that spread out in front of them. “But first we have a lot of work to do to get ready. Let’s get back down there to the clearing and get started.” Rogue simply lowered his head for Thorn to mount, and when his rider was seated, he stepped off the edge of the rocks and glided down to the clearing. Thorn dismounted and turned around to face him.

“Well young dragon, let’s talk about weapons for a while, shall we? I’ve seen you use your breath weapon to good effect. Your Guild Pin says that you are a Proficient level sorcerer.” Rogue just nodded at this self-evident truth. “What are you capable of doing with that at this point?”

For the next half turn of the sandglass, the two of them discussed Rogue's skills as a Sorcerer. During the whole conversation, Thorn was listening for anything that could become an effective weapon against the Greens given their current situation.

“Can we back up and talk about what you can do with wind? I’d really like to know more about that.”

“Of course. What would you like to know?”

“Well, actually, I’d like to see how you can use it.”

Rogue nodded and a stiff breeze filled the clearing and then died down.

Thorn thought for a moment. “I’m not a sorcerer like you so I can’t begin to tell you how to do something… Other than to ask a few questions and let you work it out… Like, can you narrow the flow down to a point where it is more like a rapidly moving stream or river?” Tam thought for a moment and then there was a strong wind as the much wider breeze of before compressed into a column of wind that quickly died down.

“Can you direct it so that the wind hits a specific spot like that tall pine tree over there? Again Rogue thought for a moment and the Pine shook in the river of wind that struck it and then died away.

“Very interesting Rogue. I assume that you can direct it in any direction.” Rogue nodded and this time the river of wind swept around the far side of the clearing blowing leaves and pine needles off in the process.

“Very good! How are you holding up? How’s your energy holding out? Can we continue or do we need to take a break?”

Rogue started to chuckle. “I think most of the answers are either yes, good, or no… However, I’m fine and we can continue.”

“That’s good to know.” Thorn was silent for a moment as he thought about the griffin riders that he knew who were also sorcerers, and a thought came to him. “OK… What about this? Can you make the wind spin around its axis like a dust devil or a tornado?

“I’ve seen it done but I’ve never tried that one myself.” Then talking to himself “Let’s see now… how do I go about that? Umm… Maybe like this.” A thin spiral of air started snaking out across the clearing like a sideways dust devil.

“Imagine that that Oak tree in the middle is a green dragon.” Almost instantly Thorn regretted his words as the tiny dust devil exploded into an angry tornado that stopped almost as fast as it started, leaving the Oak tree shattered where it had been ripped out of the ground.

Rogue stood there seriously shaken. “By all that is holy to the gods! …I’ve never…” He fumbled for words but failed to find any. Thorn, however, was considerably more successful.

“By all the demons in their hells! I’ve got to learn to be more careful with what I ask!... When I ask it, and Who I ask and what they’re doing when I ask!” He picked himself up off the ground where he’d thrown himself, just to escape being sucked into the violent vortex. “Rogue! Are you alright?”

“I… I… Umm… Maybe?... I’m really not sure!” Rogue just stared at the spot where a magnificent Oak had stood only a few moments before. “I did that?” He asked incredulously.

“Well, it wasn’t me… That much is certain. So yes… I’m pretty sure you are responsible!... And well done it was! Congratulations. I think you have found a weapon that will be as useful to you as your breath weapon.” He paused. “I think maybe we should work on helping you to control that this afternoon. Thorn looked at the position of the sun. “Let’s get a drink and get back up on the outcrop. We can talk about this and rest up a bit while we wait for the second flight of greens.”

The second flight came and went. It was almost boring. They followed exactly the same path as before which pleased Thorn. He liked predictability when it was someone else doing it. The rest of the afternoon was spent flying and practicing various maneuvers so they could get used to each other and work together.

That evening they settled into their new camp site which was where they would launch their ambush in the morning. After a dinner that consisted of a stray Moosecamel they found, Thorn sat back and sighed contentedly. He looked at Rogue. “Well, you have to admit that it’s been an interesting day.”

Rogue grinned around the mouthful of meat he’d chosen as an after-dinner snack. “Interesting is a bit of an understatement I think. It’s definitely been an eye-opener for me.” He finished his snack with a gulp. “What now?”

Thorn sat forward and grinned as only an Alphar on the hunt could. “Here’s what we’re going to do.”

⇼⇼⇼
The Fifth Day

Thorn and Rogue watched as the sun started to rise above the eastern horizon, from the top of the promontory where they had passed the night. The autumn air was crisp and they could see their breath as it turned to a white cloud each time they breathed out. Rogue took note of the two rocky outcrops about four kilometers to the west that marked their destination after the first part of the ambush was completed. Thorn took note of the few clouds to the south, but they wouldn’t affect what he had planned.

“It’s a beautiful sunrise, Thorn.”

“Yes, it is, Rogue. I’m glad we have the time to enjoy it before we get started… How are you feeling?... A little nervous?”

“Just a little… I hope I don’t forget everything you’ve poured into my head when the time comes.”

“You’ll be fine. When the time does come it will all be there. The worst part about any type of operation is the waiting. You keep going over everything and worrying, and then when it starts it seems like it’s over in a flash and you worry that maybe you missed something.” Thorn laughed gently, Rogue smiled, and then they went back to waiting and silently worrying.

Finally it was time. “They’re coming… Same place… Same number of them.” Rogue hissed quietly, as he lowered his head for Thorn to take a seat.

Once he was seated, Thorn gently patted Rogue on the neck. “Let’s go!” Rogue took wing and they rapidly gained altitude as they flew into the sun.

A short while later Thorn looked down and slightly ahead… And there they were. He could see the green True dragon, which was their quarry today, followed by five Warrior dragons. “Great! We’ve got them Rogue! The sun is at our back and their tails are toward us… Remember, we want that bloody True alive if possible. Let’s get them!”

Rogue flapped his wings once more for added speed, and then folded them tightly to his sides and dove downward, as straight as a lance that had been thrown at the heart of his enemy. Gravity took over and as they gained speed it was clear that the greens didn’t have a clue that they were about to have visitors.

Rogue was watching the True, with his unblinking ruby-colored eyes, waiting for just the moment that he and Thorn had talked about. Suddenly they were there and Rogue reached out with his mind and shoved as hard as he could and watched as his enemy was suddenly caught up helplessly in a violent torrent of spinning air. The whole mass was spinning so fast that static electricity began flashing bolts of lightning.

At the same moment, Thorn muttered something in an ancient tongue that created a spark on the tip of the arrow he released. The shaft flew true and struck a warrior dragon between his outstretched wings. A ball of red flame erupted in an explosion that broke the spine of the targeted dragon.

By the time Thorn notched the second shaft, he and Rogue were hurtling through the formation of green dragons. Everything was happening so fast the greens still hadn’t had a chance to react. He released a second arrow as the pair of them hurtled downward and away from the greens. The shaft hit its mark at the base of the neck of another green warrior dragon, exploding in a ball of blue flames that severed the neck from the torso.

As soon as they were clear of the greens, Rogue used his tail as a rudder and headed for the two rocky outcrops that were coming up at them at a startling speed. At the last possible moment he unfurled his wings and they hit the ground running. An instant later they were in the treeline where Rogue finally came to a stop panting hard.

“By everything that’s holy! (gasp) I did it! (gasp) And it worked just like you said it would! (gasp) And I didn’t run into a tree this time! (gasp)” Suddenly Rogue was laughing with the sheer exhilaration of successfully completing this part of the plan.

Thorn was laughing too but for one additional reason. “You certainly did!… By the gods! That was one hell of a ride! We’ve gotta do that again… I wish Tam could have seen that one!” Then he became serious. “OK, Rogue… With any luck at all we can expect a visit from one royally pissed-off green dragon in a few minutes. I’ll be over there… You may still have to play the injured bird gambit and bait him down. I’ll have you covered.” With that Thorn leapt down and raced through the woods to another position in the treeline.

⇼⇼⇼

When the spinning vortex of air suddenly stopped, the True that had been trapped inside it, was thrown off to one side still spinning. He twisted and turned, flapping his wings desperately trying to regain his equilibrium and stay aloft. Finally, with about a hundred meters to spare his wings caught the air and he was able to regain some height over the forest. His flying was slightly wobbly because of the vertigo he was experiencing, but that was not something he was concerned with at the moment. He had been sucker punched by some worthless son of a worm and he was in a blind rage that demanded vengeance. Only the blood of his attacker would satisfy his need… And he would have it or die.

The three surviving green warrior dragons that had been escorting the True, had scattered in shock, even though by the time they did so the threat was over. They quickly recovered and rejoined their leader while keeping a safe distance from the ranting and raging dragon. One tried to report the loss of two of the escorts but fled to a safer distance when the True lunged at him. Another called out from a safer distance. “I saw where he landed! I know where he is!”

“HE! Just one?” Roared the green True. “WHERE ARE THE REST OF THEM!”

“I don’t know sir… I only saw one land over there.”

“SHOW ME!... NOW!” Bellowed the enraged True.

The escort didn’t waste any time on words but immediately flew in the direction of the two rocky outcrops where he had seen a single red dragon land. He quickly got out of the way when the blood-lusting True, who was close behind him, arrived. “HERE?”

“Yes sir! Here!”

⇼⇼⇼

Rogue cocked his head to one side. Then he smiled and called out. “They are coming!”

“Yes, I hear them too! I think everyone for ten kilometers heard him. Let them come. We’re ready for them.” Thorn called back from his position further along the clearing.

Within moments the enraged green True was overhead. “Where are they? There’s no one here!”

“I swear I saw a red warrior dragon land here Sir!” The green escort was beginning to worry about his own safety if the angry True didn’t find what he wanted. “Sir, He’s got to be down there somewhere!”

Thorn watched patiently. He could have brought the True down several times, but he was too high to survive the fall, and he wanted this one alive. He pursed his lips and let out a whistle.

Rogue heard the whistle and knew immediately that he would have to bait the green into coming lower for Thorn. He held out the wing that now sported an angry jagged purple scar and then with an exaggerated limp he edged closer to the treeline and when he was on the edge of the clearing he dropped down as if he had collapsed and lay motionless. Thorn said he would look like an injured bird from the air, and that would entice the green down closer to exact his revenge. So far everything that clever elf had predicted had happened just the way he predicted.

“There he is!” cried one of the green warrior escorts.

“WHERE!... NEVERMIND. I SEE THE SNIVELING LITTLE EGG SUCKER.”

Thorn smiled as the True dropped lower but never quite landing as he made several passes through the clearing.

“AWW, HE’S HURT HIM LITTLE SELF.” Taunted the green. “BUT NOT NEARLY AS MUCH AS I’M GOING TO HURT HIM NOW.”

“Gotcha!” Whispered Thorn as he spoke in the ancient tongue again and released the arrow. As soon as his fingers left the bowstring he held his hand out and spoke in Alphar. Three shimmering Bolts of magic raced the arrow to its mark. The arrow struck the base of the dragon’s tail destroying the bone and nerve complex that controlled it. At the same time the three magical bolts embedded themselves deep into the thigh of the angry beast.

Out of control the dragon fell the final five meters and collapsed when it discovered that one of its legs as well as its tail had ceased to function. The scream of rage and pain nearly filled the Salt Witch basin.

That scream was what Rogue was waiting to hear. Suddenly he was no longer the bait. The wounded bird vanished to be replaced by a red warrior dragon bent on revenge. He lunged toward the much larger green and leaped into the air and let his teeth sink into the leading edge of one of the large green wings. There was the satisfying sound of shattered bone and the even more satisfying taste of his enemy’s blood as the wing ripped and came down to the ground next to Rogue.

Thorn saw the green throw its head back and start to take a deep breath in preparation for releasing its breath weapon of poison gas on its attacker. His bow was drawn and ready to release when he saw the poison duct that brought the gas up to be blown out. He released the arrow and raced in Rogue’s direction.

When the arrow hit it severed the poison duct before it could be used leaving the green nearly defenseless, except for a muzzle full of teeth. He lashed out at Rogue with those teeth, but the little red warrior who was still spitting out bone chips, was much too quick for the injured beast and simply hopped out of the way.

Rogue was nearly at the point of giving in to his dragon instincts and continue the attack until the green was well and truly dead. However, that urge was brought up short when Thorn leaped into position at the base of his skull and called out. “Quick! We’ve got to stop those three warriors before they can escape and report what’s happened. Rogue didn’t hesitate. He immediately leaped into the air and took wing. The chase was on.

⇼⇼⇼

The three surviving green warrior dragons escorting the True had been circling overhead watching in disbelief as events in the clearing unfolded. At last one of them called out to the others. “We’ve got to report this. No one will believe it but we have to tell someone!”

Just then one of the others saw the red warrior dragon that seemed to be the source of all the trouble take wing and head in their direction. He noticed something odd about the dragon, there was some sort of dark spot at the back of his head. He had no idea what it could be, but that had to be reported too. Maybe the Reds had come up with some sort of freak mutation… And that would definitely have to be reported. “You’re right! This has got to be reported. By the gods, I think that thing is coming this way!... And fast! Let’s get out of here!

Rogue honed in on the three greens circling overhead immediately. “Rogue! Fly like all the demons in this realm are on your tail! Those three must not escape!” Cried Thorn while notching another arrow in his bow.

“They’ll not escape! I guarantee it.” With that, he redoubled his efforts, and the gap between them and the fleeing Greens began to narrow. Within a few moments, when he thought he was close enough he called out, “Thorn let me have this one.”

“Go for it!” Suddenly the Green warrior closest to them was caught in one of Rogue’s vortexes, but this time the swirling mass of air dipped down into the trees and slammed up against a hillside. There was no time to check, but Thorn was certain that they would never see him again.

The gap between the two remaining green dragons and their red pursuer continued to close until Rogue first heard, then saw, another arrow from Thorn’s bow. When it struck its target it turned into a red ball of flame like some kind of flower of death. The flame turned everything it touched into cinders on contact.

The last remaining green took a desperate gamble and dived into a narrow winding canyon hoping the Red Dragon behind him would not follow, and if it did, would not be nimble enough to make all the tight twists and turns. Thorn recognized the gambit immediately. Tam and he had done the same on several occasions, albeit not at this velocity.

After two twists and one turn, Thorn had had enough fun for one day and an old childhood spell that made an excellent prank came to him. “I’ve got this one Rogue.” Thorn grinned as he recited the little spell and pushed it with all his strength at the desperate Green ahead of them. When the childish Booger Blaster spell hit, the fleeing green nearly doubled over in a massive sneezing fit that left him totally helpless to avoid slamming into the stone cliffs at the next turn.

“There, that’s much better.” Quipped Thorn while Rogue sailed around the turn. “I think you can stop now… We’re all done.” he called out.

“But, it was just getting interesting.” complained Rogue with a laugh. He slowed down and flew out of the canyon. “Shall we go back for that big Green now?”

“Yep. I think that’s all we need to take care of. He glanced at the sun. “And look! It only took a half turn of the sandglass to take care of them… From start to finish… Not bad Rogue… Not bad at all.”

Rogue smiled and took a leisurely big turn so they could head east and the big clearing where they had something waiting for them. Thorn was enjoying the scenery when something made him sit up and look closer. His concern turned to relief, and a grin nearly split his face. “Hey Rogue, look to the left, over by that gray butte…” He laughed. “ I think we’re about to be rescued.”

Rogue looked and started to laugh too. “Isn’t that Tam in the lead?”

“Yep. That’s him. No doubt about it… Tell ya what… Let’s head straight for them and fly right through just to watch ‘em scatter.”

Rogue laughed. “You got it!” Then he made a gentle banking turn to get on course. Just before the two groups crashed Rogue did a barrel roll and plowed through the lot and just as Thorn predicted they scattered in all directions. All but one stared slack-jawed at something they had never seen before. An Alphar elf waving at them from his seat behind the head of a Red warrior dragon.

The one that was not slack-jawed at all was Tam who was laughing with relief as he watched Thorn smiling and waving from his seat as Rogue finished his barrel roll.

Moments later Rogue and Thorn landed in the clearing where the injured Green lay immobilized… Well, all except for his mouth which was still spewing graphic profanity and dire threats. “There is your triumph, Rogue. You have won back your honor and your fallen comrades have been avenged. Wait for the others to land. Then rear up, spread your wings, and roar to the gods so everyone can take note of your victory.

⇼⇼⇼
Epilogue

Captain Raspurn hurried up to Base Commander Renault with a worried look on his face. “Sir! There’s something I think you better see.”

“Can’t you see I’m busy here? What is it?” growled the Base Commander as he glared at the scar-covered Captain.

“I’d rather not say, Sir. You’ll think I’ve lost my mind, but that flight leader, Roagerheim, who was reported missing in action has turned up with that special group we sent out to look for him.”

“So? That does not warrant my taking the time to deal with him. Handle it yourself.”

“But Sir. It’s what else they brought back… And… UMM… Something else, that you won’t believe unless you see it yourself.”

The Base Commander’s growl didn’t seem to deter the Captain. “Very well, but this had better be good Raspurn…”

Captain Raspurn recognized the implied threat, but there was nothing he could do about that. He turned on his heel. “This way sir!”

When they turned the corner, the ruby-red True dragon that was in charge of the camp came to a halt and stared at the array spread out before him. To his left was an obviously seriously wounded and muzzled Green True. In the center, two griffin riders stood next to their griffins on either side of a Red Warrior dragon that looked vaguely familiar, but he couldn’t quite place him. In front of him stood another griffin. He briefly wondered if he was that rude and demanding wounded griffin that had been brought in yesterday, but he couldn’t be sure. All the griffins looked alike to him. To his right were three more warrior dragons that were obviously part of his command but he didn’t recognize any of them. There were so many new replacements coming in that he couldn’t keep track. Then his eyes snapped back to the red warrior in the center and the most unsettling sight of all. There was an Alphar elf sitting behind the warrior’s bony spiked ruffle!… And looking aggravatingly smug.

“What in the name of all the gods is going on here? Who’s that damn elf! And… And… What the hell is he doing up there!”

Before anyone else could speak the griffin rider standing to the left of Rogue spoke up. “Good afternoon sir… If I may?” With a sweeping motion, he pointed to Rogue and Thorn. Rogue lowered his head and Thorn gracefully dismounted. Then, with Tam protectively leading the way, they took a step forward.

The Alphar that had spoken continued. “Base Commander Renault, may I have the honor to present the Obsidian Knight, Commander in Chief of the Griffinspire Rangers, Thorndyke.” He paused briefly as the two exchanged courteous nods. “...And I believe you may have already met the former Flight Leader, Warrior Roagerheim?” Rogue stood at attention as the base commander stared at him in disbelief.

“Good afternoon Commander.” Thorn raised his hand in greeting. “I suspect that you have several questions… and perhaps a few misgivings?” Renault looked at Thorn quietly for a moment. It was obvious that the Alphar outranked everyone on base, even if he was a foreigner. Rank had to be respected. Especially with these touchy Alphar. Finally, he nodded slightly.

“Indeed I do, Sir.”

“Excellent… And please, call me Thorn.” Thorn’s grin returned. “If I may be so bold as to make a suggestion. Perhaps it would be best if you were to receive a report from Rogue, err, I mean Roagerheim… It will save a lot of time.”

Renault stared at Thorn for a moment considering his words. Then his eyes flicked to the green, and then to the three warriors standing to one side, and then back to the Elf dressed entirely in black armor made in the Alphar style, but was totally devoid of any decoration, save the expected guild pins. “Perhaps you are right.” He glared at Rogue and barked out one word “Report!”

⇼⇼⇼
Six Months Later

Commander Renault and Captain Raspurn stood in the middle of the field that the base used for launching and receiving incoming flights. They had been studying the cloudless blue sky for some time now, but there was nothing to be seen anywhere.

“Well? Where the hell are they?” Renault demanded. “We’ve been out here for half a turn of the sandglass… And nothing!”

“I don’t know sir… All I know is what was in that dispatch you handed me… All it said was ‘Mid Day’.”

They were both startled when a portal flashed open about a hundred meters above. A griffin and six Warriors flew out and the portal snapped shut. “They know how to make an entrance.” Captain Raspurn said as he watched the flight perform a perfect wheel to the right and then head in their direction.

“Just what we need… A bunch of damned show-offs. It’s a waste of magic.” Growled Renault as he watched the flight land in front of them with perfect precision. “By the gods! They’ve got that brass-heavy elf with them. The one they call the Obsidian Knight! Guess that makes my day complete.”

Thorn was grinning as they came in for a perfect landing in a straight line. “Well done everyone! Rogue let me down. I want to go say hi to the natives.”

Rogue snorted a stifled laugh as he dropped his head. “You’ll make his day. Renault’s a ‘by the book’ officer, and he doesn’t have much of a sense of humor.”

Thorn gracefully dismounted “I promise I’ll play nice.” He glanced up at the sun as he approached the two waiting dragons. “Good afternoon…” He raised a hand in greeting. “It’s good to see you again Commander Renault… And you too, Captain Raspurn.”

“The pleasure is all ours sir.” Renault replied. Raspurn just gave a respectful nod. Renault was still a little unsettled by the idea of a dragon having a rider. The sight of six of them all at once was a bit unnerving, especially when he recalled what just one pair of them had done right here under his nose six months ago. “I see you’ve brought the new recruits with you.”

Thorn turned to look at the line of dragons and their riders. “Actually, they brought themselves. Tam, Rogue, and I just came along for the ride. Somehow it seemed right since it all started here.”

Captain Raspurn had been silent until now. “They’re going to change everything aren’t they.” It was more of a statement than a question and both of the other officers looked at him, but it was Thorn that spoke.

“Not everything Captain… The sky will still be blue, and the grass will still be green… but yes… There are a number of other things that will never be the same.” Thorn paused. “These five will be stationed here, the rest of the division is being dispersed to other command stations. As you are aware they are under a separate command but they will work closely with you as the need arises.” He paused again. “They’ve taken to calling themselves the Scarlet Nights. They’re well-trained rangers.” He paused once more. “It’s not their mission, but just by existing… They will bring change.”

⇼⇼⇼

And that, gentle reader, concludes the Legend of the First Dragon Rider, that had been chosen by a dragon, who thought an impossible thought, and dared to make it a reality.

⇼⇼⇼⧫⧫⧫⧫⧫⇼⇼⇼

Madelyn closed the book and looked around the fire circle. “WOW! That was really good. Thanks Mom. I really love it when you read. You make it sound so real.”

Madelyn smiled at the praise from her son. “Thank you, Aegir. As always, it is my pleasure.”

“It was a good story.” commented Garnet, then added with a growl, “But it figures that it would have to be a non-self-respecting Red… And I still think ‘Dragon Riders’ are…”

Xavier cut him off before he could complete the thought. “A very interesting idea. It opens up a whole new arena of tactics to think about… ”

“Doubtful... Maybe… Oh Hell! Who knows!” came the grudging reply.

Slaygo spoke up next. “It is a great story” he asserted, then continued. “The only part that doesn’t really make sense is the part about the ‘enchanted archer’. Nobody really knows what that is all about. A lot of people think that is just a myth, about someone in the distant past who was a really good archer using magic arrows… or something.” Everyone, except Ardi, smiled knowingly but said nothing.

Xavier stood up and yawned. “Well, I think I should go to bed.” He looked at Madelyn with a smile. “Thank you again for the story. I really hope we can talk you into reading another one to us.”

“It really was my pleasure Xavier, and if you want another one, all you have to do is ask. It would be my honor.”

“I think bed is a good idea for some of us.” Mablin looked around at the group with satisfaction. They were full of astonishing surprises and could be very frustrating sometimes, but it felt right to be with them. “We are going to have a very busy day tomorrow, and I’d like to get an early start.”

Mablin stood up, albeit a bit wobbly. Then he realized that he didn’t have his wagon here. “Um… Does anyone have an extra bed roll? I can camp out here by the fire.”

“You can use my tent Sir Mablin.” Syth said firmly. “I will bunk in with Malachi… If he promises not to snore.”

“And I will be glad of the company… If you promise not to grind your teeth!” retorted the laughing dwarf.

“Ardi? You and Slaygo will be staying with me. Slaygo can have Aegir’s bed since he stays with Garnet now. Without Gradon being here there is more than enough room” Madelyn paused. “That reminds me. Bruin told me that he heard wagons arrive and it sounded like they were setting up camp, so I think the caravan got here.”

“Thank you Madelyn. Slaygo can stay here tonight, but I think I should go check on the Caravan and see if Gradon needs me.”

“Nonsense!” Mablin retorted. “You stay with Madelyn and get some rest. You’ve earned it after a day like this… Besides, Gradon is more than capable of dealing with that lot.

“Nimbi and I will take the first watch,” Lew announced.

“Wake me for the second watch.” Garnet directed as he entered his tent with Aegir behind him.

“The hunters should be back any time now. We’ll work out a schedule and let you rest. No offense, but you need it much more than we do.” Garnet just nodded his agreement and disappeared into the tent.

“May I join you for the watch?” Ardi asked.

“Yes Ma’am… Nimbi and I will be glad of the company.

Three quarters of a turn of the sandglass later silence had fallen over the camp. Ardi and Lew were looking at the sand skimmers and talking quietly when Nimbi cocked her head to listen. Alerted by her posture, Lew listened carefully for a moment. “The hunters are back. Let us go meet them, and I will introduce you.”

“Sounds good… Lead the way.”

✶✶✶✶✶

Syth sat cross-legged on the floor next to the hearth in Malachi’s forge. His calm and relaxed posture belied a mind that was a whirl of thoughts. Tonight’s story had planted an indelible image in his mind. He imagined all the different ways he could fulfill his purpose in protecting Xavier. He could keep up with both Xavier and Garnet and he could go all the places they went, especially those that currently left him behind and helpless.

Of course there was one small problem. It seemed extremely unlikely that he would ever encounter a warrior dragon as open minded as the one in the story, but if by some chance, the gods presented the opportunity, he was prepared to jump on it.

It was the sound of the returning hunters that brought him out of his reverie. He stood up and went outside to greet them, quietly closing the forge door behind him. As he watched, Lew and Ardi walked up to the group. He paused and studied the group for a moment and then quietly murmured. “I’ll talk with Killian… And then… A private word with Lew.”

Lew looked at the Dagger Boar draped over Suiadans carapace and smiled. While he looked it over Nimbi walked up and touched noses with the Bear Scorpion by way of telling him ‘hello’, panther style. “It looks like you had a successful hunt.” Lew’s comment was met with the four hunters chuckling.

“Indeed!” Thane said quietly. “It was good to get out and about.

“We certainly got out and about.” Hontel chuckled softly so as to not wake anybody up. “That thing led us on a merry chase.”

“Actually, Lucas was doing the tracking, so he was the one doing all the merry chasing.” Killian observed with a smirk on his face. “All we had to do was follow along and try to keep up!”

“It was worth it though…” Lucas was grinning. “The look on Killian’s face when that thing came charging out of the brush and headed straight for him! It was priceless!” Even Ardi, Lew and Syth were smiling at the image Lucas portrayed.

“I did get two throwing daggers in him, which only made him angry, but he changed his course, and that gave Killian time to conjure up a spear and finish him off.” Hontel was still excited by what had happened.

“It was over so fast that I had little more time than to draw my sword.” Thane added. “It was an impressive and clean kill. We had just finished cleaning and dressing the carcass, when Amakiir let me know that he saw Xavier and Garnet returning… How are they?”

“Hontel!” Olpha had surprised them by walking up and not making any noise.

“Yes, Olpha?”

“You have been out all day. How are you feeling?”

“Well, I do ache more than usual…”

“That is what I figured. Going on a hunt two days after having sustained almost critical injuries! Come with me now. You are resting the rest of the night… And perhaps part of tomorrow. We’ll just have to wait and see.” She latched onto a shoulder and force marched him to her cottage.

Once they were out of sight, Syth continued. “They are well… exhausted, but well. They returned before we had a chance to warn Mablin…” Syth nodded toward Ardi “... and his companions about what to expect… Needless to say there was a bit of excitement when two dragons landed in camp…”

It was Ardi’s turn to chuckle at the memory now that a little time had passed and she had a chance to get to know Xavier and Garnet a little bit. “Actually, I would have said there was more than just a little excitement, but that’s just me. Now that I know Xavier and Garnet a little better, I think I’ve managed to recover my wits again.”

“Ardi, please excuse my lack of manners.” He turned to the group. “Gentlemen, this is Lieutenant Ardi, she is in charge of the new drivers and guards Mablin hired for the caravan. She, and her son Slaygo, accompanied Mablin when he decided to hand the caravan over to Gradon and hurry to get here well ahead of him. I’m sure you will hear much more about this tomorrow.”

When Lew turned back to her she smiled. “Please guys, just call me Ardi.”

“Ardi,” Lew said with a nod. “May I present…” He pointed to each individual as he spoke. “This is Thane, and his pet Suiadan.” Suddenly there was a THUD! Which Lew took in stride even if Ardi did jump. “And making his debut this evening is his pet gargoyle, Amakiir. Standing next to them are Killian, Lucas, and being dragged away by Olpha, was Hontel.” After everyone had exchanged quiet greetings, Lew continued, “Ardi, Hontel doesn’t know about many things here. I’ll tell you why in a just a bit.” Lew then looked at the Dagger Boar. “What are your plans for this?”

Lucas took charge. “We need to get it on a spit and over the fire. By the time morning gets here it will be ready for…” He looked at Killian and grinned. “A royal breakfast.”

Ardi didn’t get the reference but smiled as Killian blushed and the others chuckled quietly. “Good.” Lew said. “Then, we need to work out a schedule for tonight’s watch. We don’t want to wake Garnet or Xavier if we can help it. Mablin was a bit in his cups, so I do not think he will awaken. Ardi and I have the first watch.”

It took less than half a turn of the sandglass to have the boar spitted and cooking, and to work out the watch schedule. A quarter of a turn of the Sand glass after that the camp had returned to a restful quiet that would last until the break of dawn.