The Dragon Swords

By Gavin Coleman

A series of 10 short stories telling about the trials that a small group of dragons must face as they battle against an evil human tyrant who threatens to destroy them all.

The Heroes and Villains Series details the brave exploits of the early days of the main characters--both good and evil--from the Jai'Quel Wars Series and Miracle Prince Series. Learn how and why they act the way they do in those other books.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Gavin Coleman
• Release date: Aug 20, 2011
• ISBN: 9781465788221

Gavin Coleman

Gavin Coleman lives with his wife and 3 children in western Florida. Dakota is my son and has created the Dakota Dragon series of stories for children.

Book preview

The Dragon Swords Series

By: Gavin Coleman

Part 1 – Creation of the Dragon Swords

Part 2 – Disciples of Fel’aran’thir

Part 3 – Tragedy of Trelgon

Part 4 – Saga of Salachus

Part 5 – Firewing’s Quest

Part 6 – Scions of Darkness

Part 7 – The Serpentine Daggers

Part 8 – The Battle of Trelgon

Part 9 – The Power of the Daggers

Part 10 – The Final Battles

©2006 by Gavin Coleman

All rights reserved. No part of this

book may be reproduced in any format

without the written permission of the author.

Smashwords Edition

CREATION OF THE DRAGON SWORDS

Arching his thick and muscular neck against the warmth of the afternoon sun, Flare stretched out flat on the large rock that he had unceremoniously dubbed Dragon’s Perch. While all the other young dragons were cooped up inside the large caves and valleys for their daily schooling sessions, Flare skipped out, coming to his favorite rock to relax and enjoy the sun. Many would argue that the young golden dragon did nothing but sleep.

Flare could hear the words now; the angry jeering remarks of his older brothers Goldfire and Fireice, the snide comments that his twin sister Rana snapped at him even as her jaws nipped at his tail, and the look of abject disappointment that could be seen within his parents’ eyes every time they looked at him. Truth to tell, Flare was a dragon on a mission and for the moment he was waiting for that mission to come along. He was filled with gut feelings, telling him that he was destined for some great task. It just hadn’t come yet and he considered it his honorable duty to relax and build up his strength for when it did happen.

He thought back to his younger days, just about ten years after he hatched from his egg. There had been another young dragon born to his parents, named Nerus, yet shortly after birth the hatchling had disappeared. His father always claimed that someone had spirited the young dragon away and no one had been able to locate him. Flare didn’t believe a word of it. With all the mental capabilities of all the dragons on this island and the combined magical skills, they would have been able to locate one young dragon. Flare therefore considered this one of his top priorities: to someday find his long-lost younger brother.

Flare! You lazy no-good excuse for a Wyrm! A loud and sneering voice yelled at him from behind. "Move your tail and go to the Council Hall! Now, boy, or the scales will really fly if you’re late!

Flare rolled over onto his belly and leaped up, his bleary and sleep-filled eyes scanning the skies for the voice. Firewing? What… what’s going on? He recognized the other youth as one of those from his own class at school.

Just move it, Flare! Your father himself has commanded it! Firewing banked sharply and winged quickly back in the direction he had come.

Gasping, Flare leaped into the air and flew hard to the south. His wings pumped hard, as the circulation was forced to flow rapidly through them. He felt the irritating needles that always came when he forced himself to move after sitting for a long time and grimaced, forcing himself to ignore the pain and fly hard. Alright! I’m coming…

There was a large gathering in the large bowl-shaped valley that was termed the Council Hall. It was the official meeting place for all the dragons and had ledges all along the upper sides for the Elders of the Council; those privileged dragons that were chosen to create the laws and disperse justice throughout the dragon isles. All of the Elders were present, as well as just about every gold and silver dragon in the various clans of the isles. Flare flew into the valley right on Firewing’s tail and spiraled to the ground beside his twin sister and two eldest brothers. All three sneered at the young dragon and shook their heads disapprovingly.

Out playing again, Flare? When you should’ve been with me in class? Rana sighed, glancing at her twin.

Flare sighed and looked away, gazing up at the ledges where the Elders sat until he spied his own father. What’s going on, Rana? Have you heard? She shook her head and motioned him to silence as their father began to speak.

Noble Dragons, after long hours of discussion with the Council, we have decided upon a plan to end the senseless and bloody wars within the human lands. Flarestar waited for the murmurs to cease before continuing. As some of you may not know, the humans have been warring against evil for nearly 15 years with no end in sight. And just now the elves have been drawn into the fray and are battling the hordes that threaten to swallow their homeland. It is up to us, the Eldest of the Races, to end this terrible war. My sons, Goldfire and Fireice, please step forward.

All of the dragons stepped back a few paces so that those mentioned could come forward. They looked up at their father, standing tall and proudly, awaiting his next words. We have decided to imbue several weapons with the spirits of Dragons. These weapons will be entrusted to a group of noble humans who will use the power to bring peace to the land and allow it to continue throughout the years. We do this for, as you may recall, the Dragons have been forbidden from interacting directly with the world. Are you ready, my sons?

Goldfire nodded curtly, though his face was white and the fear was evident upon his features. Aye, father, I’m ready.

Fireice scoffed and thrashed his tail from side-to-side. Trapped inside a steel blade? Summoned by humans? Never, Father! You degrade us by allowing this to happen!

Goldfire nudged his brother sharply with a claw. Not now, brother. This must be done. Quit acting like a kid and accept your fate!

The younger dragon sighed and subsided a bit, though he continued to scowl fiercely up at his father. Alright… I’ll accept it, but I don’t have to like it.

Flarestar smiled down at his spirited sons. You may learn to like it, young Fireice. You will not be trapped and will be available to provide the humans with the necessary advice and wisdom they have great need of. Your strength and magic will always be a great asset to their cause.

One of the Elders to the side of Flarestar glanced at the venerable golden dragon and suddenly lifted his head in a shrill cry. His clear tone echoed loudly throughout the valley, where the others of the Elders joined in, creating one single clear voice echoing through the land. Flarestar didn’t join in on the song. Claws clenching tightly; his tail thrashing violently against the stone behind him; the venerable dragon called out a loud and bold prayer to the great God of the Dragons Fel’aran’thir himself.

Noble Fel’aran’thir, hear my call!

Grant to me the power to entrust

Those humans of great worth with an even greater power

With the spirits of Dragons to guide

With the strength of Dragons to fight

With the wisdom of Dragons to lead

Lend me the power to put an end to these petty wars that tear apart the continent

Goldfire, my Eldest son,

You are known for your wisdom and courage

Your strength is great and you use it wisely.

Go, my son, and lend this strength to the human leader of Trelgon, Lord Trevor Sargan.

Fireice, known for your strength and courage

Never have you backed down from a fight

No matter how hopeless

Lend this strength, my son, to Lord Kevwin Sargan, human leader of Salachus.

Flarestar stabbed his claws out wide, howling a low song, blending harmoniously with the other dragons. One claw pointed directly at Goldfire’s heart, while the other jabbed at Fireice’s heart. A swirling golden light glowed about them both, rising up into the air and seemingly striking the sun, then lancing back down to collide with the dragons in a shimmering explosion. All of the onlookers were forced to look away from the spectacle. No sound could be heard from the two sons of Flarestar. When the brightness cleared, all that remained of Goldfire and Fireice were two brilliant swords. Each was trimmed with gold along the hilts and possessed a large majestic dragon perched upon the pommel. Shimmering runes of silver were engraved upon the diamond-edged blade, casting a brilliant dance of colors as the bright sun shone down on them.

Flare gasped, staring at the spot where his brothers stood. Rana similarly shook her head in sorrow and crept closer to her twin, devoutly hoping that the same wouldn’t happen to them. Flare swallowed slowly and glanced up at his father, meeting his gaze, seeing what was in the Elder’s eyes. We’re next, Rana. And I won’t put up with it.

The Elders ceased their song and turned once more to Flarestar, who continued to stare at his twin children. Flare and Rana, step forward please, my children.

Flare shook his head, twining his tail around his sister’s for a moment. He glanced at her, a questioning look in his gaze, hoping that she shared his views and would stand by him. A relieved expression came over the young dragon’s face as she nodded ever so slightly and remained standing near him. Flare turned to face his father, standing as tall and proudly as possible. No, father, we will not agree to this mockery of a ceremony. You disgrace the dragons with these actions; and all of the rest of the dragons shame us by sitting here and watching it happen. Neither I nor my sister will sit back and allow it to happen. With a powerful leap into the air, both Flare and Rana sprung into flight, circling about the valley and their startled father.

You betray your clan and your family, boy. Think what you are saying and what you do. Take your place back amongst the others and accept your destiny. Flarestar glared at his upstart son; the disappointment stronger than ever before in his eyes.

I will not, Father! WE will not! We will not allow you to take away our freedom! Flare spread his wings wide and flicked his tail in annoyance at the gathering of dragons, then flew towards the north, climbing higher into the sky until his form was lost among the clouds. Rana scowled as well and followed her twin.

The gathering of dragons was silent, staring at the disappearing youths who had the audacity to disobey an Elder and disrupt a sacred ceremony. Murmurs arose loudly from their ranks as heads shook and tails thumped against the ground. Firewing continued to watch the sky, though he couldn’t see the twins anymore. Though he had always hated Flare while they were in class together, he admired the young dragon at this moment, knowing that he never would have had the courage to stand up to the Elders like that. No matter how much he would have wanted to. Firewing glanced towards the dozen of his friends, young dragons of gold, silver and bronze, then leaped into the air himself and flew quickly to the north. His friends followed him silently.

Flarestar watched the youngsters fly away as well and a multitude of thoughts began to flutter about his head. Was I wrong in doing this? Am I shaming the dragons? He shook his head and sighed, refusing to believe that his actions could disgrace an entire race of proud dragons. Just the rash anger of youth; the Elders agreed with me. We’re doing the right thing. The venerable gold turned once more to the gathering and raised his voice. Good Dragons, please, return to your homes and studies. This has been a tiring and unusual day for us all. Let us rest and pray to Fel’aran’thir for the safety of our home and the noble intentions of our plan. Let us pray that it shall work as we all intend.

The murmurs grew louder amongst the dragons as they spread wings and flew from the Council Hall in groups; the younger dragons remaining with those of their own age and the older mingling with those as old as or older than themselves. Flarestar watched this absently; not even noticing as Boldwing, one of the Silver Elders flew over to perch beside him.

You fully intend to exile the young outlaws, don’t you, Eldest? Boldwing was always known for his harsh tongue. He never gave anyone a second chance when they committed a wrongful deed and would never offer mercy, no matter who the transgressor was. They have some nerve, speaking to the Eldest in such a manner. He scoffed, thwacking his tail into the face of mountain and sending a small spray of rocks tumbling down. And those other youngsters, led by Firewing, flying out of the Council with no word and without permission. They ought to be punished or exiled as well.

Flarestar made no response, merely staring up at the sky. Sadly enough, he knew that the Silver spoke the truth. To preserve the law both Flare and Rana would need to be exiled. And the other youngsters would at least need to be punished. Though he had always been disappointed with his youngest son, Flarestar had in fact loved him the most. Young Flare had always reminded the dragon of his own childhood and of his own rambunctious and willful ways. How could any father willingly exile his own son? And yet, to preserve the law, he must. Aye, they must be exiled, Boldwing. He cursed his words silently, hating the Silver for forcing him to speak them. And Firewing… that young dragon must be punished severely. We cannot allow those attitudes to be fostered amongst the rest of the dragons. He will be exiled, though his followers will be given the choice of accompanying him or entering into the Dragon Patrols. Some strict military discipline will be good for them.

Boldwing nodded in full agreement. Very good decision, Eldest. He grinned maliciously for a moment. Shall I announce the news to the doomed youngsters?

The Eldest of the Council shook his head. No, Boldwing. Let them reside one more night within the isles in peace. It will be sprung upon them at dawn. With those final words, Flarestar leaped into the air and spread his wings, banking towards to the east and his own home.

*

Flare landed upon Dragon’s Perch and angrily slammed his tail against it. "Damn them all! How dare they try to put me into one of those swords? Father must be out of his mind… he…" The words sputtered off, so livid was the young dragon.

Brother, please. We left; we flew away from Father and the Elders and disobeyed them. We will likely be exiled for those actions. Please calm yourself. Rana curled up upon the perch and rested her hand on her forelegs. Where are we to go now?

We do not know that we have been exiled. Father is not strong enough to exile his own children. Flare argued, feeling in mood to argue and curse and scream.

The others will pressure him into it.

Flare grinned in anticipation. I’d love to join those wars. Just imagine flying in proudly to Trelgon or Salachus, watching the humans fall over themselves in awe of our power and majesty. They’d give us anything in return for our aid in their war. And we’d be more than willing to take it.

You can, Flare. I will not leave here just to enter into a war. I’d sooner return to the council and apologize for leaving, hoping that they would forgive my actions.

Flare stared at her for a moment in hurt silence, shaking his head. We’re twins, Rana. We should be together. We…

We are not necessarily alike, Flare. Rana closed her eyes. Please, let me sleep. I am tired.

Flare sighed and turned away from her, walking off a little ways. Ah, I don’t need her, just myself. All I need is myself. She would only get into the way. He sprawled upon the rock, resting in the warmth of the afternoon sun.

*

Flare soared high through the sky, reveling in his newfound freedom from annoying Elders and stifling rules. The young gold flew south, towards the mainland of Tetron, diving down among the mountains and snatching a hare just poking its head out of its lair. The dragon ate as he flew, smacking his lips in appreciation of the wonderful meal, his first in his new life of freedom.

Flare then banked sharply to the east, around the southern spur of the Barrier Peaks, cutting through the easternmost pass, blocked by the imposing fortress of Trelgon. The warriors of Trelgon, led by the Sargan family, were the main forces blocking the evil inhabitants of Drakenmoore from overrunning the rest of the continent. And Flare knew from the Elders that the citizens of the Drakenmoore, located adjacent to Trelgon, were growing more powerful and would soon overwhelm the mighty fortress.

Grinning, the dragon dipped down towards the walls, expecting to be greeted heartily. Instead, he saw numerous longbows, crossbows and javelins pointed at him. Growling softly, Flare pulled up and hovered just outside of the fortress. Citizens of Trelgon, I am….

"Halt, Dragon! We know who you are. One warrior hissed cocking his bow and aiming at the dragon. Come no closer if you wish to live."

"But, I’ve come to help. I’m on your side." Flare started to edge closer to them.

"Dragons are the enemy! I said, come NO closer!" The bolt of the crossbow launched forward, hissing through the air. Flare felt the steel tip nick into his neck, and then felt himself sliding into darkness…

*

Flare! Wake up! Again, someone pecked at his neck. The young golden dragon growled and rolled over, swatting at the annoyance. His wings flapped fiercely as though he was flying and his claws clenched tightly. Flare’s tail arched over his back and whipped hard back and forth.

OW! A shrill voice yelled loudly, jumping away from him.

Flare leaped to his feet, shaking his head and looking around, finding himself once again upon Dragon’s Perch. Huh? Who’s there?

Flare, it’s just me. Rana scowled at him, rubbing her nose with a claw. There’s someone to see you. She gestured towards Firewing, flanked by a dozen golds and silvers and bronzes.

Sorry, Rana. I was just having this… horrible dream. I didn’t mean to hurt you. He watched her nod slightly and turn away from him. The young gold sighed and looked to Firewing. Firewing? What are you doing here? Come to bring me back to the Council?

By Fel’aran’thir, NO, Flare! The other gold youth swaggered towards Flare. I admired your actions, Flare, and just wanted to let you know that soon after you left, we did as well. I wish I had had the courage to do what you did. I disagreed with the Elders as well.

Cocking a brow at Firewing, who had always hated him as dragonlets, Flare nodded slightly. "You admired me?"

Yes. We all did. And likely we all put ourselves in as much trouble as you both are in. But we’ll survive together. Firewing crouched on the ground, noting that many of his friends had done so as well. I just wanted to let you know that you had a few friends on your side.

Flare glanced at Rana, then back to Firewing. I wonder they’re waiting for?

To make us sweat. Firewing grinned. Since they will likely exile us anyway, shall we have some fun?

Naw. I’m still tired. I have to think about what to do once I leave here. Flare settled back onto the flat rock, resting his head on his forelegs again.

Firewing sighed, but remained where he was. Aye, might as well rest. They will come for us soon and we should be rested for the long trip through exile.

*

Early the next morning, Flarestar landed softly within the plains where Dragon’s Perch was located. The other ten members of the Elders were arrayed in a line behind him. The venerable gold dragon stared at his son and daughter, sleeping peacefully upon the rock and suddenly didn’t think he could go through with it. His heart failed him and he nearly stumbled over his claws and into the grass. Flarestar lifted his head proudly, glancing to the right where Boldwing flanked him. He knew that the ancient Silver was just waiting for him to stumble and fail so that he could step in and take charge. The venerable Gold lifted his voice loudly so that all of the dragons present would hear.

Flare, Rana, and Firewing! He shouted. Come forward, young dragons, and face the judgement of the Dragon Council!

The three dragons mentioned shook themselves and groggily looked up, squinting in the bright sunlight glaring down upon their sleep-filled eyes. Wings beating softly behind his back, Flare glanced over at the other two. This is it, he murmured softly. He rose to his claws and walked forward. Rana and Firewing slowly followed him. The dozen youths that had followed Firewing remained crouching in the grass, watching the proceedings.

Yes, Father? Flare glanced at the venerable Gold dragon, noting the sadness within his eyes and the looks of hatred directed towards Boldwing. Judgement?

For your disrespectful and blasphemous attitudes and actions at the Council, Flare, you and your comrades Rana and Firewing are hereby sentenced to exile from the Dragon Isles. You will be given a chance this morning to bid your families farewell and collect any personal possessions. By noon you will leave and never return. Flarestar turned towards the dozen friends of Firewing. And you, young dragons, will be given the choice of following these three into exile or serving within the Dragon Patrols.

The young dragons glanced among themselves for a moment. Three of them, all bronze dragons, leaped into the air to stand before the Elders. Spark, the largest of the three, bowed his head to the Eldest. We will accept your gracious offer, Eldest, to join the Patrols in the hopes that our names will be cleared of these grievous actions. The two bronzes behind Spark flicked their tails slightly towards Firewing.

I am glad to hear that some of you feel the need to repent your actions. Report to the southern outpost and see Talon Commander Flashfire. Flarestar declared. He waited until the three youths flew away, and then addressed the others. Since you apparently chose to remain with your friends, you will be exiled as well. Two of the Elders, Boldwing and a bronze named Flash, stepped away from the rest and crouched near the edge of the plains, watching. They will keep an eye on you. If you wish to say farewell to your families, they will be brought here to you. At noon, they will escort you from the Isles. Flarestar stepped aside and the rest of the Elders spread their wings and flew away. The Eldest approached his son and daughter and led them to one side.

Flare, Rana, though I am disappointed in your actions, I understand them. It was not my wish to exile you, but those such as Boldwing pressured me into it. And we must preserve the laws.

I understand, Father. Flare muttered, looking down. It was my action and I deserved it.

Your brothers are aiding the humans in one way. I ask that you aid in another, however you see fit to do so. I fear that this war will spread to the dragons anyway. He casually dropped a couple objects on the ground. Use those if you need to communicate with me, though tell no one that I gave them to you. He grinned slightly. Otherwise I will be joining you in exile. Boldwing would see to it. He twined his neck first around Flare and then Rana. "I love you both. And even though