Dragon Heart

By Dave Transou

Ten thousand seasons have passed since the DragonHawk Wars and the collapse of the Star Empire. DragonHawks and Dragon Hunters have faded into obscurity. The Star Trader Galaxy is a shadow of the old Star Empire and its inhabitants, the Star Traders, a far cry from their Star Folk ancestors.
The Royal Republics War continues to slowly grind, as neither side can gain an advantage over the other. The once magnificent cities of the InWorlds lay in ruin, what’s left of their populations growing more and more desperate as an uneasy stalemate settles over the combatants. The black markets are flourishing, as smugglers fight among themselves for the best routes and markets.
In the aftermath of the Battle of Conborine, the Frontier Council is struggling to respond to what some called a “surprise attack” by the StarHawke Tycho’s Hawkkur Legion. Meanwhile, work on the repair facility has ground to a halt as the bruised and battered Star Traders from T&B Spaceyards anxiously await a desperately needed relief mission from Gaanard.
The Trade continues to struggle with a coherent trading policy towards the InWorlds and the OutWorlds. Trading with the Royal Republics has significantly decreased due to the war. Meanwhile, the Star Trader Council is divided on what to do about the StarHawke Tycho’s action on Conborine, as rumors about the battle run rife throughout the Trade.
Fresh from their victory over the Rahhol DragonHawk Nafiss Atou, the Tycho Star Traders are celebrating the growing romance between Lord Elias Hawkes and Lady Annie Tolen. Many seasons from now, Star Traders would tell their children the story about the evil Rahhol DragonHawk who sent his Dragon Hunters to kidnap a beautiful Drakkon Princess, knowing that the brave Drakkon Prince who loved her would not hesitate to come and rescue her.
Meanwhile, the Hawkkur Legion remains on a war footing, as Rahhol DragonHawks and Dragon Hunters come out of hiding to attack the Tycho Drakkon. Time grows short as they prepare for the Return of the Great Dragon, and the restoration of the Star Empire. The cost will be high, but all they can do is hope, that in the end, there will be peace among the Thousand Galaxies of the Known Universe.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Dave Transou
• Release date: Dec 20, 2015
• ISBN: 9780989836500

Dave Transou

I retired from the U.S. Navy in 1992 as a Senior Chief Machinist Mate, MMCS(SS). Since then I have been working in the training and development field while I work on my writing. I was born in Houston, Texas, but grew up in Baytown, just down the road. I graduated from Ross S. Sterling High School in 1971. As soon as I could I joined the Navy, retiring 21 years later. I was assigned to the Machinery Division, Generator Gang on USS Forrestall, CVA-59, Auxiliary Division on USS Detroit, AOE-4, where I also qualified as Machinist Mate of the Watch in the Aft Engineroom. I was a Company Commander at RTC Orlando, Fl., leading six companies of recruits through Navy Boot Camp before volunteering for submarine duty in 1981. I served as Auxiliary Division Chief on the USS John Adams, SSBN-620 (Gold) out of Charleston, SC; a Ship Control Instructor and a member of the Curriculum and Instructional Standards Office at the TRIDENT Training Facility at the Bangor Submarine Base, WA; and as the Auxiliary Division Chief and Maintenance Coordinator on the USS Aspro, SSN-648, in Pearl Harbor, HI until we retired in 1992. My wife Cindy, our three sons David, Will, and James, and I moved back to the Houston area after I retired. We wanted the boys, who grew up in Navy towns - Norfolk, Orlando, Charleston, Bremerton, and Pearl Harbor, to have an opportunity to learn about our families. So we moved back into the middle of them! I started by “civilian” career as an Instructional Designer and Training Developer in the oil and gas industry where I am still employed. At least until I sell enough books... As for the writing, I’ve been writing the DragonHawk Saga for some time now, albiet in bits and pieces from writing endeavours that were primarily designed to entertain myself during long underway times. There’s ten main stories in the Saga, some of them are already partially written. I hope you enjoy them!

Book preview

Dragon Heart

By Dave Transou

SMASHWORDS EDITION

PUBLISHED BY:

Dave Transou on Smashwords

Dragon Heart

Copyright © 2015 By Dave Transou

All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book.

*****

Dragon Hunters and the DragonHawk Saga are all works of fiction.

The characters, events, and locations described in these books are all figments of my own overactive imagination.

*****

Smashwords Edition License Note

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

*****

To Big Boy and Baby Girl

I manage to write my stories despite their insistence in stepping on the keyboard, walking back and forth across my desk, sleeping on the mouse, and sneezing on the screens. Theirs is a love story that rivals Elias’ and Annie’s.

Perhaps I’ll write about them some day.

*****

Dragon Heart

*****

The DragonHawk Saga

Ten thousand seasons have passed since the DragonHawk Wars and the collapse of the Star Empire. DragonHawks and Dragon Hunters have faded into obscurity. The Star Trader Galaxy is a shadow of the old Star Empire and its inhabitants, the Star Traders, a far cry from their Star Folk ancestors.

The Royal Republics War continues to slowly grind, as neither side can gain an advantage over the other. The once magnificent cities of the InWorlds lay in ruin, what’s left of their populations growing more and more desperate as an uneasy stalemate settles over the combatants. The black markets are flourishing, as smugglers fight among themselves for the best routes and markets.

In the aftermath of the Battle of Conborine, the Frontier Council is struggling to respond to what some called a surprise attack by the StarHawke Tycho’s Hawkkur Legion. Meanwhile, work on the repair facility has ground to a halt as the bruised and battered Star Traders from T&B Spaceyards anxiously await a desperately needed relief mission from Gaanard.

The Trade continues to struggle with a coherent trading policy towards the InWorlds and the OutWorlds. Trading with the Royal Republics has significantly decreased due to the war. Meanwhile, the Star Trader Council is divided on what to do about the StarHawke Tycho’s action on Conborine, as rumors about the battle run rife throughout the Trade.

Fresh from their victory over the Rahhol DragonHawk Nafiss Atou, the Tycho Star Traders are celebrating the growing romance between Lord Elias Hawkes and Lady Annie Tolen. Many seasons from now, Star Traders would tell their children the story about the evil Rahhol DragonHawk who sent his Dragon Hunters to kidnap a beautiful Drakkon Princess, knowing that the brave Drakkon Prince who loved her would not hesitate to come and rescue her.

Meanwhile, the Hawkkur Legion remains on a war footing, as Rahhol DragonHawks and Dragon Hunters come out of hiding to attack the Tycho Drakkon. Time grows short as they prepare for the Return of the Great Dragon, and the restoration of the Star Empire. The cost will be high, but all they can do is hope, that in the end, there will be peace among the Thousand Galaxies of the Known Universe.

*****

Chapter 1: The Tycho Trade Station

The battle cruisers Tycho Triumph and Tycho Victory raced through Transit Space, carrying Elias Hawkes and his Combat Team home to the Tycho Trade Station after their victory in what everyone was calling the Battle of Conborine. He could not help but be proud of all that they had accomplished on Conborine, although many, including his enemies, would categorize what he and his men had accomplished as brash and foolish. While those who really knew; those who understood what had really happened on Conborine, would know the battle for what it was. A sign that the Return of the Great Dragon was at hand.

Drakkon, Rahhol, and Dragon Hunters. All of the elements had been in place on Conborine where a Rahhol DragonHawk had come out of hiding to set a trap for the Drakkon. Many seasons from now, Star Traders would tell their children the story about the evil Rahhol DragonHawk who sent his Dragon Hunters to kidnap a beautiful Drakkon Princess, knowing that the brave Drakkon Prince who loved her would not hesitate to come and rescue her.

Procyon, his Dragon Within rumbled softly as Lord Elias Hawkes, the Drakkon Prince in this future bedtime story, glanced at his Drakkon Princess, Lady Annie Tolen, sitting beside him on the comfortable, circular couch in the Tycho Triumph’s Family Lounge, wondering if they truly would live happily ever after.

He glanced up at the dark and foreboding viewport. The Tycho Triumph was still in Transit Space, although it wouldn’t be too much longer before they reached the Transition Point…

*****

Lady Annie Tolen stared out of the curved viewport at the vast nothingness of Transit Space as Capella, her Dragon Within, rumbled softly. The absence of movement or light outside of the curved viewport did nothing to ease her jangled nerves as they sped towards the Tycho Trade Station. According to seasoned spacers, it was a sensation that you never really got used to.

She wouldn’t know about that. This was only her second trip through Transit Space. Her first trip took her from her home on Gaanard, to the T&B project on Conborine. Now, in the aftermath of what the newsnets were calling the Battle of Conborine, she was on her way to the Tycho Trade Station and her destiny with the Tycho Drakkon.

Growing up, her mother told her the stories of the Star Empire, their legendary Drakkon leaders, and their fiercely loyal Hawkkur Legion. As a little girl, she would often pretend she was a Drakkon Princess, holding court in the Grand Palace on Central, or leading her mighty Hawkkur Warriors into battle against the Rahhol. As she grew older, her childhood fantasies became real, as she learned to control her Dragon Magic and her Dragon Within, Capella. Then she met the Prince of the Tycho Drakkon at the Conborine reception and her universe changed forever.

Gaanard seems so long ago! Annie mused, reflecting on that magical night when the StarHawke Tycho and his family attended the T&B reception. She was immediately attracted to Elias, who seemed to be attracted to her. Meanwhile their little game of now you see me, now you don’t in the crowded reception attracted the attention of his mother, the formidable Lady Mani Hawkes.

The next day Lady Hawkes invited her to tea onboard the Tycho Pride, anxious to learn more about the young Drakkon Princess who had caught her son’s eye. Meanwhile, Annie felt honored to be in the presence of the powerful Queen of the Drakkon, who treated the scared, young Tolen Drakkon as an equal.

Her excitement turned to fear when a Dragon Hunter exploded a bomb in an attempt to kill the StarHawke Tycho and his Hawkkurs. The attack occurred at the Diplomatic Dock, the very place she had departed for the Tycho Pride less than one standard hour earlier. In the aftermath of the attack, the StarHawke Tycho insisted she remain onboard the Tycho Pride until he determined it was safe for her to return to the Tolen Family and Gaanard.

And then there was Elias.

Despite the growing tension between the Tycho Star Traders and the residents of Gaanard, Annie was thrilled for the opportunity to spend some wonderful time alone with Elias Hawkes. They dined each evening with his parents, then took long, romantic walks through the massive starship to some out-of-the-way lounge or observation deck, where they would find a late tea or dessert arranged by their clever aides. She glanced down at her dress, a beautiful, long, light gray dress with a full skirt, trimmed in Hawkkur green satin and lace. It was a traditional traveling dress, a style that dated back to the Star Empire, a present from Lady Hawkes the night she had left the Tycho Pride to return to her Tolen Family on Gaanard. A family she no was sure she was a part of…

On Conborine she had witnessed the fierce power and the fanaticism of the Hawkkur Legion first hand when Elias and his Hawkkurs rescued her from the Reska Dragon Hunters. A few days later, Elias led his Hawkkur Combat Team into battle against a Rahhol DragonHawk and his mercenary army. For the first time since the fall of the Star Empire, Drakkon and Rahhol met on the battlefield in individual combat. Elias slayed Nafiss Atou, routing his forces, and capturing the remnants of the Reska Dragon Hunters that had kidnapped her.

Capella rumbled mournfully, as Annie thought about the thirty seven Hawkkur Warriors who had lost their lives during the Battle of Conborine. Their bodies now lay in a place of honor in the starship’s Main Docking Bay. An honor guard of their fellow Hawkkurs stood watch over their brother warriors and would do so until they were laid to rest at the Tycho Trade Station. Meanwhile, the medical departments of both battle cruisers were caring for over a hundred more Hawkkurs who were wounded during the fierce fighting.

She glanced at Elias, who was calmly reviewing something on his scancomm. He looked very handsome in his green Hawkkur uniform, despite the look of concern that was evident on his face. After the suicide Dragon Hunter attack at the Diplomatic Dock, he had wanted her to accompany his family to the Tycho Trade Station. He had been quite adamant, demanding, even pleading, that she come to Tycho, where she would be safe while she learned how to better use her Dragon Magic.

Annie readily admitted that she was not as powerful as the Tycho Drakkon. Nonetheless she insisted on returning to the Tolen Star Traders and her job in the T&B Spaceyards. Her uncle was depending on her to set up their new offices on Conborine. She did not want to let them down.

She could not help but scowl as she thought about how well that had worked out.

Are you alright, Annie? Elias asked as he reached over to take her hand in his.

She turned her head and smiled, grateful for his attention. He had been wounded in his fight with the Black Dragon, he and Procyon’s Dragon Magic had been dangerously depleted. Annie and Capella had shared their Dragon Magic with them, pushing the tainted remnants of the Black Dragon back through The Portal to Dragon World, while bonding the two Drakkon and their Dragons Within in the process.

Bonded... Already she could feel her connection to Elias growing stronger. I wonder what Makala and Mani will have to say about that...

I was just reminiscing. She told him with a smile, not wanting to dampen his triumphant return home.

Conborine is behind us, Annie. He gently said, sensing her uneasiness through their bond. Nafiss Atou is dead, the Reska Dragon Hunters are dead, or in my brig, and his mercenaries have scattered.

He switched off his scancomm and turned to face her, as their Dragons Within rumbled gently.

We gathered a lot of valuable intelligence on Conborine. Elias said. I’m convinced that Atou was working with another, more powerful Rahhol DragonHawk. We have evidence that it was he who turned the suicide bomber who tried to blow up the Diplomatic Dock.

Turned? She asked, confused by the term.

Elias nodded. Mother prefers the term ‘turned’ as opposed to ‘created’. She believes that a human, whether they are a Star Trader or a Non Trader, cannot be turned into a Dragon Hunter unless there is some inherit Dragon Magic present within them, no matter how small it may be.

Elias smiled. I’m sure you’ll hear more about it from her.

Annie wanly smiled, stifling a sigh, realizing there was so much more about being Drakkon than she had ever imagined.

There are things going on around us which the average Star Trader is totally unaware. Elias carefully explained while Procyon rumbled guardedly. There are more DragonHawks and Dragon Hunters among the Families than anyone ever imagined. The Families are filled with people who have DragonHawk or Dragon Hunter traits that they are either don’t understand or are unaware of. Beyond the Trade, we believe we will find DragonHawks and Dragon Hunters scattered among the Non Traders, throughout the Star Trader Galaxy.

I’ve shared all of our intelligence with Colonel Hyll and the Gaanard Troop. Elias said. They’ll be looking into Atou’s movements whenever he visited Gaanard. Maybe we’ll be able to find our missing Rahhol and his Dragon Hunters by following his back trail. But if this is indeed the Return of the Great Dragon, we won’t have to worry about them, they’ll come to us!

The Time of the Great Dragon is coming! Her Dragon Within rumbled. As witnessed by the thirty seven Hawkkur Warriors who gave their lives on Conborine!

Annie closed her eyes and took a deep breath, clearing her mind.

All I can do is trust that the Great Dragon will prevail!

The Transition Alarm sounded, a warbling alarm that drew their attention back to the large viewport.

About time. Elias grumbled.

Annie laughed, sliding closer to him on the small couch, leaning over to kiss him on the cheek.

I am so excited, Elias!’ She said. I can’t wait to see your parents and your home!" Elias laughed.

I can’t wait for you to see it, Annie! He replied with a grin as a shudder passed down the length of the Tycho Triumph’s hull. They watched as the endless black of Transit Space was suddenly displaced by the star-filled vista of Normal Space as the starship completed transition. As the scene stabilized, they saw a large mass of starfighters racing towards them.

Elias… Annie started as Capella rumbled cautiously.

Elias laughed.

Tycho Hawk starfighters from Alpha Base. He said with a grin as his scancomm buzzed. Holding the screen so she could see, he keyed the display, the image of the Tycho Triumph’s Commander appeared.

Yes Commander Verney? Elias said with a smile.

Lord Hawkes. He began. And Lady Tolen. He added with a smile and a nod. "The Tycho Triumph and the Tycho Victory have completed Transition into the Tycho System. We are approximately sixty standard minutes from docking at the Tycho Trade Station. All conditions are normal on both starships."

Just normal, Commander? Elias asked with a smile.

Yes, my Lord. The Commander said with a contented grin. Although everyone is anxious to be home.

We have all earned some time off, Commander. Elias said, with a wink at Annie. I noticed some activity off our bow.

"Yes, sire. Two squadrons of Tycho Hawk starfighters from Alpha Base."

I suppose our own fighters are getting a bit antsy?

Commander Verney laughed. My Lord knows the routine. The Ready Rooms have been calling…

Elias laughed.

Go ahead and launch the fighters, Commander. Elias said.Tell them I said to make us proud.

Aye Milord! Commander Verney replied with a grin, as Elias turned off his scancomm.

Elias, I don’t understand… Annie said, confused by the conversation.

Bit of a standing ritual. Elias pointed to the viewport and chuckled. The fighters from Alpha Base have challenged our fighters to join them as part of our escort. They will parade around the Trade Station during our arrival. My father will observe their passes and select one squadron out of the six as the best formation. That squadron will win bragging rights over the other squadrons.

He grinned at the confusion on her face.

Perhaps we’ll attend one of the squadron dinners. He said. It’s a very formal affair, full of ceremony, toasts, and tradition. He paused. Of course, if we attend one, then we’ll probably have to attend them all…

Six formal dinners? Annie asked, feeling a bit overwhelmed. Six formal gowns… She smiled. I hope you are up to some shopping…

Elias laughed, glancing back at Corporal Jeanne-Cerise Daladier, Annie’s personal aide, standing quietly at the lounge’s entrance.

Don’t worry. He said. I’m sure the Family Guard will come up with something appropriate. Don’t you agree Corporal Daladier?

Drakkon! Corporal Daladier loudly replied, popping to attention as the two DragonHawks laughed, returning their attention to the viewport.

*****

The space around the Tycho Trade Station rivaled Gaanard on its busiest of days. Starships and spacecraft of all shapes and sizes filled the crowded parking orbits and the busy approach and departure lanes. The battle cruisers Tycho Triumph and Tycho Victory were in a line, with the Tycho Triumph in the lead. Ahead of the two battle cruisers, two squadrons of Tycho Hawk starfighters from Tycho Base Alpha led the procession through the crowded space, while the starfighters from the task force formed columns on their flanks. Trailing in the wake of the battle cruisers were personal craft and shuttles of all shapes and sizes, come out to greet the returning heros.

Is it always this crowded? Annie asked as her Dragon Within rumbled nervously.

Elais laughed.

Sometimes. He explained, as he paused and glanced down, deep in thought before returning his attention to Annie. But there’s a lot of excitement over our mission to Conborine and our battle with the Rahhol DragonHawk.

They all know, don’t they? Annie asked, nodding her head towards the Tycho Trade Station. They all know that you and your parents are DragonHawks?

Yes. He said with a careful smile, as Procyon rumbled. They know we are DragonHawks.

You are not going to tell her? Procyon rumbled uneasily.

Elias glanced at Annie, who was enraptured with the view. There was so much she did not understand… So much that she needed to learn…

No, not yet Procyon. Elias said, watching the woman with whom he was falling in love. She has too much on her mind right now. And I don’t want to interfere with anything Mother may have planned.

We’re coming up on the forward side of the trade station. He said, pointing to the curved transparisteel wall directly ahead. "This side is the Family Quarters, where most of our people live.

Our apartments are on the upper levels, just above the Entertainment District. He pointed to a bright swath of light across the middle of the forward face. It’s not as big or fancy as Gaanard, but there are some really nice places. He grinned at her as Procyon rumbled. I can’t wait for you to see it.

Oh, Elias! Annie sighed, as Capella rumbled contentedly. She glanced at Corporal Daladier standing by the entrance to the lounge, who smiled and stepped into the orderly room adjacent to the lounge. Annie returned her attention to Elias, sliding over next to him. He looked down at her and smiled, placing his arm around her as she leaned contentedly against him. She looked up, as their eyes met. Capella growled, a low sultry growl, as Procyon growled in response. Elias leaned over as Annie closed her eyes. Their lips met…

*****

The Tycho Triumph and the Tycho Victory slowly circled the huge, glittering trade station, acompanied by an entourage of starfighters and space craft that had steadily grown since their arrival at the Transition Point. Annie stared out of the viewport. The huge battle cruisers were dwarfed by the massive Tycho Trade Station, which was much larger than she had ever suspected. And much more heavily armed.

Dense clusters of weapons emplacements were arrayed along its armored surfaces, above and below the busy belt of docking stations that ringed the massive centerline. Various mid-class starships were moored at almost every docking station on the exterior, their own viewports filled with spacers watching the procession and waving at the warships. Above the docking stations, every viewport they passed was filled with people watching and waving at the battle cruisers and their escorts. As they slowly sailed past the second of two huge openings, Annie could see the expansive deck inside the vast interior of the Tycho Trade Station's Main Landing Bay.

Where are we going? Annie asked. Are we going to circle the entire trade station?

We're going to move down orbit and then turn about and enter the Main Landing Bay through the Stern Gate. Elias explained. Annie's eyes grew wide with disbelief. It’s a bit larger than the side doors.

This battle cruiser can fit inside the landing bay? She asked unbelievingly. Elias grinned.

Both battle cruisers will fit inside the Main Landing Bay. He replied. And there would still be room for several freighters. But I imagine the landing bay has been emptied for our return.

Father wanted to give our people the opportunity to celebrate our victory at Conborine. Elias explained. The newsnets have been so negative for so long… Elias grinned at Annie. And of course, everyone here is excited about you coming to visit…

Elias paused, glancing down self-consciously.

They see you and I together… He started, searching for the right words as Procyon rumbled awkwardly. And they think… they hope... they see the future of the Tycho Star Traders.

Capella responded to Procyon’s rumble with a growl of her own, as Annie blushed furiously at his implications.

They had grown steadily closer since that fateful night of the T&B reception when she had first met Elias. Since then, her fate seemed to be racing down a predetermined path, controlled by the visions that haunted her mind. While she remained determined to control her own fate, her own destiny, she knew she could not stop the Return of the Great Dragon.

At the same time, she could not help but feel her love for Elias Hawkes growing steadily. She was pretty sure he was falling in love with her in his own, sometimes aggravating, sometimes romantic, always cute in an awkward sort of way. Had he seen visions of his own? Or was he just driven by his powerful sense of purpose and duty as the son of the StarHawke Tycho?

Then there was the bonding…

Does he know his son will be the Great Dragon? She wondered.

Your son! Capella reminded her, causing her to blush. And your daughters!

Her vision was clear in her mind, the baby boy in her arms, her young daughters sitting on the bed, Elias standing by her side...

And then there was the Hawkkur Legion, and its fanatically loyal troops. The Family Guard, the Gaanard Troop, and the Combat Teams. The brave and loyal troops of the StarHawke Tycho who had fiercely thrown themselves into the battle on Conborine to rescue her from the Reska Dragon Hunters. And to rescue a city from the clutches of their sworn enemy, a Rahhol DragonHawk. They did these things willingly because they were driven by their duty as Hawkkur Warriors. For the honor of the Hawkkurs who had served and died before them. And for the generations of Hawkkurs yet to take their place in the ranks.

Duty.

Honor.

Glory.

It permeated everyone and everything around her. Coupled with Fate, it pushed them all inexplicably towards the ultimate destiny of the Tycho Star Traders and the Hawkkur Legion:

The Return of the Great Dragon.

Capella proudly growled. And was proudly answered by Procyon, as Annie fully embraced the Tycho Star Traders and their Hawkkur Warriors. She took Elias’ hands in her’s and looked up into his eyes.

And what about you Elias? What do you see?

I see a beautiful woman with whom I am falling in love. He quietly replied as he pulled her to him, and gently kissed her lips.

Annie felt herself melting in his arms as he held her tightly against him.

Time seemed to stand still as they stood before the massive viewport, the parade of starships seemingly forgotten, as their Dragons Within growled in unison and they became lost in the passion of their kiss. Slowly their surroundings came into focus as their lips parted.

Elias stared into her eyes. They could both feel the Dragon Magic crackling and swirling around them as the Dragon Bond grew stronger.

I love you, Annie Tolen. Elias Hawkes declared as Procyon roared.

Oh, Elias. Annie replied, laying her head against his chest as Capella’s roar joined with Procyon’s. I love you too!

*****

Corporal Daladier quietly slipped out of the Orderly Room into the Family Lounge. Almost immediately, she was struck by the powerful Dragon Magic filling the room. Struggling not to panic, she sought out her Lady DragonHawk, her eyes growing wide when she saw Lady Tolen and Lord Hawkes standing before the viewport in a passionate embrace . Desperately, she turned away, hoping to return to the Orderly Room before she was discovered. But the Dragon Magic was too strong. With a strangled cry, she dropped to her knees, determined not to interrupt the Revered Ones.

Capella growled a warning. Annie opened her eyes in time to see her aide falling to the floor, struggling against the combined Dragon Magic of the two DragonHawks, as it swirled around the room.

Capella! Help her immediately! Annie ordered her Dragon Within. Capella and Procyon rumbled in response, the Dragon Magic quickly disappating from the room.

Elias, we have company. She quietly said, as she let go of his embrace and hurried over to her aide.

Jeanne, dear. Annie said, as she bent down to help the young corporal to her feet. "Are you okay?’

Corporal Daladier was blushing furiously, her eyes filled with tears as Annie helped her to her feet.

Oh, my Lady, please forgive me! She begged as Elias came to Annie’s side. I did not mean to intrude, Lord Hawkes!

Elias chuckled as he realized what the young corporal had seen – and felt – in the room filled with Dragon Magic.

It’s all right, Corporal Daladier. Elias replied with a smile. He glanced at Annie and winked, taking her hand in his. Everything is fine and you did nothing wrong.

I… I came to tell you, Lord Hawkes. She stuttered. And Lady Tolen. Captain Blom-Weisser reports that the honor guard is standing by to escort you and Lady Tolen to the forward hatch.

Elias looked out of the viewport. The Tycho Triumph had made the turn and was lining up on the Stern Gate, which loomed large before them. Egads were we distracted that long?

Very well, Corporal. Elias replied, struggling not to laugh as he looked at Annie. Do you want to freshen up before we go?

Annie could sense the struggle Elias was having, but she was proud of him for the way he had treated her aide. Poor girl must have panicked when she got caught in the Dragon Magic!

Please. Annie brightly replied with a smile. Just give me a moment.

Elias bowed and made a sweeping motion with his arm.

Take all the time you need my Lady. He gallantly said.

As you wish, my Lord. Annie playfully replied with a curstey. Come along Jeanne. Annie turned and started across the lounge towards the refresher station.

As you command, my Lady. Corporal Daladier primly replied, struggling to not break into a fit of giggles at the playful manner of the Drakkon as she followed her Lady.

Elias smiled, turning to watch as the nose of the Tycho Triumph eased through the Stern Gate, the massive battle cruiser slowly entering the Main Landing Bay. He could not believe that he had told her that he loved her. And then she had told him that she loved him as well!

Procyon growled, as Elias thought about the future. They would enjoy their time together, seeing the sights and getting to know each other. But her visit would not, could not, be all fun and games. Annie needed training in the Ways of the Dragon. She had plenty of power and a willing Dragon Within, as his mother had pointed out after that disaster of a dinner when they had argued. But she needed to learn how to use and control the power of her Dragon Within. So his mother and the Family Guard would train Annie as much as they could. As much as she could handle. After that, he would just have wait and see how their relationship developed.

And then there was the Star Trader Council and the Major Families. How would they react to what had happened on Conborine? What would happen when the StarHawke Tycho turned the Reska Dragon Hunters over to the Star Trader Council? What would the Reska do? Meanwhile, there was a Rahhol DragonHawk somewhere on Gaanard, who appeared to have a well-developed network of Dragon Hunters and resources.

You have always known that the Return of the Great Dragon would not be easy! Procyon reminded him with a rumble.

Elias did not reply, knowing his Dragon Within was right. Yet, despite the dark days that lay ahead for the Tycho Drakkon, he could not help but believe that he and Annie would have a bright, exciting future together.

*****

Chapter 2: Council Hall

The Tycho Triumph and the Tycho Victory sat on their sturdy landing pads, side by side in the middle of the Main Landing Bay, their blunt noses pointing towards the curved, transparisteel wall that formed the forward end of the cavernous bay. Two large docking tubes extended across the deck, mating with the large forward hatch of each battle cruiser. Docking Technicians ran up and down the length of each tube, inspecting their integrity and their seals against the huge starships’ forward hatches. Satisfied that the docking tubes were properly connected, the Docking Supervisor gave a signal, sending his technicians hurrying to their stations, as the forward hatches of both starships slowly opened.

A trooper in the livery of the Hawkkur Legion Family Guard led the procession from the Tycho Triumph, carrying a standard bearing the Hawk and Star of the StarHawke Tycho. Lord Hawkes and Lady Tolen exited the starship next, three paces behind the standard bearer. They were followed by the Family Guard aides, Sergeant Luc, and Corporal Daladier. They walked ramrod straight, eyes straight ahead, filled with determination and pride.

Although he had been wounded in the fighting on Conborine, Sergeant Luc insisted he was fit enough to participate in the ceremonies. Elias had been dubious, but Annie, seeing the determination in the young sergeant’s eyes, had promptly stepped in, using her Dragon Magic to speed the healing of his wounds. Much to the consternation of Captain Blom-Weisser, and the immense surprise of both Sergeant Luc and Corporal Daladier. And Elias, as well.

Three paces behind their aides, Captain Blom-Weisser led Alpha Company of the Family Guard, which had accompanied Lord Hawkes to Conborine. As the Family Guard cleared the hatch, two columns of Hawkkur Warriors in full battle gear escorted thirty seven hover carts bearing the metal caskets of the troopers who had lost their lives during the fighting on Conborine. At the foot of each casket sat the trooper’s battle gear, neatly arranged, helmet sitting on top of the armored chest plate, ready for the warrior’s use.

After the honor guard cleared the hatch of the Tycho Triumph, Commander Lorcan led the troops of Combat Team Four down the ramp. Simultaneously, the Combat Team’s Executive Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Malachi Talib, led the rest of Combat Team Four down the ramp of the Tycho Victory. As the Combat Team cleared the ramps, they were followed by delegations from the crews of the two starships, led by Commander Verny and Commander Savage. Lastly Gunnery Sergeant Morcan Tenn led the ExoArmor troops down the ramp, the thud of their metallic feet on the deck and the whine of their hydraulics the only sounds in the otherwise silent procession.

Annie’s heart was beating rapidly, her Dragon Within rumbling anxiously. as she walked beside Elias, her left arm resting on his right. He had explained the processional and the ceremony to her, but she was nervous nonetheless, determined to make a good first impression on the families of the Tycho Star Traders. They reached the end of the docking tunnel and stepped into a vast hall, a staging area for the Legion that was being used for the arrival ceremony. A cheer went up from the assembled crowds as they stepped into view. Elias waved at the people as he led Annie towards the podium at the far end of the hall where she could see the StarHawke Tycho and Lady Mani Hawkes standing. Beside him he could feel Annie tensing up.

Relax. He whispered, leaning his head over to hers. Just smile and wave at the people. He encouraged her. You’re doing fine!

Annie shot him a grateful smile before turning to wave at the mass of assembled people. The crowd reacted immediately with a huge roar, catching Annie and Capella by surprise.

See? Elias whispered to her. They already love you!

Annie laughed, smiling at Makala and Mani as they reached the platform. Elias took her hand and helped her up the steps, where Mani Hawkes grabbed her in a hug that set the massive crowd to cheering again.

I am so relieved you are finally here, safe and sound! Mani said, as the Family Guard and the Combat Team marched into the room, forming up into ranks before them.

You can thank your brave, smart, handsome son for that. Annie said, glancing at Elias with a smile as she received a hug from Makala. And of course, the Family Guard and Combat Team Four.

Welcome home Son. Makala said as he embraced Elias. Well done to you and your team!

Thank you Father. Elias replied. Combat Team Four and the Family Guard performed flawlessly.

That’s good to hear, Son. Makala replied. That’s good to hear. He turned his attention Annie. It’s good to finally have you here at the Tycho Trade Station, my dear! He said to her.

Thank you, Makala, for sending Elias and his Hawkkurs to rescue me. Annie said, stepping over to give him a hug, which brought another roar from the crowd. I will always owe a debt of gratitude to those troopers who gave their lives on Conborine.

As it has always been. Makala somberly said, with a nod of his head towards the troops that were still marching into the room. Which is why we are gathered here today.

Annie turned to watch the Hawkkur Warriors marching into the staging area, noting that the massive space was almost full.

Annie. Mani gestured to her. Come stand beside me.

Yes, ma’am. Annie replied, taking her place beside Lady Hawkes, while Elias stood beside his father.

Legion! Attention!

A hush settled over the room as the Hawkkur Legion Command Sergeant Major called the troops to attention. From the back of the room, a voice called out a command as a color guard, bearing the standards of the Hawkkur Legion began to slowly move forward.

Annie could tell there were others following behind the color guard, but she could not see who they were. She caught her breath, her Dragon Within growling mournfully, as the color guard reached the front of the room, coming to a halt just below the platform. As the color guard pivoted to face the assembled troops, the line of hover platforms bearing the bodies of the thirty seven fallen Hawkkur Warriors came into view. When all thirty seven hovercarts were in position, the Command Sergeant Major barked another command.

A side door opened and a group of Tycho Star Traders, mostly women and children, slowly walked into the room.

The families of the troopers killed on Conborine! Annie realized as Capella rumbled mournfully. Her eyes filled with tears, as she watched the families walk along the line of hover carts, turning as they reached their trooper to stand alongside the hovercarts. As the last family reached their trooper, Makala and Mani stepped forward. Offering Mani his arm, the StarHawke Tycho and his mate walked down the steps of the platform. Elias turned at Annie and smiled, extending his arm, which she took with a short smile, as they followed his parents onto the floor of the massive cargo staging area.

The StarHawke Tycho and Lady Hawkes walked to the end of the row, stopping as they reached the first hover cart bearing the remains of a fallen Hawkkur Warrior. The StarHawke Tycho bowed to honor the warrior and his family while the Lady Hawkes performed a deep curtsey. They turned and stepped over to the next warrior and repeated the honor.

Oh! Annie fretted, her Dragon Within rumbling uneasily as she and Elias reached the first warrior. She cleared her mind and called to her Dragon Magic to steady her nerves.

Elias glanced at her, sensing her nervousness as he guided her into their turn, hoping that she would be able to do her part of this ceremony. Procyon rumbled encouragingly as he bowed, seeing Annie perform a flawless curtsey beside him. He relaxed, concentrating on the ceremony as they rose in unison and continued on to the next fallen warrior.

Annie relaxed, realizing she had been holding her breath as she allowed Elias to lead her to the next warrior. He glanced in her direction, concern showing on his face. But she gave him a quick smile and discretely squeezed his arm.

Slowly they made their way along the row of fallen troopers. Annie caught her breath as they turned to honor one warrior, glancing at the young widow with three small children, two girls and one boy, standing beside her fallen Hawkkur. Her Dragon Within rumbled mournfully, as Annie felt tears forming at the corners of her eyes as she curtseyed.

Suddenly, the woman’s youngest daughter broke free from her sister’s hand, running to Annie, burying her face in her dress as she cried. The room was silent except for the girl’s sobs, as Annie bent and gently picked up the little girl, embracing her in a hug.

Oh, I’m so sorry! Annie told the little girl, tears streaming down her own face, as the little girl wrapped her arms around her neck. Elias turned towards her, but she shook her head. He nodded, motioning to their aides to stop, as they rushed forward to help.

What’s your name? Annie asked, holding the little girl so that she could see her face. She was a beautiful little girl, with curly blonde hair.

Safi. The little girl said. And your name is Annie!

That’s right! Annie smiled, glancing at Elias, as she looked around the room.

Well Safi, I am sorry that your daddy died. He was a very brave warrior. Safi sadly nodded her head.

Come on. Annie said, as she started walking over towards the girl’s mother. Let’s go see your mother. She’s worried about you.

Ignoring the surprised crowd, Annie walked over to the young mother who had a worried look on her face, as she approached.

Oh, my Lady! The young mother gasped, nervously curtseying, as Annie approached. I am so sorry!

No, I am the one who is sorry, Mistress…?

Sari Tycho, Milady. She said, taking Safi out of her arms. This my eldest daughter Stephie, and my son Steban. The daughter performed a perfect curtsey, while the little boy bowed stiffly.

It is very nice to meet you and your family, Sari. Annie said, as Capella rumbled softly. Could I come visit you sometime? After I get settled? Sari Tycho’s eyes grew wide.

It’s not necessary, Milady. She stammered.

Please. Annie said. I’d like to get to know you and your family better.

If you insist, Milady. She managed a weak smile. Annie smiled back.

I should return to Lord Hawkes. Annie said. Until then?

The young widow nodded, uncertain what to say.

Capella rumbled as Annie turned, all eyes in the vast room on her, as she regally rejoined Elias. She glanced at Makala and Mani, noting the proud looks on their faces, as she took her place alongside Elias.

Are you okay? He asked. She nodded, afraid to speak as she regained her composure. He looked up and nodded to his father.

Makala and Mani resumed their slow walk down the line of coffins, Elias and Annie following. It took all of her self control, but Annie was able to do her part in the ceremony, her eyes streaked with tears, as she honored the families of the thirty seven troopers who had given their lives in the Battle of Conborine.

Elias could sense her grief and sadness, as he somberly led Annie through the rest of the honors joining his parents at the last cart. He guided Annie to a position behind his parents, as Makala released Mani’s arm and took a step towards the assembled warriors. Suddenly her aide was at her side, handing her a cloth and a small bottle of water.

Are you alright, Milady? Corporal Daladier asked.

Yes, thank you, Jeanne. Annie gratefully replied as she dabbed at her eyes before sipping the water. I’ll be fine now.

Corporal Daladier nodded solemnly, stepping back into her place, as the StarHawke Tycho spoke.

We will now escort our fallen brothers and sisters to Council Hall! He declared, stepping back to take his place by Mani. She took his arm, as they led the procession towards a large door which had been opened on one side of the staging area. Elias glanced at Annie, who smiled weakly, holding on to him with her left arm, as she held her skirt with her right.

Are you sure you are okay? He asked, his voice filled with concern, as Procyon rumbled. Annie squeezed his forearm, her Dragon Within rumbling in return, as she smiled wanly at Elias.

Just nervous. Annie said. Where are we going?

Council Hall. Elias said with strange smile, as Procyon rumbled.

Somehow troubled by his answer, there was nothing that she could do but to trust him. She glanced back to see the Family Guard and the honor guard bearing the bodies of the fallen warriors following them, followed by the rest of the detail and the people from the arrival ceremony.

The StarHawke Tycho and Lady Mani Hawkes led the procession out of the huge hall into a wide, brightly lit passage, lined on both sides by Hawkkur Warriors. The troopers, dressed in their dress uniforms, including gleaming body armor and battle rifles, stood at parade rest. As the procession passed their position, they snapped to attention and raised their battle rifles in salute. The procession moved silently through the trade station, down passageway after passageway, the only sounds being the movements of the troopers and the rythmic sound of their footsteps. The procession turned onto a large, wide ramp leading to the lower levels of the huge trade station. They followed the ramp down several levels, until the deck finally leveled out, ending in a dimly lit passageway in front of two, ancient-looking, massive doors. The doors looked to be metallic, possibly some type of steel, but they were not any type of steel or plasteel that Annie had ever seen.

No, these doors are made from something else! Something very old! She mused, her Dragon Within rumbling cautiously, as she stared at the massive doors. There was a thought in the back of her mind, something that said she should know this place, but she was tired and her senses were nearing overload. There was no way she was going to figure it out in her current state of mind.

She turned to Elias, suddenly aware of the tension filling the passageway. She looked at Makala and Mani, who were standing impassively before the massive portal, staring starkly at the battered surfaces. As the rest of the procession came to a halt behind them, an eerie silence settled over the formation, increasing the level of tension filling the passageway. Another shiver passed through her as Capella rumbled, her Dragon Within as troubled as her mistress by the strange surroundings. Determinedly, she closed her eyes and cleared her mind, pushing the panic rising within her down.

From somewhere behind her, Annie felt a tremor pass through her feet, as something heavy struck the deck. Before she could react. there was another tremor, followed by another, the rythmic sounds growing louder. The high-pitched whine of the ExoArmor troop’s hydraulics was suddenly audible over the rythmic pounding. She wanted to turn and look, but instead took her cue from Elias and his parents who were standing still and looking straight ahead. The heavy metal steps and the high-pitched whining grew louder, her Dragon Within growing more and more restless.

Be still Cappela! She ordered her Dragon Within. We know it is the ExoArmor Squad. We are perfectly safe here! Now behave!

Capella’s rumblings ceased, she felt her Dragon Within withdraw sullenly into her lair.

Poor dear! Annie thought. Capella had been through so much – they both had! And the tension-filled atmosphere here in the bowels of the Tycho Trade Station was almost unbearable.

The rumblings grew louder until suddenly the ExoArmor Squad marched past the formation on either side. Forming two ranks, with their backs to the massive doors, they knealt on one knee and bowed to the StarHawke Tycho and Lady Hawkes.

We are here to do thy bidding, Lord StarHawke! Gunnery Sergeant Tenn’s amplified voice echoing through the passageways.

We have come to Council Hall to place our fallen comrades with their brothers and sisters. The StarHawke Tycho loudly replied. Open the doors, so we may enter!

As you Command Lord StarHawke! Gunny Tenn’s amplied voice echoed up and down the long passageway, as he stood up and saluted the StarHawke Tycho, his right arm coming up into a horizontal position across his chest.

Squad! He ordered. Attention!

The ExoArmor troops stood up, snapping to attention as the sergeant barked the command.

About Face! Gunnery Sergeant Tenn barked, the ExoArmor warriors pivoting about to face the massive doors.

Squad! Forward March! He and his troops stepped forward, raising their arms as they came into contact with metal surface. With surprised gentleness and reverence, the ExoArmor warriors slowly pushed the heavy doors open. The air filled with the loud groan of metal on metal, as the massive doors slowly swung open. Annie peered forward but all she could see was dark, dimly lit shadows.

Are you okay? Elias whispered, his voice startling her in the pervading silence.

I think so. Annie replied in a whisper. Although I have a lot of questions… Elias chuckled.

I imagine you do. He said with a grin. Don’t worry. They’ll be answered soon.

Cappela rumbled, as Annie eyed Elias speculatively, schooling her features into the calm serene look she had used when she first met Captain Blom-Weisser at the Diplomatic Dock. He smiled at her, winking before turning and schooling his own features.

The doors reached their full open with a muffled boom that reverberated around them. The ExoArmor squad formed up in two columns before the procession. On Gunny Tenn’s command, the squad marched forward into the gloom, the bright lights on their ExoArmor snapping on, as they marched between the massive doors.

Elias glanced at Annie as they followed the Starhawke Tycho and Lady Hawkes into Council Hall.

The Lady Annie Tolen cleared her mind, calling to her Dragon Magic as she prepared herself for whatever she would find inside, as the procession resumed behind them.

The interior of the room was dimly lit, hiding its details in gloomy shadows. Nevertheless, Annie got the impression of a vast space that eerily echoed with the sound of their procession. The ExoArmor Squad led them directly across what appeared to be a stone floor, the bright lights on their armor illuminating the far wall. As they approached the wall, She could see that pieces of the wall had been removed in a number of places. When the ExoArmor Squad reached the far wall, they formed a single line, turning to face the approaching procession.

Easy girl. Annie assured her Dragon Within, Capella rumbling uneasily as the StarHawke Tycho and Lady Hawkes stopped, facing the wall. I think I understand what is happening.

We stop here. Elias said with a whisper, guiding Annie to a position alongside his parents. Behind them the honor guard bearing the coffins of the fallen troopers marched past, forming a line in front of the dark openings in the stone wall. The Family Guard came to a halt behind the StarHawke Tycho and his family, while the Combat Team broke up into companies, forming up on either side of the Family Guard. When everyone was finally in place, the company commanders called their troops to attention, their voices echoing in the vast hall.

The ExoArmor Squad extinguished the bright lights on their armor, plunging the room into the gloom. A moment later, every Hawkkur Warrior in the room turned on their helmet lights, pointing them straight up, illuminating the room in a dull glow. The ExoArmor squad, their armor illuminated by small clearance and indicator lights, knealt and gently lifted the coffins from the hover carts that had borne them to Council Hall.

As one, the armored troopers stood and turned to face the wall.