A Dragon Tamer's Fable: A Dragon Tamer's Fable, #1

By G.J. Shalla

A tale of dragons, those who tame them, and the one who will lead them all. 

 

After witnessing the brutal murder of his father by marauders, Sebastian Allor wishes for nothing more than a quiet, normal life. When he receives a dragon egg on his 16th birthday, he realizes his future might not be what he planned. In a world filled with dragons, Sebastian learns what it means to be a Tamer. An unshakable bond is formed, one that will change his life forever.

 

A Dragon Tamer's Fable, Volume 1 of 4.

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: G.J.Shalla
• Release date: May 5, 2022
• ISBN: 9781778164705

G.J. Shalla

Originally from a small town in southern Ontario, Gabe wrote the first version of A Dragon Tamer’s Fable at fifteen years old, just over a decade ago. Unfortunately, without a dragon of her own, she was left to wander fields and forests and dream of them instead. Currently residing on Prince Edward Island, Gabe has lived coast to coast across Canada. And since dragon Taming is a somewhat unattainable goal, she spends her time as a volunteer firefighter and involved community member instead. Otherwise, she is likened to a cave hermit, occasionally emerging to go on adventures with her husband Rupert, her Australian shepherd Rohan, and her sassy cat Terry. A Dragon Tamer’s Fable is also available as an immersive audiobook and podcast on all major listening platforms. Three additional volumes of Seb and Nocte’s adventures will follow this first novel.

Book preview

Prologue

The boy decided he definitely did not like the frigid winter air. His fingers prickled, and his whole body shivered. He turned his head to his father, who was kneeling down and baiting a snare. Dad?

The slender, golden haired man glanced up at his red-cheeked son. Their breath crystallised as it escaped their bodies. Yes, my boy?

"Can we please go home now?"

Not if you want supper. The bundled-up boy groaned and shuffled his feet. There was a loud snap from the snare trap. "And that is why you want to make sure you have a long enough rope," his father said, matter-of- factly, as he grasped his sore fingers. The boy giggled and his father stood, ruffling his son's hair with a smile. It was a crisp winter morning; the sun shot out of the flawless blue sky and bounced off of the pure white snow. The man, Spiri, and his friend Matthias were teaching the seven-year-old how to hunt, with baiting snares as one of their final lessons. Spiri was a renowned trapper by trade, and Matthias was the village blacksmith.

Are you ready to try setting one again, Seb? Spiri asked the brown-haired boy.

Sebastian was hesitant, the last time he tried to set one he failed miserably. I guess I should—

Seb’s father grabbed him suddenly, pulling him close. He followed his father’s alert gaze, his cheek brushing against his father’s coat. Matthias stood on the other side of the young boy, clutching a closed metal snare in his left hand. Snow crunched underfoot as a group of men approached the hunters. Seb didn’t like the look of them. They were menacing in their dark, heavy layers of clothing. Of the six men nearing them, one signalled for the others to stay back while he took a few more steps toward the hunters. The threatening man had eyes blacker than coal, and greasy shoulder length hair. Seb felt his father’s arms tighten their hold around him.  

Catch anything today? the strange man asked, his voice gravelly.

Nothing yet, I’m afraid. Spiri answered tensely.

That’s unfortunate. The insincere man shifted his gaze to Sebastian. That boy, is he yours?

The hairs on the back of Seb’s neck stood on end, tingling his skin. An uneasy feeling sank further into his gut. He tugged on his father’s sleeve.

Dad—

Easy now. Conquer your fears, Seb. Spiri loosened his hold and pushed his son firmly towards his friend. Matthias, take him. The blacksmith took the boy by the collar of his jacket and backed away slowly. The men standing behind their leader advanced, and he quickly motioned for them to halt. What do you want? Spiri narrowed his eyes, clenching his fists.

You know what we want. If you hand them over to us now, we’ll let you leave with your son, unharmed. The ringleader stood so he was nearly toe-to-toe with the trapper.

I won’t, and you’ll never find them. Spiri glared at the man defiantly. I’ve hidden them where you’ll never discover them.

His patience lost, the dark-cloaked man hauled Spiri by his jacket and summoned his followers. With a deep growl he threatened, Tell me, or your head will roll.

Spiri glanced over his shoulder. He met his son’s terrified eyes for a brief moment, then nodded to his friend. In one fell swoop Matthias grabbed Seb and threw him over his shoulder, racing back to their village through the snow. The gang of men rushed forward, but their leader barked, Leave them! We have higher priorities at the moment. He jerked Spiri’s jacket and murmured, Tell us, or we’ll torture them. He nodded over Spiri’s shoulder to the fleeing blacksmith and boy.

Spiri didn’t flinch. There’s no point. They don’t know anything. I’m the only one who has the information you need.

The menacing man threw Spiri to the ground and motioned for his followers to seize him. And you won’t tell us a thing, will you?

Never, Spiri growled and held the man’s gaze.

Suit yourself. The strange man drew his greatsword and one of the men holding Spiri shoved his head down.

Sebastian watched in terror over Matthias’s shoulder. In the quiet forest, sunlight caught the tempered steel of the man’s sword as he raised it over his head. Dad..., Seb whispered and clutched Matthias’s shoulder. With a blinding glint from the blade, Seb watched as it cut through the air, and his father’s neck. Dad! Seb cried as his father’s body hit the bloodied snow. Crimson liquid leached from his fathers body, staining the pure white snow beneath Spiri’s body. Sebastian tried to fight his way off of Matthias’s shoulder; kicking his stomach and pounding his back.

Seb, Seb stop! Matthias grunted, struggling to keep a hold of him.

Dad! Seb cried, choking on his tears. He watched in stunned horror as the man wiped off his blade and sheathed it before turning away. The group of darkly clad men left Spiri’s body in the soiled snow and walked back the way they came.

Why... Why was this happening?

Chapter One

Seb realised it and didn't like it. He wanted to play with the other village children instead. But he needed to get a job. This winter was making it too hard for him not to. His widowed mother worked as much as she possibly could as a seamstress; mending villager's frayed clothes. It wasn't enough. Seb covered his bright red ears. Their little wooden house was freezing; they had to move out of their old stone house after his father died.

Seb trudged out of the house, through the snow. The village was bustling and noisy. Other children, unlike him, were running through the streets screaming gleefully. Busy adults passed him by; the dull crunch of snow underfoot was mind-numbing. The boy slid the large wooden door of the forge aside and was hit by a wall of warmth. The fiery glow of embers and molten steel made his skin prickle and thaw.

Seb walked carefully over to the labouring blacksmith, attempting to avoid anything that might burn him. Matthias! Sebastian shouted over the pounding of steel.

Matthias looked over his shoulder and grinned. Is that you, Sebastian?

Yep!

What can I help you with, my boy? The smith stepped away from the orange glow of the fiery pit.

Well, I need a job.

Matthias chuckled at the boy’s straightforwardness. How old're you, Seb?

Eight and a half. Seb held his head high and set his shoulders back.

Amusement twinkled in Matthias's eyes. Eight and a half, eh? Here, hold this. Matthias handed Sebastian an iron sledgehammer.

Oof! Seb went down like a rock.

Come back when you're a bit older, lad. We'll see about a job then.

Oh. Ok. Sebastian shuffled his feet. "But I kind of need a job now."

The smith exhaled deeply and scratched his short black hair. It had been a little more than a year since his closest friend’s passing, and he knew things weren’t easy for Seb and his mother.

Here’s what we’ll do. Matthias folded his thick arms across his chest. I’ll have you run errands for me and help out here and there around the forge, and once you’re a bit older we’ll see about you apprenticing. It was the least he could do for his friend’s only child.

Really? I won’t let you down, Uncle Matthias! Seb smiled with an air of determination.

And here—the smith rummaged through the back pocket of his pants and pulled out several silver coins—your first errand. Run and grab two loaves of bread, one for me and one for your mum.

Okay! Sebastian accepted the coins and dashed through the building, eager to please his new boss.

No running in the forge! Matthias called after him, worry creasing his brow.

As the brown-haired boy ran through the town of DeepCreek, he kept his head high. He noticed two or three of his friends with their parents, and the smiles on their faces. Their town was small and quiet, and it was rare that anything exciting happened there. As one of the country’s most southern towns, it wasn’t used as a trading hub, nor was it a busy spot for travellers. The people of DeepCreek were artisans and specialists, taking their wares to trading towns and ports.

Seb’s strides faltered as he caught a glimpse of her.

Fauna.

Her auburn hair fell to the mid of her back, straight and shining in the sunlight. Up close, her eyes were a smoky grey, with a wisdom reflected in them far beyond her years. She was one of Sebastian’s closest friends, even if she was a girl. They’d been friends for as long as he could remember, but lately his other friends had been teasing them. At some point Seb may have let it slip to his friends that he had a crush on her. But who wouldn’t? Friendly, pretty, smart, and there were also the sun-kissed freckles over the bridge of her nose to be considered.

Sebastian caught her eye and Fauna waved from across the street with a cheerful smile. He waved back, feeling his little chest pound. Fauna’s father noticed him and frowned, guiding her into the nearby butcher shop. Seb scarcely had the time to acknowledge the twinge in his chest, because the scent of freshly baked bread quickly distracted him. He pulled open the windowed door and ran up to the counter eagerly.

Well hello, Seb! We haven’t seen you in here for a while! The baker said while removing a fresh pan of bread from the stone oven.

Um, no. Seb felt heat rise to his cheeks. I’ve been pretty busy.

Have you now? The baker grinned to his wife as she packaged cooled loaves.

May I have two loaves of bread please? Seb placed two silver coins on the wooden counter.

You bet, buddy! The jovial man slipped fresh loaves into brown paper bags. Anything else for you?

Brightly coloured sugar cookies had caught the boy’s eye on the way in. He pondered thoughtfully, and chose a tulip shaped cookie. He rummaged through his pocket for his allowance money— just a few bronze coins.

Here, I’ll give you exact change for that. He handed over the coins and the baker grinned again.

You’re a good kid, Seb. My twelve-year-old isn’t as mature as you!

His wife laughed and Seb wondered why being mature made him a ‘good kid’. After all, he was simply being himself.

Do you want the cookie in a bag, sweetheart? The baker’s wife asked kindly.

No, thank you! Seb took the loaves of bread and the flower-shaped treat, and ran out of the store.

Just across the way, Fauna slipped out of the butcher shop. Her face lit up as Seb dashed through the street to her.

Here. He handed her the cookie and ran off as quickly as he came.

The young girl gazed at the tulip cookie with its sweet red icing. Gardening was just about her favourite thing in the world, right along with spending time with the boy who had given her the dessert.

It didn’t take long for Sebastian to realise being an errand boy wasn’t enough to help support his mother’s income. After asking around town, he found that the butcher was willing to accept fresh game and would give a cut of the profits to the hunters. Seb asked his friends if they would like to join him for his first hunt. Or rather, his first hunt without his father.

The band of boys ran through the snow into the Virgulta Forest to the north of DeepCreek. The trees were barren and the woods silent on the bright, sunny day.

Listen, mate, do you really think we're going to find anything? Asked a blond haired boy named Tristan. Sebastian shrugged. Tristan grumbled, Why are we out here hunting, anyway?

Because Seb’s father can’t hunt for them anymore. Axen, the tallest and perhaps most simple of the group, replied.

A brown-haired, blue-eyed boy named Cryse elbowed Axen in the ribs. Don’t worry about it, we’ll help ya, Seb! Cryse was Sebastian’s closest friend.

Thanks! I've brought a couple of my dad’s old traps, 'cause otherwise we'll never catch anything. Seb grinned.

I don't know, Seb. I'm pretty skilled with a bow. Tristan tugged on the sinew thread of his bow, and the cord suddenly snapped his fingers.

Yeah, right. If you're skilled with a bow, then I'm legendary! Eelon beamed. He was too cocky for his own good, but usually he meant well.

If we're going to catch anything, you guys need to quiet down. You're scaring away the game. Sebastian hissed.

The boys grumbled their apologies. They trampled through the woods as quietly as a group of children could, and ended up with nothing but a measly rabbit caught in one of Seb's snares by the end of the day. The sky turned grey and snow started falling in big, joyous flakes. Outside of the butcher shop, the boys went their separate ways.

Good luck, Seb! His best friend gave him a pat on the shoulder before running off.

I’m going to need it. Seb sighed to himself. He pushed open the door and cautiously approached the tall counter.

Who is it? Someone called from the back. It’s just about closing time, you know! A large lady bustled in from the back of the store. Her cheeks were permanently flushed red in colour, her hair slightly askew. Oh! You’re... You’re Spiri and Maria’s son, aren’t you?

Seb nodded meekly. The woman’s apron was covered in a spray of bright pink, from blood being washed out of it a few too many times. I heard you’re willing to offer a cut of the profits from fresh game. The boy held his little rabbit up by its long feet. I caught him today.

The butcher wiped her hands on her stained apron. "We are looking for fresh game, but that’s too small, I’m afraid. Sebastian hung his head. He knew it... But I can skin it for you if you’d like to take it home." She offered, noticing how disappointed Seb had become. 

Really?

It’ll only take me a moment. Free of charge as long as you promise to bring in more game.

Sebastian nodded gratefully and passed her the wee rabbit.

The boy kicked off his boots on the doorframe outside of his house and shivered. Night had fallen swiftly, bringing a winter chill with it. He stepped inside, greeted by the warm glow of the fire from the hearth, and his mother’s smile. I brought dinner!

There you are! I was beginning to worry. His mother hurried over from the kitchen counter. She took the bundle of thick parchment paper from her son and unwrapped it. ...How did you pay for this?

Sebastian took off his boots and winter wear, and ruffled his hat-hair. I didn’t. I hunted it.

‘Hunted’ isn’t a word, sweetheart. Did you use your father’s traps?

The boy nodded. I left them out with a little bait. Hopefully I’ll have something caught in one tomorrow. I’ve got a deal with the butcher.

Maria laughed and lovingly kissed her son’s head. Well done, Sebby! You’re such a responsible young man.

Sebastian smiled with pride and sidled up next to the fire.

Chapter Two

Two years flew by in the blink of an eye, and Seb had been begging Matthias to let him start his apprenticeship. The blacksmith was hesitant, as smithing was dangerous, and Seb was still so young. Nevertheless, it was always the first thing the boy mentioned when he arrived at the forge each morning!

Maria touched her son’s shoulder. Seb? The boy grunted in his sleep and turned away. Sebastian!

Seb propped himself up on his elbows and yawned. What? Is something the matter?

There was a banging noise out behind the house. I think it’s that raccoon again.

Okay. He sank back down onto his bed and pulled the rough wool blankets up to his nose.

Seb, go check on it!

But —

And get more firewood too, please.

Sebastian groaned as his mother left his tiny room. He threw off the heavy blankets and placed his bare feet on the cool wooden floorboards. From the pale light outside, he could tell dawn was approaching, and he would’ve had to get up shortly anyway. He dressed, grabbed his bow and quiver, and reluctantly stepped outside. Sebastian was growing rapidly, having hit a growth spurt earlier in the year. He must have looked at least two years older than he was to those who didn’t know him, with his unusually tall physique and wise, honey-brown eyes.

He walked around the side of the house by the dim morning light, his bow drawn and an arrow nocked. Another loud bang sounded, and Seb caught a flash of something small, moving sluggishly before releasing his arrow. He slung his bow across his back and approached the animal. A well-fed raccoon, with an arrow through its side. Sebastian determined the raccoon had been trying to climb up a piece of sheet metal to reach an enclosed compost bin. He wrenched out the arrow and sighed with relief. I’m glad you weren’t a cat. He picked up the grey animal by its tail, and grabbed a few more logs for his mother.

Sebastian took the plump raccoon to the butcher before heading to the forge. He’s nice and fat, he’ll sell well? Seb asked hopefully.

The butcher shrugged. People don’t normally like raccoon. Give me a few days to try and get rid of him. If he sells, you’ll get a quarter of the final price.

Seb closed the store’s front door, grumbling under his breath. The early summer air was warm and welcome as he walked to the forge. As soon as he stepped inside he went up to Matthias and said, I’d like to start apprenticing now.

Matthias sighed and faced the boy. Compared to the blacksmith, Seb was still much too scrawny and far too young. But he had been patient, watching Matthias craft for the past two years without complaint. He started to speak, but Seb beat him to it.

I know I’m still young and you don’t think I’m ready, but give me a chance! I’ll try as hard as I can and do whatever you tell me!

Seb. The smithy put a hand on the boy’s shoulder. I was going to say, ‘let’s start you off slow.’

Seb’s eyes widened. Then—

Yes, you can start apprenticing. Matthias finally gave in. But no heavy lifting or anything of the sort for a couple of years. I’ll do the metalworking, and you can do the prep work and put the finishing touches on pieces.

All right! Seb beamed, eager to put his observations to practice. Thus began Seb’s apprenticeship, honing weapons on the grindstone, tending to the forge’s fire, and finishing the bindings Matthias had set on hilts and saddles.

The other children started spending more time with Sebastian at the town schoolhouse. Not only did the girls think he was cute, but the boys thought it was ‘pretty cool’ that he could make weapons. As such, Seb always had someone to play with when he was free from work and hunting. One day he, his friends, and some other children from school headed toward the fields south of the town. The summer breeze pushed the sea of grass, making it shine as it waved to and fro.

Hey, look! One of the boys shouted and pointed to the sky.

The kids shielded their eyes against the sun and saw a giant dragon fly high above them. As it flew farther away, they could see a Human riding on its back. The children ‘oohed’ and ‘awed,’ and Eelon raised his voice. Let’s play Tamers and Bandits!

The other children shouted in agreement and asked who would be the Tamer. One of them would start as the sole Tamer, tag the other children (or bandits), and convert them into Tamers as well.

Let’s make it Seb! Eelon decided for the group.

The children began to scatter immediately, and Sebastian groaned. Why is it always me?

If we let you be a bandit, you’d never get caught! Eelon called over his shoulder as he ran into the long grass.

It isn’t so bad, Seb, Cryse said next to him. Fauna’s playing today.

Seb felt his heart thud as he was left alone on the edge of the field. Somewhere in the waving sea of green was his crush!

All right, I’m coming! he yelled, warning the other children the game was starting. He dashed along the paths of freshly crushed grass. One of them led to Fauna; he couldn’t care less about who the other paths led to. He spotted a girl in a yellow dress and raced after her, tagging her and changing her into a Tamer. There wasn’t a kid among them who could outrun the blacksmith’s apprentice, not even Axen with his lanky legs.

Where could she be?

Seb ran as far as the edge of the field, where it gave way to the creek the town was named after. He charged back into the long grass, the vibrant green stalks leaving itchy red cuts across his bare arms. He spotted someone up ahead. Whoever it was heard him coming but didn’t run away. Seb rushed to the trampled patch of grass and slowed as he realised it was her. Fauna turned to him. The floral design on the hem of her navy blue dress caught his eye.

Got you, he said shyly, touching her shoulder softly.

The young girl blushed and raised her grey eyes to meet his. She was about to speak when Tristan shouted from the edge of the field, I think that’s everyone! If you’re a Tamer, come over to me!

Seb glanced over to where Tristan was calling, and as he turned his head back to Fauna she pressed her lips against his in a fleeting kiss. Her cheeks were bright red as she started to run toward the other children.

Come on, Seb! She called to him. The boy stood dumbstruck. It was his first—and certainly not his last—kiss from Fauna Byne.

On a quiet Sunday evening, Seb sat at home with his mother. He had been at work that morning and playing all afternoon. The mother and son sat peacefully, while she sewed buttons onto the cuff of a shirt, and Seb read to himself.

I’m so proud of you. Maria cut the silence, pushing her cascading dark brown hair over her shoulder. You’ve been working so hard for Matthias.

Yep, Seb mumbled, engrossed in his book.

Do you like him? She asked suddenly.

Sebastian looked up, startled by the random question. Of course I do... Uncle Matthias is nice. He babies me too much, though. Maria smiled softly and Seb asked, Why?

The beautiful woman rocked her chair gently and shook her head. It was just a question. And Seb thought no more of it.

Several weeks later, Seb called out to Matthias at the end of his shift, Hey! Want to come over for dinner tonight?

The grimy blacksmith wiped sweat from his brow and straightened his back as he plunged white-hot metal into a bucket of water. Is it all right with your mum?

Sebastian shrugged. Yeah. She was the one who wanted me to ask you.

Matthias nodded and removed the metal from the water with a pair of tongs. I’ll be there.

Seb had stayed out playing with his classmates a little later than he should have. He raced home, and as he was walking by the window outside, something caught his eye. Through the half-drawn curtains, he saw his mother and Matthias embracing. Seb’s eyes widened, and he ducked his head under the sill. His mother and Matthias...? His heart beat against his chest at the surprise. Sebastian pondered for a moment whether he should walk away and come back later, but he was already late for dinner. His palms sweated as he jiggled the doorknob loudly. As he pushed open the door, he called out, I’m home! Sorry I’m late!

Matthias and his mother greeted him with suspicious exuberance, standing a few feet from each other. Seb pretended not to notice that they were partly out of breath.

Chapter Three

Sebastian was now a tall, handsome young man at the age of fifteen. Almost sixteen, mind you. His chestnut brown hair was shaggy—he only just managed to keep it out of his eyes by brushing it aside every so often. While still lean, he was now graced with hard-earned muscle under his baggy shirts. Life was going well for the young man. His hunting and smithing had improved vastly, and he was nearing the end of his schooling with respectable marks.

Seb slung his bow over his shoulder and shut the front door of his house. The spring air was cool and refreshing as he headed to the Virgulta Forest. As he marched along, he wondered, as he often did, why his mother and Matthias never furthered their relationship in the past. Both of them were still single, and Matthias had a nice house to himself, without anyone to share it with. It was none of Seb’s business, however.

Later, as Seb exited the butcher with a few more gold coins in his pocket than when he entered, he gazed down the street. It was bustling with traders, and he caught sight of a beautiful young woman speaking to a smiling man, who was leaning against a wooden cart. He clicked his tongue and jogged across the street, slipping an arm around the maiden’s waist.

Hey. Who’s this? Seb asked, eyeing the young man.

Fauna raised her eyebrow at Sebastian. This is Glen. He’s going to handle some of my father’s transports.

Nice to meet you, Glen. Seb shook the young man's hand firmly, with his other arm still around Fauna’s waist.

Likewise. The young man looked thoroughly unimpressed with Sebastian's appearance, his smile gone. I’ll talk to you later, Fauna. He tipped his flat cap stiffly and stuffed his hands into his pockets as he walked away.

Fauna shoved Seb with a playful grin. It’s uncanny! How do you always show up when a guy is talking to me?

It’s a sixth sense. Seb smiled as he staggered from her push. Do you want to come over for dinner tonight?

My father’s home. I can’t. Fauna brushed her silky, straight auburn hair over her shoulder.

He doesn’t have to know it’s my house you’re visiting.

I’m sorry, Seb. Fauna folded her arms across her chest, aware that passers-by were eyeing the handsome couple curiously.

All right. He smiled with a twinge of sadness. I’ll see you around. He turned to his left and started to walk away.

Wait! Fauna caught his hand, stopping him. You know I want to, right?

I know. Seb squeezed her hand with a gentle grin on his lips and hurried off. He hadn’t intended on running into his girlfriend, so he was late for work at the forge.

Good mornin’, Seb! A townsperson called with a wave.

Morning! Seb waved, not breaking his stride.

He was almost at his destination when a farmer beckoned him over to his hay cart. Did you hear about the storm that’s coming in?

Seb shook his head and the farmer continued. It’ll be here in a matter of days! Better make sure your traps are pulled or they could get damaged.

Thanks, I appreciate the info! Seb nodded gratefully and sped off to the forge. He slid open the door halfway, letting some fresh air into the workspace. Matthias was already hard at work, sparks flying from the anvil. Mornin’, boss! Seb called out and smiled, tying a thick leather apron up behind his back. I just heard that a storm’s coming in!

Is there? The burly blacksmith wiped his brow. That means you won’t be out hunting, so you’ll have more time to spend here!

That’s right..., Sebastian mumbled as he picked up a sledgehammer. Seb had other plans in mind.

The night was partially clear, with scattered stars poking their way through dull grey clouds. The wind had picked up earlier in the afternoon; a storm was most definitely on its way. Seb ran through the quiet streets of DeepCreek and hauled himself over a stone fence. He snuck through a meticulously kept garden, the veiled moonlight reflecting off of lush green leaves. Crouching down between the edge of the garden and the stone house, he looked up at one of the windows. After several minutes Seb saw Fauna pass in front of it, and he stealthily climbed an arbour of ivy. He pushed himself up onto the slanted roof and tapped on her window.

Fauna unlatched the window and opened it cautiously. Seb crept over, only having a foot of space between the sill and the edge of the roof. Seb! What did I tell you about this! Fauna hissed, looking back over her shoulder to check if her door was shut. 

I’m pretty sure you said ‘do it as often as you can’.

I did not. Fauna smirked and leaned out of the window to kiss him. You’re either going to get hurt or caught one of these days.

Seb shrugged, one elbow over her window sill and one leg dangling off the edge of the roof. You couldn’t come to me, so I came to you.

They kissed again, long and deep. As their lips parted Sebastian caressed Fauna’s cheek, her pale skin soft and smooth.

Just in case I don’t see you the day after next, happy birthday Seb, she whispered, their faces still close. A surprised expression crossed Seb’s face. What? You didn’t forget, did you? Fauna asked in disbelief.

Maybe. Seb laughed and scratched the back of his head. I’ve been a little busy.

Fauna brushed her thumb over her boyfriend’s lips. She gazed at him lovingly, appreciating his boyish good looks. You’re always busy, Seb. You need to learn to take some time for yourself.

I have time to myself, when I’m hunting.

That’s not what I meant...

Sebastian shrugged his broad shoulders, his shaggy, brown hair tossed by the rising wind. Don’t worry about me, sweetheart.

Fauna felt a pang in her chest. The way he said ‘sweetheart’, so caring and gentle, yet the way he disregarded her concern... She didn’t know whether to let herself be upset or be swept away by his calm voice. Fauna heard the heavy steps of her father in the hallway outside her door.

Seb—

I know. he smiled sweetly. Bye, Fauna.

She grabbed the collar of his jacket before he could back away and planted a hasty kiss on his lips. With a grin, Sebastian pushed away from the window, descending the ivy arbour and leaping to the ground.

Were you speaking with someone? Fauna’s father, Charles, opened her door and looked around suspiciously.

No. Fauna shook her head. She hadn’t had the time to shut the window before her father entered. He strode over to the window, planted his hands on the sill, and poked his head out, however not a soul was in sight.

What weather, Maria murmured as rain lashed against the window panes. Her son grunted in response. It’s your birthday tomorrow.

It is, Seb said quietly, reading a book on the settee.

Don’t you want to do anything special? Turning sixteen is a big deal!

Seb met his mother’s gaze as she put down her sewing. Being here with you is special enough, Mom. There wasn’t a hint of sarcasm or mockery in his voice. His eyes, with their honey-brown colour, returned to the pages of his book. Outside, the wind howled, and the sky flashed. They sat in silence until a crack of thunder shook the house.

Goodness! Maria nearly dropped her embroidery work.

Sebastian thought about Matthias, who had seemed on edge and anxious all the while at work that day. Perhaps he had a fear of storms? The young man attempted to focus on his book, but every few minutes, thoughts of his mentor distracted him. Another crash of thunder made Seb snap his book shut and take his coat from the rack.

What in the name of Kyin are you doing? his mother asked in alarm.

I’m just going to check on Matt. He seemed unwell this morning, and I can’t stop thinking about him. He buttoned his leather coat and put his hand on the doorknob.

Matthias is a grown man, he’ll be all right, Seb... She tried to dissuade him from leaving the warm, dry house.

I won’t relax until I know for sure. The young man smiled and ran out into the storm. Maria shook her head with a sigh and continued her embroidery.

Sebastian knocked on the blacksmith’s door, rain pounding on his shoulders. No one answered. Maybe he can’t hear me over the storm? Seb pondered. He ran to the heavy sliding doors of the forge attached to the house. He dug a set of keys out of his pocket and found the correct key by a well-timed flash of lightning. He opened the padlock and slid open the door, careful to close it behind him. Droplets fell wildly from his clothes as he ran to the door connecting Matthias’s house and the workshop. He pounded on the door. Still, no one answered. The young man felt anxiety creep into his chest. What if Matthias was incapacitated inside?

Seb? What are you doing here? He heard his mentor’s familiar voice call from behind several high stacks of crates.

I was just checking on you. Seb ran over to him, able to see by the dim glow of the ever-burning firepit. You seemed off this morning, and I thought it might be because of the storm.

So you came to comfort me? Matthias grinned, amused. He plopped a powerful hand on Seb’s head. I’m just fine. But I did have a reason to be anxious this morning. The smith turned away and disappeared behind the stacks, leaving Sebastian confused. Do you trust me? he called back to Seb.

Well... yeah..., Seb replied, more confused now than before.

Then close your eyes and hold out your hands.

Seb did so, unsurely. What did Matthias have him do this for? He heard footsteps approaching.

Careful, it’s heavy. The smith placed a leaden object in Seb’s hands. It was cool and smooth to the touch...

Open your eyes.

Seb’s breath was instantly taken away. A gorgeous black opalescent egg was in his hands. Is this... Is this what I think it is? He was mesmerised by the rainbow-gem flecks glistening in the fire light.

If you’re thinking it’s a dragon egg, then yes. Happy birthday, Seb!

The young man nearly dropped the gorgeous object at the words ‘dragon egg.’ Sebastian stared at his mentor. ...What? The egg Seb held was large enough in circumference that he wasn’t quite able to make his fingers meet around its width. He noticed another egg Matthias had cradled in the crook of his arm. It was purely ebony.

Bring it to the hearth. I’ve heard warming them by a fire will help them hatch more quickly.

It’s hatching? Seb exclaimed, following the smith.

It started this morning, this one, too. He carefully placed the ebony egg on the rim of the hearth.

Seb did the same and backed away, staring at Matthias in bewilderment. Why do you have dragon eggs, Matt? How did you get them? And when?

The burly smith held up a hand and grabbed two empty crates, flipping them over next to the hearth. Take a seat, Seb. We’ve got a lot to discuss.

The young man sat down, his eyes searching the perfectly smooth surface of the egg. Upon closer inspection, he noticed a vein-like crack near the base of the gem egg.

Seb, Matthias started quietly, do you know why your father died?

Seb felt as though a bolt of lightning had struck him. Why... Why would Matthias bring this up now? He shook his head, his eyes wide. He had asked his mother repeatedly when he was younger, but even she didn’t have a reason why.

When you were just a wee lad, about three years old, your father left on a journey. You see, Seb, your father wasn’t just a trapper. Matthias’s dark eyes met Seb’s. "He was an adventurer. Spiri could never sit still for long or stay in one place and be content. He was happiest when he was off exploring. His parents were the same way, Wanderers, or nomads as they’re often called by average folk. He first came through DeepCreek with his parents when we were kids, and that was when I met him. His folks dropped into the forge to do business with my father, and we hit it off immediately. Spiri and his folks