Thrones

By E.M. Sinclair

Tika is dragged into an uprising in Strale. The lords who plan to take power from King Troman and his government, are all from houses who wish things to return to the ways they've always known and enjoyed. They want a return to slavery and to their unlimited and uncriticised ways of living at the expense of all others. They are also determined to regain the lands and coin that King Troman had relieved them of in the last few years. Tika chooses to aid the lords who try to uphold the new freedoms Troman had introduced.

• Language: English
• Publisher: E.M. Sinclair
• Release date: Dec 11, 2022
• ISBN: 9781005477134

E.M. Sinclair

From as far back as I can remember, I have always had a feeling that Dragons are real. When you look at a wide sky there is a glimpse from the corner of your eye which must surely be a Dragon whisking past. I always regarded the stories of monstrous fierce Dragons as being completely wrong and I detested stories of St George and his dragon killing tendencies.When I was still a small child my grandfather gave me a copy of Kenneth Grahame's The Reluctant Dragon. It made complete sense to me - a Dragon living in a secluded cave, wanting only peace and quiet to write poetry.

Book preview

Chapter One

Since returning from a visit to the long lost island of Beragia, Lady Tika of Iskallia's closest friends had been aware of a reserve within her. On occasion, she seemed to be far away in her mind but she said nothing and no one intruded on her thoughts. Even Navan, the man who had raised Tika from her birth when he himself was barely five years old, didn't know what had caused such introspection. Navan being Navan, he didn't question her, he knew she would speak in her own time if she so chose.

The three days of the late summer market halfway along the valley had been a great success. Thankfully, in the opinion of Lady Tika's closest friends and advisors there had been no more alarms or demands on their Lady since their journey to Sapphrea. The newest arrivals in the Iskallian Dragon Treasury had all settled in surprisingly easily. After Tika let it be known that the young Dragon, Zeeki, was overly sensitive about the colour of his scales, everyone had tried to pretend the particularly dreadful shade of orange was perfectly acceptable, although those meeting him for the first time were still inclined to blink in shock.

The other young Dragon was Seffa, a pale turquoise scaled Dragon, whose demure appearance belied a nature most definitely inclined to mischief. The third new member of Kija's Treasury was Zanti. She was close to Kija's age, a mottled green Elder who Tika knew was a comfort to Kija who had only Brin as an adult in Iskallia. Essa, the huge Sergeant in the Iskallian Guards was still recovering from injuries she'd received in Beragia but was nearly back to her usual great strength. The fierce summer heat had finally begun its gentle decline towards autumn.

Down near the lake, Tika watched occasional leaves whirl down onto the water. Colour still flamed along the shore but here and there a bare branch was revealed. She was lying on the grass just before the small cluster of fruit trees, Farn sprawling beside her.

'Are the others all at Port Maressa?' Tika asked.

'Most of them are, my Tika, except Genia and Minyth. They went to visit Fenj.'

'Pearl feels safe now, going to the Port?'

'Oh yes. Since Mother was angry with Pearl's old Flight, they don't come near there.'

Tika got to her feet and began to stroll back to the main path which led up to the House on the plateau high above. Farn paced beside her. 'Are you really well, my Tika?' His mind voice was soft but there was an underlying concern.

She stopped. 'Of course I am. Why would you think I wasn't?'

He lowered his head to peer into her face. 'Since we came back from Sapphrea you have seemed - sad?'

Tika leaned against his chest, her face on the part of his neck bare of scales. 'No dearest. Not sad. There just seem to be a lot of things to think of lately.' Stepping back she smiled, stroking his long beautiful face.

'Oh. I don't think of too many things,' he confided. 'I get muddled.'

She gave a gurgle of laughter and swung up onto his silver blue back. 'Let's go along the valley a little way. It's good to be just us, Farn.'

Farn lifted into the air at once. 'It is, my Tika. Perhaps we could go and visit Fenj soon?' He gained height, flying slowly to extend the time alone with his soul bond. 'I didn't like seeing the Kindred fight, my Tika. So many died.'

Tika sent a pulse of love through their mind link. 'I know, Farn. I didn't like it either. I wonder if Jorab will allow another Treasury of that name again.'

'Mother says he will not. He is angry that Nanu brought shame on dear Seela's memory so there will be no other Treasury permitted to use that name.' Farn drifted on, following the winding glitter of the Iska river and enjoying having Tika to himself for a time.

Later, he landed on the plateau near the House, pleased with a whole afternoon with Tika, and she entered as the bell warned of a meal arriving. She resolved to make more time to spend with Farn and also to put aside the thoughts that had been filling her mind too much recently. The friends around her table that evening all noticed a change in her attitude. She really listened to conversations, joining in as she had before and laughing at several remarks. They were relieved that whatever had been bothering their Lady seemed to have been dealt with.

Except for Navan. He had known her too long and he still saw the hint of worry shadows in her eyes. He asked nothing though, knowing she would speak in her own time if she felt the need. The Historian and Archivist of Iskallia, Dromi, made the mistake of commenting, a few days later, in the archives with Werlan and Mardis Fayle, that life had been quiet and peaceful for many more consecutive days than usual. The very next day, a scroll arrived on the great circle of coloured slabs in front of the House. The young Guard, Sney, brought it to Tika, who was still in the hall after breakfast, in case anyone needed to speak to her.

Thanking her, Tika glanced at the seal: an ear of corn was indented in the wax, identifying it as from Chaban. Breaking the seal with her thumbnail, she tipped out the contents. There were two messages - one from Queen Tupalla and one from her senior bodyguard, Zu Lan. Both messages were in the same hand, Zu Lan's Queen had suffered severe and extensive burns to the right side of her face and body and she found writing very difficult. Therefore Zu Lan wrote most things for her.

Tika read the larger pages first. The Queen asked if Tika might visit her soon. She wished to discuss things of some importance with her ally of Iskallia, at Lady Tika's convenience of course. Frowning a little at the unusual formality of Tupalla's message, Tika turned to the second papers. Zu Lan wrote that she and her sisters who served and loved the Queen of Chaban were concerned that her health was failing. She couldn't point to anything specifically wrong, just that they felt the Queen was ever more tired and quiet. She also told Tika the reason Tupalla wished to see her concerned the succession to the throne of Chaban.

Zu Lan asked that Tika visit on her own, rather than with a large company. Almost as an afterthought, Zu Lan added that Tupalla was worried by news from Strale, the land that bordered Chaban to the north. After some consideration, Tika climbed the stairs to the archives. She gave Dromi the messages which he then passed on to Werlan and Veka, Mardis being busy down in the library.

'Are there any of King Kayvel's line left now?' Werlan asked after he'd read the papers.

'I don't think so. I'm sure the Queen once told me she had three people she thought might rule well but I never pursued the subject.'

'It can't be any of her council can it?' Dromi frowned.

'I'm sure she wasn't speaking of them.' Tika was definite.

'The comment from Zu Lan about news from Strale doesn't sound good.' Werlan reread the message. 'Will you go and see her?'

'Of course I will. I'm very fond of her, apart from us being allied to Chaban. Zu Lan says she believes Tupalla's health is failing. I'm not even sure how old she is.'

'I went through various records as best I could,' Dromi said. 'I would surmise her to be nearing eighty years old now. I worked back to the time she was so hurt and withdrew from public life. That was thirty eight years past, Tika, and she was known to be near forty then.'

Tika shook her head. All that time of suffering. Poor Lady.

'If she's kept her three candidates secret, I wonder how her council might accept them?'

Tika stared at Werlan. 'You think they could object or something?'

'I do understand the lady's reasoning but such secrets are never wise, in my opinion.'

'I wonder if these three Queen Tupalla regards as possible successors actually know of her interest or intentions?' Dromi asked thoughtfully.

'Hopefully she'll be more forthcoming when I see her. I'll go tomorrow. Just me and Farn,' Tika added.

'Shall we send word that you'll visit?'

'Yes, we should.' Tika reached for paper and a pen. 'I'll send it through the circle when I go back downstairs.' She wrote quickly then waved the paper to speed the drying of the ink. Dromi placed it in the case and pressed the Iskallian seal into the wax.

'I wonder what's worrying them about Strale?' Werlan mused. 'Do you have any idea, Tika?'

'No, I don't. I just hope it isn't serious, whatever it is,' she replied as she left them.

She took the scroll case, ran down the stairs and out to place it on the centre stone of the circle. A few whispered words and it vanished. Re-entering the House, she looked into her Captain of Guards office near the main doors. 'I'm going to see Queen Tupalla tomorrow, Fedran. I'll be going alone, no need to worry.'

He nodded. 'If you're sure. I could always wait with Farn on the roof?'

'Do you really think that would be best?'

Fedran smiled. 'It would mean I wouldn't worry.'

Tika returned his smile. 'Very well. Come if you like but I think the Queen wants a private conversation.'

Fedran nodded. 'I'll be quite happy on the roof,' he repeated.

Next day, Tika dressed in her uniform trousers and shirt and buckled on her sword. There were questions at breakfast but she simply explained she was visiting Chaban and Queen Tupalla's message had been formal rather than her usual chatty letters.

'Do you want us to come with you?' asked Teyo.

'No. Fedran is the only one with me today, and he'll stay on the roof with Farn.'

'Is the Queen ill do you suppose?'

'No, Veka, I don't think she is, but she wants to talk.'

Fedran and Tika walked out to the plateau where Farn waited for them, his eyes sparkling. 'Pearl's coming too,' he told them at once.

Unsure why Pearl would decide to come, Tika climbed onto Farn's back, Fedran behind her. Rising quickly towards the Barrier Mountains to the north east, Farn opened a gateway to take them across the wide stretch of peaks. They came out above the empty foothills beyond the mountains before flying on to the main city of Romqway, its ancient castle towering over the clustered buildings around it.

Pearl landed first on the highest tower's flat roof and Farn followed her down. 'Tell the dear Queen we send her greetings, my Tika,' Farn said, as Tika and Fedran slipped from his back.

Tika hugged both Dragons then moved towards the tower doorway. It opened as she reached it and Zu Lan smiled welcome. 'I'll send refreshments up to your Captain,' she said, leading Tika down the narrow stairs. 'Thank you for coming early. Our sweet lady is better in the mornings. She tires too quickly through the day.' She said no more, just taking Tika straight through to the Queen's apartments.

While Tika crossed the room to greet the woman in the chair with a kiss, Zu Lan murmured to one of the other guards who left the room quietly. Tika sat on a stool beside Queen Tupalla's chair, studying the woman. The left side of her face was still smooth, still beautiful. The right side was a ruin.

'Thank you for coming, Tika. We felt we should discuss certain matters with you.' The Queen's voice was a rasp, not helped by the way scars had distorted her lips.

'You know you only have to ask and I'll always come.' Tika smiled.

'I need to make a firm decision about an heir to the throne of Chaban.' The Queen lifted her left hand towards Zu Lan who also drew a stool close to Tupalla's chair.

Zu Lan then spoke on her Queen's behalf. 'There were three who our sweet lady selected, although she gave them no hint of her interest in them. I have had them watched closely over the last few years.' After a glance at Tupalla and receiving a nod, Zu Lan continued. 'One was a young man. Unfortunately, he died in a fall from a cliff he chose to climb for a wager with a friend.'

Tupalla made a sound which Tika wasn't sure was disgust or amusement.

'There was a group of them. Only those two chose to attempt climbing and they both fell. They had also been drinking.' Zu Lan paused then spread her hands. 'We thought one who would take such a risk, for a wager, was perhaps not a suitable choice. The other two were girls, now young women in their middle twenties. One of them married a trader a year ago, against her family's wishes. Dear Majesty feels that was an unwise decision which now leaves but one.'

'May I ask if any of them were of your blood, Majesty?'Tika asked.

Again, Tupalla made a sound. 'All three were of different branches of my family,' she said.

Zu Lan continued after a moment. 'The one remaining I thought was the most promising from the start. She is a granddaughter of our dear Majesty's youngest brother. We hoped you might see for sure that her heart is true, Lady Tika. She has been introduced to the council simply as a distant connection. There has been no undue fuss over her, although Majesty has spoken to her at some length recently.'

Tupalla nodded. 'She is now aware of why she is here,' she croaked the words and Zu Lan held a bowl for the Queen to sip a little water.

The shawl the Queen wore and pooled on her lap, twitched and a grey face peered at Tika. 'I do not like this talk,' said a voice in their minds.

Tupalla's left hand stroked the cat gently. 'Like it or not, Ash, these words must be spoken now,' she murmured.

'Is there any special reason you want me to see her, Majesty?' Tika asked, placing her hand gently over the twisted lump of flesh that was Tupalla's right hand.

Tupalla's one remaining eye held Tika's gaze. 'I need to be sure, Tika, absolutely sure of this decision. My time grows short.' She lifted her other hand to touch Zu Lan's cheek. 'Let us be honest, my dear. My time grows short,' she repeated softly.

Tika glanced at Zu Lan then away, seeing tears fill the dark blue eyes.

'As you say, sweet Lady,' Zu Lan whispered.

'Your council knows of this matter and the introduction of this girl?' Tika asked.

Tupalla inclined her head. 'I have told them so. I have given them Zu Lan's reports on the girl. Her name is Talani. It was suggested she spent time with each of my counsellors. Rinda, who deals with education you may recall, was much impressed with Talani's interest. Lady Mormas too was most positive in her reaction to a day in Talani's company. The others agreed they could work with her. I speak of Rinda and Lady Mormas because Talani asked to spend longer with those two.'

Tupalla leaned her head back, her face suddenly pale. Zu Lan rose. 'I'll make you some tea, dear Lady.'

Tika let her mage sense slide into Tupalla's body. As she suspected, she found the heart muscles weakened. She let a little of her own strength trickle into the Queen before she withdrew her mind. Tupalla stared at her. 'I thank you for the thought, but no more please, Tika. I am ready to rest.'

Tika thought of Tupalla's twenty years of marriage to a violent, brutish king, culminating when he set fire to her. Then of thirty years and more of unbelievable pain. She nodded slowly. 'As you say, Majesty.'

She sat back a little. 'This girl you have chosen. Is she comfortable in the city, and with your plans for her? Her life will change considerably, Majesty. What of her family?'

Tupalla nodded to Zu Lan again, to speak for her.

'Her parents and grandparents are dead. She has been alone for several years, running the estate she inherited when she was barely thirteen. When our dear Lady requested she visit here, she came at once. She told us she had wanted to visit ever since she'd first heard stories of her great aunt.' Zu Lan hesitated. 'When we brought her into this room, Tika, she reacted as you did. She simply came to the Lady and kissed both cheeks.'

'I ask you to watch her, Tika, let her know you would support her. There will be times when she will need your help.' Tupalla gripped Tika's hand tighter in emphasis.

'As you say, Majesty,' Tika repeated, then she glanced at Zu Lan. 'And what of you?' she asked. 'Will you serve a new Queen?'

'She will, and her sisters too.' Tupalla's words were firm and clear and held great affection.

Zu Lan looked into the Queen's face then turned to Tika. 'We will serve,' she said softly.

'You will meet Talani and give me your true assessment?'

'Yes, Majesty, I will, but perhaps not now. Does she know of the circle here?'

Zu Lan frowned. 'She has been told there is a way to send messages great distances. That's all we've said so far.'

'Then let her visit Iskallia.' Tika smiled. 'Lady Mormas could accompany her, couldn't she?'

Tupalla's face twisted in her grotesque smile. 'Lady Mormas loves visiting Iskallia,' she agreed.

'And Za Mei can travel with them,' Zu Lan added.

'Tomorrow,' Queen Tupalla announced. 'If that is suitable, Tika?'

Tika rose, leaning close to kiss the Queen. 'We will be ready for our visitors,' she smiled. 'And I will tell you my opinion quickly.'

The other guard in the room, Za Tek, took Zu Lan's place beside the Queen while Zu Lan escorted Tika to the tower stairs. As Tika set foot on the first stair, Zu Lan caught her back. 'When the time comes, for a new queen, Za Mei will become Zu. I will remain here, but Za Mei will learn the new ways.'

They stared at each other then Tika nodded. 'I understand.'

Continuing up in silence, they emerged onto the tower roof. Fedran was leaning on the encircling wall with Za Mei and the two Dragons while Za Mei pointed out various locations in the city below. Silently, Tika went to Farn, climbing on his back, and Fedran joined her. The Dragons rose, circled the tower and then flew north west.

After the midday meal in Iskallia, Tika asked her advisors and companions to wait until the hall emptied again. She reported what she'd heard from Queen Tupalla and the expected arrival tomorrow of the Queen's probable successor. 'Could you not heal the Queen, Tika?' asked Shea.

'I could help her enough to survive a few years more but she's tired, Shea. Tired of pain all her life. She is not suffering at the moment, I mean other than from the burn scars. I feel she has the right to let things fall as they may. Is it my place to prolong her pain, when she has specifically asked me not too?'

Tika watched several people think her words over, then give reluctant nods. 'So what do you want us to do tomorrow?' asked Dog. 'What's her name?'

'Talani. And Lady Mormas and Za Mei will be coming here with her.'

'What will happen to Ash?' That was the black cat Cerys's mind voice.

Tika twisted round to meet her green gold eyes where she lay along the window sill. 'I'm sure Ash will be safe and cared for,' Tika replied aloud. 'This may seem an unusual place to Talani,' she went on. 'She is used to the city of Romqway.'

'You said she'd been running her family estate for a while?' Dromi pointed out.

'Hmmm.' Tika chewed her lower lip while she thought then shrugged. 'Let her go wherever she wants. Lady Mormas will be in charge.'

There were chuckles around the table. Lady Mormas could be quite a formidable character on occasion. 'Uniforms?' asked Fedran.

'Only for those you have on duty. I won't be dressed up.' Tika ignored frowns from several people. 'When people visit here, they have to accept me, and us, as we are. I will not put on any special performances for anyone, without an extremely good reason.'

People began to leave, Tika clearly having said all she intended to. Dromi lingered as the others left.

'Did the Queen speak of her concerns about Strale?' he asked.

Tika shook her head. 'No, she didn't. She's determined to sort out this matter of her heir to the Chabanese throne at the moment.'

'How old is this child she's chosen?'

'Young. She said mid twenties I think.'

'Your age.'

Tika stared at him in surprise, then laughed. 'I suppose so. I never remember how old I am.'

'Some of us are not so fortunate,' Dromi replied, groaning dramatically as he straightened. He was glad to hear Tika's laughter behind him as he made his way up to the archives. He had been far more worried by her bout of vagueness recently. He was the only one, he thought, who had also noticed a change in Pearl's behaviour when she was near Tika. He had very little in the way of mage senses but he had the feeling Pearl was worried, on Tika's behalf: it was something shared, between her and Tika, but it caused him a niggling alarm.

Tika looked up at Cerys. 'Where is Seren? I haven't seen him since yesterday. Is he well?'

'He went to see Volk. He thinks you're cross with him. Are you?'

'No. Why should I be?'

'You scolded him in Beragia.'

'I did, yes. He should not have demanded one of Seni Bern's warriors to carry him upstairs, Cerys. He should have waited for one of us.'

'I told him the same thing.' Cerys yawned and stretched. 'Now he's cross with me.'

'I'll find him later but surely he'll be back for food,' Tika smiled. 'I still don't understand how he can eat so much and still stay so very small.'

Cerys regarded her steadily. 'You eat a lot, but you're still the smallest person here, not counting the children,' she remarked.

'Thank you for that, Cerys.' Tika felt amusement from the cat who closed her eyes and settled more comfortably on the windowsill.

Dog wandered back into the hall and Tika raised a brow at the engineer in question. Dog sat down. 'What will Zu Lan do, when the Queen dies, Tika? Will she and her sisters return to Zukarab?'

Tika sat down next to her. 'Zu Lan will remain. It is Tupalla's wish. Zu Lan told me when I was leaving that Za Mei will be the one to stand closest to the new Queen.'

Dog listened carefully. 'I did wonder if that might happen. I think they've been serving Tupalla for so long they wouldn't settle back in Zu easily. Did they say what's wrong in Strale?'

'Unfortunately not.'

Dog grinned. 'We've been making plenty more poppers, just in case.' She patted Tika's hand and wandered off again.

Tika stared at her retreating back. Poppers? Stars above, she hoped those dreadful things would not be needed.

Chapter Two

'What do we call this visitor?' Veka asked through a mouthful of egg next morning. 'Does she know she'll be a queen?'

There was a pause while Tika thought. 'I honestly don't know if she's been told. I suppose we must call her Lady Talani.'

'Can Za Mei open the circle safely?' asked Fedran.

Tika nodded. 'All four of the Queen's guards can do so. Tupalla insisted they all learnt how to do so when we first found a circle there.'

When Dromi left the hall, he gave Tika a rather pointed stare, obviously not approving of her shorts and shirt. Essa grinned when she was alone with Tika.

'They are clean.' Tika muttered.

'I think I agree with you. About not being different when visitors arrive here,' Essa remarked. 'So many places we've been to where people look very grand and think dressing so formally will hide their not always pleasant characters.'

'I'll remember that to tell Dromi and Fedran next time they complain. I notice you're not in uniform?'

Essa sighed. 'Palos refuses to let me train fully yet so no. I have to stay off duty. He said even though you healed the muscles, they still need more exercises.'

Tika glanced out of the window but saw no Dragons on the plateau at the moment.

'Will you entertain Lady Talani? I imagine Lady Mormas will head for Dog, Mardis or Dromi?'

Tika groaned. 'I suppose I'll have to. Have you seen Onion by the way?'

'Volk said he was still down near Deep Fold. Did you want him for something?'

'No, but I like to have a general idea where he is.'

A tall, gangly man walked into the hall as she spoke and Essa gave a grunt of amusement.

'Onion. I was just wondering where you were.'

He folded himself onto a chair, his one brown eye regarding Tika with affection. 'It will soon be time to change the flowers in the entrance. I've been sorting out which ones I'll use.'

'Oh. Well I'm sure they'll be beautiful, they always are.'

'Of course,' Onion agreed, his smile creasing the long scar across his face.

Perhaps fortuitously, Tika sensed the circle was in use. 'Visitors arriving Onion,' she said, getting up. 'Lady Mormas, Lady Talani and Za Mei.'

'Oh good.' Onion strode out beside her. 'I like Lady Mormas.'

'Really? I mean I'm glad you do.'

Fedran emerged from his office beside the main door and stood with Essa and Onion a pace behind Tika. The air above the huge circle seemed to shimmer for a heartbeat then there was a pop of air and three women stood there. The eldest of the three beamed as she stepped off the stones.

'Lady Tika!' She enveloped Tika in a hug then released her. 'May I introduce Lady Talani.'

Tika smiled at the younger woman who bobbed a curtsey. 'I'm glad to meet you, Lady Tika,' she said. 'My aunt's counsellors have all told me a lot about you.' She looked along the valley then up at the soaring peaks. 'It is very beautiful here.'

'Well come inside for a while and decide what you'd like to see here.' Tika led them back into the House and into the hall.

Talani exclaimed at the carvings in the stonework while Tika regarded the large bag Lady Mormas was heaving along with her. Sarila immediately appeared with tea and Lady Mormas produced several tubes which she waved at Onion. They rattled. 'I brought you some seeds of those plants we spoke of before.' She gave him a triumphant grin. 'And I've brought several books I thought Dog and Mardis might like to copy,' she added.

Strangely, those two entered the hall at that moment, almost, Tika thought, as if they'd been listening outside. Surely not? They encouraged Lady Mormas to finish her tea then bore her and her bag off to the library. Onion started singing to the handful of tubes he'd been given and strolled off without a backward glance. Tika saw Talani had a slightly puzzled expression so she apologised.

'I'm sorry. I was hoping someone might have warned you we are very informal here.'

Talani smiled. 'I was told, yes.'

They studied each other, watched by Essa and Za Mei. Tika saw an oval, pale face with a scatter of freckles across the straight nose and cheeks. Talani's hair was a dark honey colour with a suggestion of red here and there. Her eyes were golden hazel, the same shade as Queen Tupalla's remaining left eye Tika realised, fringed with long dark lashes. In turn, Talani saw a woman smaller than herself, and she was considered small among Chabanese women. Dark curly hair tied back in a braid, tanned skin, high cheek bones and a narrow chin below delicate lips. It was Tika's eyes which held Talani's gaze: the most brilliant emerald green, surrounded by tiny silver scales rather than the usual white.

Tika let her mage sense slide into the other woman's mind and searched carefully through her thoughts and memories before withdrawing and giving a soft laugh. 'Forgive my staring, Lady Talani. I suspect you look very like Queen Tupalla must once have looked.'

Talani seemed shocked. 'I have been told there is a resemblance but my aunt was always known as a great beauty, which was why the king stole her away.'

Za Mei spoke into the ensuing silence. 'Perhaps Lady Talani could see the children if they are at their drills?' she suggested.

'Of course.' Tika and Essa rose. Talani wore grey trousers and a pale green shirt rather than the long dresses favoured by Lady Mormas, Tika noted. The very thought of wearing a dress made Tika shudder.

Talani watched closely as Second Sergeant Seko put the children through their paces. 'counsellor Rinda insists on very similar exercises each day in her schools,' she remarked.

'All these children asked to drill, like the adult Guards.' Tika smiled. 'Second Sergeant Seko devised rather easier versions, depending on the ages and size of the children,' she explained.

Za Mei glanced up at Essa. 'Your children were very young when they began, I believe?'

'They were four, although they looked older.' Essa pointed out the twins, Ama and Etto. 'They are seven now but I know most people who don't know them think they are much older because they are bigger.'

'I was taught the use of weapons from a young age,' said Talani. 'My grandfather insisted. He died when I was under five but my parents followed his command. I'm very grateful they did.'

Tika suspected there was a good reason behind that comment but she asked nothing. 'Would you like to see the library, or go along to the look out rocks?' she asked.

'I'd love to go outside if you don't mind?'

Tika waited for Za Mei to agree but the Zukarab guard just smiled. 'I would like to watch more of these children, if I may?'

Tika was a little surprised but also pleased that Za Mei felt her charge would be safe alone with Tika. The two young women walked out onto the plateau and Talani paused. 'It's much warmer here than in Chaban and yet there is snow on the mountains.'

'It's something to do with being so high and so enclosed. I have people here who could explain it far better if you're really interested?'

Talani laughed. 'I'll take your version, thank you.'

'It is very hot in summer but also very cold in winter. Snow lasts an unfortunately long time.' They were passing the medical school and Tika said she'd show Talani round and introduce her to Palos and Konya later. They passed Volk's caves and reached the end of the pathway.

Tika sat down on one of the large flat boulders and waved a hand towards the east. 'The valley of Iskallia,' she said.

Talani moved forward, close to the edge and stared down then along the narrow valley. 'It is truly beautiful, Lady Tika.' She stepped back and sat beside Tika.

'Please, don't call me lady. I am not raised to be a lady. Tika is my name. Just Tika.'

Talani laughed. 'Za Mei and Mormas told me you dislike titles. Please call me Talani.' She grinned. 'And Mormas told me to stop calling her lady. She said it makes her feel old.' She paused, glanced at Tika and continued. 'I pointed out that she is old and I was astonished by some of the words she used.'

'Oh my! You said that to her? Oh well done!'

They sat in a comfortable silence for a while then Talani sighed. 'The counsellors speak carefully but Zu Lan and her sisters, and Aunt Tupalla, have told me what she wishes for me.'

'How do you feel about that?'

'Honoured? Excited? Frightened? I believe I could be a good ruler, but I know I will need a great deal of help from the council and Za Mei if I succeed Aunt Tupalla.. I completely understand that. I'm so glad my aunt has had such a devoted friend through all the terrible years she's endured.'

Talani half turned to look directly into Tika's face and drew a breath. 'They told me they have asked you to give them your opinion of my ability. Why would they ask that?'

'They didn't tell you I am a mage? That I can truth read? See what is in a person's head, heart and spirit?'

Talani paled slightly. 'You can do that? I know you're a healer. You helped Aunt Tupalla with the agony of her scars she said, but …..'

Tika smiled, reaching to touch Talani's cheek gently. 'I already have, my dear. I will tell Queen Tupalla that she has chosen wisely. But what of you? I understand you have long run your family estate? Will you not miss being there, family and friends?'

Talani shook her head. 'Most of the family moved out of Chaban, into the Free Lands, when Tupalla was taken by the king. Only my grandfather, her youngest brother, refused to leave. The rest feared Kayvel's temper when my aunt failed to produce any children. That's why they left. I was my parents' only child and so I grew up on the estate, learning its management. The workers were my friends, especially when my parents died. I will surely miss them all but perhaps I'll be able to visit, a few times a year.'

After a brief pause, Tika asked something that had interested her for a while. 'Who was it who hired the Zukarab guards? Queen Tupalla was surely far to ill for too long to do so herself.'

'My grandfather. He used nearly all the coin we had, sold a great deal of land. He went to the Isles of Zukarab himself to make the contract. That was not long before he died. I have read his papers and also my father's journals. They were told Aunt Tupalla had a wasting illness and would be an invalid. Almost as soon as he heard, grandfather sent two women from our estate to care for her but he never managed to get any messages from them. They tried to run back to the estate but only one survived. She told grandfather the truth of what had happened. That's when he went to Zukarab.'

Tika stared along the valley and pointed. Talani looked in the direction she indicated then drew in an audible breath. Seven Dragons flew steadily towards them. They watched as two large and one mid sized Dragons flew on towards the House. The four smaller ones wheeled overhead and settled on the plateau path close to the rocks. Tika rose, going to hug each one. With her arm still round Farn's neck, she held out a hand to Talani. 'Come and meet them,' she invited, speaking aloud.

She touched the long face of the shimmering grey scaled Dragon. 'This is Pearl. She is a Sea Dragon.' Touching the next, a green grey, she went on: 'This is Minyth, and the beautiful one there is Zeeki.' She stroked his bright orange scales. 'And this is the brother of my heart, my soul bond, Farn,' she finished.

Four pairs of flashing faceted eyes stared at the visitor. 'Lady Talani is the granddaughter of dear Tupalla's youngest brother,' she told the young Dragons.

'Greetings, Talani.' Pearl mind spoke the woman who blinked, swallowed and managed to reply.

'I am pleased to meet you.'

Zeeki dipped his head suddenly. 'We could take you to look along the valley,' he offered.

Tika thought quickly and made a decision. 'Come on,' she said, pulling Talani towards her. Not giving her time to object, Tika pushed her onto Farn's back, scrambling up behind her. Farn rose, the other three rising with him. He drifted gently down towards the valley floor then flew along the line of the river.

Tika felt Talani relax. 'Are you alright?' she asked. 'I should have asked first. I'm sorry.'

'You don't sound sorry,' Talani retorted. 'It's wonderful though, seeing the land like this.'

They flew a few miles east before Farn settled close to one of the wide bends of the river, the other Dragons close by. They were near a group of trees, brilliant in their early autumn colours, on the northern side and Tika slid from Farn's back, Talani copying her. Talani turned in a slow circle. 'It's so quiet, so peaceful here,' she said, joining Tika on the grass.

'Romaby is not much further east,' Pearl mind spoke them.

'They have sheep there,' Minyth added helpfully.

Tika nodded. 'There are five settlements along the valley. I hope we don't need to make more.'

'Za Mei said you take in any who ask to live here. Is that true?'

'Yes. A lot of people in this world find they don't fit in or feel comfortable or safe in the places they come from. I admit I do check those who ask to come, to be sure they are truthful. This was just an empty valley when I came here with a few friends. I want it to stay as peaceful as possible.'

'I'm sure it will, my Tika,' Farn agreed.

'I came here because my Flight tried to kill me.' Pearl's tone was quite matter of fact.

Talani was startled. 'Tried to kill you? Why?'

'Because I ask lots of questions, but no one minds that here.'

'My sister and I were hurt too,' Minyth added shyly. 'Tika healed me and brought us here.'

'No one liked the colour of my scales,' said Zeeki.

Talani stared at him. 'Your scales aren't your fault though. Why didn't they blame your parents?' She sounded quite indignant, Tika noted.

Zeeki's neck stretched a little higher, Tika sensing surprise in him that a human should defend him.

She glanced at the sun. 'We should go back I'm afraid, or Za Mei will wonder where you are, and it's nearly lunch time too.'

'I could carry you.' Zeeki's head lowered so he could stare earnestly into Talani's face. She looked at Tika.

'The Dragons will never let you fall, I promise.' Tika told her. She sent a thought to Farn. 'Has Zeeki carried anyone before?'

'Oh yes, my Tika. So has Seffa. They practice with the twins and Rivan.'

Tika watched Talani climb carefully onto Zeeki's back and scrambled onto Farn, keeping a close eye on the orange Dragon. He lifted without any wobble and rose to a similar height as Farn had taken earlier. Rather hoping Za Mei wasn't around when they returned to the plateau, she saw her hopes were misplaced. Za Mei, Essa and several other people all watched as the four Dragons settled gently beside the circle.

Dog wandered across to them and spoke to Talani. 'Mormas sent me to find you. She thinks you really should see our printing machines,' she said.

Talani looked at Tika. 'Thank you for showing me some of your land. I would love to see more some time.' Then she followed Dog back into the House.

Tika went across to Za Mei and Essa. 'Should I have told you, before taking Talani off?' she asked Za Mei.

'No need. Did you decide if she is right?'

Straight to the point, Tika thought. 'I did. The Queen has made an excellent choice.'

Za Mei let out a faint sigh. 'I hoped she had,' she admitted.

'Come up to my rooms. It's far too hot out here,' Tika suggested. She nodded to Essa to remain with them, up the long stretch of stairs into her private quarters. Once they were settled, She spoke again. 'Talani told me much more than I expected. I do think she will work hard for Chaban but what of Zu Lan? Will she truly be content to train children?'

'We have discussed this in great detail. Zu Lan is a fine instructor and it is something she greatly enjoys. I think you know, in our Isles we start training very early - three years old is the usual age.'

'What can three year olds learn?' asked Essa. 'Surely not much?'

Za Mei smiled. 'It is like playing games to the children. Balancing games, games where they must walk silently, or stand still for a time. Later, they learn to move, twist away to avoid bumping into things, learn to move in a dark room. By the time they are seven, they are agile and quick. They also play counting games and remembering games. As I said, Zu Lan has always enjoyed training young ones. She will rejoin the three of us if Talani chooses to travel through Chaban and will have to stay away for a few days, but I doubt that will be frequent at first.'

Tika studied her. The same dark hair, dark skin and dark blue eyes as her sisters. 'May I ask how old you were when you left your Isles for Chaban?' she asked.

'I was fifteen years. Za Tek and Za Fen were one year younger, and Zu Lan was twenty six.'

'Do you really not wish to return to your Isles?' Essa asked softly.

'No. When Zu Lan accepted the contract to protect Tupalla and invited us to join her, she told us we would probably never return. This we all understood.' After a moment she explained a little more. 'When a warrior reaches the standard we three attained under Zu Lan's tuition, we have a choice. Abandon all our years of training, all our skills, and return to our communities, or submit to taking a protecting contract. Most such contracts are for life. Many traders, merchants, lords, ask for Zukarab guards. Because we are the best,' she finished simply.

'Za Mei was kind enough to show the children the walking quietly game and keeping still. Also some different twisting and stretching exercises,' Essa said. 'She spoke with Seko, Telk, Jarko and Fedran of different things to do. We were most impressed, Tika.'

'Poor Jarko left the Isles too early. He had barely begun the first steps of training and his parents did not long continue to train him when they fled to the mainland. Not his fault, but I am sad for him. He is quick to learn, that is clear. He could have become an excellent warrior.' She looked directly into Tika's eyes. 'Could you cure Queen Tupalla?' she asked.

Tika sighed. 'I could strengthen her heart, give her a few more years, a very few, but she asked me not to. She is tired of the pain, Za