Dragon Courage Series books 4-7: Dragon Courage

By Kandi J Wyatt

Ever wanted to be a dragon rider?

Duskya's children are growing up and having children of their own. The heritage of dragon riders runs strong in the family, but not all of them have dragons. 

Nevertheless, they must discover their own way in the world.

Facing their own fears and the world's harsh realities, Carryn and Mere must come to grips with who they are and where they fit in the world of dragon riders.

Dragon Courage Series books 4-7 puts all the action of four books in one place. Read half the series in one setting.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kandi J Wyatt
• Release date: Jan 30, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215781173

Kandi J Wyatt

Even as a young girl, Kandi J Wyatt, had a knack for words. She loved to read them, even if it was on a shampoo bottle! By high school Kandi had learned to put words together on paper to create stories for those she loved. Nowadays, she writes for her kids, whether that's her own five or the hundreds of students she's been lucky to teach. When Kandi's not spinning words to create stories, she's using them to teach students about Spanish, life, and leadership.

Book preview

DRAGON COURAGE

BOOKS 4-7

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KANDI J WYATT

Copyright, 2023

Contents

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DRAGON’S CURE

DRAGON’S POSTERITY

DRAGON’S HERITAGE

DRAGON’S WINTER

More From Kandi J Wyatt

DRAGON’S CURE

Book 4 of Dragon Courage

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Kandi J Wyatt

United States 2016

Copyright 2016 KANDI J WYATT

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 Unported License.

Attribution — You must attribute the work in the manner specified by the author or licensor (but not in any way that suggests that they endorse you or your use of the work).

Noncommercial — You may not use this work for commercial purposes.

No Derivative Works — You may not alter, transform, or build upon this work.

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Cover Design by MiblArt

Edited by Christina Lepre

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This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to similarly named places or to persons living or deceased is unintentional.

Acknowledgments

It’s hard to believe that the Dragon Courage series is almost finished being published. A year ago, Dragon’s Future, released. Since then, I’ve made many friends and met many fans. I am still amazed at the reception the books receive. However, none of these would be in print if it wasn’t for a wonderful team of people. First and foremost is my editor, Christina Lepre. Every time I work with her, I am amazed at how she can take my humble words and make them sound like an author’s. Reading my words in print floors me. Even with a great editor, a third pair of eyes is necessary. Sheri Williams stepped up to work with us to make Dragon’s Cure the best it could be. Her proofreading skills have been invaluable.

The saying don’t judge a book by its cover is never heeded. The cover is the door to the story. Especially with middle grade and young adult books, the door must be left wide open for the reader to enter. Thanks to Yosbe Calma, our readers gain an enticing view of Dragon’s Cure. Thanks, Yosbe, for putting up with my bumblings to find just the right look for Mertenia, Serena, Carryn, and Tyrell. Special thanks goes to Pam Labbe for working with me to market the Dragon Courage series and to help create the blurb for the book.

Even bigger thanks go to all of you, my fans. Thanks for reading. May you find the ability to set aside any bitterness you may be holding inside you and find the freedom of forgiveness. I know the road is tough and it’s hard to do, but it is well worth the effort. May your dragon fly true!

To Dawnya,

because without you there’d be no Duskya

Contents

Acknowledgments

Contents

Chapter 1: Tell us a story

Chapter 2: I hate him!

Chapter 3: Go away

Chapter 4: Where's the little girl?

Chapter 5: Can you keep a secret?

Chapter 6: I'll kill him!

Chapter 7: Let's start over

Chapter 8: Home, what's that?

Chapter 9: Your da isn't that way?

Chapter 10: Honored Riders

Chapter 11: Did Ma ever see Tyrell again?

Chapter 12: Things are not safe

Chapter 13: You'll be safe with me

Chapter 14: I'll take care of her

Chapter 15: I hate Tyrell!

Chapter 16: Things are not safe in Boeskay

Chapter 17: Why does my heart still ache?

Chapter 18: We will help you look for Serena

Chapter 19: You think yer someone special

Chapter 20: Then we take the dark path

Chapter 21: No human will be treated like that

Chapter 22: Your spirit will be broken

Chapter 23: Which will it be?

Chapter 24: I'm your mistress, now

Chapter 25: I'd like to take down the system

Chapter 26: We would come help

Chapter 27: The healer's proclamation

Chapter 28: We must leave, now

Chapter 29: You're still a slave

Chapter 30: Will you forgive me?

Chapter 31: What Happened to Tyrell?

Chapter 1: Tell us a story

Duskya had just finished washing the noon dishes and had put the kettle on for tea. She loved this time of day, when Cerulean would head back out to work with the new younglings, and she was free to relax. Although she had seen sixty-eight winters, her body still looked as if she had not seen a day over twenty-six. Her mind and her stamina were the same as the day she had helped her twin brother fight the turquoise dragon rider, Kyanos.

The kettle had started to hum when she heard the sound of children's voices. She had wondered who was out running around today. It was a true delight to see her grandchildren at her door.

Surprise, Grandma! two little towheaded children yelled.

Why, Mere and Glen, welcome. Come on in, Duskya said with pleasure as she held the door open. Where is your ma?

Glen turned around and pointed around the corner of the house.

Hi, Ma, Carryn called. Did we surprise you?

You did, Duskya said, giving her daughter a hug. Ruskya and your da would call me lazy. They think I should be more tuned in to what is around me.

You should, Ma, but I am glad that we were able to surprise you.

Come on in. I was just about to have a cup of tea, Duskya said. She caught the longing in her daughter's sense.

What is wrong, Carryn?

I’d love to stay, but I was wondering if you could watch the kids for a bit. I have an errand to run. Could we have that cup of tea when I get back? Then we could just sit and enjoy.

That sounds excellent. I can enjoy my grandchildren and my daughter.

Carryn smiled. Thanks, Ma. She impulsively gave her mother a hug. You're the best.

Duskya's heart was full. She still couldn't believe that her daughter had already seen thirty-eight winters. Where had the time gone? She could still remember the shock when Cerulean told her that Carryn could hear dragons and that Peri seemed to be a special one to her.

Ma? Carryn called.

I'm fine, she replied pulling herself back to the present. I was just remembering you as a little girl of five winters with curly hair and big eyes. You were so sincere when you told us about Peri.

Carryn laughed. Well, she is a special dragon—she's mine.

Duskya grinned.

Grandma, Mere called from inside the house, you said we could have tea. Come on.

Go on, Carryn. Enjoy your afternoon. I'll take care of these precious little ones.

Thanks. I won't be long. I want some of your tea.

Duskya watched her daughter walk down the path with her strong confident stride, and wondered at the mystery of fortune to have raised such a wonderful and beautiful daughter.

A little hand pulled on her own. Come on, Grandma, Glen said. Mere told me to get you. Will you give us tea and tell us a story?

She bent down to his level and tickled his tummy. You want a story?

He laughed, unable to talk, but Mere had rounded the corner and answered, Yeah, Grandma. Tell us a story! One ’bout riders and dragons.

Duskya looked them both in the eyes. Have I ever told you about the rider who didn't want to be a rider?

No! they both said in unison, their eyes wide in amazement.

Well, come have some tea, and I'll tell you.

They hurried inside. Duskya saw that Mere had already found the tin of tea and gotten it down. Even though she had only seen eight winters, she already had her great-grandmother's love of tea. Meredyth would have loved to know her namesake. A pang still filled Duskya's heart to think that her own ma was no longer living up in Woolpren. She had never met Mere, because she had died five winters before Mere was born.

A crash brought her back from remembering.

I’m sorry, Grandma, Glen said. I was just tryin’ to get the sugar down.

Duskya took in the mess, and realized she needed to bring her attention back to the present.

That’s okay, Glen, she told the youngling of five winters. Let me help you clean up.

With the help of the children, the cleanup went quickly. Duskya pulled out some cookies from the cupboard and placed them on a plate at the table. She put the teapot on the table, and sat as Mere brought the mugs over.

You said you would tell us the story about a rider who didn't want to be a rider, Mere prompted. Can you tell us now?"

Duskya smiled. That I can, honey.

She began to tell the tale.

Chapter 2: I hate him!

Serena worked her way through the fog that surrounded her head. A groan escaped her lips. Her legs hurt; her arms ached. Her ribs screamed at her. Come to think of it, every single part of her body hurt. She stretched and yearned to shield her ears from the noise. Belatedly, she realized it was her own voice screaming. She shut her mouth. Her eyes didn't seem to hurt as badly as the rest of her. She opened them to find herself on the floor of the cooking area, right where she had fallen. No—where he had left her.

Unfortunately, the memories started to return. Her father had come home early last night in one of his angry moods. How was she to know he would be home early? He had expected her to have his meal ready when he walked in the door. The words came then. Those didn't hurt; well, not as much. She could at least block them out. Try as she might, some of them still seeped through. Nasty words about her mother, who she barely remembered. Her mother, who had died to escape the pain her father had inflicted on them both.

The final blow came when she set the meal in front of him. It was not up to his standards. He threw it on the floor as he yelled at her, something about it being unfit for a man to eat.

If you were a man, she had screamed back, then you would have a job and bring home decent food to serve.

She didn't know how it had happened. One moment he was sitting at the table, and the next her face was looking at the opposite wall, the sound of the slap ringing in her ears. He probably would have stopped there, but something had snapped inside of her. When she spoke, her voice was cold and quiet.

A decent man would not strike a woman.

She saw the punch heading for her mid-section, but there was nothing she could do to stop it. As she doubled over, trying to get a breath of air, another blow hit her nose. She didn't doubt it was broken. At some point, she had passed out.

She ground her teeth together, trying to not scream as she moved her leg. Saying it hurt was an understatement. She looked down and found the explanation. The only usable chair was now unusable. It lay broken in pieces on the floor, its leg abandoned beside her. She decided to use what had been a weapon as a crutch. Slowly, she pulled herself up to a sitting position, and then to her knees, and finally up to the stove.

The stove was cold now. There wasn't enough wood to make a decent fire, let alone cook anything. She leaned against it, panting. The pain in her ribs reminded her to take shallow breaths. Looking around the room, she realized there was nothing left for her here. She would leave. She could find a place in the woods south of Boeskay. She could live out there. It might be cold, reason told her, but she answered it, Not any different than here.

Walking carefully, she moved to her room and gathered a few belongings. A blanket worked as a pack. Placing a couple changes of clothes inside it and a hairbrush, she set it over her shoulder and headed out. Walking out the door of the abode she had called home for the eighteen winters of her life, she didn't look back. She wasn't leaving much behind.

She didn't breathe easily until she was out of Boeskay. She had been afraid someone would find her and stop her, or worse, tell her father. Yet, nothing happened. She was free. If her leg weren’t so sore, she would have danced with joy. Instead, she just stared up into the blue sky and thanked fortune she was alive and not dead like her mother.

The thought of her mother didn't bring tears to her eyes. Instead, it brought with it hatred for her father. Her mother was dead because of him. If Serena had stayed, she too would be dead.

I hate him, she said quietly. Then more loudly, I hate him. I hate him. I hate him! Never again will I let anyone hurt me like that. Never!

With her vow, a calm came over her. She walked south, wondering where she would find a place to stay. The thought of the river came to her. Maybe it would be better than the forest. There might be caves there to protect her from the rain that would come with the summer storms. The caverns would also protect her from the lightening. She headed that way.

Serena had never been to the caves, but she knew most people stayed away from them. Some said strange creatures protected them. She didn't believe those stories, which seemed designed to scare children from wandering in the area and getting lost.

The caves were larger than Serena had expected, and she found that they meandered all along the riverbank.

At first, she stayed close to the outside edge. Since she didn't have many things with which to furnish her home, it didn't take much to set up house in a small cave. She found a stump to use as a chair, a larger hollowed stump for a table, a nice rock for a candleholder, and another rock that worked as a ledge for her hairbrush. Over the next few days, she created a comfortable home.

Her resolve to stay in the cavern almost gave out after the first two days, when she had no food and no way of starting a fire. She almost returned to the abode she had known all of her life, if only to get her father's flint and steel. Fortune shone upon her, though. She had started back to Boeskay when, beside the river, she found a fire had been built the night before. Some wanderer had used the spot for the night. Her fear of being discovered was driven away by the sight of a still smoldering stick. Picking it up gingerly, she shielded it from the breeze and took it back to her home where she lay it in the fire pit she had constructed.

That had been the turning point. From then on, she had scavenged for food near the river and never looked toward Boeskay. She was accustomed to going without food; so, here where she could find something to eat at least once a day, she grew stronger.

Chapter 3: Go away

As her stay grew longer, Serena started to explore her home. She used a charred stick for marking her way, knowing it would be suicide to get lost in the maze of caverns. Saving the grease from the fish she had caught and from small animals she snared, she created a torch of sorts. It helped light her way through the dark recesses of the caves.

It was in these explorations that she began to wonder about the stories she had heard of creatures that protected the caverns. She had never believed the stories before, but now that she lived there, she decided she should know for sure. As she explored, she would occasionally hear noises that made no sense. There were scratching noises as well as huffs and puffs. These noises didn't sound like any animals she knew. Then there was the whoosh of air leaving a small area with a lot of force. When she heard those sounds, she avoided those areas.

Now that she was exploring the caverns, she was decorating her bare stone walls by drawing a map of the caves. The map was extensive, as it included every place she had seen. Taking care not to miss a thing, she took her time filling it out. The places where she had heard strange noises were marked on her wall map, too. Each day, the map grew to encompass the area she had explored the day before.

One afternoon, she went exploring and found a passage that led her to the higher reaches of the caverns. She had not been this high up before. So far, there were no strange sounds to warn her away. After what seemed like ages, she came to what appeared to be a dead end. Disappointment filled her.

Why did I travel all this way for nothing? she asked herself.

Her voice echoed off the walls, loud in her ears. She shut her mouth. A current of air caught her hair and pushed it away from her face. She paused. Someplace, air was getting through. She held the torch up to see better. The air caught the torch, and it flickered. Looking closely, she found an opening. It was very small, but seemed to open up slightly. Taking a deep breath, she squeezed through the crack. The crack made an abrupt ninety-degree angle, and then opened into a large cavity.

The sight of the creatures before her took her breath away. Tons of dragons crowded the huge cavern. On second glance, she corrected herself.

There's not tons of them, and they aren’t full grown. These are babies! she whispered to herself.

About thirty baby dragons played, slept, and sat around the cave. They were various shades of blue, blue-green, and bluish-purple. A sensation of being watched filled Serena. She glanced around sharply, but no one was in sight. The baby dragons seemed to have missed her entrance. She watched for a few more moments, until the feeling intensified.

Glancing around more carefully this time, she found the culprit. A purplish baby dragon was staring at her. The dragon was slightly larger than the others in the cavern. He seemed to have an intelligent look on his face. No, she corrected herself—her face. For some unknown reason, she knew it was a baby girl.

She decided to mark that spot on her map. She had been surprised to see the dragons. Of course, she had seen riders in the market in Boeskay, but never had she seen their mounts. She had noticed dragons flying high above in the sky, as one would notice vultures or eagles flying. This was the first time she had seen them up close.

Suddenly, a thought struck her. If there are babies, there will be mothers. I'd better get out of here.

She turned to leave, but as she did, her eyes caught the purplish-blue eyes of the baby who was still watching her. There seemed to be intelligence in those eyes, almost a wisdom beyond their years. Serena shook her head and squeezed back through the crevice.

The next morning, she marked the spot on her map, and in the afternoon, she continued exploring, but with greater caution. She now knew what protected these caverns—dragons. For the next several days, she stayed lower down in her explorations, but several times, she felt as if someone were watching her. She looked around, but no one was there.

I'm going to go crazy if I stay here alone much longer, she told herself. It never bothered me before. I'd be alone days on end, happily.

She didn't want to think of the reasons why she enjoyed being alone so much. The fact was, the moment her father came home he would go into his rages and beat her. She blocked the thoughts from her mind. She had left that behind. Never again would she let someone treat her that way.

About seven days after finding the baby dragons, Serena again explored a little higher up than usual. She had felt that same tingling sensation that someone was watching her. No one was around, but the feeling became so intense that she turned back. All through the evening, the feeling was with her. She almost couldn't sleep for fear someone would come in during the night and hurt her, as her father had, but somewhere in the middle of the night, the feeling disappeared, and she slept.

The next morning, she ate breakfast and debated whether she should move from the cave. She decided to stay a bit longer. She picked up her charcoal stick, and began to mark her explorations from the day before.

After working well for quite some time, she noticed the feeling again. It had started slowly and grown until she was aware of it. Looking around expecting to see nothing, as she had so many times before, she jumped when her eyes came to the doorway to the rest of the caves. Staring at Serena with wonder in her eyes was the little purplish-blue dragon.

How did you get here? Serena exclaimed before realizing the animal couldn't talk back to her.

She turned back around and decided to ignore it, although the thought of its mother still nagged at her mind.

A soft girl's voice spoke, Don't worry about mother. She does not check up on me anymore. I am old enough to be on my own.

Serena spun around, expecting to find that a person had walked through the doorway. No one was there but the little dragon. Shaking her head, she went back to work.

I'm going crazy, she whispered to herself. I'm hearing things.

She worked in silence, but not peace, for a while more, before the voice spoke again.

What are you doing there? Is that the dragon crags?

Serena ignored the voice and continued to work. She must be going crazy. Only crazy people heard voices in their heads.

Well, aren't you going to answer me? the voice continued. I know you can hear me, because you think you are going crazy. I am not in your head; I am sitting over here looking at you. You looked right at me, so I know that you know I’m here. Please, just turn around and look at me. There was a pleading in the voice that Serena could not ignore.

Almost against her will, she turned away from the wall. She didn't know what she expected, but it certainly wasn't the same empty room. Well, empty except for a baby dragon sitting in the doorway.

Who are you? Serena almost yelled.

The baby dragon cringed; Serena didn't care. She was starting to get frightened. She had promised herself she would never again get into a situation where she was out of control. This didn't seem dangerous, but it was unknown. She had learned to fear the unknown.

Please, do not yell. I can hear you just fine, even if you don't speak out loud, the voice said.

Serena was tempted to ignore it; perhaps it would go away. She was in the process of turning around, when she caught the look in the little dragon's eyes. It was an intelligence beyond words, a knowing beyond its age; it was as if the dragon was speaking to her.

At the same time, the voice spoke again. Please, do not ignore me.

She stared into the eyes, trying to decide what to do. It was then that she really saw them. They were a deep bluish-purple, the color of the flowers on the bushes on the edges of town. She had always prided herself on reading people's eyes. Her father's eyes always warned her, before his actions or words did, that he was in a foul mood. These eyes were kind, not quite innocent, but not having lived a lifetime either. They were sharp eyes.

No, she said out loud, you are a dragon, the same as a vulture, a deer, or a rabbit. You cannot be talking.

There, you are wrong, the voice continued, and the eyes looked hurt. Dragons are intelligent beings that have feelings and thoughts. You need me, just as much as I need you.

No, that is not true! It isn’t! Serena said, completely ignoring the last comment. I do not need anyone. I am fine on my own. Just go away. Get out of here. Now, go away!

With a final piercing look, the dragon turned saying, I will leave for now, but I will be back.

Serena sighed in relief as the dragon disappeared from view. She was free from that creature. No, she couldn't say that. It had not harmed her. It was just so strange that it thought she needed it.

She went back to drawing, but her mind was still on the little dragon. Her purple eyes haunted the peace Serena had felt. After a moment, without real thought, Serena moved to a different spot on the wall and started to draw. She went through the first charred stick and moved on to another, and then another. When she was done, she stepped back and looked at what she had done. Where had that come from, she wondered. What stared back at her was a lifelike replica of the purple dragon.

Why did I do that? she muttered. Now it will haunt my waking hours as well as my sleep.

Yet, she did not have the heart to destroy her work, so it remained.

Several days passed without her seeing or hearing from the dragon. She avoided any passage that led upward or held even the faintest possibility of dragon sounds. The tingling sensation that she had noticed that first day remained, but she didn't seem to notice it. It had become a part of her.

One morning the tingling intensified. It did not surprise her, then, to look up and see the dragon standing in the doorway.

Hi, she greeted it, feeling awkward and foolish.

Hello, the girl's voice answered.

The dragon sounded surprised that Serena had even acknowledged her. Serena almost felt guilty for how she had treated it before—no, her.

Do you have a name? the dragon asked.

Serena stared at the little dragon, debating whether to answer the question. What right did this creature have to know her name?

What right do you have to know mine? the dragon replied.

Serena shook her head. It’s a bit disconcerting when you answer my unspoken questions.

I am sorry. I did not mean to cause you trouble. I am still new to this. I have only spoken with Cerulean.

Cerulean? Serena asked, as fear started to work its way up her spine.

He is the one who helps the nestlings and the hatchlings. He is like a father to us.

The picture of her own father came to Serena's mind, and she saw herself on the floor in her abode. She shivered. She never wanted to meet this man.

No! the dragon shrieked. "That is awful. Cerulean would never do that. Your father did that?"

Serena jumped as if she had been slapped.

Stay out of there! Vehemence made her voice sound like a snake’s. You will never do that again. Do you understand?

I am sorry. I-I, the baby dragon faltered. I am sorry.

Serena's breathing slowed. She was not in her father's abode. She was safe in the home she had created. She looked around. Her eyes landed on the dragon, and their eyes locked. No words were spoken, but the sorrow and the compassion that emanated from the dragon’s eyes was enough to melt Serena's heart a bit.

I’m sorry, she said. I shouldn't have yelled at you like that. My name is Serena.

Serena, what a beautiful name! It fits you, somehow.

Hmph, I have never thought so. It means ‘peace.’ I have never had or known peace, until maybe here.

The dragon seemed to nod. My name is Mertenia.

Mertenia, Serena repeated. That’s pretty. I think it fits you, too, but I don't know why.

A soft crooning noise filled Serena's mind. She realized it was the dragon. She was happy.

Thank you. Do you mind if I stay with you today? Or are you going to send me away again?

Serena debated. Don't tell me I need you. And I don't want anyone to come looking for you, she shivered, thinking of the man named Cerulean.

He won't come looking for me. I don't know why you think he will harm you, as this other man has done. He will leave you be.

You said he is a father. That is what father's do. They punish their children for what they do wrong.

Mertenia seemed to shake her head, but Serena would hear nothing of it.

If you are going to remain, Serena went on, you will not argue with me on this.

Mertenia didn't agree, Serena could tell by the look in her eyes, but she didn't say anything further. Serena sighed; at least, it was a start.

What dragon is that? Mertenia ask with surprise.

Serena felt her face grow hot. Where? she asked, trying to hide her discomfort.

On the wall. You drew a dragon, but you said you had never seen one before. That is so lifelike. I almost expect it to come at me off of the wall or even to speak to me.

I haven't seen any other dragons, other than the babies in the cave where I first saw you. I drew this after I told you to leave. Her thought continued, although she did not speak it aloud, I did it to get you out of my mind.

Did it work? Mertenia asked quietly. Did you get me out of your mind?

Would you get out of my thoughts? Serena raised her voice.

The dragon looked quizzically at her. What do you mean?

Serena sighed, I do not like that you can come into my head and hear what I think.

But that is how I talk. I do not open my mouth, like you do. I hear and speak all conversation in my head. I didn't know there was a difference. I am sorry.

Serena raised an eyebrow. The thought of not having to speak out loud to communicate had never occurred to her before.

Really? she thought. You can hear me even if I am not speaking?

Of course, silly, Mertenia replied without any break in the conversation. It is how dragons speak, not only to their riders, but to everyone.

Serena sat on the floor, stunned. She didn't realize that she was sitting with her back to the drawing so that the baby dragon was watching over her shoulder.

I like that thought, Mertenia replied.

What thought? Serena asked, confused.

Me watching over you.

Serena snorted. A lot of good that will do me. You can't harm a flea!

A puff of smoke escaped the little dragon's nose. Never underestimate a dragon, Serena.

Her voice was low and appeared threatening. Serena almost believed her.

Have you never heard stories of dragons and the power they have?

Of course, I've heard the tales, but how much of the tales are true, Mertenia? Usually, a tale grows in the telling. Besides, riders seem to be a different class of people. That has nothing to do with the dragon. It is the rider.

You are wrong. The dragon is what makes the rider, not the other way around. A full-grown dragon can take out any army. At Serena's disbelief, she modified her statement. Well, with several passes of breathing fire, and as long as the arrows don't penetrate the wings.

They actually breathe fire? Serena said in awe. I thought that was just a myth made up to frighten people.

Instead of answering, Mertenia walked into the cave. Serena watched with a bit of trepidation. What was this little dragon going to do? Mertenia walked straight to the fire pit, which was built under a vent in the roof. It had taken Serena several attempts to find the right spot, where the smoke would not drive her out of her own room. Stopping a few spans from the pit, the little dragon bent her neck down to the level of the wood and then opened her mouth a little. A small stream of purplish-blue flames erupted from her mouth. It did not last long before it sputtered out, but it was enough for two things. First, the wood caught fire. Second, Serena understood the sound she had heard up in the caverns, and she shivered. As the dragon had blown fire on the wood, it had created a small sound similar to the whoosh sound she had heard in the distance and wondered about. It was not as loud as the others, but it was the same sound.

You are shocked, the little dragon stated.

Well, yeah, Serena answered. I am thinking of the same sound, only louder, that I heard in the caves. That must have come from a larger dragon. She paused as a thought struck her. She voiced it, How big do dragons get?

That depends on how old they are, Mertenia replied.

Well, how old do they get?

Up to five hundred winters.

Serena let that soak into her thoughts. Five hundred winters was a long time.

The day passed agreeably between them. At night, the little dragon returned to her nest. Serena was afraid someone would come looking for her, but no one did.

The days fell into a pattern. Mertenia would appear sometime after Serena had eaten her morning meal. They would spend the day together, playing or exploring the caverns. At night, Mertenia would return to where the other dragons were.

After a time, it became second nature for Serena to think of something to share with the dragon and vice versa. One evening after Mertenia had returned to her nest, Serena thought of something to ask her.

I guess I'll have to wait until morning to ask her. Serena thought to herself.

Wait to ask me what? the little dragon's voice filled her mind.

She spun around, looking for the dragon. Seeing nothing, she turned a full three hundred sixty degrees, searching.

What are you looking for? Mertenia asked.

Where are you? Serena said, her heart pounding.

I am in my nest, silly.

Immediately, as if in answer to her disbelief, Serena saw the cavern just like she had seen it the first time. This time, though, Mertenia was curled up with her head on her tail with her eyes partially closed. Serena blinked, but the image stayed there. It was almost as if she was seeing it in her mind.

How, what? Serena sputtered. Stop! she finally shouted.

The image went away.

Thank you. Now, please explain.

What do you wish me to explain, Mertenia's voice was as real as if she were sitting in the doorway. What do you not understand? You could have done this before, a moon ago, if you wanted to.

Serena took a deep breath. How did you hear me? She enunciated each word with care, making sure the meaning was absolutely clear.

The same as always. We are not bound by space or time. We will always be able to communicate with each other, Serena. You are my rider. Riders and dragons bond.

The darkness enveloped Serena. A frog far off by the river croaked. Serena did not reject Mertenia’s statement, but she didn't like it, either.

Will you still let me come see you tomorrow? Mertenia asked with hurt in her voice.

Yes, Mert, I would miss you if you didn't come. I just don't like being told what I need. I don't like feeling helpless. You keep doing that to me.

I don't mean to. But when I do what I think is normal or natural, it seems to scare you.

Well, yeah, Serena answered. You all of a sudden transport me to a different place and the vision won't go away. You expect me to be calm?

A sound Serena had never heard echoed through her mind. She realized it was Mertenia laughing! Serena started to chuckle. She saw the humorous side—what she had looked like jumping out of her skin and in a complete circle all at once. After a few moments, she calmed down.

Thanks, Mert. I needed that. I think I can sleep now.

Good, then I will wish you a good eve.

You too. Sleep well.

May fortune shine on you, Serena.

Serena fell asleep contemplating that blessing. Fortune. What was fortune? Did it come to a person unasked, or was it something that a person brought upon themselves? Her father always said that anything a man got came because of his hard work. Then again, her father also beat her if she didn't give him his meal on time.

Fortune was a slippery thing. She would let others decide how it worked. She just hoped that it would shine on her, one day.

Chapter 4: Where's the little girl?

Cerulean came out of the back room to find his daughter eating a snack at the table.

Where has my little girl gone? He thought.

Nothing seemed to remain of the youngling who had looked up at him so trustingly and said, This one sounds different. Carryn had already seen fifteen winters. In another three winters, she would be a full-fledged rider. A thought struck him, and he acted on it.

Hey, Carryn, he said, as he walked toward the table, what would you say to a trip down to the hatchling cavern with your da?

Carryn looked up and smiled. Oh Da, it's so noisy down there. All those hatchlings and nestlings are constantly chattering. It's too much.

Cerulean hid the disappointment from his face; he knew he couldn't hide it from his wife Duskya, who looked over at him and sent him an encouraging thought.

Oh, all right, he said to Carryn. I guess I'll have to endure their fluttering hugs on my own.

He walked over to give Duskya a hug, but Carryn stopped him.

Da, she called and waited for him to turn around. I love you.

His heart melted. There was something in her expression that reminded him of his little girl. It wasn't her eyes—three winters ago they had turned periwinkle, like her dragon. It must have been the way she looked up at him.

I love you, too, honey.

He gave Duskya a hug and a kiss.

Don't worry about her, Duskya said. She'll be okay. She just needs to try out her independence.

I know. I just wish it didn't have to be so hard or so early. It seems the younglings are pushing for it earlier and earlier.

Maybe because she has been a youngling for the past ten winters.

Cerulean grinned. I'll have to remember that when a youngling pushes for independence. Maybe we should not have a set age for youngling graduation, if their beginning time varies from one to another.

Hm, that's an idea. Go have fun with those little rascals.

I will. He assured her and gave her another kiss before he walked out the door.

***

Duskya turned to Carryn, who was washing her dishes from her snack. They really did have a good daughter.

Ma, Carryn said, as she finished the last of the dishes and turned around, Tyrone is going flying. Can I go with him?

Understanding dawned in Duskya's mind. I see. Tyrell is going with him; I suppose?

She was rewarded with a slight blush on Carryn's cheeks.

"Well, yeah. Tyrell is his youngling."

Mhm. You told your da that the hatchling cavern was too noisy. Yet you had this planned all along, didn't you?

Carryn hung her head, then lifted it. "The hatchlings are noisy, Ma. They're like little children."

Yes, but that wasn't why you didn't want to go with Da. You owe him an apology.

Yes, Ma, Carryn said, regret showing in her voice.

I suppose since Tyrone will be with you, you can go.

Thank you, Ma, Carryn exclaimed throwing her arms around Duskya.

Duskya smiled. She didn't remember having much interest in boys at Carryn's age, but there had been a few. Mostly, she had admired from a far. The boys she liked were too afraid of her twin brother to come calling. That is, until Cerulean. She smiled. He had almost been too afraid of her.

Go have fun, dear, but remember to be back for the evening meal. Your da still wants us to eat together.

Yes, Ma. I will, and if I'm late, I'll call to either one of you.

Duskya knew how much Carryn disliked communicating through thoughts. Even as a child, Carryn had pushed away Cerulean and Duskya's attempts to speak with her that way. For her to agree to this, it meant she must really enjoy the presence of a certain youngling. Duskya would have to talk with Cerulean about him.

***

Once out the door, Carryn started to run. She didn't even bother with the stairs but cleared all three in one bound. She was off to go flying with Tyrone and Tyrell. Coming within sight of Tyrone's abode, she slowed to a walk. She didn't want Tyrell to get the wrong impression.

Peri was waiting behind the house. Carryn walked up to her and gave her a hug.

Hey, big girl, how're you doing?

I'm fine. It's you I'm worried about. You seem to have your head in the clouds.

What do you mean? Carryn asked, confused.

Tyrell, was all Peri said.

Carryn playfully slapped Peri. You're just jealous.

Jealous of what? Your time or your thoughts?

Or maybe you wish there was some young dragon around.

Hardly, Peri said offended. I want a mate for life. Whomever you find had better have a good dragon. I want to do as Cerulean and Duskya.

Carryn stopped and thought about it. Was she ready for that? She didn't know, but today she would enjoy a flight with a very attractive young man who happened to be a bit older than her.

Tyrell's voice greeted her. Hey, Carryn, are you ready for a flight?

Yeah, she replied, feeling slightly giddy. Get a hold of yourself, she thought.

Tyrone should be here soon, but will you go for a walk with me afterward? I'd like to have some time without Tyrone hanging around. Perhaps we can get to know each other a bit better.

Sure, Carryn answered.

She felt a little awkward about the suggestion, because her ma thought she would be with Tyrone, but a few minutes couldn't hurt.

The flight was everything Carryn thought it would be. Tyrone was conservative in flying, but he let the two younglings race their dragons. Carryn and Peri won two of four races. When Tyrell had won his second one, he called for an end to the races. Carryn felt a little disappointed, but she didn't let it show. She knew Peri was the faster flier of the two dragons. All too soon, Tyrone said it was time to head back. Her disappointment was tempered by the thought of taking a walk with Tyrell. That would be interesting.

Before you go running off, Tyrone called, when they had landed, make sure your dragon is wiped down.

Yes, Tyrone, Tyrell said and rolled his eyes at Carryn.

She had to stifle a laugh. The look was funny, but she didn't feel right laughing at Tyrone. He had been there for all of her life. He was her father's right-hand man. She pushed the thought aside and picked up a rag to wipe Peri down. This was normally one of her favorite times with Peri, but today, there was no communicating with her dragon, because Tyrell kept up a steady stream of conversation.

Finally, Tyrone said, Well, I need to go see your da, Carryn. Can you make it back to your abode on your own?

Again, Tyrell rolled his eyes, but this time Carryn ignored him.

Yes, Tyrone. Thank you for asking. I'll be okay. We'll finish up here, and I'll head home.

Then, I bid you good day, Carryn. Tyrell, I'll see you at meal time.

Yes, Tyrone. The youngling’s voice dripped with sarcasm and at the same time managed to show enough respect to avoid being reprimanded.

When he was out of earshot, Tyrell threw his rag into the bucket and said, I'm done. You didn't forget about going for a walk, did you?

No, Carryn said as she continued to wipe down Peri.

Well, I didn't think you would lie to my trainer.

I didn't. I said we'd finish up here. Part of finishing up was the walk I promised you.

Tyrell grinned. I like how you think.

Carryn smiled. You do?

Yep, now let's go for that walk, he said as he took the rag away from her and threw it into the bucket.

At the same time, his dragon lifted off into the sky. Carryn gave Peri a nod, as she turned and followed Tyrell.

Where are we going? Carryn asked.

A place that I like to go when I want to be away from Tyrone.

What do you have against him, Tyrell?

Nothing, but don't you ever need time away?

Sure I do, but you seem to make fun of him.

He still sees me as a youngling. I‘m ready to be out on my own. He doesn't think that, but I’ll show him. I'm ready. In just a few more moons, I’ll have my own place. I wish I could do it now, but I know the other riders will object because they’ll listen to Tyrone’s suggestion and not let me go.

Besides that, there’s the fact that what you do will set a precedence for other younglings. I think you should wait the couple of moons.

Will you keep me company for those moons?

Haven't I always?

Well, sure, he said, but he didn't seem convinced.

He led her toward the bluff overlooking the river. The path wound downward and soon became very steep. At one point, Tyrone stepped down and turned to help Carryn. He took her hand to steady her, but as the path widened out, he didn't let go of it. Carryn felt her heart speed up. It was almost the same feeling she had when she first flew Peri. She was surprised that Tyrell couldn't hear its beating.

He led her to the edge of the river. There he sat and, letting go of her hand, began to take off his tall leather boots.

Come on, Carryn. The water will feel good. It's warm today, and after the flight, I know I need to relax and cool off.

Carryn laughed and sat down. She rolled up her trouser legs and unlaced her high leather boots. Slowly she pulled them off along with her socks. Careful and afraid of the water being too cold, she placed a foot in the river. With a sigh, she put the other one in and leaned back on her hands with her feet dangling.

I told you it would feel good, Tyrell said, leaning back beside her.

I haven't done this since I was a kid, Carryn said. It does feel good. I'll have to remember this.

Well, we could make it a habit to come here after a flight, Tyrell suggested looking over at her.

That might not be a bad idea.

Carryn, Tyrell said, his voice low and husky, what would you think of doing more things together? As I said, I would like to get to know you better. I don't think that can be done with Tyrone always hanging around.

I . . . Carryn faltered.

Sh, he said, placing his finger over her lips, just think about it for a bit.

He let his fingers move from her lips to rest alongside her cheek so that his hand cradled her face. His thumb caressed her chin. Ever so slowly, their faces drew together. It almost felt as if he was pulling her to him. Suddenly, she realized that he was going to kiss her. The image of her parents kissing before her da left for the hatchling cave flitted through her mind.

Her hands seemed to move with no command from her brain, for her brain still was letting her be drawn into a kiss. Her hands settled on Tyrell's chest. She shook her head. Tyrell came toward her, even though she had stopped moving.

When he didn't stop, she said one word, No.

She said the word softly, almost not at all. At first, she was afraid Tyrell hadn't heard and she would have to say it again, but then he stopped.

What do you mean, 'no'? he asked, his hand still holding her face.

He tilted her head to look him in the eyes.

Carryn took a deep breath and said, No, Tyrell. This isn't how it should be.

What do you mean? he asked. His eyes looked hurt, as if she had slapped him.

We shouldn't be down here. My ma thinks we are with Tyrone.

Tyrell threw his hands up in the air. I thought you said you wanted to get to know me more. How can we get to know each other with adults hanging around telling us what to do or not do?

Carryn was almost in tears. Her voice didn't want to work, but she tried anyway, forcing the words out.

Tyrell, if this is what you mean by 'getting to know each other', then it is not what I want. I thought you meant we would talk about our hopes, dreams, and who we are.

Fine, he said, almost shouting the word. You can just stay the little girl then. I thought you were ready to move on from being a youngling. I was going to bring you with me into the adult world. I guess I was wrong. I'll find someone else who is ready to go with me into the new world of being grown up.

He bent down, picked up his boots, and stalked off. Carryn placed her face in her hands and sobbed. What had happened? Where had she made a mistake? Slowly, her sobs subsided. She withdrew her feet from the river and let them dry in the warm air. Then, she put her socks and boots back on. Carefully, she rose.

Someone was there.

Chapter 5: Can you keep a secret?

Now that Carryn’s mind was clear, she sensed something odd. There was a dragon near, and not just any dragon—it was Mertenia. Her da had said something about the young dragon disappearing during the days. She decided to find out where she went.

Turning toward the bluffs, she followed the little dragon's presence to a cave entrance. Carryn glanced around and went inside. She wasn't afraid of the caverns, because she could always call to a dragon to help her find her way out. They knew the caverns as well as she knew her abode.

Following Mertenia's sense, she rounded a corner and stopped, surprised by what she saw. Before her sat a girl with long blonde hair. She was slender and appeared as if she would be tall when she stood up. Because the girl's back was to Carryn, she couldn't tell the other girl's age. Mertenia was sitting there having a conversation that Carryn could not hear.

Slowly, the other girl turned around. Since no shock registered in the girl's presence, Carryn realized that the little dragon had told the girl about her.

What are you doing here? The tone was of one addressing a burglar.

I came because I knew Mertenia was here, Carryn said, gazing into the girl's deep purplish-blue eyes.

Carryn tried to keep the shock from showing, but she knew it was registering on her face.

What do you know about Mert? Huh?

Carryn vaguely wondered if the girl could just talk in a normal tone. Maybe it had something to do with her age. She seemed to be a few winters older than Carryn, roughly the same age as Tyrell. He sometimes came across as demanding.

Well, what do you know about Mert?

I . . . Carryn started to say, but emotions came over her.

She saw the whole scene play before her. The mother dragon lay on her side, breathing heavily. Da had come for Carryn in the middle of the night and woken her up. He needed her help with an egg laying. The cavern and the mother dragon's moans faded from her mind, as the girl brought her back to the present.

You what?

I was there for her laying. We almost lost her mother, but she pulled through. Since then, she and I have been somewhat close. Lately, though, I haven't been coming down to the hatchling cavern.

There was a silence. Carryn realized that the girl was checking with Mertenia. When had Mertenia chosen a rider? Where had this girl come from? These questions flitted through her mind.

So, I assume you're going to go off and tell all the riders that I'm down here,

Why would I do that?

Well, the riders would obviously want their dragon back. I'll give her up, but I would like to keep my home.

You're living here? Carryn asked, glancing around a little more carefully and noticing signs of an abode.

Yeah, what's it to you?

Carryn held up her hands. Nothing. I just was surprised; that's all.

Well, it's my home for now.

I see. I'm curious why you think the riders would take Mertenia away from you.

She's not mine. She just happened to come by one day and then wouldn't leave.

She's not yours? How can you say that? You have the mark of a rider on you.

The girl recoiled as if Carryn had struck her.

What do you mean?

Your eyes are the same color as Mertenia's.

No they’re not. They are blue, like the sky, the girl replied.

Carryn sighed. If I had a mirror I could show you, but they aren't blue anymore. I can't tell when they changed, but they are purplish-blue now.

You're crazy. I don't know what game you're playing, but you can't trick me. I know what color my eyes are, and they haven't changed. You can't force her on me; the riders will want her back.

Well, come take a look at my eyes then. Tell me what color you see.

Slowly, the girl rose and cautiously came toward Carryn. The lighting was not good in the cave, but it was sufficient to see Carryn's periwinkle eyes. Carryn was pleased to see the girl's reaction. She didn't quite recoil, but she definitely stepped back in a hurry.

So, where'd you get those color eyes? she asked, trying to not show her emotions. Does it run in your family?

Carryn shook her head, amused at the girl's stubbornness.

My mother has silver blue eyes. My father has stormy eyes, a greenish-blue blend. My uncle has icy blue eyes, and my grandmother has normal blue eyes. My great uncle, I don't know how far back, has royal blue eyes. Now as you can see, none of those would blend to make periwinkle. My eyes changed, as did my mother's, father's, and both my uncles', when I was young. They are the same color as my dragon. I am a rider.

The girl stepped back further.

My point isn't to scare you, Carryn said trying to calm the girl. It's to show you that the riders won't want her back, as you put it. I would enjoy having Mertenia in the hatchling cavern, but she belongs with you.

No! The word flew out from Serena’s mouth like fire from a dragon’s maw.

Please, Carryn, a soft voice called, please, don't upset her. Let me talk with her.

Mertenia? Carryn whispered. Is that you?

Yes, please, I have worked hard to get her to accept me. Do not undo all my hard work.

All right, little one. I wouldn't hurt you; you know that.

Carryn saw the look of surprise on the girl's face.

You heard that? she asked in shock. But, she paused, how?

I can hear dragons—all of them. I can also sense where they are. Some call it a gift. Sometimes it can be a curse, and often it gets me into trouble.

She thought of adding, ‘like now,’ but she didn't, for Mertenia's sake. There was silence as Mertenia communicated with the girl. As she did, Carryn observed her. She was tall, as Carryn had first thought. Her long blonde hair was pulled away from her face, held in a ponytail by a piece of string. Although she was slender in build, Carryn saw that she was also not eating enough. The bones at her wrist were very pronounced. In this lighting, she also noticed scars along her arms and legs, and a bruise around her eye. Darryn hadn't gotten into a lot of fights, but there had been one, and Carryn had learned then what a black eye looked like. This girl definitely had a black eye.

After a time, the girl turned to Carryn. Mert says I can trust you. She says that you won't make me leave or even tell the others I'm here. I don't know. Can you keep my secret?

I would be honored to keep your secret. I don't understand the need, but I will not tell anyone you are here. I am just glad that Mertenia found someone to be her rider.

Would you quit saying that! the girl said, flinging her blonde ponytail over her shoulder.

I’m sorry. I didn't mean to offend. Here, why don't we start over? Pretend I just walked in the cave. Hi, my name's Carryn. Nice to meet you.

Carryn, huh? My name is Serena.

Serena, that’s a pretty name.

It never helped me any. Carryn heard the girl mutter under her breath.

Even so, Carryn said, it is a nice name to have. Unfortunately, it’s probably past time for me to get back home. If Ma starts looking for me, your secret won't be safe. I'd better go. It was nice to meet you, Serena, and even if you don't like it, I'm glad that Mertenia found a friend.

Friend, I can handle, Serena stated. I don't know about the other thing. There will have to be some more convincing before I will believe that I'm a rider. It was nice to meet you Carryn.

Can I come back later?

Why? Defiance blazed from Serena’s purplish eyes.

Because, there really are no girls my age around here. My only other friend just disavowed me because I wouldn't let him kiss me. So, I’d like to have someone to talk to.

I can't guarantee I'll be a good person to talk to, but I suppose if you want to, you can visit again.

Good; then I'll see you tomorrow, if I can get away. Do you want me to tell Mertenia that I am coming so she can tell you?

That would be good. Then we won’t be somewhere off in the caverns when you come.

Okay, then. Good eve, Serena.

***

Serena gazed at Carryn’s departing back. Shaking her head, she turned to Mertenia.

"What is it about your kind? First you, and now that girl, claiming that