The Dragon’s Song

Chapter Eleven

The rest of the day was spent celebrating Pa’s elevation within the Leather Makers’ Guild—and his newfound ability to hear a dragon’s silent speech. Amid the festivities, I also spoke with my parents about some of my plans for the two weeks I had before reporting to the capital for training.

“I think I’ll visit Uncle Lance and Grandmother,” I said as we headed back to the house. “It’s been too long since I’ve seen them both. Besides, I’m sure they’ll be glad to hear the news of our family’s promotions.”

Pa, energized by his achievement, had already taken Lilasia’s measurements for a new saddle and travel gear to use on the journey to the capital. He was also reveling in the simple joy of conversation—finally able to speak freely with Lilasia, Bellisama, and Solvon without needing someone else as a bridge.

“I think that’s a wonderful idea, dear,” Ma said as we stepped into the foyer. “Mother will be happy for the company. And since you’ll be traveling on dragonback, you can even return the same day if you wish.”

Uncle Lance had already been an adult when Grandfather was promoted to General of the quadrant, and at the time, he’d chosen to remain behind in Watersus rather than uproot his growing business. His woodcarving had long been admired—delicate, beautiful pieces that found homes far and wide. Though he never attained the title of Master, his work had thrived, and in recent years his sons had taken over much of the business while Lance eased into semi-retirement.

These days, Uncle Lance amused himself by carving small toys and trinkets for children: whistles, animals, spinning tops. He never charged for them, though families often paid him in sweets. That suited him just fine—he’d always had a sweet tooth.

It will be nice to see Grandma Genevieve, Lilasia said in my mind. Shall we go tomorrow?

“That sounds like a plan.”

The next morning, Lilasia and I set out for the village of Watersus. Though small, it had its own charm, nestled near the forest so Uncle Lance and his sons never had to go far for their materials. Only one or two dragon-and-warrior pairs were stationed there, since it was farther from the border and not considered a place of danger.

Flying with Lilasia stirred a tide of memories: her first awkward attempts at flight, learning how to carry passengers, and the joy of soaring together above the patchwork fields. It felt as though we were on top of the world, watching towns and villages drift by beneath our wings.

As we neared Uncle Lance’s house, Lilasia trumpeted a clear, ringing note to announce our arrival. Below, I spotted Uncle Lance and two of his sons stepping out of their workshop, while Grandmother slowly rose from her rocking chair on the porch. Aunt Giselle emerged as well, wiping her hands on her apron.

My uncle and cousins stayed at a respectful distance as Lilasia landed, her wings stirring up dust. I braced myself, then slid down her side and dropped to the ground, where Grandmother, Aunt Giselle, and Uncle Lance hurried forward with warm greetings and enveloping hugs.

“Missy, we are so happy you came to visit us,” Grandmother said, her eyes shining with tears. “And you too, Lilasia.”

Thank you for the warm welcome, Grandmother, Lilasia replied into their minds. Though she was a dragon, Grandmother treated her no differently than a human grandchild.

“Well, don’t just stand there,” Aunt Giselle said with a smile. “Come inside, and I’ll set tea and snacks on the table. Lance, dear, fetch some apples from the cellar for Lilasia. She’ll want something sweet as well.”

Dragons were fond of fruit from time to time, though their diets were mostly meat. Lilasia stretched herself comfortably in the courtyard while Uncle Lance brought out the apples, and soon we were all seated around the table, enjoying the spread Aunt Giselle had prepared.

It was then that I shared the news of Mother’s appointment as General and Pa’s elevation to Master.

“Blessed be,” Grandmother said proudly. “To have two Generals in our family line is a rare honor. Watch yourself, Missy—you might be next.”

I laughed at the thought. “I’m only just starting my career, Grandmother. If that happens, it’ll be years from now. Besides, Cousin Tyler may beat me to it.”

Tyler, two years older than me, had been chosen by a shining, crystal-colored dragon named Analese. I’d met her briefly before Tyler left for training in the capital—her scales were the clearest and most dazzling I had ever seen. Tyler was very lucky.

“So, who is taking the captain’s post now?” Uncle Lance asked. “And will your mother have to move to another town?”

“Actually, the King granted her leave to stay in Susanna since it’s so centrally located,” I explained. “Her replacement as Captain is the very messenger who delivered the orders—Curtis Mitchell, with his partner Jessalinda.”

I told them what I knew of Captain Mitchell’s history and mentioned John Pillard’s objections to his appointment. Then, lowering my voice, I added, “And get this—Seth Pillard has been banished for disrupting the choosing ceremony.”

Gasps of shock answered me; such disruptions were virtually unheard of. “He objected to Lilasia choosing me as her partner,” I explained.

“Then he received the punishment he deserved,” Grandmother said gravely. “Lance, you must ensure Seth Pillard doesn’t try to bring trouble here.”

“As village leader, I’ll see to it,” Uncle Lance agreed with a firm nod. “We don’t need that sort of trash in Watersus.”

I went on to tell them of Pa’s new gift—the ability to hear dragons for the first time in his life. Their faces lit with amazement.

“This family is blessed indeed,” Aunt Giselle said, her voice full of pride.