The Dragon’s Song

Chapter Four Ma

My hands trembled as I bent down to pick up the golden scale, holding it with reverence. I glanced at the royal decree.

To Julia Berkshire,

I, King Ronald II, hereby declare to all that you have been promoted to General of the 7th Quadrant. I trust this honor will be to your liking, for I have received nothing but excellent reports of your command in the village of Susanna. I know you will carry the same strength and leadership into your new role.

Sincerely,

His Majesty, King Ronald II

Affixed to the bottom of the page was the king’s official seal. Behind it was a second sheet, a personal letter written in the king’s own hand.

Dearest Julia,

I hope this letter finds you well. I know this may come as a shock, but I can think of no one better to continue the great work your father began as General of the 7th Quadrant.

The messenger before you will serve as the new Captain of Susanna. I ask that you introduce him to your people and guide him in his duties before you must report to the capital. Susanna will remain your base of operations, as it was for your father. Its central location makes it ideal, and I know of your deep bond with the villagers.

I also extend my condolences for your father’s passing. He was a great leader and a dear friend. At court, he often spoke with pride of your accomplishments, even at such a young age.

With your promotion, Bellisama will join the 7th Quadrant’s Dragon Council, along with her mate, Solvan.

I look forward to your first report as General.

Sincerely,

His Majesty, King Ronald II

“What is your name, Captain?” I asked softly, still clutching the golden scale.

“I am Captain Curtis Mitchell, at your service, General. My partner is Jessalinda.” He clicked his heels and saluted crisply.

I returned the salute, acknowledging my new role.

A sudden trumpet of joy shook the house as the dragons outside bellowed in celebration. Inside, shouts of congratulations filled the air. My husband had turned away, but I knew by the set of his shoulders that he was crying. He understood how long I had worked toward this day.

“I suppose this red scale now belongs to you, Captain Mitchell,” I said, looking down at the scale I’d carried for five years. “But let’s make the official handover at the Choosing. It will give the villagers a chance to welcome you properly.”

“You’ll get no argument from me, General,” Mitchell said with a grin. “You know these people and dragons better than anyone. I imagine some of the local warriors were hoping for the captaincy themselves, so I’ll be grateful for your introduction.”

I also give my condolences on the passing of your father, a new voice spoke in my mind—gentle as the wind. I knew him in my youth, at court. He was always courteous with us dragons, always kind, always encouraging.

I bowed my head to Jessalinda, the young dragon outside. She couldn’t be much older than Lilasia.

“You must be her first partner,” I said, turning to Mitchell. “But you look to be in your thirties. Forgive the bluntness—others will wonder the same—what makes you qualified as captain with such a new bond?”

“No offense taken, General,” he replied. “I was Captain of a legion of foot soldiers before this. I fought alongside dragons often. On my last campaign, I was injured, and while recovering I met Jessalinda. She carried messages to the front, and we became friends. When she was called into battle, she sang her song—and I heard it. Despite doctor’s orders, I mounted her and together we rescued over a hundred of my men trapped behind enemy lines.”

“That is quite the story,” I said, studying him. “I believe you—but others may not so easily.”

“The king anticipated that,” Mitchell said evenly. “But Jessalinda and I would choose no other. What began as chance has become a bond we’ll never regret. The king himself sanctioned our partnership. He thought serving under your command here would help us both find our footing.”

I nodded. “The king always has reasons for his choices. I won’t question them now. Allow me to make introductions. This is my daughter, Melissa—Missy, for short. She will stand for the Choosing today. And this is my husband, Mark, the local leatherworker. If you or Jessalinda ever require gear or armor, he is the one to see. My partner is Bellisama, and beside her is Solvan. His family will meet us at the schoolhouse.”

Mitchell bowed politely. “It’s a pleasure to meet you all.”

“Ma,” Missy interrupted, tugging at my sleeve, “we need to get going, or we’ll be late.”