Dragonbound: Birthrights (Book 2)

It was tense as Kiaran and Davin sat across from Arrimen. He drank from his tall glass, his eyes nearly closed. Davin was in awe at his similar appearance to Kiaran. They both had high cheekbones, their jaws were angled perfectly, and their eyes were piercing and shaped with perfection.

“Why is it that you want your son in Avestitia rather than with you?” Davin asked. “Why don’t you take him, yourself?”

“My reasons are my own,” he said coolly, though there was an underlying bite in his words. “It is meant for you and Ryker to bring safety to the people who live under the ruling of the mages. It is up to you to break the tyranny and he is to put an end to the war. There is no room for me.”

“What are you talking about?” she tossed a hand into the air. “I am not here to cause a war, but to find answers,” she spat.

“I am giving you answers if you’d just listen to me!” he growled. Her mouth tightened and he said, “Sterjia is an evil queen with an evil magic inside her that has tainted the land around her. It has even leaked into Trindal. People are all turning to magic and using it nastily. The only sort of clean magic there is would be healing. There are mages and there are healers. And even most healers are evil in disguise. They can heal, but only if it benefits selfishly. That is how magic is. It is nasty and for the dark of hearts.

“Not only is it bad, but it is dangerous. You may be able to fight anyone in the world, but against magic, that is something you cannot fight. They can control your thoughts, your actions, or they could make your heart burst while still inside your chest.”

Kiaran shot her gaze to Davin who returned the anxious look. “I don’t think we are so willing to start this rebellion. We just ended our own a year or so ago,” Davin said slowly.

“It doesn’t matter,” he shrugged, “If you neglect your part in this, it will only push the process down the road. It will be done.” He stood, sitting his drink on the table. “It is your destiny and that does not change. Somehow...one way or another, you will begin this Mage War. But this will be a good thing for the people of Trindal and Trindal-VinCar, and everyone else for that matter.”

“And your son has a major part in it as well...” Kiaran said lowly. The two stood with him and she slowly stepped toward him. “Arrimen,” she said, locking eyes with her older brother. “Why are you so quick to send your son with me? You hardly know me.”

“I know you more than you think,” he replied. “I had spent the past several years inspecting you from my dreams. I could read your eyes and I could gather quite the information from them...” He glanced to Davin and said, “You see it too, no? You can read her eyes; why else would you be at her side?”

Davin’s brow lowered and before he could reply, Kiaran said, “Are you sure this is the right way to go about it?”

He nodded and answered, “It doesn’t make it any easier. But I know it will happen regardless. One day, Ryker will be in Avestitia, and I’d prefer that he’d go with someone I trust.”

“It is dangerous,” she breathed. “I could see his talents...but how is he with combat?”

He laughed and shook his head. “He should gain a couple of inches before he’d be of any worth.”

She considered for what felt like an eternity before hesitantly nodding. “...I will do it,” she said very quietly. “But...I am not going directly to Avestitia when we leave Urlanai.”

“He is a good boy and will prove himself worthy,” he replied in some relief. “I will take you and your friend to my home tomorrow. Allow me one more evening to explain things to my son.” With that, he bowed, thanked her, and left.

Kiaran lied in her bed, her hands folded and resting on her belly as her eyes stared blankly at the ceiling above her. It was dark, the room growing hot from the summer weather that was dreadfully setting in. She kicked the blankets off her body, the air stifling.

Davin slept in the floor, half way onto his stomach with his knee pulled up slightly. The pile of blankets were bunched up from his constant tossing and turning. His shirt was only buttoned halfway up, his hair a mess and his pants wrinkled. He looked awful.

Sitting up, she knew she would never fall asleep. She slid off the edge of the bed, sitting on the cold floor. Her back was pressed against the side of the bed, her hands flat on the floor to her sides. Her knees were drawn to her chest, her naked toes curling in.

The warmth of Davin’s body radiated onto her as she sat inches from him. The scar on his shoulder was deep where it stretched across his breast, disappearing beneath his shirt. It rose slowly with his steady, deep breathing.

She rested her chin on her knees as she watched him. The blue moonlight bled in through the window beside them, pouring over him. His dark hair was wild and she wanted to tame it, but her hands remained paralyzed.

The deep, unfamiliar feeling in her stomach made her ill. It was a sensation that she didn't like. It was new and almost painful.

Finally, she forced her hand forward, pushing past the unwanted feelings. Gently, she pushed on the arm that was slung across his face. She tapped harder when he didn't wake, whispering, “Davin, wake up.”

“What?” he grunted under his breath.

“Take my bed, I can’t sleep,” she said, her voice still soft.

“Why?” he flopped his arm to the side as he shifted to his back. His eyes were still tightly closed. She inhaled deeply and looked aside. She could feel a heat creep up her cheeks.

“Just get in the bed and sleep, Davin. You look like shit,” she muttered.

After several seconds, he finally sat up. Rubbing a hand across his face, he groaned as he stretched. His shirt draped open, his wounded shoulder hanging out. The scar was nasty and mangled his shoulder badly.

Her brows lowered. Davin was lucky he hadn’t lost his arm to that bear. He opened an eye and looked at her. Her body grew tense and she tore her attention from it.

Looking to his shoulder, he pulled his shirt back on and used the bed to pull himself up. “I won’t argue you,” he grumbled as he slid into bed, passing back out.

Her throat closed in slightly as she sat alone, staring at the blankets he was just sleeping on. She could feel the bed jostle against her back as he shifted. Exhaling her unease, she spread the blankets back out and lied on them.

Her heart raced. That decision she had just made earlier in the day...it was a bad one. One of her biggest fears was to have children. There were times in Kamoni she wanted to stab herself to insure she’d never have a child with that monster...and yet she never did it.

When the opportunity arose for her to have a child in her care, she snatched it up...Ryker was to go with Kiaran to Avestitia and she was to teach him, train him...Basically, she was to raise him.

She had to wonder what Davin was thinking. One of the things that kept her from marrying anyone was the requirement of being a mother. Once that was out of the way, she had nothing to hide behind anymore. It was possible he felt betrayed by her choice—but that was so long ago. Besides, he had admitted that it was not thought out...He didn't really want her, did he?

She sat back up and stood on her knees. “Davin,” she said softly, her hands resting on the edge of the bed. She hoped he wouldn’t wake and she could just lay back down, but he turned to her, his dark eyes melting into her. She opened her mouth to speak, but nothing came out. Her long hair fell down the side of her face and she ran a hand through it.

“What?” he asked. “Are you alright?”

“I...” she smiled, feeling foolish. “He is to old for me to mother him, you know.”

He lowered a brow, as if confused. “Oh,” he lit up, understanding her comment finally. “Why are you worried about that? You are his aunt and you’re taking responsibility for him for a while.”

She nodded her head in uncertainty and he could see it. “Alright,” she nodded again.

He leaned up and asked, “What is bothering you?”

“I am scared to do this. I should have told him no,” she blurred out.

He smiled sweetly as he forced himself to sit up, his legs hanging off the edge of the bed. “Take your bed back, Kiaran. I will tell you a story.”

Hesitantly, she sat sat on the bed. Scooting back, she lied on her back behind him, propping her head on the pillow. He turned and leaned his back on the headboard of the bed. One leg stretched ahead of him, the other hanging off the edge. She watched him as he massaged deeply into his scarred shoulder.

“There was a young girl that lived in the kingdom's smallest village. Her mother often sewed her new furs to wear in the wintertime and her father had taught her to hunt as well as any man. In the winter, she was the most valuable villager. Every time she stepped into the forest, she could hunt enough meat for the entire village." As he told his story, Kiaran eyed him. It was strange. In all her years, she'd never been told a bedtime story.

“For years, she did this, until the village had a group of people visit. They were from the castle, wearing expensive clothing and carrying heavy purses. The guards seemed distraught as they asked for the doctor of the town for assistance.

“The young girl’s father was the closest thing to a doctor—And he was quite good at it. He came to the carriage in the center of the small caravan. The villagers watched from their windows, some standing outside their homes. The guard opened the door, and inside was a man bleeding to death. He was nearly torn apart and was dying fast. The father leapt inside and began to work.

“As he was doing that, the daughter was on a hunt. Once she had returned to the village, she was shocked to see the people crying and the guards stepping away from the carriage in horror. The young girl’s mother was screaming as she stared into the carriage.

"She pulled her last arrow from the quiver and strung it to her bow as she ran to her mother. Her eyes landed on something awful.”

Davin’s eyes moved to Kiaran as she watched him intently. “Inside was the father, his hands on the young man. Blue light shone from the wounds as the skin from the father ripped off of him and replaced the young man’s missing flesh. Her father screamed in pain and so did the young man. Her arrow was pointed to the stranger in the carriage. All the time, her heart had burst and was swallowed by a burning fear...” His eyes dug into her as he ended, “Does she shoot the young man or does she trust her father?”

Her brows drew low. She waited for him to continue, but he didn’t. “This is not how you end a story,” she retorted. “It is not up to me how it ends...How is this a bedtime story?”

He smiled and said, “Either way she loses something great.” She paused as he continued, “If she did not trust her father, she would have killed the man and her father would have died from his own wounds at that point. However, she dropped her arrow, crying. The young man was healed and her father fell dead.

“The young man was the prince of their kingdom and, to repay the man for his sacrifice, he asked to marry the young woman. With her spirit and her broken heart, she refused...Every year, on the anniversary of her father’s death, that prince would always come visit her. He’d wash her and her mother with gifts and thanks. And finally, she agreed to the marriage. The King was infuriated with his engagement and threatened to cut his ties to the throne. She was a woman hunter from the smallest village in the kingdom. It was...unbecoming.

“The choice for this young girl was to continue into the marriage or to give him up so he could keep his position as prince. Again, she could lose either way...”

She stared at him and said, “I don’t believe I like this story.”

He laughed shortly and replied, “The point is that every decision has good and bad consequences. There is no need to regret the one choice that you didn’t make. The choice that you did make is the important one. The young girl chose to let her father die. I would suppose that she regretted that choice. But if she chose otherwise, she might have regretted letting the good prince die. You can’t live on regrets, but you must live on what you’ve done. Go with what is given to you.”

She watched him curiously. Did he make up the entire story, or was it something he had read before? “The young girl...What did she choose?”

Shaking his head, he said, “What would you have her choose?”

“I don’t know,” she grunted. “I suppose she should go with her heart. That is how most stories go, is it not?”

“To that young girl, her life isn’t a story. What would she truthfully decide?”

It was odd; all stories have endings, and yet this one didn’t. It was a strange way to present a tale, but she somewhat enjoyed it. Perhaps, he was right. No matter what she chose, there was always going to be an unknown result. She may as well embrace what she had decided and move on with it.

Her lids were heavy and she readjusted the blanket over herself, trying to ignore the closeness between them. Davin sat up and took his place back in the floor. Before she realized it, she fell asleep. It was such a deep sleep that it seemed she’d never wake up. Her nerves kept her stomach in knots nearly all night.

Finally, it was morning, and they had their things packed. Kiaran sat in the chair, staring at her pack that rested on the bed. Her coat was unbuttoned and her boots sat to the side. Her mind grew distant as she gazed blankly.

Davin opened the window, the wind rushing in. It was obvious that she was in deep thought. He leaned against the windowsill, the sun on his back. Folding his arms across his chest, he watched her. “Are you ready, Kiaran?” he asked softly.

She flinched, darting her eyes to her boots. She slowly pulled them onto her feet, buckling them in place. It was unsettling to think of her mother baring a child before her. She had an older brother. She could remember reading about protective older brothers in stories. It would have been nice to have Arrimen with her in Kamoni.

Perhaps he would have been a better older sibling than she ever was for Grace...

The thought left her feeling heavy and numb. Instant fear swallowed her--What if she allowed death to take Ryker from her? She couldn't be trusted with this.

Her body was hesitant as she stood. Sighing, she buttoned her coat and snatched up her pack. Pulling her arms through the straps, she faced Davin.

There always seemed to be an expression of compassion on his face, ever since the moment they met. Kiaran stared at him. She was displeased with that. The last thing she wanted was for him to feel sorry for her. There was no reason for anyone to take pity on her—she was a strong woman. And yet...she felt as weak as a toddler.

Her brows lowered and she finally said, “Let us go. Arrimen is waiting for us.”

She turned around, but Davin remained motionless. The warm wind pushed past them and she froze, her back to him. “You do not have to do this,” he reminded her.

“I know,” she said.

Her hair was in two balls of braids on the back of her head, side by side. A few thin strands of beads and hair fell out of place, swaying in the soft breeze. Her hair was beautiful, and he wanted to touch it. He knew it was soft and craved for it to be in his hands. It seemed to taunt him, knowing that soon enough, he’d be alone once more.

Her head turned, her eye looking over her shoulder at him. “If I pleased, I could simply have someone more suited care for the boy in Avestitia,” she added. “But my brother asked me to keep him, and I shall do that.”

Clenching his jaws, he stood and swooped an arm down, picking up his pack. Then, they were off to find Arrimen.

They walked down the street, the chatter of people filling the air. As they passed by the alleyway, she saw the ladder hanging off the roof of the building they sat on during the celebration. She smiled a little, thinking back to Davin's fear of the spider. She chuckled slightly and he looked back at her.

“What is on your mind?” he asked.

“Oh,” she smiled, “Nothing.” She gripped the reigns of her horse as it walked behind her, carrying her supplies.

She turned her attention to the town around them. It seemed somewhat similar to any ordinary country. Either the magic was hard to spot or it was well hidden...Perhaps, this town had no mages in it at all.

Finally, just ahead of them stood Arrimen. The dragon was still perched on his thumb, clutching tightly. They rushed to him and he led them to a small road that weaved into the thin woods just outside the town. No one spoke a word until they were in the forest.

“So, what brought you to Trindal, anyhow, King Holloway?” Arrimen asked.

“There are a few reasons. Rather long stories,” Davin replied.

“We have quite a walk ahead of us, please, tell me,” he pressed.

They explained a bit of what they’ve discovered and some of their ideals.

“So,” he stopped, looking to Kiaran, “you are on a quest to stop Sterjia?”

“Aye,” she nodded. “If that is the only way to end the curse, yes.”

“This is certainly going to start the Mage War,” he said. “She is the most powerful mage to ever exist and she is bursting with evil and nastiness. I wish you luck, you will need it. However, if you go to Trindal-VinCar, be careful. For the magic there tends to have a more aggressive style rather than here.”

The road was long and curved like a snake, seeming to take them into an infinity of woods. Finally, a narrow—nearly invisible—path led off the road into the green woods.

They followed Arrimen until they saw a small cottage in the distance, steam rolling from the chimney. The smell of cooking meat filled Kiaran’s lungs and she smiled. Food sounded nice. She looked to Davin who appeared very cautious.

A small, brown dog dashed across the grass at them. The trees were tall and thin, covered in vibrant green moss. The little dog barked happily at Arrimen as he pat him on the head. The little dragon darted away, flying to the house and out of sight.

Arrimen stepped onto the wooden porch and rested a hand on the door knob. Facing them, he said, “For my own reasons, do not tell him that you are my relative. Who knows how it could end if someone were to find out the queen of Avestitia has a brother in Trindal. They may even try to take advantage of the fact that there is a royal healer. Keep this a secret between just the three of us.”

“Understood,” Kiaran nodded.

“Also, you may keep here tonight, and then continue on your journey tomorrow if you don’t mind.”

“I was thinking if I couldn’t just take him to the border and send him with my dragon to Avestitia,” Kiaran replied, “That way he will be kept out of danger.”

The man laughed, confusing Kiaran and Davin. Shaking his head, he opened the door and they entered. The house was comforting and inviting inside. Small paintings hung on the walls and the doorways were framed with beautiful wood.

Kiaran stopped to admire one of the paintings. It had a purple night sky overlooking the green hill speckled with white dandelions. Atop the hill stood a woman from behind, her hand locking with a young boy’s hand. He held one of the dandelions as the wind took off with some of the white fuzz. It was breathtaking.

Davin paused with her, also drawn in by the beauty of it. It was unusual and had low detail, which only made it more dream-like. It was soft to look at, making it all the more inviting.

Arrimen looked to them and smiled. “Ryker is talented, is he not?”

“He did this?” Davin awed.

“Perhaps he could work as an artist in Vintar,” she suggested.

“Come,” Arrimen said as he stepped into the room beside them. Kiaran walked through the doorway. The smell of food hit her like a wall and her stomach flipped. The small room had a few chairs around a table with a bowl of apples. At the mantle, a massive pot boiled with food.

Arrimen opened the window and shouted outside, “Ryker, Kiaran is here.”

He stood up straight, closing the window once more. The door that led outside swung open and the small boy walked in. He looked to Davin curiously. Then, he nodded and said, “Welcome, Lady Kiaran. Davin.” Ryker looked between the two, his cheeks flushing slightly. Facing his father, he stood erect, his arms flexing at his sides. “Father, I am to leave with them tonight?”

“Tomorrow,” he said. “Tonight we rest and we can say our goodbyes tomorrow.”

He nodded and faced them once more. He bowed for a short second then trotted off. The boy moved to the food, stirring it thoughtfully.

“He is rather short to be an adventurer,” Kiaran mused. Ryker’s striking eyes shot to her and she smiled at him. He reddened even further and he faced his food again, sitting on the stool.

“He will grow,” Arrimen assured her. The adults sat at the table, to continue the conversation. He looked to his son, his eyes soft. “Ry, why don’t you go and ready your things? I need to speak with them privately.”

He nodded and darted through the doorway, around the corner, and up the stairs. “He is young, are you sure we should bring him with us?” Kiaran pressed. “I can return on my way back home, or I can send him with--”

“He is to stay with you,” he said each word with emphasis, his eyes locking onto her. “You question everything and put faith nowhere,” he added. “Trust me, my sister. It is best to keep him with you.”

“Can he fight?” Davin asked.

Arrimen laughed, his eyes squinting as his smile spread across his face. “No, not so well. He is clumsy and awkward. But he can learn.” He pointed toward the scar that reached up Davin’s neck, saying, “I can see that wound on you, and you rarely move that arm though it is your dominant. I’d say you’ll be more of a burden than my son.”

Davin’s brows lowered, and Kiaran grinned. “I can use my other arm as well as my right,” he retorted.

“I don’t believe he cares,” Kiaran cut in.

“So, he is a healer?” Davin asked.

“The best,” he nodded.

“I am sure there are downsides to this healing power...?” Kiaran asked. Nothing this good could come without a cost.

He shrugged a shoulder, leaning back in his chair. “He hasn’t shown any signs of weakness. Perhaps it feeds off his balance and that’s why he can’t use a sword.” He ended with a hearty laugh.

The room was small and warm, presenting a lovely coziness. There was a heavy thump in the floor above them and they heard Ryker’s voice shout, “I’m fine, I only tripped.”

Arrimen sighed and shook his head, his eyes closing. “My son is very sheltered. I knew no one around here, and once he began showing signs of his talents, I refused to let others know of it. It is dangerous; too many people would use him for their own benefits. This will be his first time leaving the home for more than a day--other than the night we found you—and the first he will be without me. Kiaran, take care of my son. I trust him in your hands.”

“I’ll keep him safe,” she nodded.

His eyes narrowed slightly and he said, “You will.”

Suddenly, the little blonde boy poked his head around the corner, a hand on the door frame. His vivacious eyes looked to his father and he said, “Father, I am packed.”

“Did you get your extra boots ready? You will need them. And your books.”

“Aye,” he nodded, his eyes darting aside. He inhaled, saying, “I forgot those.” He slinked away, his feet padding up the steps.

Kiaran’s lips curled into a soft smile. It was the sort of smile she had while around Fargo when she first met the Zeil. Her fingers moved to her coat where the tattoo over her heart hid. She missed that old man.

“Well, shall we eat and then get ready for bed? I am sure you have a big day tomorrow,” Arrimen said as he stood.