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The Power of Ban
The Power of Ban
The Power of Ban
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The Power of Ban

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The Power of Ban is the exciting conclusion to the Trilogy of Ban series. Prince Coaldon is joined by Topple the Wizard and Marko the Dragon to wage war against the evil wizard Crossmore. The Power of Ban is a feast for the imaginative mind. The climactic ending is unexpected and action packed.

You can expect wholesome values, exciting adventures, intelligent text, and fun entertainment.

LanguageEnglish
Release dateAug 27, 2013
ISBN9781301301874
The Power of Ban
Author

James Harshfield

James Harshfield is an author with the magical touch of crafting great fantasy. His creative imagination and diverse writing skills contribute to his success as an author. The fullness of his rich life experiences provides substance to the content of his writing. James has bachelor, master and doctoral degrees. He successfully writes in the genre of fantasy and spirituality.

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    The Power of Ban - James Harshfield

    Ancient Book of Lands

    Roga of Tanz

    2321 bk

    Prologue: A Passing Shadow

    The shadow of a large creature rapidly moved across the courtyard in front of the Chapel of Hope. The silhouette's long neck and tail added contrast to its large wings and narrow body. At first, Brother Andrew took little notice of the fleeting image passing across the ground. The small, thin monk was dressed in a long, brown robe with a red sash tied around his waist. His hood was pulled over his head to help reduce distractions. His head was bowed in devotion as he gazed intently at the prayer book clutched in his hands. The normal routine of monastic life did not give him the prerogative to interrupt his daily prayers.

    As the sight of the shadow slowly pierced his awareness, the monk was torn between his obligation to continue praying and his desire to investigate the odd oc- currence. It was difficult for him to break from his meditation, yet the extraordinary passage of the image across the ground challenged his ability to concentrate on the Holy Scriptures.

    His curiosity became so intense that he could no longer deny the shadow's existence. Then, with reckless abandonment, he lifted his head to examine the source of the disturbance. At first, the monk was spellbound by the creature he saw gliding over the monastery. He knew from ancient pictures that the creature was a dragon. Even more uniquely, he saw a bird perched on the dragon's head and a rider on the creature's back.

    The monk thought to himself, I must be dreaming! There is no such thing as a dragon!

    Out of disbelief, he once again lowered his head to continue reading. Then an explosion erupted from a hidden part of his being. Reality could not be denied. The sight of the creature was proof of its existence. Without thinking, he leaped to his feet, stared at the dragon, and yelled, To arms! We are being attacked!

    This alarm did not go unheeded. A bell began to ring, and a rush of feet raced from all directions. The Warrior Monks of the Monastery of Toms were preparing for battle.

    The Monastery of Toms was the home of an ancient religious order founded before the time of written history. The Order was established to protect the Empire from the invasion of heathen sea-people from the East. After defeating these invad- ers, the monks isolated themselves in the wilderness of the Outlast.

    The Monastery was built in the center of the Outlast Wasteland to protect it from the corruption of the outside world. It sat on the top of a hill that was sur- rounded by cliffs and a bleak and barren labyrinth of unending canyons and gullies. Many travelers had died from starvation after becoming disoriented and lost in the baffling maze. This isolated location helped maintain the purity of the monks' contemplative lifestyle.

    The Monastery consisted of a cloister, a cathedral, a dining hall, classrooms, barns, shops, and storage sheds. From the Monastery, a view of the village, lake, and farmlands spread out in splendor.

    The excited monks watched the magnificent creature swooping over the cathedral. The sight of the dragon created fear in the hearts of the monks and an instinctive desire for self-preservation. The need to defend their sacred home from the unknown threat of the dragon consumed the monks' thoughts. Several archers began shooting arrows at the intimidating animal.

    The dragon and its riders were surprised when a hail of arrows began to whistle past them. The dragon made a sudden veer to the right and flew out of range of the lethal assault. It then made a slow descent and landed on a hill overlooking the Monastery.

    As these events played out, Abbot Hugh slept peacefully in his small room. Sleep was a major interest in his life. It was not unusual for the kindly, rotund abbot to fall asleep at the most unexpected times: dinner, prayer, and meetings. Thus, most monks knew where to find the abbot when his presence was required. The arrival of a dragon was one such event.

    An agitated monk rushed to Abbot Hugh's room, pounded on his door, and yelled at him in a panicky voice. With sleepy eyes, the abbot staggered to the door to find out what could cause such noise and excitement. Opening the door, the abbot was nearly bowled over by an incomprehensible avalanche of words and waving arms. To place order to the confusion, he followed the energized monk out of the cloister and into the courtyard. Following pointing fingers and staring eyes, the abbot saw the reason for the explosion of concern.

    As the abbot stood transfixed, he was joined by four old friends: Lord Brad Rocknee; Ingrid, his wife; Starhood the Elf; and Ripsnout the Dwarf. Twenty years earlier, Lord Brad had been deposed as emperor of the Empire by Wastelow and Crossmore the Wizard. It was the mission of this group of friends to regain for him his rightful place as emperor. The small group had gathered at the Monastery to make plans for the final conquest of Crossmore.

    With a tone of astonishment, Lord Brad declared, This is a most unusual sight. Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined a dragon perched on a hill overlooking the Monastery. I believe there is more to this than just coincidence. The hand of fate is once again offering us a new resource in our battle against Crossmore.

    The others nodded in agreement, and Lord Brad continued, The dragon has not attacked, so I assume it is a friend. I suggest we send a delegation to the top of the hill and greet the new arrivals. Abbot Hugh, Ingrid, Starhood, and Ripsnout, please join me as a welcoming committee.

    From their vantage point in front of the Monastery, the monks watched as the small delegation casually hiked up the trail leading to the top of the hill. A cre- scendo of excitement erupted from the crowd when they saw a person appear from behind the dragon. The individual stood on the edge of the hill looking down at the approaching group. He then stared down at the Monastery. Upon becoming aware of the crowd watching him, he enthusiastically waved and then turned to talk to the dragon standing beside him.

    As the welcoming committee approached the top of the hill, the dragon released a billow of smoke and fire. A loud gasp of awe and wonderment rippled through the crowd of monks as they watched this spectacle. They waited in anticipation as the committee reached the summit and stood in front of the towering dragon. The observers were surprised when the lone individual, standing next to the dragon, rushed to embrace the ambassadors. The monks relaxed when this meeting looked more like a family gathering than a formal introduction.

    As the initial excitement of the dragon's appearance faded, the focus of the monks changed from surprise to curiosity. What new and exciting events were unfolding before their eyes?

    Cackles and Marko

    Prince Coaldon's dream was filled with images of war, death, and destruction.

    In his nightmare, row after row of ugly creatures attacked him with unyielding determination. His arms grew tired as his sword created mounds of bodies at his feet. As he struggled to escape the fighting, an inescapable surge of despair filled his spirit.

    The rapid bending and folding of his dream created an unsettling sense of grief and uncertainty. After what seemed like hours of battling his wicked opponents, he saw the blood-stained hand of Crossmore, the evil wizard, reaching for him. He turned to run but was unable to move. He watched in panic as the wizard's hand grabbed him. The poison of Crossmore's touch filled him with suffering and pain. The prince knew that the wizard would use any vice to destroy him and gain control of the Empire.

    As the night terrors attacked Coaldon, the young warrior tossed and turned in his sleep. Droplets of sweat beaded on his forehead as the power of doubt challenged his normally positive outlook on life. He was unsure how long he could continue the battle against Crossmore.

    Then, with a jerk, Coaldon awoke from his encounter with fear. The residue of the nightmare gripped his body with tension and held his mind in a state of alarm. Shaking his head, he slowly looked around the room. His attention was drawn to the soft glow of sunlight that filtered into the room through a skylight. The rays of the sun massaged and warmed his body with gentle strokes. As the young warrior basked in the healing power of sunlight, he realized that his unpleasant dream was only distorted images of his own insecurities.

    The young prince knew he could not allow negative thoughts to control him. He needed to depend on the Father of Life, not the false words of doubt. It was too easy to succumb to the bogus visions of fear.

    As the young prince glanced around the room, he questioned, Where am I? What happened to me?

    Then, with a burst of awareness, he remembered he was in the College of Magic located in the City of Mazz. He had entered the college with his friends to release Topple the Wizard from his healing process. The wizard had been cured of the wounds he received from Crossmore at the Battle of the Meadows. Coaldon then recalled the unbelievable experience of meeting Marko the Dragon for the first time. Coaldon had felt intimidated when the marvelous creature towered over him. Yet, despite the dragon's terrifying appearance, he was a gentle, kindly creature.

    Coaldon was brought back to the moment when he noticed an oversized bird sitting next to him. The large brown bird had rumpled feathers, white wing tips, and a crown-shaped tuft of gold feathers on his head. Even though the creature's body drooped under the weight of a long life, his red eyes gleamed with intelligence and alertness. The bird gave a loud, cackling call as he shifted his weight from one foot to the other.

    This was not the first time the bird had entered Coaldon's life. The eccentric creature often arrived to offer assistance during times of need.

    With a smug look of arrogance on his face, the bird declared, You have forgotten to pay me proper homage. Remember, humility is a virtue.

    With a twinkle of delight in his eyes, Coaldon fell to his knees and bowed to the bird in mock submission.

    Looking up from the ground, Coaldon said, Oh, great Cackles, I beg for your guidance!

    The large bird fluffed his feathers and spread his wings in a stately manner. After strutting around the area in an elegant fashion, the bird stated, I, Cackles of Dumpford, recognize you as my loyal subject. I will share with you the blessings of my flawless wisdom. Cackles added, By the way, your grandfather, Brad requests your presence at the Monastery of Toms.

    This interlude was interrupted when a loud roar filled the room. Turning, Coaldon saw a dragon's large head filling the doorway from the outside of the build- ing. The rest of the dragon's body was much too big to enter the room.

    In an excited voice Coaldon exclaimed, Marko, it is great to see you!

    After a small puff of smoke and a flicker of fire seeped from his mouth, the dragon said, I have returned from delivering your friends to Dragon Keep. Your twin sister sends her regards. She is very anxious to find out how your battle with Crossmore ended.

    As Marko glanced around the room, Cackle's presence drew the dragon's attention. With a burst of exhilaration, the dragon declared, If it isn't the notorious Cackles. This is a pleasant surprise. I assumed you would be basking on some warm beach, drinking coconut milk, and eating grapes. This must be an important task to draw you away from your luxurious lifestyle.

    Cackles laughed and responded, Yes, I am on a mission to assist my humble subjects. It is a waste of my many talents to just lounge in opulence. My royal superiority demands I submit myself to the service of the common person.

    Marko burst into uproarious laughter at Cackle's pompous arrogance.

    The dragon responded, "I have forgotten how much I enjoy your hidden talents.

    By the way, I am tired of sticking my head through the door. Please join me outside the building so we can continue our conversation."

    With a sudden jerk, the dragon removed his head from the doorway. Coaldon followed Marko outside the building with Cackles proudly perched on his shoulder.

    In an excited voice, Coaldon questioned, Marko, how was the flight to Dragon Keep? How are my friends?

    In a deep voice, the dragon rumbled, The flight was excellent. There were no problems. Your companions are happily settled into the Keep. Even though my home was constructed for dragons, it is still comfortable for your friends. I left enough food and water to fill their needs for many weeks. Their only concern is the inability to leave. The Keep is perched on top of a tall peak, with only sheer cliffs below it. The only access to it is by dragon wings. They must depend on me to leave.

    Coaldon responded, That is a small price to pay for their escape from Crossmore. By the way, my plans have changed since we last talked. Our distinguished and honored guest, Cackles, has brought a message from my grandfather, Brad. It seems I have been summoned to meet with him at the Monastery of Toms.

    At this announcement, Cackles leaped into the air, flew in a wide circle around Marko, and landed on top of the dragon's head. At first, Marko stood perfectly still, not knowing what to do. Then, out of frustration, the large creature released a roar, shook his head, and emitted a blast of fire. As the dragon's head moved back and forth, Cackles spread his wings and rose into the air. When Marko's head stopped moving, Cackles returned to perch on his head.

    The dragon's show of frustration did not seem to intimidate Cackles. The bird giggled and lowered his head. With his head upside-down, Cackles looked into Marko's eyes.

    In a mocking voice the old bird declared, My, you are a most awesome beast! What will you do for your next performance? Maybe you will dance a jig or sing a song.

    With flashing eyes the dragon looked at Cackle's upside-down head. After several moments, Marko said, I should have expected the unexpected from you. Now, please get off my head before I fry you into a puddle of grease.

    The pompous bird knew he had reached the limits of Marko's graciousness and it was time to heed the warning. With a nod of submission, the chubby bird flew to a spot next to Coaldon, awkwardly landed, and lowered his sagging body to the ground. The bird looked at Marko with sad eyes, limp body, and drooping face.

    In a sorrowful voice, Cackles moaned, I have been rejected in such a cruel and disrespectful manner. I was only trying to be helpful. My noble pride has been wounded.

    The Dragon observed this performance with bright eyes, a broad smile, and a curious expression of anticipation.

    With a thunder of laughter, Marko said, Your acting has improved over the years. If I did not know you better, I might actually feel sorry for you.

    Yesterday

    When Cackles realized that his pouting had not gained his desired response, the bird returned to his jolly self. With a smile, he looked at Marko and began to ask the dragon questions about his life. It was not long before the two old friends were sharing experiences and events long forgotten in the his- tory of the Empire.

    While Cackles and Marko chattered like two excited school girls, Coaldon observed the dragon with looks of admiration. The young prince appreciated that the noble creature had saved his companions from Crossmore and returned to assist him. As Coaldon stared at the dragon, he felt a strange sense of unity with the creature. He felt as if Marko was an intimate friend and a close ally. The power of the dragon reached out and touched the young warrior with a unique sense of camaraderie.

    Coaldon's thoughts were interrupted when the dragon looked away from Cackles and gazed at Coaldon.

    In a soft voice, Marko stated, My dear prince, you drip with destiny. Please tell me about yourself. I am most curious.

    Coaldon was surprised at the sincerity of the dragon's request. Without hesi- tating, he responded, I was raised on a wilderness farm in Lost Valley among the towering Black Mountains. My grandparents, Brad and Ingrid, were hard-working farmers. Twenty years ago, my elfin mother and human father were killed when Wastelow conquered the Empire and deposed my grandfather as emperor. Then, on my eighteenth birthday, I learned that I was the heir to the throne and had a twin sister, Noel. Among the gifts I received on my birthday were the Blade of Conquest, Strong Edge the Knife, and the Gem of Watching.

    After pausing to gather his thoughts, Coaldon continued, The aftermath of these revelations forced me to leave behind the carefree life of my youth. At the Council of Toms it was decided to rescue my twin sister from her captivity in Neverly. The rescue of Noel opened a wonderful relationship with my dynamic and caring sister.

    Marko interrupted Coaldon, asking, What motivated your journey to the City of Mazz?

    The young warrior responded. It is our destiny to free the Empire from the hands of Crossmore. The Key of Ban is the only tool that can complete this task. It has the power to cast Crossmore and his army into captivity. The elfin book was hidden by ancient wizards to protect mankind from misusing its power.

    The dragon reacted, Am I correct to assume that the Key of Ban has been found?

    Clearing his voice, Coaldon continued, Yes, I have recovered the Key of Ban from the Island of Death. It is our mission to unite the book with Topple the Wizard in order to cast Crossmore into the Chamber of Oblivion.

    As Coaldon paused, the dragon stared at him with penetrating eyes and an expressionless face.

    Marko finally responded, Thank you for trusting me with this information. Coaldon continued, Trust is important if we are to be successful.

    With a curious expression on his face, the dragon said, You used 'we' to describe your fellowship of warriors. I get the impression that the word 'we' includes me.

    Not giving Coaldon time to answer, Cackles injected, You are extra sharp today. It seems we cannot get anything past your quick mind. Yes, we need your help. Coaldon's grandfather, Brad, has requested that the prince join him at the Monastery of Toms. Would you please provide Coaldon and me with a ride to the monastery? This will save us many days of traveling through the Black Mountains.

    The dragon stared at Cackles with a surprised expression. Tilting his head to one side, a ripple of frustration crossed Marko's face. The large creature shifted his weight from leg to leg in a show of annoyance. A shiver of anxiety twisted through his massive body in a jerking motion.

    With distress in his voice, the dragon said, I am a shy creature who finds comfort in being by myself. I do not like being around people, yet I know you need my help. I agree that Crossmore must be defeated, but it would be a great sacrifice for me to leave my peaceful life.

    At the completion of Marko's statement, Cackles once again leaped off the ground and flew around the courtyard. After issuing a cackling cry, the impetuous bird landed on the tip of the dragon's nose. Marko was so bewildered by the bird's antics that he was stunned into inaction. Marko's eyes crossed as he looked at Cackle's blurred image.

    Gazing into the dragon's eyes, the bird declared in a grandiose tone, I am the esteemed Cackles of Dumpford. My wisdom and knowledge are legendary and without flaw. It is imperative for you to honor my noble eminence. As a humble servant, it is highly suggested that you follow my directive. I will not accept whining or sniveling. As your lord, I direct you to take me and my friend to the Monastery of Toms.

    After completing this proclamation, Cackles tossed his beak in the air with an arrogant flip. Not waiting for a response, he flew into the air and landed on the branch of a nearby tree. With a flamboyant shift of his body, the aging bird fluffed his feathers in a dignified flurry and cast a demanding stare at the dragon.

    Again, Marko was caught off guard. His life as a recluse had not prepared him to face the tenacity of Cackles.

    The dragon gazed at the ruffled bird with kindly, gentle eyes. In a soft voice, Marko commented, The passage of time has dulled my memory. I have forgotten about your impressive character and wisdom. I believe it would be a mistake for me to ignore your edicts. Sometimes we must venture outside the walls of security to fulfill a greater need. With no further thought or debate, I offer my services to you and Coaldon.

    Cackles responded, This is good news. I was hoping you would join us. You will provide the Empire with an important service.

    The Bonding

    Coaldon was vaguely aware of the conversation between Cackles and Marko. His attention was not focused on the discussion, but rather on the closeness he felt with the dragon. He sensed a warm glow of harmony with the dragon that radiated from his elfin nature.

    Looking at Marko, Coaldon declared, For some reason I feel a link between us. This feeling goes beyond anything rational or normal. What is going on?

    Marko thought for several moments before responding, It has been many centuries since I have thought about the ancient relationship that once existed between elves and dragons. Many centuries ago, elves and dragons forged a mutual relationship of support and friendship. The bond is deeply ingrained into the char- acter of both elves and dragons. You are feeling the inherent nature of this union coming alive within yourself.

    An expression of confusion covered Coaldon's face as he considered the mean- ing of Marko's words. He shut his eyes to allow Marko's incomprehensible message to find significance in his life. Opening his eyes, he had the feeling that the large creature was more than an acquaintance, but rather a member of his family.

    With hesitant words, Coaldon responded, Your presence has opened a door within me that goes beyond my ability to understand. You are becoming a brother to me.

    Looking at Coaldon, Cackles declared, There is much more to your elfin heritage than you will ever know. You need to accept this relationship as a special gift. Let go of the limited boundaries of your mind and allow your spirit to be your guide.

    Marko followed, Two of the unique characteristics of the dragon and elf relationship are the ability for them to have unspoken communications and to fly together as a single unit. Through this relationship, dragons gain the confidence and insight of elves, and elves acquire the wisdom and power of dragons. They form a fellowship of oneness.

    Cackles interrupted saying, To form this bond, it is necessary for each of you to make a commitment to the other. In the old days this was achieved by a formal ritual. An official ceremony is not necessary to establish this alliance. You only need to make a simple commitment to each other. This can be achieved by repeating the following statement to each other: 'I give to you that which is mine to freely give. I receive from you that which I freely accept. Together we form a union of righteous- ness. I vow allegiance to you, the One Presence, and the Empire.'

    At first Coaldon was hesitant to submit to the union. The surreal nature of the moment was difficult for him to grasp.

    Then, after several moments of consideration, the young prince said, I have decided to take the leap of faith into the unknown. All my life I have trusted in the providence of life to protect and guide me.

    After a short pause, Coaldon said, Marko, I request that you form a pact with me, guided by the model of our inherent link. I never imagined that I would be asking a dragon to form a living bond with me, but I believe we are meant to work together.

    With a sly smile, Marko responded, I accept your offer and ask you to also unite with me.

    With a ripple of excitement flowing through his body, Coaldon answered, I accept your offer. Cackles, would you please guide us through the commitment ceremony?

    In a regal manner, the old bird lifted his beak into the air, fluffed his feathers, and declared, Please join me at the altar in the Garden of Peace.

    The luxuriant garden was located next to the College of Magic and was recessed in an alcove behind a tall, stone wall. A wide gateway, covered by cascading ivy plants, opened into an area abounding with beautiful, flowering plants. A narrow walkway led to a round courtyard covered with marble stone and flooded with bright sunlight. A small, plainly-designed altar dominated the center of the courtyard with simple dignity. It was a mystery how such a beautiful garden could exist in a city dilapidated by centuries of neglect and decay. The beauty of the garden gave credence to the power protecting its existence.

    The stately bird directed the companions to enter the garden and stand next to each other before the altar. With noble grandeur, Cackles flew to the altar and landed on it with less then royal posture. Yet, the formality of the bird's noble character radiated the seriousness of the moment.

    Straightening his body into a formal position, the old bird said, It is my privilege to be witness to this important event. Never under-estimate the power and significance of the commitment you make today. The foundation of the Em- pire depends on the character illuminated by the steadfastness of your vows. But remember that actions must fill the space created by your pledges of loyalty and goodness. Now, repeat after me.

    In the isolation of the abandoned City of Mazz and the splendid garden, the two companions exchanged their oaths in a simple, yet majestic manner. After completing the commitment ritual, a flash of blinding light shot between the two individuals, followed by an eerie silence. All things were as they were before, except for the new power of their alliance. The two were formed into one, creating an added strength in the war against evil.

    Both Coaldon and Marko looked at each other with uncertainty. It had sounded bold and exciting to form the union, but what did it mean? Since it had been many centuries since any elf and dragon had made this commitment, they did not know how to work as a team. No example was available to guide them. They would need to use trial and error to learn.

    The dragon was the first to respond, It seems strange to have lived for many centuries by myself and now to have a partner to share my life. I think I know what to do first. I will be right back.

    The dragon leaped off the ground and flew to the top of the College of Magic. After a short time, he returned with something dangling from his mouth. He landed and dropped onto the ground a piece of leather with stirrups and a long strap attached to it.

    Looking at Coaldon, Marko stated, I believe you will need this in the future. It is a saddle that has been stored in the college for many centuries. This will make it possible for you to safely ride on my back. The saddle is infused with elfin magic. As you can see, it looks like new. By the way, the name Riverdawn is printed on the stirrups.

    Cackles excitedly declared, Now, this is most interesting. I remember the name Riverdawn from my study of ancient elfin legend. If I am not mistaken, he was the commander of a dragon/elf military unit devoted to the defense of their kingdom. He was a great leader and a valiant warrior. Coaldon, you have big shoes to fill. Yet, you would not be given this gift unless you were capable of handling its responsibilities. Oh, one more thing, your personal thoughts cannot be read by the other. Only thoughts of common interest can be shared.

    The meaning of Cackle's words burned in Coaldon's mind. This experi- ence seemed more like a delusion than reality. Lowering his head, he thought, Maybe I am still living on the farm in Lost Valley and having a dream. Maybe I will wake up in the morning and the thoughts of dragons will be gone. I hope I am not going crazy.

    He then glanced at Marko, the saddle, and finally at Cackles. He suddenly realized that he was not dreaming. The truth was so unbelievable that it verged on being absurd.

    Coaldon raised his head and looked directly at Marko and Cackles, saying, Sometimes the truth seems more unimaginable than fantasy. I guess I need to once again accept my fate and look past the distractions.

    Marko said, In your eyes I may appear unreal, but in truth, I am as real as the earth and sky. So, I suggest you place the saddle on my back, cinch the strap, and let us go for a ride.

    Flying Lessons

    Coaldon reached down, picked up the saddle, and approached Marko. With an awkward motion, he threw the saddle over the large creature only to have it fall to the ground on the opposite side of the dragon. Marko laughed with delight at the young warrior's clumsy attempt.

    With a snicker, Marko chuckled, I believe this is only the beginning of many awkward moments as we learn to work together. Let us try this again. I will lower my back to make it easier for the saddle to fall into place. The cinch strap should be simple to tighten if my shoulders are closer to the ground.

    At first, Coaldon hung his head in frustration at being so clumsy. Yet, after the dragon lowered his body, he tried it again. This time the saddle fell into place in a crease on Marko's shoulders. It fit comfortably in a notch in front of the dragon's wings and at the base of his long neck. Coaldon reached under Marko, grabbed the cinch strap, and firmly tightened the belt.

    As the young prince pulled the cinch with a firm tug, the dragon groaned, Now, that is enough of that. I can't breathe.

    Coaldon giggled, Why would a big, tough dragon like you be concerned about a strap around your chest? Maybe you are soft after all those years work- ing in the college.

    With a twinkle in his eyes and a lilt of humor in his voice, the dragon responded, All right! All right! I suppose you might have a point. The saddle must be firmly strapped in place, or you might fall off my back. That might hurt. I guess I must suffer the anguish of having a tight-fitting saddle tied around my body. Oh, the price I must pay for the good of the Empire.

    The warrior looked at Marko and said, I believe it is time for us to take our first test flight. I am ready if you are.

    With an easy motion, Coaldon mounted the dragon, placed his feet into the stirrups, and anxiously waited. Then, without warning, Marko gave a giant leap, spread his wings, and soared into the air. As Marko gained altitude, he shifted his body from side-to-side to adjust Coaldon's weight. With grace, the large creature made several dives and shot into steep climbs without any thought of Coaldon.

    As Marko ascended into the air over the City of Mazz, Coaldon gave a sickly moan, gritted his teeth, and froze in a rigid position. The sight of the ground far below him caused fear to control his thoughts and feelings. The to/fro and up/down movements of the dragon caused Coaldon to suffer from gut-wrenching distress. He wildly glanced around to find a way to escape from the terror ripping through his entire body. As his stomach churned, the young prince whimpered, I am getting sick. Please land before I decorate your neck with an unpleasant residue.

    At this point, Marko realized that Coaldon had never flown. The warrior's gallant exploits on the ground had not prepared him to fly. So, with a gentle glide, the large creature gave

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