Chapter 1: Choice
Kaden strode to the Great Field. This sacred pasture, shared by all three Castish tribes, had been the place where mounts were chosen since time immemorial. He was to meet the tribal shaman, who would guide him to a decision. Only his best friend Brier had come along, somewhat awkwardly, atop the bossy wyvern he'd chosen, his other friends having apologetically declined, citing pre-existing plans. Kaden felt sure they involved jousting sessions or other training atop their new mounts-- he was, after all, the youngest. However, he felt determined to get more glory than any of them... well, except maybe Brier, a strong and self-assured but compassionate lancer who'd finally met his match in his strong-willed wyvern, Risskozai. The swordsman possessed considerable strength as well, for one his age, and hated being left out of things; he wanted a tough mount, somewhat to prove his worth. Brier resisted the urge to race ahead and allowed his younger friend to keep pace.
Kaden, feeling apprehensive, hastened his step. In a few minutes he arrived at the perimeter of the field, short of breath but excited.
Brier: So, Kaden? What's it gonna be, buddy?
Kaden: Oh... I don't know. I want to fly, but past that I'm not sure.
Brier: How about another wyvern? They're cool, but kinda... you know.
Kaden: What, can't handle that thing? Hehe... nah, not a wyvern, can't be very comfortable. Let's see... pegasus?
Brier: Sure, I mean... if you're into that sort of thing.
Kaden: What are you talking about?
Brier: Never mind. Uh... hey... why don't you ask the shaman for advice?
Kaden: Good idea.
The two glanced in all directions. Confused expressions entered their faces.
Kaden: He's... he's supposed to be here, right?
Brier: For every ceremony. Of course. He was at Shay's, Mazel's, Carus'... where the hell is he?
Kaden: I don't know...
Brier: Let me fly up and see what I can find.
Risskozai, after a few moments of reluctance, grudgingly took wing, beating higher and higher into the air. Brier shouted in dismay.
Brier: Gods! I think I see something... maybe I should go scout that out. Might be dangerous... but we should do something about it soon... they're on the move...
Kaden: I'll...
What do you want to do?
a) Grab a mount and fly up
b) Follow on foot
c) Run back to the main camp (half day's walk) and try to get some more people
d) Something else |