Chapter 2-3

Despite enjoying his time outside the lair, Garkhen had little love for being carried aloft by his mentor. Although Solkh'Tolkharkha attempted to be gentle, his grip had to be uncomfortably firm to keep the young half-dragon secure, and he could do little about the chill wind that whistled between his clawed toes. Garkhen endured the discomfort in silence, not only because it was difficult for him to speak through the wind, but also because he refused to let minor physical inconveniences elicit a complaint from himself. 

 

After some time aloft, Solkh'Tolkharkha spoke. “There is something I wish to speak of with you before we arrive. You have attended well to your studies, and unless I have sorely misunderstood, you show great interest in the teachings of the Platinum Dragon.”

“Yes.” Garkhen had to shout to be heard, as he lacked the great lungs of a full-grown dragon. 

 

“As you know, the Great Convocation is a meeting of those who follow Bahamut. What I have yet to tell you is that it is the time that new Warders may join his order.”

Garkhen's eyes widened as he realized what Solkh'Tolkharkha was suggesting. “And... I would have that opportunity?”

“I would speak for you, should you desire to serve,” the gold dragon rumbled in reply. “Your faults are the faults of youth, but your heart seems to yearn to protect. The Warder's calling is for such.”

Garkhen was silent for a moment, considering a response, but before he could speak again Solkh'Tolkharkha added, “Do not make your decision now. We have many hours to fly, and you would be wise to consider such a momentous choice carefully. If you have questions, you may ask, but otherwise I will leave you to your thoughts. Think deeply not only on the what, but the why.”

Garkhen followed his mentor's advice for the rest of the long flight. He asked few questions, but his mind was full as he thought of what he had learned and read, and what he knew of himself. When at last, with the sunset glittering off gold scales, Solkh'Tolkharkha glided toward a ledge in front of a cave to land, his young half-dragon charge felt he was certain of his answer.

*******

Honestly, if I'd been on top of things this would have been posted yesterday... but oh, well. It's here now. So, yes, it's kind of odd that Solkh'Tolkharkha would spring this on Garkhen so suddenly, but I think he had his reasons. Perhaps they'll even be explained at some point.