The Blue Eyed Dragon

I sat with my back straight and my hands across my lap, waiting for the meeting to be over, I hated these things, but as the first-born, I must learn it all. I needed the knowledge I would gain to one day rule over my people. I was the great, great granddaughter of The Great black Dragon Albus Thorn, the creator of the treaty that led to the way our lives our now.

My father was king of our tribe and served his people well, but soon, I will take over and he will step down. It was the way things were done and I was pleased that he trusted me enough to hand over our tribe. It was a blessing.

That was, when I didn’t have to sit through the meetings like this one.

My father’s second in command Lord Syrian sighed as the treasurer continued to talk about how much money we made/spent on trade this year. He couldn’t stand to hear him drone on about it either, that’s why he was my favourite.

“Therefore, I believe that this year will be the most productive yet.” The treasurer finally finished, sighs of relief flooding the meeting room.

My father cleared his throat, capturing the attention of everyone in the room instantly, his voice booming like the great Dragon he was. “If that is all, I need a moment to talk to Syrian and my daughter.”

“Yes, my king.” Came the voices of the men and women around me as they stood and turned to leave.

My father turned to me, and I was instantly on edge, normally whatever he says can be shared with everyone, so whatever it is, it mustn’t be good news.

I straightened my spine and prepared for the worse.

If I had done something out of line, I would own up to it and grant my apologies, because that’s what a good leader does.

“Lucinda, we have had news from Deiter, king of The Griffin’s.” My father said, his eyes watching me, searching for weakness that I wouldn’t show. “He has demanded a wife to stop his attacks on the eastern front. He said he wants ‘the blue-eyed dragon’ and will accept no other.”

My eyes widen and I clench my fists, Dieter wants me? But why?

I was the only Dragon born with blue eyes, it was unnatural for our kind, normally it was only shades of black, red and orange. I was a mystery. But did that mean I stood out?

Lord Syrian jumped to his feet and slammed his hands against the table, he had never been one to control his emotions, he was very angry. Anyone could see that. “Majesty, you cannot be seriously considering this, Deiter will kill her the moment they meet!”

I raise my hand to silence Syrian, knowing that I must think of the people first, not just myself. If this is a chance to end a lifetime of war, then what other choice did I have? I rose to my feet and kept my face blank, hiding the tears that I wished to shed.

“Has he agreed to cease all fighting?” I ask my father, fearing the answer.

“Yes.” He nodded, his black eyes watching me, almost knowing what I will say. “He will trial your presence among his people for two months, then he will marry you.”

“Lucinda do not agree, they are barbaric creatures and treat women as slaves.” Lord Syrian snarls, his nose filling with smoke, showing he was losing control of his dragon counterpart.

“Let it be her choice, dear friend.” My father says calmly, trying to tame the lord’s Dragon.

I sigh, knowing what I must do and yet fearful to obey my mind, “What will happen if I decline?”

My father looked away from me for the first time, his voice low. “He’ll kill every man, woman and child in the eastern region.”

I nod my head, understanding the risks. “I accept. There is no other choice, we choose our people first.” I pause, my heart shattering within my chest. “My brother Declan is reaching his fifteenth cycle next month; you will have to train him or the throne father.”

My father nods, but his second in command speaks; “You are going to accept?!” Lord Syrian protests, “You are like a daughter to me, I can't lose you to them.”

I smile sadly, placing my hand on his. “It must be done; the eastern region is vulnerable. I cannot be the reason our people die. I’m not afraid Syrian.”

Syrian rips his hand from mine, “You should be, they’re not a nice species, nor a forgiving one.”

He storms from the room and leaves me alone with my father, a trail of smoke following him as he almost shifts in the hallway.

I turn to my father. “He’ll understand eventually.”

“Perhaps, though I wouldn’t be so sure, my child.” my father sighs, watching the closed door before turning to look at me, pulling me into his arms. “Are you sure about this? You can say no.”

“My father once told me not to say no because of fear, that saying yes is giving yourself the courage you will need for the future.”

“Wise man.” My father chuckled.

I pull away from his embrace. “How long before I must leave?”

“His messenger returns within the hour; you must go with him.” He frowns and I sigh, it wasn’t a lot of time.

“Then I will begin to pack.” I say absentmindedly, trying to hold myself together.

“You cannot, they insist they’ll provide for you. Take nothing.”

“That is strange.”

“Yes, but we don’t understand their culture. It may be customary for them. You must follow the rules they give you if you want to survive.” my father pulls me in for one last hug. “Write to me.”

“I will write weekly.” I smile sadly, this may be the last time I see my family.

I can't even say goodbye to my mother or brother as they are both away now, they’re visiting the outer cities. I wish I could have seen them one last time, but it just isn't meant to be.

“I will miss you, always.”

“As I will you, my child.” my father mutters and I could tell he was also losing control of his Dragon.

“I’ll take my leave.” I say, fighting a battle with my own counterpart.

My father nods and I turn and leave, my heart shattering and my mind fearful of what the future will hold for me.