Season of the Blue Star Read online

  'The time is upon us,' Ealdar said as he returned to the stall and almost immediately Kyy could feel the energy in the room change. He focused his mind, and used his gift to communicate silently with Ashka. He sensed both the mare and the new life about to be born. Kyy tried his best to send calming, reassuring energy to Ashka, as the storm's intensity escalated to a higher level. Lightning flashed incessantly outside, illuminating the gaps in the shutters and between the cracks in the wooden walls. The storm sent thunder rolling across the plains and into the ears of every living animal, for miles around. All creatures great and small took cover from the storm's might. In this they were equal. The rain poured down, pounding on the stable's roof and adding ferocity to the storm's fervour.

  The event was an emotional one for Kyy. The violent weather seemed to augment his senses so that the world took on a surreal quality, where form and light merged. Yet again, he sensed another presence. It was then, as the storm reached its zenith, that the foal was born.

  Quiet suddenly descended as if to emphasize the new arrival. The storm's intensity ceased incredibly quickly and now all was blanketed in silence. The lightning no longer flashed and the thunder was only heard as a faint rumble. The tension that had been building in Kyy eased. He breathed deeply and a measure of calm prevailed in the Thoria Stables. Reality returned for Kyy. He stood with his grandfather and watched as the newborn foal gathered its strength and tried to stand for the first time.

  'Born of storms, this foal will be strong,' said Ealdar and he seemed very pleased when the young horse managed on its first attempt.

  'It is clear he is from a Hybridia line, and you have yourself a colt.' The foal was very alert, watching everything through bright green eyes. 'He is the image of his grandfather,' said Ealdar proudly, 'as expected'.

  Almost completely white, apart from his dark brown mane, the foal was truly beautiful. Within a few moments the young horse was walking confidently around the stable, the strength in his body evident, while Ealdar tended to Ashka, ensuring she was in good health.

  Kyy stared at the foal in admiration. He wanted nothing more than to move closer and touch him but he knew it was better to let the foal's mother fully bond with him first. Ashka began to nuzzle close, learning the foal's scent. The feeling of owning his own horse had not yet sunk in and the whole experience of the birth and the storm had left him a little bewildered. As Kyy stood in a state of silence, watching the foal and his mother in his first moments of life away from the safety and comfort of the womb, Kyy's mind wandered back to the events of the storm. It had been so powerful and then had ended so abruptly with the arrival of his foal. He wondered about the being he was sure he had sensed in the midst of the thunder, a soul's whisper that seemed calm yet forceful.

  It was then that Kyy became aware of a low-pitched rumble from outside, like the final sound made by a thunderclap before it died away. This sound, however, was continuous and lingered subtly in the air. Kyy wasn't sure if it had been there all along and had simply gone unnoticed, or had only recently begun. He was drawn to the sound and found himself moving outside. Kyy glanced around the stables but his grandfather seemed not to have noticed the noise. He was tending the other horses with a delighted expression on his face. Ashka and her newborn were standing side by side at the far end of the stall.

  Kyy stared at the foal and was caught in the gaze of green eyes; they burrowed deep within him and Kyy immediately sensed wisdom through those young eyes. He smiled as a million thoughts rushed through his mind like a great waterfall. Every drop of water was a premonition of his life with his new friend. Training to ride, galloping through forests and hills and summer meadows, walking on dusty roads, riding into fierce battles, seeing him grow from colt to stallion and stroking his head as he passed from this world. He watched him in bright blue days, rain-soaked nights under the silver moonlight running like the wind. He saw summer, winter, autumn and spring all in a moment.

  How can one feel nostalgic about things that have not yet transpired? Kyy wondered momentarily but soon the specific details faded to warm vague feelings, and Kyy focused again on the low-pitched rumble from outside. He turned to the door and lifted the large beam that sat on two metal arms on either side of it, holding the door secure. Placing the beam on the ground he undid the bolts and opened the large wooden door.

  Kyy slid through the gap he had made and walked out into the night, leaving the stable door slightly ajar. The rain had turned to steady drizzle, but Kyy barely noticed. His attention was wholly focused on something incredible. The cause of the noise was immediately apparent, yet completely inexplicable. In the sky filled with storm clouds was a huge sphere of light. The energy inside seemed to swirl and move constantly and was more concentrated toward the centre. About the edges, the dark clouds reflected the light as if reflecting a perpetual lightning flash. The clouds shimmered all around the huge sphere, creating a magical effect that Kyy could only stare at, completely awe-struck.

  Kyy realized that it must be lightning energy making up this swirling vortex but had never even heard of anything like it before. He was unsure of how long he stood there before he sensed a presence behind him. As he slowly and reluctantly moved his gaze away from the phenomenon in the sky he was surprised to see the foal standing behind him. His natural instinct was to pick him up and bring him back into the stables, yet the urge to remain was somehow overpowering. Ealdar and Ashka both came only a few feet outside the stable door before they too were frozen to the spot. The young foal, however, was walking and even starting to run in short bursts around the yard. Kyy now stood about twenty paces from the stable with Ealdar and Ashka at the door.

  Kyy returned his gaze to the vortex. As he did, a huge flash of lightning exploded from the core, as loud and powerful as the strike had been in the stables. Kyy was forced to turn away and he held his hand over his eyes. The flash drowned out the world in white light and noise. Then the strange feeling returned; that of an ageless wisdom, everywhere and nowhere at once. This feeling lingered, as the light faded. Kyy was once again able to focus on the spiraling sphere above, which revealed a more wondrous spectacle than he could have ever dreamed. Within the vortex three forms flew and interacted with astonishing speed and grace. Kyy immediately understood what he was seeing. After a few moments two of the shapes seemed to merge back into the light, while the remaining figure glided majestically down to earth.

  The world had gone still and was completely quiet as the dragon descended gracefully and landed in the yard. The dragon was enormous, as big as ten horses; its immense muscled frame glistened in the light from the vortex. It seemed as black as pitch until its whole body would shimmer in a wave of electric blue energy, illuminating subtle blues, indigos and violets, within a scaled skin like black polished marble. The dragon's head, like the rest of its body, was sleek and powerful. His electric blue eyes were incandescent and mesmerizing. The dragon folded its huge dark wings elegantly by its side. The calming whispers that had existed within Kyy since the first lightning blast were energies from the dragon and all the sensations that had been so familiar, yet indefinable, were the same feelings he had experienced at the lake. A mixture of doubt, disbelief and shock had obscured the truth until now, but he knew that once more, he was in the presence of pure spirit, manifested in its earthly form.

  Kyy watched, oblivious to the dragon's intentions. It slowly turned to the foal. The young horse was still moving around the yard, seemingly unaware of what now stood only a few feet away. It turned to face the dragon a hundred times its size, yet did not seem frightened. The dragon's head was inches from that of the foal now, who stood like a solitary star against the blackest of nights. The eyes of the great being grew even brighter as it focused on the foal. Then the dragon breathed in, a massive inhalation that captured the energy from all around so that the world just faded away. It held its breath before opening its jaws. As the dragon exhaled it began to slowly fade into an intense blue mist. As it disappeared complet
ely the cloud of blue lingered, hovering in the dragon's place. The young horse then noticeably began to inhale, and as it did the intense mist passed first into the body of the foal then surrounded the animal so he was obscured from view.

  Kyy stood, astonished and helpless. All he could do was to stare in wonder at what was happening. The blue cloud flickered and flashed; a miniature thunderstorm only a few feet away. Time became distorted as the cloud continued to pulsate with surreal intensity. Kyy never knew how long he stood there for. Eventually the blue mist contracted, and disappeared into the foal. The newborn horse then exhaled the electric plume, which flashed and crackled as the form of the dragon again emerged casting the foal in a dark shadow. As the great being fully reformed, the foal seemed to lose his balance and collapsed to his knees. Kyy tried to step forward, but his stride was checked as the dragon spread its massive wings and with one huge beat took to the air. Again the world froze, this time leaving only Kyy and the dragon. The reassuring sense that he remembered from before filled Kyy as an indistinguishable energy suddenly took voice.

  'I know you, as you know me. We exist together on a level of consciousness that you can touch, but not fully inhabit. This is where we belong, but for now we are apart. I am in the land, the skies, the distant stars and the unending ocean. Your gift of spirit is strong, but one more gift I shall give you - a star to help light your path. True power, comes always from within. It is a light that can never dwindle once ignited. Remember that.'

  In an instant the world rushed back and time resumed. Blue light burned behind the dragon's eyes as it soared into the night, returning to the vortex that still blazed in the sky. The black form lingered for a brief moment then merged with the light, and both vanished. Seconds later the low rumble faded, leaving the world in silence.

  Kyy regained his composure, and was released from the dragon's hold. He ran to the foal, who still lay unmoving on the ground. Ealdar was by his side almost instantly. Ashka now trotted to her foal and nuzzled close to the newborn. The contrast of the horses was now as vivid as night and day. Where before the foal had shared the white colouration of Ashka, he now lay as black as shadow stone. With encouragement from his mother the young colt stirred and raised his head. It was the most striking sight. The head was completely black save for a three-pointed star of white. It ran in a thin line from his forehead and split beneath his eyes, then stretched to either side of his face. Then there were those remarkable eyes. Before they had been green; now two electric blue lights stared back, bright and alive with energy.

  'He has the eyes of the dragon,' Kyy said, and in that moment realized the foal was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen.

  Within seconds the foal gathered his strength and stood effortlessly, revealing the rest of his body which was now completely black, except for the white star on his forehead. It was as if the blackness had washed over him, leaving only a remnant of his former colour.

  'I never believed I would witness such a thing.' Ealdar's bemused whisper barely escaped his lips as he led Ashka toward the stable. The foal followed behind, as did Kyy.

  'He spoke to me, Grandfather... before he flew away... he... he told me things. I heard a voice during the storm and it became clear after...'

  'After he bestowed your horse with his power,' said Ealdar.

  Kyy had not yet considered the true implications of what he had just witnessed, but his grandfather's words made it clear. His foal was a Hybridia. He looked upon the colt, which happily made his way into the stables. The power of the dragon had dwelt for a time in every fibre of the foal's being and it was this abundance of energy that transformed the horse's appearance to more accurately reflect that of the dragon.

  'We have much to discuss,' Ealdar said, 'but first we must tend to the horses.'

  These simple routine tasks helped to ground Kyy as he worked laying fresh hay, refilling water troughs and putting food out before returning to the end of the stables. There in the lantern light they could see the beauty of the foal more clearly. From a distance he appeared jet black; it was only up very close that the subtlety of his coat became apparent. When the light caught the coat it shimmered, revealing deep shades of many colours. Then they vanished as quickly as they had come. It was as if the coat was alive and the colours were not permanent, but energies dancing across a black canvas. This, combined with his blue eyes, made him look like a truly magical creature.

  Kyy described his experience to Ealdar as they both stared at the young horse, who was now relaxed and comfortable beside his mother.

  'I was aware of a presence once I entered the stables, but because so much was happening I was not sure exactly what it was I was sensing.'

  'You are privileged indeed to have encountered such beings on more than one occasion' said Ealdar. 'You say the dragon spoke to you. What did he say?'

  'The dragon told me that he was giving me a gift, a star to help guide the way.'

  'Clearly you both will have a journey to make,' remarked Ealdar.

  'He also told me that true power comes from within.'

  'An eloquent statement. There is no doubt the dragons are astounding beings and there is now much for us to consider, Kyy. At this time, however, we are in no hurry; it will be months before your horse can be ridden, even though I expect his strength will be great. I am intrigued as to what abilities he will possess once he has matured, for I've never heard of a Lightning Hybridia. This is truly a wonder.

  'There will be much more training to challenge you now. You intended to join the Scouts, and that, I am sure, is still your goal. Like your father you will become a Storm Scout, for you, more than any other, are suited, and it would appear destined, to such things. Your Hybridia is born of storms, and you must learn all the skills that enhance your gifts and his. Whatever path fate intends for you, I promise that you will receive every advantage I can offer, and be more than adequately equipped in every way possible, before leaving here.'

  Calm descended at last on the Thoria Stables, and the sky was now clear and silent.

  'Everything is done here and we must leave. It is time for us to retire for the night,' said Ealdar as he looked around the stables.

  Kyy was reluctant to go, and could not take his eyes off the colt; his mind was a haze with everything he had experienced and thoughts of the future. Ealdar noticed his grandson's unease and spoke lovingly.

  'Whatever is to come, will be, for now though there is only peace and little to worry on. Think not of the future, but be content in each moment and the weight of the world will be lifted, you have much to be grateful for.'

  Kyy was very grateful for Ealdar's company and words. 'Thank you Grandfather, you are right, I'm just so confused. '

  'A good night's sleep and the morning sun will clear you head,' Ealdar smiled.

  'Let me say goodnight. I have named my new friend.'

  Kyy approached the horses and gently stroked Ashka as Ealdar watched on closely.

  He then put his hand on the foal and immediately felt the energy as he looked into those eyes. Like being caught in a miniature tornado, emotions, energy and light abounded.

  'You and I will be together for a long time.' he said. 'Before all else you are my friend. I am thankful beyond words for your presence. You are a star for me... my Shadow Star.' The foal nuzzled close to Kyy and lay down to sleep.

  'Shadow Star, is a befitting name Kyy, well done, and he has the right idea,' Ealdar said with smiling eyes. He hugged his grandson with one arm and they walked back to the house.

  Kyy thought he would never be able to rest, but once in his room, the long day immediately took hold of him, and he fell straight to sleep.

  Chapter 3

  Surprises

  "You are a blossom in a vast field of harmony."

  -Anon

  THE MORNING SUN ROSE swift and bright. When Kyy awoke the sky was clear and with a sharpness of blue that called attention to the heavens as if its colour carried voice. He got out of bed and moved c
loser to the window. The yard and buildings were largely unaffected by the storm, save for bits of debris that had been scattered in random patterns on the ground and some rather large muddied puddles. His excitement, which had been bubbling beneath the surface, now exploded as he caught sight of the stables. He quickly dressed and bounded down the stairs. As Kyy expected, Ealdar was already up and preparing breakfast. He was, however, surprised to see the table partially covered with books, papers and documents.

  'Ah there you are, we have an interesting time ahead of us.' said Ealdar as Kyy made his way to the door.

  'I'm going to see Shadow Star.'

  'Of course, but first sit with me for a moment and have some breakfast.' Kyy reluctantly took a seat opposite his grandfather and watched him closely. There was a book entitled Laws of Calbura on his left, and another called The History of War on his right. Kyy enjoyed reading but did not believe he would favour these kinds of books.

  Ealdar brought Kyy a large bowl of porridge with cinnamon, honey and nuts mixed in and then started to prepare a plate of cold meats and bread. Kyy felt that this was rather too much food for one meal, and as if sensing his grandson's reservations Ealdar spoke.

  ''A Storm Scout must distinguish himself in every aspect of his life. I told you last night that I would aid you as best I can in your journey, so this morning we have a number of things to discuss.

  'First, you need to be aware of the government, laws and history of this land. These things you will begin to study once you join the Scouts and progress through the ranks. Wood Scouts have little need for the detailed politics of Calbura, as their jobs are quite limited. With the progression from Wood Level to Forest Level a Scout has a greater need for such knowledge, but it is not until one becomes a Wind Scout that this information becomes essential and only very accomplished Forest Scouts will be eligible. I plan to educate you to the point of Wind Level and prepare you for the Storm Trials.'