7 Turns Ago (A Search Rider)_______

The silver and his rider appeared elegantly out of between in the afternoon skies of their next Hold. They had not had any luck at the last one, which had dampened Ko’lin’s spirits a little. But there had been many nice people there! Something that gave her hope with a new clutch warming on the Sands. Gold Cepheith had Risen and produced a good sized number of eggs. And Ko’lin wanted to find as many candidates to provide those eggs. Especially with the recent death of a gold dragon being only a few turns past. And the raid on Benden being fresh in the mind of the Pernese people.

Thinking of such an atrocious act against a gold still gave her nightmares some nights. Today was not a day for such thoughts, though. No, she was determined they would find what they were looking for here.

Look at them, Ko! They are alive and energetic. Perhaps this will be our lucky Hold!

The silver beast she sat astride snorted as he came in for a gentle landing. With you smiling like that, I doubt they could resist you. He rumbled, green eyes taking in the Hold itself.

Ko’lin just laughed, patting Komaith’s neck as she undid her flying straps and waited for him to offer his foot so he could lower her to the ground. The silver was silly like that, in her opinion. Always watching out for her. The petite woman removed her helmet and gloves before undoing her jacket to tuck against the flying harness on Komaith. “Will you behave out here while I go speak to those that wish to meet you first?” Ko’lin asked, scratching under Komaith’s eye as he swiveled his head down to her. He blew warm breath at her before nudging her towards the small crowd of people gather.

Go and do what Ko’lin’s do best.

Smiling, she turned and greeted the crowd. “Hello! I am Searchrider Ko’lin of silver Komaith. We ride in Search! A healthy clutch has been laid on the Sands and we hope to find suitable candidates to accompany us back to Trine Weyr.” It was probably her innocent appearance that made people relax around her. Even if she felt a little fearful that one of the Holds would not welcome them. She was not sure who still supported Benden or Keller. It was dangerous, she was told, to be out here alone. But Ko’lin had argued (as much as she argued anyways) that arriving with a guard would only frighten people.

The looming presence of Komaith brought her thoughts back to her current duties. He lowered his head and blinked curiously among the children who were both in awe and afraid of the large dragon in front of them. But one boy was brave enough to reach out a shaky hand. “Go ahead, you can touch him.” Ko’lin encouraged with a bright smile. As soon as the small hand touched his nose, a soft hum-like sound rose up from the silver.

I like this one, my Ko’lin. He is good. Komaith paused, nosing a little closer to the crowd. And this one too. They smell similar.

“Is this your brother?” Ko’lin asked in a cheery tone, walking up to offer the boy in question her hand. “Komaith likes you two. He is wondering if you like him as well?” They both nodded eagerly. “Would you want to ride him? And see the Weyr?” She asked with an awed tone. “He’d like to take you there. Both of you.” Her gaze shifted up towards the woman that approached, fear and acceptance in her eyes. “It’s a chance not many get. And even more of an honor to be chosen by Komaith.” She winked at the boys, turning back to their mother. “I understand it’s scary for a mother to let her children go into what seems like the unknown. Especially in these times. But I assure you, it is all worth it, if they are chosen! And if not, I can personally ensure they arrive back here safely, if that is what they wish. I only ask for the chance to show them how much I love dragons. And hope they will too.”

Her words must have rang true, she mused, watching the boys scramble up Komaith’s back as he rumbled in amusement. They had merely a small bag with a few personal belongings. Nothing more. Their mother wished them farewell as the powerful wings of Komaith took to the skies. “Hold on tight, we’re going between! It won’t last any longer than you can cough thrice!"