Tarragon's Eclipse

Prologue: Dragon Season

"There wasn’t always dragons in the valley."

The old man shouted among those around him. Trudging through muck and mud in the heart of the swamplands were three youths and two other men following the elder as he led, pointing out a few wild creatures soaring around the mountains over the horizon. He watched them with disdain and sunlight on his face, and spat "Damn cursed beast."

He went on ranting about the land's history and their part in it. Praising the hard work of their forefathers; reaping and sowing soil. Only for them and their decadents to always serve under dragon riders. He Blamed them all for their lot in life. Between the royal riders in the central mountains, ruling over everything from their decadent castles. Or the various nomadic savage riders to the south and the west. All doing as they please, cause they can, because they have dragons.

"And I've told those crowned fools, that the savages move about following the winged beast without any borders, always encroaching on our territory. The land they make us pay taxes on. They just swoop in unrestricted, making us bow to them and taking what we've earned; demanding it as tribute. So how are we supposed to pay our lords if we got nothing to sell? Hmm?

Yet the crowns still look at us like that's our problem, meanwhile the savages can just continue to do as they please. As long as they don't break the treaty. So, we're stuck to suffer in between hunting the scraps their beast leaves behind only to pay what little we can make to every bastard Mucker we have to cross who thinks themselves Drakes."

Some of the men nodded or made audible agreements with the old man leading them. But one among them seemed lost in thought and hesitant as they moved forward.

The old man went on about their ancestors who sailed across the Ophidian sea, bringing dragons with them and discovering the inhabitants here rode dragons of their own. But of the water instead of the sky. Xanchaza, they would call them, meaning serpent surfers. They would ride these large sea dragons’ back and forth between all the Coil islands and sink any ships that came too close. But over many years of expeditions and technological advancements with ships, gunpowder and saddles, spurs, reins, and holsters for dragon riding, spotting a Xanchaza, became a very rare site, but still out there; usually among pirates.

As time went on their ancestors taught the old serpent surfers how to hatch dragons', fly and how to shoot. Only for them to be ungrateful and continue their wild nomadic lifestyle. The new kings had hoped their trading with them would encourage unity, so that both people could live in a peaceful and civilized manner.

"But I say they gave the savages too much credit. That's why we're going to fix their mistake and rid the world of this bane and restore order to this land. The dragon lords in their castles won't do it, so it's up to us, Right!"

The old man called out for his followers to answer in echo, which they did. Singling out one who instead asked.

"But isn't this their land, so aren't we the ones disrupting the order?"

The boy looked around nervously as everyone stopped and turned to glare at him.

The old man spat and walked up to him tensely and asked.

"What was that? Did I hear you right boy?"

He stammered and said "I, I just mean if, if we have to choose between paying taxes we can't afford or, or our freedom only to be forced to bow to those who seem truly free, why not join…them?"

After managing to get the words out a nervous sweat seemed to exude from him that even the blazing sun beating over their heads couldn't have squeezed on its own.

After a silent moment of everyone staring, the old man said. "Let me get this right, you think we should just go hike all the way up them mountains right into our enemy's camp on our hands and knees and ask if we can join them, is that right? Hey, why not ask for a beast while we're at it and they can teach us how to fly! You still got your damn head in the clouds. The second you step foot into one of their camps they'll have their beast cook you where you stand and tie you to a post and feast on your flesh while they make you watch; still screaming. They'll pull apart your bones to wear as decoration and drink your blood from your skull."

The boy closed his mouth and swallowed, bowing his head.

"You're right, of course…it's just, well we're just, I mean…"

The rest of the party looked at him and snickered and some gave him plane stares of mistrust.

"Don't worry, little worm. I know, I know. I was scared of those monsters too when I was your age. But there's only one thing you need to remember: they bleed the same as the rest of us. Besides, our jobs the easy one. All we gotta do is scout a few more miles, find their camp and send out the signal. the sheriff and the silver brigade will take care of the hard part."

The old man took the lead again and demanded they all check their guns as they proceeded to the halfway point of their destination, calling for the rest of the rangers to get a move on.

Another youth sharing a similar look of fear in his eye, hung back and whispered.

"Hey, Cozu, I'm with you, we should turn back. This is suicide, I mean even if by some miracle we actually take out the Ixchl tribe, there's still a dozen other tribes we'll have to deal with, who have generations of experience fighting in the air on dragon back. There's no way we even stand a chance. Best we can do is turn back before we get spotted."

"But I'm not scared, Tolz. I just think the old man has it all wrong. I don't think they're savages like he says."

"You know he's fought them before, right? I think he would know a thing or two."

"Yes, but from what I've heard, most of the skirmishes between our people are inconsistent or start with us attacking them for some supposed retribution.

Now they're planning to start a full-on war, and for what? It's just what Izamu says doesn't make sense with what I saw.

When I was little our village got attacked by dragon riders. I remember the screams and the blood, the smell of burning. My mother tried to hide me but I remember one of them finding us; a woman clad in bones and feathers with strange painted markings across her skin. I was terrified and I was going to cry, but she put a finger over my lips; and brought us outside. They only killed a few men and burned our houses. They gave a speech but I don't know what they said.

After that they just left."

"So, you think they're redeemable cause they don't always kill the whole village?"

"What I'm saying is, I'm not sure if they've ever killed a whole village. I think they might only attack in retaliation. They picked out the ones they killed with specificity; it wasn't random. Maybe they only kill those that deserve it? I remember not being very fond of the ones they took out: I was almost grateful."

"So, you think they only go after specific people? But why should that be factored into other attacks where there were no survivors? What if they just weren't in the mood that time? I mean you heard the stories"

"Exactly, the stories contradict between accounts… I don't know Tolz? But I remember after my dad died, I found some of his old things; I found a costume of bones and feathers. Then my mom burned it all. I think…"

"Hey, what are you two worms whispering about? Move to the center, me and Zep will guard the rear. Wouldn't want you two running out on us and leaving us open for attack."

Under his breath Tolz said. "Well, there goes our chance to save our skins."

"What was that worm?"

"Nothing."

The party of rangers marched on, finally passed the swamps; now deep into the valley as the sun reached its apex. They hiked up a mountain trying to avoid being spotted by any creatures that might give them away.

After some harrowing climbing and a couple close calls, they reached a vantage point where they could clearly see a camp in the distance atop a slight sloping plane on an adjacent mountain. They seemed to be getting ready for something. Their dragon's squawked and huffed, perched along the edge while others slept or soared. The rangers hid under foliage among the trees while those large looming shadows cast over them, praying they couldn't smell their stench of fear and sweat.

The rangers squatted there for about an hour watching the tribe. They saw some take off into the sky and others gently land carrying game of boar, deer or just flowers. They saw some kiss and hold their families, others painting swirls and patterns on each other. They saw children running and playing, women and elders mixing herbs and starting cook fires. You could hear some of their voices carry in the open space; the words were unrecognizable but the laughter was easy to understand.

Cozu whispered to the group. "I think they're having a party?"

The old man Izamu answered back. "They sure are, it's called Quetzhalice. It's a ritual they have in accordance with a particular astral alignment. To praise the greater dragon, they worship called Quetzalcoatl."

Izama chuckled softly then said.

"Okay, I think we've seen enough; Ezan pass me the bird. I'm gonna send the sheriff the signal. After I send this out, the brigade should be at the halfway mark by nightfall. Then, come dawn will be rid of these vermin."

Ezan passed Izamu a sanclaw. A rare species of bird you wouldn't typically find in the valley. He gave the small caged bird he carried on the side of his pack to the old man leading them. Izamu released the bird and watched for a moment as it flew back in the direction from where they'd come.

"Alright they should be able to spot that from their position. So, get some rest boys, in a few hours the fun begins."

Chapter 1 : Rite of Passage

The day started as it always did on this day, the capable hunters went out to gather for the feast, their mounts by their sides along for the fun. The elders prepare the altar and the herbs for the food. A constant bustle of motion all for the most sacred day of the year, Quetzhalice, when the sun and moon share equal time on the earth. When those who know how to look can see and connect to the heavenly beast Quetzalcoatl.

Today’s the day I will take my place in the tribe. Mother Amoztli will speak the legends of time and commune with the great beasts of our tribe’s past. She will give myself and the other’s their place in the world whether they be a hunter, gatherer, warrior or guide. I’ve been training all my life with my mount to prove we are warriors.

“Xochiquetzal, come and help place the flowers along the trail, then go and get ready for the feast” My mother called, interrupting my line of thought.

“Ayah ma, please just say Xo, my name is so long”

“Your father named you, for you were as light as a feather and precious to us as a flower that only blooms in the right temperament, sunlight and water”. She explained for the 100th time in my life since my father’s passing. I quickly threw the petals down along the trail and ran passed my mother kissing her cheek “Alright Ma, I am going to get ready” “Okay Flower, I finished your garm last night it’s already there”

I traveled quickly downstream to the shallow pool that fills with warm water that is used as our bath. I quickly disrobed and I washed and scrubbed with the other women, floral and citrus scents floating in the air, though I would usually relish in the communal baths and have my hair combed and braided by the others I jumped from the stream and dried as I ran into my hut.

There it was, the sacred garm hand crafted for me by my Ama and Pa, piece by piece collected and woven together, displaying our history, telling all of my place in my tribe. Some pieces are stone, feather, or bone, muted and bright, the perfect balance of beauty and horror.

It was perfect, my parents even wove in embroidered flowers with the beads and I remembered my Pa words “Pa, why did you name me after something so weak and fragile?” He gave me a stern look but responded with kindness “Flowers are misunderstood and often are overlooked but they can only thrive within perfect balance but they are not to be messed with as they will find their balance however necessary. They can overwhelm and smother other plants to get their fill or they can coexist and thrive among the others. So, flower, you just have to choose which you’ll be?” “I’ll be the one with thorns and vines Pa, that way I can have my weapons too” He laughed “Xoxo, I think you missed my whole point.” ''What was it then Pa?” “That you must choose balance, each situation will call to you and determine if you’ll have thorns or petals.” I smiled at the memory and put on my garmin, it fit perfectly only covering the necessary organs with plates along the arms and legs. “You look beautiful Xoxo” My mother said from behind me “Lets braid your hair, you'll be painted later before the moon reaches its peak.” “I know Ma, we have this ritual every year.”

I gazed at the sky watching the free beast fleet to and fro, their colorful scales glistening with the setting sun, the drums beating off the wind, the valley below quietly shifting from our vision. The prayers will begin as soon as the sun hits the peak in the next few minutes but there was a sensation in the air and Chusi, my dragon, rubbed her snout on my palm, nudging me in that way that I know she wants to fly. “Not now Chusi, it’s about to start” she huffed her snout. The horns blew and giddy excitement rushed through my veins, the paintings will begin with the last dying sun, the person of our choosing will paint as Mother Amoztli begins the prayers. It was supposed to be my father but I’m happy my mother will be in his place today too. The ancient tongue of the Mother could be heard, on cue all dipped their fingers into the paint and placed them on our skins. Just as the sun disappeared behind the peaks we heard the dragon's warning, then all I knew was chaos, beautiful chaos, as dragon fire lit up the night.

Torches, and pyres, all lit aflame. The dancer's blood ignited as they twirled and spun, dragging the flames to and fro, blinding and beautiful. Then the Dragons set their own, some just spouting in the air, the darkening sky, making it look like bursts of fire and light. The drummers began soon followed by low chanting that built as each person added their voice, layering and swelling with hums, and shouts, creating a beautiful medley. Shakers and strings soon came with soft singers too. I knew the dancing would start soon, an answer to the calling ritual. Boys and girls alike, fulfilling their destiny and answering the call for what their fate in the tribe will be. I looked around at the frolic, most dressed as they wished for the feast, some in plain cloth, others in their callings garm. Some with robes of bright colors to match the flame of their great beast whom they commune with. Others in simple practical cloth made of raw materials given by the earth; and some are like me, in warrior garbs handmade by their ancestral lines to display their pride and devotion to the tribe. I already knew my calling, there was no doubt that I would take my place among my people as their protector as my father was to them too.

As I watched in delight as the festivities went underway. The dragons were led back to their resting area. I drooled looking at all the choice meats and sweet fruits; starving I couldn't wait till after the ritual to finally eat. I tried to sneak a quick nibble when my mom smacked my hand. "Oww! But mom…" She smirked at my disappointment. "Ah, ah, ah, you know the rules. My little flower." “So then why would they leave it all on display for the taking? It’s too tempting!” I huffed. “Restraint flower, discipline, delayed reward, I can go on”

“No no, I know. I can’t wait until sunrise so I can finally eat. I was never meant for fasting, even if it is just from sunrise to sunrise” After making my way through the crowd, I went over to where the dragons were lazing. Oh to be free enough to fly away on my own. I sat and thought about all the times I tasted the skies with Chusi no one around to judge me. I can be free. I was petting Chusi, wishing she could be on the floor with me when I got my calling when some of the others walked over. "Thinking about taking off? Might as well, because I can already tell you what your calling is going to be." Atlacoya said as she smirked and after a cold laugh blurted. "One of my servants!" She cackled and said "You can be honored to wash my hair and my dragon's ass!" True to her name she certainly can suck up any moisture in the air, a drought to the world, why her parents named her so is beyond me. Then one of the others followed up with "Yeah, you can be the warrior of dung and slayer of manure!" They all shared a laugh. They stopped laughing when Chusi opened an eye and blew smoke from her nostrils, making them choke. Then we shared a laugh of our own before being interrupted by a voice.

"Don't mind them, they're just scared cause they're not sure where the calling will place them. They're not sure of themselves like you. You're confident, strong and fearless." I've heard those same words before, but coming from him made me blush; I tried not to smile. I wanted to show my appreciation for his kindness but all that came out was "So you're hoping to be a hunter?" He smirked and gestured to his garb. "Obviously right. I just want to provide for my people. Venture out and face dangers in hostile territories like the Mud waters or Cloud fall. All to give what I can back to the land and her people." Suddenly I felt dumb for pointing out the obvious. But then he smiled and said “you're going to make a great warrior and if war comes to us, we'll be side by side in battle protecting each other." Now I felt less dumb. He introduced himself "I'm Eztli” I just said "I know." Then the signal went out for us to take our places. My mother came and dragged me away, I swear she winked at me. "No time for cute boys." Embarrassed, I blurted. "Ma!" We all giggled as we took our places.

It was time for the calling part of the ritual and for us to take our turn on the floor. I was nervous but as the fire twirled and the snake was brought forth, bled and burned to anoint us we took our marks and inhaled the smoking venom, thanking the priest and without hesitation I took my place in the circle. We stood as the drums faded, all the music stopped and all sound became silent. We moved our hips and raised our arms, slowly the soft clinging tambourines started up again, then the shakers and strumming, finally the hard pounding of the drums. We moved our arms like water snakes and our legs like bore, stomping and digging, repeating the motion with the next beat of the drum; moving our hips to each side with the motion of the music, all while forming a circle, and moving that circle like a wheel as we stepped in unison to keep it in formation. Moving faster with the music till we were covered in sweat. I almost let myself get exhausted but I built up my endurance by always practicing, preparing for this moment when I would become a warrior.

Then came the visions, the one part I couldn't prepare myself for. I saw the stars begin to dance and twirl like if they were all connected to a string flipping around the earth like a chain of fire. I thought I might be sick, watching it as it went over and over. But I held on even with my body beginning to tire, my legs and arms getting heavier. Suddenly I thought, was I embarrassing myself? How long have I been dancing? Was the music still going? Did I miss the ritual trying to prove myself? I was worried but I just kept moving hoping I was wrong and I was. Finally, I came to and the music stopped as the priest and priestess entered the center and Mother Amoztli spoke. "It is time for the calling! As each of you youths step forward and receive your calling Quetzalcoatl will shine his light upon us and another year will be marked as you take your destined places in the tribe!" We all waited at the feet of the shaman. I could feel Quetzalcoatl's warmth getting closer as each of the names were called and given their destiny. "Cuicatl, a priestess! Eztli, a hunter! Nochehuatl, a builder!" On and on it went, until finally my name was called "Xochiquetzal, a…" Suddenly there was chaos as dragon fire rose with the sun and the sound of thunder when the Xentarz attacked.

The End

I know you want more…