They met with Jinhai’s mentor, Ushai-Kala, at noon the following day, in a shaded antechamber at the base of the mountain, designed to receive informal guests of the temple. Ushai-Kala offered them tea, and Kalai gifted him a vegetable basket in return for his time. In the meantime, Tauran bit back his impatience, trying to control his restless leg. He’d never been one for formalities or pleasantries. At least, not when the health and safety of both dragons and people were at stake.
Tauran waited quietly as Kalai explained their situation to the master. Tauran knew in broad strokes what he was saying. Kalai had outlined it to him that morning, after Tauran had handed him the final half pill in the vial.
Kalai spoke about his arrival in Valreus, his work for Falka, Falka’s betrayal and what he was doing to the dragons. It was at that point, Tauran assumed, that Jinhai, who’d been sitting quietly obedient in the corner, perked up. He shared brief words with Kalai, who turned to Tauran.
“Jinhai has seen the Sky Guard fly over Kel Visal. A little over four months ago. It must have been when they stole the hatchlings.”
“And he’s sure it was the Sky Guard?” Tauran asked.
“He said it was people atop dragons wearing straps and saddles like on horses.”
“Could he tell which breeds the dragons were?”
Kalai translated, and Jinhai replied.
“A swiftwing, a statera, and a titan,” Kalai said. “He says the titan was far up and difficult to see, but he’s certain.”
“Catria, Roric and Falka. They were all here.” Tauran sighed. “So Roric has known the truth all along. He lied to me.”
Kalai’s expression was sympathetic. “We still don’t know which side he’s on. He could be trying to protect himself. Or you.”
Tauran nodded slowly. “They stole those babies directly from within Sharoani. Do the dragon masters know about this? Will they retaliate?”
Kalai exchanged a few words with Ushai-Kala. The old man looked troubled, his entire face drooping.
“They won’t,” Kalai said. “The Sharoani have always been a peaceful people. We don’t have an army. We’ve never had a reason to defend ourselves against anyone.”
Tauran shook his head. Falka saw this place as a free-for-all. A resource to strip for his own gains.
Kalai continued his story, and Tauran leaned back and waited. Based on Kalai’s expression, what Ushai-Kala said wasn’t good news. A moment later, Tauran’s suspicions were confirmed.
“Ushai-Kala says this matter is important enough to involve the Eldest. The Eldest is the only person who can call Ibi-shao, and Ushai-Kala believes that if we can help keep the wild dragons safe, it’s important to try…” Kalai trailed off.
“But?” Tauran asked.
“But the Eldest is ill. She has been for some time. As of late, she’s been too unwell to leave her bed.”
Tauran swore. “Could we still talk to her? If she can call Ibi-shao, she must know her well. Maybe we can ask the Eldest if there’s another way to attract her.”
Kalai relayed his question to Ushai-Kala, who looked thoughtful for a moment before he answered.
Kalai frowned. “He says he’ll escort us up to the Eldest’s chambers.”
“Up,” Tauran said. A shiver rolled down his spine. “How far up?”
Kalai held his gaze for a long moment. “Near the top.”
Tauran shook his head.
“I can make it,” Kalai said. “If we’re quick about it, I can make it.”
“Kalai…” Tauran hesitated. Kalai was already dealing with the effects of losing the doroxian pills. Surely, a fainting spell wouldn’t make it any easier on him.
“Please, Tau. This is so important. And you can’t talk to her alone.”
Tauran rubbed a hand over his mouth. He could argue that he could bring Jinhai instead, but he knew Kalai wouldn’t budge, not on this. “How soon can we go?”
“Straight away.”
Tauran took a deep breath. “Okay.” He leaned forward and took Kalai’s hand, gripping it tight. “But you tell me if you feel unwell. Promise me.”
“I promise.”
Kalai squeezed Tauran’s hand, then let it go. He opened the saddlebag he’d slung over his shoulder and dug both hands inside. Withdrawing four books and a folder, he held it out to Ushai-Kala.
Tauran looked between them as they spoke. Ushai-Kala looked genuinely shocked, but his expression turned to gratitude as he took the sacred texts from Kalai. Tauran couldn’t help but notice the way Kalai’s gaze lingered on the books. As much as it clearly pained Kalai to know he had placed so much of their contents in Falka’s hands,