Theft of Dragons (Princes of Naverstrom) by John Forrester Page B

Bishop's melodious voice interrupted Tael's reverie. "Whatever troubles you may have experienced in the past can be purged and washed clean. You will find protection and peace in the Calathian Church."
    Even protection against the Black Heart assassins? Tael sighed, and dropped the wriggling fish into the cook's bag, realizing that the Calathian Church was probably the best place for him to seek shelter. If he could stand being in an organization he despised. It stood for everything his father and grandfather opposed. Joining the Order of the Calathian Knights would be like driving a knife into his grandfather's heart.
    "You are kind to show interest and potential in someone like me." Tael fixed worried eyes on the Bishop. "But I must respectfully decline your offer. I feel I am unworthy of such an illustrious Order. "
    The Bishop bowed his head in a gesture of polite retreat, and Tael went back to the fishing. But Bishop Draven's words haunted him as he scanned the water for signs of movement. I can see you have an honest soul...purged and washed clean...find protection. Tael was tired of running for so many years after his father's death. And perhaps by joining such an Order he could gain valuable information in seeking revenge against the King? Now there was an idea. What was the proverb his grandfather had taught him? Friends will always crowd your table, but ensure there is always room for enemies to stay as close to you as the blade at your side .
    Maybe he should seriously consider the Bishop's offer. There were many advantages of belonging to the Order. Wasn't it located close to the King's palace? Being near the King might offer him a chance for revenge...
    "Pardon my intrusion," Bishop Draven said, "but perhaps I have a possible suggestion that might ameliorate your feeling of unworthiness. I imagine a small test of initiation, done by Lord Balgron himself, might allow him to properly evaluate you as a candidate for entrance into the Order. And there would be no commitment on your part during the testing. If you decided you still felt unsuited for the Order, you would be free to go. I even imagine Lord Balgron himself would grant you a writ of recommendation to the grand arena master—in case you decide a life as a gladiator is a better fit for you."
    Now that was an offer worth considering. A writ of recommendation would mean he'd likely gain entry into the elite gladiator training program, and he'd avoid facing countless fights against criminals intent on proving their innocence to the gods. Less bloodshed, less wounds, less time spent in recovery. He'd seen it himself in prior arena battles. His grandfather had taken him countless times when he was a boy, and even a few times while passing through the capitol. The grand arena was filled with throngs of bloodthirsty commoners hopeful of winning small fortunes on their favorite gladiator. The constant stream of challengers bent on displaying their combat skills and making a name for themselves, all hopeful of receiving a coveted spot as a named gladiator. In all the years Tael had only seen one challenger successfully gain the honored position.  
    Poor odds, Tael thought, and looked up at Bishop Draven. "You are kind to me, Your Excellency. I thank the gods that our paths have crossed. After contemplating your offer, I humbly accept." He bowed his head to the Bishop. "You've made my burden lighter on this trip, knowing that I will have such a grand opportunity in Trikar. But do you really think I have a chance?"
    Bishop Draven coughed a mocking cough, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "From what I saw that night in Perinith, Lord Balgron would be a fool not to admit you into the Order. The real question is whether you're ready to commit to joining the Order of Calathian Knights. A question you would be wise to ponder over our long journey back to the capitol."

Chapter Ten

    IN THE WEEKS following the night of the wedding feast, Sebine found herself feeling morose