Aetherra; by Isaac Ostlund; Chapter 2, Reunion, Part 3

A few minutes before Brant entered the Hall, Pon stood before the Quorum somewhat impatiently. Part of her wanted to be done with this whole thing just so she could get back outside, but a greater part of her wanted everyone to realize how amazing Noblin really was.

“May I speak?” Pon asked, louder than she had intended.

Dima had been about to say something but she turned to Pon and nodded. “You may.”

“I understand why you are afraid. Brossen are powerful and dangerous, but this is exactly why I feel safe around Noblin. He guards me like they do each other, and it can be that way for the rest of the village too. He is strong. He could protect us, I know he could.”

The Quorum watched her for a moment.

“The girl has a point Dima,” Gevan said finally. “If she really has tamed a brossen to that extent, can you imagine how useful that would be? The strength of the beast alone could change everything about the way we live.”

“Change is not always good Gevan,” warned Yara.

“Nor is it always bad.” Dima mused, gazing at Pon intently.

Dima continued, “My greatest fear is for the rest of Kressing. The creature is obviously loyal to Pon, but how do you know it will treat others the same?”

“If we are careful I think he can get used to being here.” Pon replied. “A few of the braver men in the village have already approached him. He was aggressive at first but he is calming down a lot. Although, he does growl at them if they get close when I am not around, so um, that might be an issue.”

“Is that so…” Dima said slowly, again watching Pon.

After a minute the old woman spoke, “Very well. I am satisfied, for now.”

“As am I,” replied Gevan. “Certain steps will have to be taken. For one, it cannot stay too near the village.”

“Yes, and we will need to alleviate the fears the others have,” Dima said. “Despite the danger it seems we have little choice but to accept the risks, we must take this chance.”

“Indeed.” Yara said, addressing Pon. “What you have done is quite remarkable, but you must be careful, everyone will be watching you, for good and ill.” Yara said.

“Just a moment, Pon,” said Gevan, leaning back to talk to the others. The three began whispering to one another, rapidly discussing something that Pon could not hear.

Pon stood quietly, wondering if Hoblin was staying where she had told him. He was obedient, usually, but sometimes he got a little curious. Waiting as patiently as she could her eyes began to wander. It was then that she noticed the bearded man standing in the doorway of the hall. He looked worn and dirty, rough black hair flowing into a thick beard. He was wearing heavy leather boots and furs, obviously returning from farther north. The man wasn’t old, barely in his twenties maybe, but he looked strong enough lift a wagon. He matched her gaze with dark eyes. Oh! It’s Brant! Pon realized.

Pon had always liked Brant. He seemed to understand why someone would want to spend so much time in the forest, and he never told her off for staying out all day.

“Brant!” Pon called out with a wave.
The quorum, which had still been whispering to each other, suddenly stopped talking.
                Gevan stood and spoke, “Brant!? Just a moment, I believe we are about to reach a decision.”

Gevan turned to the others of the quorum. “Shall we?” He asked.

Dima and Yara nodded and rose to stand next to him.

“Pon,” Gevan said decisively. “You have accomplished something none before you even thought possible. While there is much to discuss this much is clear: You are as capable as any adult, and are worthy to be considered such. As of this moment you are proven, as recognized by the Quorum and all of Kressing.”

The three spoke in unison, “Behold Pon, no longer child. May all approach for her wisdom.” Each bowed ceremoniously to the young girl.

Pon jumped into the air and shouted “Yes!”

Yara laughed, and then turned serious again. “Pon, you understand that this is a huge responsibility. Your token reflects your role in the village. Everyone will come to you for answers about this.”

“I am aware.” Pon said.

“Many will still treat you as a child,” Yara said. “Remember that there is much you must learn. Be open to advice Pon, but know that you have our support. You make your own choices now.”

 “It’s not like she didn’t already.” Gevan laughed, and then stopped as he remembered Brant’s sudden appearance.

“Brant, come forward son, why are you here?” Gevan asked.

Brant moved around the fire and stood next to Pon. He looked at her for a moment and said quietly, “Congratulations Pon, and sorry. This should be your day, but this is real important.”
                He then turned to address the quorum and stood upright, seeming a different person as he spoke.

“I return early to bring dire news. I have seen a dragon.”