Chapter Two

Sara

If Ferrin didn’t stop talking about how he planned to be the youngest member of the Directorate, Sara was going to fake food poisoning just to have a few moments to herself. She could go with the old standard—pretend she had to use the restroom, but she’d used that excuse so often he’d asked if she needed a medic.

Maybe she could steer him to another topic of conversation. “I heard we’re going to have a guest speaker in Economics.”

Ferrin paused and blinked like he was confused. “Who?”

“I don’t know. One of the newer Directorate members is going to give a presentation on each Clan’s role in the economy.”

“That’s hardly interesting,” Ferrin said. “Once I’m on the Directorate, I’ll make sure presentations are blah, blah, blah…”

Okay. He didn’t say blah blah blah but he might as well have, because he was back to talking at her rather than to her.

She cleared her throat. “Maybe we need a communication class that teaches the art of conversation. A class that discusses how it takes two people to have an engaging conversation rather than one person endlessly expounding on what they believe.”

Ferrin tilted his head and stared at her. “Honestly, if someone hasn’t figured that out by now they probably never will. Now back to what I was saying, before you so rudely interrupted me.”

She pressed her lips together and fantasized about smashing her cheese Danish in his face. But that would be a waste of a perfectly good pastry.

When breakfast ended, she should have felt relieved and she might have, if their first class wasn’t Proper Decorum. The class irritated her almost as much as Ferrin did. At least the class would eventually end. How the teacher, Mrs. Silvertrap, managed to talk about manners and place settings and appropriate social behavior for an hour every day was mind-boggling.

Sara had never understood the reason behind all the fake niceties. If you didn’t enjoy someone’s company why should you pretend you did? Odds were, the dislike was mutual. Being civil she understood, but pretending to enjoy certain things was a skill she didn’t possess. The only way to stay awake in class was by playing games. Today she’d count the number of times Mrs. Silvertrap used the word proper. Ten minutes into class she had fifteen tic marks on her paper.

“Sara, how many forks are required for a five course dinner?” Mrs. Silvertrap asked.

There was probably an appropriate answer but Sara went with the obvious. “As many as the caterer supplies?”

Students laughed.

“That is not an adequate answer,” the teacher snapped.

“Since I won’t be the one counting out the forks and setting the tables at whatever event I’m planning, I think it should be,” Sara shot back.

Mrs. Silvertrap frowned. “You might not be setting the tables yourself, but you will be supervising the staff who does. It’s important to know these things to save yourself from social embarrassment.”

“If an inept caterer used the wrong place settings,” Ferrin spoke in a voice that carried through the classroom. “Do you believe Blues would dare speak ill of the Westgate who hired them?”

Mrs. Silvertrap took a step backward. “Of course not.”

Okay, maybe Ferrin had his uses after all, and he had stepped up to help her, so she smiled at him. He nodded at her, but he appeared annoyed.

On their way to Elemental Science, he pulled her down a side hall. His expression was completely serious. “I interceded on your behalf because I won’t stand by while someone is being rude, but from here on out you need to think about how your actions reflect on the Westgate name.”

“Excuse me?”

“The response you gave in class was beneath your station.”

Wow. “I’m sorry, I wasn’t aware I’d been assigned a station that required me to answer stupid questions in a ridiculous class.”

Ferrin’s eyes narrowed. “You will be a Westgate and you best learn how to act like one.”

Oh really. She tried to hold the words inside but the dam of her self-control broke and the words poured out. “Should I tell everyone how great I am and brag about my father’s second-rate fortune?”

Ferrin’s face colored. His eyes went hard and cold and for a moment he stared at her…just stood there…seeping anger from every pore. Then without a word, he stalked off.

A thrill of victory shot through her body, quickly followed by the realization that she’d broken a cardinal rule. Blues never showed negative emotions in public. Never. They argued using a normal tone of voice, so no one else knew something was wrong. Anyone who’d heard what she’d said in that angry voice definitely knew they weren’t having a pleasant conversation. Holy hell. What have I done? She backed up and slumped against the wall, closing her eyes. She should not have said those things…even if they were true.

“Are you okay?” A somewhat familiar voice asked.

She opened her eyes and saw the Red from the library. What was his name…Ivan…no, Ian. “Yes. Just wishing I had a filter for my mouth.”

He chuckled. “I heard what you said, and you’re not wrong.”

She sucked in a breath and scanned the hallway. “Did anyone else hear?”

He shook his head. “Just me. I was coming back from the restroom.”

“Thank God.” Her parents would be furious if they knew she’d spoken to Ferrin like that.

Ian checked his watch. “We should go to class.”

She’d rather stay out here and talk to him. Instead they headed to Economics. She took her seat next to Ferrin. He didn’t glance her way. Not the end of the world. She might be better off if he stayed mad for a while. At least he wouldn’t follow her everywhere, demanding all of her time.

There was a strange squiggling sensation in her stomach. It felt like guilt. Ferrin behaved the way he did because it was how he’d been taught to behave. Maybe they could clear the air and come to some sort of understanding. She’d attempt to be more appropriate in class if he curbed his…what…bragging? She couldn’t very well say that.

“Today we have a guest speaker,” their Economics teacher Mr. Clayton said, as he stood behind his desk. Like they wouldn’t notice the Blue adult male standing next to him. “This is Mr. Seaborn. He’s taken time away from his busy schedule to talk to you about how each Clan’s role in our society is vital.”

Mr. Seaborn surveyed the class. “I’d rather not lecture you, so I’m hoping you’ll raise your hands and contribute to the discussion. Let’s start with some basic questions, because I’m interested in understanding your perception of our society. And there is only one rule I’d like you to follow. You are not allowed to answer questions about your own Clan.”

Students shifted in their seats. This felt like some sort of test.

“Let’s begin. What role do Green Dragons play?”

An Orange female named Helani raised her hand. Mr. Seaborn nodded at her.

“Greens are the most analytical, some say the smartest dragons, so they are our teachers and scientists. They are gifted in manipulating Quintessence, so they become medics.”

“Correct. Using their own life-force to heal another dragon is an amazing skill. It’s important that Greens play this role. Now what about Orange Dragons?”

A Black Dragon raised his hand. “Due to their sonic waves and their affinity with the earth they’re the farmers and the miners.” He paused. “Orange Dragons channel their life-force into plants to help them grow, so why can’t they heal dragons like Greens do?”

Mr. Seaborn smiled. “Quintessence is the essence of life. All dragons have the ability to manipulate it to a certain extent, but each Clan has its specialty. Just another example of why all of our roles are important. Now, what about Black Dragons?”

Ian raised his hand. “They are the most creative so they are the artists and entertainers.”

“And Red Dragons?”

Ferrin raised his hand. “They are the strongest so they make up the militia. They’re also the Clan that runs most of the businesses.”

“And Blues?”

A Green male named Einstein raised his hand. “They are the fastest fliers but that doesn’t correlate to their position in society. They are the lawmakers and the elite and they have a strong desire for power and control.”

Blues in the class bristled and muttered.

“That is an interesting answer,” Mr. Seaborn said.

“I was going for analytical rather than polite,” the Green responded.

“Another trait innate to your Clan,” Mr. Seaborn said. “I’m sure you ruffled the feathers of some of your fellow students. That is something I am here to discuss today. Blues do control our society. We, and by we I mean the Directorate, maintain power over the Clans to protect them. Everything we do is done to keep dragons safe and to keep our society moving forward.”

A Red raised his hand. “My uncle’s business was taken over by the Directorate for the good of the Clans. Can you explain that, because I don’t understand why he can’t manage the business he created?”

“Blues have always been the CEOs of companies. Once businesses grow to a certain size it wouldn’t be right to expect a Red to handle that level of commerce,” Mr. Seaborn said.

That was taking condescension to a new level. Sara raised her hand. “Why couldn’t a Red hire a Green to teach him how to run the business?”

“I’m surprised you’d ask that question,” Mr. Seaborn said. “Since your father is the Speaker for the Directorate.”

She sat up straighter. “I would never ask my father that question because it would make him angry. He might think I was questioning how the Directorate operates. This is a class. And you’re here as a guest lecturer, so I can ask you. We are here to learn after all, are we not?”

“We are,” Mr. Clayton said. “And I’m sure you’re not the only student in this room who wondered about that, but apparently you are the only one impulsive enough and secure enough in your position in dragon hierarchy to ask such an inappropriate question. Mr. Seaborn, would you like to answer Sara’s question or would you prefer I handle it?”

“The answer,” Mr. Seaborn said in a less than amused tone, “is that Blues must maintain control of the economy for the good of all. If a dragon from another Clan reaches a financial level that exceeds his peers, it will cause unrest. Every position, no matter what the career or job description…every Red, Orange, Black, and Green Dragon…every teacher, miner, painter is paid a livable wage. Everyone has enough money to meet their needs and live comfortably, including the humans who live in Dragon’s Bluff. They keep the Institute a secret and we provide them with a livable wage. As the descendants of knights who used to fight side by side with us, they are still part of our community, so we take care of them in the same way that we take care of all the Dragon Clans. The wealth of our society is controlled and maintained by Blues because it’s what we’ve done for centuries and it is what we will continue to do for the good of all. In the past, before the Directorate, Dragon Clans fought for territory and resources and treasure. And when I say fought, I mean to the death. Dragons killed Dragons for diamonds, gold, and land. Needless deaths are now avoided, thanks to the civilizing action of the Directorate. Each Clan is assigned a role based on its strengths.”

“Reds are the middle class who run the businesses where we all purchase goods. They are the backbone of the economy. Black Dragons entertain us with their talents and create beautiful works of art for us to purchase. Green Dragons teach us and tend to our health. Orange Dragons produce the food we all need to survive and mine the diamonds and gold that our economy is based on. Blues control the flow of money and purchase goods and services, thereby supporting the rest of the Clans. Our society is based on what is best for everyone. When a business is taken over or when a marriage petition is denied, resentment is understandable. But overall, you can be assured the Directorate is looking out for the welfare of all the Clans.” He checked his watch. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I have another appointment.” He exited the room.

Ian pointed at Sara. “You’re my new hero.”

Sara beamed. “I knew I was the only one who could get away with asking, so I did.”

Ferrin didn’t comment but if his clenched jaw muscle was any indication, he was less than pleased. Too bad. He gave her the silent treatment for the rest of the day. Was he angry about what she’d said in the hallway or because of the way she’d behaved in class?

Honestly, she felt a bit bad about what she’d said to him, so she probably should apologize for that, but she’d never apologize for asking questions that made him or other Blues uncomfortable.

After their last class she and Ferrin headed to the Blue dorm. As they walked up the steps, people nodded in recognition. She responded in kind. When they reached her door, she said, “May I speak to you for a moment? In private?”

He didn’t reply, but he didn’t walk away, either, so she opened her dorm room with the key and headed inside. He followed. After setting her book bag on the coffee table, she faced him.

“Ferrin, I’m sorry about what I said earlier. It was rude.” Even if it was true.

He stood there like he was waiting for more. What did he expect her to say?

“That’s all I had prepared,” Sara said. “Would you like to add to the conversation?”

“You’re a Blue,” Ferrin stated like she’d missed an obvious point. “You should act like one.”

“My mother has tried that argument for years.” Sara forced a laugh. “It didn’t take.”

He reached up to loosen his tie. “Blues never air their grievances in public. Never. Public perception is vital. If the other Clans see us arguing then they’ll question how we rule. That cannot happen. We must present a united front. Do you understand?”

No. She didn’t. No one was perfect. People should be allowed to disagree or argue in public if they felt like it. But that answer would lead to more tension between them, and she needed to make peace with Ferrin because she had to live with him for the rest of her life…so she nodded.

“And the question you asked in class—that was wrong.”

Wait. What? “No it wasn’t. I’m allowed to ask questions.”

“Once again, you may ask a question…but in private. Asking those types of questions in public makes you sound disloyal to your Clan.”

“Are you kidding me? I am loyal to my Clan. I’m going along with this marriage contract even though it’s obvious we are incompatible.”

Ferrin dropped his book bag. “Excuse me?”

“Name one thing you like about me.”

“What?” He seemed truly perplexed.

“On paper we are a good match because we come from the top two families and our offspring will be attractive and intelligent, but what do you like about me?”

“This conversation is ridiculous.”

“Please.” She took a step toward him. “Just one thing. Give me one reason you want to be around me, because I don’t understand. You tell me all your plans for the future but you don’t actually talk to me.”

“I talk to you all day long,” Ferrin said.

“No.” Dear God how did he not understand? “You talk at me. You share your ideas but you never discuss anything with me.”

He blinked. “You want me to ask your opinion on things?”

“That would be a good start. We could take turns picking topics. I…” She didn’t know how to explain. “I want to feel like you actually like me and not just my pedigree.”

Ferrin ran his hand back through his hair, leaving it a bit disheveled. “This is absurd. Did you ever stop to wonder why I tell you all my plans?”

She shook her head.

“I was trying to impress you with my initiative.”

“Oh.” She’d never thought of it like that.

“You did mention my family’s second-rate fortune earlier today,” he said in an amused tone.

Wow. He’d been trying to show her he was worthy. “Both our families have more money than any Dragon could spend in a lifetime. Your family’s lineage and fortune are impressive. I want to move past that. I want us to talk more about things we both like. Maybe have a laugh, not be so serious all the time.”

“I will curb my impulse to talk about my future plans if you curb your non-Blue behavior in public.”

She was going to let that description go for the sake of hopefully making this relationship something she could live with—maybe even enjoy. “I will be on my best Blue behavior if you work on your conversational skills.”

“Agreed.” He picked up his book bag. “I’ll meet you here in an hour and we can walk to dinner together and you can pick the first topic of conversation.”

“Thank you.” It felt like a weight had lifted off her shoulders.

…

Ian

After dinner, Ian went to the gym to run on a treadmill. He could have run the track but he wasn’t in the mood to race. Reds were competitive. It was in their nature, but right now all he wanted to do was run and clear his head. Watching Sara handle that Directorate member had been the highlight of his day. She had balls. Which was a strange thing to think about a girl.

That Ferrin, though…he seemed impossible. Were any of the Blues happily married? Who knew? And why was he thinking about her? They weren’t friends…but maybe they could be. Getting to know someone from another Clan could be fun. For some reason he wanted to keep an eye on her. Not that she couldn’t take care of herself, but still.

The next day, Mr. Clayton leaned against his desk drinking a cup of coffee. “After yesterday I decided it might be a good idea for some of you to get to know other Clan members a little better as individuals. Today you will pair up with someone from another Clan to answer some basic questions. What you don’t complete in class will be homework.”

Ian stood and moved between the desks, making his way over to Sara before someone else joined her. He didn’t have to rush. All the other students were mingling in an easy manner; Reds, Greens, Blacks, and Oranges were moving to sit with one another. The Blues hung back, watching and waiting. Maybe they were hoping they could stay together.

Ian plopped down in a chair next to Sara. “Want to pair up?”

Ferrin raised an eyebrow at him. “Don’t I know you from somewhere?”

“Stairwell at the library.” Ian pointed at Sara. “I guess she’s who you were looking for.”

Ferrin nodded. “She was.”

“I’m Ian.” He leaned back in his seat. “Shouldn’t you go find someone to partner with?”

“This assignment is pointless.” Ferrin stood and walked across the room.

Ian leaned in and spoke in a whisper. “He seems open-minded.”

She chuckled. “I don’t believe that’s a Westgate trait.”

Someone tapped Ian on the shoulder. He turned and accepted the stack of papers his classmate shoved at him. “Must be the questions.” He took two and passed the stack to the next row and then handed one to Sara.

She scanned the paper. “I’m supposed to ask you questions about your daily life at home…this does seem odd.”

“Better than listening to a lecture.” He read the first question out loud. “When you’re at home, where do you eat dinner?”

“In the small dining room,” Sara said, “Or in the atrium.”

He wrote down her answer. Atrium…wasn’t that like a green house? “Where’s the atrium?” That question wouldn’t make him look too stupid.

Sara blinked at him. “The second floor…why?”

He grinned. “When I hear atrium I think a greenhouse in someone’s backyard.”

“It’s my mother’s pride and joy,” Sara said. “She grows orchids, lilies, and a bunch of other flowers she’s tried to teach me about, but I don’t have a knack for flowers like she does. Your turn. Where do you eat dinner?”

“In the kitchen mostly. We use the dining room when people come over.” A funny thought popped up in his brain. “You said small dining room. How many dining rooms do you have?”

Sara stared off into space like she was thinking about it. “If dining room means a table with chairs where people can eat then…maybe five? I’m not sure if the ballrooms count.”

“Ballrooms?” Ian laughed. “You need more than one?”

She struck a haughty pose. “Guests must have room to move about without feeling crowded, but if it’s a smaller gathering, say fifty or so, you don’t want your guests to feel overwhelmed by the size of the room.”

“Right.” Ian laughed. “That would be a tragedy.”

“That was me channeling my mother.” Sara glanced at the paper. “Next question… Who does your laundry?”

“My mom taught me how to use the washing machine when I was thirteen. Do you even know where the washing machine is in your mansion?”

Sara wrote down his answer before replying. “If I had to guess, I’d say it’s off the kitchen somewhere. But I don’t actually know.”

“So if the maid took the day off, what would you do?” Ian asked.

“With the way my mother shops, our washing machine could be broken for several months and I’d never notice.”

“Really?”

“She claims buying clothes keeps the economy moving, and I guess it does, but I think she enjoys shopping.”

Ian read farther down the page. “Are these questions supposed to show us how different we are?”

“Maybe.” Sara ran her finger down the paper. “If you’d partnered with a Black, Green, or Orange Dragon do you think their answers would be that much different than yours?”

“I don’t know.” Ian glanced over his shoulder. “I wanted to partner with you because I’ve never talked to a Blue. Are there other Blues like you?”

“If there are, I haven’t found them.” Sara sat up straighter. “Ferrin, are you done already?”

“The questions weren’t difficult.” He glanced at her paper. “You’ve filled out only two questions and class ends in five minutes.”

“I guess we’ll have to get together after dinner to finish.” Which means I can spend more time with her. Where could they meet without attracting attention? “We could meet in the library.”

“Why don’t we meet at the front desk at seven,” Sara suggested.

“I’ll walk you there and work on another assignment,” Ferrin interjected.

“Sounds great.” The bell rang and Ian headed back to his former seat where he’d left his backpack. Too bad Ferrin invited himself along. Sara probably thought that every day of her life.