Chap. 46 The Winged Taxi

Chap. 46  The Winged Taxi

"Before I forget, sir, " K'ndar said to Rahman, the astronomer, "I'd like to thank you for sending the books to me. I've just finished them and by the egg, I've learned so much. I would like more, please, if that's possible."

The old man smiled.

"Oh, it's possible, my lad, no doubt. I'd be glad to lend you some more, on whatever subject we have in Landing's library. Rendel did explain what a library is, did he not?"

K'ndar busied himself with making last minute adjustments to the man's riding straps.

"He did, sir. I was disappointed, at first, that I wasn't going to be able to keep them, but now I understand. It's a good idea, a library. I hope the Weyr gets more books. A LOT more."

"They're printing more books as we speak. Aivas might be dead, but we still have access to his data, and it's being published as fast as the printers can set type."

That was a bit above K'ndar's understanding, but, he had a feeling he'd soon learn. He felt a bit of embarrassment at what felt like special treatment. 

"Why me, sir? There are plenty of more experienced riders here who could take you to Landing."

"My dear K'ndar, there is a method to my madness. You indicated a desire to read, to learn, to open your mind. Not to denigrate dragonriders, but only the youngsters like yourself seem willing to do so. I would like to see you go further in your learning, especially once thread stops falling. It's why I asked for you to transport me. I would even like-although I don't know if your Weyrleader would approve it, for you to be my permanent transporter."

"Permanent? Like I take you all over Pern?"

"All over Pern. Well, at least all over Southern, but I do make it up north several times a year. Would you like that?"

K'ndar thought about it. The concept was attractive, no doubt. Not having to fight Thread? Going everywhere on Pern? He'd always had wanderlust in his soul. But friendships he'd established with his team mates, his sister Glyena, and loyalty to his wingleader interfered. The loner in his soul, and the dragonrider in his mind, warred.

"I don't know how that would affect the wing, sir," he said, more out of duty than conviction.

"I will let you think about it, then. The offer stands whenever you choose. I admit the thought just hit me, so I would have to speak with the Weyrleader first. As you might guess, he might not approve. So don't get your hopes set too high, just yet."

"I won't, but I must admit I like the idea."

"Did you read the book about Aivas?"

"I DID. I found it…fascinating."

"Well, keep the map of Landing in your mind. You will need it. I don't mean to sound condescending, but Landing, for a lad like you who has never been anywhere but your hold or the weyr is awe inspiring. It's complex, and even frightening, to some. Once we get there, I will hand you over to one of the folks living and working there. He or she will escort you around and answer any questions you will undoubtedly have. If you get lost, just ask to be shown to my quarters. I told the Weyrleader you may have to stay a few days. Are you prepared for that?"

"He was willing to release me?"

"Aye. Said there was nothing on the schedule for sweeps or fighting thread for at least a seven….a week." 

He thought about it for a few moments. "I would need to take some oil for Raventh."

"Everything one needs for caring for a dragon is already at Landing, to include herdbeasts and oil. And, of course, you can always come back here to pick up what you might need."

"Duh. You're right. Then, sir, I would say that yes, I'm prepared for a few nights at Landing."

He mounted Raventh and summoned Siskin. The fire lizard wrapped himself around K'ndar's neck.

"Before we go, sir…who is McDuff?"

Rahman laughed.