https://pearlmag.co/the-dragon-master/
By Abigail E.L. Schopen
C.K. Slorra offers an exciting glimpse into a new fantasy world that feels fresh but dangerous. Readers get a feel for the social class division and a large dose of expertly-written fight sequences we will learn to expect from Slorra. Sensitive or queasy young readers may decide to tread carefully or wait a year, but the violence depicted fits in the story well and thrills the reader without unnecessary (or crude) thematics. The short story format does leave some confusion or at least an unfinished feeling to the world-building, however makes a perfect introduction to Slorra and the world of Xinyue, as well as being enticing to younger readers.
Sanav is a “broom boy” for a noble lord but also finds himself with extra duties for sneaking into training sessions. He has a grand imagination and yearns to be a hero. Another broom boy, Guo, leading two others, approaches and verbally abuses Sanav before physically ganging up and beating him. Sanav fights back, but Guo is bigger and Sanav is outnumbered.
When Sanav comes to, the bullies throw him into forbidden territory – The Pagoda of Lineages – and leave him there. Sanav imagines he already has a death sentence. Then to make matters worse, a soldier doesn’t discover him, but the dragon master himself. Sanav answers the master’s questions on why he’s here honestly, and follows the master as commanded. The master reveals he’s been unable to find anyone to elect as his scion. The dragon master displays a mysterious and formidable power, terrifying Sanav even more. He gives Sanav his signet and bids him to practice the power, and they’ll meet again at Sanav’s fight match.
Sanav does as told but awakes the morning before the match to Guo running away with the dragon signet. Sanav can’t catch up to Guo, so he pleads before his employer, Lord Jing. He doesn’t believe the story about the signet but he grants Sanav the ability to compete due to his work ethic and paying off his debts.
After suspenseful moment, the dragon master indeed arrives just in time for the match between Sanav and Guo. Guo goads Sanav, but Sanav digs deep into his mind and remembers his training. The fight is short, with Sanav redirecting Guo’s energy flawlessly and landing a powerful fist into Guo’s chest. The dragon master is pleased, and he welcomes Sanav into the dragon lineage.
A lot happens for a short story, and the action doesn’t slow down from downtrodden beginning to the wholesome end. It leaves the reader wondering what happens to Sanav when he enters the dragon lineage, and what exactly was that power the dragon master portrayed? Yet, the story has a complete ending with the match climax. I’d recommend this story to anyone, and not just because I’m writing on the author’s own website. ;)
By Abigail E.L. Schopen
