4 In a Pickle

CHAPTER 4

In a Pickle Lucas punched his pillow. He didn't want to go to Flatfrost—and, even worse, what if Ruskin had to go to Crestwood for a long time? How will I live without him? Lucas wondered. His dragon had become his faithful companion. Lucas loved to spend time with Clara, too, but she was often busy. Clara had school most days, and then she had to make bread deliveries with her father.

But Ruskin was always there for Lucas. Lucas buried his face in his pillow. What if Ruskin can't be trained? he thought. What if he never comes back? Lucas stared at the ceiling. A few minutes later he was called for dinner, but he didn't feel like eating. He yawned, and soon he fell fast asleep.

In the morning, sun streamed through the turret windows and Lucas's eyes popped wide open. His mother sat on the edge of the bed. "I brought hot chocolate," she said, setting the mug down. Lucas sat up and rubbed his eyes. Then he remembered his father's punishment.

"Oh, Mother!" wailed Lucas. "Do I really have to go to Flatfrost?" "Yes," said the queen as she gently stroked Lucas's forehead with her fingertips. "You and Ruskin must learn to respect people and their work."

Flatfrost was in the mountains, where it snowed year round. Lucas had passed by Flatfrost on horseback, but he'd never traveled into the mountains. "Clara will also go with you," his mother went on. "Her parents would like her to apologize to the giants too." "How long will we have to be there?" asked Lucas. "Until the ice is cut." "And how long will that take?"