2 The Knight of Thornwood

CHAPTER 2

The Knight of Thornwood Lucas climbed the arena's fence and sat on the highest rail. His friend Clara waved from on top of her horse, Scallop. Lucas waved back. Then he watched Clara put Scallop through her paces. First they trotted around the arena. Then they cantered. And finally they galloped a lap. Clara pulled back on Scallop's reins and trotted toward Lucas. The prince yanked a carrot from his back pocket. Scallop munched it from the palm of his hand.

"You two make a great team," Lucas commented. Clara patted Scallop and smiled. "I'm thinking of entering the horse race at the Grand Tournament," she said. "You should!" Lucas exclaimed. "But it's all boys," Clara said. "And when has that ever stopped you?" questioned Lucas.

Clara laughed. "True," she said. "You should feel proud to be the only girl," said Lucas. Clara liked that idea. Then she noticed something unusual. "Where's Ruskin?" she asked. Lucas never went anywhere without him. "He's up there!" said Lucas, pointing to the sky.

该页暂无翻译

Clara saw the dragons of Crestwood soar overhead. Ruskin, the youngest and smallest dragon, led the way. "He's been practicing for the tournament," Lucas said. The dragons swooped into a loop de loop. "Wow, Ruskin's gotten really good," said Clara. "He's come a long way," agreed Lucas. Then the arena's iron gate squeaked and swung open. A group of knights entered, followed by their squires. Each squire carried his knight's shield and led his horse.