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Can a trio of shipwrecked newbies help preserve Dinotopia's legendary peace and harmony? |
| At the breakfast table next morning, Phil appeared practically radiant from his ride with Bric. The others couldn't help but notice, and I overheard two of them conversing among themselves: "It looks like Phil's got that Dolphinback glow," said one to the other. "Yeah, it's that silly feeling that nothing ever goes wrong here, like it's paradise or something." "Do you think we should set him straight?" "Nah, he'll discover the truth in his own time. Everybody does. Once that happens, a few go bad the way Lee Crabb did. But most adjust to a balanced view of Dinotopia and keep their wits about them." "Hopefully, Phil takes the latter course, yet I'm a bit worried -- because right now, he's higher than a Brach's head. It's an awfully long way down from where he's at." Presently, the other noticed Phil and Stephanie climbing their way to the weather station. "Yes, literally as well as figuratively." At the station, Stephanie saw it first. "Look, Phil, a messenger bird must have left this." Phil beamed with excitement as he read the note. "My shipmates George and Eddie have earned a little vacation, and they plan on spending it here in Treetown! This is wonder on top of wonderful. It's been six months since we were last together. We have sooo much to catch up on! Steph, could I ask you to take care of the morning observation? I must go right away and make the necessary arrangements for my friends." By now Stephanie had learned the routine. It's the first time she did it by herself, yet she carefully began the measurements and would soon write up the report. Phil bounded down the ladder and made a beeline to the Matriarch's tree to secure guest accommodations for his good friends. "Yes, I know they're just Dolphinbacks like me," he explained. "Yet both George and Eddie already have vital occupations in the service of Dinotopia. So, if there's any room in the VIP tree, please see if we can accommodate them there." "Well, we're not expecting any dignitaries during their stay, so I'll see what can be done." "I'm so grateful to you, Matriarch Esmerelda." As Phil walked the path back, he wondered how things could possibly get better than they were. The days up to his friends' arrival were a blur of happy activity. Making the three daily observations, working and playing with the students, teaching his class, and keeping up with all the goings-on in Treetown. Justin had returned from the field trip all enamored with the ways of the Skybax and their Riders. The village elders had designed this annual field trip to peer inside the very hearts of these prospective cadets. Some after seeing what was involved and demanded, quickly decided it wasn't for them. Others were drawn to the spirit of service despite their initial terror over the dangers of flight -- often these made the best Riders, in the manner of the legendary David Scott. Still others ate it up and hungered for more. Justin was of this latter kind. From then on, two things filled his mind -- Skybax riding and Stephanie, not necessarily in that order. Of course, Phil was happy for them both. Should Justin proceed to Skybax camp, Phil would do what he could to have Stephanie finish her meteorological training in Canyon City. If he lacked the authority to make this happen, he'd find the one who does and reason and plead and grovel and beg for as long as it took. |
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