Reigning Fear. 25.

It was late in the evening as Insa flew high over the lands of Tir Na. After he had left New Keanna he had called out to any dragons he could find and received no answer. He didn't un
derstand, He knew Jayce and the Shadows were away from New Keanna and Ariel and Toric were gone too. Something must be blocking his communications. It could only be something Tayor Larin was doing. He wondered what had happened in Winterhaven since he had left. In his dream state he had seen many of the things that had happened. But as of late he had been so weak, even his dreams were blank. Jax had filled in some of the details before he had left. Now Insa thought he would need a little help if he was going to wake the dragons and fight against Tayor and his adversary.
Below him he saw the lights of the Wolves Lair blazing as he passed over. Everything there looked well. Insa tilted his wings and dropped down to land right outside of the city.
[ Tof.] He sent out.
[ Insa?] He heard. [ Your awake! That's great. What's going on in New Keanna? I've been trying to reach Jandar and I can't.]
[ I'm here in the Lair.] Insa told him. [ We need to talk.]
[ Come on to the Manor.] Tof told him. [ I'll be waiting.]
[ I'm on my way.]
Insa spread his arms and shifted to a cloud of smoke and drifted through the lair and on to the Manor. He saw the people of Tir Na going about their normal nightly business. Things here were just fine. Tayor Larins influences hadn't reached here yet. But it would very soon, that he knew. Ahead of him stood Tyr manor all ablaze with light and life. Insa settled at the door and shifted back to himself and knocked at the door. The door open and there stood Sharone smiling at him.
" Professor Insa." She smiled waving him in. " Come in. We've been so worried about what's been going on."
" Thank you dear." He said. " I'm glad your all fine here. Where's Tof. I have to speak with him."
" I'm here." He heard from off to the left. He turned and there stood Tof waiting for him his handsome smile beaming in relief to see his friend. Tof walked to the door his hand extended to greet him. " Things are beginning to get crazy again. Jandar told me of what was happening in Winterhaven. But he didn't get to finish, now I can't contact anyone in New Keanna. What's going on."
" We have a lot to talk about." Insa turned to Sharone. " Pardon us my dear."
" I'll get tea and bring it in for you all." She smiled leaving them and heading for the kitchen.
" Thank you Sharone." Tof called. " Come into the study. I have someone you should meet."
As they entered the study. Insa saw Cheshire who got up and padded to him and rubbed against his legs. He ran his hand along the top of his head greeting his old friend.
" It's goods to see you." Insa smiled as Cheshire purred licking his hand. Over in the corner of the room stood another man. He was younger then Jandar and a little older the Tof. He was dressed in the house browns of the Tyr family which meant he was not a stranger here. On a couch sat a young girl wrapped in a blanket dressed in a beige pants and top. She was very pretty Insa thought but with a very serious worried look on her face. Tof closed the door and walked to Insa.
" May I introduce my soon to be brother in law Aggar Fen." Aggar reached out and shook Insa's hands greeting him. " He and Sharone will marry in just a few months. He is the captain of all the Lairs security."
" Pleasure to meet you." Aggar smiled gripping Insa's arm..
" My congratulation on your upcoming nuptials." Insa added. He turned to the young girl waiting. " And who is this looking so worried."
" This is Keya Thorn." Tof introduced them. Insa bowed and took her hand kissing its back.
" Greetings Lady Thorn." Insa smiled.
" It seems we have a problem in Remus." Tof explained. " It's been invaded by Winterhaven."
" What!!" Insa looked at them all shocked. He knew Tayor Larin had ambition, but he thought Winterhaven was the object of his desire. Now he knew better.
" It seems Keya's brother Raf was in Winterhaven during the take over and he was captured." Tof walked over and sat down behind the desk. " Somehow news got back to Remus that he had escaped with some help from some faction in the city and he was returned home."
" Yes." She continued in her sweet voice. " We were all glad he was safe. But what came home was not really my brother."
" What do you mean?" Insa asked. He and Aggar made themselves comfortable for her tale. " Was he replaced with a doppelganger of some kind?"
" No." She shook her head. " It was Raf in body, but not in mind. It was like something was controlling him from afar."
" Mind control?" Aggar asked. " Is that even possible?"
" Oh yes." Insa told him. " It's very possible. As a matter of fact this is something Tayor Larin has been working on for many years."
" But how?" Aggar asked them. " And why?"
" How you ask." All attention was turned to Insa. He would be the expert on magic in the room. " There are certain forms of magic that is directly aimed at the mind. But it would take someone very strong to do it. Certain objects are said to give one that ability and the strongest of these objects is rumored to have surfaced lately."
" Could that be whats controlling Raf?" Keya asked tearfully.
" Could be." Insa nodded to Keya. " But please finished your story."
" Well to wasn't long before Raf was was home again with us." She continued calmly. " Father and I were pleased he was safe. But I knew the minute I saw him something was not right."
" How so?" Tof asked."
" Our eyes glow in certain light." She said. " Like moonlight. And sometimes they do look red. But Raf's eyes scared me they were so red. He said it was from being held underground in some strange cavern. But we've both been underground before and our night vision is excellent. So that wasn't it. Besides, my brother and I are very close, and to me, he just didn't smell right. Like Raf, but there was something foul there to. Father didn't feel or smell it. No one else did. They were all just grateful he was home safe. But was he? Home or safe?"
She stopped for a minute as Sharone came in and served them tea. Afterwards she sat with Aggar and listened.
" Please go on." Tof urged her.
" As I was saying I tried to warn father that something was wrong." Keya went on. " But his prodigal son was here, that's all he could see. Raf had been talking about the people that saved him. He said they wanted our help in someway and had sent some kind of gift that would explain it all. I objected strongly. This was Winterhaven's affair and they should be left to solve their own inner conflict. For the first time in my life, I didn't trust Raf and I told Father this. Father was furious. In his anger, he sent me away. Me, one of his most trusted advisors. So I left the chambers. I thought I would talk to father later and try to make him understand. But I never got the chance."
" Exactly what happened?" Tof asked her. Sharone saw that Keya was close to tears. She walked over and sat with her and took her hand to give her more confidence. Sharone smiled at her patting her hand.
" We're here to help." Sharone told her. " Your safe and we'll do all we can to help. Tell us what happened"
" Father was very angry with me for speaking against Raf." She explained. " It was like nothing I said mattered to him anymore and I was one of my fathers most trusted advisors. I didn't understand what was happening. This was my brother Raf. He was next in line for our Barony by law. But at this moment, somehow I knew this wasn't Raf. The worst part was that Raf stood up for me. He told father to send me here with a request for help for the people of Winterhaven. He looked right in my eyes and smiled at me. That's when I really got scared. His eyes flashed red. I started to tell father when he shushed me. He told me I should thank the gods Raf was safe and that if I couldn't show him the respect he had earned that I should go and try and convince King Drakes regent to send help. I tried to protest and father ordered the guards to take me out until I could be more respectful. I was very upset. I couldn't believe father wouldn't hear a word I said. The guard escorted me quietly out of the hall and to my room. There I packed for my trip here. I was hoping if father wouldn't hear me, King Drake would. But before I left, I wanted to try once more with father. I hoped Raf had gone to rest in his room, but I was wrong. He hadn't. As I neared my fathers study I heard voices. It was Raf and my father. I stopped to listen. Raf was trying to explain why we should help the rebels in Winterhaven and I couldn't believe it, but my father disagreed. He said this wasn't our fight and he couldn't offer any help without King Drakes approval. Raf raged at father. I have never seen him so mad. I could smell his anger from where I was. For a minute, I thought he just might attack. Then he settled down and said he had a gift from the rebels, something that would explain everything to him. Raf reached in his pocket and took out a small velvet bag. He opened the bag and spilled out a small ring and gave it to father. He took it asking what it was. Raf told him to put it on. Father looked at him strangely then put the ring on."
Keya stopped and looked about the room at the four people listening to her tale. All eyes were on her eager to her her next word. She gathered her thoughts and calmed herself to finish what she had started.
" Tof." She said. " You know my family history. You know that Raf and I are step brother and sister. That his mother died in childbirth and mine married father five years later. What you may not know is that my mother had a touch of magic in her. She could always sense danger and magic almost like we take in the scent of our prey or weather or anything else around us. My mother passed this ability on to me when I was born. She taught be as a cub to sense magic and to listen to my senses. She said believe in them and, they would never fail me. Well this is what I was getting from Raf the minute he returned home. That sense of danger. but I couldn't pinpoint what it was. The second father put that ring on, my head almost exploded with fear. I couldn't go near them the fear was so intense. It drove me out of the house where I shifted and ran into the forest. I ran for hours blindly not thinking about where I was going or anything before stopping to collect myself. I found this stream where I stopped to get a drink exhausted. What next I asked myself. What do I do?. Where do I go? Should I go back and try and help? See what I can do? I knew I had to. I couldn't just leave father and everyone else to whatever was going on there. At least I had to see so I could tell you here what happened. So I headed back to Remus. It took me a few hours until I found my way back and it was dark, but darkness is nothing to our kind. I made my way quietly back into Remus. There were a lot of strange men here now. I could tell by their scent they were not of the were kind. These must be the men from Winterhaven that Raf was talking about. But what were they doing here? They were not looking for help. I watched as people were carried from there homes and placed in our dungeons. I saw Raf just standing there red eyed watching. Then I saw them carry father asleep like the rest past where I hid and into the dungeon. These were not rebels looking for aid. I knew that now. They were invaders here to take our city, And Raf was helping them. Helping our enemy to capture us."
" I looked around for help and saw a few of our warriors helping them. They were actually helping carry our people to their prisons. They would be no help. I had to get away and to the Lair so I could warn King Drake. Slowly I crept out of my hiding place and made my way to the city gates. I almost made it when I heard someone call my name. It was Raf. He had spotted me. I looked back at him."
[ Going somewhere sister?] He smiled at me the red in his eyed glowing.
[ Betrayer!] I sent growling. [ How could you do this to us?]
[ For power.] He answered. [ Father's day is done. We will rule all the kingdoms and there's nothing you can do to stop us. Grab her! Don't let her get away!!]
" So I ran. I ran until you found me with my own people right on my heels trying to stop me. Now you know. We have to save Remus and my father."
" As you may know by now." Tof said walking out and taking Keya's hand. " My father is feeling a bit under the weather and I am in control of our lands. We've been hearing a lot of what's been going on in Winterhaven and I'm very concerned. I promise we'll free Remus and all our people."
Tof looked over at Insa on the couch listening intently for anything that might be of any help to them. So far Insa had no doubt Tayor Larin was behind all the madness and he was anxious to get back into Winterhaven to fight him. He was worried about the academy and what had happened to it. In his sleep he had heard most of what had gone on. How Zarin had taken Eheren and the rest of his friends out to find the academy. If anyone could find out what had happened, he knew Zarin would be the one. Now all he could do was trust him and be waiting in case he needed help. His job would be to find a way to right the wrongs in Winterhaven and New Keanna and bring down it's new king.
" What will we do?" Sharone asked " Jandar and Rage won't be of any help to us. How will we fight them?"
" We have other allies to help us." Tof said. " First I think we should see how far this Lord Larins reach extends. What lands does he control."
" Agreed." Insa nodded his head. " Check the Elves, Fairy, and Dwarves. Send someone to Valkar and see if he has had any problems. I'll call out to all of my clan that wasn't in New Keanna to see what news they have. I know the Shadows are out there somewhere investigating Winterhaven. Ariel and Toric were not in there apartments.."
" I know people in the fairy kingdom and the dwarven lands." Aggar said. " I can contact them."
" Fine." Tof said. " I will send to Valkar. If they've invaded our lands, the vampires will be invaded too. What of Aramis and Jax? Can they help?"
" Jax is protecting New Keanna." Insa explained. " Aramis and the rest will only interfear if it becomes dire. But I'm sure he's watching and ready to advise us if necessary."
" And Ono?" Sharone asked a tear in her eye. The whole family missed him so much. " Any word on them?"
" I'm sorry, no." Insa said. " But don't give up. I've been told their destiny awaits them. A great destiny that could determine the fates of many is in their hands."
Sharone had a stricken look on her face. Aggar took her hands to comfort his future wife. They could tell Insa's words scared her.
" Sharone, Tof." Insa stood before them. " I have faith in both Ono and Shayn. I know we have taught them well and whatever fate is in front of them, they can handle it. Let's just put our minds on what we have to do. People depend on us. Agreed?"
" Yea." Tof said. " I agree. Aggar, We'll leave the dwarves and fairy's to the two of you. See what you can find out. Insa, find whoever s missing from New Keanna. I'll talk to Valkar and see what he knows. We'll meet in an hour. Lets get to work."

The crack and popping of the fire woke Aron from a sound sleep. He sat up and looked around the hill they camped on. He could see Adanar and Emrel's camp in the valley below. He had set magical barriers around their camp to keep the two from seeing them until they were ready to show themselves in the morning. Elan was sleeping quietly beside him. Aron smiled at him then kissed his love wondering what he would do if anything ever happened to him. He knew he would be lost and his life would be over. The snapping of a twig caught his attention and Aron quickly turned to see what it was. He listened carefully for any other new sounds then pulled the sleeping blankets up on Elan and stood up for a look around. They were in an unknown forest and he had no idea what could be out there watching them right now. Aron reached into his pack and pulled out his sword. A weapon he seemed to have some proficiency with from his dueling classes at the academy. He buckled the belt to his side and conjured a orb to light his way and moved off for a quick look around. The forest was dark and his eyes weren't use to the darkness. He sent his orb higher to cast more light on the surrounding area. The forest seemed quiet. He didn't see any thing that could threaten them. Aron moved further into the trees when suddenly he heard it again. A snapping of some kind. Aron's eyesight was usually very good, but not in the dark, though his hearing was much better. He could hear shuffling in the bush. There was something or someone out there. Could it be Adanar or Emrel? No he thought. They would be at there own camp, watching the forest just like he was.
" Elan!" He said out loud. " I have to get back!"
Aron turned to run and out of the dark something hit him in the back of his head. He saw stars as he fell to the ground. Then he saw nothing. From behind a tree a goblin dressed in blood red armor had stepped out and clubbed him. This was Garuk Foulclub, leader of this small group. Out of the shadows, five more goblins came out and stood around Aron staring down at him. One bent down and began going through his clothes.
" I caught him." Garuk growled. " Anything you find is mine!"
Another dressed in dirty pants and old pieced together armor pushed to the front of the group. He sent a kick into Aron side and spat at him. He raised his sword intent on decapitated the elf when the clubbed one pushed him to the ground.
" No killing!" He shouted staring down at the fallen goblin staring up at him.
" This one is an intruder in our forest!" Screamed the goblin getting to his feet. " He must die! They all must die!"
" Bog has plans for them." Garuk placed his club on his back and turned to walk back in the night. " We follow his orders."
" Coward." Zod Damndrool mumbled as he brushed the dirt off himself. Garuk stopped and turned back snarling. He pulled his knife from his hip scabbard.
" You have something to say Zod ?" Garuk stormed back getting ready to fight.
" I say Bog has gone to far this time." Zod pulled his sword for the confrontation. The time had come for him to make his bid for leadership of the Bloodfang clan. Starting with Garuk, Bogs lackey here. " He has disrespected our laws and customs. We will have no more of him.
" We?" Garuk laughed. " Who is we? All I see is one pitiful goblin seeking to see his ancestors at an early age. Who stands with Zod here?"
Zod looked to his side expecting to see some of his companions step out to favor him. But they all turned there heads and stepped away from him in true goblin fashion. He spit angrily at them and turned back to Garuk.
" I don't need anyone at my side." He called waving his blades in the air. " I can take care of you. Then that prick Bog all by myself."
" It's your death." Garuk pulled his club from his back smiling. " Come, take my place if you can. Death waits for you Zod Damndrool."
Zod advanced on Garuk holding his swords ready for the attack. He gripped his swords with determination as he stepped forward to do battle. Garuk smiled his brown jagged teeth showing and waited for Zod to attack.
With a quick flash of steel Zod swung high at Garuk's head. Spinning quickly he stabbed at Garuk's chest hoping to make a fast end here. Garuk stepped to the side avoiding Zod's swing and held out his club in Zod's path knowing his momentum would carry him in. Thrusting quickly he jabbed at Zod's chest knocking him flat on his back. Huffing with frustrating Zod climbed to his feet and charged at Garuk. Garuk swung his club like a bat, connecting with Zod's sword hand and arm breaking every bone from his shoulder down. Zod screamed in pain and dropped the sword. Garuk walked over and picked up the sword and handed at back to his uninjured hand.
" I won't kill an unarmed man." Garuk said, his club over his shoulder. " You will die today Zod. Neither Bog or I can let anyone challenge us and live. Any last words?
" Piss on you and Bog!" Zod spit at him. He held the sword up with his uninjured hand while the broken one dangled. " Your day will come."
" Maybe." Garuk smiled raising his club. " But yours is here."
With a mighty swing, Garuk brought down the club crushing Zods skull killing him.
" Take his weapons and his head as a trophy." Garuk wiped his club off on Zod's pants then hung it over his shoulder. " Bring the elf. There's one more to collect tonight. A very special prize."
" What about his sleeping partner?" A goblin asked. " Can we kill him?"
" No." Garuk said. He pulled a tube from his pack. A spy glasses. He stretched it long and looked down into the valley at the other sleeping camp. " We leave him. Now hurry. We have work to do."

After leaving Elan asleep in his camp, the goblins moved down the hill to Adanar and Emrel's camp. This time there was more of them. Aesis had warned them that their query this time would be students from the Winterhaven Academy. So this time they prepared for their use of magic. Before entering Garuk had a goblin mage cast a null magic spell on the camp. He had no idea if it would work, but it's better to try and be prepared then to trust in blind luck which when magic was concerned, rarely worked.
From all around the camp the goblins moved in to get closer. Garuk held up his hand to stop their advance. He wanted a look around first before anyone else entered so he could plan this out as best he could. He moved silently closer to hide behind a tree and watch until he was ready to move.
There Adanar sat quietly watching his sister sleep. He had tried all night to convince her that they were safe here in Fay Shrea even though trust between there to people wasn't very good. He knew his father had had dealings with them and he always said the fairy Queen was very wise and could be trusted. But it was different to be lost in Fay Shrea. Faere weren't the only ones there and the queens power wasn't always respected by the rouge elements that roamed the lands. Goblins, hobgoblin, troll, and other dark races of faere respected her power but were always challenging their queen. If not for her army and allies, Fay Shrea would have been conquered years ago.
But none of this mattered, the young elven prince thought to himself. They would be in and out of Fay Shrea before anyone here knew they were even there he hoped. Adanar looked over and watched his sister wrapped in her blanket sleep. He could still feel her fear in her mind as she slept. Both of them had tried again and again to reach Eventide with no success. Emrel had told Adanar that her magic wasn't feeling right. She was even getting a different feeling from him when she touched his mind. He didn't want to worry her, but he knew what she meant. He had felt it too. He couldn't sense any of there family and Ryel should shine in his mind like a beacon. He always had all their lives. Adanar told her not to worry. It was probably just nerves. But they both knew better. Someone was stalking them, blocking their magic. But once out of Fay Shrea they would be closer to Eventide in Elven lands. There they should feel the power of the Eventide glade. It's magic should heighten their power and then they should be able to reach home.
Settling at the fire, Adanar reached out with his mind to check the wards they had set up earlier. He felt nothing at the first two, but at the second he could tell someone had disturbed them. Quietly Adanar stood and walked out to check on them. It might have just been some animal since no warning had sounded. But this was Fay Shrea, with faere magic to tend with, anything could have happened.
As he walked he notices how quiet it was. There were no crickets or insect sounds. He didn't hear any kind of animal noises from the forest and earlier the forest was alive with sound. On his side Adanar wore the sword he had taken with him. He pulled it just incase to be ready for any attacks that might come. As he looked around he saw out of the corner of his eye, movement. Adanar jumped to his left but there was nothing there. He scanned all around still finding nothing and moved further into the trees looking deeper. He didn't want to get to far away from Emrel sleeping so he stopped. Suddenly he heard a voice scream in his head.
[ Adanar, get back to your sister. There's danger here!!]
Just then the forest erupted with danger. Goblins armed with swords and clubs came running from behind the trees. There were many of them rushing at him. He couldn't possibly fight them all. He needed help. Adanar through up his hands and called out a force spell and sent it at them. It sparked into existence weakly and he pushed it at his attackers. In a wave of yellow energy the force wave rushed at the Goblins bowling them over. Adanar turned an ran back to where he had left Emrel. From the side Goblins tried attacking him. He sent blast after blast at them picking them off as he ran. If he could only make it to Emrel, he knew their power together could defeat the Goblins attacking.
Adanar made it out of the trees and into the clearing where he had left his sister. The horses still waited nervously, fidgeting at all the commotion going on around them, But something horrible had happened. Emrel was gone. She was no longer where Adanar had left her sleeping. Her bed roll was empty.
" EMREL!!"
As he called out to his sister Goblins rushed out to attack. Adanar pulled his sword and swung for the nearest one. Their swords clanged and he sent out another blast sending the Goblin flying. One by one they came at him and he fought them off with sword and magic. Suddenly from behind him, Adanar heard the sound of hooves racing toward him. He turned parring the swing of a blade and saw a dark elf came riding out of the forest. He jumped off his horse brandishing his blade and waded into the battle. Adanar looked closer and recognized Prince Elan Darkshade, one of the last people in the world he expected to come riding in to his rescue. Back to back the two elves stood fighting against their foes.
" STOP AT ONCE!!"
Adanar turned to find a Goblin dressed in red armor standing in front of his men. Elan moved to his side holding his sword ready.
" Where is my sister?" Adanar called. His anger rising as his magic began to collect around him.
" And Aron." Elan asked. " Bring them out or we will show you how powerful two royal elven houses combined can be."
Adanar looked at Elan and nodded. He had no idea what had happened and why Elan or Aron were here, but he was glad for his help right now. Together they might be enough to take these Goblins.
" We don't fear you elf." Garuk shouted. " Neither of you. You will do as we say or you will never see either of them alive again."
Elan raised his glowing hand starting a spell to send at Garuk when Adanar stopped him.
" Wait!." Adanar said. " I don't know what you or Aron are doing here or if I can trust you. But I may need your help to get Emrel free."
" They have my Aron too." Elan looked deeply at him. Adanar could see the pain in Elan's eyes. He wondered just what was going on between the two friends. " I'll do whatever we have to to get him free."
" Then we listen for now." He said. " No attacks. Understand?"
" Yes." Elan said still ready to attack. " I'll do as you say."
Adanar slid his sword back into its scabbard and turned back to Garuk. He stood regally like the prince he was taught all his life to be.
" What is it you want?" He demanded.
" That's good." Garuk gave him an evil grin. " Your ready to cooperate."
" We are ready to listen." The Eventide prince said. " We still don't know if we can trust you."
" You have no choice." Garuk stepped out from the other Goblins smugly. " You do as my lord commands or your friends die."
" And what would that be?" Elan asked.
" He wants the Gold ring of Endrin ." Garuk said looking for there reaction.
Elan looked at the goblin in shock. Adanar was completely lost. He had no idea what they were talking about. But Elan seemed to know something about it. He wanted the same ring that Tabor and his father had been searching for. He had to think quick. The last thing he remembered was that Tabor had said it was somewhere in the Academy. He would have to go back to Winterhaven to find it if he wanted to get Aron back. Worse yet, he would have to get it before Tabor found it. That is if he hadn't found it already. Elan looked at Adanar. He would have to tell him everything. For Emrel's sake, he was in this too.
" What if we can't find the ring?" He asked Garuk,
" I think you better find it." Garuk signaled his men to start moving out. " Your friends lives depend on it."
Anger flared in Elan and he pulled his sword and started for Garuk. Adanar reached out and gripped Elan by his shoulder to pull him back and try and calm his anger. Elan throw off his hand. He'd had enough of being calm. Aron was in trouble and he'd kill every goblin to free his mate if he had to.
[ Adon Elan!] Adanar sent. [ Your anger won't help us here. Remember, Emrel and Aron are not powerless. We'll find a way to free them. But we have to keep control of ourselves. Keep your promise to me.]
Elan backed off after hearing Adanar's word. He knew he was right. Only if they were calm would they have any chance to free the captives.
" Calm yourself elf!" Spat Garuk. " All you need do is get us the ring. You have magic and should be perfectly capable of finding it."
" We will do as you ask." Adanar warned Garuk. " But be warned all of you. If you hurt either of them in any way. We swear to you on our oaths as elven princes, We will hunt down every member of your clan and kill them. Not one member will survive. This I swear to you."
" So to swears the prince of the Darkshades." Elan nodded. He walked out and took the reins of his horse and climbed on then waited for Adanar to gather his things and mount up. With an angry look Adanar walked around gathering his and Emrel's things as the Goblins all moved back out of his way. Once mounted on his horse he nodded to Elan that he was ready to move out. Before leaving he turned back to Garuk.
" Have a care goblin." He said. " Take good care of your captives. My word is my bond. If anything happens to them, your deaths won't be pleasant. Or quick!"
With a quick wave of his hand he sent a bolt of lightning into a tree and blasted it to splinters showering the goblins and they were off to find the ring.

Dark Faere Rising. 24

The day was drawing to a close as Adanar and Emrel rode into Fay Shrea, the land of the faerie. From leprechaun to pixies, dark and light, every type of faerie could be found here in Fay Shrea. This Adanar thought would be the easy leg of their journey. Sure, there were dark types of faerie, but most of faerie kind kept to themselves and elusive. They tried to stay away from people because of the old fable that if you caught a faerie, the faerie had to grant you three wishes. That was so untrue. Faeries are not as defenseless as they look. They are some of the most magical people on all of Keanna with very powerful defenses and offenses. And if by some chance one did catch one, that faerie could fight just as savagely as any werewolf or vampire to be free. One would be lucky to escape with their life.
Today the forest seemed quiet Adanar thought. There was a heaviness in the air. Adanar wasn't sure if it was real or just his imagination. His plan was to rest for a few hours then push on. These lands were not usually dangerous to elves, but these were dark times and strange things had been happening lately. He remembered the dream he and Emrel had shared the other night. He could still feel that somehow danger surrounded Dasyra and Evindal. He didn't know what, but they both felt there was trouble at home.
Adanar looked to his side and saw Emrel staring at him. He knew that look in her eyes like she knew what he was thinking.
"That's because your mind is so transparent when your upset." Emrel called to him. "It always has been brother."
"But only to you I hope." He smiled at her.
"Me and Ryel." She said. "He's always worried about you."
"Oh?" Adanar slowed his horse to a trot and she draw hers closer to his. "What could possibly worry little Ry? He has such freedom to play with his animals all day."
"Haven't you noticed the change in him?" Emrel looked at him surprised. "He hasn't been the same since father died. Haven't you been watching him?"
"Yes I have." Adanar nodded his head. "He wakes me with his dreams sometimes at night. Even in school I feel him calling me and I sing to him."
"I didn't know he could reach so far."
"He can if he really wants to." He told her. "That's what worry's me. If there's trouble at home he should have called me. But I can't feel him at all. It's like a dark wall surrounds Eventide and I can't get through it."
"I know." She said. "I feel it too. But we'll get there. I know we will."
From there they rode on in silence. Adanar didn't want to tell her anymore of what he had been feeling and dreaming. He hoped she hadn't found it in his mind while it had been so open to her. He had made contact with Ryel. It was last night in his dreams. He had seen mother laying in Ryel's arms and him crying. And that wasn't all. Somehow he knew Ryel wasn't at home anymore. He was out here somewhere looking for them. Adanar knew now he had another problem. He had to find him. If only Jake or Seven were there. He needed their help so much right now, but he couldn't reach them either. Adanar sighed as he rode. These's were dark days for the Eventide and he had the feeling they would only get worst.

For a certain Leprechaun this just wasn't turning out to be a lucky day. Finn had made it out of Aspara Bough barely and through the woods when he realized he was being followed. From the smell of it, they were goblins and he'd bet all of his hidden gold it was that damned Banshee that had sent them after him. Finn used every trick he could think of to shake them from his trail but nothing seemed to work. If it had still been day he would have summoned a rainbow and tried getting away on it, but that wasn't possible at night so he ran as fast as he could. Still Finn trusted in his luck and knew somewhere up ahead there would be help waiting to find him.
As he ran he heard the the sounds of arrows from goblin bows zipping past him. Finn reached in his pocket and pulled out a coin. It wasn't gold but it was enchanted and might be his only chance. He flipped it into the air and let it fall. As it hit the ground a magic replica of himself appeared. He nodded to it as it tipped its hat at him.
"Ya go that way." Finn pointed east. "Keep em off me arse so I kin get away."
With the speed of a leprechaun it took off to the east making all kinds of noise crashing through the forest. Finn waited for a few minute to see if the goblins would fall for it. He listened closely and heard his pursuers heading after his doppelganger. He sighed his relief and quietly made his way in a northern direction. It didn't take long before Finn realized that his follows were still behind him. There was one good thing about goblins, leprechauns could always smell when there was one hear them. That was probably what had stopped them from following the doppelganger for to long. He didn't have the scent of the leprechaun or of gold. Finn quicken his pace to a run trying to make it to a small town north of him where there was an inn run by a group of Shefro he knew would help him. He saw a clearing ahead of him and ran faster hoping to out distance them. Suddenly Finn ran head first into a net spread in the trail in front of him. He struggled to free himself but it was no use. This was a goblin net made to catch leprechauns and he was stuck fast. Finn relaxed and stopped struggling. This wasn't going to get him out of the net. He heard and smelled the goblins coming closer. It was like a strong fishy smell. He was going to have to count on his charm and luck to free him. So he knew he had better get charming real quick.

Elan and Aron slipped quietly into Fay Shrea close behind Adanar and Emrel keeping their eye on them as best they could. The two elves hadn't talked very much in the last day. Aron still didn't see how he would be able to be a apart of Elan's life. He knew Elan's mother would never allow them to be together no matter what he said. She would have him killed if that was what it took to separate them. To Aron the question was, did he love Elan enough to fight her? And could he win? Talsara was a very powerful woman and many in the elven kingdoms feared her power. As queen of the Darkshade domain, she had absolute rule over all including her mate the king. Having Aron or even Elan eliminated would be an easy task for her and no one would question her. So was their love worth it? Aron looked at Elan riding beside him. Elan smiling and his heart jumped. Yes, he was worth it. Aron knew he would die for him or face horrible torture for Elan. He would never leave his side no matter what his evil mother did.
"They've stopped." Elan said raising his hand. "We stop here."
Elan climbed down off his horse then took his saddlebag and supplies and placed them to the side. He reached out to Aron to help him from his horse. He could see that something still bothered his love. He could see the fear in his eyes.
"What is it Aron?" He asked "What bothers you."
"All of this." He said climbing down."All of it bothers me. You mother scares me to no end."
"I can handle my mother." Elan said in a non-convincing voice. He turned from Aron and grabbed his bag.
"Can you?" Aron asked. "Can you really? Have you any idea what she plans?"
"Yes I know what her plans are." This wasn't really a talk Elan wanted to have again. But it seemed Aron did. "She plans to take Eventide and make it apart of the Darkshade domain. She wants me to rule there with Emrel as my Queen."
"And what do you want?" Aron was becoming upset. "Me or her? You can't have both."
"Why not?" Elan turned shouting at Aron. "I'm the crown prince of the Darkshade nation. I can have what I want!"
"What about love?" Aron asked. "Will she give you that? Can your mother?"
"That's why I have you Aron." He stepped closer trying to take Aron's hand. Aron pushed him away.
"I love you more then you can imagine Elan." Aron told him. " But I told you once. I won't be some plaything you hide away from all the world. You have to make a choice."
Elan looked at him with confusion in his eyes. He was fighting inside with his loyalty to the Darkshades and to Aron.
"Listen to me." Aron pulled Elan down to sit on a log in their campsite. "Your mother is one of the most powerful monarchs in all of the elven lands. She could have us destroyed with a word. But I don't care about that. I care about us and our future together. If you go ahead with this, we won't have a future. Your mother will have taken it from us. And if she finds out the truth about us, what do we do?"
"But this is what I've been groomed for all my life." Elan said frustrated. "This is my destiny."
"No!" Aron shouted. "I'm your destiny! Me! And I'm not going to let you be a lapdog for you mothers evil plans. I won't let that happen ever."
"What are you saying?" Elan asked.
"I'm saying all your life your mother has been trying to make you a monster, just like her. She's taught you that you're the privileged one and that you're more important then anyone else in the world." Aron was very upset. "But I know better then to think you believe that. Do you know why she sent you to Winterhaven?"
"To learn at the academy." Elan said.
"No." Aron argued. "She sent you there because she knew her teachings were not working on you. She could see the compassion in your eyes like I do. She sent you to Tayor and Tabor to learn cruelty from them. But Elan, that's not you. Instead you learned love from me and no matter what Tabor tried to make you do, you're not a cruel man and you never will be!"
Elan looked deep into Aron's eyes and knew all he said was true. He could never be like Tabor. Torture, bullying, selfishness just wasn't in him. But what was?
"I don't know what to do." Elan jumped up and paced frantically. "I'm confused right now. I'm torn between loyalty and love. What should I do?"
"Amin mela lle." Aron said. " All I can do is tell you what I think. I think we should go down and tell Adanar and Emrel everything. Tell them all about Eventide and your mothers plans. It's time we live for ourselves and not for what is expected of us. It's time to do what is right not what someone else wants."
Elan looked at Aron with a tear in his eye. If he followed Aron he would be signing their death sentences. His mother would never allow him to go against her wishes. But Aron had to know that. Then Elan thought about what life would be like without him. Completely unbearable. There would be no life. He would just exist from day to day doing as he was told. He cringed at the thought. That left Elan with only one choice.
"You promise you will always be here with me?"
"I do." Aron swore.
"No matter what happens?"
"No matter what happens." Aron answered smiling. "I will never leave you. You are a part of my soul."
"Then let's get something to eat and some rest." Elan pulled Aron into a deep embrace. "I think we have a lot of explaining to do to our friends down there."

In the trees over their heads sat a small imp dressed in the dark blue and black of the house of Darkshade holding a message stone in his hand. He was listening to every word they said, spying on them and sending everything back to his master. He knew this new information would infuriate her but what happened to the crown prince was of no matter to him. Only pleasing his queen made him happy.
"My Queen. You heard what was said?"
[Yes, I heard them and I have something I want you to do. Call on the goblins.] The queen told Aesis. [Have them take care of this. I want the damned freak that corrupted my son dead and Elan back in Eventide with Emrel.]
"Yes my queen." Aesis whispered. "What of the boy with her?"
[Kill him.] She answered. [He's a Eventide and in the way. There's one more Eventide I want you to find. The youngest one Ryel. He escaped here before the spell could take him. Find him.]
"Shall I kill him too?" Aesis asked.
Talsara thought about that for a minute before answering. [Just get him back here. I'll take care of him.]

Deep in the hills of the dark moors of Gaymere lived the Bloodfang clan. Just one of many goblin clans spread across all of Keanna. The Bloodfang's were one of the most fierce and bloodthirsty of all the goblin clans and the worst of all in Gaymere. On his high chair as lord of the Bloodfang's, Bog Fanggore sat and watched as two goblins fought for the right to be his second in command. His last second thought he was strong enough to challenge him for leadership of the clan. Alas he was wrong and now Bog wore his eyes on a chain around his neck. The goblins head sat behind him on the post on the back of Bogs chair to remind others of what happens to those that challenge his rule.
With sword in hand the two goblins battled while Bog and the others laughed and bet on who would win. Suddenly a loud pop sounded beside his chair. Bog turned to find Aesis, Queen Talsara's imp staring at him.
"You want something?" He asked as the fight continued. The two goblins slashing at each other trying to win his favor.
"I have orders from my Queen." Aesis hissed at him.
"Orders?" Bog said spitting. "I take no orders from an Elf!"
"Then you and all your clan will die when she and her army cleanse Gaymere." Aesis walked out and stood in front of Bog blocking his view of the fight. "She gives you this choice, serve her and rule Gaymere in her name or die. We have already taken Queen Nuala and her lands. We will take all of Gaymere. The choice is yours."
News had already come to Bog of what had happened in Aspara Bough. He was in preparations to get his men ready when he was challenged. His forges were blazing getting weapons and armor ready to make his bid for all of Fay Shrea. Perhaps this might be an easier way. Do as she says now then when he is ready, kill her and take Gaymere. He could wait a little longer to make his move.
"Tell your Queen I won't serve her. But we will be her ally" Bog smiled his crooked smile. " As long as once she is done in her conquest, Gaymere and a small part of Fay Shrea is mine. What is it she wants?"
"There are intruders in Fay Shrea." Aesis reached out and grabbed Bogs arm to get his attention. Bog snatched it from him grip.
"Touch me again and your queen will need a new messenger." Bog glared at the imp. "I know of the elves. We're watching them. Does she want us to kill them?"
Aesis stepped to the side just in time for Bog to see Garuk his cousin rammed his sword into the back of his opponents head killing him. The goblin crowd roared its blood lust.
"Here's what she wants."

Evening had fallen as Ariel, Toric and Denner found themselves winging their way south of Relos. They were to meet Morganz and Braddoc in a glade just outside of Fay Shrea. Braddoc had let Ariel know that Adanar and Emrel's trail led into the land of the faerie. Ariel had asked them not to enter until they could join them. She knew well the dangers there. Eventide had been invaded many times by goblins and trolls and a few others from Fay Shrea. Her father years ago had made a treaty with Queen Nuala to make peace and got promises that their invasions would end. He had promised no Eventide elf would ever enter Fay Shrea if the invasions would stop, and until today, none had. Ariel worried what Adanar and Emrel's presence in Fay Shrea would cause. Would this break the treaty? Would Queen Nuala now have a reason to send the goblins back into Eventide? This was not something that Eventide needed right now. Ariel still couldn't reach Mother or Evindal, even Ryel wasn't answering. They had to hurry. They could be in real trouble.
"Anything?" Toric asked.
[Nothing.] She sent to him. [It's like they're all mind blind suddenly.]
[What could cause that?] Denner flew hearer to her, his white wings beating as he galloped through the air.
[I don't know.] She answered. [It's never happened before. Even if I can't reach mother, I should be able to reach someone in Eventide. But there's nothing.]
"Well we're almost to Morganz." Toric called to them. "Then we can go after the two young ones."
[There they are!]
Far bellow them on a hill they saw a tall man waving. Ariel could see it was her cousin Morganz standing next to Braddoc the centaur. Dipping their wings they came down to circle before landing. They could see they where just outside of Fay Shrea's forest and it seemed no faeries were around. Ariel folded her wings and dropped to the ground with Denner right behind her. There they made the shift back to their normal forms.
"Thil Tyss!" Morganz called as he and Braddoc came to meet them. He bowed to Seven and held out his hand for Toric and Denner to grasp.
"Have you found them?" She asked anxiously.
"They're in Fay Shrea I'm afraid." Braddoc said. "We're going to have to go in after them. I've scouted in a little way. I have a bit of news."
"What is it?" Toric asked.
"Two horses followed them in." He said. "I think they're elven too."
"What makes you think that?" Denner asked.
"I know hooves, I'm a centaur hunter." Braddoc said stomping. "Those were horses ridden only by elves. Believe me. I can tell."
"We should get after them then." Seven looked worried for her brother and sister. "Fay Shrea isn't safe for the Elven. It never has been."
"So do we go in?" Denner asked looking at all of them.
"We follow the hunter. " Toric said. "Braddoc is our best tracker. He's our best hope to find them."
"Then you'll both need a horse." Braddoc said. "You won't be able to keep up with Morganz and I on foot."
"I can carry one of you." Denner shifted his form to a unicorn and neighed as he kicked the ground.
"Take Seven." Toric turned to her and put his hands on her waist and lifted her on to his back.
"I can follow you as Ariel."
"Ariel's to big." Toric told her. "You'll make far to much noise crashing through the forest. Everyone will hear us coming. We need to be quiet. Am I right Braddoc?"
"Yes you are." He said. "What will you do? We're not leaving you here"
"I'm a Collector." Toric smiled. "As we flew over I sensed something I haven't seen in these parts in many years. Airion's."
"Airion's?" Braddoc look at him in amazement. "It haven't seen any of the air steeds in a long time. I thought they had all been hunted down and killed."
"There aren't many left." Toric told them. "But they still exist. Maybe I can call one here."
[Excuse me.] Denner sent. [Airion's? What is that?]
"Its a old breed of horse like the Pegasus that can run on the wind." Braddocc explained. "They're very intelligent and rare, almost extinct. If he can get one here, he'll have to ask it to help us. It would rather die then be captured."
[This I'll have to see.] Denner sent. [It's form my be useful to be.]
"Beware trying to copy this one Denner." Seven patted his neck. "Airion's are very magical. You could get stuck in that from if you achieve it."
Toric walked out into the grasses field and sat down and made himself comfortable. He was a Collector, but he was nothing like his father and uncle who trapped animals. Toric could call animals like Ryel could, and talk to them. Perhaps that was what Ryel's magic was. True Collectors magic was a very rare thing. Quietly he sat there. It didn't seem to any of them like anything was really happening. Then suddenly on the winds they heard the soft sounds of hooves coming closer. A soft glow appeared over the trees and quickly moved towards them. They all stared with fascination as it grew closer and litely touched down on the ground and moved towards Toric. The Airion was a beautiful horse with a silver mane and tail and pure white coat. It watched them carefully as Toric stood and faced it. The Airion's voice rang out like bells in their minds.
[Who calls me?]
"I did. I am Toric Norstin." Toric bowed to the Airion. "We have need of your assistance."
[A Collector?] The Airon stepped closer to Toric curious as to who this mage that could call one of his kind to him. [Why should I help you? Men have hunted us until my kind are almost gone. We have no love for men.]
"We understand your hate of men." Toric said. "But like you, we are here trying to save lives. That's our mission in life. We are protectors."
[No one protects my herd.] It said. [I have no reason to help. I should be with my herd protecting them.]
Ariel climbed down from Denners back and walked out to where Toric talked with the Airon.
"I am Seven Arlayna Talila Eventide." She bowed. "I am princess of the house of Eventide."
[And elf?]
"And Ariel of the New Keanna dragon clan." Seven held out her hand for the Airion to get a scent of.
[You are arrn'ess.] He said. [Of our element. Greeting Ariel, I am Starglow.]
"Adon Starglow." She smiled at him. "You understand Elven."
[We have had dealings with the elven kind.] He told her. [We have found we can trust the elves of light.]
"And dragons?" She asked running her hand along his mane admiring his beauty.
[Yes.] He sent. [My people know of the first clan and one named Arik. He was our protector once.]
"Then let us be you protector again." She said. "I will pledge you the protection of our clan from now on. I know Rage my king will honor any promises I make, and so will all the others."
[If we help you?] He asked.
"No." Seven shook her head smiling. "You will have our protection no matter what happens here. We will be friends to your herd."
"Starglow, there is a place that is protected my my magic and my friends. My estate." Toric explained. "Your herd is welcome there."
"Or you can take your people to our home." Braddoc stepped up. "My people will watch over your herd."
 [I thank you friends.] Starglow shook his head pleased. [I will aid you. How can I help?]
"Will you allow me to ride you?" Toric asked him.
[It will be my honor to carry you.]
Together they explained what was going on to Starglow. He listened carefully and waited until they were done before asking any questions or making any comments.
[Strange things have been going on lately.] He told them. [ We have seen strange men in the forest and on the plains. They were all heading towards the Winterhaven area. I have kept my herd away from them in hiding.]
"We know." Seven said. "Winterhaven seems to be in bad trouble these days. We should get moving into Fay Shrea."
Braddoc and Morganz took the lead with Seven on Denners back behind them and Toric and Starglow in the rear. Starglow had dimmed the glow on himself until he was a deep gray instead of white to keep them from being so noticeable. Slowly and without any sound they made their way into Fay Shrea to search for the two missing young elves.

Night fell as Ryel made his way from Eventide into the dwarven lands. He had been keeping a very careful watch behind him for anyone following him. So far he hadn't seen anyone on his trail, but he knew Talsara would send people after him. He was the only one that had witnessed what had happened in Eventide, and if she didn't stop him, he would be back to thwart her plans.
As he sat at his fire he thought about what he had to do. His mother had said to find Adanar and Emrel. They were in Winterhaven, and Jake and Seven were in New Keanna. That meant he had to hurry north. But what did she mean when she said find the seventh? Emrel is the seventh of her children. But she also said find your brother. Which brother? Jake, Adanar? He had a feeling she didn't mean either of them. And he had seen Adanar's back. He didn't have a star on his back. Then who was she talking about? Could there be another that he didn't know about? Could there be another brother? If there was, he would have to be older then him. This was all confusing to Ryel. His head was spinning from thinking about all this.
Dagger flew down to land on his shoulder. Ryel could tell he was worried about him.
"Don't worry Dagger." He stroked his back yawning. "We'll find help and get back home. We'll figure it out tomorrow, it's time to get some sleep."
Ryel sent Dagger up into the trees and laid down to sleep. He pulled his blanket around him and was asleep in just a few minutes.
Just beyond the trees a young dwarven boy watched him. The smell of Ryel's dinner had attracted him to the young elves campsite. It had been a day since he had last eaten and his belly rumble with hunger. He waited until Ryel had fallen asleep and crept in and found his leftover dinner and ate. The food was delicious he thought. It was just some bread and warmed dried meat Ryel had added water to and heated up. But to him right now, it was a banquet.
"Would you like something to drink with that?"
The dwarf jumped up in fright dropping the food and ran into the forest diving behind a tree to hide. Ryel stood looking into the forest. He had no idea what that was all about. Just that his camp had just been visited by what looked like a young dwarf.
"I'm sorry I scared you." He called out. "If your hungry,I can spare you a meal. Just come on down and sit and talk with me. I won't hurt you. My names Ryel."
Ryel picked up the pan and cleaned it out. He added a little dried meat and some roots and water and put it on the fire. Soon the aroma of his cooking filled the air all around him. He looked back in the forest and the dwarf was staring at him from behind a tree. Ryel waved to him to come have a seat. The dwarves must have really been hungry or the smell of the food over powered his fear, because soon he stepped out and inched his way down into Ryel's camp.
"Thirsty?" Ryel held out his water skin for his guest. He took it and drank deeply and wiped his mouth burping.
"I'm Ryel Eventide." Ryel extended his hand to the dwarf as he looked him over. He was about four feet nine inches tall with strong dwarven features and red hair. A teenager Ryel thought. He was dressed in mud covered tunic and pants. They seemed like the clothing from a well to do family. Ryel wondered what he was doing out here in the forest starving.
"I am Orek Grayfist." He gripped his forearm shaking. "My thanks for your hospitality. My hunger is strong."
"Sit." Ryel pointed to a log for him to pull over as he took his plate from his pack and filled it for him. He handed the plate to Orek and watched as he devoured its content quickly. While he ate, Ryel went and refilled his water skin so Orek could have another drink. He came back and found the dwarf rubbing his belly and burping.
"Thank you." Orek nodded to him. "I've been running so long, I haven't had time to eat or hunt. Not that I have anything to hunt with."
"What are you doing out here alone?" Ryel asked. "You said you were running? Trouble at home with your family?"
"Home." He sighed sadly. "I have no home anymore."
"What do you mean?"
"My home has been taken over by some strange mage." Orek said. "My people are all under some weird spell."
"Orek, I think you should tell me just what happened." Ryel sat down and fixed tea for the two of them. " Maybe we can help each other out in some way."
"If you think there's something we can do." He said. "I'll tell you what happened."

It was early morning and my father had told the family of what was happening up north in the Winterhaven area. Somehow the shining city of magic had been compromised and the council disbanded. He wasn't sure of all the details or if in anyway it posed any danger to us, but he did know that a few dwarves had been caught in the fighting. Luckily somehow they had managed to gain there freedom and had returned home last night. All this my father had heard from Kimar Oakbeard, council to King Dormon Steelarm. King Dormon had received word by message stone of their escape and return. They had said they would be back later that day and they would be returning with a message for the kings eyes. Kimar had said the king expected it was a request for arms and help from one side or the other, he would look into it.
"Later that day my father sent me off to Lands End to see a associate of his on a mining project they were partnering on. I finished up it Lands End and returned to Durkhold our home and as I approached its gates, I knew something was wrong. The gate was open and no one stood guard. With all the gold and precious metals in our mines, our gates are never unguarded. That would be madness to my people. On my back I carried a crossbow given to me by my father. I fitted a bolt into it and quietly made my way to the gate. At the gate I found the guards laying on the ground. I thought they were dead and the city had been invaded. I checked their pulse and found they were asleep. But I couldn't wake them. It must have been a magical sleep. I looked around and saw people laying all around as if they had just fallen where they had been walking. I ran in and hid in the doorway to the bakery when I saw two men in armor come around the corner. Who were these men in our city? Certainly not dwarves. I listened in as they stopped beyond my doorway and talked.
"I don't see why we have to watch the gate, Edis." One man said. "This whole city is sleep. We should be raiding the mines getting rich."
"Jo, they'll be plenty of time for that once the city is secured." He said to him. "Until then we keep a watch."
"For what?" Jo said frustrated. "Look around. No ones moving until Lord Larin wakes them. Then they'll all be slaves and the city will be gutted. We'll have missed out on all the good stuff."
"Still we do what we were told." Edis stood annoyed at his partner. "Unless you want to be the one that explains why we weren't at our post to Lord Larin. That's not a job I want."
"But why this city?" He asked. "What's so important in this dwarven city that he needs all of us here."
"All I know is that there's something in the archives here that someone wants." Edis told him. " Something about a magic ring Lord Larin's been searching for. He thinks it's here and he'll tear up this city and anywhere else he has to to find it."
"Well I just want my chance for plunder." Jo and Edis moved off toward the gate. Orek stood there thinking about what they had been talking about. A magic ring? Here in Durkhold? Orek didn't know anything about it and if it was here he should. His father was the keeper of the archives and it was to be Orek's job as the eldest son once his father retired. Whatever it was they were looking for he needed to know what it was and get it before they did if he wanted to save the people of Durkhold. Orek looked out to see if the two at the gate were still there. They had moved out of the gate to have a look around. Quickly Orek ran out of the doorway and made it around the corner. The archive building was close at the center of the city with Orek's school and the council buildings. He knew he would have to dodge the invaders as he made his way there. They would probably also be in the archives searching. Only they wouldn't know where to look. He would. His father had everything there organized in his own way. It might take them weeks of careful searching to figure out his system, and Orek didn't think they would take the time. They would probably just rush in like bulls destroying and pillaging as they went through everything. If Orek could get in, he could go straight to the files he needed for the information.
As he slowly made his way to the center of town he ducked every time one of the invaders crossed his path. They were everywhere. In houses and shops, he could hear things crashing as they tore the city apart. Looking around and seeing no one he ran across the lane when suddenly he heard someone shout at him.
"You there!" Orek looked to his left to see three soldiers staring at him. "Stop! Where do you think your going?"
Orek turned around and ran back the way he had come. He had been seen. The archives would have to wait. He had to get back to the gate or find another way out of Durkhold if he wanted to save anyone. With the invaders right on his trail he ducked into one of the many blacksmith shops that lined the street and watched as they ran passed where he was hiding.
For the next two days Orek ran and hid from his pursuers. At times they came close to catching him and bringing him back to join the rest of his people. But somehow he managed to avoid his hunters and make it into the forest losing them.
"So here we are." Orek said. "Now you know my tale. What do you think?"
"Do you have any idea what ring they were talking about?" Ryel asked.
"Yes." Orek said. "If it's the ring I think it is. I know it's not in Durkhold. I read something on it once in the archives. It's the Gold ring of Endrin. One of the most powerful magic artifacts ever created by dwarven magic."
"You think we can find it?"
"I'm not even sure it's real." Orek said. "But I think we better find out."
"So where to?" Ryel asked handing Orek an extra blanket he had then settling do to make himself comfortable for the night.
"Lands End." Orek yawned. "It looks like we're going mining."