The First. 58

As the lord of the land, Lesu sat and watched his slaves toils in the fields from his window. His thoughts went to his two renegade sons Mar and Xan. So far no one had sent him any word of the two since the destruction of the winged lord Magu's tower. Not even Loc the hunter had sent any news, and that was a surprise. Loc was known through out the land as one who never give up until he brought back his quarry. What could have happened he wondered. Was it possible Mar and Xan could have caught and defeated the hunter? Lesu knew from what Magu had said that his sons were not alone. They were in league with the damned humans they loved so much. Maybe Daru was right after all. Maybe the humans were as dangerous as he had said they were.

Lesu stood and paced back and forth in front of his huge viewing window. He had been hearing lately of many strange things in other lords lands. How Resu seemed to be missing and Daru was now in power in his house. The death of Seru and Redu. All close neighbors of Daru. Lesu knew the humans couldn't possibly be the cause of the demise of all these lords. It just wasn't possible. Humans had power but they were stupid animals incapable of thinking ahead or planning something as elaborate as an attack on a lord. This had to be another lord. Daru probably. Who else but Daru had the audacity to make a move like this. And what a move. All he had to do was call together all the lords in the area and warn them of a coming threat like a human rebellion. Then knowing no lord would believe him, he would attack himself and placing the blame on the fictional human enemy. A very devious move Lesu thought. But not one he would fall for.
Since he hadn't heard any news from Loc, Lesu sent out messengers to some of the lords he thought he might be able to trust. Lord Povu of of the desert lands to his south and his neighbor Lord Nebu to his east. It had taken a few turns to convince them, but they both agreed to meet with him in a area where the three lords lands bordered. Once his tracker was packed he set off with two of his warriors along for protection.
After a half turns ride through his lands, Lesu arrived at the meeting place. It was a hot arid area mostly desert with sparse growth of desert grass and tall palm trees with purple fans growing from the top. From where they sat, Lesu could see for miles all around. To the south he saw a dust cloud moving through the desert. That had to be Lord Povu coming in to meet him. He turned east and from there he saw a strange beast running towards him. Lesu had no idea what it was. It was as tall as a tracker but much broader like one of the Wahsantin beast that roamed the plains of the northern lands. It had six trunk like legs with wide feet with a long armored body. It's head was something out of nightmares with attributes of both the Tark and the Corjo. A long snout with sharp looking tusk and teeth. Lesu ordered his warriors down off the Trackers and into a fighting position. Taking his battle staff from his saddle, Lesu aimed it at the beast as it came within range.
As a deep howl erupted from the thing it stopped and reared up to its full height towering over them. Just as Lesu was about to order his warriors to fire, the beast image began to blur and change. Intrigued Lesu lowered his weapon as suddenly a tall Savonti dressed in greenish robes stood before him.
"Nazun Lord Lesu." Nebu bowed keeping his eyes on Lesu and his warriors. "I am Lord Nebu."
"You are a changeling?" Lesu orders his warriors to lower their weapons. "Interesting."
"I use that form for traveling." Nebu nodded coming closer to meet the lord of Lesul. "It serves me well. To what do I owe the pleasure of our meeting?"
"He seeks allies." Lord Povu rode in with his warriors saluting the two lords waiting. "Nazun Lesu. We have much to talk about."
"Indeed we do." Putting his staff back on his saddle he turned to his warriors. "Wait on the ridge. We would talk in private."
"Yes my lord." Lesu's warriors turned their Trackers and moved off to wait. As Lord Povu climbed down off his Tracker he waved his guards off and joined Lesu with Nebu.
"As you both may know." Lesu started. "Many strange things have been happening across Pentanthin. Lords have gone missing and word his come to me of a prophesy of a human rebellion. I'm looking for allies and any news either of you my have of some of the events that have happened."
"You talk of Daru and his warning of the White and Grey I assume?" Nebu reached up and unclasped his Tark furred cloak ad took it off. He laid it next to him and sat down in the hot sands. "I have heard whispers from my lves of his predictions. They seem to think it true."
"Bah!" Lesu waved him off dismissing the claim. "I care not what humans think. No human has power beyond a Savonti lord and none ever will."
"Have a care Lesu." Povu cut in. "It is not wise to dismiss the unknown so easy. We both know there are humans with power. Look at your own son. For years you thought Mar powerless, but you were wrong."
"Mar is Savonti not human." Lesu told them. "His power is nothing compared to mine or yours. He is no lord."
"Have you heard any news of the two?" Povu asked.
"Nothing since Magul."
"Then I have news for you." Povu pulled a wine skin from inside his cloak and took a drink.
"What news" Lesu asked anxiously.
"Mar and Xan are with the humans." He recapped his skin and put it down. "They were seen moving through my lands with the humans many turns ago heading north toward Fedrul."
"Fedrul?" Lesu sat down to think. "You mean toward Darul don't you?"
"Fedrul, Darul, what does it matter? They are enemies now to be killed on sight."
"No!" Lesu stood his eyes blazing red "Only I can kill my sons. Do you understand?"
"I understand." Povu nodded his agreement."But if they invade my home, I will fight them."
"That is your right if they attack you." Lesu agreed. "But do not kill them. Hold them for me if you can. Now what do you hear of Daru"
"My warriors tell me there is trouble in Gukul." Nebu spoke up. "His lands border mine. I have been told he no longer patrols his border. Not for at least three turns."
"Gukul borders Darul correct?"
"Yes it does." Povu had an idea where Lesu was going to go with this."What do you suggest?"
"Nebu." He turned to the green clad lord. "Send warriors quietly in. Check his cities and his lair. I think you will find warriors of Darul there in Guku's place. I think Daru is moving to take all of our lands."
"And if your right?" Nebu asked.
"Then we stop him." Lesu stood and brushed the sand from his cloak. "From here on we fight him."
"What of the humans? Povu asked on his feet.
"We find Mar and Xan. If what you say is true, they will lead us the the humans. Then we rid ourselves of both our enemies. You can both message me with a baebat with any news. We meet again in two turns here. Is that agreed?
"And how can I help?" Povu asked as he climbed back on his Tracker.
"Finding Mar and Xan". He grabbed the reins and hoist himself on to his Tracker. "It is time to end the madness on Pentanthin. Ride My Brothers."

"Hurry!" Jovan called ahead to his companions as they ran crashing through the forest. "It's right behind us!"
From behind them they could all hear the roars and the snarling of the beast chasing behind them. They didn't have a moment to lose if they wanted to make he safety of the caves ahead.
Grabbing Nysa , Luke took her in his arms ran the last twenty feet to the cave entrance and dived in. Behind him,Jovan leaped for his life while pulling his sword free. He pulled his dagger and tossed it to Luke.
"Protect Nysa. Leave this to me!"
"No!" Luke pushed him away from the entrance. "Let me."
"How?" Jovan asked in shock. "You can't fight whatever it is with just a dagger."
"I don't need your dagger." Luke tossed the dagger down at Jovan' feet. He stepped out in front of the cave opening as two of the biggest Tarks he had ever seen came growling out of the forest. Flexing his back muscles, Luke gritted his teeth and called on all his concentration. Suddenly from all around, Savonti warriors charging out of the forest with staffs out aimed at the Tarks. Roaring out their challenge the Tark leaped to the attack claws flashing and grabbing for the sides of the Tracker. As the Trackers leaped high the Savonti struck down sending jolts of power from their staffs into the Tarks. From inside the cave Jovan could smell the scent of burning flesh as the Tarks screamed in pain. As one Tark lay dazed on the ground, a Tracker slashed at its side opening a great wound as it's rider climbed down and stabbed his sword through its heart.
Jovan watched the second Tark leaped up swiping at  Savonti knocking it off its Tracker. As it hit the ground it scrambled to get out of the beast reach but the warrior was to slow. The Tark grabbed the warrior by the throat tossed it into the air to crash down back in the forest. Howling its rage the Tark turned just as three warriors leaped down on it and began hacking into it with their sword. With a last swipe the Tark ripped open the chest of one of the Savonti then fell still releasing its last breath..
As the Tark died, Luke dropped down to his knees exhausted. Jovan with sword in hand grabbed for Luke to get him back on his feet.
"Get up!" He tried pulling Luke away from the entrance. "Those warriors will find us. We have to get deeper into the cave now!"
"No!" Nysa put a hand on Jovans arm. "It's over. Look."
Jovan looked out expecting to see the warriors heading into the cave after them. But all he saw was the two dead Tarks.
"I don't understand." He looked at Nysa and Luke confused.
"The warriors weren't real" Luke smiled. "I made them. They were illusion."
"By Rimnar!" Jovan smiled helping Luke up onto his feet. "You can make illusions that real?"
"I can when I'm that scared." Nysa went to Luke and took his hand. She knew how tired he had to be. "But they mpre then a frame."
"We should find somewhere where we can rest." Nysa urged them to keep moving."The smell of the Tarks should keep everything away from the cave. Lets see if the Gekkos left any supplies hidden anywhere in here."
Not far from the entrance they found a stash of torches the Gekko's had left behind. This proved infact it was a Gekko hiding place. Jovan gave Luke and Nysa a torch the lit them with the flint he had found with the torches.
"Somewhere in here we should at least find water bread and some fruit." Luke told Jovan. "Petar Gekko always tried to make sure the hiding places had provisions in case the Savonti were near so the clan could survive in here for a few turns."
"Are you sure we're safe in here?" Jovan looked around at the many tunnels that led in different direction. "Maybe the Tarks used this place for a den."
"No." Luke shook his head. "The big things don't like caves. I don't know why, its just always been that way."
"Then lets see what we can find in here." Jovan really didn't have much choice. They couldn't go back out into the night forest with the Tarks and whatever else might be lurking out there. This was as safe a place as anywhere else it seemed.
After searching for about an hour they found the Gekko's hidden provisions. There was water, bread, fruit and weapons. Luke was now armed with his own sword and there was also a staff which they decide to leave where they found it. They also found warm clothes to wear and blankets. A furred coat for Nysa and warm woolen jackets for Luke and Jovan.
While they ate, Luke told Jovan all about Grandpa's teachings. He told him about Tored and Mera and about the friends they had meet in their journey. He told them that the people they had befriended were here on Pentanthin looking for their old school. They were here from Keanna looking for the academy. Jovan was happy to hear that. That meant help had come for them and that there was a way to get back home, and he really did want to go home.
After eating and their talk, the three were tired. Luke had built a warm fire. He pulled Nysa to him and covered them with a blanket and drifted off to sleep. Jovan sat watch even though he had been told the cave was safe, Lowel's teachings about security keep him awake.
He thought about all that had happened since he had joined with the Academy. His friendships and becoming one of Lowells lieutenants. The place had become like a home to him and the people like a family. Jovan had learned a lot since joining them. Like Vampires and Werewolves weren't the monsters he had grown up believing they were.They were honorable people who he could trust with his life unlike the people that had gotten him in this in the first place. Lord Larin and the one he knew had killed Lisette. Tabor Larin. Now he know that had to be the boy that had  gotten them into the Academy. He hoped one day he would get to pay him back for what he had done.
As Jovan sat and pulled his coat snugly close he wrapped a blanket around himself. He listened to the sounds of the night. The chirping of some cave insect and fell into a deep sleep.
From the darkness a tall figure came out of a tunnel and walked to where Jovan, Luke and Nysa slept. He looked down at the sleeping trio and thought what brave creatures these Humans were. They didn't deserve the fate the Nevac had suffered. Pentanthin deserved better. They deserved the way life was agens ago when the ancient ones still protected Pentanthin and that was what he would give them. He reached out and touched Jovans temple and entered his dream. There was one left and that was what he would gift Pentanthin with.
[DREAM HUMAN.] Sacar sent into Jovans mind. [AND WHEN YOU WAKE, BRING OUR GIFT BACK OUT OF THIS CAVE. THERE IS SOMEONE OUT THERE IT IS DESTINED FOR.]
"Who?" Jovan asked the mysterious figure in his dream.
[ONE WHO WILL PROTECT PENTANTHIN.] Was the only answer as the figure stepped back into the shadows and faded slowly away into the darkness.
Lights swirled through the air as Jovan stood and made his way through the cave. He knew where he was but had no idea where he was going or why. All he knew was that he had to follow the swirling lights. They were going to lead him to something important. From tunnel to tunnel he went seeing colors and sharps darting in and out of sight. He had a feeling he wasn't alone here. The swirling light seemed to have a life of its own. as a danced round before him.
After about ten minutes he found himself in the most amazing cavern. He looked around and saw what looked like buildings from Winterhaven with towers and archway. There were rainbow colors streaking the walls as light from an opening in the roof blazed down through a crystal set high in the ceiling. Jovan thought this was one of the most beautiful places he had ever seen. He saw bridges and high walkways that reached all across the cavern. Whoever had built this city had to have been great artist, but for the looks of the place they also had to be long dead. This city was silent, a ghost city. So why was he here?
As he watched in wonder the swirling light he had followed danced down and into small crevice by a fountain and lit it up. Jovan walked over and looked down. The fountain was old there was no water in it. Instead it was filled with some kind of huge leave like the fonds of a palm tree. But there was something else. Something that had a gold silver and bronze flicker. He push aside the leaves and deep down at the bottom he found something odd. It looked like some kind of metallic sphere. At that moment he knew this was what he was looking for. What the lights had wanted him to find. He reached down to touch it and that's when he heard the voice again. It didn't say much. Just three words.
[GO FIND IT.]
That was when he woke up. He sat up and looked over to Luke and Nysa still sleeping. Taking a drink Jovan thought about the strange dream he just had. But was it just a dream or something more? There was only one way to find out. Reaching to the fire, Joven picked up a nice firm fag and made himself a torch to light his way. Luke and Nysa were safe, but he had something to do and he better do it now while he still remembered the way.

It was still dark when Xan woke up. He opened his eyes and tried to reach up to rub the sore spot on his head when he realized his hands were tied. Not only were his hands tied, but he was lashed to his tracker which was being led by someone. He focused his eyes on who held the reigns to his tracker. Xan shook his head in disbelief at what he saw. This just wasn't possible. He closed his eyes then opened them again hoping what he had seen was just his pain seared mind playing tricks on him.
Looking ahead again, Xan realized he wasn't mad. He had seen what he thought. Leading his tracker there was a great snake like being with a long slithering body that trailed behind them. It's arms and torso were massively muscled and almost black as the moon light of Pentanthin was reflected off it's scales. As Xan looked closer he saw the things head was shaped like a hood. Xan wondered what this was? Some long lost monster from Pentanthins? Or could it actally be intelligent. Whatever it was he had to get away before he became it's dinner.
Tied around Xan's wrist were there lengths of rope. He pulled at them but they were to strong and he was still to weak to break them. He would have to wait and hope he wasn't on his way to cook fires to be roasted alive.
Looking out, Xan noticed it was a clear warm night, comfortable for the Savonti. It would be a bit hot for Humans. He flexed his muscles and moved around as much as he could to get the bood moving through his body. He wanted to be ready for his escape if the chance made itself clear.
Up ahead he saw a glow in the night. It wasn't strong so it couldn't be a town of Ketul. It must be the campfires of a huntg party. As they drew closer Xan could smell the smoke of cookfires. He could also smell the scent of meat in the air.  At that moment Xan knew just what his captor was. He was Savonti. This was one of Ketu's warriors holding him.
"Nazun Yar." Xan turned his head as he head the greeting. To the left two more hooded snake like warriors slithered towards them. Behind them they dragged the bodies of their Human catch of the night. "I see you have had success tonight. You found Ketu his prize. We celerbrate tonight. Ketu will be please with our catch."
"Our catch?" Yar dropped the reigns and puffed out his chest. "You Rak hunt unarmed Humans that can't fight back. I bring back an enemy for my fathers pleasure. How is this a triunph for you?"
"Your success is my success." Rak pulled his sword from his side snarling and slowly slithered towards Yar. "As I've taken prizes from you in the past. I will take this from you. Fight me if you want, but we both know the outcome."
"I warn you Rak." Yar held out his hands in a defensive stance. "I am not the weak thing you remember from the past. You have been gone for many cycles. Things change."
"What change?" Rak snickered at Yar as he charged in sword raised. "You are still the powerless and I am still Ketu's mightiest warrior. You will always fear me."
"NOT ANYMORE!" As Rak charged in swingng his sword down to strike at Yar. A bright blazing blade of energy radiated out of Yar's hands to form into twin energy swords. Rak's weapons struck down onto Yar's and in a flash they were burned in two. Rak moved back in shock.
"I am Yar the son of Ketu lord of this land and unlike my father I am not mad!" Yar stood over Rak. He was not as tall as the older warrior though today he seemed like a giant. "Take your disgusting flesh to those that will eat it and bother me never again or you will feel the sting of my blades."
"As you wish my lord." Rak backed away keeping his eyes on Yar until he was out of his sight.
"Impressive." Xan called out to his captor. "The young lord grows up."
"Your awake." Yar turned to Xan. "Indeed I have grown up.Though my time grows short. And you? A son of Lesu? What brings you to such a inhospitalable land like Ketul?"
"You do." Xan told him. "I have heard of the plague that is on Ketul. I have come to offer you a cure. A way to save your people if you want to. It all depends on you Lord Yaru."
"You woud help cure us?" Yar moved to stand facing Xan. His face covered with doubt and mistrust. "Why would the son of one of Ketul's oldest enemies want to help us? Your people have hunted mine for agens, called us katala and shonal. And now you say you would offer us a cure? Why would Lesu do that?"
"He woudn't."  Xan looked hard into Yar's eyes trying to show his offer to be real. "Lesu waits for Ketu to be weak enough to just walk in and take what he wants. We offer you life and relief from your agony."
"We?" Yar asked. "I see only you, son of Lesu."
"Ahhh!! But I am more then what you see before you." Xan gave Yar the equivalent of the Savonti smile. "We represent the hope for a safe and peaceful future for all of Pentanthin. Not just for the Savonti but for humans too."
"You say you speak for Humans? How is this possible? "
"I have many friends Yar." Xan continued. "Human and Savonti. The time of the White and Grey is at hand and the only way for the Savnti to survive is change. You know the prophesys as well as I do. If we don't, we will fall."
Yar stood and stared into Xan's eyes. he wasn't sure if the warrior was mad or if he really believed what he was saying. All Yar knew was that Ketul was dying and that his father in his madness had been a great part of it's destruction. Yar had no hate or fear of humans. He hadn't dined on human flesh in ages. It was distasteful and just didn't seem right to him or many in Ketul. Rak and a few like him still did but Yar thought it disgusting. But maybe Xan was right. Ketul needed help and maybe the Savonti did need to change if they wanted to survive.
"I would hear more Xan of Lesul. What do you and your friends purpose?"
"We want an allience." Xan suggested. "One that will save both the Humans and the Savonti. One that will make us both strong and able to stand together so Pentanthin will have peace."
"And your sure you can cure what ails us here in Ketul?"
"I think we can." Xan moved uncomfortable on the trackers back trying to get more comfortable."Tell me of Ketu's sickness."
"Ketu's sickness." Xan could see the sadness in Yar's eyes. "The plague my father brought on us all with his insane experiments to make the perfect warrior. Look at me. Do I look perfect?"
Xan thought Yar looked strong but looks can be deceiving. Yar stood on coils the same height as Xan would and could probably stand taller. Those coils of his were probably strong enough to squeeze a tark or a corjo to death in seconds, but Savonti weren't usually so dark in color. The dark color usually meant sickness and Xan assumed that was what it meant here.
"You look strong enough." Xan said as Yar moved to stand in front of him. He pulled his knife and slashed the ropes thar held Xan down. Xan fall to the ground where he rolled over rubbing his stiff mucsles. "Tell me, what ails your people?
"Look around you." Yar gestured to the desert all around. "This place is like death itself. Nothing much lives here. We have no food or water. The closest river is two turns away and that is on our bellys. We can't ride trackers because of our deformities. By night we suffer waves of terrible pain the rip threw our bodies and kills us slowly. Only the strongest of us can stand to move at all. By day the pain is less sever but it's still there neverendng. And this is all because my father wanted perfect warriors to fight his enemies. Well he made strong warrriors alright. He made us katala."
Xan looked at Yar. He could see the pain sending rippling jolts threw the muscle of his long body. His tail lashed about in pain. Their pain had to be madding. These people needed help as soon as possible.
"I think we can help you." Xan told him.
"And what will be the price" Yar snapped. "Blind obedience to your cause?"
"No." Xan shook his head. "There will be no price to pay. We will cure your pain and then you can decide what is best for Ketul."
Yar looked at him susipiously. On Pentanthin a deed was never done without payment of some kind in return. That was not the Savonti way. Now an enemy of his people was ofering a cure for nothing at all. Was this all just a cruel game?
[No.] A voice spoke in his head. Yar looked around quickly for the source of the voice. [It's no game.]
From the pack on Xan's tracker, something small and white flew up into the air to hover before Yar. It was smaller then a baebot with long leathery wings. It had sparkling eyes and a long spiked tail. It circled around him then came to hover rght in front of him.
"Yar, This is one of the two I think that will save Pentanthin." The little white dragon sailed over to Xan and set himself on his shoulder his eyes sparkling from the camp fire. "They are the two the prophesy spoke of and they are not here to destroy us. They only want to help us and cure Pentanthin of all it's pain."
Before Yar could react, the little dragon blew out a stream of mist into his face. Yar couldn't help but to inhale it taking it all in. Suddenly his head began to spin and pain flared in his mind and the mighty Savonti warrior of Ketul fell to the ground asleep.

As Yar opened his eyes the first sun of Pentanthin had already made its way into the sky. A crimsom hazy filled the skies over his head. He sat up and looked around wondering where he was and what had happened to him. At a small fire sat a Savonti warror and a Human talking. Yar pushed himself up on his coils and felt for his weapon to defend himself.  Just then the two looked over and notced he was awake.
"How do you feel?" Xan asked.
Yar was just about to summon his energy blades when he remembered who the warrior was. Xan of Lesul. Then he thought about the queston. How did he feel? His entre body should be burning with pain right now but it wasn't. Yar lookd down at his arms. They were a gleaming shade of emerald green instead of the dull black they usuall were.
"I feel." Yar studdered as he checked himself. There was no muscle pains. No burning knives burrowing into his head. "Like never before. There is no pain. For the first time ever, I am not in pain!!"
"And I will do the same for all the rest of the Savonti in Ketul." Shayn stood and reached out his hand to Yar. "A gift from my people to yours."
Yar stared at his hand not understanding what it meant. Xan snickered and clasped Shayns hand and shook.
"It is their way to offer friendship." He said. "Will you agree?"
"I can't speak for my father or the rest of Ketul." Yar took Shayn's hand in his and shook it. "But I accept and I will speak for you."
"Good." Shayn smiled and released Yar's strong grip. He stepped away and shifted back to dragon form and took to the air. [When Ketul wakes up this morning, their pain will be gone.]
As Yar and Xan watched, Shayn flew higher and off towards the lair of Ketu. Yar looked at Xan.
"Strange creature these Humans are."
"Yes." Xan nodded as he stood staring watching the little white dragon fly off. "Strange yes,  and worthy of our respect and trust."

Academy Found. 57

As Zarin stood and stared at the spot where Tabor Larin had disappeared only seconds ago, he felt the rage burning deep in his heart. He couldn't believe of all the people on Keanna, Tabor would be the one he would find first here on Pentanthin. If only he could have reached him before he spelled himself away. He turned back to look at Dack and Craven's surprised faces.
"That was.." Dack couldn't even say his name he was so shocked. Craven looked more anger then surprised.
"Tabor Larin the bastard!" Zarin spit as he walked pass them. "We're in the right place. The Academy is here somewhere. Come on we have to find it. Luke and Nysa are here somewhere too. I hope they didn't run into him."
"How do we find it?" Dack asked as he caught up with Zarin. "We've come so many miles it could be anywhere around here."
Zarin stopped and thought about it for a second.
"It has to be well hidden from the Savonti." He told them. "Hidden with magic. Magic got us here, magic should be able to find it for us. You try Dack. Your location spells always work pretty good. Form a spell and see if it works."
Dack thought as they made their way through the jungle. He could do this. All of them had become much stronger since this all began. All he needed was the right spell. Dack stepped out and raised his hands palms up.

BOOKS AND SCROLLS TABLES AND TESTS.
A SHINING TOWER AND A DRAGON CREST.
A PATH TO ANDRAKE IS WHAT WE NEED.
SHOW US THE WAY WITH ALL DUE SPEED.

As Dack drew circles in the air over his head a shining orb appeared. It floated a foot over their heads then streaked off through the jungle to the west.
"Follow it!!"
At a run the five took off after the beacon jumping over and dodging around trees and growths. Over brooks and patches of mud trying to keep the orb in sight. Suddenly they came to a great patch of darkness. They stopped before running in unsure of what it was. Zarin reached out to touch it. His fingers sank right in to his wrist. He looked over at his friends.
"It's Blinks shadows." Eheren smiled. "Watch."
He stepped in the came right back out.
"We found it." Eheren waved them in. Holding his breath Zarin stepped in. Once on the other side Zarin stopped and stared. It had been a while seen he had seen the towers of his school he was glad to have finally found it again. He felt like he had come home. Professor Insa would be proud of them all.
"Lets get inside."

In the mountains of Memul, Lord Memu and his brother Loc camped for the day. In a few hours the suns would drop down and darkness would cover the land and they would be able to move their warriors out in secret. Loc had high hopes of taking Gekkol easily. He knew the humans had built a permanent hold out of Fedru's old lair and they were gathering there now in force. But they were only humans. Nothing compared to Savonti warriors without the training or the weapons the Savonti had at hand. No amount of cattle could ever defeat a well trained group of Savonti.
As Loc walked through the camp he shouted orders to warriors who jumped at his word. He smiled that cold Savonti smile. Soon he thought. Soon all this would be his and all he had to do was steal something very special out of Darul. And he already had a certain someone in place that could get it for him.
Deep in his thoughts, Loc turned to head back to Memu's tent when to his surprise, Memu stood right behind him staring into his eyes.
"Brother, is all well?"
"All is going as we planned Memu." Loc spoke with confidence. "Our scouts have returned and report no sentries alert to our march. We have caught them unaware. By the next turn I will have Fedrul in my hands.
"You mean we will have Fedrul don't you?" Memu looked at Loc with suspicion. Loc quickly tried to fix his mistake. But it was to late. His slip had Memu's suspicious nature up.
"My mistake." Loc cut in. "I meant we brother. Come, we have things to plan for the next turn."
"Indeed we do." Memu gestured for Loc to walk ahead as he followed not trusting him at his back.
[I will be watching you Brother.]

Opening her eyes Mera woke from a dream. In her dream, she had been trapped by the Savonti. She was hungry and alone. As she lay hidden in the bottom of a wagon, she looked out to see many Savonti at work building the camp. To her surprise she saw something familiar sneak pass the Trackers and under the wagon were she was hiding. It was her doll Mif. Mif quickly climbed up and jumped into her hiding place and into her arms.
"Oh Mif." She hugged her doll. "I've missed you so much and I'm so scared!"
"We miss you to Mera." Mif's voice was so sweet. Just as she always thought it would sound. "Don't be afraid. We are coming to find you."
"We?" Mera held the as she sat up to talk.
"Yes we. Your brothers and sister are worried. We are going to find you. You just have to stay hidden and not let them find you."
"They don't care." She said in tears. "Tored and Luke are to busy and Nysa doesn't like me."
"That's not true. Your family loves you and are on their way here now. They have friends that will help them get you out safely. Stay hidden Mera. we will find you."
As Mera woke she looked everywhere for Mif but she wasn't there. From all around her she heard things moving. A horrible smell of something cooking whiffed through the air. She lay back and thought about what Mif had said. They missed her. Well she really missed them too.
"Please hurry."

High over Gekkol a red and black Dragon streaked through the air. On its neck rode Erlik Marcos and Drake Tyr on their way to the Academy to warn them of the coming attack.
"There!" Erlik pointed. "See the dark shadow deep in the jungle there?"
[Yes I see it.] Tempest sent. [Hold on we're going to land.]
Spiraling down Tempest found a clear spot and made a gentle landing. After shifting Rese walked out to join Drake and Erlik when a voice rang out in his head.
[Who are you Brother? I can feel your of our clan but I don't know you.]
Rese stopped holding out his arms to halt the others.
"What's wrong?" Drake asked.
"They want to know who we are." Rese smile.
"Tell them to tell Ono his father is he." Drake kept walking eager to see his son.
[Father? Is it really you?]
[Yes Pup.] He began to run for the gate his heart ready to burst. [It's really me,]
As Drake reached the gate it opened and a grey wolf came bounding out to leap into his arms as he shifted to human.
[FATHER!!]
Tears ran down Drakes face as he held his lost son. This was one of the happiest days of his life to have found him at last.
"Where's Shayn?" Drake asked.
"Here." He walked out and hugged Drake. "It's good to see you."
"You have no idea."
"Father." Ono asked. "What are you doing here?"
"I'm here to help."  He put his arm around each of their neck. "Let's get inside. We have a lot to tell you."
"But what about the war at home?" Ono asked as they headed into the gates. "Doesn't Tir Na need you? Tayor Larin must be knocking at the door of the Wolves Lair by now."
"Tof has it well in hand I'm sure and I trust him. " Drake waved Erlik and Rese to catch up with them." This is Tempest, recently hatched and Erlik you know."
"Yes Gabor told us he sent you and Bandit out on a mission." Ono shook the young Gekkian's hand."How did it go?"
"I have news that everyone needs to hear." Erlik took off his heavy jacket as they made their way through the halls to the school admin offices. Things here seemed just like they were when he left. Cadets attended classes, there were even some of his clans children there learning to read, write and providing Pentanthin history for the Cadets. As they walked they passed classes where clansmen and a Savonti warrior named Cac taught Cadets in the use of the Savonti battle staff. Shayn pointed it out.
"Xan and Mar, our Savonti friends suggested we all learn how to use them." He said. "Their pretty handy in a fight. Captain Lowell wonders if its possible to bring some back home with us."
Drake nodded his agreement as they watched.
From there they went on to Shayn and Ono's office where Cutter, Blink, Gabor, Lowell and Azeal waited. After everyone made their greetings and Drake told them the latest news from home, Gabor asked Erlik for his report.
"We found many clans through out Memul and parts of Lesul that will join us." He told them. "There were also a few that were afraid and will need proof we can handle ourselves before they will join and expose themselves. But that's not what we really came to tell you."
"What is it?" Azeal asked.
"Lord Memu is on the march for Gekkol." Drake stood and got their attention. "He's bringing a huge army with him and he's less then a days march away."
Groins rose from everyone gathered in the room. This was definitely trouble for all of them.
"We could abandon the settlement and bring everyone here to the Academy but I doubt it would help." Erlik said. "With as many warriors as Memu is bringing. I think someone will eventually find the Academy here then the attack would be on us here."
"Then we defend both." Gabor pounded the table in front of him. "I'm tired of hiding from the Savonti. I say we move on them instead."
"I agree." Lowell nodded his head. "Can we get in front of this attack in someway?"
"I think so." Drake told them. "I have a few friends following Memu keeping an eye on them. They're holding someone special to some of my friends. We want to get her out."
"In the slave wagons?" Gabor asked. He had that sad look on his face like he was going to say it was hopeless and a waste of time trying a rescue. Drake wasn't going to hear that. He promised Tored he was going to get Mera out of there and that was what he was going to do.
"We're not sure." Drake looked around the room. "But we're going to go in and find her no matter what and we can use your help."
"Relax Father." Ono put his hand on Drakes shoulder. "We'll get her out. But who are these friends of yours?"
"I think that would be me."
All heads turned as someone spoke from the door. Lowell Testa stood with his mouth open as he saw his son Zarin standing there with Tanis and a few of Zarin's friends.
"Zarin!' Rese ran and hugged him.
"Zarin?" Lowell took a step towards the door. Then burst out in tears and ran and grabbed his son in a hug."It is you! Thank Rimnar I've been so worried about you."
"I'm alright Father." He felt so warm in his fathers embrace. "Jandar sent us here to find you all. He said you might need some help."
"It's funny how he sent us here but couldn't seem to get here himself." Drake laughed thinking of his wise son.
"I think Jandar and Rage can do anything they put their minds to. That's why I'm not worried about home. Keanna has the best protection there is."
"So where's Mother?" Zarin asked his father. "Probably in the infirmary, I'll go find her."
"Zarin wait." Lowell caught his son from behind turning him to look at him. "There's something I need to tell you."
"We should give them some privacy." Shayn and Ono led everyone out of the office. As he shut the door, he saw tears in Lowell's eyes. He knew this was going to be a hard conversation. As he walked away from the office, he heard Zarin's cry.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!"
"What's going on?" Dack turned to run back to the office to help Zarin. Cutter stopped him.
"Something's happened here Dack." Cutter had to break the news to Dack. "Lisette was attacked and killed a few days ago?"
"What?" He stepped back in shock. "By who?"
"We don't know."
"Tabor did it!" Dack knew it had to be him. "That slimy hateful bastard killed Zarin's mother!"
"Tabor? How would you possibly come to that answer?"
"No one else on this whole planet would have a reason to attack her but him." Tears ran down Dack's cheek for his best friend. "And we saw him in the jungle just before we found the school."
Azeal and Tanis had joined them when they heard Tabor's name. They had had their suspicion that Tabor was the one Jovan had spoke of but they couldn't recognise him through his disguise.
"Are you sure it was Tabor?" Azeal asked.
"After all the years and all the torture Tabor put us through, I'd know him disguised as a tree frog." Dack looked at them with frustration. "There's no way Tabor could hide from us in any disguise. We saw him and he saw us and he ran along with a Cadet and one of those Savonti."
 "Then we don't have much time."  Shayn and Ono took charge. It was time to move on what little information hey had. "Father, If you plan to rescue the young one the time is now. Get back to your friends and make your move quietly. Get in, get out without them knowing you were there. Keep us advised at all times. Once she's free, your going to be our rear guard. Gabor will provide you with men if you need them."
"I'll keep you informed on our progress." Rese promised as they left.
"Be fast little Brother." Shayn called after them. "Gabor, you will need sentres all along the track Memu will take. We'll need to know where they are at all times. Memu will probably attack you first. Blink and Cutter will be ready when you call and Ono and I have an idea that will help greatly. Stay in communication with Lilia. She'll be everyone's contact point."
"This will be a dark night for the Savonti." Gabor smiled as he left to marshal his forces.
"Azeal, Tanis." Ono turned to the two Vampires. "You are in charge of the home defenses. Get everyone together and use them wisely."
"What about Lowell and Zarin?" Azeal looked back at the quiet office.
"When they're ready, they'll join us." Shayn said. "Let them grieve together for now."
"As you wish my liege." Azeal saluted and they were off.
"There's one more thing." Dack said stopping Shayn and Ono. "A friend warned us that a Lord Daru wll be attacking here soon."
"What friend?" Ono asked.
"Someone we can trust that hates the Savonti with reason."
"Just what we need." Ono groaned. "Thank you Dack. You boys know both your parents are here. You should go find them and let them know your safe. We'll find ou when we need you. But don't leave the Academy."
Dack nodded and him, Craven and Zark left Shayn and Ono to talk in the hall.
"They're coming from both sides now." Ono looked worried. "You really think this will work?"
Ono asked his mate as they headed down the hall to leave the Academy.
"I hope so" Shayn answered. "They need the protection and I don't see any other way. We can't stay forever. I like Pentanthin and it's people, but I want to go home."
"So do I." Ono leaded over for a kiss and squeezed Shayn's hand. "I just hope they can handle it."

"Who are you human?" Daru asked as he climbed down off his Tracker and stepped out to face Tabor Larin. "And why are you here?"
"I'm the answer to your problem." Tabor kept eye contact with the Savonti as they met. He wanted him to see him as a equal instead of an adversary. "I know where you can find the White and Grey."
"You do?" Daru turned and gave Magu who stood to the side a signal to be ready to attack. "And what makes you think you, a human can keep the knowledge from me? What if I just rip it from your mind?"
Rush next to Tabor looked at the Savonti assembled before them and shook with fear. He had heard what these people do with humans. He didn't want to be dinner for any of them. Tabor was calm, scared of nothing.
"My mind is a lot stronger then the people you usually dine on. If you could do that, you would've already done it." He smiled. "You help me get what I want, And I'll give you the enemy your looking for. It's just that simple."
"And why should I trust you?"
"You shouldn't." Tabor shrugged." I don't care if you do. I can leave here anytime I want. But I'd rather leave with an agreement from you. I can deliver what I say and to prove it, I bring a gift."
"What gift?" Daru was intrigued by this bold human. He knew he would kill him but first he wanted to see what he knew.
"This one." Tabor pushed Rush forward to fall at Daru's feet. Rush fell with his face in the dirt. He scrambled to get back up and run behind Tabor but a warrior grabbed him and threw him back down.
"No Paolo!" He pleaded. "Please you need me."
"I don't need you anymore." Tabor bent over to look Rush in his face. He grabbed him by his hair and slapped him knocking him flat. "But Lord Daru needs you. I think he's hungry."
"Take him away. Prepare him for my dinner."
Two warriors grabbed Rush by each arm and dragged him away towards the entrance to Daru's lair. Rush fought but they were to strong for him. He screamed for Tabors help only to be ignored.
"Now." Daru turned his attention back to the human in front of him. "What is it you want from me?"
"Right now." Tabor smiled. "I just want to get you what you want. What I want will come once you destroy your enemies."
"You humans are a strange animal." Daru frown it him. He climbed back on his Tracker  and grabbed the reins. "Your thinking is madness. You betray each other for nothing. You will never rule Pentanthin."
"You can bloody have Pentanthin for all I care." Tabor said looking up at the Savonti lord. "Once I have what I want, I'm going home where I will make my world my own."
"Of course human. Now show me want I want so you can get back to your home."
"Wait until night fall." Tabor raised his hand summoning his magic. "I will be back."
Then he was gone.
Magu stepped up to stand beside Daru's Tracker. Then both watched the spot where the human had stood.
"Impressive." Magu rubbed his chin."Such power."
"Yes." Daru agreed. "Get a collar ready. I will have his power for my own. He will serve me here wheather he likes it or not. In the meantime, we have enemies to conquor. I trust your attack on Gukul went well?"
"Guku toils in the mines beside Resu with a collar around is neck." Magu had that sly look of success on his face. He was begnning to enjoy serving Daru. "Gukul fell in less then a turn. We had surprise on our side. He was on a hunt when we attacked. We took his lair quietly and had him in chains the minute he stepped through his lairs entrance. I left a hundred warriors there with orders to gather his people and execute his offspring and queens. Gukul is now yours my lord."
"And what of Lesu?"
"Lesu will require your personal attention." Magu told him. "A surprise attack will not work in Lesul. I'm afraid his army is as strong as yours my lord. But he doesn't have your powers or your intelligence."
"He will fall just as the others have." Daru turned his Tracker back towards his lair."Take the warriors to rest. Tonight we march. I want them prepared for batte."
With a signal, Daru and his warriors were off. Magu spread his wings and leapped into the air with his men following. Tonight Pentanthin would see war for sure.

Under the burning suns of Pentanthin, Reno and Trip carefully slipped from cover to cover keeping out of sight from Memu's camp watchers. One single snap of a twig would alert them to their presence. Thalia, Bandit and Willow a young Cadet from Tir Na were already in place hiding ready to move at a moments notice. Tored was asleep back off under cover where he would be safe for now.
So far none of them had been able to find Mera. They had searched a few of the outer laying wagons with no success. Now somehow they had to search the wagons deep in the center of the camp and that would be damn near impossible. Memu had no human slaves wandering loose in his camp. They would have to be disguised and only Tored could do that. Unfortunately he was to exhausted from the trip to use his abilities. Trip knew he could make a spell to disguise their looks, but he didn't think it would work on so many Savonti at one time. Five or six, maybe ten could be fooled but Memu's camp held hundreds. He knew he couldn't mask them from that many in full day light. They would have to wait until Tored was fully rested before going in.
[So how do we find her?] Thalia sent. [There's to many wagons in there to go one at a time.]
[I can use her scant]  Willow told them. [All I need is something of her's]
[Her scent is strong.] Reno added. [I don't think finding her is the problem. It's getting in and out that worry's me. Is Tored awake yet?]
[No, he's still asleep.] Thalia sent. [What about a sleep spell? Could that work?]
[There's to many.] Trip sent. [Once they start dropping, Memu would know something was happening. We need a way that they won't expect. Something fast that would make them helpless for about an hour.]
[Thalia, can you hear me?]
[Eheren?] She looked around for her Dragon friend. [Where are you?]
[We're in the Academy. We found it. A lot has happen. Where are you?]
[We're outside Memu's camp trying to find a way to get Mera out.] Eheren could feel her desperation. [So far we're having no luck.]
[Drake and Rese are on the way back to you.] He sent. [They'll tell you everything that's happened here.]
[Good. We can use the help.] She looked up and noticed one of the suns had gone down. [We don't have much time. Memu will be on the move soon. Any ideas?]
[How about the Nevac?] Eheren suggested. [They said they would be watching. Maybe they can help.]
Suddenly hope flared in Thalia. The Nevac were just the answer she had been looking for. They might be about to get them in without any suspicion.  She only hoped she could somehow find them and they agreed to help. Thalia thanked Eheren then keeping low, moved off to where Willow and Bandit were waiting.
"What now?" The shaggy brown haired boy asked. He looked out at the camp to make sure the Savonti hadn't caught a scant of them.
"I have an idea where we might get some help." Thalia picked up a water skin and took a long drink then wiped her mouth and give the water to Bandit. "I'll be gone for a few minutes. You just keep watch. If anything happens call me. I won't be far."
Moving off along the rocks, Thalia went down and crossed her arms, then made the shift to her raven form and leaped into the air. She sailed high over the camp and off through the trees to a quiet spot and settled herself down and made a quick prayer the Nevac were listening.
[Sacar!] Thalia waited a minute then called out again. [Sacar!]
[SACAR IS FAR AWAY IN THE CAVES TEACHING THE NEVAC THE WAYS OF WAR. HE ASKED ME TO STAY CLOSE AND WATCH YOU. I AM AVRES.]
[Have you always been watching us?] Thalia had a feeling she knew the answer.
[ONE OF OUR KIND WILL BE WATCHING AS SACAR PROMISED. WHAT AID CAN WE GIVE YOU?]
[The Savonti are camped here for an attack on the people.] She explained. [There is one here we must rescue. Can you help us?]
[WHAT OF THE REST OF THE HUMANS THEY HAVE CAGED? WOULD YOU ABANDON THEM TO THE COOK FIRES?]
[Not if I can help it.] Thalia didn't think she had the right to ask the Nevac to expose themselves to help so many. She hoped they could help but wasn't sure she should even ask for such a great gift. [I would free ever Human  held by the Savonti. We would teach the Savonti of equality and compassion if we could. But we would not expect the Nevac to sacrifice or to open themselves to the Hunt again for anyone. I will never betray the Nevac. You have my word.] 
[HUMANS ARE NOT SO DIFFERENT FROM THE NEVAC MY FRIEND. YOUR FIGHT HAS BECOME OUR FIGHT. WE WILL HELP FREE THE PEOPLE.]
[How?] She asked.
[WE WILL SING. GO, BE READY TO GET THE HUMANS FREE. WE CAN SING FOR ONLY A FRAME AND YOU MUST NOT HEAR OUR SONG OR YOU TO WILL SLEEP. ONCE THE FRAME IS OVER, ALL MUST BE AWAY FROM THE SAVONTI.]
[Thank you Avres.]
With that, Thalia launched herself into the air and flew back to where Reno and Trip hid in the rocks outside the camp.  After shifting she explained her plan to them and the promise of the Nevac. Reno seemed upset she had kept the secret from him for so long but understood why she had done it.
"So how do we keep from hearing their song?" He asked. Thalia shrugged having no idea what to do. "You know any handy spells we can use?"
"I guess I could come up with something."  Trip sat and thought over his spell. "We will still have mind speak won't we?"
"I guess." Thalia wasn't really sure at all. But if they were going to do this. They would each need to have certain jobs to do. Thalia knew she had better have them ready once the Nevac started. There wouldn't be much time. "Trip, you and Bandit and Willow go find Mera. Check all the wagons fron the center out. Willow should be able to catch he scent from Mif. Reno and I will be freeing the people in the cages. Be as fast as you can."
"What will I be doing?" Tored walked out from behind a stack of boulders. "I'm going in too."
"Are sure your strong enough" They all look at Tored. He still looked very tired from the long trek out or Memul.
"I have to be there for Mera." Tored took off his coat and rolled up his sleeves to be ready. "She's my sister. My responsibility."
"Then you go with Bandit and Trip can come help us." 
[WE ARE READY.]
"Trip, start your spell. The Nevac are ready." Thalia waved them all up and behind the boulders out of sight. "Cast it and follow me."

FROM FRAME TO FRAME .
TO HEAR THE SAME.
FROM HOUR TO HOUR.
NO SOUND TO FOLLOW.
LET HUMAN EARS BE SILENCE TONIGHT.
TO KEEP US SAFE ALL THROUGH THE NIGHT.


Suddenly a ringing sound rang through Tored's ears as everything went quiet. Thalia waved him over to stand with Willow. In his mind he heard her speak to him.
[I'm not sure what will happen but I want you to stay close to Bandit ans Willow. Find Mera and take her back into the forest where it's safe. If you get in trouble, call me in your head. I promise I'll hear you and come in a hurry. Be careful.]
Now he and his friends stood ready to head into the Savonti camp.

After Avres had his talk with Thalia, he flew off and found the nearest and deepest cave and went in.  He made his way down through the tunnels of the cave until he reached a great cavern with many tunnels that branched off and went deeper into the ground. Standing in the center of the cavern he called out to his people to come out and help. One by one the Nevac began to appear coming out to see who had called and why until he had a group of twenty their with him. Quickly he explained what he had in mine.
[THE TIME OF THE WHITE AND GREY HAS COME COUSINS. OUR FUTURE IS AT HAND. THE ELDERS IN DEKUZOE HAVE GIVING US THE BLESSING. NOW I ASK YOU TO FOLLOW ME.]
With a nodded they followed Avres out into a world they had left behind long ago. Some shielded their eyes from the brightness of the single sun that still stood in the western sky. Avres reminded them to use the camouflage that would hide them from sight. Coming above ground for the first time, some of them were cold but they were all brave and ready for their revenge.
When ready, he led them out to the Savonti camp and placed them all around the camp then called out to Thalia.
[WE BEGIN NOW.]
Turning their backs to the camp, each Nevac flexed his back opening his wing case and fluttered them to stretch the muscles Then they began rubbing their wings together and their song began.
As Thalia watched, the Savonti began to grow tired. Their reptilian eyes began to grow heavy and they began to fall.
[DO NOT TOUCH THEM. THE SLEEP IS NOT A DEEP ONE. THEY COULD AWAKE WITH THE SLIGHTEST TOUCH. ]
[Thank you.] Thalia sent back. [Tored search carefully. Stay clear of the Savonti. Reno, Bandit, lets get them out of the cages.]
Under the dimming light of the last sun. Tored and bandit stood and climbed out of the rocks and entered Memu's camp. Cook fires burn at many of the wagons and the stench of burning flesh whiffed through the air making them both queasy. They saw body parts cut and on spits roasting over fires, blood on butcher tables running down making small rivers that ran off into ditches where discarded body parts lay. Tored's stomach turned as his anger and fear mounted. Fear of what he might discover to be his sweet little sisters fate. But he had to push that thought way. Mera was alive, he knew that deep in his heart. He couldn't afford to think any other way right now.
They moved straight to the center wagon ring which would be Memu's wagon and started there. Scattered all around the great tent in blue plated armor, they saw Memu's guards. All asleep with there weapons right there in reach. It would be so easy to kill them Bandit thought pulling his sword free from its scabbard.
[Don't Bandit.] Eheren sent to his mind. [Savonti skin is tough. It would take a lot of strength to kill it and it would start screaming the second you strike. That would wake the rest and you would all be caught. Find Mera and get everyone out. Let us deal with them Cadet.]
[Yes sir.] Bandit turned away and went to Tored. [Her doll.]
Tored reached in the band of his trousers and pulled Mif free and handed to to him. Bandit gave it to Willow who held it up and took in the scent then give it back and started looking for the scent. She couldn't find her in Menu's ring so they moved on to the next outer ring.
from ring to ring and wagon to wagon they searched until suddenly andit caught a scent.
[Here![ She called to Tored.
Tored stopped and ran over to the wagon Willow had stopped at. It was a weapons wagon filled with staffs and armor and the instruments for ther repair. Bandit climbed in and ramaged through the contents they stuck his head out .
[Nothing here.]
[Are you sure?] Tored climbed up and pulled open the flap. There was nothing here but cold Pentnthium metal.
[I don't understand.] Willow climbed down. [I still smell her here.]
Just then a sound came from around the side. A groan. Tored looked at Bandit and ran around the side and heard crying. He looked down to the undercharage and there she ws. Huddled down in a space under the floor boards covering her eyes in fear.
[Mera!]
Mera opened her tearful eyes and looked up into her brothers eyes. The second she saw him, she reached out and let her tears flow for real.
Tored reached in and took his sister in his am and pulled her gently out. As she sobbed with her head on his chest she looked up at him.
[I knew you would come.]

Thalia and Reno headed straight to the middle rings where all the caged wagons were. Stepping over and around Savonti warriors they made their way toward the rows of packed cages. Huddled in the cages Thalia and Reno saw men women and children crying clinging to each other. When the people saw them, they all rushed to the cages and started shouting at them. Thalia couldn't hear them but she knew what they all wanted. They wanted to be free. Reno went to the first cage and reached for the latch to open it when Thalia stopped him.
[What?]
[If you open that cage before we can explain what's happening. They're going to come running to get away. They could wake the Savonti.]
[Then we have to tell them.] He walked to the front of the cage and started talking.
[Reno, they can't hear you.] She sent to him. [Remember the spell and the Nevac?]
Reno looked back at the cages of peoples. They were starting to bash themselves against the sides and ram into the bars to get out. As Thalia said, they were going to tear themselves apart trying to escape.
[Thalia! I found her!]
[That's good Tored.] That was one problem off her mind. Now for the big one. [Get her out of the camp.We're having problems. You and Willow get her back to the hills where she'll be safe.]
[We're on our way.]
[No!] Mera wiped her face and struggled to get down out of Tored's arm's. He put her down then bent to look her in the eyes.
[What is it Mera?] He asked.
[I want to help.] She turned and ran off into the camp. [I will help.]
[Mera no! Come back!]
Scared no more, Mera ran with Tored chasing right behind her. She passed through and around a ring of warriors sleeping besides a fire with a charred torso still on the spit. Tored and Bandit was disgusted at the sight but Mera moved with confidence like she hadn't even seen it. On she went until she found the slave pens where Thalia and Reno were still trying to get the people to calm down.
Mera stopped, then with Mif in her arms she walked slowly to stand before the crazed people ripping at the wood of the cages. Behind her, Tored and Bandit finally came around the wagon to find Mera staring blank eyed into the cages.
[What are you doing here?] Thalia ran to Tored. [Get her away before they tear those cages apart!]
[No. It's alright.] She sent out to them. [We will help you.]
With the speed of thought, suddenly a calmness came over the cages and everyone turned to look at Mera and sat quietly down.
Thalia looked at Tored amazed. She had tried projecting her thoughts to the people but nothing she did would calm their fear. Now this little girl had done it with a single thought.
[They hear you?] Thalia asked.
[Yes.] Mera nodded smiling. [They want to go home. They're scared. Can we let them go now?]
[Tell them to follow us and not to touch any of the Savonti.] Thalia pointed Reno and Bandit to the locks to get them open. [Make them promise to be calm and quiet.]
[They will.] Mera moved to the door Reno was unlocked and waved the people out. Slow and calmly they all began to climb down out of the cages and gather around Mera.
[Tored, you and Mera start leading them away. Bandit, the Trackers. I want Memu on foot from here on. That'll slow him down.]
Like a Pied piper a line of men women and children marched silently out of Memu's camp with Tored and Mera at its head. Each one being very careful not to touch or disturb any of the enemy sleeping all around them. Bandit, Willow and Reno went to Memu's corral. They opened the gate and coaxed the Trackers out and on the run into the hills.
[What are we going to do with all these people?] Reno asked Thalia while they watched the people march by. Reno was surprise there were some many of them and so calm. There had to be at least fifty there. [We can't take them with us.]
[I think I know.] Thalia could think of only one solution. But it would be up to Mera to make it work. [Avres, can I ask another favor?]
[WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP?]
[Can you hide these people in the cave until it's safe and Memu is gone from here?]
[YES BUT ONE OF YOU WILL HAVE TO STAY WITH THEM.]
[Thank you.]
Thalia made her way through the crowd to the front where Mera, Tored and Willow led the group. She hoped Mera was up to leading her new friends.

After Pentanthin's last sun slipped pass the horizon, Reno, Tored and Bandit were hidden back in the hills. Thalia in her raven form sat or a low tree branch and watched as the first of the Savonti stirred and woke up. He shook his head and gazed around. Warriors lay all over the camp, some on their knees and some still unconscious. His first thought was to protect his lord. Staggering, he made his way to the great blue tent where Lord Memu slept. Thalia hopped to listen from the roof as the warrior pushed back the flap and went in and picked Memu up, waking him from the strange sleep they had all been in.
Memu seemed dazed for a second then he pushed away from the warrior and rushed out into the camp screaming for his guards to attend him.
"What happened here?" Memu demanded. "I want answers! Loc, Where is Loc?"
"Lord Loc is out surveying the camp for damages." A warrior answered. "He give orders for us to stay here close to you my Lord."
"Loc is no Lord in my land." Memu's eyes blazed red from anger. "Find him. Bring him to me and I want this whole camp checked. Ready a report. I want answers. Go!"
Quickly the warriors scattered in all directions questioning everyone in the camp to find out what had happened in the last two frames. But it was Loc who returned first to give Memu his answers.
As he walked into Memu's tent. Memu jumped from his chair and grabbed Loc and pulled him up to face him.
"Where have you been?!!" Memu asked his brother.
"Looking for answers." Loc stared back unafraid. "I knew you would what to know what happened here."
"What did you find?" He released him. "Tell me."
"Somehow every Savonti in the camp had been put to sleep." Loc stepped back out of Memu's reach. "Don't ask me how they did it but every Tracker in the camp is gone. I found their tracks leading away into the mountains. It would take many frames or turns to round them up and bring them back. Last of all, every human in the camp is gone. All the cages were empty and there are no tracks showing in which direction they had gone. Impossible as it seems, somehow the White and Grey invaded our camp and escaped without detection."
Something was not right Memu thought. If the White and Grey had been here, why hadn't they killed all of them when they had the chance? They had to know where the Savonti were on the move to. Why hadn't they tried anything to stop them? Perhaps they had something else in mind.
"Daru was right. These beast must be destroyed and driven from Pentanthin." Memu went to the table and poured himself a cup of wine. "Do you know where the humans are in Fedrul?'
"I do."
"How far is it."He poured Loc a cup and passed it to him then waited for his answer.
"Less then a few frames march." Loc downed the wine in one gulp. He didn't like the way Memu was looking at him. The humans invading the camp had changed Memu's opinion of their chance at a surprise attack. "But we still have the numbers to beat them. Besides, we are Savonti. They are just humans, Animals.When they see us coming they will run and we can trap them and take Fedrul for ourselves."
Memu drank his wine and looked deeply in his brothers eyes. Loc was powerless but smart and devious. He did have a way of getting what he wanted. Maybe with enough warriors he could rule his own land, but Memu knew better then to trust him. But maybe he could use him to get what he wanted.
"I will still give you your chance to be a lord." Memu reached out with his force field. Memu reached out with his force field. With a slight movement of his finger, the wine jug rose up off the table and sailed over then tilted and poured a cup for Loc. Loc raised his cup in salute to Memu, down drank it down. "Go get everything ready. We leave in a frame."
Loc put down the cup and turned to leave. On his face he wore a subtle grin of triumph. All his plans were falling in place. Even his plan for Memu and all he held.
"Loc." The hunter turned back to his brother. Memu sat staring down on him from his high backed chair. His eyes smouldered with anger. "You better be right."
Still floating in the air, the wine cup exploded sending pieces flying everywhere.
"I won't like being disappointed. Not even by you."

As Loc left to prepared the camp to be on the move, Thalia watched Memu sit grimly at his table.She could tell the seed of mistrust had been planted between the brothers and with just a little fanning, they might just be able to use it to their advantage.
Taking to the air, Thalia sailed high out of Memu's camp. From high in the air she saw the camps cook fires being dowsed and weapons wagons being un loaded. Thewere getting ready to be on the move. She needed to get back to the others and get them ready to follow.
[Thalia] It was Reno calling.
[What is it Reno?]
[Drake is back with Rese andCutter.] He sent. {Drake wants to know where you are.]
[I'm on my way back to meet you. Have everyone ready. The camp is about to be on the march.]
[We're ready.]
In less then five Pentanthin units, Thalia spotted her friends and dropped down to land next to Reno. With Reno stood Bandit and Tored with small pacs on their backs. A few feet away, Drake and Trip talked with Cutter and Rese. When the saw her shift, they came over to greet her.
"I guess you found the Academy." Thalia hugged Rese and bowed to Drake. "We were about to get Mera out and all of the people in the wagons. We also chased away all of his Trackers so they will be on feet from here. Reno, you should keep watch. Lord Memu and Loc wll probably send scouts out look for us."
"I'll take Bandit with me." He smiled and gripped Bandit's shoulder. "Get caugt up and tel us when your ready to go."
Thalia noddd then urged them over to their camping area to sit and talk.
"Did you catch up with Zarin and Dack?"
"Yes we did." Drake and Cutter took a seat and passed Thalia a waterskin filled with warm cattle blod they had brought for her. She drank deeply. She hadn't feed in a few days with all the running they had been doing. The blood filled her tired body with strength. "Theres a lot we have to tell you but it can wait. What goes on with Lord Memu?
"They plan to be in Gekkol by daybreak." She wiped her mouth. "The attack will come in three parts. Loc in the lead and Memu with two forces coming in on the left and right. There will be no escape."
"That's what they think." Cutter smiled. "Gabor will be ready, but we have to slow them down cause we have another problem."
"What?" Thalia asked.
"Tabor is here." Cutter told them.
"OH NO!!" Trip staggered back in shock. "How?
"He was in the Academy when Kalin moved it here." He explained. "Azeal thinks he was sent in to stop the Academy from being moved then trapped here. But I'm afraid it gets even worst."
"I hope your not about to tell me what what I think you are." Trip flopped down. The news was getting worst by the minute.
"There was a murder in the school." Drake told them. "Lissette Testa. We think Tabor killed her."
Death was a normal think for vampires. You could die and be reborn as a vampire or a number of other beings on Keanna. But when Thalia and Trip heard of Zarin's mothers death, it was like being stabbed in the soul. They had both met her and spent time with the Testa family. Lowell and Lissette treated Dack, Thalia and Reno like they were there own chldren. Zarin must have been devastated. Reno is going to freak when he hears the news. She was like a second mother to him after is own family was killed.
"That's not why Tabor was in the Academy." Trip told them through tearful eyes. He looked at Thalia surpsed she idn't remember. "He's after the Ring."
"By Rimnar the ring!" Thalia had a look of compete shock on her face. She jumped to her feet,"Could he have found it?"
"What ring are you taking about?" Drake and Cutter were both confused. This was the first they had heard of any ring.
Calmly Thalia told them how for them this had all began. About the trip to Lands End and hearing Tabors tell his friends of his fathers plan to take over Winterhaven with the help of the power of the Ring of Endrin. The minute Drake heard the nae of the Ring, he knew they were in eve more trouble then any of them had thought.
"Did he know where the ring was?" Drake asked them. "This is impotant. Does he?"
"No." Trip shook his head."Only I know where it is."
"Tell me. I'll let them know in the Academy and they can go find it."
"They won't find it." Trip looked at Drake scared. "Only I can get it."
"Then we have nothing to worry about." Cutter relaxed. "If only you can get it, Tabor can't have found it."
"You don't know Tabor like we do." Thalia said. "If he knows it's there, he'll figure some way out to get his hands on it. And if he finds it, he'll be more powerful then his father and Polan Dressek put together. He'll have the power to destroy the ragons or anyon else in his way."
Drake had heard of the Ring of Endrin. His father had told him long ago of many magical things on Keanna, but he had thought it all was a myth. A scary story parents to children in the night to keep them in line. But he also thought the Dragon talisman were myths until one was presented to him for his protection. If the Ring was in the Academy, it had to be found and now.
"Trip." Drake stood pulling the young an to his feet. "Tabor is on the run. We think he joined with a Savonti lord named Daru. He's very dangerous and powerful. You know what will happen here on Pentanthin if they get a hold of that ring. Millions of people will die. You have to find it and get it to Shayn and Ono. Eheren and Kalin Ka will know what to do with it. Head south, I will have Azeal and Tanis meet you and bring you to the Academy. Hurry please."
"I will." He turned and hugged and kissed Thalia then Rese. Trip ruffled his hair and told him to be careful then grabbed his staff, spread his cloak and shifted to his raven form. With a caw he leaped into the air and flew off heading south.
"Now for Memu and Loc." Drake smiled at Thalia. "Tell me everything you know."