Fear the Seventh. 13

The afternoon sun had dipped and evening would soon be upon the brother and sister elves as they rode away from Winterhaven. Adanar kept his sword ready and a spell in mind for use in case it was needed. He pushed them on as fast and as far as he could. He knew they wouldn't be safe until they could get one of Winterhaven's now dark forest. All day while they rode they had heard things in the forest and knew they were being watched. But by what they had no idea. All Adanar knew was that he couldn't allow whatever it was to stop them. He knew how to defend his sister, but he didn't know if he could or what was out there, so they rode.
But soon hungry had them and they both needed rest and so did there horses. Adanar know it was time to find somewhere they could rest so he pushed on. Then he saw just what they needed, a clearing with a small lake.
" Look Emrel!" He pointed. " There's a spot."
" Are you sure?" She asked worried. " We're still in Winterhaven."
" It's the best we'll do for now. The horses need rest, and so do you."
together rode into the clearing. It was beautiful with a nice crystal clear lake with swans swimming around. It smelled of fresh violets, so peaceful and calming. Adanar looked around, he didn't see anything but squirrels and woodland animals. This place looked perfect to them. They climbed down from there horses and led them to the lake to drink. From his saddlebag he took a loaf of bread and a wrap of cheese with his canteen for them. Emrel pulled a bed roll from her horse and spread it out. She didn't want to admit it, but she was very tired. She could feel the calming of this place beginning to affect her. She sat down and yawned. Adanar reached down and gave her the canteen and sat down.
" Emrel." He said. " Are alright? You look so tired."
" Yes, I'll be fine." She said open the water to drink. She tilted back the canteen and drank deep loving the feeling of the cool liquid soothing her throat. Once done she gave it back to her brother.
" Have something to eat." He said. " You'll feel better."
Emrel took the cheese from Adanar then cut it into pieces and passed some back to him. Adanar looked at his sister. Her face looked tired and worried. What was wrong he asked himself. They had escaped Winterhaven and were on there way home But this didn't seem to give her any relief. Adanar had always been closest to his younger sister and could almost read her mind without her allowing him in. Just a look at her face always told him what was on her mind and today he saw fear.
" Emrel, what is it?" He asked. " We're on our way home. You should feel relieved."
" I know brother, but I'm not." She looked away from him her hands in her lap and the food untouched. " Something is wrong. I don't know what, but I feel it."
Adanar reached over and lifted her face to look at him. He wiped away a tear on her cheek and smiled at her.
" You know I won't let anyone touch you." He said. " Your safe with be here."
" Am I?" She said. She gazed around at the forest beyond the clearing. " Are we really safe?"
Adanar look into the forest. He hadn't noticed how silent it had gotten. A chill ran through him. Were they safe? He wondered.
" We should get some rest." Adanar stood and walked to there mounts and took down the blankets they had taken with them. He bought them back to Emrel and handed two to her. " We can move on in the morning."
" I don't know if I can sleep here." She said. " This forest just scares me to much."
" Try sister. I'll stay up and guard the clearing."

Word had come to Tayor from each gate and the barracks of there victory. Success, he thought. He had only one more objective and one thorn left in his side. Insa had somehow escaped him. He didn't know how, but the dragon was no where to be found on the grounds of the building. How could he have gotten out? He was completely incapacitated, unable to move or use any magic. He had to have had help to get away. He paced back and forth in the council building trying to figure out who could have helped him. It could only have come from someone from the Academy. But it couldn't have been that damned Testa boy, he wasn't anywhere in Winterhaven. Maybe another professor or maybe one of the last council members he hadn't found yet. There were still five left at large and he had a feeling he knew where they could be found. In the Academy. there's no where else they could be.
Suddenly a howling sound began ringing through the room. the windows began to rattle back and forth as Tayor looked around. Tayor clutched his cane thinking he was about to be attacked when the window exploded and blew in. He braced himself for the attack as the torches all blow out. A loud scream pierced the night as something swept into the window. Looking up, Tayor found a beautiful white haired woman dressed in white hovering in the air in front of him.
" Why have you called me?" Sarella asked her hair blowing in her winds.
" Ah my sweet Sarella." He smiled. " You are as beautiful as you were described by my great ancestor."
" The monster that did this to me." She spat at him. " I hope he rots in the underworld."
" You were no saint yourself my lady. If I remember correctly many died at your hands too." Tayor said. " That's why your here. Your ruthlessness helped make you the Banshee you are now."
" They were my people to do with as I please." She wailed. " Now all I want is to get to the under world so I can be reunited with your great father to have my revenge."
" And you think Nestor will allow that?" He laughed, " The Lord of the underworld would never let you have your way. He does the punishing there. But I have another choice for you."
" And that is?" Sarella settled down to listen to his offer.
" Serve me." He said. " Serve me and do as I say and I can free you and maybe ever give you back Kyan to rule again."
" You can do this?"
" I can." He said. " But you have to swear your loyalty to me. Do you swear?"
" If I don't what happens?" She asked. " I could just kill you myself."
" Then you go back to the hole in the ground I called you from to suffer forever until I decide other wise. And if you try and kill me, you fade to nothing. But I can do this."
He held up his cane as it began to glow. Power began to radiate out causing Sarella's essence to begin to break apart. She pulled at herself trying to hold herself together, but she couldn't.
" I SWEAR!" She screamed rattling the windows. " I will serve you!"
" Good." He lowered his cane. " I may have a job for you. For now, wait in the chapel until I call. Go now my witch."
" Yes master." She flowed back up into the air screaming and out the window. Tayor smiled, he had her where he wanted her and he would use her to his advantage. He would use everyone how and whenever he wanted from now on. Now for the Academy, then to find that dragon.

An eerie quiet had come over the streets since the fighting had come to an end. The city guard force had been take quickly and mostly unaware by Tayor's forces. It was mostly because the city never really thought it could happen. Winterhaven was thought of as one of the wisest most peaceful of cities. But people forgot that there was still darkness there waiting to make its move. Well today it had. Most of the cities people stayed in the homes during Tayor's move for power. The ones that came out had been taken into custody. Their fate would be decided later by the new king. That left Tabor free to wonder and search the city. He started at the docks and moved his way in. Street by street he searched with no indications of its whereabouts. Tabor looked north toward the more noble areas of Winterhaven and saw smoke rising from somewhere. He guessed it was coming the barracks where his fathers men must still be fighting. He ignored it and moved on into to a row of buildings Tabor knew were homes to higher businesses. Ship builders, exporters. engineers and the more highly praised artisan. Suddenly there at the end of the row he saw three men. They looked down toward him the started in his direction.Tabor focused his sight on them. From here in the low light he couldn't quite make out who the were so he readied a spell for an attack. As they came closer he realized they wore the Larin house colors and he relaxed.
" Young Lord Larin." They bowed. " We have been sent to bring you to you father."
Just then a warm feeling began to grow from his hand. He looked down and saw a soft glow coming from his ring. It was near, he thought. He looked up at the men facing him. He didn't want to go with them now, but he really didn't have much choice. He had to obey when his father called. Tabor looked around at where he was so he would be sure he could return here and continue his search.
" Lead on." He said.
It didn't take long for them to escort him to the council building were Tayor was. There were bodies of dead guards and Tayor's wounded men in the halls as he was led through the hall. Tabor smiled at his father's success. They had won the city. He was now a prince of Winterhaven and soon he would be much more he thought.
Tayor waited for his son in the council chambers. He had had the council table for twelve removed and replaced with the throne he had brought and kept hidden in the lower parts of their house. It was a great throne made of gold and silver with a high back sitting on a dais he had just had put in.
" Father." Tabor said as he stepped up to the throne. " I congratulate you on you success this night. Long live the king of Winterhaven!"
" Thank you my son." Tayor smiled down at him. " And you are now a prince, and as a prince I expect a lot more of you. Tell me, how goes your search?"
" Slowly father." He said. " I am doing this on my own now."
" Your own?" He frowned. " What do you mean?"
" Elan has been summoned by his mother on some task she had for him."
" I have heard of this." Tayor sat back in his throne. " So he is no longer in Winterhaven?"
" No father. They left through our tunnel a few hours ago. " Tabor told him. " I gave them horses and a spell to get them safely through the forest. Was that wrong of me?"
" No." Tayor said. " I would have liked to have known, but Talsara is our ally and we must regard her wishes as an importance for now as we may still need her aid. You have done well Tabor."
" Thank you." Tabor bowed to him. " What are you orders for me know my king?"
" The Academy." He told his son. " You know its strengths and its weaknesses. The teachers and students. You will be a great help in its defeat. Find Youron and advise him."
" Yes father." Tabor turned to leave to follow his fathers orders.
" Wait." Tabor called. " What of the two Eventide's? Where are they?"
" Gone from the city before Elan even received the message from his mother." Tabor explained. " Would you like me to go after them?"
" No." Tayor waved at him. " I have another for that. You have your orders. Just get me the Academy. And do it fast."

Talsara sat quietly in the lavish room the Eventide's had provided her deep in thought. She had wicked evil thoughts on her mind and plans to end the Eventide line. As friendly as she had been while here, she was in the home of her enemy and all she could think of was how she could bring them down. She looked down in to her lap at the gift she had brought to present the queen mother. A gift which was made entirely to cause the death of her enemy. How she had hated the cursed Eventide's and their damned scared grove of trees. They were deemed the high ones over all of the elven kingdoms. Even higher the her family the Darkshades. But their day was coming. Talsara had waited years with her hatred for her chance to bring them down since the day the elven witch had come to her court with her damned prophecy.
She thought back to the cold stormy day in Darkshade palace. She and her mate were holding court, deciding disputes and passing judgements over those before them. The hall was full with nobles and any other with business with there liege lords. She, being the supreme one made all the decisions. Wyn her mate giving advice, but Talsara held her lands in with a strict hand. Her punishments were quite sever. After a day long day of rulings, it was told to her that there was just one left to see.
" Bring them in." She told her aid. He called to the guards to let the last petitioner in. The doors open and a tall woman in gray hooded robes entered. Suddenly the great hall became quiet for they all know the Prophetess Hasmira Caldas. Her predictions were know though out Darkshade for there accuracy. All her predictions had always come true. Hasmira had served Talsara's mother and grandmother faithfully in there rule. But her's was a different story. when younger Talsara had caused the prophets lone son Liat to be taken unjustly and executed for something she had done. Talsara had never been caught for her crime. She thought the old woman useless no matter what her grandmother told her.
Walking proudly Hasmira made her way to stand before the throne. There she stopped and bowed. Talsara looked down on her with contempt.
" Why are you here." She asked.
" I have words you must hear Majesty." She said. " So I come before you."
" What could you possibly have to say that would interest me?" Talsara sat back in her throne ready to dismiss the elder Prophet.
" Words that pertain to the fate of the realm." Hasmira pushed back her hood to reveal her aged face. " Does that interest you?"
Talsara opened her mouth to cut her down and order the guards to remove her when Wyn, her mate stopped her,
" We should hear her." He said. " She has always been loyal to the Darkshade. I don't think she would betray us."
" She hates me." Talsara hissed back.
" Hear her." He said. " Its wise to gather all information to make a decision. Your mother always said this."
" Very well." The queen turned back to Hasmira." Speak old one."
" My words are only for your Majesties ears." Hasmira bowed. " Your future is at stake here."
Talsara looked down at the aged woman before her. She didn't trust her but Wyn was right. She would never betray the Darkshade, not even for revenge. against her.
" Clear the hall!!" She ordered. Quickly the house guard show everyone out. Soon Talsara, Wyn and Hasmira were alone in the great hall.
" What have you to say?" She sat back in her throne getting comfortable.
" In the days of the new dragons and when Winterhaven again has a king. Danger will threaten the light and the dark. One tribe will die. Heed these words.

1 and 2 will die.
3 will be wild.
4 will rule fear.
5 will be king.
6 will find seven.
7 will be the destruction of light or dark.
Of Tide or Shade. Fear the Seventh.

Talsara stood furious at the words she heard. How dare this woman threaten her house. She looked down to Hasmira bringing forth a spell to blast her where she stood.
" Na nin meleth!!" Wyn jumped to his feet and took her by the shoulders.Shaking off her mate she pushed him back and faced Hasmira. Anger blazed in her dark eyes.
" What is the meaning of this?" She demanded. " How dare you witch!!"
" I just deliver the warning." She answered. " I am the cause of nothing that will happen. You yourself will be a large part of coming events."
" Of course I will." She yelled. " I am queen. Nothing happens without my knowledge. But you, you will not. GUARDS!! SEIZE HER!!"
" I will my queen." Hasmira spread her cloak open as the palace guards rushed in to take her. " I may even see the end of you!!"
Hasmira spun around in place and in a deafening flash, she was gone leaving only her cloak in her place. Talsara rushed down from her throne and looked around. Damn the with she thought. She held up her hand to stop the guards and waved them away.
" Damn that witch." She said climbing back to sit with her mate. Wyn looked at her and started to speak.
" Quiet!" She said. He settled back knowing better then to disobey her. Talsara's anger was nothing to play with.What could her prophecy mine? She thought. Something would happen to one of the two tribes. She would have to keep an eyes on the Eventide's. There fates my be tied together. Only time will tell.
That was over two hundred and fifty years ago, before Emrel or Adanar's birth. Before Elan had been born. Then the Eventide children numbered only five and King Tanyl still ruled there lands. Men ruling there house. Talsara thought that only made them weak and easy to defeat. But she had known Tanyl, he was a formidable ruler. But Evindel would be no match for her. Neither would his weak mate, but Dasyra was different. She and her elder two children the dragons could be a real threat. But Winterhaven should keep the two dragons busy and her gift will take care of Dasyra. She smiled as she lifted the necklace to look at it. It was beautiful, perfect for the house of Eventide. A beautiful bronze oak leaf fit in the palm of her hand Tayor Larin had made for her. In the center of the leaf was an acorn with a brown amber shell. Talsara gazed into the crystal and watch the light glint off of it. She knew Dasyra would love it. It represented nature and their scared grove. But once she put it on, Dasyra would be doomed. It would bond to her and sap all her magic and strength. Completely putting her to sleep eliminating her. In a few hours, she would be bed ridden. To weak to even lift her head, to just die in her bed. Then Talsara would be free to execute her plans.
Suddenly there was a knock at the door. Talsara looked up to the time candle and knew it was time for her audience with Evindel and Dasyra. She put the necklace back in the pouch and wrapped it tight.
" Enter." She called.
The door opened and one of her aids stepped in and bowed.
" My queen." He said. " The Eventide's await you."
" Very good." She took her dark shift from the hook and wrapped herself. " Lead the way."

By the time Elan and Aron had all their supplies ready and had their horses, the sun had set. Tabor showed them the way to the tunnels and bid them farewell. Elan and Aron rode on hard into the evening light. Trying to find any signs of where Emrel and Adanar had gone. But in the darkening light, it seemed impossible. So they found a place to camp and stopped for the night. While Elan set up camp, Aron went through their food to find them dinner. From the Academy's kitchen they had taken some dried fruit and meat. They had found breads they could take and Aron made a meal for them. Once camp was set, they sat down to eat and relax.
" Where are we going?" Aron look at his partner. He had a sadness in his eyes.
" Aron." Elan laid down his plate. " You know what I have to do. I don't have a choice in this."
" Then you will marry Emrel?" He asked. " To join your houses?"
" I think I must."
" And what of me?" Aron looked deep in his loves eyes. " Am I to be the sin that you will hide from this day on? Should I just get on my horse and ride into the forest and let it take me?"
" No, you will always be at my side." Elan reached over and took Aron's hand.
" As what?" He pulled away. " Your whore! I can't do that! I love you Elan. We have taken the oath and you we are bonded. Can you toss me aside that easy?"
" No I can't." Elan turned him back to look at him. " I know I can't live without you. You know I could never love Emrel. Perhaps I could do away with her in time."
Aron's eyes flew open in shock at what he had just heard and he jumped to his feet. Since he had been away from his mother, Elan had been a different person. Sure when with Tabor he had been cruel to his classmate. But Aron knew what was truly deep in Elan's heart. He could never hurt another unless they were a deadly threat to one of them.
" So you you could just kill her and be done with it? Aron shouted his pale elven face twisted in anger. " Is that the man I love? A cruel imitation of his mother the dark queen?"
" Your right Aron." Elan stood and took Aron in his arms. " It is my mother talking in me. That's why I can't lose you. I can't go back to the cold uncaring elf the she sent to the academy so long ago. That boy died the day he met you."
" The what do we do nin meleth?" Tears fear from Aron's eyes onto Elan's shoulder.
" I don't know." He said hugging him close. " But I swear to you now, I will marry none ever but you. We will find a way out of this. That I promise."
" And if we can't?" Aron looked up at him. Suddenly something struck Elan. A familiar looking on Aron's face. For a second he could have sworn he looked exactly like the princess Emrel. Then he pushed the hair away from his eyes and saw his love staring back at him.
" We walk away." He said as he kissed his lips. " Just like that."

Tayor Larin sat alone in his newly made throne room and thought about his next move. He knew some how Insa would try and retaliate, even in his present condition the dragon held a lot of power. He would have to get others to do his bidding for him until he could find a way to get back in his body. That meant Tayor would be having dragon problems. He would have to strengthen all the guards he had posted in the city. Maybe some kind of spell that would prevent them from entering without his knowledge. But that would take some strong magic and a lot of time to cast the spell. Right now he had other things to worry about. The academy was still a threat to him. There were many powerful mages there and they were all loyal to the dragon. Tabor and Youron would have to move fast and carefully on them. Then there was Talsara, his ally. The task she set for him was of the highest priority. She had to have the Eventide girl in order for her plans on Eventide to work. And if she could take Eventide, her power would more then triple. She would hold the two most powerful elven kingdoms in the world, and if he could help her, she would be in his debt. He smiled at that thought.
For the second time that night the lights in the room began to dim and the howling began. Sarella was answering his call. A window flew open and she came screaming in looking like some kind of ghostly apparition floating down to him.
" You called?" She asked. " What do you what of me?"
" Yes." He sat back on his throne. " I want you to find a few people for me."
" Why?" She asked staring into his eyes. The banshee tried as hard as she could to send the fear into him. But Tayor held tight onto his cane and her stare had no effect on him.
" Don't waste your magic on me." He said. " I have better uses for it. You are to find two elves. A princess and a prince of enemy houses."
" Kill them?" She asked smiling.
" No, bring them back to me." He told her." Unharmed. Can you do this?"
" I can find them." She nodded. "Once I have their magical scent they won't be able to hide from me."
Tayor pulled from the side of his throne some close personal garments of Elan Darkshade and Emrel Eventide and tossed them to the floor in front of the banshee witch.
" Take them." He said. Sarela cast out her hand and the two pieces of clothing flew up and into her hand. She held them close to her chest, closed her eyes and took in the essences left by their owners. A bright light began to consume them as in seconds they crumbled into dust and fell to the floor.
" Don't fail me." Tayor said. " You won't like the consequences."
Sarella began to laugh and rose up and sped up and out of the room. Tayor watched as she left. He wondered if he had just made a huge mistake. He wasn't so sure the witch could be trusted. Well, he would find out soon enough.

Sitting quietly with his sword across his lap, Adanar watched his sister sleep. Thoughts of younger days back in Eventide ran through his mind. Memories of his family in days past before the Shadowdragon wars came to him. He remembered his father and how he taught him how to ride and listening to his story's at night. And his brothers Shael and Zaoir. He thought about Zaoir's wonderful playful ways and all the games and jokes he played on his brothers and sisters. How mad Shael and Jake would get at Zaoir and chase him around the palace only to catch him and end up in a playful wrestling match. Adanar smiled thinking of his two beautiful sisters Seven and Emrel. Seven and the toys she always built for him and Emrel to play with. Then there was Evindel. Always the serious one following his father around paying close attention to every word he would say. He remember the day Emrel had told Evindal he would one day be king. How surprised he was at what she had said. They had been together when she told him. Evindal had sat them down recognizing that Emrel had made a prediction of his future. He made them both promise not to mention this to anyone else. Evindal was also the one to recognizes the Adanar's magic. The way he could move things with his mind and how he and Emrel could see spirits around them sometimes. Evindal was the one that convinced their parents to send them to the Academy in Winterhaven. Father had agreed with him that they needed special schooling that could only be found at the academy.
For a minute, Adanar had closed his eyes, sleep had almost taken him. When suddenly he had an old familiar feeling. Someone was there. He could feel them. Quickly he opened his eyes and jumped to his feet brandishing his weapon. Before him floated a ghostly apparition, a spirit. It was an elder dark elven woman in a cloak. Adanar raised his sword ready to face her. She held out her hands.
" Laev sum." She said smiling at him. " I am not you enemy. I am here to help you and yours."
" Who are you?" Adanar asked.
" I am Hasmira of the Darkshade clan." Her ghostly figure bowed to him.
" Darkshade?" He said. He knew of the Darkshades. Elan was a Darkshade. They were not friends to the Eventide's. " What is it you want here?"
" Right now. To protect you." She told him. " And your sister."
" Why would a Darkshade want to help us?" Adanar didn't trust her one bit. He would be careful.
" Balance." She said. " I may be a Darkshade. But I fight for the light. The light must always win and I fear a shadow is passing over you and yours. I am here to give you the little protection I can and a warning."
" Protection? He asked. " From what?
" You are not in a safe place." Hasmira sat down in front of him slowly. " This forest is controlled by dangerous people. People that are trying to kill you. I have been keeping you safe since you entered this clearing. In the morning I will clear a way through the forest, then your on your own. But I promise you, your journey won't be easy. There will be people after you. Dangerous people."
" I don't understand any of this." Adanar stood and stepped away from the phantom woman. He looked at Emrel sleeping wrapped in her blankets. He knew he would do anything to protect his sister and he also knew they were in trouble out here. Then he thought about what she had just said. something about a warning.
" You said there was a warning?"
" Yes." Hasmira stood back up and began to rise into the air and fade away. " Listen closely. I will not repeat it and when done, I will be gone."

1 and 2 will die.
3 will be wild.
4 will rule fear.
5 will king.
6 will find seven.
7 will be the destruction of light or dark.
Of Tide or Shade. Fear the Seventh.
Seek seven for seven will destroy you.
Or save you.

And Hasmira was gone. Adanar looked around and out into the forest. He knew there were deadly things out there. But he somehow knew Hasmira was telling him the truth and he could trust her. He felt safe suddenly and very tired. He laid down next to Emrel and closed his eyes. Seconds later he was fast asleep. Hasmira appeared once again over them and smiled. Nothing Talsara could do would hurt them tonight, not if she could help it.

The Lost and the New Dragon. 12

It was rather late in the day when Insa arrived in New Keanna. As he hurried toward the Manor he worried about his students confronting the Orcs. Would Micah and Craven be able to take the Orc mage? Micah hadn't use any magic in hundreds of years. Could he still show Craven how to direct his spells? Insa wasn't sure. He had to make Jandar notice him and send help. He wasn't even sure he would be able to make Jandar notice him since rage was away. But he had to try. He also had to find his way home back to his body before Tayor found a way to destroy it.
Insa knew Jandar and Rage's study was up in the family section of the Manor. That was up on the upper floors so, he made his way there. Once in he made his way from room to room looking for the werewolf mage. In one room he found Blaze playing with his children on the floor. He moved on. In the next he found Nautica and Denner talking. They would be of no help to him so he kept moving. Room after room he checked until he came to a room with a young man sitting alone. He sat on the floor in the lotus position meditating. He knew this young man, his name was Eheren. He also knew deep inside him was the spirit of another powerful mage, Magnes Rages father. He may be able to detect his presence. Insa drifted in closer to him. So close he was hovering right over him.
[Magnes!] He called out with his mind. For a second nothing happened. Then the boy opened his eyes and looked around, he had felt something. [ Hear me Magnes. It is I, Insa.]
Eheren stood up and looked around the room.
[Insa?] He sent. [How are you doing this? Your out of your body?]
[Yes.] The smoke dragon told. [ I've been trapped outside of my body. I need you and Jandar's help to get back in. Where is Jandar? I've been trying to contact him, but I guess I'll need to be close to him for him to her me.]
[ Jandar is in Tir Na.] Eheren said. He could feel the disappointment emanating from the spirit. [But I can send Blink through shadows to bring him back here.]
[ Thank you.] He sent. [ But I need help right now for my children. There going against a very powerful Orc mage on the cliffs. Can you send them help?]
[ Yes I can. I'll send Blaze and Ariel to help them.] Eheren stood and walked to his door and left his room. [But there's something you need to know. Jandar sent people to Winterhaven to investigate the problems there. It seems your council is in trouble.]
[ Tayor Larin!!] Insa sent. [ What has he done?]
[ We're not sure. But the city is in peril and your body isn't safe there.] Eheren explained. [Cutter is there now trying to unravel the dreamweave on you and Azeal and Tanis are there for protection, but there no match for the magic that could be sent at them.]
[ And the others on the council?] Insa asked.
[ Cutter says he has two members with him. Councilors Den and Humbridge.] Eheren made his way down the hall to the apartments of the rest of the dragons on that floor. He sat down on a bench to finish his talk with Insa. [ The other he says they're having problems contacting.]
[ The city isn't safe for any of the council anymore.] Insa said. [ Tayor is trying to pull a coup. Make Winterhaven his own kingdom.]
[ Will the people stand for that?]
[ Tayor is very powerful.] He sent.[ Almost as powerful as I am. But if he can use the right magic, it could work. Look at what Balthazar did in Yadessa.]
[ Then we have to get your body out of there.] Eheren told him. [ Your the only one that can oppose him successfully and reorganize the city.]
[ How?] Insa asked. [ How are you going to get my huge body out of my chamber and back here?]
[ I have an idea that just may work.] Eheren stood. [ But I'll need help.]
[ There's not many in the city I might be able to trust right now. My students are our best chance. Once Zarin and the others are here we can make plans. I trust them. But have Blaze hurry. I don't know how long they can hold out.]
[ They're on their way.] Eheren said. [ And so is Blink to Winterhaven.]

As evening began to fall in Winterhaven strange things began to happen. The siege began. Tayor knew to take the city, he would need his own troops. Youron had been recruiting men from all over. He had found many of the men Polan had used in his Black Armors and other rouges that he found in other dark seedy areas of different towns and cities. He had visited a few dark elven tribes and made deals in Tayor's name and made promises for their help and they agreed sending warriors to fight for him. All these men were smuggled in through the hidden Larin tunnel into the city and housed on Tayor's property. Now it was time to put them to work. To take the city, Tayor knew that four areas had to be secured. The two gates, the city guard barracks and the council building. Tayor had put Yourin in charge of the raid on the the guard house one of the dark elves Zora Silverhand to take the main gate. The south gate wouldn't take that much effort so Zora sent a few of his men to seize it. Last would be the council building, that Tayor would command himself. With most of the council under his power, he and a small band walked in and overcame the guards at the front easily. The fighting there was over quick and quietly then Tayor and his men spread out through the building floor by floor seizing control and heading for council room and Insa's balcony lair.
On Insa's balcony, Cutter and the two council members still worked to free Insa of the dream weaving without success. The spell Tayor had used was very elaborate and deeply woven on the dragon. As they worked a sudden burst of fear struck Cutter coming from the lower floors causing him to lose his concentration and waver a bit. Kneeling next to him, Councilor Den reached out and grabbed him to steady him.
Suddenly in his mind Cutter received a message. He had no idea who sent it but he knew what it meant.
[ Trouble's on it's way to you. Beware!!]
" What's wrong?" She asked worried.
" They're here!" Cutter said putting his hand to his temple. Quickly he probed the building to see what the trouble was.
" Who?"
" Tayor." Cutter got to his feet and waved Azeal and Tanis over. " He's got a small force with him and he's coming here to kill us."
Azeal reached for Justice and pulled it from it's scabbard. The blue salvation stone in its hilt began to glow anticipating the on coming battle. Seeing Azeal pull his blade Tanis ran over from the door and asked what was going on.
" Troubles on it's way here." Azeal told him.
" Put that away." Cutter told Azeal. " The glow of Justice will give us away."
" What do you mean?" Azeal asked. " You think anyone coming in is going to miss seeing us or this huge dragon in the middle of the floor?"
" They will if everyone can be quiet and let me concentrate." He waved them all closer to Insa and himself then shifted to Cutter. In his dragon form Cutter spread himself over Insa and began sending out his illusion. Quietly they waited as the door to the balcony burst open and Tayor and his men strode in with their weapons drawn. Tayor looked around to see the balcony empty. There was nothing there. No smoke dragon, nothing.
" There's nothing here!" A dark elf said in surprise. They all took a few steps in to search around.
" Where is he?" Tayor shouted. He walked in stopping just before he stepped on Cutter's tail. Quietly Tanis pulled a dagger from inside his shirt, ready to strike at Tayor. Azeal gripped his arm to warn him not to act.
" Spread out and search the building." Tayor told his men. " I don't know how he did it, but he has to be here somewhere."
Nodding to their leader the dark elves all turned and ran out of the chamber. Tayor stood there for a minute looking around. He could still feel Insa's magic in the room. He had no idea to was actually the dragon's presence he was feeling.
" I'll find you." He said. " And when I do, we'll find out who rules Winterhaven. Me or you."
He turned and walked out of the chamber leaving Cutter to drop his illusion and the rest to breathe easy.
" Now what?" Azeal asked. Tanis when to the door and slipped the lock back on.
" We get Insa out of here." Cutter told them.
" How do you plan to do that?" Councilor Den asked. " I could transport him, but the second either of us start a spell Tayor will find us. He'll be here before we could finish the spell."
" We have ways he won't detect." Cutter said. " We'll get you and Insa away from here."
" I don't see how." Humbridge stepped around Insa's body. " Unless illusion can move us."
" Illusion can't." A voice came out of the shadow in the back of the chamber. " But shadows can."
Everyone turned an looked as a man dressed in black came walking out of the shadows smiling at them.
" Blink!!" Azeal called out to him. " Glad to see you. We have a siege on our hands here. You could be a lot of help."
" I'm suppose to get Insa back to New Keanna." He said walking up to them and greeting those he didn't know. " Then I have to go get Jandar from Tir Na. After that I can help."
" Can you take them to also?" Cutter asked indicating the two Councilors.
" Wait!" Humbridge stopped him. " This is our city, our fight. We could be a lot of help here. We know the city and Tayor."
" Listen." Cutter said. " As far as we know, your the last of the ruling council. We need you somewhere safe where this Tayor can't harm you. The people of Winterhaven will need your help once this is over. Beside, you two can finish the spell to free Insa. We'll need all three of you before long. So please go."
Councilor Humbridge started to object when Councilor Den stopped him with a touch and a smile.
" We'll go." She said. " Just save our city please."
" We'll do all we can." Cutter said. He turned to Azeal and Tanis. " Your staying here with me. We're unknown to these people and I can disguise us if necessary. We work from within."
The two young vampires nodded their agreement and readiness to help. Councilors Den and Humbridge shook their hands and stepped over to Blink. He took their hands and touch Insa's body then extended the shadows in the room to cover them and was gone in a flash of darkness.
" So whats our next move?" Tanis asked.
" We should secure the Academy." Cutter told them." Once Tayor Larin has the city, he'll go there being its actually separate from Winterhaven but still apart of it. We need to see where the faculty stands with us or with Tayor. If with us, we'll have to organize them for a stand or what comes next."

Feeling the wind on his face as they came in to land, Zarin had just had his first ride on the back of a dragon. He loved being in the air flying with Blaze. Such freedom he thought. Blaze had taken Zarin, Rese and Reno and Ariel had Craven, Dack and Zark. Zark coward close to Craven as they flew scared of being in the air and really glad when they were back on the ground. Thalia and Trip flew on their own next to them. After shifting back to human form Blaze ushered them into the Manor and to a place where they could get something to eat, then he went to Jandar's study to see Eheren.
" We found them." Blaze said as they entered.
" Are they alright?" Eheren asked from the desk.
" They seem fine." Ariel said sitting down. " Those kids are really something."
" What do you mean?"
" They defeated the Orcs by themselves." She told him. " That includes the mage, and that had to be some kind of fight. Orcs train in very powerful magic."
" Insa said then had help. He didn't say what kind of help, just that we should hurry." Eheren stood up from the desk and walked over to the lounge area and sat with Ariel and Blaze.
" What do you hear from Jandar and Rage?" Blaze asked.
" Not much from Rage." He said. " I know Jandars worried. And so am I. Ono and Shayn still missing and Rage out with Jax searching for them. Jandars says he hasn't felt him or heard from him in weeks. His only choice is to find Aramis for his help."
" Rage will find them, I'm sure he will." Ariel put her hand on Eheren's to comfort him.
" In the meanwhile we deal with home and Winterhaven." Eheren stood. " Why don't we go greet our new guest and see what we can do."

" Is everyone finished eating?" Rose asked. All around the table she saw satisfied faces smiling at her with empty plates in front of them. The last to finish was Dack as he scraped the endings of his eggs from his plate.
" Yes Ma'am." Zarin smiled at her. " It was delicious. We haven't had much to eat since we left home."
" You must be missing your families and school." She reached down and started collecting plates off the table.
" I'll help you." Thalia jumped up to help her taking Reno and Trip's empty plate.
" Thank you." Rose smiled. " Just make yourselves comfortable. Someone should be here for you in just a few minutes."
" Thank you Ma'am." They all said as Rose and Thalia headed into the kitchen.
" What are we doing here?" Reno asked. " We should be going home."
" I don't know." Zarin said. " Blaze said someone wanted us here. I guess we'll find out soon."
[ Rese!]
" Yes?" Rese turned to Trip next to him. Trip looked at him.
" What?" He said.
" You called me."
" I didn't. " Trip frowned. " You alright?"
" Yes." Rese said. " I thought I heard you call me. I must be tired after all the trekking with the Orcs."
Just then Eheren and Blaze walked into the room followed by Ariel. Zarin and the others stood as they came over to them. They looked at Eheren with surprise. He was a kid like them. That made them more comfortable.
" Welcome to New Keanna." Eheren smiled. He reached out and grasped all their arms in greeting one by one." We're very glad your all here. I suppose your wondering why. Please everyone have a seat."
" Yes." Zarin said as he sat back down. " Blaze told us someone was waiting for us, but we don't know anyone from here."
" Don't you?" Ariel asked. They all looked at her in wonder. " Don't you all know a dragon?"
" Professor Insa?" Reno asked. " What's he got to do with this?"
" Insa's part of our clan, even though he lives in Winterhaven." Eheren told them." We have a lot to tell you all. You don't know what's happening in Winterhaven do you?"
" No." Dack said fear beginning to creep into his voice for his family. " What is it?"
" Winterhaven is under siege." Eheren sat down next the Zarin as the shock of what he had just said sank in. All of them except Zark and Rese started shouting out questions to him.
[ Rese!]
" WHAT?!" Rese stood calling out. Everyone turned to look at him as he looked around to find who called. Trip stood and took him by the shoulders and sat him back down.
" He's tired." Trip told them. " We've been through a lot today."
" What's going on in Winterhaven." Craven asked. " Tell us please, our families are still in the city."
" Tayor Larin has seized control of the city." Eheren told them looking from one to the other. " Somehow he's eliminated most of the council and plans to make himself king."
" The Professor?" Zarin said." Is he OK?"
" No he isn't." Eheren put his hand on Zarin's shoulder. " He's under a very powerful dream weaving spell which has trapped him out of his body. We're trying to get his body here so we can re-integrate him back into it. But we're not sure just how it's going to work."
All around the room everyone listened quietly. None of them knew just what to say or how they could possibly help the Professor but they all wanted to. Once Eheren was finished explaining he wait to see how they all would react. Questions shot at him from all around. He tried his best to answer, but for some, he had no answers.
" So what do we do?" Zarin asked.
" I'm sending all of you home of course." He told them. " Your families will be worried. But that's in the morning. For now, I want you all to get some rest. You need it. Rose will show you to rooms and make you comfortable."
With that everyone stood as Rose and Thalia came back in. Rose looked at Blaze and he sent to her what they had just been talking about. She nodded and ushered them towards the door.
" What did I miss?" Thalia asked Reno.
" Come on. I'll tell you all about it." He said.
" Zarin." Eheren stopped him at the door. " I need to talk to you. Come with me."
Zarin nodded and followed the young man through the halls to a large library. There they sat down to talk.
" Zarin I know you can usually talk with Insa with your mind." Eheren explained. " But since he's been out of body you haven't been able to."
" Yes that's right." Zarin said. "But you can?"
" Yes." Eheren smiled. " It's a long story. Let's just say part of me is much older then I look. I have an old soul."
" Huh?"
" Never mind." He waved. " Sit closer."
Zarin moved over next to Eheren and settled in . Eheren reached over and put his hand on his head as Zarin closed his eyes. Lights flashed in his mind and softly he heard a voice calling him. It grew louder until it became clear. it was Professor Insa.
[ Zarin, can you hear me?]
[ Yes Professor. I can hear you. Are you alright?]
[ Yes.] He sent. [ For now I am. But we need your help.]
[ Of course Professor. How can I help?]
[ Protect the Academy.] Insa told him. [ And all of our students. That's what I want you and the others to do.]
[ I'll watch over everyone in the Academy sir.]
[ I mean all of them Zarin.] His voice began to fade. [ In and out of the Academy....]
He was gone. Zarin looked up at Eheren, he didn't understand what his teacher meant by what he had said. Eheren shrugged.
" That's for you to figure out." He said. " Now, off to bed.
As Eheren watched the kids leave, Blaze and Ariel walked come over to join him. Eheren had a strange look in his eyes like he was somewhere else.
" I know that look." Blaze said. " Rage his it often. You have something on your mind?"
" Yeah, I do." Eheren put his arms around both Blaze and Ariel as they left the hall. " Cutter's got a little problem I think he may need help with. And I know just who can help."

The moon rode high through the night skies as the Manor slept. Zarin, Reno and Dack slept in one room and Trip, Rese and Craven in another. Thalia had been given her own separate room and Zark who would never be far away from Craven slept sitting ridgely up in the corner watched over them as they slept. All was quiet and peaceful in the voice until a sound, a voice slowly began to creep into Rese's dreams.
[ Rese.]
He stirred and turned in his sleep dreaming of old days with his family back home. Then again the voice sounded.
[ Rese.]
He moaned out loud a bit still dreaming.
[ RESE!]
His eyes opened as he came into consciousness with a start and a small shout. He sat up as Trip woke and rubbed his eyes.
" Rese." He said. " What's wrong?"
" I don't know." Rese put his hand to his forehead. " I'm still hearing that voice calling."
" It's just a dream. Go back to sleep." Trip pulled the covers over himself and laid back down."
" I guess." Rese put his back on his pillow.
[ Rese, come to me. Your the one!]
Hearing it again this time wide awake, he jumped up and rushed over to Trip's bed and shook him.
" Im not dreaming." He said. " I heard it again. Someones calling me."
" Oh Rese you just dreaming!" Trip pulled the covers over his head. " Go back to bed."
" Trip you have to get up. I need you to come with me please!." Rese pleaded with him. Trip tossed back the covers and sat up.
" Go where?" He said annoyed.
" I've a picture in my mind of where to go." Rese told him. " It's not far."
" It better not be back into the forest." Trip climbed out of bed. " And do you know what's waiting for us there?"
" I'm not sure but it says its ready for me?"
" What's ready for you?" Trip asked. Trip glanced over to see Zark looking at them. He unfolded his arms and rose.
" I'll come with you." He said.
" No. you stay." Trip and Rese pulled on something warmer. " We're not leaving the city. We'll be safe. Get some rest."
" You sure?"
" Yeah, This could be just a dream he's having." They walked to the door and opened it. " We'll be back shortly."
" We go this way." Rese led Trip down through the hall to the steps and down from the fourth floor to the first. On there way through the manor the they saw a few people but kept themselves hidden. It didn't take them long until Rese had led them to a door into the back garden. From there Rese went left through the hedges until they came to a cave.
" What's in here?" Trip asked stopping Rese before he went in. Heat bellowed out at them from inside. Trip didn't like this place.
" I don't know." He said. "But it's coming from here."
" How do you know?"
" It's calling me here I told you." Rese pulled away from him and ran inside.
" Damn it!" Trip took off after him. " Rese wait!!"
Worried about his new friend, Trip ran in after him. The cave was brightly lit with torches spread every ten feet. Trip wondered just what it was that dragons needed with a cave. He suspected it might be just that it was something so familiar from their past, they always made sure one was near there home. He had no idea what the real reason could be. Further ahead he could hear Rese's running steps, then suddenly they just stopped. As he ran Trip noticed shining light reflecting from the walls. He stopped for a second to look at them and realized what they were. They were gems studding the walls. Such riches, he thought. As he moved on, he began to see streaks of gold, silver and platinum. he also saw bronze,copper and other minerals. These dragons had unlimited wealth right under there city.
As he ran, Trip realized he couldn't hear Rese's movements or breathing anymore. He must have found something. Trip packed up speed and ran faster. As the path turned he came out into a large chamber. Trip stopped as he stared open mouthed at the heaps and mounds of gold silver and gems that filled the room. Slowly he walked in amazed at what he saw. All around him in the hot chamber he saw gems of all types that were the size of a mans head.
" Oh my god! He whispered. Rese looked back and saw him. His blond hair shining from the torchlight. Trip walked in to meet him.
" What is this place?" Trip asked.
" Some kind of treasure chamber I expect." Rese said.
[ No, it is my birth place.] Rese heard in his head.
" Who are you?" Rese asked. Trip looked at him with uncertainty. Who was he talking to? There was no one there.
[ I am your future.] He heard. [ I am the second part of you that will make you complete.]
" I don't understand." Rese called to the voice only he could here. " What do you want with me?"
[ We are meant for each other.] The voice said. [ I have waited along time for you to come.]
" I still don't know who and what you are." Rese said. " How can you have been waiting for me?"
[ Destiny, that's how. We are destined for each other.]
" I don't like this." Trip said pulling at Rese. " Let's get out of here."
" Shh!" Rese jerked his arm free. " I think he's right. I just feel like this is what I've been waiting for. Don't ask me why. It just feels right."
" OK." Trip said. " But I don't know."
" Where are you?" Rese asked.
[ I am here in front of you.] He heard. [ I'm in the pile of eggs before you. Find me and pick me up.]
Rese looked down and saw in front of him a great pile of gems. They were of all colors and sizes. As a gypsy, Rese had been trained to identify gems and know what they were worth. He saw star sapphires, bloodstones and moonstones. He saw many gems he could identify and some he couldn't. But it seemed like only one was calling to him. It was a beautiful black and red gem. One of the most amazing things he had ever seen which he knew suddenly was called a pyrope garnet. It sparkled in the torch lights that lit up the chamber. Rese reached down and put his hand on it and his heart was filled with such a joyous welcome feeling.
[ You have found me!] He heard in his mind. [ Do you accept me Rese?]
" Yes." He said. " Whatever you are, I accept you."
[ I am your dragon.] He heard as the gem began to crack and fall to the ground. A small head of black with red flaming colors on it poked out.
" Rese!!" Trip yelled and leaped for him.
[ Don't fear for your friend.] Trip heard as the dragonet leaped into Rese's chest. [ I will always protect him.]
As the two merged Rese began to feel the power of the young dragon fill him. He fell to the ground amongst the gold and gems and the change began. On his hands and knees Rese threw back his head and screamed. Wings began to form from his back and his skin took on a reddish color of the dragonet. Claws with talons and a second set of arms formed as his entire body began to grow and become covered with scales. Trip stepped back and watched as his friend grew a tail and a dark dragons head. Soon he stood on his hind legs and roared as the change finished and he grew his horns out from his forehead.
[ Tempis is born!!] Trip heard in his head. [ We are one now. We are Tempis the time dragon!]
Suddenly behind them there was a flash of light. Trip quickly turned around to see a handsome man standing there dressed in brown smiling at them. With him there was two dragons. One seemed to look familiar to Trip. He looked closer at the dragon and realized he did know the gray colored dragon. It was his guardian Insa. They had moved him here to New Keanna. The other dragon was completely black except for a silver patch over his eyes. Tempis bowed to the man as he walked towards them. Trip raised his hands ready to send a spell at the man to protect them. He didn't who they were or why they were here and he didn't like that they had his guardians body.
[ No Trip.] Tempis sent to him. [ He's not an enemy. He's my Lord Jandar. mate to my King Rage.]
" Welcome Tempis." Jandar smiled. " I'm glad I made it for your hatching."
[ Thank you my Lord.] Tempis stood back up. [This is my friend.]
" I know who he is." Jandar reached out his hand to greet Trip. " Tryphen Troikis. Your one of Insa's wards from Andros. I want to welcome you to our city and thank you for what you've done for Rese to protect him. This is Blink. He just transported Insa's body here so we can try and help him."
The dark dragon nodded to Tempis and the boy with him. [Welcome to our clan brother.]
" Your welcome." Trip stammered. " Rese is my friend, I will always protect him. But can you help Insa?"
" I know you will, and we're sure going to try to help him." Jandar said. " Now watch this. Tempis, shift back to Rese."
[ Yes sir.] Tempis roared and in a flash he was Rese again standing next to Trip smiling dressed in res,black and silver leather. Together the walked over to Insa as Blink shifted.
" Will he be OK?" Rese asked.
" I don't know." Jandar said as he knelt down next the the smoke dragon. " If Gabriel the white healer dragon was here, I'd worry a lot less. But he's not. I'm hoping the dragonspirit there on the wall will help him."
" What of Winterhaven?" Trip asked.
" I have some thoughts on what to do." Jandar said. " But we can talk about that tomorrow. You've had an exciting night, let's get back to the Manor and get some rest. We all need it."
" Come on." Lord Jandar waved them all towards the cave exit. " It's time to rest. Tomorrows another day."

Cloaked in illusion, Cutter, Azeal and Tanis carefully made the way through the council building trying to avoid notice from any of the invaders. Once on the main floor they watched as the council guards lost there struggle to defend the building. All opposition to Tayor's forces were unarmed and placed in cells in the dungeon area under guard. It was very hard for Azeal and Tanis to stay their hands from the battle. But there was no way the three of them could possibly win against Tayor's men.
" We have to find somewhere safe for us to rally our forces." Azeal told them as the exited the building and made their way through the streets.
" One of us should check the guard barracks and see if we can find any of the guards that haven't been caught." Tanis said. " We'll need experienced men to help us."
" That will be my job." Cutter nodded to them. " While the both of you should go to the Academy. I'll meet you both there shortly. You both should shift and fly, that's the safest why to get there."
" We will." Tanis told the fear dragon. " You be careful to."
Cutter turned and walked off down the lane. As he walked his image began to blur and he disappeared. Azeal looked at Tanis with a quizzical look.
" Think he could teach us that?" Azeal asked.
" Don't I wish." Tanis answered. " Let's get out of here before we get spotted."
Concentrating on the change both boys shifted to their avian forms and took off into the skies towards the Academy.

Chaos ruled the streets of Winterhaven. City guards fought Tayor's invaders in small pockets on all the streets armed and unarmed. Cutter watched as a group of invaders attacked a small band fighting with what every they could find on the streets. As the three men were back against a wall, Cutter ran in and shifted. Roaring he grabbed one invader and through him high in to the air then slammed his tail down on him. Surprised at the attack from behind, the invaders turn to Cutter to fight back. With a quick swing Cutter knocked another two away with a crushing blow. That left four invaders left. Urged on by there sudden rescue the guards grabbed fallen weapons and waded in to the fray dispatching the four men in quick order. Standing over the bodies of their dead enemies the three guards stepped up to the dragon.
" Thank you for your help." One guard said. " We would be dead if you hadn't arrived."
[ We dragons will always defend Winterhaven.] Cutter sent. [ But we have to find a place to re group Winterhaven's forces. Head for the Academy, there we can decide what to do next.]
" What of the rest of our fellows?" The guard asked. " Are we to abandon them?"
[ I'll gather as many as I can and send them after you.] Cutter shifted back to elven form. " I want you to also. Everyone you meet of the city guards. It makes no sense to do all the fighting in the streets. We have to get organized. I'm heading for the guard barracks. I think there in it deep."
" Let us go with you." A young guard begged him. " We can help."
" You can help best by getting to safety." Cutter put his hand on the man's shoulder. " Do this for Winterhaven. And stay out of sight."
With that Cutter turned and cloaked himself in illusion and was gone.
" We better do as he says." the elder guard said. All the men nodded and slipped off into the night towards the academy and safety.

The quiet of night had descend on the barrack as Lowell Testa walking into his office and sat down and opened the log book and started today's entry. He and his wife had worried about their son all day. He and his friends were all missing, gone from the city on some rescue. He had gone earlier to see Professor Insa and been told not to worry, but he couldn't help it. Zarin was his son and it was his job to worry, and his job to go find him. But Insa had told him to stay put, the city needed him more. He wondered what the Professor meant, all was quiet here and nothing was happening.
Lowell looked at the time candle on the mantle and noticed it was almost 9:00 in the evening, almost time for him to do his check on the guard post. He closed the log and put down his quill then notice how quiet it was. Strange night he thought getting up from his desk. He looked to his sword belt and picked up. Lowell looked at it in his hand, then something told him to put it on. He strapped it to his side then walked to the door and left the office.

At the gate to the barracks entrance two men stood guard at their post bored as usual. This was a gloomy night as stood there in silence. Slowly fog began to sweep in and cover their feet. One man looked down to watch as it moved in and began to chill him.
" Look at this." He called to his companion. " Kinda warm for fog don't you think?"
" Not for Winterhaven." The other said. " Next it'll be raining on us."
Slowly the fog creeped higher and higher and it became colder. Soon they could barely see each other through its thickness. Then a noise was heard, like the rattling of armor. The first guard looked out into the night trying to see if there was anything there.
" What was that?" He asked.
" It was nothing." The other said. " Just the wind blowing on the sign over the tavern. Relax, no ones out in all this."
But it didn't sound like the tavern sign the first man thought. he'd heard it a million times in the past and it never made that sound before. He stepped out a few steps and looked around. Nothing. But as he searched, the hair on the back of his neck began to raise. Something was wrong here. Just then something moved it front of him and he felt a shape pain in his neck. He reached up and touched his throat then looked at his bloody hand. He tried to speak, but the slice in his throat stopped him. Choking on his own blood he fell forward and died as men slipped out of the night and killed his companion.
Out of the mist Youron stepped kicking the guard out of his way. He signal three men to go left and three right, the rest he took in with him. Inside he knew there wouldn't be any magic users so he drew his sword and made his way to the doors. Quietly he cracked open the door to look in. Inside he saw two men talking in the hall. They would have to be disposed of quietly if he want to keep his advantage of surprise. But he had come prepared for this. He reached into a big at his side and pulled out two small creatures. Two spiders. He held them up and whispered something to them then put them down and sent them in. Scuttering in they made there way in to there intended victims. Slowly each spider began to climb the leg of the man they targeted. Once on the neck they bite them and then men collapsed the the floor. Spinning a web all around them they covered the men and Youron walked into the hall.
" Hide them." He said. Quickly the two men were dragged away and hid away in a closet off to the side of the entry hall. Once that task was done, Youron gathered his men together to give his instructions.
" This will be my lords night. He said. " There won't be many wandering around here. Most will be in the dining hall having dinner. I want the doors to the dining hall bar and these two potions tossed in. The potions will put everyone to sleep they we can go through dispatching anyone that had the misfortune of not being in the hall. Do you all understand?"
All around him heads nodded in agreement.
" Good." Youron handed out the two sleeping potions he took from his pouch. " Make this quick and easy. My lord wants it over fast with as little opposition as possible."
As he finished his men all turned to leave and get to there assigned jobs when stopped them.
" One more thing." He called out. " I want the commander of the barracks brought to me unharmed. He's very valuable to us, do not fuck this up."

Lowell's office was located in the rear of the barracks, his inspection started with the armory and the men there, then he would move on to the stables and the training areas. Once that was done he would check each gate then move in to the infirmary to check on any reports of sickness and injuries. The last place on his tour would be the dining hall. There he would have a lite snack before his journey home to Lisette to see if she had any news of Zarin and the others. As Lowell stepped outside in the fog he had the strange feeling something was wrong. He scan the area outside and cautiously made his way to the stables. Everything there seemed in order except for one thing. The guard that was suppose to be here was no where to be found. Could be he stepped in to catch a quick dinner, but that wouldn't make sense. He knew Lowell would be coming and he would be put on report for abandoning his post. This is not right Lowell thought. He picked up his pace and hurried on to the training grounds. As he stepped into the dark he knew things were not right. All the torches had doused and it was in total darkness. The training area was always suppose to be lit. Training sessions here went on to all hours day and night. Lowell pulled his sword and ran for the closest gate, there he would know for sure what was going on.
Keeping low Lowell moved in on the side gate. As he listened he heard voices talking. Lowell knew exactly who was posted where around his barracks and these were not familiar voices to him. Slowly in the cover of fog he moved closer to see what he could learn.
" Damn I hate being out here while there in there moving on the guards." He heard. " I want in on the action. This is not what I signed up for. Guarding a gate? That's rookie work."
" We'll get paid just the same by Lord Larin as the others." Someone answered. " So keep your mouth shut and your eyes open and watch."
Lord Larin, Lowell thought to himself. So that's who's behind this. He must be moving on the whole city and the council. That means Insa is in trouble as is the entire council. But Insa is the only one that can get Zarin back. Lowell knew he had to get back inside to round up his men and head to the council building.
" I wonder if there done with the council building yet?" The first man asked.
" You know you have a big mouth." The second one said. " If anyone were here to hear you, They would have just about everything now."
" Like who?" He heard. " Everyone's in there getting ragged by the rest. Who's gonna hear?"
" I might." Lowell said as he stepped out and drove his fist into the big mouthed man dropping him with one punch. Staring open mouthed at Lowell the other man tried to pulled his sword to fight, but was to late. Lowell grabbed him and sent his dagger into his chest and silenced him. Looking around he found the two men that were stationed here dead. He turned back to the first man and put an end to his days. He had to get back inside to see if he could help the others.
" You can't." He heard out of the fog. Quickly he turned ready to do battle with whoever he had just heard.
" Relax Commander." The man said. " I'm not your enemy. I'm here to help. I'm Cutter,of New Keanna."
" A dragon?" Lowell asked. How could they have heard already.
" We know many things." Cutter smiled. " Like I know your son is safe in our city right now."
" Zarin's safe?" Lowell asked in shock.
" Yes, But you and the rest of Winterhaven isn't." Cutter told him." I'm sorry but your men inside have already been taken prisoner. There's nothing we two can do to free them. But there are others we have to help. Will you help me?""
Lowell looked back at the barracks. He hated walking away without fighting for them, but the dragon was right. There wasn't anything he could do here.
" Will they be alright?" He asked.
" They'll be imprisoned and used as hostages." Cutter told him. " But we have to go. The Academy all be there next target. We have to get the children out of there."
" My wife first." Lowell said. " They anywhere you want."
" Where is she?" The fear dragon asked.
" I left her with the parents of the other kids with Zarin." Lowell said. " Lady Rainer is quite upset over her son, So are the Tasco's"
" Let's go get them." With one last look back, Lowell and Cutter ran off into the fog. There's would be a busy night.

After finding young Tabor Larin and sending him home to wait for his fathers arrival, elder steward returned to Larin Manor and went to the old ruined chapel that was located deep in the unkempt woods in the back of the estate. The fog had rolled and and made the forest dark and scary. Seth the steward pulled his cloak tighter around him. He didn't like this errand at all, but he had no choice but to do as his master asked. He knew what the consequences would be for him and his family if he disobeyed.
The forest was dark with only moonlight making the fog glow in the night. Seth walked slowly listening for every sound. Watching for any movement around him. He saw the decrepit chapel there looking like it was haunted. Sweat ran cold off Seth as he moved closer. It was a small oval structure made of wood once used by the Larins for family occasions. But it hadn't been used for more then one hundred years since an ancestors fiancee was killed there by her lover for rejecting him. Sarella, the bloody baroness of Kyan of the east. Her body had been left to lay there as punishment by her lord and never properly buried. Her bone were still under the broken floor boards they say. The thought give Seth the shiver as he stepped up and into the chapel. The wind howled a eerie sound like the woman moaning Seth thought. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a candle and a match, then found a shielded place and lit the candle. from his pocket he took the parchment and opened it up and read.

MOANS AND YELLS AND SCREAMING WINDS.
I CALL YOU OUT FROM DEEP WITHIN.
COME FORTH O LADY AND COME TO ME.
A TASK I HAVE TO MAKE YOU FREE.

With that the winds picked up and began to scream. Seth covered his ears and fell back as the candle was blown away. Lightning began to flash all around and strike the ground. Suddenly a shadow appeared in the air from the center of the room. It was a woman with long flowing white hair in a black gown with glowing eyes. As she solidify she began to scream a piercing scream while she floated close. Seth trembled on the ground crawling back against the wall trying to hide from the Banshee before him. She looked at him and her face grew beautiful as she smiled.
" Where is your Master?"
" He wants you to come find him." Seth cried. She reached down and caressed his chin.
" Kiss me love!" Suddenly her face turned into a horror and she began to scream. Seth screamed as his blood began to boil in his veins. He clutched his head trying to stop her scream from invading his mind and tearing it apart. The banshees scream was powerful. Blood ran from his eyes and ears as he tried to get away from her. But there was no escape. His body began to shake as he tried to crawl away. Seth rolled over on his back as his head exploded and his soul left his body and was taken in by the banshee. Lightning flashed as she tossed back her head and laughed.
" Sarella comes." She called. " To do you bidding. For now."

Honor bound. 11

As Emrel stood outside the stables that dreadful feeling came over her again. She felt like there was danger all around her and she was no longer safe in Winterhaven. She wished Adanar would hurry with the horses so they could be off. While she waited she saw many students she knew and smiled a greeting. When asked, she told them she and her brother were taking a ride through the animal sanctuary in the vast forest behind the Academy inside the city walls. This was something they did often so no ones suspicion would be aroused by this. A few minutes later Adanar led their two horses out of the stable. Emrel smiled as she saw her mare Windy coming towards her. She took the reins from Adanar and hugged her speaking softly to the horse in greeting. Then she turned to her brother.
" Any problem?" She asked.
" No." He said as he begin to put there provisions into saddle bags and take the saddles from where they were stored. Pulling an apple from her pocket she fed Windy while waiting for Adanar to finish.
" Have you thought about how we get out of Winterhaven?" She patted Windy and pulled him over to Adanar to be saddled.
" There's only two ways out of the city." He said. " Neither are really safe for us. We'll be reported no matter which we use."
" There's always magic." Emrel smiled slyly it him. " I could use a charm that would make them forget after we leave."
" You have one powerful enough to work on elves or maybe vampires?" Adanar thought about her idea. It had possibilities. And he knew her charms were powerful.
" Vampires, yes. Elves depends on what kind." She told him. " There's no dark elves in the guard and it won't work on Morganz. But it should work on the others."
" Then we better hope cousins not at the gate." Adanar took Emrel's saddle and heaved it up onto Windy's back and fitted it in place. Bending down he fastened the straps secure.
" Thank you, brother." Emrel took the reins and climbed on and trotted windy out to the road to wait. Done with his sisters house, Adanar set to saddling his horse, Brand and rode out to Emrel.
" Ready?" He asked. She nodded. " Are you sure you want to do this?"
" Yes, brother. It feels even more intense now. We should go."

The south gate of Winterhaven was much smaller then the main gate. There was a much smaller guardhouse only able to house no more then five men. There were no sleeping space. This one was used only to watch the road out. On this day it was being watch by two men. Bored they sat talking about the latest news in Winterhaven. How strange thing were going on in the council. They talked about the forest outside and how dangerous it had become. Not much traffic was coming into the city these days except by boat. The roads were no longer safe and no one seemed to be doing anything about it. The only way to use the roads now was with armed guards or to be a most powerful mage.
As the talked they heard the sound of horses approaching. Quickly the stood and went to the door to see who it was. Their gate was hardly used these days. It was more an emergency exit then an access to or from the city. Once at the door they saw two regal looking elves dressed in plain gray cloaks coming towards them. As they came closer they noticed it was a male and female. The two guards looked at each other in surprise. Where were these two going? Stepping out of the guard house they stood and waited for the two riders as the rode up to them.
" Greetings!" The taller of the two guards called. " What brings you to our gate today?"
" We're off on a task for the head master of Andrake." Adanar said as he slowed his horse down.
" Then you have a written pass from him to get out of the city." The guard looked up at his as he stepped forward. " I'll have to see the order before we allow you out the gate."
" Of course." Adanar told him. " My sister has it."
Emrel nodded and reached into her saddle bag and began to search for something. A frown appeared on her face then suddenly she smiled.
" Here it is." She pulled out a piece of rolled up parchment and opened it. " I'll read it to you."
" No lady." The guard stepped towards her horse reaching for it. " We need to have..."

MEMORIES COME AND THEN THEY FADE.
BUT MEMORIES OF US WILL NOT BE MADE.
OBEY OUR WORDS LET US PASS.
THEN FORGET OUR PRESENCE AND DO IT FAST.

As Emrel spoke the last words a dazed look come over the two guard. The stood in place looking at them. Adanar climbed down off his horse and walked over to the first guard. He waved his hand in front of his face and got no reaction.
" That spell worked well."
" But not for long." Emrel said. " Hurry and get mounted. We have to go."
Adanar went back and climbed back on his horse. Emrel trotted to the guard and spoke quietly to him. He nodded his head and turned and walked to the gate where he and his partner unlocked the mechanism and lifted the bars to let them out. With a strong push the gate opened and Adanar and Emrel galloped out and away from Winterhaven.

Back in Emrel's room in the academy Elan, Aron and Tabor stood at the door looking in at her roommate a young witch from a far off place none of them knew. As they looked around they could see empty bureaus and scattered personal affects. It looked like someone had searched the room or had packed in a hurry.
Tersa Krell looked up at them in surprise. A little scared in fact.
" What do you want?" She asked getting up with pieces of clothing in her hands. She back up as she faced them not sure she could trust them. Maybe they were responsible for this.
" We're looking for Emrel." Elan said. " Have you seen her?"
" No!!" She yelled at them. " I don't know where she is. Get up of here! You did this! I know you Tabor Larin!"
" Calm yourself." Aron said stepping toward her. Scared of what they might do,Tersa through out her hand and spoke a repel spell. In a flash of power the three young mages were blasted back in the hall. With an angry look on his face, Tabor climbed to his feet muttering how no one does that to him. He stepped back into the room and raised his hand to send his own power ball back at her when Elan stopped him.
" No!!" He held Tabors glowing hand. " Not here. Don't forget our plans for the Academy."
" Plans that are going nowhere right now." Tabor dropped his hand back to his side sneering at Tersa. She cowered in the corner as they talked.
" Look around." Aron said to them. " This wasn't a search, Emrel made this mess herself as she packed her stuff to leave. Tersa, is any of your things missing?"
She calmed herself and looked around. Going from bureau to the closet she found only Emrel's things were gone.
" No." She told them. " Only Emrel's things are missing. Where could she have gone?"
" I think I know where she's gone." Elan said. " And we better hurry if we want to catch her. Come, we can talk out in the hall."
Together the three friends left the scared girl trembling in her room lost and confused as to what had just happened.
" Where Elan? Aron asked. " Where did she go?"
" Home." He said. " Back to Eventide. And we have to go after her."
" That's a long ride." Aron told them.
" Do you think you can get us out of the city?" Elan asked Tabor.
" It's more then just getting out of Winterhaven." Tabor said as the moved down the hall.
" What do you mean?" Aron asked.
" You both know whats going on here." Tabor explained. " My father's about to make his bid to take Winterhaven from Insa and the council. He's set all kinds of things out in the forest surrounding us. You would have to get pass all of them once you get out of the city."
" What do you mean you?" Elan asked. " Your not coming?"
" I don't think so." Tabor said. " Father may need me and I have to find the ring if we want our plans to work. But I can give you a spell that will get you away from here safely."
" What about getting out the gates?" Aron asked.
" We have a secret passage out of the city my father had built years ago in case we needed to get away." Tabor said to Elan. " You can use that. But that won't get you to Eventide. Do you know how to get there?"
" I do." Aron said. Both Elan and Tabor turned to him in shock. They both were a little surprised at this admission.
" Are you sure?" Elan asked.
" Have I ever disappointed you in anyway El?" Aron gave him that look they share when they were alone in bed. Elan smiled. He knew then he could never go through with this marriage and he had to find some way out. He couldn't lose Aron no matter what happened. Even if it meant banishment from Darkshade and his family. He loved him to much.
" Then we better get moving." Elan said. He turned to Tabor. " We'll get provision from Azi in the kitchen and meet you at your manor. Have two fast horses ready in an hour."
" If this all works." Tabor smiled. " We will be the two most powerful people in this Academy."
" Three." Elan said with a stare.
" Whatever." Tabor turned to go. " You just do your part."
Aron started to say something as tabor left when Elan stopped him with a touch on his lips.
" Don't worry nin meleth." He said. " Somehow we'll get through this together." Aron smiled as they left to gather the things they needed to travel.

Captain Morganz of the Winterhaven gate guards rode out to the south gate on a long overdue inspect. He had been very busy lately and had been putting this inspection off all week. Things in Winterhaven were really strange these days. It seemed like the council were split in two warring over some subject no one wanted to talk about. The in fighting was so fierce it was beginning to affect all parts of the city and government. Even the Academy and students were beginning to be affected. Everything in city had a down depressed feeling like something very bad was about to happen and Morganz wanted to be ready just in case.
As he rode up to the gate Morganz started feeling something in the air. Something familiar he'd felt all his life. It was magic. And not just any magic, but familiar family magic. Someone from his family hand been here casting magic. Morganz pushed his horse on faster. He wanted to know just who it was out here casting spells. There was only three members of the Eventide family in Winterhaven. Jake,Adanar and Emrel his cousins. He doubted every highly that it was Jake. Being as close as he had been to Jake and Seven, Morganz knew he would knew his magic immediately. That left Adanar and Emrel. But how could it be either of them? They were both safe back at the Academy, weren't they?
As Morganz rode up to the gate he saw the two guards standing outside the gate house with a dazed look on there faces. The sense of Eventide magic was even stronger here at the gate. These two must be under a spell he thought. Morganz climbed down from his horse and walked over to the guards. Both there eyes were glazed over. At there feet Morganz spotted something. It was a scarf in the Eventide green color. A woman's scarf. Emrel had been now he had no doubt what so ever. And if she was here, her brother Adanar had to have been here to. But where could they have gone? They had to have left Winterhaven for some reason. But he had to be sure. He had to contact the one person in the city that could help him. There own brother Jake Eventide. Cutter the fear dragon.
[ Jake] Morganz sent out.
[ What is it cousin.] Came the answer. [ I'm a bit busy here.]
[ Adanar and Emrel may be in trouble.]
[ WHAT???] Cutter sent back loudly. [ What are you talking about?]
[ Cousin.] Morganz said. [ I need you to tell me if there still in Winterhaven. Can you do it?]
[ Just a second.] He said. Morganz wait while Cutter searched the city for his brother and sister. He prayed to the trees in their scared grove that Cutter would find them somewhere in the Academy doing there lessons, but he was sure that wouldn't be the case.
[ They're not in Winterhaven.] Finally came Cutters answer. [ There in the forest outside. Morganz you have to go after them. That forest is dangerous, please!]
[ Of course Jake.] He sent to the his dragon kin. [ I'm on my way.]
With a few smacks he managed to rouse the two guards and gave orders to let him out and re lock the gate. Armed with only his own personal weapons and a canteen of water, Morganz was off after the two young Eventide. His job now was to protect his cousins and get them to safety.


The council of mages in Winterhaven consisted of twelve men and women all powerful mages in there field. Some dark and some white but all with the safety and the best interest of the city in sight. Long ago the city had been ruled by a king. But after years of useless wars over who would reign when one king died and assassination plots, and plain greedy or evil kings, then had had enough and the council was formed. Since then three centuries ago the city had been in peace internally. Outside wars happened, but Winterhaven always managed to stay neutral and out of the fighting. Even when the fighting found there gates, Winterhaven managed to not be involved. It was usually because they made it clear to the combating fractions that they would turn there magic on both side if they were pulled into the war in anyway.
But now it was their turn. Now a coup was in the making by Tayor Larin, one of the leading men on the council and few in the city knew. Tayor had been working all day meeting with as many council member as he could. His new cane had been busy sapping the wills of those he met. Had taken control of seven out of twelve members and killed one, his first victim. Now he had enough to control the council. There was still four he didn't control, including Insa. But they didn't matter. They didn't have much choice. They could either join him or go just as Bergaise had. Insa was still his biggest problem. Even out of body the smoke dragon was still powerful. There were ways he could cause him trouble. As he sat at his desk he thought he had to find a way to destroy his body. That would put an end to him. Now he thought since he controlled the council was his chance to remove him from his balcony lair and destroy him.
Rising from his desk he grabbed his cane and cloak and called out to his aide Yoron. Wrapping his cloak about him he made for his study door. He found him out in the hall hurrying to meet him.
" You called my lord?" He bowed.
" Yes." Tayor said. " Its time we remove the dragon from our midst. Get you men and meet me in the council building. And hurry."
" Yes sir!" Yoron smiled and ran off. He knew this would be his masters greatest day. This time he would not fail him.
Tayor smiled as he rose up from his seat. His plans were coming together perfectly. Suddenly he felt something. Someone was trying to reach him. He opened his mind enough to recognize who it was. Talsara Darkshade, Queen of the Darkshade elves.
[ Your Majesty.] He sent. [ I'm honored.]
[ How goes your little endeavor?]
[ Everything is working as planned.] He said. [ The city will be in our hands by night fall.]
[ You news pleases us.] He could feel her air of superiority. [ Things move slow here, but in our direction of course. There is something we wish from you.]
[ Anything my Queen.] He said. [ What do you wish?]
[ I have set my son Prince Elan a task. He is to bring me the Princess Emrel Eventide.] Tayor listened closely. [ But he does not sound very eager to do this . I feel something holding him back. I want to know what it is and I want him and the princess delivered to me.]
[ And where would we be finding the prince and princess?] Tayor asked.
[ One would guess in the academy.] Talsara's said sternly. [ If he's not there, you'd better have him found or we will remove our support and all other elven support we have arranged.]
[ I understand .] Tayor answered her and they're connection was broken. Right now he needed the support of the dark elves, but soon he wouldn't. Then his magic would be far superior the her and he could add the elven lands to his own. But for now, he had better send someone to find her son. Prince Elan was always hanging around with Tabor, he would know where he is and maybe that princess to. Tayor walked over to the bell and summoned one of his house staff. It didn't take long for someone to answer him and there was a knock at the door.
" Enter!"
A short man dressed in the Larin house colors entered and bowing to his master keeping his eyes down. Tayor walked out from behind his desk.
" Yes my Lord?"
" Find my son and have him brought to me as soon as possible." He told him, then had a second thought. There was another that could find them no matter where they were.
" There's something else I want." He said. " But this could be a bit more difficult."
He took a piece of parchment and a quill and began writing. Once finished, he handed the note to the man.
" Follow these instructions to the letter." He told the man. " I mean this, to the letter. Tell the one that answers they are to come to me directly if they wish to be free. Now go!"
" Yes sir." He turned and hurried out to carry out his masters orders.

Tied by their hands Trip and Rese struggled the way up the slope. It wasn't an easy climb at all with the Orcs in the front pulling them. But they tried as hard as they could to keep. Skang still had that hungry look in his eye every time he looked at them which scared Rese to no end. But trip was still as rebellious as ever. He would sneer at them showing no fear.
" There going to kill us." Rese whispered. " I know it. Just look at Skang.
" Calm down. Gorak won't let him hurt us."
" Gorak can't watch over us all the time." Tears began to appears in the young mans eyes. "How much further do we have to go?"
" It's a long way to Ardia." Trip told him.
" Great, a death march." Rese exhaled in self pity. he saw his death coming closer as they walked.
" Stop it!" Trip said. " We're not going that much further."
" You mean their going to kill us now?" He looked Trip ready to break down right there. He stopped walking for a second and was yanked into movement.
" Listen to me." Trip pulled the young boy to him. " My friends aren't that far behind us and New Keanna is just ahead over the cliffs edge."
" What's that mean?" He asked.
" It means safety. I'm sure my guardian has alerted the dragons that I'm missing." Trip smiled at him reassuring him. " They'll me looking for us and we're walking right into their territory."
" Dragons?" Rese looked afraid at the thought.
" Yes, dragons." Trip said quietly. " My guardian Insa is a smoke dragon. By now I know he's searching everywhere for us."
[ Not anymore I'm not.] Trip heard in his mind startling him. [ Stay calm Trip. It's me, Insa. Don't allow them to know I'm with you.]
" How is this possible?" Trip asked him.
" What?" Rese asked. " What are you talking about?"
" Shh!!"
[ Talk with your mind.] Insa told him. [ I'll hear you.]
[Professor. where are you?]
[ I'm out of my body right now and I don't have a lot of time.] He sent. [ Zarin and the others are right behind you close. And I've warned the dragons. I want you both to stay calm and follow their direction and keep safe for now. This will be over soon.]
[ Yes sir.] Trip sent. [ I knew you wouldn't abandon me Professor. Thank you.]
[ There are a lot of things going on right now Trip.] Professor Insa told him. [ But I'd never abandon you, neither would your friends. Both of you be ready when Zarin and Reno catch up to you.]
[ We'll be ready.]

Not far behind lower on the cliff, Zarin and the others were gaining ground on the Orcs. Zark, Reno and Craven moved swiftly hand over hand climbing while Zarin and Thalia flew a head to watch and make sure Trip was safe. In the fly shape Zarin had shown Dack he sat on a tree watching the Orcs move. Pulling Trip and Rese behind them slowed the Orcs down greatly. Usually climbing would be easy for them but there hostage made it clear they could not keep up the speed the Orcs could.
" We're moving to slow." Skang called to Gorak. " We should get rid of them now and be off home."
" NO!" Gorak yelled. " We're almost at the top then we'll move faster."
" But not fast enough." Skang pulled his knife to cut the line and drop Trip and Rese.
" You cut that rope and I'll burn you where you stand." Gorak stared at Skang. " We'll need them if there's any challenge ahead."
" Challenge from what?" One of the Orcs under Trip called up to them. He pushed at Trip to move faster up the rock wall. It was steep and dangerous, but he knew the boy could move faster if he wanted to. He was beginning to think Gorak was right. Theses humans seemed to be stalling. Then again death did await them at the end of the road, so why would they rush to it. Suddenly a raven streaked pass them followed by an eagle. Strange he thought. Eagles and ravens don't fly together. The eagle must be hunting the raven. He watched them as they sped up and over the cliffs edge and out of his sight.
" Someone may come after them." Gorak said. " I want us much further away then this."
" Why?" Skang frowned as he crested the top of the cliff and pulled his sword. " Whatever they send against us, we can handle."
" And how many mages can you fight at once?" Gorak asked smugly. " One? Two? more?"
" I'll leave the mages to you." Skang snarled at him. " That's why your here."
" Get the others up and lets be off." Gorak turned and walked down the trail in to the forest. This was a strange place he thought. He could feel the magic all around them. He knew powerful beings had been here recently. Maybe it was this guardian the boy had spoke of. He turned back to see Skang grab Rese and toss him to the ground. Next came the other boy Trip and the others of there group. As the last Orc made it to the top, he git up and ran to Gorak.
" We are being followed." He said.
" Where?" Gorak asked.
" They're coming right behind us up the cliff." Sweat ran from the Orcs face as he pulled his club from his back to be ready to fight. " What do you want to do?"
" I'll take care of them." Gorak started back the edge of the cliff mumbling the beginning of a power spell. He looked over and saw Reno and Craven scrambling quickly up the wall. Gorak raised his hands to cast down at them as a huge eagle came at him with Its claws extended squawking. Gorak dived back out of the way to the ground barely missing the strike.
" By the Queen Mother!!" Skang ducked. " What was that?"
" The beginning of the end for all of you." Trip smiles as he stood up there and the eagle came down to land at his side. In a flash a young man was suddenly standing at his side. He reached down and took Rese's arm and helped him to his feet.
" Are you alright?" Zarin asked them.
" I'm glad to see you." Trip smiled at him. Zarin examined the two boys for injuries. He saw the collars and wondered what they were. He touched it and felt a spark of magic ran through him.
" Zarin." Trip said. " Get them off us please."
" Grab them!!" Gorak yelled to the others. Startled, the two Orcs ran to grab them when something came flying over the cliff to stand between them. One was a six foot snarling werewolf red eyed and claws bared to fight. The other was the young mage the Orcs had fought at the villa. Craven stood before them with his hands glowing with power.
" Zarin!" Craven called out. " Take them somewhere safe! We'll take care of this!"
Zarin looked from Reno to Craven. He wasn't sure what to do. "Are you sure?"
" Yes!" He said. " Go!!"
Zarin hauled both Trip and Rese to their feet and pulled them into the forest away from the battle. He had to get them safe, then he could come back to help.

" You are the one from the villa." Gorak said getting to his feet. " If you leave now, we won't kill you."
" We're not leaving without our friends." Craven said to them. Skang smiles pointing his sword at them.
" We are four strong Orcs." He said. " You are three boys. What can you do to stop us from taking them from you?"
" You won't believe what we can do." Craven said. " And we're not alone."
From behind them a great form rose from beneath the cliff and stretched his limbs. Zark stood there with his arms folded in front of him.
" So you live, huh dog!" Skang spat in his direction angrily. " And you stand with the humans. Good. We'll feed on your bones. We feast tonight!"
" I see your still trying to be the leader you'll never be Skang." Zark stepped in front of the boys as he spoke. Things had changed with him. He had seen what respect felt like from these young people. He had never felt that from his people and he liked the feeling. Orcs lived only on aggression, hate and fear. The Orc world was dog eat dog and life was a battle everyday just to live, even in family units. Now he had found something different and he would fight to keep it.
" You know you will never be able to go home to Ardia again." Gorak said. " Our people will wipe you from the Orc memory. Even your family will have nothing to do with you."
" I accept that." Zark smiled. " But It won't matter. For you will never make it back to Ardia to tell anyone. Still I won't be going back, ever. So lets stop talking and see who goes home tonight."
" It won't be you!!" Skang charged forward with his sword raised to strike Zark. Moving with Orcs speed, Zark pulled his blade and blocked Skang's downward swipe and spun around hitting Skang in the back of his head with the hilt of his blade as he passed. Skang howled in pain and spun and they began fighting. Their swords flashed in the blazing sun as the fought back and forth. With a quick swing. Skang drew first blood slicing across Zarks chest. As if nothing happened, Zark kicked out into Skang's chest knocking him back. Jumping forward to press the attack Zark forced further into the forest away from the other. There would be no help for either of the combatants. This was a fight to the death by two enemies and nothing would stop them.
Roaring out his rage, Reno leaped at the to Orcs slashing at them. He caught one completely by surprise ripping through the weakened old black armor he wore. Green blood splattered all over Reno as he tore into him. He dropped his weapon and fell as Reno jumped for the other Orc. This time he was prepared and batted him away. Landing on his feet Reno snarled and began to circle his enemy. Facing an armed foe, Reno had to be quick and careful. The Orc thrust in stabbing at the werewolf moving as fast as he could. Orcs were fast, but werewolves were much faster. Reno leaped high over his head while slamming his fist into the Orcs hard skull again and again then coming down behind him and kicking him in the back. Recovering quickly the Orc swung low with his club knocking Reno to the ground. He raised his club to bash Reno to death. But he wasn't fast enough. Before the club hit the ground, Reno was on the move again slashing at him and growling. On Reno fought, slashing and ducking swings of the Orcs club. Reno had calmed his rage. He knew he needed all his wits to keep out of the way of the huge Orc he fought, As he kicked out, the Orc grabbed his leg and throw him over his shoulder. Tumbling through the air he righted himself as he hit the tree legs first and launched himself back at his enemy. Reno's speed was almost like lightning. Before the Orc knew what was happening he was on him. Slashing and pounding on him and tearing through his decrepit armor Reno finally knocked him to the ground. Grabbing the club the Orc had dropped, Reno raised it over his head and smashed down killing him with a single blow. Breathing heavily he stood and let out a blood chilling victory howl. He had just taken two Orcs in battle and was ready for whatever foes still live.
As the fighting began. Zarin pulled Trip and Rese away from the battle. He wanted to take them somewhere safe and out of harm. They found a safe spot where Thalia and Dack flew down and shifted there forms back.
" I'm so glad your alright!" Dack grabbed him and hugged him.
" I'm fine." Trip told his friend hugging him back. " Just get this collar off, please."
" Let me see this." Thalia said stooping to examine the collar. She reached out to touch it and a spark flew off it. Thalia looked up at the others gathered around.
" Can you get it off?" Trip asked. " Reno needs help. He's fighting two Orcs. They'll kill him!"
" I don't have the magic to break this spell." She said. " Zarin?"
" I've never seen anything like it." He shook his head. " Maybe Craven can help."
" Why would he?" Trip asked in anger. " He's the reason I'm in this damned thing."
" It's not his fault, Trip." Zarin explained. " He was under a Larin spell all the time. We would never have found you without him. He caught the Orc and got him to help us."
" So we have are captors to thank for our rescue." Trip frowned as he got up to his feet." Are you sure about that spell?"
" Yea." Dack." Told him. " We're sure."
" Then we better go help him." Trip walked over to a pile of bush and picked up a large branch. He tore off all the remaining foliage the looked at his friends. " You coming?"
Zarin looked over to Thalia as she smiled at them. With the collar on, Trip wouldn't be able to use his magic. He would be better off staying here with his new friend Rese and letting them do the fighting. But he knew that wouldn't work. Trip was Reno's closest friend. There was no way he would stay out of this. Unless Zarin cast a spell on him to force him. And Zarin didn't want to do that.
" Stay close to me or Thalia." He told Trip." Dack, you keep Rese here. We'll be back shortly."

" What makes you think you have a chance against a fully trained mage like myself." Gorak said as he smiled at Craven while gathering his power to him. A dark glow began to surround the Orc.
" I may die fighting you Orc." Craven said. " But my friends will get to safety. That's all I care about."
At that moment a familiar feeling gripped Cravens soul. He wasn't alone anymore. His grand sire had returned to him.
[ I'm here Craven.] Micah said in his mind. [ I'll direct you and show you what to do. Are you ready?]
[ Yes Grandfather.] Warm comforting feeling flowed Between them as Micah directed the magic to get ready for battle.
With a wave of his hand Gorak sent a wall of energy at Craven. Quickly Cravens hand reached out to stop it as the energy battered against him. All around him the trees and brush were flattened down. Craven pushed back and dispelled the energy and swirled what was left into a ball. Flipping his hands forward he sent the ball back at Gorak blasting at him.
" Ha! ha! ha! ha! Gorak laughed. " Is that it? is that the extent of your power? How's this boy!"
From his hands red burst of power shot out at Craven. one after the other Craven batted them all aside to crash over the cliffs and fall into the sea.
" Your much more powerful then I thought." Gorak shouted. " But your just a boy!!"
" I got your boy!!" Bashing his fist together then thrusting them out toward Gorak, magic battered at Gorak, knocking him to the ground and into a tree. As Gorak stared in disbelief he focused his energy on Craven. Bands of magic began to surround Craven and squeeze him. Gorak got to his feet and wiped the green blood from his mouth.
" You think you can defeat me!!!" He screamed. " I am Gorak Ra' Enar Orc Master Mage!!! No boy conquers me!!!"
" Then let this be a lesson to you!!" Craven summoned his power as Micah directed him and forced the bands apart. Further and further he pushed out as Gorak stood there in shock unable to believe what was happening. Soon Craven was floating high off the ground covered in a golden glow. He looked down at Gorak and raised his hand.
" No!" Gorak screamed. " Next time we meet boy you will die at my hands! You and all your friends!!"
With a quick flourish of his hands, Gorak disappeared just before Craven's bolt crashed into the spot where he had been standing. From the forest Zarin and the others had been watching the fight. they all came running out as Craven floated back down to the ground and passed out in a heap. All together they all ran forward to catch him. Thalia pulled him up into her lap as he opened his eyes.
" What happened?" He asked. He looked around as they all gathered close.
" You beat him." Rese said. " I don't understand any of this. Your the one that put us in all this danger. Now you save us. Why?"
" I'm sorry Rese." He said as he sat up weakly. " Your right. I could have gotten you killed. It's all my fault."
" Nonsense." Dack told them. " This is all Tabor and his father. You were under their spell and didn't have much choice. There wasn't much you could do against Tayor Larin and his magic."
Craven looked up into Trips eyes then looked away. He was still ashamed of what he'd done. He had tortured him to get the ring Tabor wanted so bad.
" Trip." He started to talk, then stopped. He was unable to even try and apologize.
" Craven, I understand that you were under a spell." trip held out his hand, " So I'll forgive you. But I'll be a little upset for a while. Just give me time and we'll be OK. After all, you did save us right?"
" Thank you." They shook hands. Craven looked around. Someone was missing. " Wheres Zark?"
They all looked around for the Orc and didn't see him. " He and the other big Orc moved into the forest fighting."
" We have to find him." Craven said as he tried to get up.
" Shhh." Thalia said pulling him back down. " Your in no shape to get up much less be fighting another Orc, Just rest and Reno will find your friend."
Suddenly a strong wind began to batter at them making them shield themselves. The foliage all around blew back. Something was coming. Zarin looked up to see a two large dragons descending on them,
" On no!" Rese yelled. " Dragons!! Run!!"
" Relax!" Trip grabbed him before he he could bolt in the forest." I told you dragons won't hurt you."
Out of the sky dropped two dragons into the clearing ahead of them. One red and the other a deep shade of purple. once on the ground two Rese's amazement the changed to a man and a woman. The man was dressed in red leathers and he companion wore purple. They where both handsome as they walked towards them.
" I'm Blaze and this is Ariel." The red man said with a smile. " We're here to help, but I see the battle is done."
" Thank the gods." Rese sighed. " But what next? Where are we going now"
" We have to get back home to Winterhaven." Zarin told them. " We still have tabor and his father to deal with."
" And the Ring." Trip nodded. " We need to get it before someone finds it."
" First you must return with us to New Keanna." Ariel told the group. " There's someone there that needs you."

Off in the forest the two Orcs battled on. They beat at each other fiercely, neither gaining ground for a time. Breathing heavily, Skang swung high and kicked out at Zark's knee. He missed and fell forward into Zark's fist as he delivered an uppercut to his jaw. Skang fell back trying to regroup but Zark pressed the attack. Zark swung hard connecting with Skang's arm brace again and again until the Orcs arm was becoming numb from the beating. In a bull rush Skang charged forward slamming his head into Zark's chest knocking them both to the ground. Forced to the ground fighting, both Orcs lost the weapons and fought hand to hand. Skang delivered a number of punches at Zark before he was thrown off to the side. As he scrambled and grabbed his weapon, Skang dived back onto Zark's chest. He raised his sword to deliver a death blow screaming out in rage as Zark pulled his dagger and thrust it into his chest stabbing deep into his heart. A shocked look appeared on Skang's face as he fell forward onto Zark and died.
" Goodbye old friend." Zark pushed him off and got to his feet. He looked down at Skang's sword laying where he dropped it then reached for it and picked it up. As respect for a friend he'd killed, Orc customs said Zark was to keep his sword and use it as his own. He placed it in his belt and headed back to find Craven and the others to see if they needed help. As Zark arrived he look around and saw the bodies of the two dead Orcs beaten and slashed on the ground. He looked for Gorak and didn't see him any where. That could be a problem. He walked up to Craven sitting with the others. There were two people dressed in colors he didn't know. But the whereabouts of the Orc mage was more important.
" Gorak?" He asked. " Dead?"
" Unfortunately no." Zarin told him. " He made his escape before he could be dealt with."
" He has no honor." Zark reached down and helped Craven to his feet. They walked off a distance to talk" He ran instead of finishing the fight. What know Shakh?"
" Shakh? Craven asked him. " What does that mean?"
" It means my lord. That's what you are now." Zark said. " From this day on, I will follow you and the others faithfully as your protector."
" But your free now. You can go home to your people." They stopped and looked out over the cliff. It was getting late in the day and the sun was beginning to drop down. The bay looked so beautiful from there.
" You and the others are my people now, if you will have me." He pulled his sword from its scabbard as the others came to join them." My sword it use now Shakh. All of you. Do you accept?"
" This is quite an honor." Blaze told them. " When an Orc gives you his sword, he swears his life to you."
" What if we don't accept?" Reno asked.
" Then his life is over." Blaze said. Zark nodded his agreement and turned the sword on himself and placed the point over his heart.
" We accept." Craven said looking into Zarks eyes. He reached up and took the sword by the hilt and handed it back to the Orc. Zark nodded and took the sword and placed it back in its place at his side.
" So I guess we're off to see the dragons." Zarin smiled. " We should hurry, our families must be worried."
" Professor Insa to." Thalia said. " He must be out of his head."
" You have no idea how right you are." Craven smiled.