Off into the Unknown. 26

" Anyone have any idea where we're going or how to get there?" Reno asked. They had all just left the gates of New Keanna and were heading off away from the city. Zarin and Reno were in the lead with Rese, Thalia and the others right behind them.
" We're off to find your friends in the Academy." Eheren said." And Dack here is how we're going to find it."
" Me?" Dack stopped as they all gathered around him. " How will I help?"
" You've been at the Academy the longest out of all of you, right?" Eheren looked at them all from one to the other. " You will have the best connection to the school. I should be able form someway for Rese here to locate it from that connection. Not to mention this."
He reached up and touched the blue stone at his throat tapping his salvation stone.
" Between all you and the stones." He said. " I think we can find out where it is."
" And I'm to take you there?" Rese asked nervously.
" Jandar thinks you can do it." Eheren smiled. " I have faith in Tempus. Time and distance, he says that's your powers."
" It is." Rese said. " But I don't know how far we can go or if we can take you all."
" Dragons have very few limits." Zarin stepped up to Rese. " I've covered them extensively with Professor Insa. He said I'd need the knowledge one day. I think he knew all this could happen."
" Insa is very wise and very old." Eheren laughed. " Almost as old as I am."
Everyone stared at Eheren in disbelief of what he had just said. Here was the blond boy in his mid teens declaring himself to be as old as the wisest teacher in the academy. That wasn't even possible.
" What do you mean by that?" Thalia smiled. " How old are you? Sixteen?"
" Let's just say I have a very old soul." Eheren smiled at them. " Come. Let's walk while I put together a spell that will do the trick."
" How long will that take?" Trip asked him. Trip had decided he would stay close to Eheren. His magical aura seemed strong. The young mage couldn't understand it but he was drawn to him like a moth to a flame.
" Not long." Eheren said. " I'm a pretty quick spell writer."
Out front Zarin walked alone. He had a lot to think about on this trip. His parents were lost along with the Academy. He wondered were they were and if they were safe. would they be able to find them at all. He had no idea what he would do if anything happened to them.
" For all the years I've know you." Zarin head from behind him. He turned to find Dack at his side. " I can tell when somethings on your mind. What's wrong? Second thoughts"
" No." Zarin said. " I'm just worried about our parents and everyone at the Academy. How do we even know it wasn't destroyed?"
" Because Jandar said he'd feel the deaths of the others." Dack put his hand on Zarin's shoulder to ease his mind. " Zarin we can do this. I know we can. Look behind us at all the help we have. You and Craven are two of the Academy's best students and Trip Thalia and Reno, have you ever met such loyal friends as them?"
" Yea I have." Zarin told him. " You. Your always here at my side no matter what trouble I get us into.
" You do get us in a lot of trouble you know." Dack smiled up at his good friend. " But where else would I be? Who stood up for me all these year? You, My best friend. So let's do what we have to do and get back home. We got pretty girls to save."
Zarin smiled at that thought as he looked down at his handsome friend.
" What are you two up to?" Reno asked as he caught up with them.
" Plotting to overthrow a government." Dack said. " I want to be a King too."
" Oh your poor subjects" Reno laughed. " We're almost to the edge of the forest. Eheren's just about ready with his spell. You ready?"
" As ever." Zarin said. " Let's get this done."

High in the sky over the plains of the eastern region of Redu's lands flew Ozmun in the guise of a simple baebat. A small winged lizard common to the skies of all of Pentathin. Light in color and almost invisible, Ozmun boldly winged his way north. His objective today was to find a certain young girl Kordova had sent him after. This was no ordinary girl. She was one of power. Ozmun had no idea what it was she could do. All Kordova had said was that she would be a good ally and should be protected from being taken by the Savonti of her region. Kordova had told him this was the land of Lord Redu. A particular strange creature rather strong in the mental abilities like Daru. Not much was known about Redu since few had ever escaped his lands. Ono had promised that the salvation stone he wore would keep him hidden from Redu, but there was always the chance the the girl might bring his attention to herself if she used whatever abilities she had. All he could do was hope she was smart enough to keep herself hidden. Lilia had given Ozmun a general position as to where he could find her, but she was a little out of her range so she couldn't get a clear vision of her location. He would have to take his chances trying to find her.
Redul was a very barren land. there wasn't much by way of forest here. Just a great grassy plain with mountains and valleys. A few lakes and rivers ran through the land and as you can find all over Pentathin, many caves. Some of these cave housed the cities of Redu's Savonti, while others were hiding places for the people of the plains here. Lilia had told him she would be found in one of these caves. Savonti cave could always be identified by the smoke and heat rising from vents at the top.
Ozmun passed them trying to avoid contact with and other baebats in the sky's. Once he had found the Savonti caves, Kordova had said turn east. Then he moved lower for any sign of human habitation. He might have to go from cave to cave in his search for who he was looking for. She described her as a teen with dark hair alone. She had told him the girls family had been captured so she would have a lot of anger in her. Ozmun had no idea what that meant. How was he to tell anything about any of these people? They were strangers to him and though her past was tragic, every human family on Pentathin had the same thing happen to them. Brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, aunts and uncles. They were all victims of the Savonti and there disgusting appetite for humans.
From the air his keen baebat sense of smell detected something. It was definitely human he thought. Savonti all had a certain smell, Ozmun knew that. He had smelled them before while he had been in many different forms. They all had a special metallic smell to them. No other creature on Pentathin had quite that smell. He had trained himself to recognize it in his sleep to keep himself alive. He looked down and saw a number of cave openings in the hills with very little heat rising from the them. The smells were coming from there. This was as good a place as any to start his search.
Tipping his wings he dropped down to land in the grass on top of a set of openings. Ozmun crawled over the lip of the cave and made his way in across the roof of the cave. He stopped for a second and listened while his eyes adjusted to the absence of light in the cave. Listening carefully he heard voices coming from the back. Human voices he could tell. Savonti all had that deep arrogant tone to there voices. Again something he had trained himself to recognize easily.
" I don't like this." A voice said. " I can't believe you trust them."
" This will solve our problems." And older voice answered, " We'll be safe from the hunt."
" But for how long?" The younger voice said. " And you know what happens if anyone finds out what you've done"
" What I've done? You mean what we've done." The older man was becoming more excited. " Your in this as deep as I am, don't forget that Oda. I'm doing this for both of us."
" Paesh." A pleading voice called out. " We should forget this and join the others and run. No one will know what we did if we just go now."
" Don't be a fool, Oda." Paesh laughed. " We can make ourselves kings around here. Just do as I say and we'll have everything and any woman we want. Magda will finally be mine!"
Oda couldn't believe what he was hearing. He had known Paesh wanted Magda. That youthful curved body, her blood red hair and fiery temper. What man in their clan didn't want to have her as his own. But this  crazy.
" Are you that obsessed with Magda?" He asked. " So obsessed you would go this far to have her?"
Paesh turned and stared at Oda angrily. He strode up to him, grabbed the front of his tunic and smacked his face and threw him down.
" She will be mine body and soul!" He spat at him. " Nothing and no one will stop me from having her!"ad know
" And if she refuses?" Oda wiped the blood from his mouth sitting up. " What then?"
" She won't have a choice." He laughed. " It will be me, or them."
" And her magic?" Oda asked. " What about that?"
" I've been told there are ways to control her magic." Paesh smiled walking to the cave entrance where Ozmun clung to the ceiling listening. " Now get up. We have work to do. Come on."
Ozmun couldn't believe what he had just heard. There could be no mistaking what Paesh had planned. He planned to turn his whole clan over to the Savonti in order to rule over them. As if those damn lizards weren't bad enough, men turning there own over to them for there own greed. Ozmun dropped to the ground and shifted back to his own form. He had to find this Magda. He had a feeling she just might be the one he was looking for.
" You wish to be a king, huh?" Ozmun pulled his hood over his head and started out of the cave. " We'll see what we can do about that."

As the first of the two suns rose into the sky, Cutter stood out in the courtyard with Azeal, Tanis, Kalin and Texa and watch them rise. The crimson and black foliage of the forest was absolutely amazing Tanis thought as he watch the second sun rise.
" Two suns!" Azeal pointed up at them. " Where the hell are we?"
" Yes." Cutter nodded his head. " And how are we going to get home?"
" Magic." Tanis said. " Same way we got here. We just have to figure out what we're doing here."
" Agreed." Cutter said. He turned to Kalin. " Kalin we're going to need a spell that will cloak the school to keep the unwanted out."
" But shouldn't we go out and meet the people here?" Kalin asked. " We need information and that's the only way we're going to get any."
" Your right." Blink said as he walked out to meet them. " But we have to be careful who knows we're here. I don't want those Savonti coming here."
Everyone nodded their agreement. Blink stepped over to Cutter as they all watched the skies.
" Our guest is awake." Blink said. " I think it's time for some answers."
" Good." Cutter said. " Keep everyone inside. Kalin, I'll cloak the school until your spells ready. Azeal, Tanis come with us. I think this boy might feel more comfortable with someone his age in the room. I'm sure he's scared to death right now."
Cutter turned and headed back into the school with Blink, Azeal and Tanis following. As they reached the entrance three student stepped out looking around. Behind them came two of Capt Lowell's men. The look in there eyes told the whole story. Shock and amazement, and a little fear. A boy stepped up to Cutter.
" Master, where are we?"
" Far from home young one." He patted the boys head. " But we're safe for now."
" Can we look around?" The girl asked."
" As long as you stay in the courtyard and only a few at a time it will be alright." Cutter turned to the guard. " No more then five at a time. Have Lowell post guards out here and around all the exits into the forest. Keep everyone in. Understand?"
" Yes sir!" He saluted them.
" Have Capt Lowell join us in the infirmary." Blink called as they went in.
The three walked through the Academy heading for the infirmary wing. All round them kids crowded around shouting questions at them looking for answers. More and more came running into the hall until the noise became deafening.
" QUIET!!!" Blink shouted holding up his hand sending a flash of darkness through the room shocking the kids into silence. Cutter stepped forward.
" There's no need for any of you to fear." Cutter smiled. " We're safe here right now and we'll get you all back home as soon as possible. Meanwhile you should all know your classes will go on, but I want to make something clear to you all. This is an unknown land and we don't know what's outside the gates here. Like I said, we're safe inside the grounds, but for no reason do we want any of you going beyond our walls. Do I make myself clear?"
" YES SIR!!" They answered.
" Very well." Cutter smiled flashing his handsome grin. " Your professors will fill you in on information as we get it. Get on to class now!"
The crowd began to breakup and the kids started to scatter. One boy watch from the corner with a scowl. A dark grin spread across his face, he turned and followed the others out of the hall.
" You know that won't keep them in." Tanis said to Cutter. " We're going to have to find a way to either bar the exits, or keep them occupied or some will go over the wall to explore the forest."
Cutter stopped and looked at Tanis and Azeal. The lad had a point. You tell any kid what they can't do and you can bet that's what they will do.
" They we'll have to double up on classes." Blink said.
" No." Azeal nodded. " That will just bore them. And if they're bored, they'll be trouble."
" What do you suggest?" The four turned the corner and walked toward the infirmary door.
" What would I do?" Tanis looked at Azeal who shrugged at him. He thought for a moment on the question. " I guess we should be honest with them. Tell them the dangers of going out and getting caught by the Savonti."
" Or maybe let them talk to our friend in there." Azeal added." If anyone can convince them, he might be the one."
" Let's hear his story first." Cutter reached for the door and pulled it open. " Then I'll decide."
As they walked into the infirmary they saw a few beds filled with Capt Lowell's wounded men and those the were hurt escaping Winterhaven. Most of them were sitting up in much better shape from Macan's treatment. He and Capt Lowell's wife Lisette had been working hard healing those they could. Unfortunately, not everyone could be healed. Lisette sat at a bed as they walked over. Azeal looked closer and noticed it was one of the guards they had carried in when they arrived. He was dead. He had been far to hurt when they arrived and all they could do for him was to keep him painless until he passed away.
" Are you alright?" Tanis asked. He looked down as she closed the dead guards eyes. " Did you know him well?"
" No." She sobbed. " But he was a very brave boy. He fought off three soliders as they tried to rape two girls before we found him. They live untouched because of him. I don't even know his name."
" It was Tagger." Cutter told her sitting down next to her. " I was in his mind to hide his pain. He hadn't been a guard long. Only a month."
" Yes." Lowell said reaching for his wife's hand. She stood and then hugged him as she sobbed into his shoulder. " Only a month, but I knew after a week he was bound to do something great. And he did. I promise, we'll find a way to honor his memory."
As they sat and prayed over Tagger, Macan came over.
" The boys awake. " He said. " And he's very frightened. I'd advise you to be careful with him. He's been through a great deal of pain in his life. Please don't scare him anymore."
" Don't worry." Cutter stood and thank the healer. " We'll be careful."
Cutter looked at Azeal. Azeal and Tanis seem to have a pretty good handle on the kids here. Maybe they might have a better chance talking to the boy. They might put him more at ease.
" Azeal, Tanis." Cutter waved them over to him and Blink. The two vampires looked at him a bit confused and walked over.
" I have an idea." Cutter said. " Why don't you two go in and talk to him."
" Us?" Tanis asked looking at Azeal completely bewildered. Blink looked at Cutter and started to say something.
[ I know what I'm doing here Brother. Trust me.]
[ You lead here.] He sent. [ Your decision.]
" We don't all need to go in there throwing questions at the scared boy." Cutter said. " You and Tanis are more his age. I think he'll respond better to you then to us. Learn all you can about this place. His people and the Savonti. Gain his trust. We can meet him later after he's had time to rest."
" We'll try." Azeal reached for the door and opened it. He and Tanis went in to find him at the window trying to open it to get out.
" You leaving us?" Azeal called to him. The boy jump at the sound of there voices.
" Who are you?" He said. " Where am I? I don't know this place. Where is my family?"
" Calm down friend." Azeal smiled. " We're friends. Your safe here with us. No one can harm you here. Have a seat so we can talk."
The boy looked at them unsure what to do. He was dark haired, tall and slim with brown eyes. He was dressed in simply cloth robes from the infirmary.
" How did I get here? He asked looking around. " I was in one of the Savonti pens then something pulled be into darkness and I woke up here dressed like this."
" We brought you here." Tanis said. He pulled a chair over and sat by the bed. "Please sit and talk. My name is Tanis and this is Azeal. We're strangers here."
" Strangers?" He came over and sat on the bed. " What is strangers? I don't know this word?"
" It means we are new here." Azeal told him. " What is this place called?"
" This.. place?" He looked at them oddly. He didn't understand what they meant at all.
" We are from a world not at all like this one." Azeal explained. " Our worlds is called Keanna. What do you call your world?"
" What is world?" He asked confused. "I don't understand what you mean?"
Azeal looked at Tanis then the boy. This was getting them no where. They would need help. He would have to call in Cutter.
" I know someone that can help us talk." Azeal said. " Can I call my friend in to help us?"
The boy nodded his head in agreement. Azeal stepped to the door and called Cutter. The tall white haired elf came in smiling and shut the door.
" We're having trouble understanding each other." Azeal said. " Maybe you can show him where we're from and give him a better understanding of our problem."
" Certainly I can try." Cutter got up and moved over to sit on the bed. The boy jumped up and moved to the window afraid of him. Feeling his fear, Cutter reached out with his mind and calmed the boy. With a thought he soothed his fear of them.
" Your safe with us." Cutter told him. " Come sit down."
He turned away from the window and came back to sit next to Cutter smiling.
" How can I help you?" He asked.
" I'm going to take you hand and show you where we come from." Cutter said reaching out to him. " Then you will see what our home is like."
" How can you do this?"
" Magic." Tanis smiled.
" Ah!, We have magic here." He told them comfortably as he took Cutter's hand. " Mostly the Savonti, But we have it to. Show me."
Cutter closed his eyes and sent scenes of Keanna into the boys mind. He showed him New Keanna and all the people living peacefully together. He sent pictures of Vasagi, with Azeal and Valkar at home rebuilding the city after the war. He sent scenes of the forest around Eventide the the grove of magic trees his family cared for. Then he sent him scenes showing all the different types of people on Keanna. Good and bad. The Dragons and elves, dwarves, werewolves, orcs and men. He showed the boy everything he could, even Winterhaven before and after its take over. When he was done he let go of his hand and sat back against the headboard and waited to see what he would say.
" Your home is so different them mine." He said awed by what had just happened and what he saw of Keanna. " One sun and what strange trees you have. Is the color magic?"
" No." Tanis laughed. " On our world all trees and plants are green. It's not magical at all. Though we do have magical trees."
" And those huge flying beast. There like great trackers with wings, only bigger." He smiled. " Amazing. There's nothing like them on Pentathin anymore."
" Pentathin?" Azeal asked. " Is that what this world is called?"
The boy nodded.
" And what's your name?" Cutter asked him.
" My name is Gabor." He said. " Gabor Gekko. I am of a Forest clan not far from here. Tell me something. Are there any Savonti on your world?"
Tanis opened his mouth to answer, then realized he really didn't know what to say or how to explain. As far as he knew there were no lizard people on Keanna. But then what would you call the dragons? They were lizard like and people, just not reptilian in there human guise. And who knows, there could be reptilians on Keanna. There were werewolves and vampires, so why not? Maybe they just were in a place unknown to them.
" Gabor," Cutter said. " On our world things are different. There are no Savonti, but there were races that once treated humans as food in our history."
" Like mine." Azeal said sadly. " My people were vicious once feeding on others and bringing horror to others. But we fought to free ourselves from that curse centuries ago. Now were almost accepted by everyone. It takes time to gain trust when you were once called monsters."
" Can you tell us how you got in that cage we found you in? Tanis asked Gabor.
Gabor sat back on the bed and reached for a glass of water and took a drink.
" I will tell you what you want." He said. " But then you have to help me free my family, I mean my clan. They will kill them if we don't hurry."
" We're listening." Cutter said.

Eheren gathered them all together in the clearing and told them to stand in a circle. He had Rese shift and stand in the middle.
" I'm going to direct the magic at you Tempus." He explained. " You can collect the magic and take us to where it leads."
[ But I have no idea where to go.] Tempus sent.
" You will. Just find the connection." Eheren told him. " It's there. You will feel it. Just try."
[ I'll do as you ask.]
" This could go so wrong." Reno whispered to Thalia.
" Shh!! Have faith." She told him. " He's a dragon. He can do it."
" I hope so." Dack said.

TIME AND DISTANCE.
HERE AND NOW.
WITH NO RESISTANCE.
JUST SHOW US HOW.
TAKE US FROM HERE.
TO FIND OUR FRIENDS.
WITHOUT ANY FEAR.
TO WHERE THE ROAD ENDS.

Lightning flashed and the sky darkened as Tempus roared and began to glow. He stood on his hind legs and spread his wings as the power of the spell flowed into him.
[ I see it!!] He sent howling.
"Can you take us there?" Zarin asked.
[ Hold each others hand.] Tempus sent. [Close your eyes and don't let go. I don't want to lose anyone.]
With a roar Tempus let loose of the magic. Suddenly everyone felt weightless as their journey began. Like they were flying with the wind battering at them. Each one of them held tighter to the hand they were holding as the sound of Tempus roar became deafening.
" HOLD ON!!" Zarin yelled gripping Reno and Dack. He could feel them spinning in the air. He wished with all his might for this to be over.
[ We're almost there Zarin.] He heard. [ Don't worry. I have you all.]
Zarin opened his eyes to peek out and was amazed at what he saw. Colors swirled by his eyes. Bright greens and reds, yellows and purple flashed by. Zarin's fear began to fade as everything became shades of crimson and he closed his eyes again. Then in a sudden jolt, everything stopped and Zarin felt ground beneath his feet.
With his eyes still closed, Zarin listened and heard the sounds of birds and life. He felt wind on his face and drops of something wet hit his cheeks. He opened his eyes to see the strangest thing. They were somewhere in a deep forest with crimson trees all around them. He looked up through the tree tops to see light coming through from two different places in the sky.
[ We're here.] Tempus sent. [ You can all open your eyes now.]

Reigning Fear. 25.

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

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

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

Dark Faere Rising. 24

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We all Fall Down. 23

From his throne Lord Larin sat and listened to the messages he received from his spelled agents on there message stones. The werewolf town of Remus was now under his control. Raf Thorn had done as he was ordered. Raf was sure she would run straight to the Wolves Lair. That just might be The only problem had been the escape of his sister. She had gotten away and good. There just might be a way for them to take the Lair too. He had heard from Talsara and all was in order so far in Eventide, Elan just had to catch Emrel and bring her back. Then he could force her into marriage and Eventide would be there's. Tomaz Arcos had reported in. Valkar Zlenka was on his way to Prafa. Valkar would be a much better subject then Baron Gaelich, so Lord Larin had commanded Tomaz to present his gift to him instead. Things there were looking very promising. Having the King of the vampires under his thumb would give him territories far beyond the Elven Queens. Soon he may even be able to place Talsara under his power.
Tayor Larin smiled to himself thinking of what he could do next. He had Sarella off searching for the elves and sent her to ensure the faerie agent did as she was told. There was something about that faerie and the leprechaun he didn't trust. He had lost contact with the leprechaun, but the faerie had given the ring to her queen and the faere lands were now falling into his hands as the magic spread out from the queen. Soon they would all be ready for him to assume control. Left were the dwarves, orcs, and a few other races he had his eye on. But the most important enemy he had to control was the dragons. They would be the ones that could cause him the most trouble. But he had made plans for the dragons, and they would soon be put into action eliminating the them and their most powerful allies leaving Lord Larin free reign over all of Keanna.

The days of the shining towers and peaceful trade were over in Winterhaven. Gone were all the festivals being celebrated in the city parks, and students practicing their crafts on the Academy lawn. Now hardly anyone roamed the cobbled streets visiting friends or the over crowded market. In fact Lord Larin now controlled all of the commerce in his city. No one made any coin if he didn't, and that was just the way he wanted it.
Rain fell on the city as an old man hobbled his way down a lane. In one hand he held a staff he used to walk. The other he held out to passers by for any coin they could spare. The man was dirty and smelled, so few came hear him. Even Lord Larins men kept there distance, afraid of any diseases he might carry.
There wasn't very much on the street he walked. A few side shops making pots and a closed advocate's office that had been closed since Lord Larins men had run him from town. but the shop the old man was heading for was the oldest shop on the street. An apothecary shop established over two hundred years ago. It had been run by a family of magi. No one powerful but someone very special to the old man.
He reached for the door and opened it as a bell rang announcing his presence. Herbs and plants covered shelves of the shop. All the aromas of different spices and other exotic plants filled the air as he moved into the shop. A very beautiful older woman dressed in dark robes with bronze red hair walked out of the back room. She looked at the old beggar and frowned.
" Why are you here?" She asked.
" Pardon Lady ." He said bowing. " But it is cold and wet out there and the smells of your shop were so soothing."
She looked at him annoyed and put her hands on her hips. " You think I wouldn't know when Pelic Katerro is in my shop?"
" It had been a while since I was last here." He said. He dropped his disguise spell and stood straight before her. " I have changed a lot in the last few years dear Ashura."
" I see." She said stepping closer to examine him. " You are much more powerful. And I don't feel the darkness in you anymore, just shadow."
" You can thank Polan Dressek for the shadows." He concentrated and made his face appear from under the cloaks hood. " And the dragons for giving me light to bare these shadows."
" I feel peace in you to Pelic." Ashura smiled. " Is this the same Pelic I knew from the Dark circle?"
" As I said. Much has changed." He smiled taking her hand and walk her to the back room where they found a couch to rest on. "But I'm not here for a visit."
" Then why are you here? she asked.
" Tayor Larin."
" Our new lord and king." Ashura nodded. " He's a very dangerous man."
" Ashura, he was always dangerous." Pelic looked at her. " But has he found the ring?"
" I honestly don't know. " She said. " He has become more powerful then ever. But if he had the ring, I think I would feel it. The Ring of Endrin possess and emanates such power when used that even he couldn't hide it. No, he doesn't have it."
" I know he's been searching for the ring for years." Pelic said. " I've heard from Insa that it was found by some of his students and it's somewhere here in Winterhaven. It has to be found before Tayor finds it."
" I agree." Ashura nodded. " If he finds it, Winterhaven and all of Keanna is in trouble. What do you plan to do?"
" Good question." Pelic put his hand to his chin and thought on his dilemma. " What freedoms do you have in the city? Where can you go?"
" Tayor has the city locked down." Ashura told him. " No one's above suspicion. Because of my cures, I can get to my gardens and out into the forest. But I'm searched coming back in. There are places in the city I'm allowed. I am the major healer now that Macan and the Academy is gone, but Tayor's people escort me almost everywhere."
" At least he's allowing the people the use of a healer." Pelic smiled.
" Yes but at what price?" Ashura stood to face him. " Nothing here is free. Either you pay or?"
" Or what?" He asked. But one look at her face gave him the answer.
" You know Tayor Larins mercy as well as I do. He has no use for those that can't be of any use to him. Pelic you know this city has its dark side and forces. You were once part of it." She said. " I don't like it, but I know we need it to survive. It makes Winterhaven that much stronger. But he will kill this city and everyone in it if he is allowed to stay king here. He has to be stopped."
Pelic stood his cloak of shadow draped around his shoulders. He knew she was right and that Rage and Jandar wanted to help the people of Winterhaven.
" Ashura, We'll find a way." He put his hand on her shoulder. " With your help and the people of Winterhaven, we'll stop him."
" How?" She asked him. " He has eyes and ears everywhere. What do you plan to do?"
" I'll be as dark as I use to be if that's what it takes." Pelic conjured his disguise back in place and put his hood back on. " I need you to make sure he doesn't have the ring. And if its here, find it. I'll look in the places you can't. And I need to know what Tayor plans."
" I think I know what you want." She said her face going pale. " Your asking me to try seducing him. That's crazy. I could get killed."
" You have a better idea?" He said. " I'm listening."
" So that's why you came back to Winterhaven." Ashura's tone had become angry. " To use me. You haven't changed at all. That shadows really deep in your heart how."
" Ashura." He looked deep in here eyes. " Who else can do this? You think for a second he'd trust me or even if I sent in another woman. You think he would let her get near him? Never! But you've known him for years and better yet. He's been trying to get your attention for just as long. I remember the way he always looked at you. only you can do this."
" He'll never fall for this." She turned away from him. She knew what he was saying was true. Tayor had gone out of his way for years to pursue her. But she had always rebuffed him and his advances. He always repulsed her with his airs and superior demeanor. How could she ever allow him to touch her.
" I ask a lot of you." Pelic put his hand on her shoulder and turned her back to face him. " I know that, but Winterhaven needs your help to survive. The Dragons and I will do all we can, but we can't do it all. There are things even we can't do. Fortunately we have you to help. Now you just said he would kill your city. Help us to save it, please."
Ashura began to cry, sobbing as Pelic pulled her into his arms and held her. They both know what Tayor would do if he became wise to what she was doing. But it had to be done.
" I'll do it." She said wiping her face and pushing away from him. " Damn you and him. I'll do it for Winterhaven."
" Good." Pelic turned and walked out of the room with Ashura following him. He walked to the door and hunched himself over. He was the beggar again. " I'll return to see you in the nights coming so we can't trade information. Good luck to you."
" Fuck you." She said as he walked out the door.

Gray clouds filled the skies as three strangers made their way to the gates of New Keanna. They were covered in mud and bone tired from their journey limping and helping each other up the road. From the top of the wall two New Keannian guards gazed down to see them stumbling towards the gate. They rushed down to find them all lying in the mud less the ten feet outside the gate.
" Call for Blaze!" A guard called up to his mates on the wall. As he pulled one man up into a sitting position more guards came out to help bring them in. Each man took the arm of one of the stranger and helped him to his feet.
" Help Rina." One man called as he was lifted. The guards pulled back the hood of the last one laying there and realized it was a woman with light brown hair. He lifted her up and carried her in. All three were taken into the guardhouse to be examined by a healer. They were all laid in beds to rest and wait until one of the dragons could come down to see them.
A few minutes later Blaze ran in and watched as they were being examined for injuries. He waited out of the way while the healer Castor looked them over. Once done, Castor stepped over to Blaze.
" How are they?" He asked.
" Mostly exhaustion." Castor said as he washed his hands. " The woman has a gash on her head. She must have suffered a blow recently."
" Will she be alright?" Blaze asked. He stepped closer to look at the three in the beds.
" Yes." he nodded. " I give them all something to make them rest. They should be up in a few hours just fine."
" Does anyone know who they are?" Blaze asked all the men that help them in. " Did they say anything?"
" The big man called the woman Rina." A guard said. " But they didn't say anything else."
" Blaze." Another called him over. He was standing there with the packs and cloaks. Blaze walked over to see what he wanted. He held up one of the cloaks. It had the tower blazed with the w on the chest. " They wear the symbols of Winterhaven. Could they have escaped from there?"
" Could be." Blaze took the cloak. " I want someone with them in this room at all times. Soon as they wake send someone to the manor for me. Be careful. They may be Warlocks."
" Yes sir." The guard saluted him.
Blaze walked out of the guardhouse and headed back to the manor. These three might hold some answer to what was happening in the magic city. Jandar would want to know right away.
[ Jandar, Rage.] He sent out. [ We have guest.]
[ Who is it?] Rage asked.
[ I think they're from Winterhaven.] Blaze said. [ They wear the sign of the council.]
[ Council members?] Blaze could feel Jandar's anxiety. [ At last maybe we can get some answers. Bring them to the manor.]
[ They're under Castors care right now.]
[ Are they hurt bad?]
[ No.] Blaze sent entering the manor. [ I'll be in your study in just a minute to explain.]
Blaze climbed the stairs up until he reached the top level and found their apartment. He knocked and Rage opened the door.
" They wore these." He handed the cloak to Rage. Rage looked it over then passed it to his mate.
" Yes." Jandar nodded. "Only council members wear this symbol. Do you know who they are?"
" Just that there's a woman named Rina." Blaze came in and sat down in front of Jandar and Rages twin desks.
" Rina Somerall?" Jandar asked. " We met her while we were writing out the treaty that we made with Winterhaven. This could be some luck at last. I'm sure she's come to ask for our help."
" We should move them here to recover then." Rage went to summon someone to have them moved to more comfortable rooms at the manor.
" Let them rest." Blaze said. " They need sleep. There's nothing we can do right now anyway."
" My question is how did they get here?" Blaze asked. " They had to climb the cliffs and they don't look like they were in any shape to do that."
" Magic?" Rage asked.
" Rage, I doubt they could conjure and apple in the shape they're in"
" I guess we'll soon find out." Jandar said handing the cloak back to Blaze. As he did something fell out of the inner folds and rolled across the floor and under the couch Blaze was sitting on. Blaze got down on all fours and looked under the couch.
" What's this?" He reached under the couch for the object and felt a sting in his hand. " Owwwwww!!"
 As he pulled back his hand there was a knock at the door.
" Come in." Rage called.
The door opened and Seven and Toric came in looking grim. They walked over to the desk where Jandar sat with Rage standing behind him.
" Why do I get the feeling somethings wrong." Rage asked looking annoyed.
" Let them talk Love, and we'll find out what's going on." Jandar patted Rage's hand. He turned to the Seven and Toric. " Is everything alright?"
" No." Seven said. " I don't think it is. What do you know about my younger brother and sister?"
" Just that Cutter asked me to send Braddoc out to help find them." Jandar told her. " We've been so busy lately with Winterhaven it slipped my mind."
" We think it's all connected." She said. " At least that's what Cutter thought the last time he talked to Morganz and I agree."
" Exactly what's going on?" Rage asked. He sat down next to Jandar at the desk curious to hear what they said.
" We're not sure." Toric told them. " But no one's been able to reach anyone in Eventide. We can't reach Adanar and Emrel either. Somethings not right."
" And somehow you think Tayor Larin is behind all this?" Rage said. " Is that right?"
Toric and Seven looked at each other feeling doubt for a moment. A while ago it all seemed so clear, but now they weren't sure.
" Relax." Rage held up his hand walking out from behind the desk. " I trust your intuition, especially when it comes to the elven people. Now, you say no one in Eventide can be reached?"
" That's right." Seven nodded.
" I know your mother is very powerful and so is your uncle Arandryl ." Jandar said. " It would take some very strong magic to block them."
" I'm guessing you want to go to Eventide to investigate?" Rage sat on the edge of the desk taking all they had said in. He turned to Jandar. " What do you think?"
" I think the Eventide's have suffer enough in the last few years." Jandar looked up to Seven. " If they need help, I think we should do what we can."
" Blaze?" Rage turned to the younger red dragon for his advice.
" I agree."
" It's settled then." Rage told them. " Take whoever you need and keep us informed of what's going on."
Seven and Toric smiled and thanked them for there help and promised to stay in communications with them then turned to leave.
" We're going to take Denner with us." Toric told them. " I think his changeling abilities may be of use. We'll be leaving right away."
" Fine, good luck." Jandar called as the opened the door. " Be careful. We want all of you back here safe."
Seven smiled and they were off.
" Now." Jandar turned to Blaze. " What was it that fell from the cloak?"

Darkness ruled the night as Tomaz Acros made his way through Prafa. He had an audience this night in the main house with Valkar Zlenka, king of all the vampires and he wouldn't keep the king waiting. Tomaz smiled as he reached the gate and told them he was expected. The guard nodded and stepped into his little hut at the gate to confirm the order. He picked up the list he had been give and found Tomaz's name.
" You may pass." He said. " Someone will escort you in once you reach the manor. Welcome home sir.
" Thank you." Tomaz nodded.
Prafa manor was still a walk away. It had been built a mile outside of Prafa in the rear of the city but still inside the walls. Because of the protection spells Valkar had Jandar cast on the estate for safety, one couldn't just fly in. With the exception of certain staff, Zlenka and Gaelich family, you had to stop at the gate to be checked in then you could make your way to the manor however you pleased, by coach, by foot or by wing. Tomaz spread his arms and shifted to his hawk form and flew on in. From the air he could see the road and house all lit and many people gathered around attending to whatever business had brought them to Prafa manor on this night. He flew down after his short fight and landed in the courtyard and shifted back. Tomaz was dressed in his finest tonight. A dark cloak over his black evening jacket and white shirt and dark pants. He adjusted his clothing and made sure he still had the package he meant to present to Valkar and headed up into the house.
Many were waiting at the door to be announced on this special night and gain entrance. Tonight there were two honored guest. The king of course and Tomas the returning hostage being honored on his safe return.
As Tomaz walked up the stairs to get in line the crowd all turned and saw him. Cheers went up and the crowd began to applaud him as they parted to allow the honored one to move to the front of the line. Tomaz waved and smiled as people bowed to him. He climbed up the stairs to the desk where one of  the Barons Staff waited to greeted him.
" Ah Tomaz Acros!" The well dressed butler Aker stood up bowing. " His majesty has been waiting your arrival. We bid you a welcome home and a welcome to Prafa Manor."
" Thank you." He nodded back. " I am to see King Valkar tonight."
" Indeed you are." Aker sat back down and waved a footman over and whispered in his ear. " He will take you to see King Valkar and Baron Gaelich privately. I hope your evening is most pleasant."
" Thank you again." Tomaz turned and followed the footman into the manor. The crowd moved back in line as he left. A guard stepped up to the butler and watched Tomaz head into the manor.
" What a lucky one he was to escape." He said.
" Indeed." Aker said. " I hear he was marked for death just for being there."
" Did you notice how red his eyes were?" The guard asked frowning. " If it wasn't for the wards on the manor, I might have thought him a nightwalker."
" Fatigue I'm sure." The butler shrugged handing the invitation back to the guest he was serving and waved him on. " After all, he's been through a great ordeal. It has to have had some effect on him. Besides, no nightwalker could get pass the gates alive. Next!"

Dressed in her finest blue gown, Athene admired herself in the mirror. Her hair was done in a tight bun and she wore at her neck the necklace Jandar had given her with the blue Salvation stone. She wished Pelic could be there to see and escort her tonight, but he was off on some mission for the dragon. Adam would do, she did so enjoy working with him. In fact he was downstairs waiting for her. She had better hurry.
She grabbed her shawl and turned to leave when she noticed something in the mirror. It had suddenly grown hazy. She couldn't even see her reflection anymore. Suddenly her magic senses began to go wild. Something was wrong. The mirror was not spelled or infused with any kind of magic. So why was it like this? Then she heard a voice in her head. It wasn't loud but it was strong. It whispered DANGER. Something was about to happen. Someone was trying to warn her.
" ADAM!" She yelled. " Get up here fast!"
The pounding of his footsteps on the stairs hurrying up to see what threatened her echoed through the house. He rushed into the room as she stood staring at the mirror.
" What's wrong?" he shouted as he entered ready to fight.
" Look!" Athene pointed at the mirror. Adam looked into the mirror. As it began to clear an elven woman's face began to appear. She was a dark elf, an elder woman.
[ My name is Hasmira, and I bring a warning to you. There is no time to talk or to waste. Get out of Prafa now if you want to save your people from certain doom. There is no time to warn anyone else. Please, leave now. Shift and get away from the city. Go now or all hope is lost. GO NOW!!]
" What do we do?" Adam asked her. " This could be just to get us out of the way so someone could attack."
" I don't think so." Athene said. " I think we should do as she says and go."
" But I can't fly!" He shouted.
" Adam your a vampire. You flew before Balthazar changed you, you can still do it. Concentrate and change!!"
She ran to the window and threw it open then looked back at Adam. He had his eyes closed in deep concentration.
" Remember how it felt when you first learned to change forms?" She said calmly reassuring him. " Now change!"
In a flash of magic Adam changed. He took on his scorpion like form only smaller and with wings. He began to beat them and lifted from the floor and flew.
[ I DID IT!]
" Hurry!" She said " Out the window. I'll follow you!"
Adam zipped out the window as Athene spread her arms and took her raven form and flew after him.
[ Quickly, follow me.]
Together they flew off and out of Prafa into the nearby hills not sure exactly what was about to happen in Prafa, but Athene had a feeling deep inside it had something to do with Tomaz Acros. Whatever happened, she swore they would get to the bottom of it.

After leaving Jandar and Rage, Toric headed to his mothers apartment to tell her he would be away. He knew she would worry but she knew he was a capable mage and a smart man so she trusted them to come home safely. Next the called out to Denner and told him all about the mission. He agreed to go and to meet them in the courtyard. Denner kissed Nautica good bye, grabbed his sword and left to meet Seven and Toric.
" So off to Eventide, huh?" He asked. He buckled his sword into place and was ready to go.
" No." Seven said. " First we find Adanar ans Emrel. Once they're safe, we take them home and see what is going on there."
" What of Winterhaven?" Denner asked. " They're in real trouble there. We could help there."
" We have people there." Toric assured Denner. " If we're needed, they'll call I'm sure. Right now we concentrate on the Eventide's. The answer to both problems could be there. But we'll see."
" Fair enough." Denner followed Seven and Toric out into the center of the courtyard. " How do we find them?"
" We find my cousin Morganz." Seven spread out her arms and shifted to Ariel. She roared then knelt down so Toric could climb on her back. [ Morganz is with Braddoc. He's a excellent tracker and I've no doubt he'll be able to find them."
" What are we waiting for?" Denner concentrated and changed his form to that of a Pegasus. He reared up neighing then kicked out to launch himself into the sky. [Let's move!]
Ariel spread her wings and created winds to carry them up and off on their way. What ever troubles they found, they were sure they would be able to handle.

Deep down in the rookery amongst all the dragon eggs and heat and gold, lay a sleeping dragon. Insa the smoke dragon, ex leader of the Winterhaven council. Around him stood four others of the Keanna Clan. In their human forms Syren, Sarah, Dreik and Gird stood watching over the sleeping dragon. It had been a few day since anyone had been able to talk with Insa's consciousness, so they were all worried about him. They were afraid if he didn't wake soon, he never would. Jandar, Pelic, and Toric had done all the could to wake him with no success. Kalin hadn't had a chance to try before he had left for Winterhaven. He thought he would return quickly and be able to try a few spells, but that wasn't to happen. Jandar and Cutter were able to work through most of the dream weaving but the last strand seemed beyond them, so here Insa lay. Probably aware of everything around, but unable to even open his eyes.
" He looks so calm in his sleep." Sarah said. " So restful."
" I doubt it." Syren stepped over and sat down beside her clan mates. " I've been under this sort of spell before. You dream all these wild things. Nightmares. We are so use to being in control of our minds and dreams it's frightening to lose such control."
" Yes, I remember those nightmares." Gird nodded. " It was very hard for me too. Every night soothing all your minds, being your link to reality."
" But you did it." She smiled up at Gird. " It gave us all such comfort feeling you there. You were our light in the darkness. Thank you Gird so much."
" No need for thanks." he said. " I was partly guilty for helping steal the dragonspirit."
" Gird." Dreik hovered on a boulder, his short legs crossed. " That was Polan's doing. You, Blaze and the others were not responsible for what that monster did."
" Our greed was." He said sadly.
" Let it go brother." Syren stood and put her hand on his shoulder. Her voice like a song, so sweet. " We forgave you long ago, and you more then made up for the small part you played in all that with your protection. You should give yourself a break, take a flight and clear you mind for a while. We'll keep watch here."
"If you think it best." Gird bowed to his clan mates. "I could use some fresh air. Some exercise might be just what I need."
"Have a safe ride Brother." Syren waved as the small man left.
" Now if we could only reach into Insa's mind and do the same for him. " Sarah was almost in tears. As with all the dragons, her magic was controlled by her emotions so being a water dragon her hair and clothing were becoming damp with water from the air around them.
" Jandar tried." Dreik told her. He floated over to try and comfort her a bit " But this spell seems different then the one Polan cast. Sarah, I know we'll find a way to wake him. It's just going to take time."
" But do we have time?" She cried.
" We'll see." Syren said. " We will see."

Tomaz Acros was escorted to a waiting room outside of Baron Arturus's office. He knew Valkar and Arturus Gaelich would be in there discussing what was going on in Winterhaven. Tomaz wondered what could be bothering them so much. He was safe. Prafa was fine. Nothing that happened in Winterhaven could affect them in Prafa. All the while these thoughts went through his mind, Tomaz fingered the package in his pocket. A package he really had no idea he even had. All he knew was that he had to see King Valkar and pass him a message? But he couldn't remember from who? He just knew he had to see the king.
" Sir?" A voice called. " Sir!"
Tomaz was so lost in his thoughts he hadn't noticed the guard calling his name. He looked up with his red eyes a little dazed.
" His majesty is waiting for you." The guard turned and gestured for Tomaz to follow him. One last time Tomaz unconsciously patted his pocket then followed his escort into Baron Arturus office.
Gaelich manor was newly built in Prafa. Arturus's reward for his part and loyalty to Valkar in the war against his own brother Balthazar. The manor wasn't as large as many others but Valkar had spared no expense in its building or its furnishing. Elven woodworking and carvings, dwarven metalwork in the gates and on the walls. Valkar had hired some of the best artist in all the lands to help rebuild the city. Prafa was very proud of its new additions.
As Tomaz entered the office, Baron Gaelich was giving his last minute instruction on the menu and seating to the house staff. He looked up and bowed his head to Tomaz as he passed. Behind the Baron's elaborately carved desk sat Valkar the king of the vampire nation dressed in his finest. Valkar stood smiling welcoming Tomaz.
" Welcome Tomaz." Valkar held out his hand for him. Tomaz clutched it and they shook hands. Valkar pointed to a chair in front of the desk. " Have a seat. We want to hear all you can tell us of Winterhaven."
" Thank you your Majesty." Tomaz sat down making himself comfortable. " There's not much more I can add. I'm sure Lady Athene told you all I reported about being in Winterhaven. The people there are scared to death of what's going on there. I don't blame them."
" We know." Baron Gaelich came over and sat next to Tomaz. "We plan to send all the help we can. We just don't know who to help."
" That's where you come in." Valkar explained. " We need you to tell us all you can of the people that rescued you from the dungeon. Anything you can remember. a sound, a smell, anything at all."
" Your Majesty, they gave me something to give the Baron." Tomaz dug in his pocket. Valkar and Arturus watched waiting to see what his rescuers had sent them. Maybe somehow they could use it to find the underground movement in Winterhaven. Valkar had people with magic that could trace objects back to who they belong to. That might just be the way to find them. From his pocket Tomaz took a small wrapped package. It was the size of a ring box. Tomaz placed it down on the desk in front of his king.
" This I was to give to Baron Gaelich as a token of their respect." Tomaz looked sincerely at Valkar with his blood shot eyes. " They said this would explain everything and that the Baron would understand once he received it."
" What is it?" Arturus picked the box up and examined it. He shook it and heard something rattling inside. It was a rather plain little box wrapped in brown parchment and tied close with string.
" I don't know." Tomaz shrugged and turned to Valkar. " But I think you should have it."
" Me?" Valkar asked frowning. " I don't understand. Why me?"
" You are king of Yadessa." He said. " And you have the power to help them. Baron Gaelich would just come to you with their request anyway."
Valkar and Arturus looked at Tomaz. He was acting a little strange Valkar thought. Litely Valkar sent a probe into Tomaz mind just for a second. He probed him for any kind of treachery. His eyes looked strange, but Valkar didn't find anything on his mind. In fact he was completely calm.
" Open it." The king said.
Arturus untied the string and dropped it on the desk. He unwrapped the parchment and found inside was a little wooden ring box. Arturus showed it to Valkar then opened it. Inside wrapped in a velvet cloth was a beautiful gold ring with a deep blue sapphire stone set in it. Arturus held it up and watched the light reflect through it.
" Beautiful!" He said. " But this ring means nothing to me. It doesn't explain anything."
" Let me see it." Valkar put out his hand.
Arturus lowered the ring and reached out to place it in the kings hands. Just as it dropped, the Salvation pendant Valkar wore around his neck gave off a bright flash. A flash seen by everyone in Prafa. And that was the last thing anyone in Prafa saw for a long while, accept Tomaz Acros who suddenly knew just what his mission was here in Prafa.

" It rolled under the couch." Blaze said bending down to retrieve the object. He was being careful. He remembered the sting from earlier and his hand still hurt a little.
" Blaze." Rage stopped him. " You go check on our guest. I'll get that. See what you can find out from them. it may be important."
" Do you want them sent here to rest?" Blaze stood and walked to the door.
" Yes." Jandar told him. " Rose can find someplace for them on one of the lower floors. Just make sure someone keeps a watch on them."
" As you wish. I'll let you know if I find anything out." Blaze left leaving Jandar and rage alone in their study.
" This Winterhaven situation really has me worried." Jandar told his mate. " Pelic told me he knew Tayor Larin rather well. He said he was always trying to find someway to take control of the Winterhaven council. It seems he's found a way."
" I know." Rage bent down looking under the chair. " He told me all about this Lord Larin. That's why I sent him and the other Shadows to Winterhaven. Pelic is our best chance there. He knows the city and if anyone can find help there, it would be him."
" Have you found it yet?" Jandar stood and walked over to help Rage.
" Move the couch over."
Jandar grabbed the couch and pushed it over out of the way. There they saw what had fallen. It was a little golden totem of a dragon. Jandar and Rage stood looking down at it.
" A dragon." Rage smiled. " It's a little dragon. It looks like Shine."
Rage stepped forward and bent down to pick it up. Suddenly the Salvation stone in his neck gave off and bright flash of power.
" RAGE NO!!" Jandar yelled. " DON'T TOUCH IT!!"
But it was to late. Rage had picked it up and the magic from the two powerful objects clashed. A wave of power radiated out from the office and affected everyone one in New Keanna. The magic put everyone in a deep sleeping trance. Again, all the dragons in New Keanna were asleep. All except one.

As the magic of the totem and the Salvation stone clashed and knocked everyone in the city out, Insa the smoke dragon took a great gasp of breath and woke up. Weak he looked around not sure of where he was. But it didn't take him long to recognize his surroundings. He climbed to his feet and shifted back to his human form then fell back down. His head was still a little dazed so he sat and tried to remember everything that had happened. He remembered the academy and all the children. He remembered Zarin and his friends and the Gold ring they had found. Insa knew Tayor was looking for the ring. Then he remembered his fight with Tayor Larin and his coup of the city. The people of Winterhaven must be going through hell right now. He knew he had to get out and fight to get Winterhaven back to its rightful reign by the council.
Insa stood and looked around. He took his first weak steps. That's when he saw the bodies of Dreik, Syren and Sarah lying in the gold. He stumbled over to them to check and see if they were dead. He looked for breathing and found their chest expanding as they took in each breath of air. They were alive. He shook Syren and tried to wake her. He couldn't wake any of them. Insa got to his feet and made his way out of the Rookery.
Outside he found a completely silent city. The people of New Keanna were lying all around the city right where they had fallen. Insa tried waking many of them but soon realized this was a more powerful version of the spell he had been under. That meant this was all Tayor Larins doing.
" Damn that dark bastard!"
Insa knew he had to go check on Jandar and Rage and see who was here sleeping. He expected to find them in the same condition, but still he had to check. Insa looked around New Keanna and shifted to a cloud of smoke and flew all over the city. He found out that many of the dragons and the Shadows weren't here in New Keanna. They must be out on missions. He flew up and into a window to their study to check on Jandar and Rage. There he found them on the floor passed out. He drifted in and shifted then went to check the two kings of New Keanna. Just as he thought they were asleep. Rage began to build in the smoke dragon as he looked at his two kings lying on the floor.
He wasn't sure what to do. He knew he had to get to Winterhaven. He was probably the only mage powerful enough to fight Tayor. But he couldn't leave New Keanna unprotected. Someone had to be here and it would have to be someone that wouldn't be affected by Tayor's spell. He could think of only one that could do it.
[ Jax!!]
In a flash of light the god of justice appeared. His red hair blazing from the light from the window.
" Insa!" He said in surprise. " Your awake!'
" Yes, but they're not." Insa pointed to Jandar and Rage on the floor.
" What in the name of Rimnar happened here?" Jax looked at his friends in shock. " Who did this?"
" My guess is Tayor Larin is responsible."
" You mean the new lord of Winterhaven. " Jax bent down to check on Jandar and Rage. He could feel the magic on them.
" Can you break the spell?" Insa asked.
" No." Jax told him. " I couldn't wake you. He must have something powerful on his side. Some magic I can't quite touch. But I will help you to bring him to justice. That's for sure."
" Jax, I checked all over The city. We are the only ones here awake." He said. " I need you to stay and protect them. I know if no ones here, Tayor will attack."
" This city is protected by magic." Jax said. " They'll be fine."
" Are you willing to bet their lives on it?" Insa asked looking firmly at Jax. " Something made it past the spells once. You sure Tayor can't do it again?"
" I'll stay." Jax said agreeing. " But if you need me, you call. I'll be there in a flash. And I'll be watching."
" Thank you." Insa bent down and went to lift Jandar off the floor to make him more comfortable.
" I'll take care of them." Jax raised his hand and waved it over the two lovers on the floor. As if on some invisible pillow they floated up and sailed over to they're beds where he placed them softly down next to each other. Then turned back to Insa.
" Where will you go?" He asked.
" I'll start in Tir Na." Insa blow out a puff of smoke which formed into a cloak which he draped around his shoulders and tied on. " Then on to Valkar to see if he knows anything of what's going on."
" Good journey my friend." Jax reached out and they clasped forearms. " Be careful."
" You too." Insa stepped over to the wide windows of Jandar and Rages bedroom and threw them open. With a roar he shifted to smoke and flew out and off on his way.
Jax closed the widows behind him then turned back to look at the two sleeping men on the bed. " If there was ever a time Keanna needed dragons, I think it's now. I only pray the dragons we have are enough. Pleasant dreams brothers."

From the walls of New Keanna's gate the three strangers watched as first Gird then Insa opened their wings and took to the skies. With Insa awake the three knew the master would not be pleased with them. Something had to be done.
" Perdsen." Rina Somerall ordered. "You stay here and keep watch encase something else is awake in there."
"Where are you going?" Perdsen asked. He pushed one of the gate guards out of his way so Rina and Ton Haslin could pass.
"After the first Dragon that left. There's not much we can do about Insa, but the other, Ton and I should be able to deal with. You just keep watch and report all that happens back to Lord Larin. He will know what to do."
"What what about this red haired one? He looks dangerous."
"He looks like a simple rich boy if you ask me." Ton waved him off. "He's harmless, stay out of his way and you'll be fine,"
"I guess." Perdsen nodded and watched as his companions left the gate and went out into the forest after their enemy. New Keanna now seemed quiet. No dragons flew through the skies and none of it's people walked the streets. But somehow he knew he wasn't the only one awake in the Dragon city. Someone else was still awake here. He just had to wait and see who it was.

As the magic overwhelmed New Keanna and sent the Dragons into a deep state of dream sleep, Gird was flying low over the old mound that once housed the clan. He dropped down to land at the monument Dreik had erected to their memory and watched as the flames leaped skyward. He thought about the days past when he protected the Dragons in their sleep and missed the feel of their voices echoing through his mind comforting him. Gird wished there was a way he could reach Insa's sleeping mind, but this spell was different then Polan's. More powerful somehow. It had to be due to the fact that Tayor Larin had access to magic Polan could only dream of.
Things didn't seem to going very well these days. There was trouble in Winterhaven and something bad was happening in the Elven lands. Well at least all seemed well in New Keanna.
Just then He had a horrible feeling of dread. He looked up toward New Keanna in the west and something just didn't feel right. Worried he launched himself into the sky to return home. Finding a pillar of heat he spiral up then turned west beating his wings to get home.
Soon below him the forest surrounding New Keanna appeared. The normal sounds of beast big and small rang out from beneath him as he flew past. Ahead he could see the walls of the city so he beat his wings harder for more speed. Suddenly Gird heard a scream. It was the scream of a woman. It sounds like she was either in pain or being threatened. He looked ahead toward New Keanna anxious to get home then he scanned the forest below. Gird could feel something was wrong at home but being a Dragon, he couldn't ignore a cry for help.
Narrowing his wings he dived into the trees to search for the source of the scream. It didn't take him long to find it. Moving as fast as she could pushing through the thick forest, a brown haired woman ran. Behind her Gird could see the rustle of the trail of whatever chased her, but the was no sign of the actual beast. He dropped down lower and sped up to get in front of her. In a clearing he came to ground as the woman broke through the bush and came running at him. She looked at him and stopped short not sure what to think of his dragon like visage.
"Hurry to me!" Gird called. "I'm from New Keanna. I'll protect you!"
The woman smiled and nodded then right to get behind him for his protection.
"What follows and attacks you?" He asked as he waited for an attack to come out of the forest.
"You have it all wrong." He heard her say. "I'll be doing the attacking here."
Gird turn just as she fired a magical bolt of energy at his back. Searing pain ran through his back as the blast threw him off his feet. Gird scrambled to get up as a second blast hit the ground just beside him. Lashing out blindly he sent a torrent of flames at the place where he had last seen the woman. As he stood he saw she was not there. Turning quickly he dived to his side as the next blast hit. Gird rolled and blow out with his frost breath and heard a scream. The strange thing was that it was a mans scream he heard. He looked around to find a dark bearded man with cryptic symbols drawn on his arms laying frozen in the grass.
Gird roared out a challenge as the woman stepped out and raised her arms ready to cast her next energy bolt at him.
"Who are you?" Gird wrapped his wings around his shoulders to ready them to shield him.
"Rina Somerall and I'm the last thing you will ever see monster!" With a gleam in her eye she sent her blast at him. With a wave of his wings, Gird deflected the numbing blast away. Pain flared all along his wing to his backbone leaving him numb. Weakly he held his wings up and again sent his flames at her. She laugh and easily stepped aside to avoid his flames.
"You lose Dragon!" She laughed. "Just as the others of your kind have been destroyed, so shall you be!"
"Destroyed?" Gird flexed his wings and circled as the sun shined down on him through an opening in the foliage granting him more power. "What are you talking about?"
"Tayor Larin the new lord of Winterhaven has begin his bid for control of Keanna. The only thing that stands in his way is you Dragons. Earlier we visited your city and set about a spell that will incapacitate all of your cursed kind. By now every Dragon in New Keanna is either dead or dying in a deep dream like sleep."
"I don't think so Witch." Gird's eyes blazed with power and rage. "You and your lord will find it's not so easy to kill a Dragon. And you better be a whole lot better if you want to kill this Dragon!"
With that the attack began again. Standing in the open sun light Gird batted away at each of Rina's blast time and time again. Slowly he pushed his way forward through her agonizing blast. The pain was tearing into him but Gird set in his rage kept moving forward. Desperately Rina strengthened her blast with all the magic she had at her command but it was no use. Gird finally reached her and grabbed her glowing hands and sent her own magic plus his back into her. Rina screamed and fell smoking to the ground at his feet. Gird staggered weakly a few feet forward. He was completely out of power and magic. It would take him a long time to regenerate himself to his normal energy level. He looked up to the sun and roared then fell flat on his face out of power and unconscious.