Dark Attacks. 8

Azeal and Tanis sat in the study of Jandar and Rage in the manor in New Keanna. Rage was out searching overseas for Shayn and Ono. Both Azeal and Tanis had volunteered to help, but their parents instead, wanted them in school in Winterhaven. Now here they were back in the dragon's home.
"What the hell is going on in Winterhaven?" Jandar asked. "I keep hearing about people being attacked on there enchanted roads. Isn't anyone out there patrolling?
"Insa is aware of the problem." Azeal said. "But he's got more important issues at the moment."
"Like?" Jandar looked up at them. There was something in his eyes Azeal thought. It must be worry about Ono and Shayn. Not to mention his father Drake and his unstable mind.
"Like six missing student for one." Tanis came and sat next to Azeal. "Then there's the power struggle going on."
"What do you mean?" Jandar asked.
"Do you know Tayor Larin?" Azeal asked.
"I've heard of him." Jandar said sitting back in his chair. "Nasty dark mage. We thought he was in league with Polan during his reign. What's he got to do with this?"
"He's the one trying to overthrow the council." Azeal said. "We also think he has something to do with the missing students. We think they have something he wants."
"What's that? Missing students?"  Now Jandar was curious. He didn't like the thought of anyone snatching the children from their classrooms.
"A magical item that steals ones magic and their mind." Tanis told him. "Tayor plans to take the council that way. Once he owns their magic and wills, he'll disband the council and declare himself king."
Jandar thought for a moment. " I don't like that. Winterhaven is to close to New Keanna and that sounds like Polan's plan to me. How can I help?"
Azeal smiled and looked to Tanis. With Jandar's help, something could be done.
"We were thinking that one of us would join Tayor in order to gain his trust and learn his plans." Azeal explained.
"Go on." Jandar said listening. He folded his arms and hoped this plan wasn't going where he thought it was
"We thought that if we had something we could show him to prove our loyalty." Tanis continued. " We might be able to gain his trust."
"I think I know where this is going." Jandar held up his hand stopping them. "You're thinking of using the dragon talismans, am I right?"
"Yes." Azeal said looking at Tanis a little a surprised. "It won't be for long, and we can keep them safe I assure you."
"You both know I trust you like my own son's." Jandar looked at them. "As I would trust Ono and Shayn. So I'll give you the same answer I'd give them. Not a chance!!"
Azeal and Tanis looked at him in shock. They expected he would go along with their plan and agree with them.
"Have you any idea how powerful each of those items are?" Jandar stood from his desk, They could see his anger rising. "The Frostbelt could cover Winterhaven and New Keanna in snow deeper and faster then what Kearn did in Bravosa. The Firestaff has the power of a volcano. The Brace of Terra can move mountains and can you imagine what the Stomcatcher's dagger can do? There is no way I'd allow a dark mage like Tayor Larin even near any of the talismans. Think again."
"What of Pelic's cloak?" Tanis asked quietly.
Jandar looked at him in surprise. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. "You would put one of us in Tayor's hands?" He asked. "I don't know as much as I should about his cloak, but I do know it can never be separated from Pelic without him dying. You would chance that?"
"Uncle." Azeal said. "What happens if Tayor wins and takes over Winterhaven? He'll have all the magic of Winterhaven at his disposal. How much power would that be? Think about it."
Jandar knew that would be bad. Winterhaven is the most magical place on Keanna next to New Keanna itself or a few other places he hoped Tayor never thought of. They would have to call Aramis, Alea, and all the rest of the gods for help against Tayor if he gained all the power of Winterhaven. Something had to be done. But the talismans weren't the answer. Neither of the boys had the power to protect them if he turned it over to them. Tayor would just kill them and take it from them.
"Let me think on this a bit." Jandar said. "In the meanwhile. I want you both to help find these missing students. Do you know who they are?"
"No, but we could ask Insa." Tanis sat uncomfortably.
"I'll ask him." Jandar sat back at his desk. "Both of you go have something to eat. I'll call you after I talk to him. Tanis, stay a moment."
Azeal looked at Tanis as he walked to the door and left. He was worried about what Jandar might say to him. He might be angry because of his suggestion.
"Tanis, I'm not mad at you at all." Jandar smiled. "I just wanted to ask how things have been going since all that mess with your father ended. Hows your Mother and sister?"
"Athene's in Prafa helping rebuild the city." He said. "Uncle Arturus is there too. Last I was there, things are moving along pretty good."
"And your Mother?"
"Well we don't see her much." He said. "But she talks to us in our minds all the time. I know shes watching, I can feel her all the time."
Jandar stood and walked to the front of his desk and sat next to him. Tanis always felt comfortable in Jandar's presence. After his suggestion he was a bit uncomfortable, but that passed.
"I've spoken with her too." He said. "She wants me to let you know you have a home if you want and for Rage and I to became your guardians. I told her I would talk to you about it. How do you feel about that?"
"Really?" He asked. "You want me here? What about Azeal?"
"When your not in school of course we do." He smiled. "And Azeal already has his own room here. He knows he's welcome. What do you say?"
"I'd like that." He smiled at Jandar.
"Then talk to Rose and she'll give you a room in the family wing." Jandar stood and hugged Tanis. "Welcome to the Manor."
" Thank you." Tanis smiled. For him this would be the first real home he had ever had. Being under his fathers finger had always kept him on the move from place to place. Jandar watched as he left actually worried about him. He knew the talisman idea couldn't work. But there were other ways to gather information. Ways that wouldn't put Tanis or Azeal in harms way.
[ Cutter.] He sent out. [ I have a job for you.]

As evening began to creep in and the sun slide away, Gorak, Zark and Skang slipped quietly in the villa. The basement of the house was to be their destination armed each one with a collar Gorak had fashioned from strips of leather they had ripped from there garments. All day long Gorak have craved the symbols he remembered from the walls of the cells. After finished he had tried one on and tried cast a spell with no results. His magic wouldn't work. That meant the collars worked. Pleased with his work, he gave one to each of the other Orcs telling them to be careful not to scratch any of the symbols away.
Once inside then scented the air to find out where the occupants were. One they found on the upper floor, two other scents were coming from bellow. Gorak decided to head for the basement first. Quietly they made their way to the rear of the villa and the stairs that went down. It was dark down there, but that was no problem for Orc eyes. They didn't need much light. As they moved, the scents became stronger. From their scents, Gorak could tell they were young, and males. He smiled, he could also tell they had magic and that one of them had been trying to use his to escape.
On the bottom landing there was a door that led into the cell area. Skang pushed it open and they barged in. One human stood clutching the bars. Surprise lit his face as he saw them enter.
"Orcs!!" Trip warned Rese backing away. With a quick gesture, Gorak sent a stun bolt at him knocking him out and to the floor. The other boy jumped to his feet as he heard Trip yell. Gorak walked to his cell raising his hand.
"No, no, nooo!!" Rese backed up holding his hands in front of his face trying to shield himself. Gorak sent another stun bolt to knock him out. Another gesture opened the cells and Skang and Zark went in and put the collars on them and dragged them out.
"What about the other one up stairs?" Skang asked after tying their hands.
"Leave him." Gorak said. "These two are enough."
"Are you crazy!! Zark angrily got in his face. "We're hungry. We could eat that one!"
"Then go and get him." Gorak's hands began to glow to show he was still their leader. "But you will not hurt him. We take them all, and one of you fetch the wolves. We can eat them. "
Gorak cast a levitation spell to move their prisoner out of the dungeon area.
"Meet me in front of the villa with the others. And hurry your asses up!!" As he left, the two boys floated behind him out.
Skang looked at Zark. "I'm gonna kill him as soon as we're back in Ardia."
Zark nodded his agreement and headed to capture Craven upstairs.

Up in the study, Craven heard the screams of Trip and Rese. He grabbed his sword from his pack and ran for the entrance down to the cells where he had left the boys. For the first time since he broke Tabor's spell on him, Craven felt fear. If anything happened to either of them, he knew it was all his fault. Reaching the door that led him down, Craven called a spell to cover his sword in a bright green flame and swung open the door. Before him stood the ugliest Orc he had ever seen holding a mace in his hand. Growling it swung for Craven's head, it missing and smashing the door. Craven leaped back holding out his glowing blade. The Orc charged at him swinging his mace at him. Craven countered with his sword blocking his blows as they came and moving back. Thinking fast, Craven sent power pulsing through his sword at his enemy. In a flash of green, the pulse power erupted from the sword knocking the Orc back into a old chest against the wall. Craven took off passing the Orc and ran into the basement and down the stairs
"TRIP!!!" He shouted.
Pushing back the hood from his head frantically looking around, he saw the cells were empty. Trip and the other boy was gone. From behind him he heard the Orc coming down the stairs howling like a beast enraged. Craven stood and waited for the Orc to enter the room with a spell on his lips. With his mace raised the Orc entered. Craven let loose his spell silently. As it hit the Orc it froze in its charge. He walked to the Orc noticing the collar on its belt.
"Where are they?" He asked.
Sweat ran from the Orcs brow as he struggled to get loose. But the spell held him tight.
"You have two choices. You can stay silent and I'll torture you until you tell me. Or I can turn you over to the City Guards and they can do it. Then I guess they'll do what they did with the rest of the Black Armors they caught. That's send you to Mythioes and the gargoyles where you get eaten."
Zark's eyes lit in defiance. He knew gargoyles ate you alive piece by piece. What he didn't know was that the dragons had set Gird there to protect all the prisoners. They had built a compound and they were all safe serving their sentences.
"Well?" Craven asked raising his hand to the Orcs face as it began to glow and give off heat. "What's it to be? I might free you once I get them back if you help."
"You swear you'll free me?" Zark asked.
"You swear you won't betray me?" Craven answered.
"I  swear." Zark nodded. "And I know where they're going."
Craven snatched the collar from the Orcs belt and looked at it. He'd seen these symbols before. He looked back to the cells and saw the exact same symbols. He smiled at Zark.
"This was meant for me wasn't it?" He waved it in his face.
"Yes."
"There's a mage in your group, right?" He asked. "And how many are there?"
"Yes, Gorak."  Zark answered. " And there's five of us. We've been hiding here since the downfall of Polan the Necromancer."
[I can help you change that collar so he will be obedient.] Micah told his grandson. [But we must hurry. We don't want them to get to far ahead of us.]
[Grandfather.] Craven said in him mind. [Zarin and the others are on their way, I'm sure. I think I should wait for their help.]
[Craven.] Asked his grand sire. [Are you sure?]
[I'd love to go in there and rescue Trip and the other boy.] He said. [But I can't battle Orcs on my own. No matter how many there are. I'll need help and Zarin and his friends are my only hope. Besides, this one knows where they're going. If Zarin agrees, We can catch them.]
[I'm very proud of you son.] Micah sent. [Now scratch out those symbols. These are the symbols you need. Etch them in, put it on him and let us go find some help.]
[I don't think he'll be needing the collar.] Craven tossed it aside. "Will we?"

" We're not going to get home tonight." Dack asked Zarin looking exhausted. " Are we?"
"I don't think so. It's getting pretty late." He turned to Reno. "We better find somewhere to stay for the night."
Reno nodded his agreement then called to Thalia to come back to them. Zarin and Dack walked over to him and took there packs off their back.
"Trip's scent is close, but faint." He said. "What do you want to do? Go on or stop for the night?"
"How close do you think we are?" Zarin asked. Thalia flew into land and shifted back.
"Less then a mile." She told them. "There's a house with lights just ahead. I think he's in there."
"Then we go on." Zarin picked up the packs and handed Dack his. "We'll go together. We'll all shift. Dack, you have a form to use?"
"I practiced a leopard in class." He nodded his head. "I can do it."
"OK. I have and eagle form." Zarin shouldered his pack. "Thalia and I will fly, You two come by ground. Dack, stay close to Reno. Everybody ready?"
Zarin watched as one by one they shifted into there new forms. Thalia into a raven that hopped into the air and took off. Reno took his full wolven form and howled. Next Dack concentrated and shifted to a sleek black panther, he growled and went over to stand with Reno. Last of all Zarin. As his eyes flashed gold, he spread his arm and shifted into a large golden eagle that shrieked his approval and launched himself into the air.
[Let's go!]
Flying high over the forest Zarin looked ahead to see the house Thalia had been talking about. It was a rundown villa someone had abandoned long ago. He could see Thalia circling the house waiting for him. Below he saw Reno and Dack running at top speed through the trees, jumping over logs and bushes towards the villa. It took Zarin less then a minute to join Thalia. They found a place to land on a window ledge and looked in. There they saw Craven in a chair with his hands in his lap. Over in the corner Zarin saw what looked to be an Orc just sitting there. Reno was right. It was Craven that took Trip. Zarin's anger began to build. He leaped back into the air and circled the house gathering speed then crashed through the window with Thalia following him. As he hit the floor, Zarin began his change back. He rushed over to Craven and grabbed him by the collar and pulled him up to face him.
"YOU TOOK TRIP!" He yelled holding him close to his still feathered face, his eyes burning with anger. "WHERE IS HE?!"
"Zarin?"
"Yes!" He hit him in his face. Craven crashed to the floor and lay there. "How could you Craven. You use to be our friend."
Seconds later they heard the door downstairs come crashing in. It was Reno and Dack. They came bounding up the stairs into the room roaring. Craven shuffled back to the wall looking scared. Snarling like the beast he was, Dack moved forward growling at him.
"Stop Dack!" Thalia called to him. "Don't hurt him!"
Zarin looked at Dack. He knew he was anger and the panther in him might have taken to strong a hold on him. He looked at Craven. He knew Craven could defend himself, but he wasn't. Why wasn't he?
[Because he's been under Tabor's spell and he thinks he's to blame for what has happened.] Zarin heard in his head. [Help my grand son please!]
Without thinking Zarin leaped in front of Craven to protect him.
"Dack!" He yelled. "Shift back now!!"
But Dack kept coming, growling and snarling. Thalia moved quickly in with Zarin.
"Little brother." She said tears in her eyes. "Will you hurt me too?"
As Dack raised his paw with extended claws he looked at Zarin and stopped. He had control of the leopard again. He stepped back and shifted to himself and fell to the floor. He sat and looked up at the others with the eyes of a cat, green and glowing.
"That was intense!" Dack said. "Is everyone alright?"
Reno walked over to Craven and pulled him from the floor. "Where is he?"
"The Orcs took them." Craven looked into Reno's eyes. "I'm sorry, it's all my fault."
Reno raised his fist to hit him. Quickly stepping over, Zarin grabbed his friends arm.
"Wait." he said. "I think there's more to this then Craven."
"What do you mean?" He just said. "It's all his fault. What more is there?"
"Craven. I heard a voice saying something about Tabor." Reno released him. "Is it true? He had a spell on you?"
Craven looked at Zarin in shock. Could he have heard grandfather? It's not possible.
[Yes it is.] Micah said to Craven and Zarin. [I can talk to all of them. To whoever I want.]
"Who was that?" Reno spun on his heels looking for whoever spoke. Dack stood there with surprise on his face.
"This place is haunted? " Dack said.
"No, I am." Craven sat sat back in his chair. "That's my Great, great, great, great, great, grandfather your hearing. He's always with me. And yes that fucking Tabor had me spelled to follow him. I didn't know, I thought it was all me. But with grandfather's help and seeing what I was doing to Trip, I finally broke the spell."
"I knew something was wrong with you." Dack said. "You changed so fast. It just wasn't like you."
"What about Trip?" Thalia asked. "You said the Orcs took him?"
"Yes." Craven turned to Zark in the corner. "He can lead us to them."
"Us?" Reno said.
"Yes, I have to help save him." Craven walked over to Reno. "I was under Tabor's spell, but It was still me doing those things. Please Reno, Let me help."
"How?" Reno asked still angry and untrusting. "How are you going to help?"
Craven pointed to the Orc in the corner. "You all think Orc's are savage and honor less, but they're not. He's given me his word and I trust him. He knows where they're going. We can catch them."
Reno looked at Craven and the Orc. He didn't want his help. But he had to find Trip and if this was the only way. He would defiantly use him.
"I don't trust you like Dack does." he said. "But if Dack and Zarin feel you deserve a chance, I'll give you that chance. Zarin?"
"He use to be a good friend." Zarin said. "I'll trust him again. Tomorrow we start after them first thing in the morning. Reno, can you hunt us up something to eat?"
"Sure." He said. "I'll be right back with food."

After leaving Jandar's study, Tanis found Rose and she showed him to his new room next to Azeals. He looked around it the huge lavish bed and all the things Rose had put into his room. There was a bureau and a chest at the end of his bed for private things. He had a desk for writing and comfortable chairs. One one side of the room there was a fire place that he was told burned as long as he wanted with a double sized couch for napping. Opposite the door there was was a balcony. Tanis walked over opened the door and stepped out into the night air. Everything in New Keanna was at peace now. He watched as the guards patrolled the city keeping them all safe. Tanis looked out in to the night thinking about what had happened earlier. Jandar had denied them use of the talismans, and for good reason. They were far to powerful to be allowed out of there safe place. If Tayor got his hands on any of them, he would be far to powerful and dangerous. But Insa needed there help. Tanis didn't like Azeal's idea. He didn't want to get close to Tayor. Having served one dictator was enough for him. But he didn't see much choice. If that was what he had to do to help, he would do it.
[There's other ways my grandson.]
Tanis looked up to the half moon in the sky. He smiled as he felt his grandmothers touch.
"Evening Grandmother." he called into the night.
[Why so sad?] Alea asked.
"I'm trying to help a friend in need." He explained. "But I can't think of a way we can help."
[The best way you can help in Winterhaven is to be there when he needs you most.]
Tanis looked up to the moon and his grandmother. "Winterhaven? How did you know?"
[Tanis.] She sent. [I'll always be watching you and Athene.]
" Can you help us?"
[You don't need help.] He heard. [But you should get back. Insa will need you there soon, both of you.]
"But Jandar asked us to wait." Tanis stood and paced along his balcony. "He wants to help."
[Jandar's time to help will come.] She told him. [But now its your time. Get Azeal and get back to Winterhaven by morning. Trust me Tanis, go.]
Tanis stopped and thought about it. He knew his grandmother had the ability of far sight. Obviously she was trying to tell him something. He turned and grabbed his coat and left his room.
[Azeal, we're leaving! Meet me out front now!]
[What's the hurry.] Azeal sent. [I'm tired.]
[And it's about to get worst.] Tanis told him as he rushed through the halls. [We have to get back to Winterhaven. I think there's trouble.]
The family wing of the Manor was on the upper most floors. Tanis hurried down the stairs moving two at a time. As he ran he called out to Jandar.
[Jandar, we have to get back. Insa is in trouble!]
[Do you want any help?] He answered. [I could send Blaze or the Shadoes with you.]
[No.] Tanis told him. [This is for Azeal and I to do.]
[OK young one. But If you need help. Blink can be there in seconds. Just call me. Fly quickly.]
[We will uncle.] Tanis reached the bottom as Azeal in his hawk form flew over his head.
"Time to go, brother!" Tanis opened the door and ran out with Azeal following. Concentrating on his change, Tanis launched himself in the sky shifting to a falcon. With a squawk the two vampires were back on their way to Winterhaven, flying high and as fast as they could.

With his cane now attuned to him, Tayor sat for a moment thinking about what he had to do this night. He knew adding the spells to the cane would take him the rest of the night and not leave him any time for sleep. He hoped he would be done and strong enough for the first test he had scheduled in the morning. Councilor Begaise would be here bright and early. He would be a perfect test for his new weapon. But there was something else he wanted done tonight. His thoughts turned to his enemy, Insa that damned smoke dragon. He wanted him destroyed and and out of his way. Tayor knew Insa would most likely be immune to the canes magic so a more physical touch would be needed. At this time of night, He would probably be asleep in his lair above the council chambers. Tayor had studied his enemy and knew of their dream state and the control they had over their dreams. Insa would be aware of his surroundings while dreaming. The only chance Tayor would have is if he could distract him in his dreams so his men could slip in and slay the dragon. He would have to weave a very powerful dream for him. Something so real he wouldn't even notice his surroundings.
Tayor reached up and pulled the cord to call Yoron his aide. Minutes later Yoron knocked at the door.
"Enter."
Yoron, a tall man dressed in leather trousers and boots and a black peasant shirt entered. At his side he wore a long sword and dagger. His long dark hair was tied back with a strand of leather. His face scared from previous battles, he walked up to Tayor and bowed.
"What is your wish Master?"
Tayor Larin gave Yoron a grim look. "There's something I want you to do tonight."

Streaking through the darkness, Tanis and Azeal saw the lights of Winterhaven not far in front of them.
[We're almost there!] Tanis sent. [I see Winterhaven there ahead.]
[Good.] Azeal sent flying closer. [The council building is there in the center. Head for those windows high up. That would be Insa's balcony.]
As they made their descent, a voice rang out in their minds. It was Jandar. [ Tanis, Azeal. Somethings not right here.]
[What is it uncle?]
[I've been in Rage's dreams enough to know my way into a dragons dream.] Jandar sounded worried. [I can't get into Insa's dream. I should be able to with no problem but something is blocking me.]
[What?] Azeal asked.
[There's only one thing that could block me.] he told them. [Magic. Someones put a dream weaving on him. Get in there fast!]
[We're going in now!]

The city government building from Winterhaven was a tall majestic building in the center of the city. It had three tall towers used as prison cells for the more important prisoners and some of the most important members had offices . The council room was located in the center of the lower areas. Tanis and Azeal flew around the tower and sighted the windows of the council chambers. There they came down to land. As vampires, both Azeal and Tanis had very acute hearing, smell and vision. That didn't change when shifted to other forms. They could hear the sounds of the sleeping dragon, his heavy breathing rang through the chamber. Being a dragon, Insa never thought he need a home of his own. Even though he had two wards to care for, he lived on a balcony high above the council chambers while Reno and Trip stayed in the dormitories that house the children that came from afar.
Slipping through the window, Tanis and Azeal flew up to Insa's balcony. there the found him sound asleep in his dragon form. Insa was a very large gray smoke colored dragon. his wings were folded to his back and his great head lay on his fore paws issuing lite wisps of smoke.
The two vampires shifted back to their normal form and walked close to the dragon.
"He seems alright." Tanis turned to Azeal.
"Alright?" Azeal said. "Far from it. We shouldn't be able to get this close to a sleeping dragon. Dragons are totally aware of their surroundings. Even in their sleep. Jandar's right. There's some kind of spell on him."
"You know how to brake it?" Azeal asked.
"No, I have no idea."
"Wait! I have one." Azeal stepped up to Insa's large smoky snout and bent over.
"What are you doing?"
"Something Jandar taught me." he said. "Now be quiet and ready to move quickly. If he wakes, I don't know what his reaction will be."
Reaching over, Azeal put his hand over Insa's snout. He was looking for the spot Jandar showed him for waking sleeping beings. Right between the eyes. Azeal pressed down there then jumped back. Nothing, it didn't work.
"Now what?" Tanis asked.
"Now you die!!" A voice came from behind them. As Azeal turned Tanis dived over Insa's snout and rolled to his feet. Charging at them they saw Four men. Three armed with raised swords, one with a bow coming at them. Azeal pulled Justice from its scabbard and countered the first man. The clang of there swords echoed through the chamber as Azeal pushed him back with vampires strength. Jumping over the sleeping dragon two men came at Tanis. He smiled and swiftly ducked the first swing with ease and kicked out at the mans knee braking the it. As the man fell howling in pain, Tanis jumped into the air and came down in front of the second attacker.
"You thought you were coming to kill a sleeping dragon, didn't you."
The man looked at Tanis. He pulled a dagger from his belt and got into a fighting stance.
"Seems we got more then we hoped for." He said as the ducked and an arrow came flying at Tanis to hit him in his shoulder spinning him around.
"No!" Azeal screamed as his opponent made to gut him. As his anger flared Justice began to give off a blue glow and Azeal began to move with a blurring speed at his attacker. Slicing left then right and then slashing up, Justice cut the man down in pieces. Now the only on left was the bowman. He pulled an arrow from his quiver and took aim at Azeal. Tanis stood smiling and pulled the arrow from his shoulder.
"You sure you want to do this?" Tanis said. "I can be at your throat before you let go of the string. Or you can get the hell out of Winterhaven cause if I see you again ever. I will kill you. Decide now."
Sweat ran from the mans forehead as he held Azeal in his sights. He thought he could kill one of them before the other got him. He knew if he left Youron would find him and torture him to death because they failed. He pulled the string back a bit more to fire when suddenly Tanis was standing in his face snapping the arrow in two.
"To late." With three quick blows, Tanis hammered into his chest killing him. The bowman fell silently at their feet spilling his arrows everywhere.
"I'm glad that's over." Tanis kicked the body aside and went over to Azeal.
"It's not over." Azeal said. "I think there a lot more to come."

Deep in his dream Insa flew over the countryside looking for Zarin and the rest or his students. He knew he was dreaming, but sometimes he could learn things in his dreams. But it didn't seem like that would be the case tonight. As he flew he felt something strange come over him. He was being spelled. Spelled to stay asleep. That meant someone was going to attack his body. He turned in the air and flew as fast as he could back to Winterhaven. As he approached the city his eyes saw something strange. All around the wall he saw a glow that completely covered the city. Insa didn't what it was but he had a feeling that it was meant for him. As he came closer pain began to radiate through his body. It became more intense the closer he got. Soon the pain was so bad he had to turn away. As the pain dwindled Insa be gain to panic. He had to get back to his body to wake or it would die and his spirit would wander for eternity. Insa knew he only had one hope, only one place to go. New Keanna. If he could get Jandar, Eheren, or Cutters attention, he would have a chance. And he had to get back or the kids and the city had no chance against Tayor. He knew that was who had done this to him. He had begun his bid to be king. King of the Magical City of Winterhaven.

Trouble Comes from Everywhere. 7

Tayor Larin labored hard in his workshop on his plan. He had pulled all the old texts and scrolls on dark magic he could find and spread them out on his desk. If he couldn't have the Gold Ring of Endrin, he'd make his own. Tayor searched for the right enchantments he thought he would need. Like spells that made a man's minds malleable to being used. Spells to siphon magic from others. Then he looked for the magic that would heighten his own abilities. Lastly, Tayor wanted something that would be strong against dragons. It took him hours searching to find the right spells. Once he did, he sat and read over them. This was all very dangerous magic he knew. He would have to get these spells and enchantments exactly right. One mistake and the consequences would be dire. Dark magic could be very dangerous if one didn't know what he was doing or was sloppy in any way. And it took strict concentration to cast. But Tayor was an old master at his craft. All he needed was rest and seclusion to begin his work and something to put the spells on. He thought about the rings he wore. But they already had certain spells on them. Spells that might clash with what he had planned. He needed something free of magic, something clean. Tayor looked around his study for something useful. In a case on the wall, there was a display of daggers. He walked over and inspected them. He could feel a small spark of magic in each of them. They wouldn't work. On his desk beside the scrolls and books, there was an assortment of things. Quills, spectacles and other tools he used. Nothing useful here. By the door, he saw a coat rack and a case for walking sticks and staffs. Tayor searched through them one at a time checking each until he found a cane Tabor had given him years ago as a child. He and his mother had found it in a shop in the marketplace and Tabor had insisted she buy it for him. The cane was made of fairy oak, perfect for absorbing magic. It was a little over three feet long with what looked like a white claw holding a crystal orb. He picked it up and stared into it searching for any kind of magic imbued in it. Tayor smiled as he found nothing there. It was perfect for what he intended. He knew he would have to thank his son again for this gift. Tabor would be happy to see it in his father's hand as his new weapon.
Clearing all the clutter from his work table, Tayor started the first spell he would need. A spell to bond the cane to him. He placed it on the table and took out five black candles made from the worked down essence of dead men. He placed each at the five points of a star then waved his hand at the burning torches in the room to put them out. With a snap of his fingers, the candles ignited burning with a mystical black flame that lit the dark chamber. Then his spell began.

TIME FLOWS AND DARKNESS REIGNS OVER THE LAND.
POWER GROWS AND FLOWS FROM MY HAND.
I CALL TO THE MASTERS OF THE NIGHT TO GRANT THEE
FAVOR AND BOND THIS CANE TO ME.
BRING POWER TO THIS CANE, BRING POWER TO BE.
WITH A TOUCH I ACCEPT IT. BONDED NOW TO ME.

As he spoke the powers of the night began to fill the room. Darkness flashed and spun in the air above Tayor and the cane. Slowly magic began to flow into the cane as it rose in the air in front of its master. As Tayor reached out his hand and touched the cane the darkness explodes and the bond was made. It was now a part of him and only able to be used by him. Tayor looked at the cane. Where the claw was once white, now it was as black as the midnight sky. He held it up and looked into the crystal. In it he could see stars and the swirling power of the darkness. He was pleased. Now he could carefully add the spells he wanted and his destiny as the King of Winterhaven was closer at hand.

The forest of Winterhaven could be a very dangerous place if one was not prepared for it. There were many different kinds of dangerous animals living there. To leave or enter the city, one should always stay on the protected paths. To wander off could mean certain death. Having rarely been out but taught all about what was out there, Zarin and his friends moved slowly and carefully listening to every sound they heard around them. They saw many beautiful birds and small animals. Animals none of them could identify moving around them.
"Reno," Zarin asked. "Do you still have his scent?"
"Yes." He told him. " But it's getting weaker. And there's another scent."
"Somethings hunting him?" Dack asked worriedly.
"No, its the person that took him." Reno's lips curled in a snarl.
"I smell it too," Thalia said. "And I know who it is."
"Who?" Zarin asked. His thoughts turned to Tabor. He had to have something to do with this.
"Craven!" Reno snarled. "That bastard smell is all over this trail."
"Craven?" Dack couldn't believe it. "Look, I know he's mad because of what we did. But Craven's not like Tabor and the dark elves. We were friends a few years ago before Tabor got his hooks in him. Remember Zarin? When his family first came to Winterhaven he was just another scared kid like us."
"Dack, he's changed," Zarin said. "And not for the better."
"We'll see. " Dack frowned. "Let's just find them and get Trip back. We'll worry about Craven when we find him.
Quietly they made their way through the dense forest swatting at insects buzzing at them. As worried as he was about Trip, Dack couldn't get his mind off Craven. How could he have changed so much? He knew he was angry because of past events in his life. But to change so much Dack just didn't understand. Casting that spell on him was wrong of Dack, that he knew. But there was no other way. They couldn't allow Tabor to get his hand on that ring. And Craven's' confusion was a small price to pay. He just wished Craven had not joined with that ass.
Following the wall with Reno in the lead, they pushed through thick brush. Soon they saw a clearing. That meant the road was probably near. Suddenly Reno stopped them. He sniffed the air and his pointed ears flared up.
"You smell that?" He asked Thalia.
"Somethings dead." She said nodding. "I'll check it out."
Thalia closed her eyes and shifted to her raven form and flew off into the trees. Zarin and Dack stepped up closer to Reno to see what had stopped them.
"What's wrong?" Zarin asked his friend.
"There's something out there." He whispered. "I can smell blood. It's pretty strong so it must be resent. Thalia's going to check it."
"You don't think it could be Trip do you?" Zarin asked. He and Dack looked at Reno with fear in their eyes.
"No." He said. "I can tell there's more than four people there and I don't smell him. And you know I would smell it if it was him."
"That's a relief." Dack sat down and started going over spells in his head. He wanted to be ready for anything that they might encounter out there.

Soaring high on her deep black wings, Thalia gazed down on the scene below her. She saw the gypsy wagon laying on its side with all its contents spilled and scattered around. Tilting her wings, she spiraled down to settle on the side of the wagon and looked around for any sign of the attacker. Her sharp raven eyes didn't see any threats in the area. Thalia jumped down and shifted back to normal to begin her search. All around the camp she saw their possessions thrown about like trash. She looked to the wagon. It didn't look like it had been searched, just knocked over by something big. On the ground by the steps leading in, she saw large deep bloody tracks. Thalia stood and looked around and noticed they were everywhere. She knew what it was that attacked these people. It was Garmr. The same hound that attacked them probably. She wondered how many died here in the attack.
[Four of us.] She heard in her mind. Thalia jumped up ready for an attack, but there was no one there.
[Who calls?] She looked all around to find whoever she had heard. Suddenly a mist began to form in front of the wagon. Slowly it spun until it formed into the shape of a man dressed in gypsy attire. It was an elder man. Old enough to be her grandsire. he wore baggy trousers and a loose-fitting shirt. There were gold chains around his neck and wrist and what looked like silver in his ears. There was a sad look on his whizzed face. Thalia stepped closer to the apparition to talk with it.
[That was your wagon?] She asked.
[Yes. My family and I were traveling to Winterhaven to get my grandson into school there when we were attacked.] He settled down close to where she stood. He was almost close enough to touch. But being from a long distant gypsy line, she knew that would be a violation of his spirit.
[I'm sorry, old father.] She bowed to him. [ Our city should have welcomed you.]
[I am Jakub Pedescu.] He said. [Healer and elder of my clan. You are of the old vampire blood of Yadessa, am I right?]
[Yes I am. ] She told him. [My name is Thalia Samanis and I do come from Vasagi. Unfortunately, the city's in ruin now a being repaired. But how did you know?]
[I am an old mage. And even dead, I have still a little power. But not for long, I need your help.]
[What can I do for you?] She asked.
[When we were attacked, there were two men guiding the beast. I didn't understand why anyone from Winterhaven would want to stop us from getting to the city. I still don't. But after I died, I heard them speak a name. Tayor. Do you know what this means?]
[Yes I do.] She told him. [An evil man that wishes to take our city from us.]
[Then Insa must be told of this.] He said. [This you must do before its to late.]
[Is there anything else?] She asked agreeing.
[Yes, my grandson fled into the forest. I need you to find him and get him to safety in the city walls. Take him to Insa.] As he talked he began to fade. [Find Rese, please. Insa promised to teach him the arts of healing to continue our family heritage as a healer. Save him please!]
[I will Sire. I promise.]
And Jakub Pedescu was gone. Now they had someone else to find. Thalia shifted and took off to tell her friends what she had found.

It didn't take long before Thalia came winging back and landed on Reno's shoulder.
"What did you find?" Zarin asked her.
[There's a gypsy wagon out there.] She sent. [It was lured off the road by Tayor's men, Somehow he's behind this.]
"Gypsies?" Dack sighed. " Why would he do that?"
"And how did you find this out?" Zarin looked at her in wonder.
[I met a ghost of the dead gypsies. He told me. And he says his grandsons are missing. He ran into the forest during the attack] Thalia answered as she hopped down and shifted. She shook out her hair and continued. "We have to find him and get back to tell the Professor."
"I can warn the Professor from here," Zarin said. "But now there's three we have to find. We better get moving."
"The trail goes this way." Reno took the lead again and headed toward the east.

"So how do you want to do this?" Tanis asked as he and Azeal left the Council building. Azeal looked over the street they were on. It was busy with citizens of Winterhaven going about their business. Shopping in the marketplace and visiting. None of them knew the danger they were all in.
"One of us should join with Tayor Larin," Azeal told him looking in his eyes with a smile. Tanis stopped.
"You mean me?" Tanis through his hands up in a huff. "Why me? You could do it!"
"Who's going to believe the crown prince of Yadessa is turning dark?" He asked. "Would you believe it? After all, we just did to free Yadessa. But you, your Balthazar Gaelich's son. I'll bet this Tayor even knew your father."
"That makes me a good candidate?" Tanis looked angry." The sins of the father?"
"I'm sorry Tanis." Azeal pulled him to a quiet place where they could talk. "What choice have we got? Somebody has to get close to them. We need to know what they're doing. If you have a better idea, I'm listening."
"You think he'll trust me?" Tanis asked. He sat down on the wall that separated the two shops they were in front of.
"No, I think he's going to watch you like a thief in his house." Azeal sat next to him. "You're going to have to do something to prove yourself."
"Like what?"
Azeal thought for a minute. There was only one thing Azeal could think of that might do it. And he wasn't sure if it would work. It just might make Tayor overly suspicious as to how Tanis got them. The Dragon Talismans. But what if he didn't give them to him, but just knew where they were?
"I've got an idea," Azeal told Tanis. "But we have to talk to Jandar first. That means a quick trip to New Keanna, and we should hurry."

At a table in Tabor's favorite haunt called The Rouge Warlock, Tabor met with Elan and Aron. He looked serious like they were all in deep trouble. Tabor motioned them to sit then ordered drafts for them all. Once the waiter was gone he started talking.
"I've searched this whole city and none of them are here." He said. "That includes Craven. He's taken Trip to try and get us back the ring. How do we find him?"
"Maybe you shouldn't," Elan said.
Tabor looked at him with an odd look. "What's that mean?"
"It means if he has Trip, and Trip knows where the ring is. You let him get it back." Elan sat back in his chair. "Your father plans to overthrow Winterhaven right?"
"Yes." Tabor listens.
"Then you help him there." He said. "Chasing all over the land with no idea where he is or where he's going won't help, will it? Who knows if we'll even find him. But if he's with you, he'll get back with the information. If he's not, then you better plan for that. Either way, I'm sure your father has something in mind in case you don't find the ring."
"Yes." Tabor agreed. He smiled at his two friends. Something shined in his eyes and they knew he'd just had an idea. "I just had another thought. What if I find it and keep it?"
"I get it." Aron moved in close. "You let your father do all the battling, then move in and finish it yourself. That's pretty low."
"But how will you find it?"
Tabor held up his ring. "With this. It might take some time, but it can find the ring."
Aron and Elan stood up and pushed their chairs back to the tables. Their leader had a plan they thought just might work.
"We're with you, Tabor," Elan said. "Just tell us what you want and we'll do it."
"Then follow me," Tabor told them getting up. "It's time we find that ring."
Aron watched as Elan and Tabor walked out together plotting and planning against Zarin and Tayor. He didn't like where this was heading. He didn't like the influences Tabor had on Elan. He was going to have to do something soon before it was too late to save Elan.

Prisoners. 6

As Tayor stepped from the transport stone into his study, he reached out enraged and knocked everything from his desk. He looked at the globe of Keanna next to his desk and sent a bolt of energy at it blowing it to bits. As his anger flailed he blasted all the books from the shelves then tore down the shelves too. Looking at his destroyed study and bellowed out his anger. Once done, he sat in his chair livid from the way he had been treated by Insa. He knew Insa was wise to him now. That Testa brat surely would have told him all about the ring by now. That was probably what was behind his anger in the council chamber. But what was that threat all about? Who the hell was missing? This had to be more of Tabor's doing.
From up in his room, Tabor heard the noise from his fathers study. Zarin or one of his friends must have broken in he thought. He got up from his desk formulating an attack and hurried downstairs to catch them. They would be sorry he thought. Then again, this might be just what he needed to force them to turn over the ring to him. His father would be please. Tabor readied himself as he stood and listened at the door. There was silence. Could they have gotten away? He reached for the door and pushed it open and rushed in. There he found his father sitting in the middle of the destroyed room staring at him.
"Shut the door." Tayor said. Tabor knew somehow he was in trouble. He shut the door and went and sat before his father.
"You have something to tell me." Tabor could see his father knew something he didn't. He thought for a moment before answering.
"Father." Tabor said. "We searched the whole city, but we haven't found anything."
"Have you?" He said. "It's here in this city somewhere, so you haven't searched everywhere. But that's not it. What have you done to that boy and his friends?"
"Nothing, father!" Tabor looked at him in shock. "I haven't seen any of them since we came back from the mines, I swear!"
"Then maybe you should go find them since they have the ring." Tayor stood from his chair. He looked around and waved his hand in the air casting a spell. All around him items began to fly through the room righting themselves. Broken objects fixed themselves, books and scrolls torn apart came back together and returned to the shelves they belonged on. Tayor turned to his son.
"Your Professor said someone was missing." Tayor sat on the edge of his desk. "If one of his little bastards is missing, it has to have something to do with the ring. You better go find out who's missing. If its one of them, find out who took them. AND GET MY RING BACK!!"
"Yes father!" Tabor jumped from his chair and ran from the room. He had a job to do, and he'd better get all his crew together or there would be hell to pay.

Still under his cot, Trip woke from a nightmare. He dreamed he was alone running from a dark hooded man. He didn't know who it was, but for some reason he felt his pursuer was familiar. Running as fast as he could, he shifted to raven to get away, but he was swapped back to the ground. Just as the hooded man bent to grab him he woke shivering in his cell. He sighed his relief that it was just a dream and realized he could see. There was light in his cell now. Trip peeked out to see if the hooded man was still there. He didn't see anything so he crawled out from under the cot and looked around. The light was coming from a window high in the wall above his cot. Trip climbed up on the cot to try and look out but it was to high. Shifting was his next thought but the wards on the cell kept him from using magic. He sat back down sadly wishing Reno and Zarin were there to help him. Where were they he wondered. They had to be out there looking for him. Thalia and Reno were worried to death he was sure. And Professor Insa, as his guardian he had to be tearing up Winterhaven looking for him.
Suddenly he heard something. He looked around again. It was sobbing. Someone was crying. Trip stood and walked to the bars of his cell. The crying was coming from the cell across from him. He looked in and saw a young blond boy. A gypsy dressed in warm cotton pants, a light dirty white shirt and a colorful gypsy vest huddled in the corner crying.
"Hello?" He called hoping he would answer.
The crying stopped and the boy got up and walked to the cell door..
"Who are you?" The boy asked.
"My name is Trip." He said. "Who are you?"
"My names Rese." He sobbed. "Rese Padescu. I have to get out of here. Can you help me?"
"Sorry Rese. I'm a prisoner too." Trip told him. "How did you end up here?"
"I was traveling with my family to Winterhaven to study healing magic." Rese slumped down at his cell bar while he told Trip what happened to him. "My family was attacked by this huge dog thing on our way in. My family was killed!!"
Rese began sobbing again. Trip could hear the pain pouring out from him. He didn't know what to say. He remembered the day Reno's family was slaughtered, and his was turned to stone. He missed them so much. That was one of the reasons he had agreed to come to Winterhaven. He hoped to find a spell that would restore them. But Insa had explain, ever if he could turn them back, their stone bodies now had cracks in them. They would die in horrible pain the minute they were restored. He cried his heart out that day in his best friends arms. So now his friends were his family. Hopefully they would find him soon.
"I'm so sorry Rese." Trip told him. "I know how you feel. My families gone too. But we're not. We have to survive. Tell me how you got here. It might help get us out."
"I ran into the forest running from that thing." He said. "I didn't know where I was going until I saw a man carrying something. I followed him hoping he was going into Winterhaven. But he wasn't. He was coming here, to this place. He saw me and used his magic on me. When I woke up, I was in here."
"Did you see this place from outside." Trip asked getting a little excited.
"Yes."
"Where are we?" He asked. "And you sound pretty young. How old are you?"
"In some kind of private estate I think." Rese's crying had stopped. This was good Trip thought. He had gotten his mind off what happened to his parents. "And I'm thirteen on my last birthday. Old enough for the academy now."
"What did it look like out there?" Trip just wanted to keep him talking and his mind occupied.
"Well." He said. "It's a run down villa behind a tall wall. It looked like it would have been beautiful in its day. Now the walls falling in places and parts of the building is crumbling. I could see it once had a tower, but it fell some time ago. The place just looked old and run down."
"Did you see the face of who put you in here?" This was the most important question Trip could ask. Who's keeping them here. Was it Tabor's father?
"No. I didn't see the mans face at all." He said. "I'm sorry."
"It's alright." Trip tried to reassure him. "My friends are looking for me. They'll save us. I promise you that."
"It doesn't matter." Rese whimpered. "I have no where to go now."
"You can come with us." Trip didn't want him to start crying again. He had to keep his mind from giving up. " Me and most of my friends are orphans to. We take care of each other. We'll take care of you too. Just don't give up Rese. Please don't."

It was the middle of the day as Tabor walked down the halls of the Academy looking for Aron and Elan. He had work to do and he needed help. This was the time of day when they would usually be in the one class they hated most. Magical history. They didn't care much about how things happened in the past. They found it useless. He hurried to the second floor and looked into Professor Edgar's class. There they were in the back looking bored. He opened the door and went in. The class all looked up at him.
"Professor." He said. "Elan and Aron are needed by Professor Shyer in ancient languages. He sent me to get them."
Professor Edgar didn't trust Tabor. He knew these were his two friends. But to call him a liar would offend his father and he didn't dare do that.
"Take them." He said. "They're failing anyway."
The two elves grabbed their things smiling and followed him out sneering at the class. Once in the hall they stopped him.
"Professor Syn doesn't want us. Does he?" Aron asked.
"Of course not idiot." He said. " Have you seen Zarin today?"
"No." Elan shook his head. "I haven't seen any of them all day and Aron is not an idiot."
"We have to find them." Tabor said ignoring Elan's outburst. "Somethings up."
"What?" Elan asked annoyed. "And why would you care if they dropped off the planet?"
"I don't but they have the ring!" Tabor shouted at them. "And we still need it!"
"You know, I haven't seen Craven today either." Aron started for the transport stone to begin their search. Tabor reached out and grabbed him.
"What?"
"Craven." He said. "He didn't show up for class. We thought maybe he was with you."
"I haven't seen him since we left the harbor." Tabor thought for a moment. "You know, he told me he had some kind of plan."
"Craven?" Elan laughed. "A plan? That idiot?"
"Craven's not as dumb at you think he is." Tabor narrowed his eyes at them. "He's passing his classes. Are you? Either of you?"
"Some of them." Aron looked smugly at him.
"Not the important ones." Aron started to say something, but Tabor stopped him. "We have to find him and Zarin. And we have to find them now. Come on."
"What about the ring?" Elan asked following Tabor to the exit stone.
"It's here in this city. My father wants it, so I want it." Tabor stepped up to the stone. "Find me someone that can find what we need. Either the ring or Zarin."
With a wave of his hand he activated the stone and disappeared. Elan and Aron walked over to the stone to leave.
"I don't like him." Aron said. "And I'm sick of him treating me like an idiot."
"I don't like it either." Elan said. "But we won't have to take it to much longer."
"We need someone that can track them." Aron told his friend.
"Or someone sensitive enough with magic to find the ring." Elan nodded. "But then the ring would have to be so powerful, a lot of people here would feel it. We should try and find Zarin or one of the others."
"But how?" Aron asked. "How do we find them?"
" How about a vampire hunter." Elan's eyes brightened. " Thalia's a vampire. Maybe we could track her. It's worth trying."
"Do we really want to get involved in this?" Aron asked. "Can't we just get away from Tabor and his father?"
"Just help me for now please."

Dressed in his dark hooded robe, Craven paced back and forth in the old study of the villa. He had done the first part of his plan and captured Trip. He knew Trip had to be the one that had the ring. Now all he had to do was get him to tell him where it was. That would be the hard part. He just might have to torture him for the information. Could he do it? He wasn't sure he could. Yes, he had been a bully at school. But he only did it to fit in with Tabor. He hated being cruel like that to anyone.
He remember how it had been back in Leban his old home before his parents moved them to Winterhaven. Magic was frowned on there. And when his abilities began to manifest he tried his best to hide them.
One day at school he was in the library studying Leban history. He had to write a short essay on one of the kings of Leban and he had been assigned King Turo. Hundreds of years ago, King Turo hated magic because of a curse placed on him by a mage he had crossed. Everyone in Leban thought Turo was doing right by burning the mage. But Craven learned he had actually cheated the mage. He had asked the mage for his help in defeating his enemies to acquiring the kingdom. The mage agreed to help and gave Turo a sword that was impossible to beat. After a long battle when Turo and his blade killed all his opposition. Turo won. But he never had any intentions on fulfilling his promise to the mage. Instead he had him arrested as a heretic and sentenced him to burn to quiet him. Unfortunately for Turo, It didn't quiet him at all. Instead it gave him the chance to cast his strongest spell ever. It was a curse cast on Turo and all his descendants. Since then Leban housed a curse. It was in the royal family and not many knew about. But they did know about the murders that happened every ten years. Turo killed ten men that opposed his reign. Ten enemies. Every ten years since the mage died. Ten men died a horrible death. There was never any evidence as to who was committing these murders and nobody really looked that close into them. But Craven knew who the killer was, and it scared him. The mages curse turned Turo and one of his male descendants into murderers.
This was knowledge only the royal family knew. So how did Craven know? It wasn't in any books. No one had ever written anything about this. So how did Craven know? The mage was Mica Tasco, Craven's great descendant. And sometimes he talked to his grand descendant. He told him his father would be next to die. Just as Turo talked to his descendant. He advised him whispering in his ear at night. He told him a name. Tasco.
So the Tasco's ran, for they knew what would happen if they stayed in Leban. But that changed Craven. For the first time in his life he was scared. He knew there was a chance they might be discovered one day and he wanted to protect his family. So in Winterhaven he studied magic. He wasn't brilliant but he learned as best he could. Then he met Tabor who promised him power. Just what he needed to protect them. Even though grandfather had told him of the Larin's evil, something made Craven ignored him and became one of Tabor's crew of bullies. Now here he was a kidnapper about to torture someone to help someone as evil as those he hid from. Craven sank into his chair with his head in his hand.
[Grand father.] He called in his mind. [What have I done?]
[You let your fear and anger consume you my son.] Mica answered. [And that was all they needed to use you. Tayor and Tabor have spelled you to follow them. Your crime has broken the spell at last.]
[But I'm responsible for this. Not Tabor.] Craven stood from his chair and walked around. [How do I fix this?]
[Not true. They're responsible too, you just can't see it. You have to free them and get them home.] His long gone ancestor told him. [And help stop the Larin's from taking over Winterhaven.]
Craven stopped and thought about what he had just been told. He knew his forefather was right. He had to get Trip back home to his friends and hope he could forgive him for his crime.

Unknown to Craven, there was a problem. He was not alone at the villa. A group of Orcs, members of Polan Dressak's Black Armors had been hiding out in the villa just happen to be coming back from hunting when Craven brought his captives to their prison. They saw them and thought they would make a much better meal then the two wolves the had caught. From the forest edge they watched the villa waiting to see if more men would make their way there. Once they felt it was safe, the three Orcs crept closer. There were four warriors in the group and one Orc mage. All four warriors still in Polan's black armor and the mage in black robes. Yes, Orcs had magic too. Not many could yield it, but a few did have the gift. As Orcs they all had long canines that extended over their upper lips and hairless heads. they stood as tall as men and were broad in the chest except Gorak who was much smaller then his companions.
Slowly they moved forward readying their weapons. Their mouths watered at the thought of the meal waiting in the old place.
Suddenly, Gorak held his hand up to stop them. He felt something strange. Strange, but familiar.
His two companions tried to push past him but Gorak's hand radiated with power that burned them.
"Are you mad?" Skang asked as he huffed himself up. "Can't you smell the meat in there?"
"Meats not all I sense." Gorak moved his hand in front of him in the air. "There's magic in there."
"There was always magic in there, damn you!" Zark walked around him and started for the hole in the wall. Gorak stopped him.
"That is not what I mean." He told them. "Whoever is in there has magic. Powerful magic. So if you want to just storm in, go ahead. You will be the meat in our pot."
Zark stopped and turned back to them. He knew better then to doubt Gorak's magic. He had kept them hidden this long, and as much as Zark hated him, he still needed him to get them back to Ardia. Then he could killed the fool.
"What do you suggest?" He asked.
"I've studied the runes that make up the magic in there." Gorak told them. "The spells are to inhibit magic use. If I can make amulets or some kind of collars. We can catch them."
"Then we eat." Skang smiled his savage grin and rubbed his hands together.
"No, were not eating them." Gorak readied a spell in his mind to cast in case his companions decided to attack him. He saw Zark's hand go to his sword and Skang tense himself for an attack. "I have a better use for them."
"You think to much." Zark said. "If we are not going to eat them, then what"
"We use them to get home." Gorak said. "They could make good hostages. Then we eat them. Have the others watch the forest. We could have company any minute"
With that, all three Orcs started laughing.

The Search for Trip. 5

Early the next morning Zarin grabbed his stuff and quickly ran out pass his bewildered parents.
"ZARIN!!" His father called him back. Zarin stopped and walked back in smiling at them.
"Where are you going in such a hurry." Lowell Testa asked his son.
"Sorry, dad." Zarin kissed his mom. "Trip was missing last night. I'm in a hurry to find out if Reno found him."
"Oh dear!." His mother Lisette said looking worried. "I hope he's ok. I know how well he takes care of him."
"You think we need to get the guards on this?" Lowell asked worried. "I can organize something to help."
"I'll let you know." Zarin told them." But I have to get going."
"Be careful!" His mother called after him
Zarin ran off out the door. As he reached the street, he found Reno and Thalia waiting for him.
"You didn't find him." Zarin frowned. "My dad wants to call the guards in to look for him."
"We don't think that's going to help." Reno said. He sat on the wall and looked up the lane. Dack was running towards then.
"So what happened?" He stopped in front of them breathing hard. Thalia waved them all closer.
"We searched the whole city." She told them. "Everywhere but in peoples homes. We would need the councils approval for that."
"What about Tabor's manor?" Dack asked.
"We couldn't get near the place." Reno said. "To much magic guarding the house."
"Then that's it." Dack's eyes lit up."That's where he is. We should have known Tabor took him to get the ring back"
"We can't prove that Dack." Thalia grabbed her school bag and looked at the others ready to get going. Reno, Dack and Zarin shoulder their bags and followed her down the lane away from Zarin's house.
"So what are we going to do?" Dack asked. "Just go to school? We have to find Trip."
"Relax Dack." Zarin looked around at his friends. "Trip is more important then school. We'll find him and soon."
Zarin turned to Reno and Thalia. "Thalia, you don't think he's been taken to Tabor's right?"
"Reno and I don't think so." She said looking at Reno for his agreement. He nodded. "We don't think he's in Winterhaven. We think he's been taken out of the city. We tracked his scent as far as we could until at just vanished."
"Was that anywhere near Tabor's house?" Zarin asked.
"No." Reno said. "His scent ended behind a shop on the boulevard. From there we searched the city and found nothing. Not a single scent or clue."
"Then where?" Dack asked. "If he's not in the city, what's left?"
"Outside the city walls." Zarin had that look of discovery on his face. "The underground! Did you check there?"
Reno and Thalia smiled at him. Zarin had come to the same conclusion they had.
"No. We were waiting for the two of you so we could go together."
"Then let's get going." Dack smiled at his friends anxious to go find his Trip.
"Hold on all of you." Zarin stopped. "If we're not going to school Professor Insa's going to look for us. I think we should tell him what's going on."
"So do I." Reno told them. "He is our legal guardian after all."
"And he can investigate the Larin's." Thalia's eyes brightened at that thought. "But if we go to the school, they'll make us stay. We can't do that."
"Don't worry. I can inform the Professor without going in." Zarin turned up the lane that went to Shayn's place. "We'll leave our bags at Shayn's and head underground from there. Come on."
Together they ran towards their hideout to stash there things. In his mind Zarin called out to the Professor.
[Professor!] He called
[Zarin.] Came the answer. [You're late. You have class in just a few minutes. Where are you?]
[Professor, Trip is missing.] Zarin sent to him. [We think he's been taken by the Larin's to get that ring back.]
[I knew this was going to become an issue. How can I help?]
[Can you search the Larin's manor?] Zarin asked.
[Not without some kind of proof he's involved.] Professor Insa told him. [He's a councilor of the highest rank. The best I can do is ask him and see how he reacts. But that will let him know somethings wrong, if he's not guilty. Do we want that?]
[We have to know if he has Trip.] Zarin know they had to take the chance. [Talk to him. We're going to look for him. If we find any thing I'll let you know.]
[Be careful. And bring Trip home.]
[We will Professor.]

It didn't take them long to find an entrance to the city sewer system. The smell from all the garbage was overwhelming coming from the gates. Reno stepped up to the gate and rattled the chain on the gate. He whispered a spell and began to twist. Heat flowed from his hand into the lock making it soft and malleable. It broke off in his hand and he dropped it as the gate swung open.
"Can you find a scent over all this smell?" Zarin asked.
Reno took a few sniffs of the air as his form became more wolf like. His ears perked up as he found a scent.
"I smell him." He said. "He was down here. He went that way."
Reno took off into the sewers with the others following him. Quickly they moved through the tunnels taking turns and running threw ankle deep water. They ran for a time until Reno lost the scent then they walked. Less then an hour later Reno found the scent again and was off. Soon the smell of fresh cool air began to hit them. They looked ahead and saw the sunlight coming from outside. They slowed as the came to the end of the tunnel and a broken gate.
"This is how he was taken out of the city." Thalia said stepping through the gate. Outside they found the forest in front of them. Large trees, grasses and wild animals. This was the first time Dack had been outside of the city other then the trip to Lands End. He looked around amazed at the sights of the forest.
Reno stepped up beside him and put his hand on his shoulder. Dack looked at him in wonder.
"I know this is all new to you." Reno said still in his wolfen form. "But Trip is still out there somewhere. We have to keep moving.
"OK." He nodded. "I'm with you."
"He went this way." Reno pointed walking on.
"Was he alone?" Zarin asked.
"No, he wasn't." Reno sniffed the air again to assure himself of the direction to go and Trips scent. "I don't know the other scent. Its familiar but strange. Somethings masking it."
"Whoever it is knew we would track him this way." Zarin said. "They know we're coming I think."
"Then lets not disappoint them." Thalia joined Reno and waved them on. "Let's find Trip."
Once outside the sewers they looked back at the high walls of Winterhaven. They could see the guards patrolling at the top. Zarin told them to keep close to the wall so they would not be seen.
"Where are we going?" Dack asked keeping close to Zarin.
"There are a few small villages and villas out here." Zarin told them. "The villagers hunt for Winterhaven and the villas are private homes of some of our citizens."
"Does Tabor's family have one?" Thalia asked.
"That's a good question." Zarin said. "I don't know, maybe. I guess we'll see."
"Shh!!!" Reno held up his hand to stop then. He had heard something in the distance. He sniffed the air to try and see if he could recognize the scent.
"What is it?" Thalia whispered moving closer to Reno.
"We're not alone out here." He said. "We may be in trouble."
"What is it?" Dack asked a little worried. They all looked around trying to locate what was crashing through the forest towards them. Zarin and Dack readied themselves for a fight as a great Garmr broke through the trees howling at them. It was a monstrous hound confronting them snarling with red eyes blazing.
"Everyone get back!!" Reno yelled.
He took a fighting stance as the beast charged him. Zarin let loose a stunning spell that the Garmr just shook off and kept coming. It snapped at Reno as he jumped to the side missing him by inches. Dack sent a spell of darkness at it. The Garmr howled shaking its head trying to find them in the dark. Reno leaped on its back striking at its head again and again. Pushing itself up on its hind legs it dislodged him from its back knocking him to the ground. Quickly Reno rolled away as it dropped back down to crush him. Plunging forward, the Garmr swung its head blindly knocking Dack into the brush. Thalia ran to him casting a protective shield around them as the beast paw smacked at them.
"Reno!" Zarin called. "My stun wasn't strong enough. We'll do it together. On the count of three. One, Two, Three!!"
Together the two cast their spell on the enraged beast striking it in the head. It howled in pain as it fell to the ground and stopped moving. Zarin ran to Thalia and Dack and helped them to their feet while Reno checked on the Garmr. It's was still and it's breathing was deep.
"Are you alright?" He asked.
"We're fine." Dack said brushing himself off. "Thalia saved me. Thank you."
"I couldn't let it hurt my little brother." She smiled. "Did you kill it?"
"No." Reno walked over to them. "But we should get out of her. It won't be out for long."
"Then let's go." Zarin said. "There's a village close to here. That will be a good place to start looking."
"Yeah, its creepy out here." Dack walked beside Zarin. He put his arm around his shoulder comforting his best friend. Dack thought it was funny but he always felt so warm when he touched Zarin.
"You're doing fine." Zarin told him. "That darkness spell saved all of us. Just everybody stay close. You never know what will come out of this forest."

Sitting at the head of the council table, Insa listened to the arguments made by various members on different issues. They were all minor unimportant issues, but Insa tried to keep his mind on what they were saying. But it wasn't easy. He was worried about his three wards and his two favorite students. They where out there somewhere in who knows what kind of trouble.
 He looked across the table to see Tayor looking back at him. Tayor might know what kind of trouble they where in. Insa sat forward and stared back at the dark mage. He was hoping his dragon could sense what he was thinking. He sent has senses across the table at Tayor trying to enter his mind.
[Your wasting your time Insa.] He heard in his mind. [You'll never read me.]
[Where are they?] He sent.
[I have no idea who your talking about.] Tayor smiled. [Is someone missing?]
[If any of those children are hurt.] Insa thundered in his mind. I will not rest until you and your family are driven from Winterhaven in disgrace. I will make sure you and Tabor's magic is bound and your estates are confiscated. I promise you, I WILL DESTROY YOU!!]
Tayor's face showed fear for the first time. He got up from his chair knocking it over and stormed from the council chamber. Everyone looked at him as he left.
"Is something wrong?" Councilman Hamil asked.
"No." Insa told them. "Is there anymore important business to discuss today?"
" No, But there's someone waiting to see you in your office." Hamil told him.
He got up with the rest of the council and left. Insa sat for a minute. He couldn't get Trip off his mind. He was thinking he should be out there looking for him with Zarin and Reno. But he know he needed to keep an eye on Tayor. He was very dangerous and there was no telling what he might do. Especially now that he's been threatened. Tayor would push forward whatever plan he's been working on. Insa just had to learn what that plan was.
Rising from his chair, Insa gathered his paperwork and left the chamber. His office was on the top floor of the council building. He walked to the window and shifted to smoke and flowed out and up into the outer chamber of his office. Sitting behind her desk, his secretary and elder elven woman dressed in her green clan colors watched as he reformed.
"Shera." He smiled handing her his notes from the meeting. "I hear I have guest."
"Yes. I sat them in your office and served them tea." Shera turned to the serving table and whispered a spell. Fire ignited under the tea pot as she readied the sugar and lemon. "I'll have your tea ready shortly. I'll bring it in for you."
"Thank you Shera." Insa walked to his door, opened it and went in. Waiting for him in his office was two young men that were very familiar to him. He smiled as Azeal Zlenka and Tanis Gaelich stood to greet him.
"What are you two doing here?" Insa hugged Azeal then Tanis. "I thought you Azeal were with your father rebuilding Vasagi. And you were suppose to be in Prafa."
"We were." Azeal said sitting back down. "But father thinks the future king of Vasagi needs more schooling. Of course I disagree."
Insa laughed. "And you?"
"Same story." Tanis told him. "Jandar convinced my mother that you could help with my magic. But I don't need magic. I do fine as I am."
"I see." Insa leaned back in his chair.  A moment later Shera came in and served him his tea.
"Thank you Shera." She nodded and left the room. "Boys, they're right. Azeal, as the future king you'll need training in diplomacy and strategy, etiquette and history. You've learned a lot from Valkar, but there's so much more. That's why he sent you here."
"I guess." The young vampire said slumping in his chair.
"And you, Tanis." He looked to the handsome youth next to somber Azeal. "With all the magic in your family, is there any doubt you possess strong magic too? You just don't know now to access it. We can teach you how to unlock your magic. Just trust us."
"I don't really have a choice." Tanis frowned. "Do I?"
"Yes you do. If you don't want to learn." Insa told him. "Don't waste my time. I have enough on my mind with a missing student and dark mages trying to turn Winterhaven into their own private kingdom."
Insa climbed to his feet and walked to the window. He stared out forgetting his guest for a time. Tanis and Azeal looked each other puzzled at Insa's behavior. They both could tell he was worried. Maybe they had arrived just in time to help.
"Professor." Insa turned back to them. "I think you should tell us exactly what's going on here."

Craven's Plot. 4

"Where's the ring?" Tayor asked his son. "They didn't have it. Where's the damned ring. I need it!!"
"I don't know father." Tabor sat on the other side of his father's desk in his study surrounded by his tombs of dark magic. His father was angry he had failed him. Now all his plans were ruined. Tabor knew he had to get that ring back if he ever wanted to be respected or at his father's side again.
"I don't care what you have to do." Tayor fumed at him. "I don't care if you have to torture them. But you better get it back, and soon."
"I will." Tabor got up from his chair and went to the door.
"Tabor." He stopped him. "That ring will still work. Once your near it, it will glow. Now get out."
Looking at the ground in shame, Tabor opened the door and left. Out in the common room Aron and Elan waited for him. They stood as he approached them.
"We heard him yelling from here." Elan said.
"I've never seen him this mad at me. We have to find that ring fast."
"How?" Aron asked as the left the Larin manor. "You thought the mine was big, Winterhaven is a hell of a lot bigger."
"I know that, damn it!" Tabor looked around the street they were on. All the shops were still open late in the afternoon. Dealers of magic items, hardware and potions seemed to be having a good night."
"It has to be them." Tabor told them. "I don't know how they got rid of the ring, but they have it. We watch them, then take it from them. Elan, you watch Zarin. Aron, watch Dack."
"Right Tabor." The two elves headed off to start then assignments when Tabor stopped them
"First get me Craven. " He turned back to his home. "I think he could be the answer."

Zarin walked along the first floor corridor past empty classrooms and study hall. There were practice rooms and testing areas all empty of students now. Zarin made his way to the end of the hall were the transport stones were located.
"Prof Insa's study." power flashed around him and he found himself standing on the stone just in the entrance to his study. Zarin stepped in to find Professor Insa standing at the window.
"Professor?"
"Come in Mr. Testa." He turned and sat at his desk. "Have a seat."
Zarin walked in looking around. This wasn't his first visit to this office. His office walls behind his desk was lined with books of magic and history. Zarin loved reading in here. He remember his first visit when he and his parents first came to this amazing city. How the professor had been his personal tutor to teach him the basic. Zarin had learned fast and Professor Insa had praised him high for it. Soon he was in classes and his family settle in there house. His father had been givin a job in the city guard where he rose to a captains position and his mother became a teacher in the none magical school. Life here became very good for them until Tabor Larin decided to make him his target.
Tabor bullied many kids in the academy and made many enemies. He treated everyone like the academy was his own personal kingdom and he was lord and master to them all, just because he was from one of the riches families in Winterhaven. He put them all through hell with beatings to harassing and stupid tricks. The only relief Zarin found was when he met Prince Shayn and his best friend Dack. They band together for protection. Two years later Reno, Thalia and Trip came along after Andros their home had been conquered by the evil Mahlos. But that's another story for another time. As time went by the six friends became inseparable. They watched each others back and protected each other. Tabor found it much harder to attack or hurt any of them because none of them ever traveled alone. Tabor's treatment of the students was known to the academy administration and he was punished often. But it did no good. That was the kind of person Tabor was and he was encouraged by his father. It seemed Tayor's creed was fear. As long as his son was feared he would be respected. The teachers tried hard to show him that fear was no way to gain respect. Only kindness, fairness, and compassion could really get him the respect of others, but that was not the Larin way. Only ambition, distrust and power ruled the house of Larin. So Tabor followed his father in his devious plots to gain control of Winterhaven, no matter what the cost.

"Professor." Zarin sat straight up in his chair. "You want to ask me about this ring Mr. Larin said we took."
"Yes I do." The Professor looked at him wondering what was in his mind.
"We didn't take anything from Tabor that belonged to him or his father." Zarin told him. "And we would never do anything to disrespect you or the council, that I promise you."
Professor Insa sat back in his chair and contemplated his favorite student. "I didn't think you did. And I get the feeling you would rather not answer any more questions about this. Am I right?"
"Yes sir."
"I trust you Zarin." The Professor told him. "But if this his anything to do with Tayor Larin, I think you should let me know. He's not to be trusted. Neither is Tabor. If this gets out of hand, promise you will come to me."
"I promise sir." Zarin got up from his chair to leave smiling at his mentor.
"Zarin." He stopped him. "If you need me, just call out in your mind. I'll answer, anytime you need me."
"Thank you Professor." Zarin smiled at him as he left his office.
Professor Insa stood from his chair and walked over to a table where in the middle was a large shard of a smoky crystal. It was a piece of shell from the egg his dragon had hatched from. He smiled as he passed his hand over it. Pictures began to reflect on the table. He saw Trip in his raven form fly from the Golden Goblin. He was carrying something shiny in his beak. Insa made the picture clearer. It was a gold ring. Exactly what Tayor was looking for. Insa knew Zarin wouldn't lie to him so he knew the ring didn't belong to Tayor. It must be something of power he wanted and Zarin took it to keep from him. He watch as Trip hid the ring in a place no one would ever look for it. Folding his arms as he sat, he decided he'd better keep an eye on Zarin. He would need his help before long. Tayor and Tabor would stop at nothing to get that ring. He wonder what it was.

It was late at night and Tryphen Tricolos hurried his way through the quiet streets of Winterhaven. He was late to meet Zarin and the others at there meeting place. Prince Shayn's old house. Together they had cast spells on the house to keep anyone from seeing them enter or exit. There were also spells to cloak the fact that anyone was using the house. They had made the place safe from prying eyes and certain people looking for them.
Walking down the cobblestone road, Trip was lost in his thoughts. He was a little tired from his earlier flight and the trip to Lands End today. As he made his way down the street, he thought he heard something behind and stopped to have a look. Looking left and right he didn't see anything, but he had the feeling someone was there. He moved on a little more quietly keeping his ear tuned for the slightest sound. He heard the wind rustling through the trees. He heard a stray cat searching through the garbage across the street. Then he heard it again and spun around for a look. Still nothing.
"I must be losing it." He said aloud.
Suddenly a bag dropped over his head and someone hit him, knocking him out. No one saw Craven as he dragged Trip from the street into the darkness. But someone would miss him very soon. But could they find him?

It was getting late and Trip still hadn't arrived yet. Reno was pacing back and forth wondering where he was. He had gone out and looked for him but found nothing. He had even shifted to wolf and looked for a scent. It went as far as a store on the boulevard, then vanished in an alley. This scared Reno a bit. But Trip could have shifted and flew off. So Reno returned to Shayn's place to see if he was there. He wasn't.
"Where could he be?" Reno asked his friends. "I looked everywhere and nothing."
"I don't like this." Thalia got up from her seat and went to Reno. "Somethings not right. Trip knows we're waiting and he wouldn't make us wait like this."
"I agree." Zarin told them heading for the transport point. "I think we should go look for him."
"Not you and Dack." Reno stopped him. "It's pretty late. Your parents will be worried if your not home soon. Thalia and I can look."
Thalia nodded. Dack protested, he wanted to know where his friend was too. He looked at Reno ready to argue with him. Zarin held up his hand to stop him.
"He's right. My mom and dad would be pretty upset." He said. "And yours will call out the guards to find us."
"I guess your right." Dack kicked over a chair in frustration. "But you better let me know the second you find him."
"We will." Thalia said. "We'll walk you both home. Lets get going."

After walking Zarin and Dack home, Reno and Thalia shifted to wolf and searched the city. They checked every part of the Academy grounds including classes, labs and dormitories. They searched the playing fields where Witch ball was played and the practice fields where dueling and power ball was practiced. Nothing. Then they moved on to the city proper. Where from street to street they went sniffing for Trips scent. Reno and Thalia then moved to the docks and search every ship moored there. Still no luck. Now they were really worried. Next came the residential areas. They couldn't go house to house, not without the approval of the council. But they could check the outsides to see if he'd been there. Still nothing. Next came the manses of the rich and nobles which included Tabors home. Thalia used a spell to cause all wards and magical traps and alarms to become visible before they came close to the manor. As her spell took affect they made their to the gate. Reno sighed. There was no way in he could see. Even shifting to something that could fly wouldn't get them in. The air crackled with magic. One step in and they would be incinerated.
"This could be it." Reno whispered to Thalia. "But it will take better magic then I have to get us in."
"I don't think he's here." She frowned and folded her arms across her chest.
"Why not?" Reno asked. "Tabor hates us and wants that ring."
"I know." She said. "But if we went to Professor Insa, they would be caught."
"They could be hiding him in there." Reno wanted to inspect the manse. He was all for calling the Professor.
"They couldn't hide him from the Professor. She said. "And if Trip was found in there, Tayor would be dispelled from the council. He wouldn't take that chance. He's evil, not stupid."
"Then where?" Reno asked. He was beginning to get really mad now. "We've checked the whole city."
"No, we haven't." Thalia looked at her friend. "We've searched the city, but we haven't searched under the city."
Reno's eyes flew open in surprise. "The sewers!!"

The first thing Trip felt when he woke was pain stabbing into his mind. He moaned and opened his eyes to total darkness. He got to his feet and snapped his fingers to summon a light orb. Nothing happened. Trip closed his eyes and concentrated on a stronger spell. He clapped his hands and a light flashed before him revealing a dungeon cell furnished with nothing but a cot and a bucket for private use.
"This isn't good." Trip mumbled. He made his way over to the cot and sat down. His magic wasn't working right. That could only mean one thing. Wherever he was, the place was guarded with some powerful magic. The fact that he made the light flash meant that the spells on the cell were old and failing. If he gathered enough magic, he might be able to do something in time. He just might be here for a little while. Suddenly he heard a noise from outside of the cell. It was the sound of a door slamming. Then he heard heavy footsteps moving towards him.
"Who's there?" Trip called.
"Where is it?" Came back.
"Where's what?" He answered. Trip moved to the cell bars trying to figure out who it was out there.
"Where is it?"
"You can ask that question all day." Trip said. "But I don't know what your talking about."
A flash of energy came flying into the cell and struck Trip knocking him back to the wall.
"WHERE IS IT?" The voice yelled.
Getting to his feet Trip staggered to the cot and crawled underneath it hoping he could fine a little protection there. He knew what it was they wanted. He even thought he knew who was out there torturing him. but he'd be damned if he would tell them where the ring was.
"You can shock me. Torture me all you want." He called out. "But I don't know what you want, and if I did, I still wouldn't tell you Mr. Larin."
"We'll see." Another bolt of energy flew into the cell striking the wall as Trip screamed out and covered his head in fear.

Home Trip. 3

Once back with the crowd, Craven realized what he had done. Tabor was beyond angry with him. He was furious. He would have to face his father and tell him he had failed. Craven knew it was all his fault. Zarin had outsmarted him again. He was so mad at himself. He had to find a way to make up for his failure or Tabor would out him from his group of friends. Already he refused to talk with him and made him walk behind them. Craven wasn't exactly the brains of the group and he didn't come from one of the most influential of families. All he had was his magical talent and what wits he could summon. Would it be possible for him to get the ring back from them? Or should he just find some other way of taking his revenge? Magically, he was no match for Zarin and physically, he couldn't match Reno. But maybe there was away. The weakest one of the group would be his target. Trip. He had no family in Winterhaven like Zarin and Dack. Trip had come with Reno from Andros, a country far away from Winterhaven. Not very much was known about Andros, except that it had been overthrown by a mage named Mahlos, and the royal family had been killed. Reno was supposed to be a cousin to Prince Shayn so Craven guessed it was possible he had belonged to the Andros royal family. Trip was Reno's best friend very good with his magic. But magic wouldn't be enough to save him if Craven could do this right. He smiled as his thoughts begin to come together into a plan. He decided to work alone. That way there would be no one but himself to blame if the thing went wrong. but he knew he would have to tell Tabor.

As they boarded the Golden Goblin to return to Winterhaven, Craven went to talk to Tabor. He found him alone on deck stewing over his failure.
"Tabor," he said. "I need to talk to you."
"Haven't you done enough already?" He turned from his ex-friend.
"I screwed up bad I know," Craven said.  But what if I can get the ring back?"
"Then you will be my second again." Tabor turned to look at him. "What do you have planned?"
"To get the ring back." He turned and walked off. "By myself."

"You should have seen us, Thalia." Reno patted Dack on his back. "If Dack's spell had affected you, you would have thought we were Tabor, Aron, and Elan. We had Craven so mad, I thought his head would explode."
Thalia and Trip laughed with the rest of the group. " See, the studying is paying off." She told him.
"What are we going to do with the ring?" Trip asked. Everyone looked at Zarin for the answer.
"I don't know." Zarin shrugged. "I didn't think beyond keeping them from getting it."
"But I just had a thought." Trip said. "What if we get back to Winterhaven and Tayor is waiting at the docks with guards. He could say we stole it from Tabor. What would happen?"
"They would take it from us and give it to him," Reno said. Everyone had a scared look on their face. "I'm sure he could come up with some false proof that it was his ring."
"Then we need to get rid of it." Zarin pulled the ring from his pocket and held it over the side of the ship.
"Wait." Trip stopped him. "I could fly it back and return before we dock. No evidence, no charges. Besides, If we don't have the ring, Professor will back us. He knows we wouldn't steal."
"But we did steal it," Dack told them.
"No, not really." Thalia stopped Dack. "If it belonged in the mine, it would have been detected by the magic of the dwarves and the mine. We never would have made it out with it in our pocket."
Zarin handed the ring to Trip. "Go, and get back fast."
Trip popped it in his mouth then looked around to be sure no one was watching. Then he climbed on the rail and dived off. Shifting in the air he took off on the winds and sped for Winterhaven.
A few minutes late Tabor and the Elves walked over to confront them
"What do you want?" Zarin asked.
"You know what I want." Tabor spat at them. "Give it to me now and save yourself from the city dungeons."
"We don't know what you're talking about," Zarin told him as the Elves stepped upon him. Reno and Dack stood with Zarin.
"You know what I'm talking about. You have the ring." Elan reached for Zarin's bag.
"Touch that bag, and I'll rip off your arm and beat you with it." Reno took Zarin's bag from him.
"Why don't you trolls get lost." Walking out in front of Tabor, Thalia frowned at them. "We didn't do anything to you, so get away from us."
"LIARS!!" Tabor's face turned red as he screamed at them. He raised his hands focused on a spell.
"Mr. Larin don't you dare!!" In an explosion of smoke, Professor Insa appeared between them smoke rising all around him. "What is the meaning of this!!"
"They took something of mine!" Tabor shouted. "And I want it back!"
Professor Insa turned to Zarin and his friends. "Is this true Mr. Testa?"
"We don't have anything that belongs to them, Professor."
"He's lying!" Elan reached again for Zarin's bag. Reno pulled away snarling at Elan. "Search them, you'll find it."
"Can I see the bag Mr. Andropolos?" Prof Insa held out his hand.
"Of course you can." Reno handed the bag over to him and stood with his friend. Prof. Insa opened the bag and went through it.
"What exactly am I looking for in here?" He asked.
Zarin smiled at Tabor.
"Yeah, Tabor. What did we steal from you? Was it expensive?"
Aron started to say something when Tabor shot him a look. He knew if the Professor found the ring, he'd know what it was. Tabor couldn't have that. He could wait until the ship docked and his father was there.
"Never mind Professor." He turned to walk off.
"Mr. Larin!" Prof Insa called him. "Don't you think you owe them an apology?"
"HUMPH!!" Tabor and his friends all stormed to the other side of the boat.
"What was that all about," Prof Insa asked them. "Did something happen while I was away?"
"No," Zarin told him. "We had an interesting tour of the mine. Dack didn't feel well, so we let him get some rest.Tabor's a jerk. Other then that, it was fun."
"Yeah." They all echoed Zarin smiling.
Prof Insa looked at them like he suspected they were leaving something out. He looked around for a second.
"Where's Mr. Tricolos?"
"Here!" They heard coming from behind the cabin deck. Trip came out sweeping his jet black hair back from his face. It was wet. They looked at him.
"Big waves up forward. Stay back from the rails up there."
"If you're all OK." Prof Insa turned to go. "I'll go get the others ready to disembark. We're almost home."
"See ya Professor!!' Thalia wave as he left. Once he was gone they all went into the cabin and shut the door.
"That was fast!" Dack brushed feathers from Trip's shoulder. Trip nodded.
"Any problems?" Zarin asked.
"No," He said "But I was right. Tabor's father is waiting at the docks with guards. We'll be searched when we get back."
"You hid the ring?"
"Yeah." Trip said. "They won't find it."
Over at the window, Thalia had been watching to be sure Tabor couldn't spy on them. She saw something that disturbed her.
"Look, everybody." She waved them over.
"What?" Reno asked.
"It's Craven. He's all alone out there. They won't talk to him."
"Of course. Tabor's pretty mad at him." Reno looked out at him. "Not only did he blow it, but he also hit him."
"Don't feel sorry for him." Dack stepped away from the others. " Not after all the bullying, he's done to us. I'm not sorry."
"Dack, he uses to be one of your closest friends." Thalia looked depressed. "How can you stand it?"
"He changed," Dack said. "It was weird."
"You want to go cheer him up," Zarin asked.
She turned to look at them giving them the eye."As if."
"Good." Zarin walked to the door and opened. "We're docking. Come on. Let's get this over with."
Zarin and his friends were the last to leave the ship. As they came down the gangplank they saw Tayor Larin standing there with two city guards and Tabor and his friend. Professor Insa was there arguing with Tayor.
"This is a serious charge your making against my student." He said sternly. "You have proof, I presume?"
"Yes, I do," Tayor said stepping towards them.
"You mind telling me what was stolen?" He stepped in front of Zarin.
"A ring Tabor was wearing." Tayor looked at Zarin. "They attacked him in the mine and took it."
Professor Insa looked at him like he was crazy. He knew better than that. If it was the other way around he might believe it. But no one attacks Tabor as big as he is, and with two or three of his buddies with him. No way.
"Let me get this straight." Professor Insa said to Tayor. "Your saying Zarin and Dack attacked Tabor and robbed him? Is that correct?
"We want to search for them." Tayor said
"Wait a minute." Professor Insa held out his hand to stop him
"No Professor." Zarin stepped over to him. "We didn't take anything from Tabor. They can search for us."
"Inside and out." Tayor smiled.
"Now you wait just one minute." He said angrily. "I won't allow..."
"Inside and out," Zarin said. "We don't have any ring of his."
"Are you sure you want to submit to this?"  Prof Insa asked. "You don't have to."
"We want to prove our innocence," Zarin said as Tayor stepped forward. "But, we want you to do it Professor, not him."
"This is outrageous!!" Tayor yelled. "I have a right to..."
"You have no right to touch or examine these children against their will." Prof Insa had had enough. "I will do it with the guard's presence. Step away Please."
Tayor took another step towards Zarin and the others. Professor Insa held out his hand to stop him.
"Step away!" He said smoke beginning to rise all around him. "Or I will make you step away. Your choice."
Tayor looked deeply in Insa's eyes. The hate they had for each other was almost like something so solid they could beat each other with it. Tayor stepped away and moved Tabor and his friends further up the docks.
Professor Insa turns to Zarin and the others. "This won't hurt at all. If you have anything on you it will show. You ready?"
"Yes, sir." They all said.
"Just line up along the pier here and I'll cast on all of you at once."
Zarin and the others lined up one by one next to each other. Prof Insa stood in front of then and put his hands together. He started a spell in the deep voice they couldn't understand then waved at them. All five kids felt a strangely warm feeling in their bodies. Prof Insa and the guards inspected each of them one by one and found nothing. Not in there clothing or in their bodies.
"Nothing." The guard said. "I'll let Councilman Tayor know we found nothing."
"Good." Prof Insa said. "And get him out of here."
They watched the guards salute then go and talk to Tayor. It didn't look like he took it to well. He was screaming at the poor guards. They saw him start back towards them, but the guards stopped him. He left in frustration. Prof. Insa looked back at them snickering with laughter. He had a serious look on his face.
"Mr. Testa. I will see you in my study in one hour."
"Yes sir." He answered. Prof Insa turned to leave. "Professor?"
He stopped and looked back. "Yes?"
"Am I in trouble?"
"I don't know yet." He grabbed his cloak and spun into a cloud of smoke and disappeared.