Exodus. 15

It was still dark on the streets of Winterhaven as Cutter led Lowell and Lisette Testa through the dark embattled streets. Any time they came near any fighting, Cutter would do what he could to aid on the cities side. Illusion or attacking in his dragon form with Lowell and what guards were with them to help increased their numbers as they moved. Soon they were a group of over twenty moving quickly trying to make it to the Academy and safety. Cloaking the group was impossible now, there were far to many. Cutter could mask them all but it would take more concentration then he could spare right now. Soon the Academy buildings were in site. Cutter called Lowell to him in the front of the group. Looking out, he saw there were three of Tayor's men waiting at the front gate. They would have to be taken care of quietly in order for them to get all of them in.
" How do you want to do this?" Lowell asked. " I could send men out to attack them."
" This has to be quick." Cutter whispered. " Get three men. I'll cloak them as they walk out to engage Tayor's guards. They'll have to kill them fast. No one can get back to report to Tayor or he'll send troops after us."
" I understand." Lowell waved an older soldier over to him and whispered something to him. He nodded and went back and picked two other well armed men and brought them to Cutter.
" They are your targets." He said pointing at the men patrolling at the Academy gates. " They won't see you as you approach or attack if your careful. You have to be silent and attack at the same moment. Count to fifty and and take them out. Understand?"
The three men nodded as Cutter began to concentrate and they faded away. He watched as only he could see through his cloak of illusion as they crept out and moved to their separate targets. Beside him Lowell counted quietly.
" 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50."
As he watched the three men turned and blood erupted from each of their throats and splattered the invisible men that had killed them. Cutter dropped the cloak and the dead men were dragged into the gate as the rest of the group came running in behind them.
" Leave them there in the bushes." Lowell told them waving the others through. Cutter ran ahead and was met at the door by Tanis as he opened it for them. He could see students running in all direction working on different tasks to try and secure their school.
" I'm glad your finally here." The young vampire moved aside to allowed Cutters group to enter. " The schools going crazy preparing for the coming assault."
" I need some help here first." Cutter told him. " Get someone to get these's people food and the wounded treated."
Tanis stopped two running by and gave them orders to fetch Macan the schools master healer and bring him back to the entry hall. Cutter looked around at all the activity and the arrangement. He wanted to know just what had gone on all night while he was gone.
" We evacuated all the younger children and sent them out of the city." Tanis explained as they moved through the halls to the administration office. " The infirmary is ready for casualty's. Macan can treat anything that this battle can throw at us. Let's just hope its not necessary."
" Oh it will be." Lowell told him. " Tayor Larin won't leave this place untouched. This is where some of the most powerful magic in the city is housed. I know he'll want the archives not to mention all the magical artifacts stored in the vaults."
" Well its to late for that." Azeal walked out from the office and shook both Cutter and Lowell's hand. " I sent it all to Settlement with the children. Its just the older students and us to do battle here. I'm hoping we can get more help from the city guards here to help us defend the school."
" Sorry." Lowell stopped him." This is it. This is all that's left of the guards. Tayor hit the barracks right at the guard change last night and captured almost my entire force. We'll have to make do with whats here now."
" Can we get help from Settlement?" Tanis asked.
He opened the door and led them into the office as they talked. Inside the office all the rest of the faculty that wasn't busy out preparing the school for war stood waiting to find out there next move. A group of eight professors and instructors came over to greet then as they entered. Two older men Cutter recognized as council members that served as professors at the Academy, Borin Gaunt the potions master and Sadon Terryn professor of magical lore. It was just their luck to be in the school when Tayor sent out his messages for them to attend his meeting. Luckily they never received those messages or they to would be in his power.
" What's the situation in Winterhaven?" Borin asked Lowell.
" Dire Councilor." The warrior answered. " Tayor Larin organized a coupe to overthrown the council, and it looks like he has succeeded. I'm afraid the city guards are no more."
" Damn his black heart!" Sadon cursed. " What of the council and Insa? Surely they fight him?"
" He has Insa under a dreamweaving spell." Tanis said sadly. " We took him and Councilors Den and Humbridge out of Winterhaven. We're all that's left to oppose him here. The city is in his hands now I'm afraid."
" What of your dragon brothers?" Another professor asked.
" Jandar will send help if we need." Cutter said. " But only to help evacuate. The city's affairs under the treaty he and Rage signed can only be interfered with if asked by a majority of the council. So far all he has is three members. We have two more here, but it will take six for him to be able to send fighting help."
" But your here." Tanis said. He didn't understand the difference. "Your fighting."
" Yes, but I had family here." He explained. " When I arrived my brother and sister were still in the city. And we came on dragon business remember. One of our clan was in peril. Once Insa was free of the city, we were suppose to leave. Jandar can still deny any knowledge of our actions. And don't forget, none of Tayor's men lived that saw a dragon in Winterhaven."
" Them what are we going to do?" Azeal asked. " The school must be protected."
" I have an idea." They all heard from behind them. Everyone turned to find Lisette Testa still with them. Lowell and Cutter had thought she had gone with everyone else to help with the wounded. After all, she was a nurse.
" Whats is it,Lis?" Lowell said smiling as the men parted to let her enter their circle.
" This is just a place." She said. " The school is really in the instructors and the students. Must people die for a building? Is that really necessary? Can't we all just get away from here?"
Cutter looked at her in awe. Such innocence and beauty he thought, and wisdom. Of course that was the answer. Winterhaven was no longer safe to be the home of the Andrake Academy. They had to leave. But how was he to get so many people out of Winterhaven? There wasn't enough dragons to fly them and there wasn't time even if he had them. There could only be one way to do this. Magic. And it would have to be some very powerful magic. What powerful mage could he find? Jandar? Yes, he was powerful, but he needed someone even more powerful. Who was the most powerful and feared. Then it hit him. The mage so powerful even the gods feared him that they hide all his life's work. Gannon Ka.
" Lady." He hugged her in his excitement. " You are brilliant! She's right, Andrake Academy isn't safe here with Tayor Larin ruling the land. The only way to save it is to move the school somewhere else."
" Are you mad!!" Sadon shouted at him. " We don't have that kind of power! It would take more then we have here to even attempt something of that magnitude. I say we fight!"
" You would see these children fighting a war they can't possibly win?" Cutter yelled advancing on the mage." Even worst, you would put them in his hands? Because that's what happens if we lose. Tayor will have the school and everyone in it. Will you take that chance with there lives, cause I won't!"
" I see nothing else to do but fight!" He said. " But if you have another plan, I'll listen."
" I do." Cutter calmed down. " But I'm going to need your help and all of your magical strength to do this. Can I count on you?"
" Of course." Sadon looked around at the rest of the staff as they nodded their agreement. " What can we do?"
" The school must be secured." Cutter told them then turned to the instructors and professors. " Anything beyond the walls surrounding the school either has to be moved in or abandoned. I'll leave that to you. Councilors Gaunt and Terryn, your going to need rest and meditation. We'll need you at your most powerful."
" You'll find us resting in our office." Borin Gaunt said as they led the staff away issuing orders on what was needed to be done.
" What of us?" Azeal asked.
" I want the both of you in the skies watching the city. I'll need to know if Tayor sends anyone towards us." He turned to Lowell. " Your on guard duty. This entire school needs to be searched just in case Tayor managed to get men in here before we got here. I want all entrances watched and your men rested and ready in case we do need to fight."
" What of you,Jake?" Tanis asked.
" I have people I need to talk to." He said. " There's someone we need here as fast as possible. Good luck everyone."

From the main office the staff scatter out and into the school on the different tasks set before them. One young man that happened to be one of Macan's healer, escorted Lisette to the infirmary. There they found Macan busy treating the wounded as best he could. At the moment they entered he was busy healing a sword wound one man had received on the flight to the school. This was a brave young boy that Lisette remembered well. They had come across him fighting three of Tayor's men that had broken in to a house and dragged the family out. They had slaughter the parents and intended to raping the two young girls when the guard stopped them. He had fought bravely and killed his enemies but was severely wounded in the fight. When they arrived the two young girls stood over him one with his sword and the other held a broom guarding him. Lowell had quickly had the boy bandaged as best he could and put on something they could carry. His bleeding had been stopped but he was in serious condition when he arrived at the infirmary. As Lisette looked around she saw the two young girls still there waiting to be sure he would be well. She went over and checked with Macan how serious his condition was. Macan wasn't sure if he would make it at all. Sadly she went and told the girls the news and that they should get some rest and return later to see how he was doing. Then she went to work helping anyone she could.
Outside the staff hurried along as they made sure everything was made safe and secure. The stable was outside of the walls so the animals had to be brought in and found a safe place to stay. Hay and feed for the horses, chickens and other exotics was also stored since they had no idea where they would be going. Having done that, they moved on to be sure there was nothing else that could be done. Nothing could be done for sporting areas beyond the walls, they would just have to be abandoned. All equipment in any outer houses and sheds were stored away and soon they were as ready as they could be.

Dressed in their dark cloaks, the two vampires of New Keanna made their way out one of the back entrances of the Academy. Theirs would be a dangerous mission. They were on their way to spy on a very powerful mage. If somehow their enemy pierced their disguise, there was a chance they might not make it back. Azeal looked over at his friend and noticed how scared he looked.
" What are you thinking?" Azeal asked.
" Just saying a little pray to my mother." Tanis answered.
" Did she answer?"
" Yes." He said smiling. " She says be careful."
" I hope you said one for me to."
" Don't I always." Tanis pushed back his brown hair from his face." Lets Go."
Spreading there arms they both concentrating on the shift and began their change. Tanis took the form of a great black hawk and Azeal, a harpy eagle. Feathers grow and their bodies shrank down to bird form, then off into the skies they went winging their way out over the city. With their superb eyesight they scanned the streets block by block. Tayor had ordered the people to their homes and for no one to be on the streets on pain of death, so the only ones moving were his men loot shops and tearing up the city. No shops had opened today, and no city services were being provided until he lifted his order. They watched from a roof as people were dragged from there home and robbed. Some were beaten and some were even raped. Azeal looked away from the horrors. He couldn't bare to watch what was happening to Winterhaven.
[ Don't worry Azeal.] Tanis sent to him. [ I know we're not just walking away. We'll be doing something about this soon.]
[ I know. It just brings back memories of what happened in Vasagi.]
[ You mean my father.] Painful emotions rushed out from Tanis at the mention of Vasagi. [ And what he did to the whole country. I'm sorry.]
[ Don't be.] Azeal tried to reassure his friend. [ None if it was your doing. You couldn't his stopped any of it. And you've done you part to end it. Im proud to be your friend Tanis.]
[ Thank you.] Tanis cawed his hawk call. [ So what now?]
[ We move to the council building and try and see what Tayor plans.] Azeal spread his great wings and leap off the roof. [ Come on.]

Insa's office in the Academy was a rather large chamber with two levels, nothing like his suite in the council building. This chamber was more dedicated to the academics and his roll as Headmaster here. It bore furniture for humans and a great desk and his private library which filled the entire second level. The first level was where he met with students and parents. He also had a small magical lab there where he could do any private lessons he thought necessary. Here he also kept a place he could rest in human form . A large comfortable couch he often used. This was where Cutter found himself. A quiet place he could you to make contact with those he now needed to talk to. He thought about Adanar and Emrel. Where could they be now he wonder. They where the first he would try to contact. He settled himself comfortably on the couch and reached out for there minds.
[ Adanar!] He sent out. His mind searched for his younger brother and litely touched his mind for a second. He felt fear there, but he couldn't seem to get a grasp of him. He didn't know why. He and Adanar had always been able to find each other. Almost as easy as he and Seven could. Since he couldn't get Adanar, he tried Emrel.
[ Emrel! sister!]
Nothing. Not even the feeling he had gotten from his brother. This scared him. He thought about calling Seven and sending her after them. But he didn't want to get her all worried to, That left Morganz and Braddoc. He knew Jandar had sent Braddoc out to help. He hoped maybe they had found then by now.
[ Cousin! How goes your search?] Almost instantly he felt the touch and contact with his cousins mind. But he didn't feel quite right. [ Have you found them yet?]
[ No cousin.] He answered. [ We've run into a problem.]
[ What's wrong?]
[ We're not alone out here looking for them.] Morganz told him. [ There's a strange witch out here too. And she seems to want them.]
[ What?] Cutter asked. [ I don't understand. Who else could be after them and why?]
[ I don't know. But she tried to kill me with poison. Luckily Braddoc was able to stop it and save me.]
[ Thank him for me please.] Cutter sent. [ Are you alright? Should I send Seven to help you?]
[ We're getting on the road after them now. We'll be fine.] Came Morganz answer. { How is Winterhaven?]
[ The city is in deep peril right now. But there's nothing you can do to help but what your doing now. Find Adanar and Emrel and get them home. And find out whats going on in Eventide to. Whoever this woman is, it has to do with home. I think Tayor Larin's behind it.]
[ Tayor Larin?] Morganz hate and distrust of the man radiated out to Cutter. [ He's behind the trouble in Winterhaven. I knew it! I never could stand that dark bastard.]
[ I think it's all his doing. But don't worry. We'll figure some way to stop him. Just get back to Eventide and see what's going on. And Morganz.]
[ Yes?]
[ Find my brother and sister.] Cutter said. [ Aglar lenn tyss!]
[ Thalion sul Tyss!] And Morganz was gone. The news from Morganz wasn't good. Cutter wonder who it was that could be after his brother and sister. Surely Tayor's hand couldn't possibly reach all the way into the elven nations. Though he didn't put it past him. But he didn't have time to worry about that now. He had a school to protect now. That meant reaching Jandar.
[ Jandar!] He sent out. [ Brother we need help.]

In a window of the chamber of the new king of Winterhaven, two majestic birds of prey came down to land. No one notices as they flew in to land on a beam in the ceiling. They sat quietly and watched what was going on down beneath them. Below them two man talked. One of the was the new king, Tayor Larin.
" How goes the fighting, Youron?" Tayor sat comfortably on his new throne. He was so smug in his manner. He knew he had won the city. Now he just had to hold it.
" The fighting is over my lord." Youron said. " The city is ours."
" Ours?" Tayor's said frowning.
" Your pardon my lord." He bowed. " I meant yours."
" Now and forever." He laughed. " Have you found Insa yet?"
" No my lord. We have searched all over the city. There's no dragons in Winterhaven."
" And your sure of that?" Tayor lifted his cane as the crystal at the head began to glow a bright golden light.
" Yes my lord." Youron said. " I'm positive."
" You see this?" Tayor held out the glowing cane. " My cane can perform some wonderful magic. I can possess others minds. I can steal their magic. I can make them do anything I want like a puppet. It can also detect certain kinds of magic. And this tells me there are dragons near."
Youron's face turned ashen with fear. He had been in Tayor's service for years and had earned his trust. Now he feared his masters anger.
" What of the school?" Tayor asked. " Is it in my hands yet?"
" No my lord. I am organizing the attack now. The man are regrouping at the manor as we speak."
" I sent Tabor and a small group ahead." Tayor stood and walked down from his throne. " You have two hours until I walk into Andrake Academy and take it myself. If I do, you will be the one to pay. understand?"
" Yes my lord." Youron backed his way out of the the chamber. " Your will, will be done."
[ We have to get back to warn Cutter they're coming.] Azeal sent. [ We better hurry.]

Deep in the shadows in the back of Insa's upper library lever, five people emerged from the darkness. One was a tall man dressed all in black except for the silver star he wore on his chest over his heart. Also over his right eye gleamed another star. This was the dragon of darkness, Blink. Behind him came four others. One an elder man dressed in a grey robe, the sign of a master mage. Kalin Ka,the great ancestor of Gannon Ka and master to all his magic lore. Next was a golden eyed beautiful girl with a very unemotional look on her face. She was Texa. Gannon's tomb of magic knowledge in a lovely form. The last two in line were the two councilors Blink had bought back to there city to help. Councilors Den and Humbridge. Together they moved on down the spiral staircase to meet Cutter on the bottom.
" Thank you for coming." Cutter greeted the new arrivals. " The school really needs your help."
" What's going on here?" Kalin asked. " All Jandar said was that we we're needed here fast and to bring the councilors with us."
"Come with me and I'll explain what's going on."
Cutter led them out of Insa's office and through the school as he told them the situation. Listening carefully the five got the idea where they were going and what he wanted.
" Moving the entire school is a very unique answer to the problem." Kalin said. " And the right one. I can just imagine what Tayor Larin might do if he had control here. This would no longer be a school of neutral magic. And I doubt he would care what the students or teachers thought. They would become his own personal army of dark magi's."
" Yes." Councilor Den said. " But can we do it? As masters I think we may have the power needed for such an undertaking, but we'll need more then just magic."
" I agree." Councilor Humbridge spoke up. " I have no idea how to even proceed with something like this."
" My master Gannon has written many spells of such power." Texa told them. " If it is master Kalin's wish, I can provide the right spell to use."
" Gannon had a need for something like this?" Kalin asked.
" Long ago, Gannon's King Nickolai decide his palace was far to easy for his enemies to gain access to." As she talk she spread her hands over her hand and a scene displayed before them. It showed Gannon talking with King Nickolai. " Gannon knew that he would have the same problem no matter where King Nickolai was, so he fashioned something special for him. I have that spell still. But we need four others to work this spell since none of you have the power my master had."
" We have others to help" Cutter told her. " There's all the magic we need in these wall."

The halls of Andrake Academy were quiet. All the students had been sent to the main hall to keep them safe. The only people in the halls were what was left of the city guard. They were all on guard for any intruders finding there way into the building. At each entrance two armed men kept watch for any of Tayor's people. They had no idea when they would be coming, but they knew it was just a matter of time. Lowell stood out in the garden watching the skies for the return of Azeal and Tanis with news. Any news for them would make a big difference right now for they didn't know how long it would be before they could work their magic. While he watched, he had men go room to room checking each room for its occupant. It was a roll call to be sure all the students over the age of fifteen was in their room safe. Once the count was done, they realized all the students were there. Except for four young elves.

Flying at top speed, Azeal and Tanis pushed their wings as hard as they could to get back to the academy. There wasn't much time. Youron would have Tayor's forces at the gates in less then an hour. Cutter wouldn't have much time for preparations. Ahead of them they saw the academy building coming up on them fast. Lowell stood out front waving at them. Dropping down they made ready to shift while still on the move. Just a few feet off the ground they made the shift. Their feet formed running once over the gate.
" What did you find?" Lowell asked as they reached him.
" Their coming!!" Azeal said. " Tayor will have his men here in less then an hour. He's given the order to attack us."
" Then we better make sure everything's ready." Lowell waved over one of his men to him.
" Yes sir!" The guard said snapping to attention.
" Get all our men out here in front." He told him. " Make sure there all armed. Tanis, you have whatever mages available up in the windows giving us support. Fireballs, power balls, freezing whatever they are good it."
As he gave orders to his men, two men approached him. He knew these men. The were Dack and Cravens fathers. He had told them earlier that their sons were safe in New Keanna. He wondered why the weren't with their wives in the dining hall.
" What can I do for you Delan?"
" No." Delan Rainer said. " What can we do for you? We want to help."
" That's not necessary." Lowell clapped him on his shoulder. " Stay with your wives. They'll need you."
" Our wives are busy with the kids." Rue Tasco said." Let us help. I'm very good with a sword."
" And you know I can handle a crossbow Lowell." Delan smiled. " Let us help."
" Very well if you insist." Lowell was actually glad for the help. They needed it.
" Delan, get a crossbow from the armory and join the mages in the windows. Rue, you can help in the yard. Just please, no heroics."
" YES SIR!" The ran off to follow his orders.
" I'm staying here with you." Azeal told him pulling Justice from its scabbard. " Valkar would have me fight with you."
" No." Lowell said. " Your to go to Cutter. I want both you and Tanis to protect them. They're more important. If someone finds a way down to them, they'll need strong fighters. Now get going, we don't have much time!"

High in the upper floors of the boys dormitory a group of men dressed in city guard uniforms and a young mage waited. They had stayed quietly in a private room assigned to a very important student. One that no one expected was still in the school. With very powerful cloaking magic no one had seen them during the search of if the school. Now it was time for them to make their move.
" You all know what you are to do." The young mage said as he paced arrogantly in front of them. " The word going around is that they're going to move the school some how. We can't let that happen. The invasion will take place within the hour. I wasn't able to find out just how they're planning on doing this, but it has to be with magic. Somewhere here they're going to be casting the spells, your going to have to find them and stop it."
" And you young sir?" Asked one of the men. The young mage looked at him as if he had no business questioning him. They knew he was in charge here.
" There's something I need to find. But what I do is not your affair. You just do as I say or you will see what I can do with magic. Is that clear?"
" Yes Sir!" They said quietly. " What if we run into magically opposition?"
"This will take care of any wards barring any doors and lead you to the strongest magic being worked in the building. Lord Larin made it, I doubt there will be anyone as powerful as he here. Search carefully." He said handing the amulet to the leader. He opened the door and looked open into the hall. There was no one out there." Do not get caught. Now go."
One by one the first warriors of an invaded force entered the halls of the Andrake Academy. Quietly they moved down the hall to the transport stones and searched the school floor by floor. There wasn't much by way of resistance in the school. All of Lowell's warriors were outside and at the entrances waiting for the main attack. What few they did see they passed without any trouble at all.
" So where do you think we'll find them?" One young man asked. He nodded to a passing teacher that looked at them strangely.
" They'll go somewhere private." The leader said. " Somewhere deep in the building. It won't be here where the coming invasions might get to them."
" Whats below the first floor?" Another asked.
" Laboratories I guess. That and dungeons and maybe storage."
" Dungeons in a school?" The young man frowned. The thought just didn't go with his idea of a school.
" This wasn't always a school." The leader told them. " Once it was some kind of monastery for some long dead god. There are still altars down below I expect. That is where we should go." He held up Tayor's amulet and saw it was like a compass. It had north, west, east and south marked, but the needle didn't always point north. On this day it clearly pointed more in a southeasterly direction.
" We go that way." He pointed down a hall off to the left. So off they when to complete their mission.

Earlier in the day after Azeal and Tanis had returned, they made they're way to the office to find Cutter waking up Councilors Gaunt and Terryn. With Cutter were the new arrivals Blink, Kalin Ka, Texa and Councilors Den and Humbridge. Quickly they told them all they had heard in Lord Larins throne room.
" Then there's not much time." Cutter said. " We should hurry. Texa, what will the spell require?"
" Since your magic will be split and coming from more then one mage." She said. " You will need to arrange yourselves in the four directional points of the castle. Each councilor will take a point and recite the spell at the same time with my master Kalin in the center directing the spell. I warn you. You will need all your concentration on this spell while casting or things can go awry."
" Then you will all need protection." Cutter said. " If somehow we are breached and they get to you, you won't be able to protect yourselves. One of us will go with each of you. Azeal, you go with Councilor Den to the north. Tanis, Councilor Humbridge, go east. Blink take Councilor Gaunt, you go west and I will protect you Councilor Terryn in the south. Texa, I trust you can protect Kalin?"
" As always." She said. " That is my mission, why I was created."
" Anything else?" Cutter asked very anxious to get on with what they had to do.
" Once the spell is cast the mages will be weak." She said. " Do not move them. They may fall. Do not touch them. You will disrupt the magic. Just let them rest. The school will then be on the move. Just bring them back here when they wake. One more thing. Once the spell begins, a wall will appear around the school. Everyone must be inside that wall. Those outside will be left behind. Anyone caught in the same space the wall occupies will die screaming. You should warn the people fighting outside."
" I will." Cutter said as they all begain moving out of the offices. " Good luck everyone. We have to get this right or Andrake Academy will be no more."

Outside Lowell watched as the new Lord Larin's forces began to advance on the Academy. He had armed all his men as best he could and stationed all the offensively powerful students in the windows to use their magic as best the could. That would be a great help he thought in keeping them back as long as they could. But he knew they would tire and then it would be up to them with hand to hand battle. It was a clear beautiful day he thought for battle. A good day to die. He smiled as he thought of his wife on the inside waiting with the others to deal with the wounded. He knew she would do her part to help. Then he thought of Zarin and hoped the dragons would keep him safe and he would be proud of his fathers actions today. The gods knew he would always be proud of his son and his friends and glad they weren't here for this fight. He just couldn't think of what could happen to any of them had they been there. Zarin and Reno would have insisted on being out there with him on the front lines, Dack too he guessed. Looking out at the coming troops he knew they were over matched. He had less the fifty men in his command and there was more the a few hundred lined up out the to face him. Beside him stood his second in command and two senior teaching mages ready but hoping this would all be over in seconds.
Youron climbed down of his horse and handed the reins to a warrior. He adjusted his armor and walked out towered the gate where Lowell stood.
" I know you Captain Lowell Testa." He called. " By order of the new king of Winterhaven. Lord Tayor Larin. I order you and your men to lay down your arms and surrender all you hold to us."
" I don't recognize your lords authority here." Lowell shouted. " He is not the legal king of Winterhaven. We are not ruled by a king but by the council here. Tayor Larin is nothing but a dark evil man making his bid for power. He has no claim here."
" He claims this city by right of his power." Youron thunders. " He is the strongest mage in this city. By that right he should rule here. You will surrender or we will kill you and everyone that opposes us. Do I make myself clear?"
" We are not helpless here." With that, Lowell ordered the mage at his side to send a blast of flame at the enemy. Flames shot out from the wall into a crowd of men and horses. Panic over took them and scattered the horse trampling a few men under hooves.
" Attack at your own risk!" Lowell said." Anyone comes over the wall or through the gate dies. If you don't believe me then try. and I hope your the first to die."

The Gift. 14

The morning sun rose as Morganz pushed his horse as hard as he could to keep from being caught by the pack of garmr chased them. He looked back and saw they were less the twenty yards behind him and gaining on him. His horse was exhausted and wouldn't be able to go to much farther. Up ahead saw the break in the forest. He was almost out, but that wouldn't stop the garmr from chasing him. Once his horse fell he would have to fight them on his own. He bore down and urged the horse into one last burst of speed to make it eo somewhere he could make a stand. Foam ran from his tired horses mouth as it exited the forest and fell dead to the ground. Morganz leaped high as it fell and rolled in the air and landed on his feet drawing his weapon.
"COME ON!!" He shouted gripping his swords as the garmr came at him snarling. Suddenly arrows came flying from behind him bringing down the first two hounds. As he watched, more arrows streaked in quickly knocking two more out of the pack leaving four still coming. Morganz braced himself as they came at him. Just as the dogs were about to snap at him something came leaping over him slashing in the pack with its blades pushing them back in surprise. Slashing and stabbing at the beast, Morganz stood shocked to saw a great centaur brandishing a large sword hacking into the hounds. He turned back to Morganz and shouted.
" You going to help here?"
Morganz smiled and waded into the fight with each of his blades flashing in the morning sun. Morganz fought one while the centaur faced two garmr. Kicking out with his front hooves, the centaur connected with the snout of one hound while stabbing at another. It howled in pain and rushed in swiping at him. Jumping back out of the way he sent his sword into the chest of the second beast killing it and reared up to strike again. The garmr growled and turned and fled back into the forest.
Morganz fought fast and furiously as he ducked and leaped away from the paws of the hound he faced. With a roar the hound leaped in and tried to grab him. With amazing speed, Morganz leaped high into the air and bought the hilt of his sword down smashing into the top of the hounds head knocking it to the ground. With a quick swing across its throat he finished the beast leaving it to choke and bleed laying dead with the other.
"Well fought." The centaur said cleaning his sword on the hide of one of the hounds before sheathing it. "You fight well."
"As do you my friend." Morganz stepped up to the centaur holding out his hand. "I thank you for your aid. I am Morganz Alavara of Eventide. Captain of the Winterhaven gate guards."
"I know who you are." The centaur gripped his forearm. " I've been sent by Cutter to help you find his brother and sister and get them back to Eventide. He thinks there's something wrong in his elven home. My name is Braddoc, chief of the High Range tribe."
"Your help and you bow is much appreciated." Morganz said. "But as you can see, I'm in need of a horse. Mine has been run to death."
" No worries." Braddoc told him. "I'll be your steed. We'll move much faster that way. But I'm not really familiar with these lands. I can help you track and hunter, but you'll have to show me the way to Eventide."
" That's not going to be a problem. I know the way home." Morganz went to his horse and took all his belongs and packed what he needed. He looked at his saddle then looked back at Braddoc.
" You won't need it." He said. " Just a blanket will do. You can use a strap around my waist to hold on to, but that's all."
Morganz nodded and carried his things to the centaur and put them on him. He climbed on his back and Braddoc found his weight very comfortable.
" Which way?"
" We go southeast." Morganz told him." See those tracks? They belong to Adanar and Emrel. You can tell from the shape of there horses shoes. Those are elven horses."
Braddoc looked down to familiarize himself with the tracks. He was and expert tracker, the best in his tribe. Now that he knew what to look for he would have no trouble following them.
" Hold on." He said knelling down to examine the tracks. " By the looks of these tracks, they're many hours ahead of us and riding hard."
" Then we should get moving." Morganz said as Braddoc took the his hand and helped him onto his back. " I'm hoping we can catch them before days end."
" Agreed. Hold on." Braddoc smiled. " I run much faster then your horse could, and I'd hate to lose you."
" Don't worry. I'm a expert rider." Morganz gripped the straps he had put around Braddoc's waist to keep him steady.
" Expert?" He laughed. " You've never ridden a centaur before."
With that, Braddoc reared up on his hind legs then took off following carefully the trail the two young elves had left behind.

Dressed in her most beautifully black woven dress decorated with shining pieces of obsidian, Talsara stepped from the airway with the Eventide majordomo and followed him to the throne room. As they approached the two door guards stood stiffly. Eolis stopped and turned to the dark queen.
" I will announce you to the king and queen mother." He said. She waved him on dismissing him. With his approach, the two guards opened the door and he walked in to the large hall.
Sitting on there thrones, Evindal Eventide and his mother Dasyra sat regally taking care of affairs of there kingdom. There was a short line of petitioners waiting to be heard. Judgements were to be passed, quarrels decided and punishment had sentenced. Eolis waited until a kings aide noticed him and waved him forward. It was know he had been assigned to the visiting dark queen as a liaison. Eolis whispered to the aide news of Talsara waiting. Quickly the king was informed of his honored guests. A path was cleared and Eolis was told to make his announcement.
" Majesties." He called to them. Evindal and his mother Dasyra sat talking on there thrones. " The queen of the Darkshades awaits."
" Show her in." Evindal nodded. Eolis turned back to the door to announce the queen. King Evindal turned to his mother beside him on her throne. " Mother, what is she doing here?"
" Your brother Ryel asked me the same question." She whispered.
" And? "
" I have no idea." She said. " But I don't think its anything good."
The doors opened and Talsara walked in her head held high smiling. She stopped at the throne and bowed to them.
" I bring you greetings Lord and Queen mother of the Eventide's." She said bowing. " Greetings from the Darkshades."
" Greetings to you Queen Talsara. We welcome you to our green city, but we are curious why your here visiting us." Evindal smiled down at the dark queen.
" Visiting old friends." She looked up at Dasyra." It has been a long time."
" Aye, it has." Dasyra said. " Not since the day your son was born and Tanyl and I bought you gifts for him. How is he?"
" In school in Winterhaven with two of your children. " She smiled. " He has grown tall and strong."
" Strange." Dasyra frowned. " Neither Adanar or Emrel have spoke of him. I'm sure he'll make you proud.
" Yes, he will. If he does what he's told." Talsara took a package from out of he sleeve. " With the proper queen he will be a strong Darkshade ruler. And that is a part of my mission. To find him the right princess. Be first, I would like to present the Queen mother with a gift."
" A gift?" Evindal's eyes widened in surprise. This was unexpected. Evindal waved over his aide as Talsara opened the pouch and took out the necklace. There in her hands she held the beautiful bronze oak leaf with the gleaming amber acorn in its center. She held it up to show the crowd of elves the the royals before her.
" For you Queen Dasyra." She bowed to them. The aide walked down and took it from Talsara's hands and brought it back to Evindal.
" How beautiful!" He exclaimed holding it up gazing at it as it turned on its golden chain. " We thank you."
Evindal handed it back to the aide who passed it to Dasyra. She looked into it to examine it for magic. She felt nothing. Its curse was hidden well, Talsara had made sure of it.
" Will her majesty honor us by wearing it?" Talsara smiled at her slyly.
Handing the necklace back to the aide, Dasyra pulled her white illustrious hair up so the necklace could be put on her. As the clasps were fastened a brief flash sparked out seen only by Talsara. She nodded and smiled again at Dasyra. She know what the flash meant. The curse had just been activated. Dasyra was now doomed. Unknown to them the queens magic was now useless. In a few days she would fall ill, then the end would come soon after that for her.
" Thank you." Dasyra smiled. " I will wear it with pride as a symbol of friendship between the two of our families."
" To our families." Talsara said laughing to herself. Her plan was working just as she knew it would.
" Will you dine with us tonight?" Evindal stood and walked down to the dark queen. She reached out her hand to the king. He took it and kissed the back politely.
" Of course your majesty." She said. " I would be honored."

" MOTHER!!!" Emrel jumped up from her bedding with a start. She had just had the worst dream about home and their mother. But was it a dream? She didn't think so, it was more of a warning. Mother was in danger, that's what the dream was all about. She looked next to her to where Adanar was sleeping. He had a strange look on his face and he was fidgeting in his sleep. He was having a nightmare to and mumbling.
" No, no!" He said. " I won't let you do this!"
" Adanar!" She shook him. " Wake up!"
" NO!" He opened his eyes and grabbed for his sword looking around for the threat.
" Brother, it was a dream." She put a hand to his face to assure him they were alright. " I had one too, about home and mother."
" What did you dream?" He asked rubbing the sleep from his eyes. Fear and anxiety still filled his mind.
" I dreamed there was a dark lady at home with Evindal and mother." She said. " She's trying to hurt mother. I know she is. We have to get home fast."
" Then lets get going." Adanar pushed away his blankets and got to his feet. He reached down to help his sister up.
" What was your dream about?"
" It was nothing." He said. " Lets just get out of here."
Quickly they gathered all the things and set them back on there horses. Adanar looked at Emrel still very much worried about his dream. He knew it was more then just a dream. Like Emrel he had them too every now and then, and they always meant something. His dreams weren't as clear as hers were, but they were just as accurate. Something bad was going to happen soon, and he was afraid there was nothing they could do to stop it. But he sure as hell would try.

Being magical was a very useful talent for the people of Keanna. Used for everyday things like daily chore like cleaning and cooking. Personnel things like dressing and fetching items and of course, defense and offense. It could also be used for covert things like hiding and finding things you might be searching for. All though there magic had failed to find the ring Tabor was searching for, Aron's spell to located the two missing Eventide's had worked perfectly. The minute they rode out of the clearing Aron saw them in the magic globe he had summoned and knew exactly where the two elves were. Once they had located the brother and sister, the Elan and Aron drove there horses on until they spotted them.
" There!" Aron pointed to the two riding over a hill. " Come on we can catch them!"
" No!" Elan stopped his love. " Not so fast. I don't want to have to fight them. Emrel could get hurt."
" You worried about her." Aron asked then looked off afraid of Elan's answer.
" No! But Adanar's no novice with magic or a blade. You could get hurt, and I can't let that happen."
" Then what do you want to do?" Aron was relieved by what Elan had said. He knew he had to let his jealousy go before he destroy his bond with Elan. But it was not going to be easy.
" We follow them." Elan told his mate. " Then we lure them with deception to where we want them to go. That way we don't have to fight. For now, we keep back until we find a chance to present ourselves in a way they will trust us. Can you keep track of them?"
" I think I can." Aron smiled and held up his hand. In the center he held the globe. They looked deeply into the globe and saw a vision of the two they followed riding swiftly away.
" This will work." Elan reached over and kissed his mate. " How long will the spell last?"
" Until I banish it nin meleth." He answered. " Im neit saal io."
" Good, then we need not rush, just stay close." Elan urged his horse into a trot. " Our chance will come soon."

During the hours of the day, Sarella slept the sleep of near death. But that didn't mean she was powerless or unable to act. She still possessed the power to act during the day. Her physical body must stay hidden, but her mind could create a form to use to walk around. Also her mind could still roam free to search and follow her query. From her resting place she saw many things. She saw Adanar and Emrel as they emerged from there hiding place. She saw Elan and Aron follow after them. She knew the were no threat to her, so she decided to leave them alone. She also saw Morganz and Braddoc gaining on the Eventide's and knew they were there to help them get home safely. That she had to stop. She knew she would have to keep them from reaching them before she woke and could get there herself. And she knew just the place to do it. She was going home.
Hidden deep in the cave where she had found refuge, Sarella concentrated on sending a physical form back to where she had started. Relos, the home she had left so long ago. She had mixed feeling about returning. There were happy memories but more were not so good. Memories of her mother and days they spent in her shop baking bread and other treats to sell filled her mind. She thought of the few friends she remembered, Kayla and Melina and the days they played games out in the fields. Then the dark memories started to return. Memories about her father and the horrible things he had done to them. The beatings her mother had taken for years as Sarella was growing up. All the tears she cried as she tried to treat her wounds. And lastly, the reason Sarella left Relos. The night her father raped her and killed her mother.
She had come home early from the shop and founded him drunk waiting for her. He had smiled at her as she came into the home. It that moment, she knew she was in trouble and tried to get out. But he grabbed her and dragged her screaming into the barn. There he ripped off her clothing and raped her in the hay. She screamed in pain as he beat her and ripped away her youth from her young body. That was when her mother came in and found them. Grabbing at him to pull him off her, her mother fought for her. But her father was a powerful man, very strong from his years tolling in the fields. He knocked the woman back and began to beat her. Sarella watched crying as her father beat her mother to death that night. Her anger over came her as she saw him climb off her bloody broke body. She looked to her left and saw the pitchfork laying in the hay pile. Sarella reached over and grabbed it as he was wiping the blood from his face. He let his pants fall to the ground and climbed out of them then turned back to her. She knew he wasn't done with her yet. He smiled at her as he walked towards her, his erect manhood pointing the way.
" NO!" she screamed tears running down her face. " Not ever, ever again!!"
She leaped up raising the pitchfork over her head and rammed it into his chest. He fell back in shock looking at his pitchfork sticking out of him and fell back on the ground. Sarella rushed over to where her mother lay and knelt beside her and pulled her into a hug. She opened her eyes and tried to smile at Sarella. She knew she was dying.
" Sarie." She said weakly. " You have to go. Get away from here."
" No mother, I won't leave you."
" It's to late for me." She said. " But not for you. Don't let your fathers hate take you over. Get away from him, away from here. Promise me."
" I don't want to leave you." She cried hugging her close.
" I love you." Her mother said. And with that she closed her eyes and was gone. Sarela held her dead body as she cried. Then she heard something, a whimper. It was coming from her father. She laid the body down and walked over to where he was. He looked up at her then reached up.
" Help me." He choked.
" I'll help you just like you helped us." She said. Sarella reached out and grabbed the pitchfork and pulled it out. " I love you this much."
She raised it and jammed it down into his body again and again and again until his chest was an open pit. After that she gathered her things, put a torch to the place and left. That was the beginning of her hate, and she would hate for the rest of her life, and it would make her the creature she was today.

Noon was approaching fast as Braddoc and his elven rider came upon and abandoned walled city. They stopped for a minute to check the tracks that had led them there. Morganz looked out at the broken walls that surrounded the city. It had been a while since he had passed this way. He had no idea what had happened here.
" This is Relos." He said. " It wasn't like this the last time I passed. It looks like the raiders finally made it in."
" No." Braddoc told him. " It wasn't the raiders."
" Then what could have done this?"
" This was done by Muerte and her people." He said. " By Pelis the Collector to be exact. Toric and Jayce told me the story of the beast of Relos. It turned out to be Toric's father changed by the death goddess. Another of her and Pelis's attempts to kill the dragons. They almost succeeded, but Toric was a lot stronger then his father thought. Now the city is empty."
" Seems there's a lot I don't know of your dragon friends." Morganz climbed down of his back. He gazed closer at the city. " You say the city is abandoned?"
" Yeah, No one lives there now. The animals have taken over."
" Then why do I see smoke rising from one of the houses down there?"
 Morganz pointed down into the city. Braddoc looked out shielding his eyes from the sun. Sure enough,there was a fire burning down there. Someone was in Relos. Strange he thought. Then he looked again at the tracks they were following and noticed the ran down into the city.
" You don't think...? He asked Morganz. They looked at each other.
" Why not?" The elf shrugged. " Its shelter. They may be resting, thinking to travel by night.
" Then we should go in and check." Braddoc told. " Give me your hand."
Morganz reached out and clasped his hand and was hauled onto his back.
" Hold on."
With Morganz on his back, Braddoc carefully made his way down the hill and into the city. The wall had been knocked down in a few places in Pelis's rage so getting into Relos wasn't a problem, The city had become overgrown with weeds and vines since it had been abandoned. Suddenly Braddoc felt a warm feeling coming from his wrist. He looked at it an saw a blue glow coming from the Salvation stone embedded there. He looked around for whatever had caused the stone to glow. He knew what it meant, the stone was trying to warn him of some danger near them. This city still had some kind of threat for them. They would have to be on guard.
" So where was the smoke coming from?" Braddoc asked.
" The northern part of the city." Morganz said as he climbed off the centaurs back." It's this way."
Together the two turned north and headed down a row of devastated houses. There was all kinds of old household items scattered all over the streets from people that had packed fast and hurried out of the city. Braddoc stepped on an old doll some child had dropped while trying to get away.
" Look!" Morganz pointed. Up ahead the saw a house. It had somehow survived all the carnage that had destroyed the city. Smoke rise from the chimney and an old woman sat out front peeling some kind of vegetables from a basket on her lap. She looked up and saw them coming towards her and sat aside her basket.
" Welcome." She smiled. " More guest. I haven't seen this many people in a long time. Not since everyone moved away."
"Moved away? Braddoc thought. They didn't just move away. They ran screaming from this place. What's she talking about. Who is this old woman?
" Then you have seen our friends?" Morganz called to her. " An elven couple?"
" Yes, they are here in Relos." The old woman tried to stand falling back in her chair. Morganz rushed forward to help her to her feet giving her his arm to pull herself up.
" Thank you." She grasp his arm as she got to her feet and scratched him with her jagged nails. He pulled away suddenly looking at the minor wound. " Forgive an old woman. It's not so easy to groom them at my age."
Braddoc again felt the burning at his wrist. Something was wrong in Relos, but there was no one here except the old woman. He looked at her with suspicion.
" I hope you can stay and dine with us." She smiled her toothless grin at them. " You can rest here while you wait for you friends."
" Where are they?" Braddoc asked. He reached out to Morganz and looked at the scratch on his arm. It was bleeding and there was a nasty green slime there. This isn't right he thought. He looked into her basket and saw there was nothing in it. Morganz stumbled against him with a sick look on his face.
" This is not right." He caught Morganz as he fell into him and lowered him to the ground. " Who are you?"
" Ha ha ha ha ha ha!" The woman cackled backing away from them. In a flash she suddenly changed. The old woman that once stood before them was gone. In her place stood a another woman dressed in gray with a deathly pale look and gray hair. Braddoc reached to his back and grabbed his sword to protect them.
" If I were you." She said as the wind began to pick up and blow around her dress and cloak. " I'd worry more about your friend there then me, because Im not really here. But he is going to die!!"
As Braddoc watched, the woman laughed loudly at him and faded away as if like she said, she was never there. Braddoc knew then that this was all just a trap made to catch them, and it worked. Morganz was now infected with some kind of poison. Lifting him up, Braddoc carried him into the house and laid him on an old pile of blankets he found there. He went back out and got so water from and old well he found. Luckily the well was still useable and not rank. Braddoc lifted him up and tried giving him a drink, but Morganz started coughing and choking. He felt his forehead and knew his temperature was up. They were in trouble. Morganz would die if he didn't figure some way to help him. But what? What could cure the man and save his life? If Only Gabriel the healer dragon was here. But he and his mate were still missing. What else could help them? What could be Morganz's salvation? Wait, salvation! He looked down at the glowing stone on his wrist. It was shining brightly like it was trying to tell him something. Braddoc lifted Morganz arm and held the stone to the wound and the glow shined out intensely. Morganz breathing began to ease up more to normal, the sweat stopped pouring from his face. It was working. The wound was healing. All the green that had begone creeping up his arm was fading away. Now all he needed was rest. Braddoc hoped he'd be well enough to travel by morning because now they would really have to move to catch up with Adanar and Emrel. And that woman, they would have to watch out for her. Something told him, they would meet again.

Fear the Seventh. 13

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Lost and the New Dragon. 12

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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