DRAGONARI MASTERS

SUMMARY: The sixth story in the series that began with FAIRY BOND. It continued with:
DRAGON MASTERS
DROW MASTERS
MOUNTAIN MASTERS
BANDIT MASTERS.

DRAGONARI MASTERS continues the tale. Strange hell-spawn creatures are appearing on the surface in Morin. No one is sure why they were released. But a millennia ago, they were bred to hunt the Avariel, beautiful winged Elves who are now thought extinct. The Gods are interfering again, and the other races, including the Drow, are called into action to protect what's left of a dying race. Can they put aside their differences and save the Avariel? Only time will tell.

Prologue
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Ether Between the Worlds
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Methandru appeared and faced Chareth. Chareth bowed. “Mother, she comes. As you said, Gaia gave her sanctuary. But the Dragonari picked up her scent as soon as she left. They are pursuing her over the mountain.”

“Balthazar is informed. His paragons will slow their pursuit, and probably take out some of them.”

Chareth nodded, a frown on her face. “Ferasyl is brave, but I fear for her. It would be a great loss to me if she were to perish. She is one of the few left with courage and leadership.”

Methandru floated closer to Chareth. “She will not perish. I give you my word. If Tyr’s servant cannot restore her, I will step in.”

Chareth’s eyes widened. “You cannot. It is forbidden to interfere directly, and to that degree. The others would be furious. Who knows what the consequences would be.”

“Then, if I must do so to save your child, it will have to be our secret, won’t it?” Methandru said softly.

Chareth gazed at the strongest of the Gods and nodded carefully. “A breath of it will never leave my lips, Mother.”

Methandru nodded. “Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that. I have faith in Tyr’s word, and his servant.”

“Thank you. I will watch over her, guide her instincts on the path that will be swiftest.”

“Do so, and Lyssa has sent one of hers to aid as well. He will intercept and aide her once she is over the mountain. Guide her to him.”

“She has? But I am a lesser Goddess. Why does she help me?”

Methandru nodded. “We all want this to succeed Chareth. Do not underestimate the strength of our resolve. The Age of Cooperation was not meant to just include the five Gods.” The five Gods were Methandru, Grenth, Lyssa, Tyr and Balthazar; so called because they were the strongest, with the most worshippers. “It was meant to eventually include everyone. However, we would have had chaos if we tried to bring you all in at once. So we set up a plan to ease you all in one at a time. This way we can all assist and then move on the next. You were chosen because your people are dying out.”

“My need was greatest,” she said solemnly.

Methandru nodded. “Yes, and we don’t wish your people to perish.”

“Is that why the Drow are being included?”

“Yes, they are also a dying race.”

“But they worship a demon, not a God!” she said heatedly.

Methandru smiled. “We hope to change that. It has already begun. Defectors are returning to teach them. This is only the first step.”

“And the Dragons are helping. I never thought I’d see that happen.”

“The Dragonari abandoned them as avatars, but the Drow did not. It is the best way to effect change with them. They will listen to no others – yet.”

“Very well; I will thank Lyssa, Balthazar and Tyr with all my heart if your plan works. It is a bold one.”

“It will work,” Methandru said. “We will make it so.”

Chapter 1
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Brevan Stronghold
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Kiera Nalani-Valin stretched up into the cupboard above her kitchen sink, trying to reach the cheese grater. “Garth!” she wailed. “By Tyr, if you do this to me one more time I’m going to scream to the heavens!” she groused.

He appeared in the doorway, leaning casually on the door jam. His lips twitched with suppressed amusement as he observed his wife. “Having some trouble, darling?” he asked calmly.

She pointed imperiously at the cheese grater through the open cupboard door. “Get. It. Down,” she commanded. Her lips were pursed with annoyance that he found inappropriately amusing and sexy.

He pushed off the door jam and ambled into the kitchen, easily snatching it off the top shelf and holding it on his palms in front of her as though presenting her with a grand gift. “Your grater, madam,” he said solemnly.

“Oh! You!” She slapped his shoulder. “How many times do I have to tell you to put my utensils on the bottom shelf?” she cried.

He pressed his lips together to prevent himself from laughing out loud. “I’m sorry,” he said, with a hitch in his voice.

“Sure you are. You’re just riddled with guilt. I can tell,” she said huffily, grabbing the grater and placing it on the counter next to the cheese.

“Anything else before I go spar with Sogarth’s new group of whelps?” he asked.

“No, in fact, get out of my kitchen,” she groused, pointing toward the door.

He snorted, unable to hold back his amusement. He leaned down and smooched her loudly on the lips, making a smacking noise. “Love you. See you later!”

He whirled out of strike distance as her hand attempted to swat him away again, and then he was out the door into the living room. “Ugg,” she grunted with exasperation.

All of a sudden, she became dizzy and grabbed the counter, swaying on her feet. “Gar …th,” she whispered, her voice rising slightly in panic.

He whipped around and saw her sway. He rushed back to her and supported her with his forearms under hers. “What is it?” he asked, knowing that she was not teasing anymore.

“Oh God,” she moaned and swayed again.

He scooped her up in a baby carry and strode to the couch, sitting down, holding her close. “What’s happening?” he asked. “Should I get a shaman?”

“Wait, he’s showing me something,” she whispered.

Her eyes rolled back under her eyelids and her head flopped against his shoulder. “Kiera!” he shouted, starting to panic. He stood, placed her quickly on the couch and leaped toward the front door.

He flung it open and saw Tristan. “Tristan, get a shaman!” he shouted.

Tristan whirled, saw the panic on Garth’s face and took off running. Garth returned to the couch, kneeling down and taking Kiera’s hands in his. “Kiera, can you hear me?” he cried.

She moaned. “Oh no,” she whispered.

Just then Kethtia, Amarisa and Lanna burst in through the open front door, Brock and Remos were behind them. Kethtia pushed ineffectually on Garth’s shoulder. “Out of the way, Garth!” she commanded.

He looked from Kiera to Kethtia twice, obviously reluctant to step back.

Brock grabbed his arm and pulled back. “Let her work, Garth.”

He stood up and stepped back. Kethtia sat on the couch next to Kiera’s hip, leaned over and palmed her face. “She’s cool and dry. Amarisa, make some peppermint tea.” She carefully lifted her eyelids and observed her eyes.

“Oh no,” Kiera whispered again.

Kethtia looked at Jaylar. “See if you can see anything. I think she’s receiving a vision.”

He nodded and flew off her shoulder, landed on the back of the couch. He crouched and touched Kiera’s forehead. His wings began to hum, his eyes closed and a clear baritone note floated around the room. His head twitched once or twice and he broke contact. “This is bad,” she said.

“WHAT?” Garth nearly shouted.

Kethtia held up her hand for silence. “What did you see?”

Jaylar said, “She is fine, Garth,” he reassured him. “She is being given a vision by her God. I broke out of it. Pandora has warned me about misinterpreting others visions, but it was strong and definitely being sent by a God. Just prop her up a bit, make sure she can breathe. She’ll come out of it when the time is right.”

Garth sagged in relief.

“What was bad about it?” Kethtia asked.

Brock and Remos were staring intently at Jaylar. “I’m not sure. It was very strange. I saw creatures I’ve never seen before. The creatures were pursuing something else.”

“Slow down,” Kethtia said. “From the beginning. What do you mean some-‘thing’ else?”

“I have never seen one, but I recognized the one being chased from our lore.” He paused and looked at the Oracle. “Holy Methandru, there’s an Avariel out there that needs our help. Kiera will have to give us the details.”

Remos scrunched his brow in confusion. “What’s an Avariel?”

Jaylar said, “A winged Elf,” he said with reverence. “We thought they were extinct.”

Pandora looked at him hard. “Are you sure, Jaylar? Could it have been a martyr, or some other winged creature?”

He met her gaze. “No, it was an Avariel. I’m sure of it.”

“Where?” Pandora asked, sounding anxious as Jaylar.

“I don’t know, but headed this way.”

Just then Kiera coughed, moaned and her eyes opened and then closed again. Her hand went to her brow, and Kethtia helped her sit up. Amarisa handed her peppermint tea. “It will refresh you after a vision.”

Kiera nodded and took the tea mug and sipped gently. “I have much to tell you,” she croaked, her voice sounding scratchy.

“I’ll call the council,” Brock said, and strode from the room.

The big, brass bell peeled out over the village and the council began assembling in the square.

Chapter 2
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Midnight Forest
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Morghan McKent and several other rogues had been sent out to scour the Midnight Forest for renegade bandits that had not been routed out. They weren’t to attack, but merely report on position if found. Paragons would then be dispatched to capture them. Winter had come and gone and spring was here again, leaving many plants and trees in bloom. He strode silently through the forest, checking his map, to make sure he was still heading toward the next cave on his list. He doubted he would find anything. This cave was putting him really close to the road, just east of the mountain tunnel.

He arrived and scoped out the surrounding area. If people lived in a cave, there was generally evidence in the vicinity such as crushed underbrush, a privy ditch, or discarded items. Closer in, there was usually a cleared area at the entrance and a fire pit. He saw none of the tell tale signs but was careful to remain silent.

He approached the entrance from the west, his ears tuned keenly to any noises from inside. There might not be bandits, but bears and big cats and other such wild life sometimes took refuge in abandoned caves as well. It paid to be cautious and err on the side of caution. Kashmir had taught him well.

When he heard nothing for several minutes, he lit a small torch and ventured slowly inside. There was a fire pit, but no recent prints or evidence of inhabitation. No one had been here in some time.

He exited the cave and looked up at the sky, judging the time till nightfall and calculating if he could make the next cave by then. He decided he couldn’t. He slipped his knapsack off his back and whistled for his stallion, which he’d left a ways back in the woods. The horse was trained well. He need only drop the reins over his head and let them hang to the ground, and he would wait there as if tied until summoned by a whistle or Morghan returned for him. In a couple minutes, he heard the horse making his way toward him. It stepped into the clearing and he greeted him. “Hi, Gilly.”

The horse snorted and stood patiently. “Think I’ll set up here for the night, pal.”

Just then the horse whinnied and turned his head. Morghan followed his line of sight and cocked his head, listening. He heard a scream, but it sounded far off. “Where the hell is that coming from?” he asked aloud in confusion. He was generally very good at determining the direction of sounds, ferreting out reverberation and such. This was strange. He quickly hung his knapsack on the pommel of Gilly’s saddle and mounted. He heard another scream, but this one sounded like a cry of frustration. And this time, it was coming from the north. He nudged Gilly and carefully made his way forward toward the road.

As he traveled the noises became more distinct. It worried him that he couldn’t identify the sound. His ears were fine tuned. He could distinguish between the cry of an Elf and the cry of a human, or a Barbarian. He couldn’t think of a bird or animal he was unable to identify by sound. This was disturbing.

He could see the road through the trees when Gilly suddenly balked and half-reared, whinnying in fright. “Easy, boy,” Morghan said, patting his neck. “Stay here.” He dismounted, dropped the reins to the ground, and threw up his cowl.

He ran crouched to the nearest tree with low hanging branches and began to climb. Something was out there, and he was going to find out what it was.

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Amazon Rainforest
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Tartree and Jhultrin Vic along with their five year old daughter, Kaesel, approached the entrance to Shar on the east side of the Amazon forest. “The closer we get, the worse I feel about this,” Jhultrin commented.

“I’m not comfortable myself, but the dragon said he gave his word. I am still his son.”

“He has others,” Jhultrin reminded him, not unkindly.

“I know, but I’m still first born, and perhaps my brothers have perished.”

“Do you honestly think we can teach them about the surface dwellers?”

Tartree shrugged. “Only one way to find out.”

Jhultrin took a deep breath. “It’s odd. For the first time, I fear going underground.”

“Stay strong. I may fear my father, but I fear Zoggar and the other dragons more.”

“They are not avatars.”

“I know that now, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t listen to them. There’s more going on here than we know about. Olima hinted at it, even if she wouldn’t tell us everything. I don’t think we have a choice now.”

“Let’s get it over with,” Jhultrin said, picking up her daughter and slinging her onto her hip. They both ducked into the entrance and began the hike through the tunnel that would lead them to the center of the City of Shar.

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Mountain Pass
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Every way station was on alert after the first guard post was attacked by feral creatures. They were humanoid, but had the features of reptiles. At each of the way stations, a few paragons fell, but the number of troops on the enemy side was diminished.

By the time they reached Narissa’s Lodge, some twenty remained. Colby and Tamatha, backed by six other paragons stationed there, along with several Elven warriors staying at the Lodge to trade and deliver vegetables engaged in battle with the frightening creatures.

They were pleased to find that Balthazar’s aura burned these creatures just as it did with any of evil intent. Spears flew like rain, bouncing off their backs and hides.

Colby shouted above the din of the battle. “Aim for the necks! They are soft at the neck!”

Tamatha repeated the cry and the others took up the call, passing the word to the other fighters. Several archers began taking down creatures with arrows that previously had bounced off their hides. They had leathery wings but didn’t seem to be able to fly. Skin like scales covered their brows, arms and backs and the fronts of their legs.

Only four creatures escaped the carnage and ran, heading for the end of Pass and the last guard post. The two paragons at the guard post fought fiercely. In the end, they killed one of them and wounded another, however, one paragon was dead and one was wounded in the leg and couldn’t pursue.

Three had escaped.

Colby and the others began piling bodies for burning. He advised keeping one on ice to show those that might inquire.

“What the blazes are those things?” Tamatha asked. “Did the underworld burp them up?”

“I have no idea,” Colby said. “I’ve never seen the like. Perhaps they were demons or demi-demons.”

“Too bad we don’t have a necromancer here. They might be able to tell. They are more well-versed with the variety of creatures from the underworld.”

“We can send someone to the Mill Valley Caves and ask them to come here. Perhaps they can identify it. We need to know what we’ve got here and if there are more coming.”

“If they did escape the underworld, someone up here made that possible and that’s never a good thing,” Tamatha commented.

“Wasn’t last time, no,” Colby said ruefully, recalling his adventure with the undead over twenty years ago. He looked at Tamatha. “Check on your mother. I sent her to the root cellar to hide. Tell her its okay to come out. She’ll want to know you’re alright as well.”

“Okay,” Tamatha replied and turned to go fetch her mother. “Then I’m heading for Mill Valley. I can stop and inform Brevan on the way. We should send someone to Fair Haven as well. I’ll take Jonas with me and we’ll check on the guard post at the end of the pass.”

“May Balthazar protect you,” Colby said, hugging her. “Be careful.”

Chapter 3
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Brevan Stronghold
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The council was assembled and waiting. Brock asked them to come to his house. He didn’t want the whole village hearing this until they knew what was going to happen. The Oracle stood on Brock’s shoulder and announced, “Our Sister, Kiera, has been granted a vision by her God, Tyr. We are here to have her tell of what she saw. Please don’t interrupt until we have heard the entire recounting.”

Everyone was silent. The Oracle nodded at Kiera. “Tell us of your vision, child.”

She smiled at being called a child, and then remembered the Oracle, although she looked like a teen, was over sixty years old. “Tyr showed me a vision of horrible creatures, scaled on the brow, arms and legs and back. There was a troop of them chasing a single creature. At first, I thought it was a bird. I saw great spread white wings. Then the vision shifted and I could see her. It was a woman wearing a fine white shift. She had long, blonde hair to her waist. I sensed she was fleeing for her life. Although she could fly, she had to land periodically, as though her strength waned. That was when the creatures would howl in frenzy and try to attack her.

“She took to the air again. Then she took an arrow to the wing and her flight was erratic and blood streamed down one wing. Then the vision shifted and I saw her tumbling out of the sky. It was horrible, but I didn’t see her hit the ground, so perhaps she was able to slow her descent.

“The vision shifted again and I saw myself.” Kiera gulped.

“What were you doing?” the Oracle asked quietly.

“I was laying on hands,” she said softly.

Several looks of confusion passed among the assembled audience.

She clarified, “It is a Master Monk ability to lay our hands on the wounded, and heal sometimes but rarely a mortal wound. It is a skill rarely used and Tyr grants us this ability. To call on Tyr for his healing power to work through you is a sacred bond. Only a Master may call on Tyr for this privilege, and it is rarely done, and only in dire circumstances.”

Brock asked, “Why?”

“We cannot save everyone. Some are meant to die. Only when we are sure we should save someone are we allowed to call for his grace. Saving someone who is meant to die, against the will of the Gods, can have dire consequences for all. While we can choose to cure disease at our discretion, we try other means first. Sometimes we will heal minor cuts or bruises this way.” She paused. “But to heal a mortal wound – this is a once in a life time event. Most never do it.”

“I understand,” Kethtia said. “So normally you use other means of regular healing. It works or it doesn’t according to the will of the Gods.”

“Correct, but Tyr obviously wishes me to use this skill for this creature. He wants me to call on him. Trouble is, there was no indication of where to find her, or when. It could happen today or years from now. There is no way for me to know. The other reason it is rarely done is because it takes a lot out of the monk. You are literally channeling the healing power of a God. The Human body is not meant to withstand such power. With every use, the Human body can be diminished in strength. It takes many months to recover. This ability is so rarely used, and it is a closely guarded secret of the monks. If people knew we were able to do this …”

Kethtia nodded. “Sick people would be lining up at the gates of the Abbey,” she said.

“Yes, and we cannot do that, perform these healings on just anyone.”

“You’re sure that’s the intention?” the Oracle asked.

Kiera nodded. “I’m sure. It was very clear. I felt his desire to save this creature. That it is important that she not die. I don’t know why, but I sensed that the consequences of this creature dying would be far reaching for more than just the creature. He showed me performing the healing. I’m very sure it is his will that I do this. It is not an easy thing to do, or to be asked to do. It requires me to give myself over completely to him and be used as his instrument.”

The Oracle said, “We believe what you saw was one of a race called the Avariel. Millennia ago, they were plentiful. But they underwent a war with the Dragons. They nearly wiped each other out. In an effort to survive, the dragons retreated, and the Avariel disappeared to establish secret conclaves in aerie cliff tops far away. The Dragons were so mad, they made a deal with demons and the Dragonari were created. They are damned souls, imbued with dragon traits, like the scales you saw in your vision. They are hard to kill. The Dragons sent them to hunt the Avariel in their stead. These Dragonari are winged, but cannot fly. The Avariel were dying out, and were able to halt their decline by appealing to the demi-Goddess, Chareth. She adopted them as worshippers and helped restore their fertility, one of the things lost during the war. Grenth eventually banished the Dragonari to the underworld under pain of losing his status as one of the five Gods. There they have dwelled forever more, and the Avariel, seen now and again, faded from view. There are few but the fairies and maybe the dragons that remember they ever existed, but they did. We thought them extinct as no one has seen an Avariel in over five centuries, but I don’t know what else she could be.”

Kiera gulped. “Then if she is indeed of a dying race, I can see why Tyr would want to save her.”

Jaylar asked, “But why Tyr? Doesn’t it seem that Methandru or Sehanine who claims the Elves would come to her aide?”

The Oracle said, “But it is the Age of Cooperation, remember. The five Gods are working together and joining forces and the Avariel worship Chareth, with whom we don’t have communion. Perhaps Tyr does this to gain favor with Methandru, but I feel it is probably part of a greater plan, perhaps to bring another race into the mix. I will,” she cut off. Her head canted back and everyone went silent, watching her. Her eyes flitted back and forth behind her eyelids. When she opened them she said, “Methandru tells me there is a grand plan. For now, our mission, with your help, Kiera, is to save the one Avariel we can save. More will be revealed.”

“Then we must not fail,” Kiera said. “I must not fail.”

Garth, the only non-council member in the meeting, put his arm over Kiera’s shoulder. “But this will weaken you?”

She smiled. “I will do as my God commands, Garth. And I will recover as long as I don’t do it again for a long time, if ever again.”

“We will give you all the aid you request,” the Oracle proclaimed. Her head canted back again and after a minute or so she spoke in a flat tone, “She comes. Even now, battles are being fought on her behalf. She will be delivered to our doors.”

She shook her head and looked up again. “Kethtia, Amarisa, prepare a high standing cot with holes for wings with the softest hides you can find. Make it wide.” They nodded. The Oracle turned to Adorabelle. “You know the cliff songs?”

“Yes, they are ancient, but I studied them as my elective study.”

“Go back to the enclave, review everything you can find. We will need them.”

Tristan asked, “Cliff songs?”

The Oracle nodded. “It is the ancient speech of the Avariel. They speak in song. They can learn language quickly, but until they do, Adorabelle will have to translate.” She looked at Brock. “Choose your most trusted warriors, at least one a woman in each group, to guard the Avariel twenty-four hours a day in shifts.”

“Okay, why one woman?”

“It is said that the female Avariel were very enchanting to men. You should have four posted to guard her at all times.” Brock nodded. She looked at Kiera. “You go rest, eat and meditate to gain your strength. You will need it all and very soon, I fear.”

Kethtia said, “Well, we have our assignments. Let’s get busy.”

Brock said, “I’ll make an announcement in the square that we will have a rare visitor.”

The Oracle said, “Yes, but say nothing more until we know what’s going on – about her anyway. Tell them demi-demons have escaped the underworld and may be in pursuit, just so they are prepared in case the Dragonari attack.”

“Who let the Dragonari out? Or could they have come out on their own?” Tristan asked.

The Oracle frowned. “I do not know. But they could not have escaped on their own.”

Chapter 4
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Midnight Forest
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Ferasyl glanced back as she flew above the treetops. She was over the mountain at last. As her Goddess had predicted, the paragons of Balthazar had thinned the ranks of her pursuers from forty to three. But she couldn’t fly forever. Already she could feel the fatigue in her back and wing muscles. Eventually she had to land and rest. She could see no place to hide and the Dragonari could track her sweet scent in any case.

An arrow whistled through the air. She dodged to the side, tilting sharply, but the arrow skimmed the top of her wing. She hollered in pain as she felt the wetness of the blood streaming down her wing. Her flight became uneven and when she dodged another arrow, she lost her equilibrium. The blood loss was weakening her further and her injured wing would not respond to straighten her flight. ‘Grant me a miracle, Chareth, as I fear my journey ends here.’ As she spiraled toward the ground she shouted, “I’m sorry I failed you, my Goddess!”

She continued to pump her wings as best she could, attempting to slow her descent.

Morghan focused on the three creatures that emerged from the trees onto the road. They stopped and looked up. He followed their line of sight from his perch high in the tree and nearly gasped aloud as he saw … a … bird woman tumbling out of the sky. The creatures growled and began to cross the road, clearly waiting to track her trajectory. One was wounded with blood on his face. He didn’t know what they were, but the hair was standing up on the back of his neck. The word evil wafted across his mind. He knocked an arrow and shot at the wounded creature. His arrow went through its eye and it fell. The other two looked around frantically and separated, heading for the trees on the south side of the road.

He had no more time. The woman was about to hit the tree canopy, still frantically flapping her injured wings. Morghan stood on his branch and took a quick leap to the branch of the next tree. He heard her scream in pain as she smashed into a branch, and bounced toward him. He whistled shrilly.

“Lyssa, guide my hands!” he prayed frantically. He sighted, crouched and leaped; wrapping his left arm around her waist as he collided with her in mid-air, and yanked her to his chest. “Hold on!” he shouted. They spun, standing upright in the air. Morghan reached frantically, grabbing hold of a branch with his right arm and wrapping his elbow over it. He heard a pop and yelled in pain through clenched teeth. The branch bent to the max, wrenching his shoulder, but slowing their descent. Then it broke and they continued to fall.

Gilly came charging through the forest in response to his Master’s emergency whistle call. He jumped a fallen log in his path and crossed under the tree as Morghan jerked himself into a sitting position at the last moment and landed hard in the saddle. Ferasyl was sitting facing him. Morghan grabbed a rein and yanked Gilly to the left and up onto the road, kicking him hard. He hollered, “Hold on!”

The woman reached, snatching the other dangling rein and thrusting it into his hand. Then she wrapped her arms around his neck and buried her face in his shoulder. Her legs limberly wrapped around his waist and she crossed her ankles behind his back.

Morghan heard the creatures in pursuit as Gilly broke into a gallop. Morghan let Gilly have his head and peered over the woman’s shoulder, seeing her bloody wing. He didn’t know what she was, but those other things were bad news and wanted to kill her. If he could reach Brevan, he could reach help. He risked a glance back, saw one creature aim his bow. He nudged Gilly with one leg and knee. The horse veered just into the tree line and dodged in and around the trees. Morghan directed him back onto the road. If the horse tripped or fell in the woods, they would be doomed. After a mile, Gilly was puffing and wheezing with exertion; his body lathered. Morghan burst into the meadow below the stronghold and slowed Gilly to a lope. He hollered, “HELP! FRIENDS! I NEED AIDE!”

He heard the call from the watch tower as he loped across the meadow, seeing the gate beginning to crank open. He spoke into the woman’s ear. “We’ve reached sanctuary. Hold on, whoever you are.”

A soft moan was the only response.

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Brevan Stronghold
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Barbarians began spilling out of the gate. Now that the rush for their lives was over, Morghan felt his jarred leg, his wrenched shoulder and his bruised ribs. He swayed in the saddle as he reached the gate. Garth rushed forward and reached for the woman. She clamped tighter to Morghan. He rasped, “They will help you, lady. Trust them.” Their eyes met and he nodded. He pointed to Garth and said, “Help.”

She let go and Garth cradled her gently and laid her on the cot Kethtia and Amarisa had constructed, carefully fitting her wings through the slits in the fur covering the cot. Garth and Amarisa each lifted an end and rushed through the gate toward the med hut with Kethtia following.

“Two creatures in pursuit,” Morghan said as he slid from the saddle. “Awful, evil creatures,” he whispered, watching the ground swirl around him. As his feet hit the ground, he fainted.

Alec leapt forward and caught him under the arms. Lanna shouted, “Carry him to the med hut.”

Brock shouted, “Remos, get his mount. Torin, Sogarth, Tyson, you’re with me. Marina, Agnes, watch the gate.”

The men followed Brock into the meadow toward the road. Before they reached it, two creatures appeared. One shot an arrow; the other chucked a metal throwing star with incredible speed. Brock side-stepped, whacking the throwing star with his sword. Torin dodged the arrow. Three battle cries and one shout rent the air and they charged the creatures. The creatures were fast. Nilex cast a duplication spell on Tyson and Sogarth. Pandora cast a blur spell on Brock and Torin. More arrows and throwing stars were deflected. When they reached striking distance, the creatures drew tridents.

The warriors’ swords hit their bodies, bouncing back with a bone jarring bang. Tyson nicked one on the chin and saw blood as the creature roared. He hollered, “The face and neck!”

Brock dodged a blow, parried a spin strike and then struck hard at the creature’s neck, feeling relief and satisfaction as its head flew off and rolled across the ground.

Torin nicked the other one on the back of the neck, but it was fast and jerked out of the way at the last second. As it spun to meet his next swing, Sogarth struck from the rear and cut into his neck. The creature’s head flopped but was still attached. It fell at his feet.

Tyson panted out, “What in the name of hell are those things?”

Brock sighed. “Exactly, hell spawns. These are the underworld demon creatures we warned about.”

He shuddered. “Nasty,” he commented, making a face.

Sogarth suggested, “I think we should burn these bodies. They even smell foul.”

“I agree,” Brock said. They built a fire at the edge of the meadow and threw the bodies into the flames. “Torin and Sogarth – stay here till they are ash. Stay sharp in case there are more coming. I have to get back and check on Morghan and the … Elf.”

Tyson snorted. “That was more than an Elf.”

“Yes, but please keep it to yourself till we know more.”

“My lips are sealed,” Tyson promised.

Xxxxxxxxxx

Meanwhile, Kethtia and Amarisa worked on stemming bleeding on the woman’s arms and legs from various cuts and disinfecting scrapes. Lanna wrapped Morghan’s ribs, and enlisted Mara and Jack to help her reposition his dislocated shoulder. Then they treated the cuts and scrapes on his hands and arms.

Guards were posted outside the med hut with instructions to let no one in except Brock, Garth and Kiera or a requested person from Kethtia. Rachelle and Dean were in the first guard group for a four hour shift. Agnes would join the second and Valasca the third, as per the Oracle’s instructions to have a woman in each group.

Kethtia palpated the woman’s stomach. “This is bad – she has internal bleeding. Her stomach is hard.”

Kiera approached the bed and gazed down at the beautiful woman. The woman peered up at her and smiled sadly. Softly she said, “Nil me go maith.” I’m not good.

Kiera didn’t understand the words exactly, but she got the sentiment. Softly, she said, “But not beyond Tyr’s help.” With that, Kiera straddled the woman gently. She placed one hand gently on her breastbone and one on her forehead. She looked around at the assembled group and said, “You must not touch me if there is a glow on my hands or body; no matter what happens.” She looked pointedly at Garth. “Do you understand? No matter what happens.”

He swallowed hard, a frown of worry on his face, but he nodded.

“Unprepared, Tyr’s might could kill you. I will have to go into a deep trance to bear it myself. You must NOT touch me until the glow is gone.”

Kethtia said, “We promise. Do your best.”

They watched as she closed her eyes, took deep breaths, putting herself in a deep trance. When she finally spoke, her voice was firm and clear. “Tyr! Hear the call of your righteous servant! Lend your healing power to your servant’s hands. Let me be the vessel of your might to save this rare woman. I surrender my body and soul to you. Use your faithful servant to heal this woman.”

Her body began to tremble and her head hung forward. “Aaahhh!” she shouted as her hands began to waver. A bright yellow glow began at her head and spread around her torso like an aura. Then it began to ripple down her arms. She cried out and threw her head back, her mouth open in a rictus of agony.

Garth leaned forward, gritting his teeth. Lanna and Amarisa each grabbed one arm, holding him in place. “You can’t!” Amarisa hissed.

“Amarisa, oh Goddess,” he whispered.

“I know,” she said with sympathy. “But you’re no good to her injured or dead. That’s what will happen if you touch her. She’s going to need you after this, Garth. You’ll have to care for her. Hold onto that. She will need you later. You can’t help her now. None of us can.”

He nodded but couldn’t take his eyes off her. He twinged and jerked every time she shouted, trembled or made of face of pain. The woman on the stretcher sang out in high pitched wails no one could understand and writhed on the bed. She convulsed and thrashed her arms. Kiera rode her body when she bucked into the air.

Little by little, they could see the yellow glow draining out of Kiera and trickling into the woman, funneled by Kiera’s hands. After a heart-wrenching half hour, Kiera gave a final shout. The last of the glow left her arms through her hands, entering the woman’s body.

“Done,” she whispered, lifting her hands from the woman’s body. She swayed and tumbled off the edge of the cot to the floor, unconscious. Amarisa and Lanna let go of Garth as he lunged forward, scooping her up and carrying her to a free cot.

Kiera warned, “Don’t touch the woman yet. If the glow was dangerous in Kiera, it probably is on her too. We must wait for it to fade to examine her.”

Lanna began wiping the sweat from Kiera’s face and arms with a cool cloth. “Help me get her undressed,” she instructed. Jack turned his back. Garth held her steady and sat her up as Lanna removed her robes and shift along with her slippers.

“Why is she unconscious?” Garth asked.

Kethtia said, “Her body must renew itself. She just channeled the power of a God, Garth. You must be patient.”

Jaylar flew to her cot and pressed his hand to her forehead. He took a reading and then turned to Garth. “She is alright, just utterly exhausted in mind and body. She must rest. She will have pain when she awakens. All her muscles were strained to the max. Some were torn. But she will recover if she does no re-injury to herself and nothing strenuous for some time.”

“How long?” Garth asked.

Jaylar shrugged. “As long as it takes,” he said solemnly.

Morghan was waking from his own ordeal. Lanna covered Kiera to preserve her modesty. “What?” he mumbled, confused. He sat up suddenly, groaned, grasped his ribs and flopped back down.

Jack rushed to him. “Morghan, you must lie still. Your shoulder was dislocated and you broke some ribs in addition to various cuts and scrapes. Your right hand is scraped raw on the palm.”

Morghan lifted his bandaged hand, looking at it as if it belonged to someone else. “Terrific,” he mumbled, letting it fall to the bed. “Does she live?” he asked tentatively. “That beautiful winged creature?”

Kethtia answered, “Yes she does, thanks to Kiera, and you, of course.” She pointed at her unconscious form on the cot next to his.

“A monk?” he asked. “How?”

“Yes, she did a laying on of hands. It is rarely done. The most powerful ability in their arsenal.”

“What is it?”

“She channeled the healing power of Tyr. Only a favored Master Monk can even hope to have Tyr respond to heal a mortal wound. He used her body to transfer his power. That’s a secret, by the way. They don’t want that to be common knowledge – that they can do that. You know how to keep a secret, don’t you, rogue?”

Morghan snorted. “I’m an expert at keeping secrets. Holy Lyssa. What has it done to her?”

“She will be several months in recovery. We don’t know how long.”

“Those evil creatures?” he asked.

“Dead.”

“Good,” he responded.

“Rest,” Kethtia said. “Brock will want to hear you story, as will the Oracle, but you must regain your strength first.” They gave him tea for the pain and he fell asleep again. Meanwhile, they carefully examined the Avariel. She was unconscious but her wing was fully healed and her abdomen was supple, showing no sign of the internal bleeding they’d seen before. The large purple bruises were gone. They carefully washed the blood off her wing and gave her a sponge bath while she remained unconscious.

Tamatha arrived with news of the battles in the Pass, only to find out Morghan had been injured. She stayed at his bedside until he was able to move around. She’d left Jonas at the guard post after they treated the wounded paragon and buried the other one. Their explanation of the Dragonari made her flight to the Mill Valley no longer urgent, but she still felt they might be able to help contain them.

After two days, Morghan was released from the med hut and recounted his story of killing one creature, and literally snatching the woman from her fatal trajectory. He was told what she was and their history was recounted.

Garth brought Kiera back to their home. He refused to let her lift anything or do anything. He carried her to the tub and bathed her, finally letting her walk from the bed to the couch but only with his help in case she were to weaken and fall.

Kiera was quite sure every muscle in her body ached. Every movement was painful. “I ache in places I didn’t know I had muscles,” she had joked.

Despite his tendency to hover, Kiera was grateful for Garth’s understanding. He went to the square and returned with all her meals, keeping a pot of tea available all the time, and scoured the village, borrowing books from everyone so she would have something to read to occupy herself.

Brock had relieved him of all duties until Kiera was fully recovered. Jack stocked their kitchen with pain-relieving teas.

Chapter 5
Xxxxxxxxxxx
Brevan Stronghold
Xxxxxxxxxx

Adorabelle visited the Avariel once she became conscious on the third day. She stood next to her hip and pointed to herself as the shamans, Morghan and the Oracle looked on. “Adorabelle,” she announced. Then she pointed to the Elf. “Cad is ainm duit?” she asked. What is your name? “Name?”

The Elf seemed fascinated with the fairy and smiled. She pointed to herself and sang out, “Ferasyl.” Then she pointed to Morghan and asked, “Name?”

Morghan’s smile nearly split his face. “Morghan,” he said clearly. The Elf stood slowly and approached him. She lifted his hands with hers and kissed the back of each one. “Oh!” he breathed out.

“Tapadh leat,” she said. Thank you.

Adorabelle said, “She said thank you.”

Morghan replied, “You’re welcome.”

Adorabelle informed her, “I speak some Cliffsong.”

Ferasyl sat on the bed and asked, “An bhean?” The woman?

Adorabelle answered, “Bhean me ar gorthiuthe.” Woman is injured.

“Conas?” How?

Adorabelle said in Cliffsong, “She channeled the healing power of her God, Tyr. She is a powerful servant of Tyr. We call them monks.” She turned to the others and said in common, “She is asking about Kiera.” She turned back to Ferasyl. “Feic ta?” See her? “She will be weak for many weeks. It is a strain on the body. Her husband is caring for her.”

“Name?” Ferasyl asked, latching on to the one word she now knew.

“Kiera.”

“Sasta feic.” Please see.

Tristan joined them outside the med hut. Valasca was there as well, with Samuel and Wolfer. Along with Wolfer, Kethtia and Morghan, they escorted her to Garth and Kiera’s home. Tristan knocked and Garth answered the door.

Adorabelle said, “Ferasyl would like to see Kiera. I think she wishes to thank her.”

Garth waved them in. “Her name is Ferasyl?” he asked.

“Yes,” Tristan answered.

“Name?” Ferasyl asked, pointing to Garth.

“Garth,” he said, nodding.

“Ceile?” Ferasyl asked.

“Yes, husband. Name for life-mate,” Adorabelle explained.

Ferasyl bowed to him. “Ki-era?” she asked carefully.

Garth strode into the bedroom, told Kiera she had a visitor and scooped her up and carried her into the living room, placing her on the couch.

Ferasyl knelt before her, bowed her head and took her hands, kissing each one.

Kiera smiled. “You’re welcome.”

“How do you say, ‘heal’?” Ferasyl asked Adorabelle.

“Heal,” Adorabelle replied in common.

She pointed at Kiera. “Heal,” she said, pointing at herself. Then she pointed at herself. “Heal,” she said, and pointed to Kiera.

“She will heal,” Adorabelle said.

Ferasyl switched to her own language and said, “No, I will repay for her sacrifice. I will heal her.”

“You can do that?” Adorabelle asked.

“What?” Garth asked.

“She wants to heal Kiera, or try anyway,” Adorabelle translated.

“It is not necessary,” Kiera protested.

“Let me try,” Ferasyl said.

“She wants to try,” Adorabelle said when everyone looked to her for translation.

“Okay,” Kiera said.

Ferasyl motioned her to lie down and Garth helped her. She then knelt next to the couch and put one hand on her pelvis and another on her collar bone and began to sing. The sound was magical and nearly mesmerizing. Kiera felt a soothing ripple wash through her muscles and she sighed with relief. For the next ten minutes, strength and soothing waves of power washed through her.

At last, Ferasyl became quiet. Kiera sat up carefully, stretching her arms and lifting her legs. She stood slowly and smiled. “I’m still shaky and weak but all the soreness is gone!” she exclaimed.

Xxxxxxxxxx

The council met at Brock and Kethtia’s home.

“What happened in there?” Brock asked.

Kethtia said, “I’m unsure, except to say that she healed most of the strain on Kiera’s system and healed her battered muscles.”

The Oracle nodded. “Kethtia is correct. From what Adorabelle can discern, she has repaired most of the damage to her torn muscles and ligaments. Kiera is still weak. It will take time to regain her strength but she is no longer in danger of more injury if she exercises, and certainly no longer an invalid, which she may have been for months without the healing.”

Bamba chuckled. “She wanted to see if she could do her morning exercises.”

Adorabelle’s laugh tinkled around the room. “Fear not. Garth will make sure she doesn’t strain herself and sticks to the regimen of gradual activity build up that Ferasyl recommended. I explained it to him carefully.

Tristan grinned. “She may not like it but if she gets stubborn, he can just toss her over his shoulder.”

Amarisa said, “I sympathize with her. She is used to being active. She was already going crazy.”

“So now what?” Garos asked.

Adorabelle said, “I will continue to try and find out why she came and what she wants.”

The Oracle said, “Very well, let me know when you have new information and we’ll meet again.

Adorabelle turned to Valasca. “Could you ask Marcella for some remedial language texts or books? I think she would learn quickly and if I can teach her common, even a little, it will speed up our communication.” Marcella was the head school mistress that taught all the children to read and write and do their sums.

“I’m on it,” Valasca said. “I’ll go see her now.”

Chapter 6
Xxxxxxxxxx
Brevan Stronghold
Garth/Kiera’s Home
Xxxxxxxxxx

Garth sighed as he entered the kitchen. “Just what do you think you’re doing?” he asked, seeing her kneeling on the kitchen counter reaching for the upper cupboards. He snatched her by the waist and set her on her feet.

Kiera turned, her mouth set in a stubborn line. “I was going to bake some cookies.”

“I’ll get you something from Mabel if you want something sweet.”

“Garth, I’m not an invalid. I have to do things if I’m going to get strong again.”

“Yes, and you will, exactly what the shamans and the Avariel prescribed – and nothing more until I’m convinced you won’t permanently injure yourself again.”

“I wasn’t permanently injured in the first place!” she cried.

“Kiera, please. I know this is hard and you are used to being self-reliant but you must take care for just a little while longer. Please,” he begged.

“I’m all right, Garth.”

“You’re not! Not yet! Damn it, Kiera. I know how much that took out of you.

“I can’t stand it!” she shouted, stomping her foot.

He approached her and lifted her gently to set her on the counter and stepped between her legs. He palmed her face. “I know I can’t even imagine what you went through, but please realize how hard that was for me to watch you endure that agony. I’m not used to being helpless either, and there wasn’t a damn thing I could do for you. I just found you. I wouldn’t be able to stand it if something happened to you. And I don’t want you to overdo and end up a diminished version of yourself just because you got bored and decided you must wield a mace or something before you are ready.”

“I’m sorry – I know I’ve been a burden,” she said sullenly.

“No! You misunderstand. I was glad to be able to do something for you. It was no burden. I know you have relied on yourself for many years but you have me now. You don’t have to do it alone – or even fight every battle yourself anymore. Don’t you understand? We are a team now and you are my heart, Kiera. Seeing you hurt, I hurt. I love you so much.”

“I hate feeling so weak,” she admitted. “I hadn’t thought about how hard this was for you. I’m sorry.” She paused. “And I love you too.”

“It’s temporary. Now, they did say you could walk as much as you want as long as you have no trouble breathing. So how about we go have dinner in the square tonight, okay?”

“Okay,” she said quietly.

He kissed her gently. “I love you. Please don’t make me fight you to keep you healthy. I remember you told me that not every battle is on the battlefield. Some are fought between your heart and your mind. You have nothing to prove to anyone in this village, and least of all to me. That Avariel would have died without you and everyone knows it. But as you healed her, now you must heal yourself. That will take more patience than you’re used to enduring – but it’s just another battle to be won in here,” he said, tapping her temple.

“I’m very patient,” she protested.

He laughed. “Yes, with everyone but yourself. It’s time to start treating yourself as well as you do everyone else. It will be a challenge for you, but I’m confident you can do it.”

She looked at him suspiciously. “You don’t think I can take it slow and easy, do you?”

He shrugged. “I guess we’ll find out.”

“I know what you’re trying to do,” she stated firmly.

“What’s that?” he asked innocently.

“Make this a challenge so I do it just to prove you wrong, to prove that I can.”

“Perhaps, but it beats the alternative,” he replied.

“Which is?”

“I can become a bully again.”

“You wouldn’t dare!” she said.

“Try me,” he said, grinning.

She huffed. “Oh, alright. Let’s walk to dinner.”

The next night, he returned to the house and presented her with a two-level step stool. On the top stair, burned into the wood, it read, ‘Kiera’s Dilemma’. She couldn’t stay mad at him and laughed so hard it exhausted her. He left it in the kitchen so she wouldn’t climb on the counters to reach the upper cupboards anymore.

Xxxxxxxxxx

The ensuing weeks were active. Brock sent riders to Mill Valley, Meadow Abbey, Ocelot and Fair Haven, requesting that trusted representatives come to discuss an important new threat to the mountain. They trickled in over the next couple of weeks, anxiously awaiting information. The messengers had been purposely vague about this new threat.

Duvan and Cyrida arrived after Bamba brought them a message to come at once. Ellory and Flynx also appeared. Tamatha had ridden to Mill Valley and requested that someone be sent to represent the necromancers, hinting that their unique skills would probably be required, then she made haste to the city where she informed Kashmir and Lyzea Tahl of the recent events, reported on Morghan and the reason for his absence. She then went to the King, who at once sent her to retrieve Jonas and represent them at this summit. He would send two more paragons with them to take up post at the last guard gate on the pass so the injured paragon, Dan, would not be alone in his convalescence with an injured leg.

Meanwhile, Marcella, a handsome woman with a straight forward manner began to teach the common tongue to Ferasyl. They began with simple words for objects, naming everything they could see, spelling it out and working on the pronunciation until she had it correct. Then they ventured outside and the lessons continued. This was followed with hours of learning sentence structure.

“What about learning Elven?” Kethtia had asked one day.

Marcella had frowned at her. “One language at a time, common is the one that is the most use to her now. She can understand as many people and races as possible with it. If she wishes, we can find an Elven instructor later, but I don’t wish to muddy her understanding right now.”

Kethtia bowed to her expertise and reasoning and left the subject for a later date. Something told her that the Avariel were more closely related to the Elves than to humans or Barbarians, and that knowing the Elven language was going to be important, but Jaylar advised her to hold her council for now. They couldn’t rush, no matter the seeming urgency of this discovery.

Finally, Ferasyl knew enough common to converse in stilted sentences with Adorabelle and Marcella. In order not to overwhelm her, each day, one woman was brought in to talk to her and tell her of their profession or discuss their customs and ways of doing things. She was a fast learner and seemed fascinated. She absorbed knowledge like a sponge.

One day, she boldly asked if Morghan was still in the village and why they had kept him away.

Adorabell’s tinkling laughter confused the others. “They thought he would frighten you, that men might frighten you, darling.”

Ferasyl gave such a poignant look of confusion that sent Adorabelle into another gale of giggling. “I shall send for him at once. Be right back.”

Ferasyl was staying with Garth and Kiera in their spare bedroom. Guards were still posted outside the house. While she had expressed a desire to fly, they had advised against it, saying they didn’t know what enemies were about yet, and wanted to ensure her safety. The less people who saw her for now, the better. She seemed upset by this but acquiesced.

Chapter 7
Xxxxxxxxxx
Brevan Stronghold
Garth/Kiera’s Home
Xxxxxxxxxx

Morghan entered the house slowly. He was dressed in his usual black linen shirt, black pants and boots and gray cloak. His soft black hair fell away from his face and hung in soft waves to below his collar. He removed his cloak upon entering, throwing it over the back of chair and gracefully lowered himself into it, facing her and the couch on which she sat. She smiled fully and gazed at him.

He felt his own answering smile and allowed his eyes to dance over her beautiful form. She was slender and willowy, although she had the high, plump breasts of a girl. Her face was a perfect oval with a cupid bow mouth and large eyes set wide apart that looked blue one minute and green the next, depending on the light. Her hair fell in long big waves down her back to below her waist. He cleared his throat. “You asked to see me?”

She smiled again. “Yes, I wanted to thank you again, in your own language for saving me from those dreadful Dragonari.”

He smiled. “You’re welcome. I was glad to do it. They radiated evil.”

“You sense such things?” she asked, slightly amazed.

He nodded. “Yes, I always have. I have a very keen sense of danger. It’s a natural ability that was sharpened and honed to a fine edge by my teacher, who taught me to be an honorable rogue.”

“Well, it served you on that day and me as well. I am forever in your debt.”

“No, not so. You owe me nothing. That you are alive and speaking with me is reward a plenty,” he replied graciously.

Everyone else had slowly drifted out of the house, leaving them alone. She stood and he now noticed that her hair did indeed reach below her buttocks to tops of her thighs. Why this fascinated him so much, he wasn’t sure. She was about four feet, ten inches tall and very petite. He stood to face her. At five feet, ten inches, he was much taller.

“We have a way of expressing our inner most feelings. It has not been used on one outside our kind for some many centuries, but if you would allow, I would like to convey this to you.”

He scrunched his brow. “I’m afraid I don’t understand.”

She smiled and stepped up to him, gently placing her hands on his biceps. He raised his arms to cradle her forearms and grasped her elbows lightly. “Lean down and touch my forehead with yours. Close your eyes,” she whispered.

He did, in perfect trust. A warm glow descended over him. He stiffened as the scene of her flight flashed before his inner eye. He could sense her weariness, her fright, and later her pain. Then came his death defying leap from the tree. The sense that she had been granted a miracle from her Goddess. The fear was till there, but he sensed her feeling of solace, hope and safety as his arms had wrapped around her and cradled her as gently as their frantic flight would allow. He heard his own words repeated to her and the sense that she didn’t know the words, but had caught the meaning. He was there to help. Then his assurance that the large ones would help also, they were friends.

After all this came the crushing sense of awareness after being healed, the fright, and then the instant relaxing upon seeing him there and knowing she was still among good people. Then came an overwhelming, almost suffocating sense of gratitude that he had risked his life for her. This was followed by a gentle reverence for his skill and under that lay a soft tension of attraction. He huffed in amazement and then felt it flower. He felt her fascination with his face and form; his lean build and broad shoulders and under that a romantic attraction that had little to do with what he had done and more to do strictly with the physical. She was acutely aware of him as a man – not of her species – but a man, nonetheless. His olive skin and dark hair and gray eyes fascinated her, being so completely opposite from her fair skin and hair and eyes.

He was released from the spell suddenly, but the dream-like quality persisted. Without thought, he had leaned forward and laid his mouth over hers. His arms wound around her waist and he lifted her off the floor, anchoring her to his chest. Her mouth tasted like strawberries and her plump lips responded, pulling gently on his. She had a glorious sweet scent that made him shiver and want to inhale deeply.

He moaned gently and felt his body tighten with arousal. This snapped him out of his trance and he pulled back, nearly staggering as he set her on her feet. He glanced at her face which was flushed, the color high in her cheeks. “Holy Lyssa, woman.”

“Why do you pull away?”

“Because I’m alone with you here. You are vulnerable, and it’s not proper,” he stammered.

She smiled. “Not because you find me unattractive?”

“Heavens, no! How could you say such a thing? Even think it? You’re the most beautiful, enthralling creature I’ve ever laid eyes on,” he blurted out.

“I find you beautiful as well,” she said softly. “What is proper? Have no fear for me, Morghan. My kind is small, but I am a woman full-grown.”

“No doubt. Are we even compatible in that way – species, and all that?” he asked, feeling terribly off balance, and not liking it one bit.

She laughed softly. “Of course, as much as Elves and Humans are compatible, that is why I was sent here.”

“What? To find men?”

She smiled. “And women. My race is dying. We must integrate if we are to survive. But choosing you has nothing to do with that, per se. Although it does suit my purposes.”

“I think you should talk to the council. This is way beyond my ken to understand or do anything about. They will help you, to the best of their ability – the Barbarians, I mean. They are known for their generosity, and goodness of spirit.”

“I’m counting on it. My Goddess said it would be so.”

“I don’t understand what that’s got to do with me. I brought you here, maybe by some grand design, for all I know, and I am glad that you feel gratitude, but don’t do this because you feel you owe me some debt. That would be beyond anything I could endure.”

She smiled again and her hands cupped his face. “Morghan,” she whispered, with that strange lilting accent. He couldn’t help but love the sound of her musical voice. “My attraction to you has nothing to do with obligation.”

“Because you feel safe with me because I rescued you?” he ventured gently.

She shook her head. “No, because I find you very attractive. I am drawn to you as I have never been drawn to another.”

“Oh Goddess help me.”

She smiled then, a bit slyly. “She may be.”

He huffed again and shook his head, trying to think clearly. That was difficult with her standing her so near. “You’ve got me completely addled, I must confess,” he said finally.

“I will leave off for now, then. I don’t wish to cause you distress. We will talk again later. However, I wanted you to know how I felt about you.”

“I’m in trouble,” he whispered.

“Why is that?” she asked innocently.

“Because I could fall in love with you in a heart beat, and I’m not so sure that’s what is best for you.”

She positively grinned then. “Oh, that would be very good for me.”

A knock sounded at the door at that time, putting an end to the conversation.

Chapter 8
xxxxxxxxxx
City of Shar
Xxxxxxxxxx

Tartree and Jhultrin didn’t really know what to expect. They heard the noise of the main square before they entered it from the long tunnel that had taken them below ground. Kacey, as she was affectionately called, clung to her mother, perched on her hip, her eyes wide. “You remember what we told you?” Jhultrin whispered to her.

She nodded. “If things go badly, run back out the tunnel and seek out Vincenza Ardul.”

“Exactly. You have everything in your backpack that you need to survive for several weeks.”

“I understand, but it won’t come to that,” she said confidently, her small piping voice a whisper.

“It won’t?” Tartree asked. Early on, since she could talk, in fact, they both realized that their child was special. She ‘knew’ things without being told and was wise beyond her years.

“No, it will be fine. I’ll let you know if I think that is changing,” she said frankly.

Jhultrin gave her a squeeze and they stepped into the noise and lights of the square. It was as they remembered, bustling with activity. Blacksmiths, jewelry makers, leather smiths, and all manner of artisans were hawking their products. They took a deep breath, and proceeded to walk down the center square. Tartree kept his hand on his sword hilt, despite his daughter’s warning and his senses were finely tuned for any trouble.

No one seemed to take notice of them, the intrepid trio, all wearing backpacks and subdued buckskins. Unlike most, they were not in the dark blue or black favored of the Drow. They crossed the square without incident and headed for the main gates of House Vic.

Once there, two guards blocked their way. “Hold! Who comes?”

Tartree cleared his throat. “Would you tell Naricon that his son has arrived?”

“What? Kalai! Is it really you, Tartree?”

Tartree peered at the man in the sparse light. His eyes had adjusted again to being underground, but they were no longer sharp in the dim light as they had once been. “Belgar?” he asked. The man was an old friend of his father’s, and about the same age. He’d aged, his hair turning silver rather than the pure white of the young. His face was more lined and there were a couple more scars on his cheeks and neck, but he was still hale and hearty.

“Ah boy, it’s good to see you.”

“Yes, it is I, with my wife and child. I don’t wish to attract attention, Belgar. Can you get us inside quickly.”

“Of course!” He motioned to the other guard who unlocked the gate and he hustled them through, following them to the front door. He rapped twice, then twice again, then once and then opened the door.

A maid flew into the hallway and stopped short. “Mitchie Belgar?” she asked, eyeing the other three of them with suspicion. ‘Michie’ was an informal title of respect to a superior.

“Padme, this is Tartree, come home at last. Let’s get them settled in rooms, shall we? I’ll call for Master Vic.”

“Oh! Of course, we’ve had rooms ready for months. Come! Come!” she waved them to follow her, her whole attitude changing.

They followed her up a long flight of stairs, at once familiar and now foreign and were shown into a suite of rooms, containing two bedrooms, a bath, and common area with a fireplace, couches, chairs and tables. She helped them off with their backpacks, asked if they needed help unpacking. They declined. “Do you need anything else, young Master?” she asked.

He smiled at her. “Padme, was it?” he asked.

“Yes, young Master.”

“Think the kitchen can rustle us up some lunch? Something hot, perhaps some soup and bread and cheese. We’ve had nothing but cold traveling food for days.”

“Of course. I’ll see to that right away. Anything else?”

“No that’s all. Thank you, Padme.”

She bowed and nodded, seeming confused by his thanks and fled the room as if the back of her dress was on fire. Tartree chuckled and shook his head. Jhultrin sighed and plopped down on one of the couches, looking around. “It hasn’t changed much.”

“No. I didn’t really expect that it had. We’re far from out of the woods, though.”

“Oh, I know. Meeting with your father will be the real test. He’s always hated me because I stole you away.”

“He blamed you unfairly, I imagine. I left of my own free will. And the Xun’s have no love of me either, remember.”

“We’ll just have to wait and see.”

Kacey looked up and turned toward the door. “He comes,” she said simply.

They both leaped to their feet and waited. A sharp knock was heard and then door swung open without waiting for a reply. A tall man with white hair, silver at the temples entered. He was clothed in black tunic and breeches, with a deep, dark purple velvet overcoat that hung to his knees and was belted at the waist.

Tartree’s hand went to his sword hilt. The man looked at him, then Jhultrin and then at Kacey. Then he smirked and raised an eyebrow looking at Tartree’s hand on the hilt of his sword. Tartree slowly lowered his hand and let his arms hang casually at his side, but he was ready for trouble.

He turned to stare at the little girl again. “Hello,” he said.

“Hello, grandfather. That’s a smart looking frock you’ve got there.”

He appeared startled, but then threw back his head and laughed. Tartree and Jhultrin both relaxed a bit. “What’s your name, child?” he asked.

“Kaesel Vincenza Vic, but my friends call me Kacey,” she said pluckily.

“Delightful.” He turned to Tartree. “I’m glad you’re home, son.”

“I came at Olima’s urging, but I’m far from comfortable.”

He nodded. “Well, we’ll have to work on that. I promise we mean you no harm, just the opposite in fact.” He turned to Jhultrin. “Hello, Jhultrin Xun.”

“Jhultrin Vic,” she corrected in a mild voice.

Tartree’s eyes widened, unsure if it was wise to provoke his father so quickly.

Naricon merely smiled again, one side of his mouth rising in that particular smirk he always had since he was a young man. “Yes, indeed. You are now a Vic and will be treated as such.”

“What does that mean?” she asked.

He sighed. “No harm will come to you here, or to my precocious granddaughter.”

“I’m relieved to hear it.”

He nodded. “We have much to discuss, but now is not the time. Perhaps after you’ve eaten and gotten a chance to change into some more suitable clothes.”

It was Tartree’s turn to smirk. “These are my clothes, although I wouldn’t mind some clean ones.”

Naricon raised his eyebrow and looked him up and down. He appeared about to say something but then said, “Very well. I’ll await you in my study. After you’ve eaten and rested, come to me at your leisure.”

With that, he turned on his heel and left, his two bodyguards that had lingered outside the door, turned and followed him. The door closed behind him and Tartree said, “Well, that could have gone worse.”

Jhultrin took a deep breath and said, “Yes, it could have.”

Kacey said, “You both worry too much.”

“What do you mean?”

“He’s afraid of you, Daddy. You must use that.”

“Afraid of me? Why? Use it how?”

“He fears Olima and he knows you have her favor. He wants her favor for the house, and knows that pleasing you, and through you is the only way to get it. Although he knows news of your return as predicted by Olima will spread through the city like wild fire, he knows that while this may raise his status here in the City, it doesn’t do much with Olima. He must keep us safe, for at least a year, as he promised her.”

Tartree nodded. “Ah yes, how could I have forgotten? So we are safe for now.”

Jhultrin shrugged. “As safe as we can be. There are still dangers from others, but I think we are safe from family intrigue and plots at the very least. If we stay indoors as much as possible, it at least buys us time to get acclimated here again.”

“I hear you. Okay, I need food and then I need a bath and sleep.”

“Me too,” Kacey said, wrinkling her nose. “I stink.”

They both laughed and went to peel off their dirty traveling clothes and find something clean.

Chapter 9
Xxxxxxxxxx
Brevan Stronghold
Xxxxxxxxxx

Adorabelle sat cross-legged at the foot of Ferasyl’s bed. “So what you’re telling me is that while we thought you were extinct, you’ve been merely hiding and trying to breed like bunnies without much success.”

Ferasyl’s tinkling laughter floated around the room. “Yes, that pretty much sums it up. Our people are losing faith. We know we are in danger of dying out. There are too few bloodlines now and those are hopelessly entangled. Without new blood, we are doomed. There are three major houses left; The Whites, The Blacks, and The Greys. There is a minor house, The Reds, and a few mixed children, but …” She shook her head.

“I take it the houses are denoted by the color of the wings?”

“Yes. My house is the largest, but even we are only some fifty or so left, sixty or seventy if you count the mixed children.”

“What color are they?”

“Some have pink, some have a muted gray or black, some even a mix of hues. Bottom line, there are two few of us to repopulate our race. We have lived in fear for centuries, hiding in our cliffs. It is time to venture forth into the world and make our last stand. We will die or we will repopulate, that is what it comes down to.”

“I see. I will consult with the Oracle and see if she can get any further guidance from Methandru. In the meantime, you are safest here with the Barbarians.”

“I’ve no wish to leave just yet, but at some point, I must carry back information to my people.”

“I understand. Let me call the council and see what we can come up with for ideas.”

Xxxxxxxxxx

The council met in huge walled in pavilion that had been built the previously summer for such gatherings. Witfar Cythril and Casdon Sina represented the Mill Valley Caves, Erlvis Glade represented the Meadow Abbey along with Kiera. Cooper and Katrina Shol represented Fair Haven, and Tamatha McKent and Jonas Otho represented the King and the City of Maruk. Colleen and Neowald Gvane represented the Womb of Methandru. Shania Took, a half-elven Ritualist had arrived with Brunus Kak, a half-orc, representing Ocelot. Although not familiar with the half-Orcs, no one was more surprised than Brunus at how easily they had accepted his presence. A greeting and kiss on both cheeks from Adonna had sealed his acceptance.

Of course, Mabel and Kendall were there, having been brought onto the council.
Once assembled, the council and their guests yielded the floor to Ferasyl. She proceeded in halting, but eloquent common, to put forth the plight of her people and explain the danger of Dragonari who were forever out to erase the Avariel. She told of their strengths and weaknesses. A long discussion ensued, first talking of how to help the Avariel and find them a safe place to dwell where they could, nevertheless, interact with other inhabitants of Morin and the Forsaken Mountain.

Secondly, they discussed the Dragonari and how they may have come to be ‘top-side’, as the necromancers called it. It was determined that someone had to have created the breach that allowed them to enter from the underworld. This was good and bad. It meant that the Ritualists had free reign to call on all spirits from the ether, including the martyrs to fight them.

The down side was that they had a rogue evil sorcerer or necromancer on their hands. He would have to be sought out and eliminated. This meant involving the residents of Morin as the Dragonari had first appeared there, which meant their errant evil sorcerer was most probably in Morin.

Ellory and Duvan and their spouses volunteered to go to Morin and solicit the help of the dragons to find this evil sorcerer. Cyrida would be crucial to this trip in that she would be able to possibly foil the Dragonari and/or the sorcerer should he be found. She admitted that she would not want to be alone in this event, however. Witfar and Casdon immediately volunteered to make the trip with them.

Cooper and Katrina agreed introduce the Avariel to the residents of Fair Haven and give them safe shelter whenever they needed it. In the meantime, Kendall and Mabel agreed to take a trip to Morin and enlist the dwarves to possibly come to this side of the mountain and begin construction of aeries on this side of the mountain. They would travel there with the rest, and have an escort of dwarves on their return. After a long discussion, people were assigned to scout the mountain range for a suitable area. Kendall suggested the dwarves were best able to do this, knowing the mountain the best and knowing where the most stable areas were for carving into the mountain face. Deciding on a location was put off until the dwarves could come to examine this side of the mountain.

Meanwhile, should any Avariel wish to migrate here and stay in Brevan or Fair Haven to oversee these activities, they would be escorted by Barbarians and mages for protection. Meadow Abbey offered sanctuary as well along with the Womb of Methandru. Both agreed to help the supply the residents with all manner of things to set up their new living quarters once the time came.

Kashmir and Lyzea didn’t fail to notice that Ferasyl sat close to Morghan throughout and he whispered explanations to her of some of things being discussed when she got confused and couldn’t keep up. She gazed at him with adoration and he wore an expression of indulgent amusement and fascination almost constantly.

Kashmir pulled him aside after the conference and told him his sole assignment was to guard Ferasyl and make sure she came to no harm, regardless of what the others did. He eagerly accepted the assignment, knowing that his boss was being generous and giving him an official excuse to stay on with Ferasyl. He’d dreaded being recalled to the City to take up his duties for the guild.

Kashmir had ended the conversation by saying, “Morghan, guard your heart.”

Morghan had admitted, “It may already be too late for that.”

Kashmir nodded. “I realize that, but in any case, don’t let that distract you from attention to danger. There is nothing more distracting than a woman. I know, I’ve been there. I’d known her two days when Lyzea saved my ass from a corrupted giant eagle. I was so distracted by her, I didn’t hear or see a thing until it was almost too late. Don’t make the same mistake is all I’m saying.”

Morghan had swallowed hard and nodded, “I’ll do my best.”

“That’s all I’m saying, just be aware of your own distraction. If you leave these walls, you can’t afford it.”

“I understand.”

With that, they’d shook hands and Kashmir had left to go be with his dainty Wood-Elf wife. He returned to Ferasyl to find her frowning. “He is your superior?” she asked.

“Yes, the man who taught me nearly everything I know of my profession. His name is Kashmir. You won’t find a finer man.”

“Does he need you in the aerie of stone?”

She had an odd way of phrasing things sometimes and he realized she meant the City. “No, in fact, he assigned me to be your body guard, to make sure you come to no harm, regardless of any Barbarian escort, should you need to leave here.”

She smiled. “That means you will stay?”

He nodded, smiling in return. “I’m not to leave your side, well, other than to sleep.”

“Maybe not even then,” she said slyly and glided away to go to Kethtia who had beckoned her over.

Morghan gasped and closed his eyes. “Oh Lyssa. Exquisite temptation indeed. Please keep me alert to any danger,” he muttered under his breath.

He could swear he heard words, “I am with you, child.”

He looked around frantically but there was no one near him. Unnerved, he stood still and opened his senses, but he felt nothing to alert his highly refined spider-sense, as he called it. Could it actually have been Lyssa that spoke to him? He might never know, but he sought out Ferasyl and kept a watch on all that drew near her for the rest of the afternoon.

Chapter 10
Xxxxxxxxxx
Morin
Redaxe Complex
Xxxxxxxxxx

Kendall and Mabel were dropped off at the Dwarven complex, and the others moved on to Elvin to inform the council at Elvin of what was transpiring. They were eager for news. No one was surprised to find Yvette Sanchez, Vincenza Ardul and their husbands, along with Nixie the Wood Elf along with Amelia and Antileon Fresco of the Amazons already at Elvin when they arrived. Sehanine, Gaia and Venus had all instructed their followers to make haste to Elvin to receive intelligence on the situation with the Avariel. They were all to play a part in protecting and preserving this race, once thought extinct.

xxxxxxxxxx

King Redaxe and his wife, Klempta were delighted to see Kendall again and welcomed Mabel with open arms. Though they had visited one other time since their initial visit and sent letters back and forth several times a year to keep updated with one another, it had been almost two years since they’d seen them.

Over an ale and venison feast they caught up on all the developments in Brevan and within the clan and then proceeded to hear the news of the Avariel and the request of the Barbarians that their best engineers travel to the Midnight Forest and determine a place for the Avariel. The King was keenly aware that the Dwarves were indebted to the races, despite having built the Pass.

The Barbarians had never requested anything for their participation in fending off the Dragons years ago, and they had taken in his first born son. Kilten was eager to repay that debt.

The King called a council and asked for volunteers. Some twenty dwarves volunteered to make the trip back with them and determine a suitable place to carve out aeries for the Avariel. They were excited to have a new project. Kilten, the king himself, said he would go. He wished to see where his son lived. In return, the Barbarians had offered to send rangers to hunt for the dwarves or send back a message as to what they would wish to trade for in exchange for their help. The dwarves now had extensive gardens and several rangers that kept the clan fed. They had no need of gold or gems, but were very interested in pottery. There was ample clay around the lakes and rivers of Morin. Kendall said he would speak to Brock when they returned home about providing pottery, or sending someone to teach them to do it themselves.

In the last year, monks from the abbey had descended on Brevan, helped them to build several large kilns and many pottery wheels and taught many Barbarians how to make and fashion pottery plates, platters, jugs, cups and the like. Now they traded clay for game as well as linen and bananas to stock up for the winter. It was looking like this would fast become a regular tradition to send out hunters for the abbey near the end of summer to stock them for the winter.

The rest of the evening was spent with Kendall telling him of the concept of family crests and the jewelry he now fashioned on a regular basis. Brock had sent him with a good supply of gold to purchase precious gems. Although they had no need of the gold, Kilten readily gave him a good price and he picked out some choice gems to bring back with him.

Xxxxxxxxxx
Morin
Dragon Clearing
Xxxxxxxxxx

Ellory and Duvan called the dragons. Zaheng and Olima were quick to answer their call. Once apprised of the situation they agreed to begin an immediate search of the remote areas of Morin for this elusive sorcerer who was most probably in hiding. The siblings agreed to wait in Elvin for word from the Dragons should the sorcerer be found.

They also asked to be alerted to any traveling Avariel and they would lend a hand in escorting them to the mountain. They asked that the Avariel be assured of their good will.

Xxxxxxxxxx
City of Shar
Vic Complex
Xxxxxxxxxx

They heard a commotion and shouting in the lobby of the great house. Jhultrin snatched up Kacey and followed Tartree down the great stairway. They stopped half-way on the wide landing. Two hunters were arguing with Belgar. They flanked another, a young woman.

Naricon strode into the foyer. “What is the meaning of this?” he thundered.

The woman said, “I must see Jhultrin.” Jhultrin slipped out from behind Tartree with Kacey on her hip. “I am here, Issua.”

“Ah, the prodigal returns.”

“You’ve no reason to fear it. I am of House Vic now.”

“Convenient,” she sneered.

“But not by design. Why have you come?”

“My hunters bring a message to Naricon.”

Naricon asked, “What message?”

“The avatar is waiting outside the east entrance tunnel. He demands to see Tartree and Jhultrin as fast as they can get there.

Naricon actually paled. “Belgar, assemble an escort, at least ten of your best men.”

Belgar ran out the door.

Issua continued, “The avatar was there when my hunting party exited the tunnel. They ran back here as fast as they could.

Naricon nodded. “I thank you for your haste. Can we offer refreshments?”

“No, I came merely to deliver the message and see with my own eyes that my sister had returned.”

Jhultrin smiled slyly. “You rule House Xun?” she asked.

“I do. And you would be ill-advised to try to usurp me. I’m not nearly as inattentive or careless as our mother.”

“Evidently,” Jhultrin said sadly. So her mother was gone. Most likely killed by Issua herself. She descended the staircase and stood before her younger sister. “Sister, be assured, I’ve no desire to rule. I never had such ambition.”

“Things change,” Issua hissed.

“Not this time. I wouldn’t have returned at all if not for Olima’s summons. I have my daughter and a good life. I am content. This is your niece, Kaesel; Kacey for short. Kacey, this is your Aunt Issua.”

The two stared at one another for a few seconds of silence and then Kacey held up her hand. Issua reached out tentatively. “I’ve children of my own, two daughters and a son.” Then she gasped as their hands touched, feeling a spark and tingle in her arm.

Kacey smiled. “I am no threat to you either Auntie. You should not waste time plotting against us. The danger to you is from within.”

“What do you speak of?” she asked, sounding alarmed.

Jhultrin smiled. “The child is a Seer and Truthsayer, Issua. I would heed her words.”

Issua swallowed. “Where is the danger child?”

“One named Ruatha. Look to your own house. There is no threat from without.”

Issua growled under her breath.

“Who is Ruatha?” Jhultrin asked.

“She is Peter’s bastard by his old mistress, Ruth. He was mother’s consort after you left. He abandoned Ruth for mother when she made him General. I took her in as an advisor after mother perished.

“I see,” Jhultrin said. “How old is she?”

“She was 15 when you left.”

“So she is 19 or 20 now?”

“Twenty – old enough to be ambitious,” she declared.

“And Peter?”

“He is still General. He got a brat on mother before she died. We have a little sister, Illia. She is almost five. Then I took him as consort when I took over. I’ll have his head for this!” she hissed.

Kacey shook her head. “He does not know her plans. She subverts and gathers information from those close to you about your routines, and sometimes from him, although he does not realize what he gives away.”

Issua peered at Kacey. “You mean Peter is not involved? Not complicit in this plot?”

“What’s complicit?” Kacey asked innocently.

Jhultrin explained, “Intimately involved, agreeable to the plan.”

Kacey shook her head again. “Oh no! He loves you, Issua.”

“Nonsense. He loved my mother, but he knows where his bread is buttered.”

Kacey said, “No, he respected her and feared her. He loves you.”

“He does not respect me?”

“Of course he does, but he loves you also.”

“What does love matter?” she spat. “That is weakness.”

Kacey looked sad. “It matters a great deal, and is the most powerful force in the universe. Do not underestimate his devotion to you.”

“What do you mean? Speak clearly!” she demanded.

“If you encourage his love, it could save you.”

“And if I don’t?”

“Ruth will prevail. Trust Peter, but you must give him something to make his love more than a burden he tries to hide from you.”

“What should I give him?”

“What he wants most of all,” she said plainly.

“What is that?”

“You don’t know?” Kacey asked, still sounding sad.

“No! Of course not!”

“That’s unfortunate,” she said, pursing her lips.

“Child, please! Explain!”

Kacey seemed to consider. Meanwhile, Belgar returned with nine warriors and said he would lead the escort himself.

Naricon nodded his consent and then motioned for silence. They all turned to watch the child. Kacey looked at Jhultrin. “She will not understand.”

Jhultrin said, “Tell her anyway. Perhaps she will in time.”

Issua glanced at Jhultrin, then back to Kacey.

Kacey heaved a world-weary sigh like an adult rather than the five-year old child she was. “Give him your heart and your commitment.”

“What? You mean marry him?”

“That’s the commitment part,” she said.

“But we never marry consorts. Everyone knows we arrange marriage to solidify power.”

“That should change,” Kacey said.

“Give him my heart – you mean tell him that I love him in return.”

“Only if you mean it,” she said pointedly.

A look of consternation crossed Issua’s face. “I cannot afford love, child. It makes you weak.”

Kacey said, “You’re wrong. It makes you strong. Did I not just say it was the most powerful force in the universe? Denying you love him doesn’t make it not so.”

“But we never marry consorts, it’s unheard of!” she protested.

Kacey grinned. “Be a trail blazer, you will survive the scandal and it will teach others.”

“How? I don’t understand.”

“I know,” Kacey said wearily.

Naricon cut in, “We have to go now.”

“Wait!” Issua hollered.

“You can visit the child later, Issua. I will allow this. I’m not going to keep the avatar waiting.”

Kacey grinned. “No, Zaheng can get cranky when he isn’t obeyed.”

They all gasped. “You call the avatar by name?” Naricon asked.

Kacey shrugged. “Why not? Why else would he have one?” she asked with indifference.

There was a small silence as they warriors gathered around the trio after Tartree descended to the foot of the staircase.

Jhultrin put a hand on Issua’s shoulder and leaned into her ear and whispered, “Sister, she has never been wrong. Things are changing. Ride the crest or you may drown in the ensuing waves.”

With that, they were hustled out the door and watched the warriors surround the trio and head for the tunnel.

Xxxxxxxxxx
Xun Complex
Xxxxxxxxxx

Issua ordered her hunter’s to go out again, but to use the south exit out of the city. She didn’t want them interfering with the avatar’s meeting, no matter how much she burned to know what was taking place. It was a puzzle. It seems her sister and Tartree had the blessing of the avatar. No matter how much she feared her sister’s return, she didn’t dare move against them. Everyone knew of Naricon’s pronouncement that the avatar had intervened to bring his son home. His bloodless coup had been a humiliation for her, but she was not rash like her mother. She’d known a House War would have diminished her army to a critical degree. They were finally at a point where they were replacing their losses. Many births had taken place in the last five years. It would be another ten or twelve years until those children were old enough to fight, but by sheer numbers they maintained their position as Second House. She couldn’t afford to lose that.

Her dreams of ruling the Drow had not come true, but she was the undisputed leader of her house and well-respected as a more cunning leader than her mother had ever been. She herself was only twenty-one, but she was a fierce fighter and master strategist. It had held her in good stead. Now this odd child of her sister’s was telling her to go against everything she believed in. In her heart of hearts, she admitted that she cared for Peter. But did she love him?

She’d been jealous when her mother boasted of her consort, raving on about his prowess in the bedchamber and how he was the only consort she hadn’t worn out. He had actually been able to keep up with her sexual appetite. She didn’t doubt that this prowess had saved him from her wrath more than once when he’d been unable to exact her plans to the letter.

She remembered the day the servants had found her mother’s body slumped over her dinner in her bed chamber. Issua had carefully poisoned only one half of the peach, a favorite fruit of her mother’s after having taken a couple bites out of it.

She’d strolled in and said, “I want meat. You want the rest of this?” She’d handed it to her mother, knowing the fact that she had taken a bite of it would prevent her mother from asking her tasters to sample it first.

Her mother had smiled and taken the peach. Fruit was rare and savored and never thrown away if it could be helped. Her mother had greedily devoured the peach in large bites. When the first wave of dizziness hit and her tongue began to burn she’d stared at Issua. “Betrayer!” she’d hissed.

Issua had merely smiled at her and said, “Good-bye, mother. You had a good run, but it’s over now.” Issua had been eighteen. She’d been declared successor by her own mother’s Will, and no one questioned her ascension in spite of her age. As she began issuing orders, planning strategy and rearranging guards, everyone quickly realized she was no addle-headed young woman like Jhultrin.

Peter had been afraid but he’d gallantly hidden it the best he could. He never questioned her right to the throne. Her stare had been all that was needed to ask if he would serve her now or if he needed to be replaced. He’d smiled at her as she sat on the throne in the meeting hall and bowed. “How may I serve, Mistress?”

Assured that he had no problem with the change in leadership, she’d had him begin training young warriors, younger than most. As a result, her army had built up again quickly, incorporating boys fourteen and fifteen years old if he felt they had the strength and stamina to begin training. If they didn’t he set others to build them up with exercise and high-protein diets, after clearing it with her first, of course. He’d done a fine job.

He doted on Illia and asked if she would assign a protector and nanny to her younger sister. She’d granted that request. After all, she would need a successor of her own. Then she began to think that it should be a child of her own loins. She had not chosen a consort, but had a periodic lover she would choose at random for a one-night stand. The beginning of her reign had been filled with numerous duties, large and small to effect the change in leadership and solidify her position as a respected leader. However, Issua had been sexually active since she was twelve and it was against her nature to go long without a lover. The defeat of House Cor under her mother’s guidance had released her from her conjugal duties with Umrae Cor, who was a total bore in the sack.

As things settled into routine, she began to remember her mother raving about Peter’s prowess. One night she’d asked him if he had a mistress. He frankly told her that he had a child, Ruatha by his former mistress, but he’d abandoned her for her mother some two years before, and had not chosen to return to her as she was a bitter and vindictive woman, although he remained in contact with his fifteen year old daughter. He’d said he would do almost anything to get Ruatha out of her mother’s clutches. She poisoned the girl’s mind against him and the throne, having been jealous of her mother.

He’d fallen on his knees and thanked her when she brought him to a private room the next day to find his daughter embedded as a protected member of the household. “How grateful are you, Peter?” she’d asked.

“Very grateful. I’m in your debt. Anything you ask of me is yours.”

“Is it enough for you to overcome your scruples?”

“Scruples?” he’d asked, confused.

“About bedding the daughter of your former lover and becoming my consort?”

His jaw had dropped. “I’d be honored. I’ve always found you beautiful and sexy, but wouldn’t presume to request such an honor.”

“Follow me,” she’d said. She’d led him straight to her bed chamber and he hadn’t needed to be told what to do. She’d been amazed at the heights he brought her too and thought at the time it was due to her recent abstinence, but she’d been pleased nonetheless. As time went on, she’d found out it wasn’t a fluke. The man was hung like a dragon, and he knew how to use his gifts.

She shuddered, remembering, feeling pulse with want. So the child, Kacey, had never been wrong. Did she dare trust her sister that this was not a plot to ultimately humiliate her and overthrow her. She had to admit their meeting had not been what she expected. Plus, she was here only because of the avatar and that couldn’t be ignored. Well, one step at a time, she thought.

Should she tell him about Ruatha? She decided perhaps she should move toward cementing their relationship first. Tie him to her a little tighter, and if the truth be told, the idea didn’t appall her the way she’d made out in front of Naricon. She merely hadn’t wanted to show weakness in front of him and figured admitting any tender care for Peter would be perceived that way. He was the Head Ruler of the Drow and that wasn’t going to change soon, but she couldn’t lose her position in the Second House. She’d worked too hard to get it.

She rang her tiny brass bell on her bedside table and a maid appeared. “Summon Peter for me,” she ordered. The maid darted out and she proceeded to strip off her clothes. By the time he knocked and entered, she was stark naked and laid out on the bed on her stomach, levered up on her elbows, her young, muscular bubble butt on full display. She realized it had been a couple weeks since she’d called for him. Peter was forty-five years old and truly old enough to be her father, but he was a fine specimen of a Drow. He turned and locked the door.

His face was long with a square chin. His cheekbones were high and his wide-set eyes were black and fringed with extra long eye lashes. He stood six feet, five inches tall and his shoulders were so wide they blocked out the light from the hall before he’d closed the door. She again admired his physique as he ripped his shirt off over his head and let it fall to the floor. Six solid chunks of muscle ran down his abdomen, his chest bulged with strength. His torso tapered into a lean but muscular waist. He sat on the bed without a word and took off his boots, ripping off his black leather pants and displaying the bulging thighs, each one almost wider than her dainty waist. Like her mother, she was five feet, six inches tall, but slim and willowy, with well toned muscles, strong arms, a flat stomach and an alluring muscular bubble butt that began high just below her waist.

She glanced down. Just the sight of her had made him ready. He was older, but not old and one of the most virile men she’d ever met. There had never been a time when he couldn’t perform. She’d always figured, like Umrae, the allure of a man his age possessing a young woman was the reason. Now, the child said he loved her and hid this from her, knowing she would think it a weakness.

As he gazed at her with adoration and eagerness, she made her decision on the spot. Why had she never noticed this look before for what it was. He loved her. A warm, melting sensation washed through her. He inhaled like he was smelled the most delicious food. Then he growled and descended on her. She groaned and let him do what he liked. She whispered, “I need you, Peter.”

“What do you wish, Mistress?”

“You take over, do what you want.”

“Mistress?”

“You heard me, take me however you want, and call me Issua.”

His eyes grew huge and he licked his lips. “Are you sure?”

“No trick, do it. Oh for the love of Kalai, I need you now.”

“Yes, Mis … Issua. Goddess, yes!” he hissed.

She clung to his gigantic shoulders, scratching and hollering. He was a machine, building her up over and over again. He finally sped up again and released. He kissed her eyes, her cheeks, and her neck as they relaxed in post-coital lassitude. With a start, she realized she hadn’t taken her contraceptive since the last time they were together; at least two weeks. She wondered how she could have forgotten. It was too late to worry about it now.

He took her twice more before he was satisfied. He’d always had a high sex drive, could perform every day without a problem. But when he’d been the consort of Issua’s mother, he’d worried about her ravenous appetite, which had been legend. During that time, he’d gone to a trusted friend of his sister, who given him a powder he mixed with his ale that gave him added strength and sexual drive. It had served him well. He still used it without anyone’s knowledge. It was delivered secretly to him every week. He peppered his food with it, put it in his beverages. The only down side was a stiff breeze would make him ready. But he was always ready for Issua as he had been for her mother. She had inherited her mother’s proclivities. But the powder made him insatiable as well.

He couldn’t believe his luck that she had given him permission to take her as he wished. He’d love to knock her up but knew she took the contraceptive weed.

She’d had a daughter by Umrae, and then a son and a daughter by an interim lover in the two years before she became Ruler.

She rolled over, and stared up at him. “Stay with me, sleep with me tonight,” she whispered, her voice hoarse from shouting. He curled his big body around her and spooned her into the cradle of his chest. “That was the best, Peter. It’s never been so good. I should give you free reign more often.”

He smiled and huffed. “Anytime you wish, Mis … Issua. Your wish is my command.”

“I’ll hold you to that.”

“No worries. I only want to make you happy.”

“Keep servicing me like that and I’ll very happy.”

“As you wish.”

Very nice! I like it a lot. Good build up. Looking forward to more.

Chapter 11
Amazon Rainforest
East Exit from City of Shar
Xxxsxxxxxxx

Naricon wanted to accompany Tartree to see the avatar, but Belgar argued that should something awful happen, both he and his son shouldn’t be there. Naricon was their leader and they couldn’t afford to lose him. He finally bowed to that wisdom.

The escort marched Jhultrin and Tartree to the exit. They exited the tunnel and looked around. The dragon was nowhere in sight, but then a snort of flame appeared in the sky and Zaheng came in for a landing some twenty feet away. Gasps were heard from all the guards and they all fell to their knees.

Jhultrin and Tartree stepped forward. “Revered one, we understand you wished to see us,” Tartree addressed him. Although he knew the dragons were not avatars, he still addressed him respectfully, plus, he didn’t want to start a riot among the guards.

“Greetings, Tartree. My purpose is two-fold. My beloved asked that I make sure you arrived safely and were unharmed.”

“We did, thank you,” he replied. “There was a second purpose?”

“Yes, this one is for me. I wish you to relay a message to your father and all the Drow.”

“What would you have me tell him?”

“There is an evil sorcerer in Morin. He has opened a breach and allowed the Dragonari to surface and hunt. Although responsible for their creation millennia ago, we detest them now. They were banished to the underworld and that is where they should stay. Trouble is, this sorcerer is using all his wits to hide from us.”

“Why were they brought top-side? Do you know?”

“Yes, to hunt creatures thought extinct. I don’t wish to reveal them at this time. Suffice it to say that if the Drow were to locate and eliminate this sorcerer, I would be pleased and inclined to look upon the Drow with favor. Olima and I are busy protecting the skies over Morin. I can only dedicate limited time to searching for this miscreant.”

“I understand. You feel sure he is in Morin?”

“I believe so. The Dragonari surfaced here, therefore, I assume the one that summoned them is here as well. I wish the Drow to make an honest search. There is no penalty for failure. There is great reward for success.”

“I will convey your message, Zaheng, with all haste.”

“I appreciate it. He ripped two scales off his side and tossed them to the ground in front of Tartree. More gasps were heard. “One is for you and one is for Jhultrin, to show you are under my protection.”

“Thank you, Revered One. We will treasure them,” Jhultrin replied. Just then Olima let out a squawk to let them know of her approach and she flew in and landed next to Zaheng, ripping a blue scale off her side and tossing it. “That one is for your child, Jhultrin. I’m glad you are safe.”

“Thank you, Olima.” Kacey slid off her hip and tripped to the scale. She picked it up and gasped. “Oh my,” she said softly, as a vision of an Avariel chased by Draganari flitted behind her mind’s eye.

Jhultrin laid a hand on Kacey’s shoulder and squeezed her, advising caution.

Olima snorted fire above their heads. The guards were shuffling nervously. “Keep that vision to yourself for now, child, if you please,” Olima requested.

Kacey nodded. The guards took this as confirmation that the child was a true seer. Some hadn’t been sure until that moment, but if the avatar was acknowledging her visions, then it must be so. “I trust I don’t have to remind Naricon of our agreement?” she asked Tartree.

“I believe he is true to his word. He has promised no harm will come to us. That is why he sent all these guards,” Tartree responded.

“Very good. Tell him to begin his search in the north. I will inform the people that you will be searching. If surface dwellers come upon you, tell them you are searchers for the evil one. They will know you search on our behalf and will not attack, unless of course you harm them first.” She looked at Belgar. “Is that understood?”

“Yes, Revered One. We will do our best.”

“Very well. Tell Naricon Vic that we are pleased.”

“I will,” Belgar said, nodding his head respectfully.

“We will check with you in a couple of weeks if you have not found the evil one by then,” Zaheng said.

Olima whipped her head up and looked over her shoulder. “Mother calls.” She looked at Zaheng. “Stay here, I’ll be back.” She turned and took a running step and launched herself into the air.

Belgar asked under his breath, “Mother?”

Tartree smiled. “A Beast Master of great skill by the name of Ellory Greenleaf Starborne.”

“I don’t understand.”

Zaheng chuckled, a choking, grinding sound and fire shot out of his nostrils. “She is my beloved’s mother. She raised her and cared for her when she was a hatchling. The one that bore her egg was long dead.”

Tartree said, “They call her and her brother, Dragon Masters.”

Belgar swallowed, “What is a Dragon Master?”

“They can call the dragons. As you just saw, Olima heard her call and took off.”

“You’re not lying,” Beglar stated, his skepticism obvious.

“No, but you rather have to see it to believe it. The Drow have much to learn. It is part of the reason we have returned – to teach you what we have learned.”

Xxxxxxxxxx

Ellory swallowed her apprehension and climbed up on Olima’s back as she was asked to do, seating herself firmly in front of her wings at the back of her neck. She slipped her legs under the big scales on either side and they closed, holding her in place. She felt a little better after that. “I will fly low. I will not let you fall. Hold the edge of my scale in front of you,” Olima instructed.

Ellory did what she was told, leaving Flynx Bruno and Osal looking worried on the ground. “It’s only a mile away. I’ll be back soon,” she said.

“Show time,” Olima said. “Hold on.”

She took a running step and launched. Ellory whooped in surprise and felt her stomach come up in her throat. She swallowed hard and carefully opened her eyes. It was amazing, soaring over the tree tops. She was scared and exhilarated at the same time. She knew she could show no fear to those they were about to meet. Olima let out of bleat of warning on her approach, fire shooting out of her nostrils. She circled the group once, listening to the gasps and cries of surprise when the Drow realized Mother was on her back. She slowed and glided in for a perfectly smooth landing and crouched down, with her wings folded to her sides.

Ellory dismounted, and slid down to the edge of her wing and then hopped to the ground. “Hail Tartree, Jhultrin.”

“Hail and welcome,” they greeted her together.

“Ah, Kaesel. I haven’t seen you since you were a baby. I’m Ellory.”

“Pleased to meet you,” the little girl chirped and shook her hand, showing no fear or surprise.

“Mother has intelligence on our evil one,” Olima announced. She ignored the gob smacked looks on the Drow faces before her.

Ellory said, “The Wood Elves have been divining. The Diad has located an area northwest of the Sacred Forest. They say it reeks of foul magic. They have set up guards and watchers on the perimeter but won’t enter the area.”

Zaheng peered at her. “Hmmm, so they think this is the where the evil one is residing?”

“They don’t know, but they think it may be the location of the underworld breech. The hell spawn were first seen near their forest as you know. They gave sanctuary to their quarry. The Dragonari don’t seem to want to enter the Sacred Forest.”

“No, they wouldn’t,” Olima said. “Nature magic hurts them and the Sacred Forest is full of it.”

“Which is also probably why that location was chosen. It would be the last place we would look. But as you know, it’s also on the route, or near the route from Marshville.”

Zaheng turned to the Drow. “Have your people search this area first. I will speak with the Wood Elves and ask them to grant you passage. Do NOT harm them. If you’ve mages among you that can seal the breach, all the better. If the perpetrator is not there, your search can continue, but let’s start there and see if we can at least foil any plans for more hell spawn breaching the surface.”

Tartree nodded. “I’ll relay all this as soon as I return. Thank you, Ellory.”

“You’re welcome.”

Olima said, “I must return Mother to her familiar. He is upset at your absence.”

Ellory chuckled. “He’ll get over it.”

Olima snickered, fire blasting out of her nose. She crouched down again and Ellory climbed onto her wing and then threw her leg over her neck and Olima secured her under her scales again. “Fare well,” she said. Then she turned and took off.

Ellory swallowed her fear and didn’t make a sound this time. They were gone in seconds.

Zaheng turned to Tartree. “Any questions?”

“No, you were quite clear.”

“If you find the miscreant, leave your scale on the boulder in the clearing on the south side of the rain forest. I will come to you.”

“As you wish.”

“Till we meet again Tartree Vic.”

Zaheng turned and launched himself into the air and flew away. The Drow rattled and clumsily climbed to their feet. They had been on their knees the whole time, except for Tartree and Jhultrin. “Why didn’t you kneel?” Belgar asked.

“Not necessary. as long as you are respectful. They like to see your face when they talk to you. I’ll explain everything later. Let’s head back.”

“What’s this familiar she spoke of?” Belgar asked.

Kacey said, “ A polar bear named Osal. I saw him when I shook her hand.”

Tartree said, “I’ll explain familiars later.”

Jhultrin picked up Kacey and they began their march back into the City. Jhultrin looked at her scale and said, “Should we make belt buckles out of them like Vincenza did?”

The guards were eavesdropping shamelessly.

Tartree chuckled. “I guess we could. Best way not to lose it.”

“Or have anyone try to take it,” Kacey said. “That would be a grave mistake,” she said pointedly, as if she had sensed some intent in one or more of the guards.

“I imagine it would be,” Jhultrin said casually. “I’m sure they know everyone to whom they’ve given their scales.”

“I’m sure they do,” Tartree replied.

Chapter 12
Morin
xxxxxxxxxx

Francel White was exhausted but he could see the Sacred Forest in the distance, shrouded in Mist. He couldn’t afford to rest. He swung west toward the sanctuary of the Wood Elves. He flew high, catching and gliding on currents when he could to preserve his strength. Even so, his wing and back muscles ached. He hadn’t dared to land since he left the edge of the marsh. “Chareth, give me strength,” he whispered. He caught an updraft and rode it, resting his wings. He was losing altitude again, but he let it happen to rest a bit more on this current.

Something caught his eye and he left himself drift lower. Two humans, three Elves, and a Half-Elf were in a clearing with a dragon. They were grouped together near the edge near two huge boulders. Two bears and wolf were nearby, seemingly undisturbed by the presence of each other. That was a strange sight. He’d been told to trust the dragons but he still feared them instinctively. No one forgot their history. He veered away but then heard the cackle of the Dragonari. Damn, those things were fast. He spotted them emerging into the clearing.

“Head’s up!” he heard the man shout.

He pumped his wings but couldn’t rise again out of range. He dodged a throwing star and shouted, feeling his strength betray him.

He descended and landed on a sturdy branch of a tree at the edge of the clearing. He watched as the woman gave a hand signal to a huge polar bear. It shot after the Dragonari, stood up on it’s hind legs, nearly ten feet tall and swiped at the Dragonari’s head, nearly decapitating it.

He drew his bow and waited. Five more were headed to the base of his tree, and there were at least several others in the clearing. Fortunately, they were abysmal climbers.

The man and woman released arrows. The man caught one in the eye and he dropped. The woman’s arrow pierced the neck of another. The Dragon fried another with a blast of fire. Clearly they knew not to aim at their bodies. The lithe Elves raised staffs and began speaking in a language he couldn’t understand.

To his amazement, the dead ones rose up and began to attack the rest. The black bear killed another. In minutes, the rest were dead. The dragon piled them quickly away from the trees and incinerated them to ash.

He sat down wearily on the branch and folded his wings around his shoulders. The small woman approached the tree alone. She looked up at him. “Hail Avariel, are you unharmed?”

“Yes, my thanks. You know what I am?”

“Yes.”

“I couldn’t make it Aelfdene.”

“The Dragonari are dead. You can come down and rest. We will guard you and escort you to the Sacred Forest if you wish.”

He eyed the dragon warily even though it hadn’t moved. The woman followed his line of sight. “That’s Olima. She won’t harm you. My name is Ellory Starborne. That’s my husband, Flynx, and my brother Duvan. We are all Beast Masters. Our familiars won’t harm you either. The she-Elf is Cyrida, my brother’s wife. The others are Witfar and Casdon. They are necromancers that can control the dead.”

He decided to take a chance. He groaned as he flapped his wings once and dropped to the ground. “Many thanks to you all. My name is Francel White.”

“Kin to Ferasyl?” Duvan asked.

He smiled. He had lucked out. “You know my sister. She lives?”

Ellory smiled. “Oh yes. She is safe on the other side of the mountain, staying with the Barbarians and fairies.”

He sagged with relief and let his eyes tear up. “Thanks be to Chareth.”

“You speak common,” Cyrida stated.

“Yes, poorly, but I studied it when I was young. I argued that I should go for help, but Chareth chose Ferasyl.”

Olima finally spoke up. “Be assured of my good will, Avariel. I despise what our ancestor’s did to your kind. We too are a dying race. I can only hope to make up for it in some way now. If you wish, I can take you to the edge of the Sacred Forest.”

“You would carry me?” he asked confused.

“You can ride on my back,” she said plainly.

“I don’t know,” he said apprehensively.

Zaheng squawked and landed. Francel stumbled back and Duvan took his arm to steady him. Zaheng said, “Mother, you need aide?”

“We do. We must get Francel here to the Sacred Forest.”

Zaheng turned to him. “I am Zaheng, Olima’s mate. Mother called. I see you dispatched the Dragonari.”

“Yes, we did.”

Ellory suggested that Duvan ride with him to alleviate his uncertainty. Finally, Duvan mounted Zaheng and Francel sat in front of him. Ellory mounted Olima. Cyrida and Flynx said they’d meet them at the edge of the forest. With that, they took off.

Duvan could feel Francel shaking. Obviously, he wasn’t afraid of heights. It was the dragon that was making him nervous. He wrapped his arms around the man and grasped the scale in front of him. Duvan whispered, “You’re safe. He won’t harm you. More importantly, he won’t risk harming me.”

Francel huffed. “This story I have to hear. He calls you Mother.”

“Yes, because I hatched him. It’s a long story for another day.”

They reached the edge of the forest in about twenty minutes and touched down lightly. They all dismounted. Ellory put her fingers to her lips and whistled shrilly. Nixie and Carling appeared out of the foliage at the edge of the trees. “Hail Dragon Masters. Zaheng, Olima, good to see you again,” Nixie greeted them.

Ellory nodded. “Hail. We are delivering Ferasyl’s brother into your care. He is tired and needs rest. Call us when he is ready to leave. We will escort him to Brevan or gather those that can if we cannot leave yet.”

“Of course, glad to have you brother. I’m Carling. And this is Nixie.”

“I am Francel. I beg sanctuary.”

“And you shall have it. Come and rest,” Nixie said.

He turned. “I owe you a debt. Thank you.”

Duvan nodded. “No problem. Be well. From here on, you need not travel alone. You are among friends.”

“I am grateful.”

“Till we meet again.”

They shook hands and then watched as they melted into the forest. Duvan sighed. “He came to see if Ferasyl lived.”

“Yes. They must all be worried. Perhaps we can get word to them through Zoggar,” Ellory said.

Zaheng said, “I hesitate to go there with so much going on here, but perhaps it would be good to let them know. They keep sending one at a time and there’s bound to be an end to their luck. We could tell them to await word and that the siblings are well.”

Olima said, “I think we should. I’ll keep an eye on the Drow and things here. You can go and be back in one day.”

“All right. I’ll go now and be back as soon as I can.” He nuzzled Olima and then turned and took off.

Olima sighed, blowing little darts of flame from her nostrils.

“Is something wrong?” Ellory asked. “Besides the obvious,” she added.

“No, but I do have something to tell you.”

“What’s up?”

“I laid an egg a couple weeks ago. Your about to be a grandma.”

Ellory grinned. “Ha! That’s wonderful, Olima!”

“You are pleased?”

“Of course. Congratulations. When can we expect the little hatchling?”

“In another week or so. I waited a week before I began incubating. But I didn’t want my egg to become a tool like the others, so I didn’t want to delay too long. I’m just wondering if I should have waited. There’s so much going on now.”

“There will always be things going on. If you need help, you know, in an emergency and didn’t want to leave it alone, I can always help. I know where you lair is.”

“I will if it comes to that. It seemed like a good idea at the time.”

Ellory chuckled. “Will it be a boy or girl?”

“A girl. Orion and Zaganna are hatching a mate for her.”

“That’s wonderful.”

“We will split our territory with them when they are old enough. But fear not. I will pass on all you taught me. They will never harm the people of Morin.”

“I wasn’t worried.”

“I’m glad you are pleased. I didn’t know if you would be happy about more dragons in the world.”

“I’m fine with it as long as they are educated and not a threat, and I know they won’t be, any more than you are.”

“Ah good. Shall I wait with you until your mates arrive?”

“No, unless you want to. We’ll be fine. I’ll call you if there’s trouble. They should be here in a half hour or so.”

“Oh, one last thing. If you are outnumbered by Draganari, climb a tree. They cannot climb very well. They might try, but they simply can’t do it.”

“Good to know,” Duvan stated.

“Call me if you need me.” With that, she took off.

Chapter 13
Aelfdene
Sacred Forest
Xxxxxxxxxx

Francel spent two days in Aelfdene. He slept for most of the first one. Nixie showed him around when he finally got up. She introduced him to the council and to the Diad. He’d heard of the Wood Elves all his life but he found his little cousins quite fascinating, not to mention beautiful. Nixie enchanted him completely. She regaled him with stories of the Dragon Masters, explaining how the humans had raised them and why. He gained a new respect for the talented siblings that had saved his life. Riding a dragon would be tale he would hopefully tell his grandchildren.

He had gone weak with relief upon finding out Ferasyl was alive and well. He was later horrified upon hearing how badly she’d been injured. Duvan and Ellory had returned with the tale of the extraordinary rescue by a rogue named Morghan and later of the monk healing her mortal wounds. He only hoped he would get a chance to meet both of them.

He was thrilled to hear of all the plans that were already underway to help his people and humbled that all these strangers of different races were pitching in. When no word came, they all feared Ferasyl was lost. The priestesses had received no word or vision from Chareth, and so he’d been sent to find out what he could. He was debating whether to find her or return with this news. On this second day, some elves returned with word that Zaheng had gone to send word to his people. It was hard to think of the dragons as friends, but so far they’d been true to their word.

He decided that he wanted to travel to Brevan. The Wood elves advised him to travel with an escort by ground rather than fly. It would take longer but would be safer. He agreed. He didn’t relish another exhausted flight from the Dragonari and he was sure there were more out there. They explained that plans were in motion, but they had to find this sorcerer and seal up the breach that was allowing the Dragonari out first, otherwise his people would always be in danger. He was even more pleased when Nixie announced that she would join the escort, along with her friends from Dawnrest; Yvette and Edward, Vincenza and Falcon, Duvan, Ellory and their spouses. As well, two Amazons would join them, Amelia and Antileon Fresco.

When Nixie explained riding horses, he laughed. “I rode a dragon, how hard can it be?” She’d giggled and told him the High Elves would find a gentle one for him. He resigned himself to absorb shocks at every turn. The City of Elvin was foreign but lovely. He couldn’t wait to see Ferasyl and discuss it all with her.

Xxxxxxxxxx
City of Shar
Xxxxxxxxxx

With Naricon’s permission, Issua and Peter were invited to dinner. Naricon had told of the avatar’s request and asked that she put together a team of warriors with a mage or two and have them search for the sorcerer. He did the same, and sent them off the next night to begin their search.

They decided to walk, dismissing their guards. Peter assured them he could protect Issua. His sword was strapped to his waist. As they walked, Peter asked, “Not that I’m not honored, Mistress, but why was I invited?”

“I’m unsure, and call me Issua when we are alone.”

He smiled. “Very well.”

“The child is a Seer, Peter. Perhaps you are involved in one of her visions, in fact, I’m almost sure of it. She was vague when she spoke to me, saying only that there was a threat within our house.”

Peter scowled. “I will kill anyone that tires to harm you.”

She stopped walking and pulled him into a shadowed doorway. “Peter, this may involve kin of yours.”

“What?”

She swallowed. “I haven’t told you everything.”

“Will you tell me now? I don’t wish to be caught off guard in the lion’s den.”

She sighed. “I don’t think Naricon is a threat. I don’t know what she’s up to but the child did mention a name.”

“Who?” he growled.

She palmed his face. “I want to tell you something first.”

His jaw pulsed as he ground his teeth. “Very well.”

“I … care for you, Peter, more than I should.”

He inhaled deeply but quietly, his eyes drilling into hers. “I’m glad to hear it. You know I’m devoted to you.”

She lowered her eyes, gathering her courage. “You mean a great deal to me and I’m afraid of losing you.”

“You won’t lose me,” he replied automatically.

“Don’t be so sure. If this involves your kin,” she said, trailing off.

“You’re scaring me,” he said softly.

She finally looked him in the eye again. “This isn’t the time to tell you, but … I need you to know – even if you think it makes me weak.”

“Know what? You’re the strongest woman I know.”

“I’m in love with you, Peter, and it would destroy me to lose you,” she blurted out.

He gasped, caught her up and crushed her mouth under his. She choked on a sob, but returned his ardor. He finally lifted his head. “If I keep this up, I’ll have to take you right in this doorway.”

She laughed and swallowed another sob. “You don’t think less of me?” she asked softly.

“Hell, no. I’m thrilled. I’ve loved you since the first time I touched you. God, woman, I know I’m just a consort, but there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for you.”

She brushed her eyes with her fingers to prevent the tears from falling. “You realize if you tell anyone, I’ll have to kill you,” she joked.

He threw his head back and laughed. “Your secret is safe with me, as long as you keep mine.”

“Deal, and your not just a consort, you’re also a trusted General.”

He leaned down and hugged her, whispering in her ear. “And I always will be, my love, my Issua.”

She sniffed. “We better get going. We’re going to be late.” He’d forgotten she hadn’t disclosed the name. She just hoped her preemptive declaration would soften the blow and not ruin everything.

Xxxxxxxxxx

They were geeted and escorted to the upstairs suite of rooms where her sister was staying. It was like an apartment in the main house. This was so they could meet privately. Dishes were laid out on a dining table with four chairs and a booster seat for Kacey.

Peter remembered Jhultrin and was introduced to Tartree and Kacey. They feasted on trout, bread and mushroom soup. Once the dishes were cleared away, they retired to couches in the living room with coffee. Issua was nervous, but Peter seemed perfectly at ease. She was astonished at the change in him. His whole demeanor was less tense. Shedding his secret seemed to have worked an instant change in him.

Issua said, “I assume this wasn’t just a social invitation.”

Jhultrin replied, “No, we have quite a few things to discuss. We returned at Olima’s request to teach the Drow of things we’ve learned about the surface. Things are changing. Many of the old ways must be cast aside if we are to survive as a race. We have already begun educating Naricon. We would like to impart knowledge to you also. If both the first and seconds houses can agree to implement changes, the rest will fall in line much easier.”

“Puta are going to teach us to survive?” Issua sneered. “We’ve already begun replacing our numbers.”

Peter put a hand on her forearm – a warning to be cautious. She glanced at him but then turned back to her sister.

Tartree said, “First, they are not puta. This is one of the things we have learned. Despite the births, population is dropping due to in-fighting. Father showed me figures. He keeps a close eye on these things.”

Peter said, “You don’t say this merely because they took you in?”

“No, they are very different, I’ll grant you that, but we have lived under many misconceptions about them. They have many abilities at their disposal of which we knew nothing. We intend to tell you about them.”

Jhultrin said, “We don’t expect to convince you overnight, but listen to what we have to say first before you discount it. We will tell you of the dragons, what we know of each race, and what we know of Ritualists and Beast Masters, two professions we thought were myths.”

“Okay,” Issua said slowly.

“First, though, your own house must be put in order so you can work without fear of opposition and subversion.”

Issua hid her fear. “I am the undisputed ruler of House Xun,” she declared.

Jhultrin said, “Yes, and if you want to stay undisputed ruler, you will listen to Kacey. She has some things to say to both of you.”

The child had been quiet until now. They all turned to her. “What I’m going to say will be a shock to you, Peter Xunson.” Her voice was girlish but had an odd timber of maturity.

He swallowed hard. “I’m ready.”

“Your daughter, Ruatha, has never forsaken her loyalty to her mother. She has hidden this from you and everyone.”

His lower lip quivered but otherwise he didn’t react. Then, “Can you explain further?”

“Yes. I don’t know all, but I will tell you what I know. Her mother sowed in her a deep hatred for the rulers of House Xun. When Issua took her in, it was with Ruth’s permission as she charged her to spy on the house and inner workings of the court. She has periodically reported back to Ruth and her cohorts since she’s been there.”

“Do you know her ultimate goal?” he asked quietly. The menace in his voice was all the more potent because he wasn’t yelling.

Kacey hesitated. “To find a way to kill Issua and claim the throne for herself, taking over House Xun and establishing House Ru.”

“I’ll kill that bitch!” he growled. Issua laced her fingers with his.

“Your own daughter?” Kacey asked, clearly upset.

“No, Ruth, that traitorous nag! She poisoned that child’s mind from the time she was a little.”

“Understand that although Ruatha feels loyalty to Ruth, she has never been able to hate you as her mother does. She has delayed many actions because of this. She realized as time went by that you were not the cavalier monster Ruth made you out to be. Time has brought her love for you and respect for Issua, and realization that her mother is mad and bitter with jealousy.”

“And yet she persists?” Issua asked.

“I think she is not sure how to change her circumstance without revealing her own duplicity. The punishment for treason here is death. She does not wish to perish, so delay and excuses have been her only friend.”

“She does not want to rule?” Peter asked.

Kacey replied, “I don’t know, but I don’t think so, now that she knows what’s involved, but she is in too deep now.”

“What should I do?” Issua asked. She realized she was taking advice from a five year old and almost laughed but she had no doubt the child was genuine. This was the first time she’d ever set foot in Shar, and there was no way she could know these things, or even names of those she spoke of unless she’d had true visions and sight.

Finally, she replied, “I would find and expose Ruth. She will blame her daughter without remorse and it will infuriate Ruatha. I have seen it. But I caution you.”

“Caution?” Issua asked.

“Show mercy to Ruatha and she will become your greatest ally. Kill her and another will rise to take her place.”

“And Ruth?” Peter asked through clenched teeth.

Kacey smiled. “Ruth will be taken care of by a hand other than yours, Peter Xunson. Your part is to find her and drag her before your Mistress for judgment with Ruatha in attendance. She does not need to know where you got your information.”

Peter nodded. “My daughter loves me?”

Kacey nodded. “Yes, more than one woman loves you. Even Ruth, in her own twisted way. You have the ability to bring out high emotion from the women in your life,” she said slyly.

He barked out a laugh and coughed into the back of his hand.

Issua chortled. “He does, indeed. And you speak true. More than one woman loves Peter.”

They gazed at each other for several moments and then both cleared their throats. Jhultrin was astonished to see her sister all but admit she was in love with Peter. Maybe there was hope for her yet.

Kacey grinned. “I see a Priestess in your future.”

Peter snorted. “You’re a romantic child. However, royalty do not bind themselves to consorts or Generals in that fashion.”

“I wouldn’t be too sure. Many things are about to change in Drow society. Those who change will thrive. Those who don’t, will perish,” she recited dreamily. “Love is powerful. What do you think gave Vincenza Ardul the power and resolve to defect? Love. Why do you think my mother and father left? Love. It can make miracles happen. Trust in love.”

No one had a response to that.

Jhultrin finally said, “Let me tell you about the Beast Masters and Ritualists. We’ll save the information on the Amazons, Barbarians and Humans for another time. First you need to understand that their goals are different from ours, and happiness is not measured the same way. They do not seek power and riches in the way we do. They have rulers, but they are benevolent and rule by committee in many cases. They do not rule by fear.”

And so the lessons began. They stayed another two hours, astonished at many of the things they heard, unsure whether to believe. They left with many plans to make; the first of which was locating Ruth, who was in hiding and exposing her treacherous plot to put her daughter on a throne.

Chapter 14
Brevan Stronghold
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The Dwarves arrived at Brevan and were housed in the bunkhouse. They joined the public for dinner in the square and ate heartily, delighted to find out that the Barbarians did brew ale and had a good supply of kegs.

After dinner they met in the pavilion and explained what they needed them to do. The idea was to find an area where they could carve out aeries with no danger of collapsing part of the mountain, but also an area that could be made accessible to those that could not fly. The engineers took their assignment seriously and set out the next day to begin testing areas of the mountain with their sounding tools and making notes on the sediment and rock layers along the mountain.

Kilten asked to speak with Brock after the meeting. They retreated to Brock and Kethtia’s home. “What can I do for you, King Redaxe?” Brock asked politely.

“Call me Kilten, Sir. I be wantin’ to just say that we ‘preciated the help your people gave with that dragon mess.”

Brock waved his hand airily. “No problem. Past history.”

“Maybe so, but we hav’ na forgotten. And I know ya never asked for anythin’ in return, and I’m glad ta be able to help out now, even if it in’t for ya directly.”

Brock smiled. “We appreciate the help.”

“Uh, I also wanna thank ya for takin’ in my son and Mabel. I made an awful mistake years ago, in my ignorance.”

“It takes a big man to admit it, Kilten. I admire you for that, and they are happy now. I’m just glad you had a change of heart.”

“Ya be sayin’ a mouthful, Sir.”

“Call me Brock.”

“Aye, Brock. Well, I jus’ be wantin’ ya ta know, ya can call on us any time.”

Brock smiled again. “I’ll keep that in mind and I thank you for the offer. Kendall mentioned pottery. We have six men here who could show you how to do it, and help you build a kiln if you wanted, or we could make it for you in payment.”

“No payment be required. We want ta help.”

“Nevertheless, let me know if you wish to purchase it or be shown. We can arrange it easily enough when this is over.”

“I’ll be lettin’ ya know what I decide.”

“Fair enough. Let me know if your men need anything.”

“We brought our ‘quipment. We should be fine.”

“All right then. We’ll speak later.”

“Aye, thank ya again.”

“Good night, Kilten.”

“Good night, Brock.” He left and headed for the bunkhouse.

“Odd man,” Kethtia said from the kitchen doorway.

“I think he still feels guilty about Kendall and Mabel. Now he’s gotten to see how well loved Mabel is here.”

“Even the old can learn new tricks.”

He stood and scooped her up in a baby carry. “I’d like to show you some new tricks.”

“Is that so?” she said, raising an eyebrow.

He smiled and carried her into the bedroom.

Chapter 15
Brevan Stronghold
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The boy bandits Carl Ranall, John Brody, Fisher banks, Tyler Ferris, Randy Banks and Harris Laggo had all been trained as potters, since they didn’t have enough training to be warriors or hunters, and other jobs were already filled. They all threw themselves into the art of making platters, plates, cups, bowls and pitchers to supply the large population of Brevan. A couple Barbarians had been trained as well, and anyone who wanted to learn was eagerly taken in as a pupil.

Rangers who weren’t busy during the summer ventured into the Fongel Forest and hunted for the Meadow Abbey. Serious stock up for the winter wouldn’t begin until near fall, but they would bring in several deer or small game animals and return to Brevan with hunks of clay weighed on scales at the Abbey. Soon they had a great supply of clay to work with.

Garmen Quigley had since studied masonry and become quite adept. He’d begun his own projects, first creating a flag stone courtyard over the village square that prevented it from becoming muddy in winter or dusty in the summer. The people were delighted and he soon had orders to prepare stone steps and flagstone walkways in front of many houses and courtyards in the rear of many. He had studied the kilns and worked with the monks when they were built and was confident he could construct them on his own.

He was recruited along with the boys to travel to Morin and visit the Dwarves. Garmen would build a kiln in each of the four Dwarven complexes and the boys would proceed to teach them how to construct the clay pottery and fire it in the kilns. The few Barbarians that had learned the trade would hold down the fort while they were gone. At this time, they had built up quite a store house anyway and the Pottery Barn, as it was called, had shelves bulging with platters, bowls, dinner plates, goblets and pitchers. Anyone could literally walk in and take what they wanted or needed.

Ferasyl had gone out in the meadow and the nearby woods, with Morghan as her shadow and no less than four guards at all times, gathering plants, weeds and tree saps. She returned to make egg tempura paints in many colors and began decorating the pitchers and bowls with beautiful pictures of flowers, trees and wildlife. People exclaimed over her creative talent.

She was content but missing her family. Meanwhile, the Dwarves were scouring the mountain and determined that the area the east of the village, which was largely undeveloped and undisturbed was the best spot to begin carving out the aeries. In this area, the mountain range dipped south and the usual barren scrub brush and sink areas were not present at the base. The forest began within a few hundred yards of the base of the mountain.

Although they’d brought some with them, Rachelle and Mackenzie immediately set about examining their picks, awls and rock carving tools and began creating them as fast as they could. The Dwarves brought Barbarians with them and showed them how to sound the rock and begin digging, suggesting distance between caves to maintain structural integrity. Many of the young teens turned out to help with the project, often being bored and glad to have something new and exciting to do. It was hard work, but it honed their physical bodies and they felt a great sense of accomplishment. Rope ladders were constructed to bring them up the mountain face to begin the work. In the meantime, warriors, under the supervision of Correl Winger turned out in droves to haul and shape rocks and create a large base of stone steps at the base of the mountain and construct a large, high wall in front of it to block easy access by outsiders.

They worked in shifts and the work proceeded quickly.

Xxxxxxxxxx

“Aiee! Aiee!” The call came from the gate and Brock and Kethtia strode to the gates as they cranked open. They opened to reveal a small party crossing the meadow. Brock broke into a smile seeing Nixie in the lead, the Amazons Amelia and Antileon towering behind her and followed by Duvan, Cyrida, Witfar and Casdon, Ellory and Flyx with their various familiars trailing after them bringing up the rear.

They were all mounted and wearing bulging back packs. In the center of this party between the Amazons and the rest was a man, maybe five feet, eight inches high, wiry but showing firm muscles in his legs and arms. He flexed his shoulders and great white wings spread out behind him and then folded back around his shoulders. “Another one,” Kethtia whispered.

“Hail and welcome, friends!” he hollered and waited for them to approach.

Nixie stopped about six feet in front of him and slid out of the saddle of her small pony. She bowed with her hand across her waist. “Greetings from the Wood Elf Council, Warlord Wolfsbane. We bring a guest to sanctuary within your walls.”

“I see this,” he replied, smiling. The crowd parted and the man stepped forward.

He had hair so blonde it was almost white. High cheekbones and a well formed mouth with generous lips presided over a square jaw and firm chin. Like the other, he had an ethereal quality to him but there was nothing feminine about the creature standing before him. His broad shoulders and tapering torso were perfectly formed. He bowed as he had seen Nixie do. “Hail! I beg sanctuary and to see Ferasyl,” he said in halting common.

“I am Brock Wolfsbane, Warlord of the Barbarians. This is my wife, Kethtia. We are pleased to meet you and will inform Ferasyl of your arrival. May we have your name?”

“My name is Francel. I am her brother.”

Kethtia grinned. “She will be so excited to see you. We have much news. Come, let’s get you all settled. Then we will tell you our tales and you can tell us yours.”

“I am grateful.”

They escorted him into the village square, walking slowly and giving him a chance to look around. He seemed fascinated by everything he saw. Tyson Joel had seen him arrive and hurried to Garth and Kethtia’s home to tell them another Avariel had arrived.

Morghan and Ferasyl had hurried toward the square. Ferasyl asked, “What is his name?”

“Francel, I think they said.”

She gasped. “Oh Goddess!” She leaped and took to the air, pumping her wings frantically, and shooting ahead of them.

“Ferasyl! Be careful!” Morghan shouted, breaking into a run. He reached the edge of the square just in time to hear her shout with joy.

“Rinn tu e!” You did it.

Francel grinned, leaped and pumped his wings. “Bean mo chroi!” Woman of my heart.

They nearly collided in mid air. He wrapped his arms around her and they twirled in the air, laughing and hugging each other. Then they gently flapped their wings and descended to terra firma. Morghan had his heart in his throat. The way she had greeted this handsome man had sent a pain through his heart. He was as beautiful as she and of the same coloring. He’d never bothered to ask her if she had a lover or husband at home. But she wouldn’t deceive him. He couldn’t believe it. She was so pure and seemed to honest and innocent. Surely he couldn’t have misread her intentions.

She turned smiling from ear and ear and pulled the man by the hand straight toward them. “Morghan!”

He smiled, feeling the ache in his cheeks as he did so. “Hail and welcome,” he said, nearly choking on the words.

“What is wrong?” Then she seemed to realize he was hurt. “He is Dearthaireacha!” she declared.

“I don’t understand.”

Adorabelle landed on his shoulder. “Brother, Morghan. It’s her brother.”

“Oh!” he exclaimed, feeling shivers of emotion wash through him along with the relief.

Ferasyl laughed and walked forward to wrap her arms around his waist and lean her head on his chest. She kissed the bottom of his chin, all she could reach with him standing up straight, and peered up at him with a grin of amusement on her face.

He wrapped one arm firmly around her waist and stuck out his other hand, shaking the man’s hand. He’d already learned this was a way that humans and others greeted one another, and sealed a deal. It was a gesture of respect and acknowledgement. He shook Morghan’s hand firmly, smiling and letting his gaze wander over Morghan from head to toe. “An bhfuil tu posta?” he asked.

Ferasyl gave a delicate snort and shook her head. “What?” Morghan asked.

“He asked if we were married already.”

“Oh Goddess,” he murmured under his breath.

“Don’t worry, I will explain to him later, a ghra mo chroi.”

“What does that mean?” he asked softly.

She smiled gently. “Love of my heart.”

He felt warmth wash through him and he planted a soft kiss on the top of her head and then turned back to Francel. The man looked at Morghan and Ferasyl. “Ta me I gcruachais.”

“He said, I need your help,.” Ferasyl informed them.

“And you shall have it,” Brock said. “Let’s get you some clean clothes and a place to stay.”

They quickly had him housed with Tristan and Bamba. They moved Tristina’s bed into their bedroom against the wall and had a bed brought into her room for Francel. Since Adorabelle spoke some Cliffsong, it made sense to have him there until he could get used to the place. He was as fascinated with the fairies as Ferasyl had been and grinned constantly at Pander and Adorabelle who followed him wherever he went. Adorabelle interpreted when someone said something beyond his understanding in common. But he had a head start on Ferasyl, knowing basic words and sentences.

They let him bathe and gave him new clothes. Marina made him buckskin tunics and pants as she had for Ferasyl, and cut holes in the back for his wings after measuring their depth along his spine. He soon had several long sleeved and sleeveless tops and several pair of soft buckskin pants. The clothes were heavier than they were used to wearing but he adjusted quickly, realizing the weather was harsher here and the protection was needed. In the cliff tops of Marshland, the murky, warm marsh was shrouded in a constant fog that held the heat. Moist air shrouded the aeries of the mountain and the climate was temperate and varied little throughout the seasons. Winds in the winter blew away some of the low lying fog but the air was still fairly warm. Here there were high winds and cold rain some days, others were blazing hot under the exposed son with no clouds to blunt its effect.

He spent hours with Ferasyl chattering in Cliffsong. Their musical voices were a source of fascination for all that hear them. Ferasyl explained that she was wooing Morghan, but he was still reluctant and she wasn’t rushing. He stayed on the couch in Garth and Kethtia’s house and accompanied her everywhere as her bodyguard.

Francel met Kiera and kissed her hands, thanking her for saving his sister. He thanked her every time he saw her to the point where it was almost annoying, but she was gracious about his gratitude and realized that he loved his sister very much.

Duvan and the rest met with the council and explained what was going on in Morin and that they, along with the Drow, believe it or not, were searching for the sorcerer. They didn’t dare move the Avariel until he had been found and they were relatively certain most of the Draganari had been wiped out.

Francel was taken to see the construction of the aeries and was astonished at how much had already been done, although it was still in the beginning stages. Areas had been marked on the stone in black tar to indicate door opening placements. And the men were busy at work chipping away rock to create wide, flat entrances as landing pads before the doors, so to speak. He supplied a current, accurate count of how many families remained. They would need about 50 aeries to house the current population. There were only about two hundred of them left.

Francel informed them that Zaheng was going to inform his people of their situation so there shouldn’t be any more straggling in until they received word that it was safe to travel. In the meantime, he was content to remain here and learn of the people on this side of the mountain where they were going to make their new home. His hope was that between he and Ferasyl they would be able to quickly educate their people and allay any fears they had of moving here. It was a giant undertaking for many, and many were still afraid to leave. They were, in effect, uprooting their entire lives. It was difficult to face the fear of the unknown, but they all knew they couldn’t continue in isolation. All that was left to them, other than a few exceptions, would be inbreeding. And they knew the dangers of that.

Almost everyone in a clan was related to everyone else in some fashion or another at this point. Each clan was denoted by the color of their wings, but now there were mixed breeds, which didn’t bother them. They had mixed to try and preserve the race, but even so, there were simply too few of them. Although they realized breeding with outsiders might mean future generations would lose the ability to fly, they had no choice but to take the risk. It was that or die out completely and they didn’t want to go down without a fight.

Chapter 16
Brevan Stronghold
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The rest of the escort party was housed in the bunkhouse, which wasn’t a problem for them. They didn’t plan on staying long and they all knew each other.

Xxxxxxxxxx

Duvan approached Lanna in the square before dinner and asked, “Have you seen Onyx?”

“No, I haven’t. I assumed she was in the Familiar Barn, or wandering the village. She does that sometimes.”

“I thought Losse was in the Barn too, or with Mabel but he’s not.”

“Uh oh, she was in heat.”

Duvan grinned. “We better try to find them.”

They scoured the village without success. Later that night, both wolves appeared in the square. They nuzzled one another but then separated to join their Masters. Duvan frowned ruefully. “I think the damage is done.”

Lanna laughed. “Oh boy. Well, if she has a litter, we’ll just have to see if we can train them. See if they connect with any rangers we have. If not, I’ll do my best to raise them. I don’t really want a pack on my hands though.”

“Well, we are their pack, they might integrate as long as they are taken charge of from the start.”

Lanna sighed and looked at Alec. “If she is pregnant, you’ll be pressed into service.”

He grinned. “You’ve taught me well. I can handle Onyx pretty well. If it happens, we’ll deal with it.”

“That’s the spirit,” Duvan said.

Xxxxxxxxxx
City of Shar
House of Xun
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Ruth was found and hauled in front of Issua as she sat on her throne in her meeting hall. Ruatha stood next to the chair trying not to look frightened. She couldn’t imagine how her mother had been found out. She thought she’d been careful. Who could have betrayed her? She could only assume if they knew about her mother, they knew about her and the other shoe would drop shortly. She’d be lucky to live out the day.

Ruth had her hands tied behind her back as Peter marched her into the audience chamber. Her hair was wild and tangled and the madness was clear on her face. Peter gave her a shove and she fell to her knees about six feet in front of Issua. She raised her face and spat at Issua’s feet.

“Charming,” Issua said. “You are as mad as you look Ruth.”

“Curses of Kalai-pahoa on you, bitch of a Xun!” she shouted.

“We have information that you plotted against the throne. Treason is punishable by death, but I wanted to give you a chance to explain yourself.”

Ruatha was surprised by this. Issua’s mother would have lopped off her head and been done with it, from what she’d heard.

“What do you have to say for yourself, or in your defense, if you have one?” Issua asked.

“Defense! You don’t deserve to rule, anymore than your bitch mother, you whelp!”

“Why did you do it, other than your obvious petty jealousy?” Issua asked calmly.

“Why? Your mother stole my man! She killed indiscriminately. She ruined the army! But I couldn’t have done any of it without my little helper.”

Ruatha gasped quietly and closed her eyes. She was doomed.

“And who would that be? You mean someone was insane enough to go along with your mad ravings?”

“Mad! You call me, mad? You’re the crazy one! And my darling daughter wanted your throne! Yes! Been in on it from the beginning, I tell you. It was all her idea actually. I admit I was furious with your Dam for taking my man, but Ruatha said she could infiltrate this quarry of stone and take what was rightfully hers.”

“Mother! For God sakes!”

Issua turned to Ruatha. “Was this your idea, Ruatha?” she asked.

“No! She hated your mother, she hated Father for leaving her! It drove her mad! She told me lies, made me believe he was nothing but a social climber! How else had he risen so quickly to Genera? She said he screwed his way to the top and had no sense of honor!”

“And you believed her?” Issua asked.

Ruatha’s mouth quivered. “At first, but then I learned he was promoted before he became a consort. But I believed her at first, to my own ruin.”

“But then?”

“I came here. I spent more time with Father than I ever had in my life. Found out he’d asked that I come here. We had dinners, talked. I learned that he was a military genius, respected by all his officers.”

“Genius!” Ruth spat. “Genius with that log between his legs, but not much else!”

“Silence!” Ruatha screamed, spittle flying from her lips. “No more, Mother! This was never my idea and you know it! You are a bitter, jealous, hateful old woman living on regrets and delusions of grandeur. A sore loser if ever there was one. I never wanted to rule, I never wanted that power, only security of a trusted position and I’d gained that here and now you ruin it for me.”

Ruth had struggled to her feet by the and looked up defiantly. “Ruined it? Darling, it was ruined the day I let you go. I knew you’re life would probably be forfeit. If you did manage to kill the whelp, no one would follow you. You haven’t the temperament for it. I would have been your reagent though and ruled from behind the throne.”

“And if I was killed in the process?”

“No big loss. You never were much of a master mind, but you suited my purpose and you could get in and whimper to your Father and gain his trust.”

Issua and Peter had watched Ruatha carefully through this little speech. She had quivered but then become deathly still. Her tears had dried up, her mouth had stopped quivering and her body had unconsciously relaxed into a perfectly still statue. Peter recognized it. It was battle mode. The girl had let anger and loathing wipe her mind clean of all but her target. What Ruth didn’t know is that Peter had trained her in her off hours. He’d taught her to shoot a bow, wield fighting knives and a long sword. She could hit a target with a throwing knife at fifty paces. She was strong, lithe and deadly by the time he’d finished her training.

Ruth was oblivious to the change. “What does it matter anyway? You’re dead now that they know you’ve plotted since the minute you got here.”

Ruatha’s voice came out clear and calm. “Perhaps. But I will die with the satisfaction of knowing I killed the one that ruined my life before I go.”

“Oh? And how to do plan to do that, you milquetoast?”

That was the final straw. She shrieked, pulled her fighting knives off her belt and leaped all in one fluid second. He saw the look of fear and surprise on Ruth’s face for a second. Then Ruatha was sailing through the air. Before she landed, both knives went into action, one across the woman’s neck, and one across abdomen. The blood was a fountain down the front of her neck and chest. Her innards slid smoothly out of her gut and fell to the floor in a stinking heap.

The woman crumpled, her knees buckling and she fell face first onto the floor into her own mess. She was dead before she hit the floor. A few gasps were heard, but none of the guards had moved an inch.

Ruatha wiped off her knives on her mother’s dirty smock and put them back in their holsters. She scowled at her mother’s dead body and hawked up a huge wad of spit and spat on her head. Then she looked up at Peter, tears reappearing in her eyes. “I’m so sorry, Father. I only believed her in the beginning. Once I was here, I knew her for a false prophet. So I delayed and stalled, but I knew … eventually, I would pay the price for her recklessness and savage hate. I know I die now, but just know that I love you. I never planned to go through with it, just feed her enough to keep her away.”

Peter leaned forward and kissed her forehead gently. “I love you too, but your fate is not in my hands.”

“I know.” She turned unbuckled her belt. She laid it on the step before Issua’s feet. Then she pulled her wrist sheaths off, and the knives in her boots and laid them there as well. She stood and bowed to Issua. “I’m sorry, I came to respect you as a strong and capable leader. I am a victim of my childhood love of my mother, the only parent I really had till I came here, but that makes me no less guilty. I accept my punishment, hopefully with dignity. I will die with honor.”

Issua was quiet for almost a full minute. No one moved, expecting the order to behead her to come at any moment. When she finally spoke, everyone was riveted. “You said you respected me, not revered me,” she stated.

Ruatha cleared her throat. “I revere God, and the avatars. I revere no man or woman. I’m to die and won’t lie at this point about my beliefs. To what purpose?”

Shuffling was heard amongst the guards. “Indeed. You truly love your father?”

“I do.”

“Had you the chance, you would follow him in battle and heed his orders without question?”

“I would.”

“And if I were to lead you, and order you, had you the chance, would you heed my orders without question and continue to respect me?”

“I would. I only wish I had the chance to prove it to you, my lady.”

The air was heavy in tension. “You are in luck today, Ruatha.”

“How so, Mistress?”

“I’m feeling merciful. Your mother was my enemy, and you killed her at my feet without hesitation when you recognized her as such.”

“I would do it again.”

“I’m going to grant your life, Ruatha, under one condition.”

The girl’s jaw dropped. “Anything, Mistress!” She fell to her knees.

More shuffling was heard amongst the guards. Issua raised her hand and silence fell on the room again. “You are to give me the names of every messenger, every person that has ever spied on your behalf, reported to your mother, or taught you of subversion.”

“I will compile a list immediately, Mistress. The list is short.”

“Well, that’s good to hear,” she said sarcastically. There was a little furtive chuckling.

“Peter, is your daughter fully trained in battle tactics?”

“She is, Mistress. One of the finest. I trained her to be a palace guard, and personal protector, to fight in close quarters, use stealth, and be inconspicuous. I fear I may have aided in her subversion by giving her these talents,” he replied regretfully.

Issua continued, “I didn’t always agree with my mother, but one thing she had that I have never indulged in is a personal body guard.”

“Is that wise?” one of her advisors said.

“If I spare your life, would you serve me with devotion and unswerving loyalty?”

“I would, Mistress!”

“Let me think on it a bit longer. Compile the list. Peter, escort her to her chambers and place two guards at the door.”

“As you wish, Mistress.”

He took Ruatha by the arm and she went docilely, following him with her head down.

Her advisor Jewel approached the throne slowly. “Mistress, she plotted against you. Giving her access to your person could be a grave mistake.”

Issua looked at Jewel. “I don’t think so. Having your life spared when you were certain of death has a peculiar effect on some people -- those that wish to serve and have place in the world, but are free of grand ambition. She is one of those.”

“I still think it’s a mistake.”

“There is more at work here, Jewel. A Seer foretold the exact events that took place in this chamber. She didn’t give details, but she said that if Ruth could be brought before me, the problem would be solved by someone else’s hand, other than mine or Peter’s.”

“A Truthsayer, Mistress? I didn’t know there was one in the house.”

“She isn’t in this house.”

“What else did she say, Mistress?”

“She said, and I quote, ‘But I caution you. Show mercy to Ruatha and she will become your greatest ally. Kill her and another will rise to take her place’.”

“Ah, so you knew she was involved from the start.”

“I did.”

“And that’s why you arranged to have her here under the pretense of attending her mother’s judgment as a kin witness.”

“Correct. I didn’t know that it would be her that would kill Ruth, but I knew it wouldn’t be Peter or I.”

“I see. Who is this Seer and Truthsayer, Mistress?”

“My niece.”

“Your sister’s child? You trust one that defected to puta?”

“Jewel, hear me. I will only say this once. The child, it is said, has never been wrong.”

“According to your sister!”

“Who has the favor of the avatars, who acknowledged the child as a Seer, asking her to keep her vision to herself when she accepted the gift of the avatar’s scale.”

“What?”

“Yes, the female avatar gave a scale to the child and the male gave a scale to each of her parents. Do you realize what that means?”

“They are under their protection.”

“Yes, the Drow have not had the favor of the dragons in many generations. We are gaining it now through my sister, her husband and that child. My sister is now a Vic and has no desire to rule. I have at least cordial contact with House Vic and the favor he now holds because of his son and my sister. I will NOT screw that up. Is that clear?”

“Yes, Mistress. I see clearly now.”

“Good. Changes are coming, Jewel. Many changes and I have a feeling they will not be easy to swallow. I need to be able to count on those closest to me to support me and enact these changes. Are you one of those I can count on, Jewel?”

“I am, Mistress, always.”

“See that it remains that way. I’m going to my chambers. Send Peter to me once Ruatha is under guard.” She looked at Ruth, dead on the floor. “Have someone throw out that trash.”

“Yes, Mistress.”

Chapter 17
Morin
Forest Northwest of the Sacred Forest
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The edges of the shrouded marsh could be seen in the distance from this ridge. Belgar surveyed the landscape and determined that one small pass led into the valley between this ridge and the edge of the Sacred Forest. The Wood Elves had eyed them with wariness but let them pass as they had been instructed to do after pointing out the area that they said was foul with black magic.

He could not sense it, although there was an eerie atmosphere to the place. He was uneasy and not sure why and he didn’t like it. “Commander?” one of the men called, approaching slowly.

“Yes?”

“What’s the plan?” Jorel asked. He was his second in command.

“I see one pass into that valley. Do you see anything that I missed?”

“No, Sir. That was my assessment as well.” One of the things that bound his men to him with such loyalty was his ability to ask their advice without conceding his own rank and power. It made them feel worthy and not merely fodder or pawns in campaigns such as this. While the Drow respected prowess in battle above all, Belgar was infamous for losing the least amount of men in these campaigns. This was attributed to his prior planning and strategic genius. Unlike other commanders, he never rushed in without carefully planning out the attack.

“Have one platoon spread out along the edge of the edge of Sacred Forest. Other than that pass, it’s the only retreat. Now the avatars said they wouldn’t enter the Sacred Forest, but who knows what might happen if they panic. Choices of life and death can make you do things you never thought you would do.”

“That’s the truth. Okay, so they stand there to cut off any retreat into the Sacred Forest.”

“The rest of us will enter the Pass. It’s a gorge so we can only go in four abreast. We will fan out to either side once inside, form up the lines and then move slowly and carefully inward toward the center.”

“Do we try to capture him or her?”

“No. Aim to kill. Tell all the men. If they have a shot, take it, but watch out for friendly fire. I don’t want any stupid casualties. Sorcerer or not, he’s one man. If he isn’t within and we find the breach, keep away from it, but direct our mages to it immediately.”

“What does the breach look like?”

“I have no idea. I’m assuming we’ll know it when we see it. The mages should know it.”

“Okay, I’ll spread the word.”

“Tell them to be ready to move in a half hour.”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Oh, and remind them. If we encounter the Dragonari, aim for the neck or the face. Swords will just bounce off their body armor. Remind the men.”

“Yes, sir.” He shuffled his feet.

“Something bothering you?”

“Are the Dragonari part dragon? I mean, if they are some lesser version of the avatars.”

Belgar scowled down at him. “They are dragon-like, have some of their traits, like the scales but they are not the avatars. I was there when the Dragons said they despised them. They want them dead, and that’s good enough for me.”

“Yes, Sir. Anything else, Sir?”

“No. I hate magic, Jorel. I’d much rather rely on my sword. That I can trust.”

“Me too, Sir.”

“May we both live out the night,” he said by way of dismissal. It was an old gesture, meaning as their God willed, they would prevail in battle. It was the closest thing to ‘good luck’ in their vocabulary, not that they believed in luck.

Jorel turned and trotted off to talk to the captains of each squad. He watched him go.

Xxxxxxxxxx

The night was quiet. No birds or forest sounds. It put Belgar on edge. Their plan went well and they entered the area, finding a clearing at the center. A fire pit, long dead was off to one side. In the center a black pillar of undulating smoke rose from the ground in the center of a giant black, wax pentagram. There was no hole, just dirt below it and the soldiers stayed well back from it.

Iltharen Sabvic and Chalneer Arkenvic, two premier mages, both from House Vic approached carefully and stood on opposite sides of the column of black smoke. They both carefully probed the smoke and recoiled in horror. It felt foul, even to a Drow. They began chanting after casting protection spells on themselves. In one hand was their staff, in the other a pure iron knife. Each wore a helmet of iron.

It began slowly, their voices gaining strength and volume. At first nothing seemed to happen. Then the smoke became agitated, losing its hypnotic undulation and beginning to swirl and twist and break apart in places. Squeals and roars of anger were heard, seemingly coming from nowhere. The black smoke contracted and then burst out suddenly as if trying to escape a cage but it stopped as if hitting a wall and recoiled again.

The sound became unbearable and soldiers covered their ears. “Rip your cuffs, stuff cloth in your ears. Keep your hands free!” Belgar hissed and the word traveled around the circle.” He could hear soldiers tearing and cutting the cloth of their cuffs with daggers and wadding it up into their ears under their helmets.

The earth suddenly heaved beneath them. Some lost their footing and fell to their knees. Both mages stayed upright and didn’t break their chant. The ground cracked open below the smoke. Belches of black smoke and the rushing heat of fire roared from the hole, casting an eerie red glow over the clearing.

Without warning, Dragonari began popping up out of the hole as if they’d been thrown into the air. They landed smoothly and screeched, immediately attacking. Belgar shouted. “Captains! Guard the mages’ backs!”

Three men spread out around each mage, crouched and ready to strike anything that came at the mages. Sweat poured down their faces, tears ran from their eyes, but neither wavered in their chant, their voices rising and falling in harmony that was a droning undercurrent in comparison to the horrid shrieking of the hell spawn. The soldiers jumped into action, several descending on each creature the moment it appeared and cutting it down. Others would jump in and pull it free from the clearing, giving the fighters room to fight without worrying about falling over dead bodies. The battle raged for a half hour or so.

Finally, there was a loud bang. Steam hissed out the hole and the black smoke contracted into a small ball and shot into the ground.

Another bang like two boulders smacking together sounded over the clearing and the black smoke was no more. Moonlight shown down over the clearing, showing only sand. Soldiers looked around. Dead Dragonari were littered in a circle behind their backs, having been tossed carelessly during the fight.

Both mages sank to their knees, dropping their arms, although still clutching their staffs and daggers. Belgar shouted to nearby men. “Bring canteens for the mages. Jorel, get a medic in here.”

He carefully helped them remove their helmets. The medic appeared and dumped a canteen of water into a small pot and then dumped some powder in it. He wet a rag and began wiping their faces and arms and necks. They each drank nearly a full canteen of water.

The medic handed another canteen to a soldier. “Pour half in an empty canteen and have them each drink.”

“What is it?”

“A tea to help them restore the fluids they’ve lost. They are dehydrated.”

The soldier ran to obey and returned with a second canteen, handing one to each mage. “Well done,” Belgar complimented them.

Iltharen looked up and croaked. “I thought I knew evil. That was the most foul energy I have ever faced.”

Chalneer nodded. “I concur, brother. I don’t shrink from much, but there were moments I wanted to run in sheer terror.”

Murmurs were heard and Belgar shot out a hand for silence. It was unheard of for a Drow to admit terror. It was considered a weakness. “Not one word,” Belgar growled. They caught his meaning. No one was repeat that.

Iltharen looked up at Belgar again. “It’s not what you think. It was not fear of a material foe. They were trying to assault our minds with twisted images of eternal suffering in rivers of fire. It winked in and out. The iron helmets protected us. Without them, our minds could have been shattered.”

“Ah, well, I’m glad you both survived the ordeal.” He turned to the troops. “And unless any of you think you could have done what was accomplished here tonight, I don’t want to hear one derogatory word. Do I make myself clear?” he shouted.

There were nods all around and murmurs of consent. “They are brave men,” Jorel announced. It was the highest compliment.

“Indeed, the bravest,” Belgar said.

Xxxxxxxxxx

There were still hours before Dawn but they were all exhausted and shaken. It felt like they’d lived a lifetime in those couple hours, but it really hadn’t been that long. They hiked out of the clearing till they reached the outskirts of the Sacred Forest near the road.

A stunning Wood Elf seemed to materialize out of the foliage that lined the road. Several gasps were heard as they gazed at the white haired elf. She had an ornate bow strung on her back and her white face almost glowed in the darkness. “Hail. I am called Carling. Who speaks for the Drow?”

Belgar stood, tugged his tunic down, feeling unreasonably mussed and dirty staring at this exquisite being. “I do. My name is Belgar, General of House Vic.”

“The Diad has reported that the foul magic is no more. We are grateful to you for eliminating it before it fouled our forest.”

“The Diad?”

“Our druid twins that lead the spiritual life of our people.”

“How did they know? We’re they watching the battle from outside the clearing?” he asked. It disconcerted him that no one had detected anyone else in the vicinity.

She smiled. “No, they never leave Aelfdene.”

“Then how?” he began.

Carling smiled again. “The Diad sees far, General. They told me where to find you. Do you have adequate food and supplies?”

He cleared his throat, deciding it was not the time to question this creature about how they were found so easily. He figured he wouldn’t like the answer. “We will survive. We are low on rations, but decided to go without so we could camp and rest. The soldiers are exhausted.”

“Do you eat fruit and vegetables, or only meat?”

“Both. We don’t get fruit and vegetables much, but we love them.”

She smiled. “We do not eat meat, but can procure it. We will bring food if we can be assured of our safety.”

“We would be most grateful. To replenish ourselves before we hike back would be appreciated.”

“Then it shall be so in payment for your bravery this night. I will return shortly.” She turned and virtually melted into the trees as though she’d disappeared. Several gasps were heard and murmured questions circled the camp.

Belgar held up a hand. “We don’t have the answers. As you have all heard, Tartree claims the puta tribes have many advantages we are unaware of. Until we learn, I suggest we go with the flow. If they return, be gracious and for Kalai’s sake, no one lay a hand on any of them.”

“She was a comely, General,” one of the soldiers said, and laughed. “I wouldn’t mind a piece of that little booty.”

Belgar drew his sword. It sang out of the scabbard and was under the man’s chin before he could turn his head. “Touch any one of them and I’ll remove your arm,” he barked. “Is that clear, soldier?”

“Yes, Sir!” he shouted.

Belgar stared at him until he lowered his eyes. “And no rude comments either. I mean it. We are here under orders of the avatar. The Wood Elves were asked to grant us passage. We were warned specifically not to harm them. Do you want to be the one to explain to Naricon why we no longer have the avatar’s favor? Huh?”

“No, Sir!”

“Keep your unclean thoughts to yourself, soldier. That goes for everyone. No exceptions. This is the only warning I will give.” With that, he shoved his sword back in its scabbard, turned on his heel and stomped away to his tent.

Fifteen minutes later, male and female Wood Elves began emerging slowly from the trees, carrying baskets woven from leaves and heaped with peaches, plums, apples, bananas, pears and oranges. Others had baskets of raw string beans, tomatoes, heads of broccoli and almonds and walnuts. They merely set them on the ground at the edge of the camp in a line and melted back into the trees.

The captains retrieved the baskets and started handing them out, ordering the men to line up so they didn’t have a free-for-all with men falling on the food. They were all hungry and exhausted, and got so little fruit. It tasted like ambrosia to them.

They had nearly finished it all when the Wood Elves appeared again and laid another set of baskets on the ground and melted back into the trees. Jorel was staring at the trees as his captains handed out the food again. “That was very generous of them. That’s a lot of food.”

“I know,” Belgar replied. Belgar raised his voice. “Thank you!” he hollered into the trees, feeling a little foolish. “We appreciate your kindness!”

“Think they can hear you?”

“I don’t know, but it couldn’t hurt.”

A voice drifted out of the leaves, so dense you couldn’t see beyond them. “We hear you. You are welcome.”

Jorel smiled. “Well, that doesn’t happen every day.”

“No, no it doesn’t. I fear we’ve been woefully ignorant about these surface tribes.”

Jorel noticed he didn’t say ‘puta’.

“I think you’re right. We’ve severely underestimated them.”

“Yes, why do you think that is?”

“I think our error was in thinking they wanted the same things we did,” Jorel replied.

“Very astute. I believe you speak true. They don’t battle for wealth and power, not because they can’t, but because they simply don’t want it. That’s what Tartree says.”

“How can that be?”

“I don’t know, but I think we better learn fast.” He paused. “We are a dying race, Jorel, you know that, don’t you?”

“Yes. Many don’t want to believe it, but if you look at the big picture, look outside your own little House, you can see the diminishing returns, no matter how many babies are born. Elders die faster than they can be replaced, and we are down to three Houses now. I can remember when there were five major houses.”

Belgar chuckled. “I can remember when there were ten. I may perish before we go extinct, but it will happen unless we change our ways.”

“Meaning what?”

“We have to have new blood, Jorel. And we have to stop killing each other off in the name of petty vengeance and power. Infighting is killing us.”

“Do you think we can do it? Breed with puta?” He sounded a bit disgusted.

“I don’t know. Surprisingly, House Xun seems willing to make some changes. Issua is going along with Naricon for now anyway.”

“If the two major Houses will lead, we might stand a chance.”

“It won’t be easy, no matter what.”

“No. Change is never easy,” Jorel said rhetorically.

“This time I think it’s worth the cost.”

“But then … who will we be if we give up our society’s power structure?”

“We will be Drow, but I think if we are to survive, we must give up the notion that our way is the only way.”

“That’s bred into us.”

“I know, but there are those of us who have never believed it with a whole heart.”

“You?”

Belgar looked at him out of the corner of h is eye and pursed his lips. “I have always known there are other ways of doing things, even better ways, but before now, there was never a reason to learn of them, or practice them. What was the point? I made my name and place in House Vic. I didn’t want to give up what I’d earned through blood and sweat. Now though, I’m older and I realize that satisfaction only carries you so far. I’m tired of sneaking out to see my mistress, going to bed alone by day. It’s all become … going through the motions. There is no happiness in it anymore.”

“I think I see what you’re saying.”

“Well, we won’t solve the world’s problems tonight.”

“No, but at least we go to bed with a full stomach.”

Belgar smiled finally. “Indeed we do, because of the generosity of mysterious little woodland creatures. Who would have thought that was possible?”

Chapter 18
Morin
Dragon Clearing
Xxxxxxxxxx

Two weeks later, they still hadn’t found the sorcerer, but they met with Zaheng and informed him that the breech had been closed. Hopefully it was the only one. As a reward, Zaheng handed a soft velvet bag full of gems to Belgar and instructed him to give it to Naricon with the admonition that it be divided among those that had helped close the portal.

Belgar was shocked when he peaked into the bag and saw the heap of rubies, emeralds, sapphires and diamonds. He thanked him profusely and put it inside his tunic near his heart, afraid to let the soldiers know how much wealth was in this little sac. They respected him, but that much wealth could blind a man to all else and he didn’t feel like being jumped and killed on the march back into the City.

When questioned, he merely said, “A couple of gems for Naricon.” As it was, no one dared press him for a more explicit answer. They were still reeling from all this recent contact with the dragons, feeling privileged just to have been included in the group that went to the meeting. They would be bragging about it for days.

Xxxxxxxxxx
Brevan Stronghold
Xxxxxxxxxx

Morghan hadn’t gotten any time alone with Ferasyl since her brother had come. While was glad that she seemed happier with him there, he missed their long, solitary walks around the village telling each of their lives. She was young, for an Elf, only 30, but she was a leader among her people. Her mother was really the wise elder, but more and more people came to Ferasyl expecting her to take her mother’s place. She and Francel had always been close and everyone expected them to rule together once her mother retired her position. It was informal. They had no real government but leaders were always chosen to settle disputes or dispense advise to the young.

He realized what that meant. If he pursued a relationship with her, he would always share her with others. He’d never thought of himself as a greedy or possessive person. Then again, he’d never been in love before. This was definitely love. Oh, he’d had a few dalliances with ladies of the court, but nothing had ever turned serious. This was very serious. It was a completely new reality filled with turbulent emotion, fear of loss and scary decisions.

He also realized she was a nature creature. She could never live in the City. That would mean he would have to leave to live here and find a place for himself. He had no idea what that place might be. All these things were swirling in his mind as he saw Francel approach the porch of Garth and Kiera’s house, as he leaned negligently against the post.

“She’s off with Marina to be fitted for some summer linen dresses more to her liking,” he informed Francel as he approached.

Francel smiled. “Actually, I came to talk to you.”

“Oh, can I get you something to drink?”

“Some of that lemonade would be great,” he replied.

Morghan went inside and emerged with two mugs filled with lemonade. It was a favorite of Kiera’s and she always had a pitcher of it in the ice box. They sat on the bench like seat on the porch, Francel sitting forward to leave room for his wings. “What can I do for you?” Morghan asked.

Francel looked at him. “Actually, I was wondering if you had questions about us.”

“Tons,” Morghan said, realizing he didn’t recognize the word. “A lot,” he amended.

Francel nodded. “Let me answer for you,” he said, using that odd phrasing that was never quite right in those that learned common late in life.

“I don’t know where to begin. Ferasyl has told me a lot about your society, social structure and life-style, but she says little of herself other than you and she are to be leaders.”

“Ferasyl can seem innocent as a child sometimes but she is wise in her … simplicity.”

“I think she’s very smart,” Morghan rejoined immediately, feeling a fierce need to defend her.

“Oh yes, I didn’t mean that she was not smart. Forgive me. I sometimes don’t have the right words in common. I mean that she sees through all extra information to the core of things if that makes sense.”

“Yes, it does.”

“She said she did a mind transfer with you,” he stated.

“When she gave me her feelings about our first encounter? Is that what you call it?”

“Yes, she shared this with me also. I was amazed at your prowess, considering you cannot fly.”

Morghan laughed and said, “We have other compensations and other skills.”

Francel chuckled. “Indeed. She cares for you deeply, Morghan McKent.”

“The feeling is mutual, but I respect her. Have no fear for her virtue.”

Now Francel laughed heartily. “I’m not worried about that. She is way past her time to choose a mate.”

Morghan asked, “Is that required?”

“She is thirty years old. We can choose a mate by the time we are twenty, often earlier in some cases. She has been teased mercilessly for her restraint.”

“Why?”

“Because it is unusual. As a dying race, mating is encouraged as soon as it is possible. Some feared she would never choose. Many of our people view this as a waste as she could clearly breed.”

“Breed? You think of your women as brood mares?” Morghan asked, feeling anger spike through im and telling himself to calm down.

“No, you misunderstand. But when your race is dying, mating is seen as a joyous, but also a necessary thing.”

“I think I understand.”

“My point is that I am happy for her and don’t wish you to hold back because of me. I very much approve.”

“Even though I can’t fly?” Morghan joked wryly.

Francel laughed again. “Yes, many of us will have to face this integration if we are to survive. It is necessary, but not a fearful thing to us. Moving out of the marshes is more frightening than blending with others. It is the only home we have ever known.”

“I see. Are there any courtship rituals I should know about?”

“Can you sing?”

“I can get by for my own people, but nothing like you two. I sound like a croaking frog compared to you.”

Francel grinned. “Our people find all singing beautiful and joyous, and romantic, from the ribald to the aria.”

“Do you require marriage before … consummating?”

“Consummating?” He paused. “Oh! Before mating? No, it is preferred, but not necessary.”

“I have much to think about. I need to find a place here. I don’t normally live here in Brevan.”

“I know. She said you lived in a great communal stone aerie.”

Morghan laughed. “We call it a City.”

“Like Elvin?”

“Sort of, but about three times larger. Within it are individual family homes and shops, along with the palace and professional guilds.”

“Three times as large as Elvin? Oh my!”

“I’ll take you there sometime in the future.”

“I can’t imagine it.”

“Francel, I love your sister, but I haven’t worked out the details, like what I would do for a living, etcetera. I want to have those things figured out before I commit to her. Do you understand? I have a life I will have to pack up in the City, obligations to complete.”

“Yes, I understand. You are a man of deep, careful thought and planning. That is good.”

“Except when there is a beautiful damsel-in-distress being chased by evil creatures; then I tend to leap before I look,” he said.

Francel chuckled again. “Come to me if you have questions.”

“I will. Thank you for your blessing.”

“You’re welcome.”

Chapter 19
Marshland
Xxxxxxxxxx

Orion approached the aeries slowly and carefully, riding the currents, giving them plenty of time to see them coming. Sneaking up on them would be a grave mistake. They were still plenty wary and he didn’t blame them. Although he personally had nothing to do with their enmity, he had the genetic memories of the war. A stupid war fought over game and territory. Hopefully, all remaining dragons were much wiser. Zoggar had been little more than a hatchling near the end of that war, but he remembered his father admitting the Dragonari were an atrocious mistake.

Twenty Avariel males appeared on a carved courtyard, bows at the ready. Taking the tail scale he’d removed in preparation for this meeting he hollered, “By my oath, I come in peace!” He tossed the scale like a discus and it landed at the feet of the Avariel.

They recognized it for what it was. No dragon would break an oath taken over a tail scale. They lowered their weapons and backed up, giving him room to land on the courtyard stone railing. All was silent as he perched on the railing and looked them over. “I bring word from Zaheng and Olima of Morin!” he said. “Will you hear me?”

A dark haired man with flowing black hair and black wings stepped forward. “We will hear you, Dragon.”

“I am Orion, son of Quetzacoatl, mate to Zoganna. We join with the two-legged tribes to help with your plight.”

“You have news?” he asked, still wary.

“Indeed. Both of your messengers, by the names of Ferasyl and Francel have reached sanctuary on the far side of the mountain with people called the Barbarians.”

Sighs of relief went through those assembled. He could see others clustering in the doorways of the surrounding aeries, watching and listening. “Plans are underway to make a suitable location for you, but this will take time. They ask that no one else be sent until word can be brought that it is safe to move. The breech to the underworld has been sealed, but the foul sorcerer is still at large and being hunted in Morin. Until he is found and eliminated, they dare not have you migrate, as he could open another breech.”

“So, good news and bad news. I am known as Gomar Black. He turned and coaxed a female forward. She was small and blonde with white wings. This is Forella White, mother of the two of which you speak.”

“My children live? It is truly so?” she asked quietly.

Orion peered at her. “Yes, as of when I received this message. Both were given sanctuary in Aelfdene, by the Wood Elves mid-way through their journey. Both were pursued by Dragonari that were killed by various tribes, but both survived and are alive in Brevan at last word.”

“Oh, thank Chareth!” she exclaimed, leaning against Gomar’s side in relief. He patted her hair.

“Was there more to the message?” Gomar asked.

“No, they didn’t go into details other than to make sure you didn’t send any others until they can bring word that it is safe to travel. However, we wished you to know that you have the good will of the dragons. We have no wish to harm you and despise the actions of our ancestors. We are a new breed. Zaheng and Olima were raised by Humans and taught to revere and live in peace with all sentient life. We are also a dying race and have empathy for your plight. When the time comes, we would be glad to assist and guard you on your migration if you will allow.”

“Well, that’s different,” another Avariel said. This one had black hair and wings also.

“Rowena, shush,” Gomar said.

Orion chuckled, made a choking sound, and turned his head as a spray of ice exited his nostrils and went out over the balcony. Spraying their courtyard with ice would not make a good impression. He turned back finding them all smiling with suppressed mirth. Gomar asked, “Will this word come from you?”

“Probably, but I cannot say for sure until I know their plan. They may sent an escort, or ask us to escort you to the edge of the marshes. In any case, I will try to bring you word as soon as I know more.”

“Very well, we will await further word from our brethren.”

“Fare well,” he said, nodding. Then he flapped his wings, blowing their hair and clothing back and launched himself off the railing, turning and shooting off into the clouds.

There was silence for several moments. “What do you think?” Gomar asked.

Forella stepped forward and picked up the small purple tail scale and held it up. “He left this. Besides, for the moment, I don’t see that we have any choice but to believe him.”

Rowena asked, “But how long do we wait?”

Gomar frowned. “I say we give it a couple months at least. If we haven’t heard by then, perhaps we can seek them out and ask them to find out more if they can.”

Forella sighed. “Best we can do under the circumstances. I choose to believe Ferasyl and Francel are alive.” She paused. “I have to believe it.” With that she turned and left, cradling the dragon scale to her chest.

Xxxxxxxxxx
Amazon Rainforest
Eastern Side
Xxxxxxxxxx

Several days later, a myr kyr from House Xun came upon a cave, the entrance to which was covered with a fine array of foliage. The foul smell wafting in the area is what had led them to it. There was little evidence of occupation other than a few foot prints in the turf outside the cave. The impression was not from footwear they were familiar with.

The molael oli motioned everyone to back away into the trees. He crept to the edge of the cave mouth, and carefully pried a branch out of his way, lifting it and slipping inside. The branch fell back into place, giving no evidence of his passage. He was gone for long minutes and then emerged again quickly, melting into the trees. They followed him away from the cave. “No one is there now, but it’s occupied. There is survival equipment and all manner of magic apparatus that I don’t recognize. We should return with a warrior party and mages and wait for him to return. If he knows we’ve been here, or we wait and he spots us, he will simply move. But I suspect this is the culprit we seek.”

With that they turned and followed him. The Silent One’s orders were almost always followed. Several wanted to stay and fight this sorcerer for the glory of taking out the quarry that the avatar wanted eliminated, but they recognized it might be foolish without a mage to counteract the sorcerer. Credit would also be given to those that located him, so they took comfort in that. Word had already spread that Naricon’s troops that sealed the breech had been rewarded richly.

Chapter 20
City of Shar
Xun Complex
xxxxxxxxxx

Peter knocked on the door of her private chambers.

“Enter,” she called.

He came in and stood inside the door. She was seated at a table going over intelligence reports. “We have word from our scout group, Issua,” he informed her. He liked being able to call her by name as long as they were alone.

She looked up. “What news?”

“We think we’ve located the cave where the sorcerer is staying. They returned, saying the molael oli advised they return and try to attack with a mage in attendance.”

“Good move. Should we inform House Vic or try to take him out ourselves?”

“Normally, I would do it ourselves, but if we are truly to cement our relationship with House Vic and your sister, then perhaps we can propose a joint group.”

She pulled on her lip with her thumb and forefinger, something she did when she was deep in thought. He found it endearing, but would never risk telling her so. “While I would love to take the glory for our House alone, I believe your right. The impression I’m getting from all sides is that cooperation is being rewarded by the avatars. They have no patience for in-fighting and what they consider our petty differences.”

“I agree. I think that’s wise.”

She smiled. “Do you humor me?”

“Never. I truly think you have the right of it. We can claim high chain of command, as we found the cave. But including them will soften them to our involvement in the future as well.”

“Very well. Summon your daughter.”

“Issua?”

She smiled. “I have her first assignment.”

He nodded and left. Things were moving swiftly. If she played this right, she could gain a loyal servant and the favor of the avatars. She didn’t doubt the child, but she knew that others did and she was walking a delicate balance between what she knew was true and not alienating her most trusted advisors, like Jewel. It wasn’t the first tight rope she’d walked, but it might be the one with the most dire consequences if she fell. Then again, no risk, no glory.

Peter knocked and entered with Ruatha at his side. She stood at attention. Issua uncurled herself from her chair with feline grace and went to an armoire against the wall. She opened it, picking up several items and turned and walked back to Ruatha. She held up a belt with fighting knives in one hand. In the other were two wrist sheaths with throwing knives and two boot holsters with knives.

Ruatha’s eyes widened. “Will you be my personal body guard in public, Ruatha? Will you protect me from all physical threats to my person even at the risk of your own life?” she asked.

Ruatha swallowed hard. “I would be honored, Mistress.”

“This is your second chance. You will not be given another, do you understand?”

“I do, Mistress, and I thank you for your mercy.”

“Very well, reclaim your weapons. I must travel to House Vic with all haste.”

“Yes, Mistress!” She took the weapons and strapped them on. Peter smiled at Issua from over her shoulder.

“Peter, I would like you to accompany me as well to propose your idea of a joint venture.”

“Yes, Mistress,” he said obediently.

She exited the room and they trailed after her. Once in the street, Peter and Ruatha easily swung into symbiotic guard positions, Ruatha in front and slightly to the right, Peter behind and slightly to the left. Her eyes and head swung continuously to the left and right, alert for danger. Her pace was brisk but not so fast as not to be cautious. She was taking her duties very seriously.

She knew she had escaped death by the skin of her teeth. She was still frankly quite amazed that her death hadn’t been ordered forthwith. She suspected her father had something to do with it, but she wasn’t going to ask. Maybe one day he would tell her. She vowed to herself to make up for her years of being mislead by her mother. They arrived at the gates of House Vic without incident.

They entered the lobby and Ruatha was slightly surprised that they weren’t asked to relinquish their weapons. Naricon Vic strode into the foyer and stopped. “I assume this isn’t a social call?” he asked.

Issua smiled. “No, we have important information and wish to discuss a joint mission with you in private.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Really? Well, step into my office.”

Ruatha was prepared to be asked to stay in the foyer, but Peter waved her ahead. She nodded and entered the library/study room ahead of her father and Issua. Peter and Issua took chairs in front of a gigantic marble desk behind which Naricon sat. Ruatha discreetly positioned herself with her back against the wall where she could see Naricon, the chairs and the doorway entrance.

Naricon smiled at her, noticing her strategic positioning but said nothing. He turned back to Issua. “What is your proposal?”

“We believe we have located the cave dwelling of the sorcerer,” she began.

He sat forward abruptly in his chair. “You have? And you didn’t attack?”

“He wasn’t there, only evidence of his habitation. It was a myr kyr that located it, and the molael oli recommended they return with a warrior platoon and mages.”

“Remarkable restraint,” Naricon commented.

Issua smirked. “My people are not rash. They realize the importance of this task for the avatars. Frankly, I would love to claim the glory, but I realize this is bigger than my own House.”

Naricon sat back contemplating the young Ruler in front of him. There was more to her than he realized. She was wise beyond her years. “I appreciate your including us. What do you propose?”

Issua waved to Peter. He cleared his throat. “I think we should take two groups, say ten men each, and at least two mages and two molael oli, one from each house. The mages can try to counter any magic, and the troops can attempt to trap him in the cave and dispense with him. I don’t want to bring too many men. We need to be able to hide and not tip him off. If he senses our presence, he could bolt. Therefore, the mages could help conceal our presence in the area. The molael oli could determine if he is there. If not, we conceal and wait for him to return to his ‘home’, and then we strike.”

“It’s a sound plan. Who would lead this little expedition?”

“I would,” Peter said firmly.

Naricon opened his mouth, about to protest, but Issua shook her head. “We found the cave, Naricon. It is within our right to claim chain of command. We didn’t have to tell you about this.”

He pursed his lips. She had him. By the rules of engagement, she had the right to claim high chain of command. She was also correct that she could have enacted this plan without him. This way both houses would share in the prize and the favor of the avatars. It was a compromise he was willing to accept. He could try to send a group ahead of this joint one, but if the culprit got away, he would have to answer for it and he had no wish to madden the avatars again, although they said there was no penalty for failure. He feared sabotage would be considered more than failure and subject to punishment. He shivered inwardly, not wanting to contemplate what that punishment might be. Burning to death was not high on his list of priorities.

“Very well. I will send my trusted General, Belgar, to command my troops, but he will bow to your final say,” he said to Peter.

Peter nodded. “Very well. The night is young, I would like to leave by midnight. We might get lucky and catch him in house. Does that give you enough time to assemble your troops?” It was about eight in the evening.

“Plenty.”

“We’ll meet at the east side exit tunnel. It’s about a mile hike straight east from there.”

“Very well.”

Just then a knock came on the door. “Enter,” Naricon said in raised voice.

Kacey skipped into the room. Her kinky curls fell in a riot over her shoulders and she blinked taking in the room. “Granddaughter?” he addressed her.

“You better summon Belgar now.”

“Why is that child?” He didn’t question how she knew what was going on, but had no doubt that she did.

“Because, if you delay, it will be disastrous. Someone wants to kill him.”

He leaped out his chair and trotted to the door, waving to the guard. “Summon Belgar immediately. Tell him to get here with haste and watch his back.”

“Yes, Sire!” the guard shouted and took off down the hall toward the back door that lead to the barracks.

Naricon returned to his desk. “Shall we retrieve him?” Peter asked.

Issua turned to Ruatha. “Go, escort him back.”

“Yes, Mistress!” She turned and fled the room without question.

“You send your own to protect mine. I’m impressed,” Naricon commented.

“We all need people we can trust now, Naricon. We can’t spare any of them.”

“Very true.”

Xxxxxxxxxx

Ruatha entered the Vic barracks and scanned the common room. She spotted Belgar. She’d seen him before. His red sash indicated he was a General and she had the right person. The guard was standing in front of him saying he was to go to Naricon immediately.

The big man heaved sigh and raised an apple to his mouth. She didn’t even know why she did it, but she leaped forward in front of the guard and smashed the apple out of his hand. Swords were heard singing out their scabbards. “What is the meaning of this?” Belgar roared. “Who are you?”

She realized she better talk fast. “I’m Issua’s personal bodyguard. She sent me to escort you. There is a plot against your life. That apple is whole, was it tasted?”

He frowned and leaned down, picking up the apple. It had split open and there was a tinge of green inside. He paled. She heard the door open at the back of the room and her head shot up. “Stop him!” he shouted.

Four men grabbed the man and restrained him, hauling him to table. One of the men shoved the back of his head and it banged onto the table. “Why were you leaving?” Ruatha spat out.

Belgar stood and frowned. The soldier restraining him yanked his head back by the hair. “Answer!”

Belgar said, “Jorel, do you know of this?” he asked, holding out the tainted apple.

The man grunted but didn’t answer.

“He’s not protesting his innocence,” Ruatha said.

Belgar said, “I trusted you, Jorel.”

“Which is why you shouldn’t lead, Belgar. You’ve gotten soft with your talk of better ways of doing things and coddling Wood Elves.”

“Shall I kill him?” the soldier asked.

“No, he comes with us,” Belgar said, sounding sad. He turned to Ruatha. “I thank you. You saved my life.”

“My pleasure. Let’s get back.”

They exited the room, four soldiers stripped Jorel of his weapons and hustling him out the door behind them.

Chapter 21
Amazon Rainforest
Eastern Side
Xxxxxxxxxx

The evil sorcerer was dead. He’d returned to his cave home none the wiser. Once inside, the troops had descended on him and surrounded the cave entrance, preventing any chance of escape. The silent ones and the mages entered first. He tried to take out the mages with dark bolts of energy and lightening that crackled off the walls, but they were able to counteract him and the silent ones had agilely dodged his strikes. While he focused on the mages, Xun’s molael oli slipped behind him and slit his throat, dancing away nimbly as his last fire dart shot out and sprayed dirt and rock from the wall where it struck. The warriors never had to swing their swords.

They wrapped him in a hide and put him on a litter. The mages carefully packaged up all his paraphernalia, hoping to learn something of it, or in case the avatars wanted it. They wasted no time hiking to the Dragon clearing. Tartree had followed at a distance. Once it was over he joined them for the hike to the clearing and placed his red scale on the big boulder at the end of the clearing.

They set up camp and prepared to wait.

Xxxxxxxxxx
Dragon’s Lair
Xxxxxxxxxx

Olima spotted them making camp and the body they had wrapped in a hide and set on a bier under which they’d prepared a bonfire that remained unlit. She flew silently back to her lair. Zaheng was waiting in the entrance to their treasure chamber. “What is it, beloved?” he asked, seeing she was excited.

“The Drow have actually come through for us, darling. They have a body and are camped in the clearing. One of the defectors left his scale on the boulder.”

“Ah, how many in the party?”

“Looks like twenty soldiers, two rogues, two mages. Either Tartree or Jhultrin must be with them as it’s your scale they left out.”

“Very well. Let’s go see if we have bagged ourselves an evil sorcerer,” he said.

She laughed. He retrieved a velvet bag with a drawstring top. He’d had mother get him some twenty of these for just such events. Dragons were notoriously jealous of their hordes, but he realized they had enough here from Piasca’s horde to last several lifetimes. Unlike his father who was from the old school, he wasn’t as concerned with losing a few gems. He carefully counted out 25 gems of various types, choosing medium sized ones that could easily be worked into jewelry but were larger than what you normally saw in rings and carefully closed the bag. He tucked it under the edge of a scale on his chest.

Olima nodded and turned and he followed her out. “Let’s get this over with. They probably want to be back underground before daylight.”

Zaheng looked at the sky. “About two hours then. Let’s go.”

They launched into the sky and gave out roars to announce their approach, spraying fire into the air. They heard the shouts of those standing guard and Drow began falling out of tents and lining up outside their tents.

They landed some distance away and walked slowly with their peculiar swaying gate toward the tents. They stopped some twenty feet away and waited. A tall Drow stepped out in front and bowed. “Revered Ones, we bring good news.”

“I see this. What are you called?” Olima asked.

“Peter Xunson, Revered One. I am General to House Xun.”

“Is that body who I think it is?” Zaheng asked.

“Yes, we trapped him in his hide-a-way cave and dispatched him.”

“Very good,” Zaheng asked. “You are sure he’s the one?”

“Yes.” Peter turned and motioned for a mage to come forward. “This is our Head Mage, Thermill Dirth.” A Drow in long purple robes stepped forward and knelt down on the ground, opening a large hide and began to arrange artifacts in rows on it that had been bundled inside. There was a grimoire, several large black candles, a twisted rod of iron, an ash staff that was charred and broken, along with a necklace and a ring with an ornate capital ‘T’ on it.

“Quite the collection,” Olima commented.

“Do you know who he is?” Zaheng asked.

The mage stood and bowed. “Yes, revered one. I’m afraid so. He was an exile, cast out from the destroyed House of Teken.”

“Ah, the war of years ago.”

“Yes, Revered One. Most of the House was destroyed, but a few escaped and were declared exiles. He is one such. We are ashamed it was one of our own.” The mage was visibly shaking in fear.

Olima looked at him calmly. “Have no fear, Thermill Dirth. We do not hold his actions against all of the Drow. You have redeemed yourself and shown him no collusion by killing him.”

“Thank you! You are most merciful and gracious!” he nearly shouted.

Zaheng said, “Show me his face.”

Several Drow ran to the bier and climbed up near the cot, yanking off the hide and lifting the dead man by his shoulders. His silver hair tumbled over his shoulders. Pink scars ran down both sides of his face. Dried blood coated his neck and the chest of his black robes. The bier was set up away from the tents and off to one side. Zaheng said, “Cover him and back away.”

They did and scrambled down, causing several pieces of wood to fall and tumble down the sides. Once they were clear, Olima turned and tipped her head. She released a tremendous blast of fire that ignited the entire bier in a flash. Flames burst out sides and then rose high in the sky, lighting up the whole clearing. Several Drow yelped and backed up from the heat of the flames.

They watched it burn in silence for several moments. Then they turned back to the Drow. Zaheng reached under his scale and extracted the velvet pouch. “One called Peter.”

Peter stepped forward, “Yes, Revered One.”

“Take this pouch. The diamond is for you. As for the rest, each member of your team is to get one gem for their participation in eliminating this scourge. We are grateful for your help.”

Peter took the pouch, hiding his internal quivers of nervousness and bowed low again, backing up. “Thank you. You are most generous.”

Olima said, “Take this message back to your leaders. There may still be Dragonari top side that were trapped here when the breech was closed. They are to be destroyed on sight, is that understood?”

“Absolutely!” Peter said.

“You have done well. We have plans to move a race to the other side of the mountain. They are hunted by the Dragonari.”

“What race, Revered One?” Peter asked.

“A race called the Avariel.”

The mage gasped. “They are extinct!”

“Not so, but they are few.”

“What’s an Avariel?” Peter asked.

Thermill said, “Winged Elves. Their like has not been seen for five centuries.”

“Indeed. Like us, they are in danger of extinction and wish to integrate with the two-legged tribes across the mountain. When the time comes, they will need safe passage across Morin and through the Mountain Pass to the Midnight Forest.”

“What is it you wish from us?” Peter asked.

Olima replied, “When the time comes, can we count on the Drow to act as escorts from the edge of Marshland to the Mountain Pass? Can we count on you to protect the Avariel with your lives against all aggressors?”

“I’m sure you can. We would be honored to perform this task for you.”

“We will let you know when the time comes. It comes soon, but there is a little time. Inform your leaders that if you come to our call and perform this task, you will regain the favor of the Dragons and will be allowed on the surface once again whenever you choose.”

“We would be eternally grateful!” Peter said.

“Of course, there is one condition. You are not to make war on the other two-legged tribes. If harm comes to Elves, Humans, Amazons or Wood Elves when we release you from your banishment, our deal will be null and void. Is that understood?”

“Yes, we understand. I will make sure our leaders understand.”

“Very well, one called Peter. You have all done well this day. We are pleased.”

Chapter 22
Brevan Stronghold
Xxxxxxxxxx

Nixie followed Francel wherever he went if it was possible. She was fascinated with the beautiful man and took every opportunity to engage him in conversation about his people, his sister or his trip from Marshville.

He found her enchanting. She was a ranger and a mage, but called herself a Druid. While in Aelfdene he’d seen the sharaes, and been amazed watching them materialize out of the foliage. Nixie could conceal herself this way as well, but she claimed she was not a sharaes. They were experts at camouflage. She took great delight in hiding herself and startling him as she leaped out of the side of a building to startle him. It would throw her into fits of giggles and he would pretend outrage.

He finally got even by swooping down behind her unawares, snatching her up by the waist and rising high into the air and flying around over the village. She’d shrieked in surprise and fright but then relaxed once she realized he had her back firmly plastered to his chest with his arms around her waist and was not going to drop her. It became a game with them, constantly trying to surprise and outwit the other.

Ferasyl stood shaking her head as she watched him land and gently set the Wood Elf on her feet. Morghan chuckled. “I think Nixie has met her match,” he said.

Ferasyl snorted. “He should just tell her he wants her, rather than play these games.”

“Ah, they’re having fun, let them be. We all have our different ways.”

“I suppose so. He picks on me for not choosing a mate, but he hasn’t either.”

“But he’s had liaisons?”

“What a polite way to put it,” she said archly. “Indeed. He’s gone through half the single women in the White Clan.”

Morghan laughed. “Well, he better be careful. If Nixie catches him, I don’t think she would share.”

Ferasyl grinned. “He’s caught already. He just doesn’t know it yet,” she said slyly.

“And what about you?” Morghan asked quietly, his tone changing dramatically.

She peered up at him. “I’m well and truly caught.”

“We need to talk.”

She heaved a sigh. “I know. You have obligations elsewhere.”

“Do your people have rogues or the like?”

“No, not really. We live in isolation. There are some few that ventured out in the night to spy on our surrounds, but nothing like what you’ve described to me. But I’ve been thinking.”

“About what?”

“We will be new here. For all your generosity, we will need to be educated about the different peoples of this area. As well, not many of our people speak common. It would be good to have someone to represent us to the outside world, and speak for us if it came to that. We are not so eloquent as we will need to be, I fear.”

Morghan grinned. “Are you saying you want to hire me?”

She laughed. “That could be arranged, although gold and silver are not the medium of exchange we deal in. We will have to determine what skills we have that can be sold for such money. We will need it. I see that now. It is how you exchange services and measure value.”

“True, but I don’t think you’ll be desperate. The Barbarians won’t let that happen. They will make sure you have enough to eat.”

“That’s another problem. We eat meat, but we survive mostly on fish and terraced gardens on the steppes of the cliffs.”

“Let me talk to Brock. Outside that wall they built at the base of the mountain is a lot of undeveloped forest. Some of it will need to be cleared anyway for timbers inside the aeries. We could plow out fields and plant gardens for you there and fence it in. It would only take a couple of seasons for you to become self-sustaining with those gardens. Plus, you said most of you are expert shots with a bow. You could accompany hunters and learn the land. Your ability to fly gives you a great advantage over game.”

“You may be right, there is much to discuss and learn.”

“But first, I have to make a trip to the City and talk to Kashmir. I have to tell him I’m leaving. He’s not going to like it, but I get the feeling he knows it’s coming. He knew when he left here.”

Chapter 23
City of Shar
Xxxxxxxxxx

News traveled like wild fire through the City that the avatars had bestowed gems on those that killed the sorcerer and given the Drow to promise to escort the Avariel to the Mountain Pass at a time to be named soon. That this task would release them from their banishment on the surface and regain the favor of the Dragons was the news of the day. Everyone was talking about it.

A frenzy of activity ensued. Warriors trained and sparred night and day in preparation, wanting to be in peak condition and form to perform their task. Only a token force was to be left behind in each house to guard the leaders and the City. They planned to nearly empty the City of fighting men when the call came.

Issua and Naricon met frequently with their Generals, Peter and Belgar to plan chain of command and deployment and try to account for contingencies. Hunters were sent out to stock up on game and put away food that would travel with the army. Little was known about the Avariel but some elderly mages found old texts that told of the winged Elves and their gentle nature.

At one time, they might have sneered at that gentle nature, but it did explain why they needed protection. The Dragons wanted them alive and that was all they needed to know. No one dared sneer now. Whether they respected the Avariel or not, they were their ticket to freedom on the surface. Jorel had been executed for his attempt on Belgar’s life.

Peter gave had his six-carat diamond shaped and put into an ornate necklace of silver filigree and presented it to Issua as a gift of his devotion. In return she commissioned new, ornate fighting knives for him with new scabbards and a new butter-soft, black leather uniform that hugged his body like the skin on a grape. The collar was dyed bright red as were the bone buttons on the tunic, indicating his office as General of the Xun Army.

Ruatha was fast becoming Issua’s shadow, only absenting herself when Issua took Peter into her bedchamber. During those times, she practiced her skills to the point of obsession. As time passed, other members of the court and Issua’s advisors relaxed about her having such close access to the Ruler of House Xun. She still had her detractors but she was winning them over one by one with her obvious devotion unwavering attention. No one doubted her skill.

She longed for a mate of her own but put those desires aside for now. She couldn’t afford the distraction and she didn’t delude herself. Her fortunes could turn rapidly with one wrong move. Meanwhile, myr kyr were sent out regularly to scout Morin for the Dragonari. A few pitched battles had taken place, but they really had no idea how many were left.

Chapter 24
Brevan Stronghold
xxxxxxxxxx

“Aiee! Aiee!” The call from the gate guards interrupted Morghan and Ferasyl’s conversation about their future.

Some gathered in the square to wait and see what was going on. Others were headed for the gates. Brock and Kethia once again trekked out to the gates and watched as Katrina and Cooper Shol cantered across the meadow and dismounted before the gates. “Hail and welcome,” Brock greeted them.

“Hail,” Katrina responded. We were delivering vegetables to Narissa’s Lodge when a messenger from Elvin arrived.

“What news?” Kethtia asked.

“Olima and Zaheng appeared outside their gates. Gave them a bit of a start since neither Dragon Master was in residence.”

Brock chuckled. “I can imagine.”

Just then Duvan and Ellory appeared at the gates, overhearing the last part. “Do they need us to return?” Ellory asked.

Cooper shook his head. “No, they wanted to let us know the Drow came through. They killed the sorcerer. He was a House Teken exile. The Dragons have ordered the Drow to kill any Dragonari on sight, and, here’s the good part.”

“Better than the sorcerer being killed?” Duvan asked.

Katrina grinned. “They’ve charged the Drow to escort the Avariel from the edge of the swampland to the Mountain Pass – to protect them with their lives against all aggressors if they wish to regain the Dragon’s favor.”

“By the five Gods!” Kethtia exclaimed. “Is that a good idea?”

Cooper shrugged. “I wouldn’t underestimate the Drow’s wish for the Dragon’s favor. They’ve told them they will lift the banishment if they perform this duty, with the proviso of course that they not make war on any of the people of Morin.”

Brock frowned. “I hope they’re right about their devotion. I don’t share their confidence that the Drow will stick to the deal.”

“They seem quite sure. They’ve sweetened the pot, giving out gems to those that sealed the breech and killed the sorcerer. This has the whole place in an uproar. They haven’t seen that kind of favor in generations. According to Zaheng, they are eager to do this and end their banishment. Hunting has been a bane for them since the banishment.”

“There’s more,” Katrina said. “Orion, out in Marshland, delivered a message to the Avariel about Ferasyl and Francel and told them to wait for word and not send any more people until they heard it was safe. He told them that the four dragons there will escort them to the edge of Marshland to meet up with the Drow.”

Ferasyl and Francel were now there listening avidly. “They let him approach the aeries?” she asked.

Katrina nodded. “He swore and oath and tossed a tail scale at them. They let him land and deliver his message. He said he thinks your mother took his scale. She was clearly relieved to hear you were both alive.”

Brock was silent this whole time, but then said, “So what’s the plan? The aeries aren’t nearly ready yet.”

Katrina replied, “Well, that’s what we need to figure out. Although the mage is dead, Zaheng seems sure there were Dragonari trapped on the surface, so no one is sure how many are left. So the danger is still very real for the Avariel, hence the Drow escort that’s been set up. But they will await word from you that there are adequate accommodations for them before they move.”

Cooper said, “As we speak, groups in Morin are having skirmishes with the Dragonari, and hopefully most of them are wiped out. We’ve found no other breaches, but there’s simply no way to know how many were top-side already. They could be hiding anywhere. The scent of the Avariel will draw them out for sure if there are any left.”

Brock sighed. “Okay, well, once we determined placement for the aeries, loads of Dwarves showed up here to work in shifts. We have about hundred Dwarves working up there plus our own people, in shifts, but still, it will be another few weeks. The workers are camping at the base of the mountain, but we are full to the brim here. The bunk house is wall to wall cots, and many have taken Dwarves in as guests in their home. We simply can’t accommodate two hundred Avariel as well, not now.”

Katrina looked thoughtful. “We might be able to set up temporary shelter in the council chambers for that many, but it would be tight.”

Ferasyl said. “We have been talking and planning this for a long time. They will be traveling light, literally with the clothes on their backs and one knapsack each and weapons, that’s it. They will not arrive with a lot of provisions or personal items.”

Cooper said, “Well, food and clothes won’t be a problem. I think we should head back and talk to Giselle, see what we can do, then report back. If they want to come before the aeries are finished, maybe we can house them in Fair Haven.”

Kethtia said, “You know, the Meadow Abbey and the Womb offered sanctuary as well. I know you’re people don’t want to split up, but if they would agree, perhaps each place could shelter one Clan. That way it wouldn’t tax any one place’s resources to the breaking point.”

Brock looked at her and smiled. “Good idea. Why didn’t I think of that?”

Tristan, who had been quiet all this time said, “Knew there was a reason we kept her around.”
Brock backhanded him without looking with a lightening fast-strike, clipping the side of his head with a resounding smack. “Ouch!”

Everyone else laughed. Brock said, “Let me send runners to the Womb and the Abbey and then I’ll get word to you in Fair Haven. By then, you’ll have had a chance to speak with Giselle. We’ll leave it to you to send word to Elvin, unless you wish us to do it.”

Ellory said, “We can do it. We should probably go back anyway, or one of us and get the scoop from Olima and Zaheng. We can probably get more detail out of them anyway.”

“Okay, that’s settled,” Kethtia. “We have a plan. Let’s get it done. Once we have the okay from the Abbey and the Womb, we’ll send a runner to Fair Haven and send Ellory off.”

Cyrida said, “We should go with them, Duvan. In case there are more Dragonari, I can help banish them.”

Brock nodded. “Okay, let’s try to keep each other informed.”

Chapter 25
City of Shar
Xxxxxxxxxx

Issua missed her mensus and knew what it meant. She didn’t have to wait two months to be sure. She’d always been regular as a clock and knew she’d not taken the contraceptive before her wild night with Peter where he’d taken her over and over again. She contemplated the consequences of doing what the child suggested. The call to protect the Avariel would come soon. She knew Peter would be at the head of any vanguard and she wanted him to have a reason to take care and come home to her. It surprised her to have these tender wants. In the past, the loss of a lover would have been a mere inconvenience. Not so with Peter. She still wasn’t sure it wasn’t a weakness but there was nothing she could do about it now.

She dressed carefully and then called Ruatha and slipped out of the complex. They made their way swiftly to House Vic and she appealed to Naricon to help her with her plan. She had expected him to either sneer and call her weak, or smile in triumph having known the scandal over this would only help solidify his position as leader of the Drow, but he did neither. It as almost as if he had expected her.

Tartree, Jhultrin, Kacey, Belgar and Ruatha, along with Naricon were all assembled in his throne room. A runner was sent for Peter and the Priestess of House Xun.

Peter had been frantic when he couldn’t find Issua and growled at the guards, asking why no one had informed him the Mistress was leaving the complex. None of them had known or seen her leave. When the messenger arrived he merely said, “Your Mistress is at House Vic. She requests you arrive in full uniform.”

That had worried him even more. It meant she needed his authority as General of House Xun and wanted him to look the part. He’d ripped on the new black leather outfit she’d made for him, commanding her maid to help him with all the buttons as he was in a hurry. Normally, she wouldn’t have taken orders from him, but realized something might be wrong with the Mistress and her General was needed right away. She’d handed him his sword belt and buttoned his leather tunic while he’d strapped it on. Then he tore out of the complex, his heart pounding with fright. If Naricon had hurt her, or she was being held against her will, he would have the man’s head, leader or no. It would mean his life, but he simply didn’t care.

The gates were open and the guards only nodded at him as he ran past them up to the front doors and pounded on them. A small maid opened the door and he bellowed in her face. “Where is my Mistress? If that son of a whore hurt her, I’ll tear this house apart!”

The maid backed up in fear. “Mitchie Belgar!” she shouted.

The General rounded the corner. “Peace, Peter, she is in no danger.”

“What is the meaning of this? You spirit her out of her own House without my knowledge and then this cryptic message!” he yelled. He was confused by the man’s smile.

“She sent the message. Come. There is no danger.”

He swallowed and followed the General. The man turned his back on him which either meant he didn’t fear him or there truly was no danger, he wasn’t sure which. He marched after him with his hand on the hilt of his sword.

He stopped short when he entered Naricon’s throne room. Issua was standing with her sister and brother-in-law, who were both dressed in ceremonial black suede. The little girl was wearing a peculiar white linen tunic with a pink sash and a big pink bow in her hair, holding a bouquet of white lilies. But his breath caught when he really looked at Issua after his eyes had scanned the room for danger. His brain couldn’t accept what his eyes were telling him.

She was stunning, her hair caught up in a large thick pony tail on the back of her head. Her dress was stunning white silk and linen that hugged her generous breasts and split at the mid-drift to expose her flat, well-toned tummy. The skirt hung to the floor in back, a sheath of silk that swirled around her legs. She was in a wedding dress. Female Drow only wore such a raiment for a wedding. Was this to be the final crushing blow? Was she marrying Naricon to solidify her power and tie herself to the House with avatar favor?

He glanced at the throne. Naricon sat straight but relaxed and unconcerned. Two steps below his throne stood a Priestess of House Xun in a purple robe with white embroidery on it and ivory earrings. He swallowed hard.

His voice was rough with pain as he asked, “Am I to witness your marriage, Mistress?”

Issua realized in an instant that he had totally misinterpreted the situation. She’d heard him bellow outside the chambers. She smiled softly. “Peter, I wouldn’t do that to you,” she said softly.

“I don’t understand,” he said, sounding thoroughly bereft.

“Stand at my side, Peter. Do you not wish to be my bridegroom?”

“What?” he hissed, softly. “Mistress, the scandal!”

“Will be survived. Come, Peter.” She held up her hand.

He swallowed and stepped up to her, taking her hand. He wished he’d combed his hair. It was probably a mess from his dash through the streets. He hadn’t even bothered to put it in a thong. He ran his fingers through it hastily and took her hand. He couldn’t believe it. She was going to marry him. He’d dreamt of this, but held it only as a fantasy, fully aware that it had never been done and never would be.

His lovely Issua continued to surprise him, breaking all the rules. Somehow he sensed this one would be far reaching. His men would consider him a hero, but others would scorn her for marrying ‘beneath’ her station. He only hoped he could help her weather the storm. But there was no way he was able to think through all the possible consequences at this point. He was too enthralled with her in that dress, too thoroughly caught off guard. From the heart pounding fear of danger, to the heart pounding thrill of having his heart’s desire. “You do want to marry me, don’t you, Peter? I wouldn’t press you into a union you didn’t want.”

“Issua! It’s my heart’s desire!” he whispered fiercely.

She smiled and glanced at the child, Kacey, who was grinning like an imp. Naricon cleared his through. “Proceed.”

The Priestess raised her hands and began to intone the ceremony, asking each of them to swear before the heavens to honor and obey one another, protect each other till death do they part, forsaking all others till death part them, or dissolution of the union divide them. Peter found the entire thing dream-like. At the end, he kissed her with fierce fervor, using all his will to release her. He wanted to cart her into a bedroom that second.

Instead, he finally noticed that his daughter was standing witness off to the side watching as Tartree and Jhultrin signed the official wedding documents as witnesses under Naricon’s signature. The Priestess tucked them away to be filed with the City Hall of Records.

Ruatha approached and said, “Well, father, you’ve done well for yourself.”

He pursed his lips. “I had no idea before I entered this room.”

“I know you didn’t, but still.”

“I didn’t do it for station. I love her, Issua, I have since I was with her mother. If that makes me weak in your eyes, so be it.”

“I know. It is rare a Drow gets to marry for love. I envy you.”

He hugged her. “It’s my dearest wish for you, Ruatha, that you find love and know its joy and comfort.”

“I doubt that’s in the cards for me, Father.”

“I would have said the same thing of myself years ago. Don’t give up.”

Naricon was directing servants who were laying out a feast on the sideboards. They piled their plates high and sat down to eat with many of House Vic in attendance. There were even a few from House Xun that he hadn’t noticed before. Whispers were circulating the chamber. One of Issua’s advisors approached their table where they sat with Tartree, Jhultrin and Naricon and Ruatha. “You keep me on my toes, Mistress. When I was summoned here, I did not expect this,” she said with an ironic tone.

Issua smiled. “Jewel, brace yourself. This is the first of many changes.”

“Changes too quickly cause chaos,” she said mildly.

And so it begins, Peter thought. Issua merely smiled. “You said you were one of those I could count on. Is that still true?”

Jewel sighed. “Yes, Mistress. I just wish you would tell me these things before the fact.”

“Why? So you can argue with me for hours about it? I haven’t the time.”

“You know this will be the biggest scandal in decades.”

“I’m sure,” Issua said with calm. “But we will survive it. Glory goes to the bold. Is that not what we say?”

“I’m not sure that will be the case in this instance.”

“We’ll see.”

Xxxxxxxxxx

Later that evening, they finally made their way back home. Issua had explained that she knew she couldn’t plan this within the walls of House Xun without giving away her plan and being subjected to all sort of argument and she was determined to make it happen with a minimal of fuss. She apologized for frightening him.

“You almost gave me a heart attack,” he said ruefully. “What make you decide to do it? I have to know.”

She laughed. “Well, besides my love for you, I didn’t want our child to be bastard.”

He felt the starch go out of knees and he crumpled to sit on the edge of her bed. “Issua! You’re sure?”

She smiled and sauntered up to him, stepping between his legs. “I’m pregnant, Peter.”

“And the shocks keep coming. I thought you took contraceptive.”

“I did, but things got so busy, I forgot during that two weeks we were apart, and after that it was rather a moot point. I’m sure I conceived that night you put me through the paces after our little period of abstinence.”

He laid his head on her stomach. “A child, I never dreamed. I hoped, but never in my wildest imagining did I ever think you would take me to husband.”

She cradled his head as he kissed her stomach. “You must be gentler than usual with me once I begin to show, but that is not for a couple months. Until then, I say we enjoy each other as much as possible. What do you say?”

He grinned and stood. “I say that I can’t wait to make love to my WIFE,” he growled. They helped each other off with their clothes and climbed into bed. The servants heard them howling for hours.

Chapter 26
City of Maruk
Tahl Manor
Xxxxxxxxxx

Morghan arrived at Tahl Manor to find Kashmir gone. Lyzea met him at the door and showed him into the living room where he found Aslan reclining on one of the couches, a cup of coffee in his hand. “Aslan?”

“Have a seat Morghan,” he instructed. He waved at the coffee service on the table and Morghan prepared himself a cup and sat in one of the wing back chairs, making himself comfortable.

“What are you doing here?”

“Kashmir asked me to wait for you here. He knew you were coming.”

“I figured he’d anticipate my visit, but how could he know when?”

“He has spies everywhere along the roads on the mountain.”

Morghan chuckled, not surprised he hadn’t seen them, or known they were there. He hadn’t been looking for one thing, but he was not the only talented rogue in the guild by a long shot.
“Are you here to talk me out of leaving?”

“No. I was told to tell you he went to a meeting with the King and will return as quickly as possible. I was to keep you here until he arrives.”

“Why don’t I like the sound of that?”

Aslan chuckled. “I wouldn’t worry. You’re one of Kashmir’s favorites. I doubt he’s going to leave you hanging out to dry.”

“He may not have a choice. I have to leave Aslan. I know you probably don’t understand, but … I have to be with her, follow that road as far as it will take me. I don’t even think I ever had a choice in the matter. Not since he moment I saw her – they mythical creature tumbling out of the sky. I had to save her. Lyssa answered my prayers and guided my hands. I’m sure of it.”

Aslan smiled. “What? You think I’ve never been in love before? I know what it feels like. I married Theressa because of it. Admittedly, my situation was easier than yours. She lived right here in the City, but I haven’t forgotten what its like when you find the one.”

Morghan smiled. “What do you think he will do?”

“I have an idea, but I wouldn’t presume to guess. I’ll let him explain.”

Xxxxxxxxxx

Dinner came and went and Aslan and Morghan dined with Lyzea, Zana, Quid and Zilex before Kashmir finally made his appearance. He ushered them into his private study and they sat down. He smiled at Morghan. “I’ve spent the day with the King and Tiebolt Sklar, explaining the impending situation with the Avariel.”

“How’d they take it?” Aslan asked casually.

Kashmir shrugged and leaned back in his chair. “Fairly well. He was nervous about the Elves when they first came here, fearing having so many other than the Barbarians outside his rule, but he got used to it once he realized they were not going to be a threat and respected his rule within the City and Fongel Forest. I assured him that the Avariel were not going to be a threat either, even less than the Elves.”

“What happened?” Aslan asked.

“I explained that they did come with some complications that the Elves didn’t, such as a language barrier and suggested that our best bet would be to have a City representative within their ranks to report on their activities, in the unlikely event that they did something that would require our intervention.”

“Clever,” Aslan said, smirking.

Morghan sat up straight and started at Kashmir. “And who did you suggest for this little assignment?”

Kashmir grinned. “Why, you of course. My prized pupil. You were already familiar with them, had their favor as you had saved their first representative to arrive on the mountain. They trusted you – you were a shoe in. They would never know you were reporting their activities. We could merely sell you to them by saying you could interpret for them should they need communication with the City, educate them about all the products and services they could acquire here and probably increase trade and income for the City business owners, which would only increase his own popularity by bringing them this new business.”

Aslan and Morghan were now both chuckling. “You sly devil,” Aslan said. “You do have a way with our ailing King.”

Morghan frowned. “Ailing?”

“He’s old, Morghan. His health is failing. He has an awful cough. Lyzea had been to see him and instructed his physicians and healers on how to dose him everyday, but really, it’s a matter of keeping him comfortable as possible and as pain free as possible. He has already said he will be abdicating soon and handing the reins to his son, Prince Christian. Tiebolt delegates more and more to his trusted guards. I think Tiebolt was ready to retire ten years ago, but he won’t abandon the King.”

Aslan said, “It would be a blessing if he gave up now and let Tiebolt enjoy his old age.”

“I agree, and this business with the Avariel may be the tipping point. He doesn’t want to deal with this new business. It’s too much or him, although he’d never admit it. Christian was there through the whole negotiation. He sits in on most all the meetings now. It’s preparation for him to take over. I bet we see the changing of the guard before the end of the year.”

“Is that good or bad for us?” Morghan asked.

“Good, I think. Not that I ever had a problem with the King. I know how to manipulate his ego and let him think everything’s his idea, but he is stuck in some old fashioned ways of doing things. His son is no simpleton. He is bright and eager to learn. I think if Tiebolt chooses carefully who to leave as his guard and advisors, he’ll do fine. He doesn’t have quite the ego his father does, but he knows he’s a Prince.”

“So the down side is he’s young and inexperienced, and the up side is he isn’t as afraid of change as his the King,” Aslan summed up.

“Correct,” Kashmir said. “But those are issues for me to handle. Morghan, you have been officially dubbed the City of Maruk’s Ambassador to the Avariel people. In this capacity, you will report any requests to the King from the Avariel, you will give messages to them from the King, should there be any. In addition, you will educate them on the products and services available in this City once they have established themselves. You will warn the King of any danger they may represent.” He held up a hand when Morghan opened his mouth. “I know they don’t, I’m just spelling out the official duties.”

Morghan nodded for him to continue.

“You will prepare a report no less than three times a year and deliver it to the King outlining their progress, and a summary of their activities, regardless of whether any danger exists.”

“Does he spy on the Elves too?” Morghan asked in disgust.

Kashmir smiled. “Of course he does.”

Aslan laughed, and Morghan frowned.

Kashmir said, “We spy on everyone, Morghan, but there is nothing malicious involved. It’s merely a way of knowing what’s going on in the kingdom. How else do we ferret out threats? You know this. We and you also know that most threats are right here in the City. But we can’t play favorites.”

Aslan said, “It makes the King feel good to think he knows what’s going on up there on that mountain. He knows he has no real jurisdiction up there, but it keeps him quiet to think he knows what’s going on. And it does no harm. We don’t report day to day things or inner struggles and exploit them. Most of the reports read like this. ‘Five new births, population now X, preparing for harvest. Visitors from Morin from this date to that date.’ It’s all very benign and gets filed away in their archives.”

Morghan nodded. “Okay, I see what you mean.”

Kashmir said, “He’ll want details about those aeries, mostly just their locations. Tell him about building a road to it, walls around the base of the mountain, or any other agricultural activities. Report on any births and keep a record of the population. Trickle out your information about instructing them over several reports. For instance, educated people about glass products and pottery products this period. Next time you say you educated them about fletchers and bowyers here, next you informed them of the Crystal Mage Hospital and the apothecary. This way he thinks you’re earning your keep.”

Morghan grinned. “You don’t think I’ll be earning my keep?”

Kashmir laughed. “Hey, this way, you have an official position and I can legally pay you out of the guild. It also allows me to call on you for missions if I need you.”

Morghan frowned. “It’s a good compromise and I thank you for going to the King for me.”

Kashmir smiled. “I won’t call on you for missions, Morghan, but the King believes I have that power, and technically, I do, but I wouldn’t, unless it was a grave emergency and I had no one else that could do it. That’s highly unlikely.”

“You’ve saved me a lot of heart ache, Kashmir and I can’t tell you how much I appreciate it. I agonized over leaving the guild. It was my heart’s desire for so long to be a Master Rogue. But I didn’t see any other way.”

“I know, and I know all about heart’s desire. It trumps everything. I’m happy for you Morghan.”

“I still can’t quite believe she’s so enamored of me,” he said quietly.

Aslan laughed. “Morghan, you are a fine looking lad, not to mention a thoughtful and talented one. Any woman will be lucky to have you.”

“Thanks, Aslan, but you haven’t seen her. She’s like an angel.”

“Ah, the wings,” he teased.

“It’s more than that. She’s tiny like Lyzea, but … ethereal in some way. It’s like there’s this aura of peace and wonder around her all the time. She’s not childish, but child-like in her wonder of everything around her, and yet she’s a woman. It’s a deadly combination to me, such sexual allure and innocence in one vessel. It’s bloody hard to concentrate when she’s near me.”

Kashmir and Aslan both laughed. Kashmir said, “Well, just remember what I said about distraction. When you are with her outside the walls, keep enough distance to have a clear head. I’d be bloody put out with you if you got yourself killed.”

Aslan and Morghan laughed now. “Gee thanks,” Morghan said through his chuckles.

“Brat,” Kashmir said, but he was smiling.

They all stood and Morghan shook his hand, then pulled him into a back slapping hug. “Thank you, Kashmir. I owe you big for this one.”

“Yes, you do. And don’t forget it,” he teased.

Morghan grinned. “I’m going to ride into to town and pick up some things from my apartment that I want to bring back with me. Can I spend the night here?”

“Of course,” Kashmir said.

“Okay, I’ll be back and leave out in the morning. I think I’ll keep my apartment here in the City, for when I need to come in for reports. And at some point, I’m going to bring her here to see the City, but that’s after the word is out that they exist. It’s way too soon now. But I don’t want to give up the apartment.”

“I’ll make the payments on it,” Kashmir.

“You don’t have to do that.”

“I’ll pay it up for a year, and then you give me the rent when you visit for the months you’ve been gone, how about that?”

“Okay, that would be great. Better yet, just deduct it from my pay.”

“All right. Go get your stuff. Zana has rooms ready upstairs. Just pick one when you get back.”

“You won’t be here?” Morghan asked.

“I will be, but I’m going to be in bed. I’ve had a long day, Morghan.”

Morghan nodded bashfully. “Sorry, I forgot. Thanks again for all you did. I really appreciate it.”

“No problem. Get out of here whelp, I want nothing but a bath and a soft bed right now,” Kashmir said.

“See you in the morning, then,” Morghan replied and left.

Xxxxxxxxxx

After he left Aslan turned to Kashmir. “Are you really tired?”

“Hell, no, but it doesn’t hurt to make him think I worked hard on his behalf.”

Aslan snickered. “You are a devil.”

“He’s a good kid, and his father is one of the most steady and honest men I know. He’s like the son I never had, Aslan.”

“Was the King a hard sell?”

“No, not at all. He generally goes along with everything I suggest. He trusts me and honestly, I would never do anything to hurt the Crown. I think Tiebolt knew there was some skirting of facts involved but he would never say anything. It’s his grand nephew we’re talking about. He’s only more fiercely loyal to one thing more than to the King, and that’s his family.”

“Have you seen these Avariel yet?”

“Just the one, the one that has latched onto Morghan, and she is a tiny beauty. He didn’t exaggerate, Aslan. She’s beautiful enough to make a man stupid. It’s my only fear for him.”

“Sounds like you were enchanted.”

“I think everyone was. I have true love and age to temper my fascination, but many men don’t. That kind of beauty can be dangerous and distracting.”

“He’ll do fine, Kashmir. Stop worrying. He’s one of the finest rogues I’ve ever known. He might even be as good as you and I.”

“I know.” He paused. “But don’t tell him. I don’t want it going to his head.” They both chuckled then and went to find more coffee.

Chapter 27
Midnight Forest
Xxxxxxxxxx

The Meadow Abbey and the Womb of Methandru responded promptly that they would be happy to house Avariel until their aeries could be completed. Word went out and Ellory, Flynx, Duvan and Cyrida left for Morin to send news that the migration could begin. Everyone figured the faster they got them to this side of the mountain, the better.

The King had sent troops of Paragons to the pass, and the normal contingent was doubled at every way station. If Dragonari tried to pursue through the pass, they would be met with furious opposition. Tamatha returned to Narissa’s Lodge and took up her post with her father, Colby, educating the arriving paragons on the weaknesses of the Dragonari; that they were weak at the face and neck, and that Balthazar’s aura burned them, so call on it freely in battle. They tended to try to feint and strike at your side with tridents in hand to hand combat, so protect and watch your sides, spear strikes should aim for the neck or eyes.

Francel decided to go to Fair Haven and meet the people there. He reasoned that he could be there to greet the first wave of Avariel and allay their fears of their temporary accommodations. Giselle swung into action preparing the council chambers to receive the refugees, setting up cots, sideboards for buffet meals and little private privy huts with chamber pots outside the building to handle the inevitable influx of waste when you housed a large population.

Runners were sent to the Pass to await the arrival of the Avariel. At first sign, they would make haste and advise the village, the abbey and the Womb of the arrival so they would be prepared to greet and receive them. Similar preparations were taking place in the Womb and the Abbey.

Meanwhile, Nixie insisted on accompanying Francel to Fair Haven. She was known there and could ease his introductions. He was secretly pleased with her decision. Sogarth, Agnes, Lanna and Alec went with them as an escort.

Ferasyl decided she would go to the Womb of Methandru. She wanted to see it and she would be there to greet the Black Clan, the second largest clan. The White Clan was going to Fair Haven. The Grays were going to the Meadow Abbey, and the Reds and various mixed ones were coming to the Brevan as they were the smallest group. The escort parties had cleared out of the bunkhouse and it was transformed to receive the small group of Avariel. Marina and Torin were in charge of setting it up and would see to their immediate needs along with Kiera and Garth.

All was in readiness in a matter of days. Ferasyl fretted leaving Brevan without Morghan and she was in a quandary as to whether to wait for him. He’d left for the great stone aerie over a week ago and she missed him terribly. She heard the now familiar cry from the gates that alerted the Barbarian leaders that riders approached. She heard the guard, Tyson, she thought his name was say, “I think it’s Morghan.”

She launched herself into the air and flew over the gate, seeing him loping across the meadow. She cried out in joy and flew toward him, canting to the side when his horse shied. But then she landed in front of him on the saddle as he held the reins high and off to the side as she landed. He was laughing at her enthusiasm and slowed Gilly to a trot. She wrapped her arms and legs around his torso as she had that first day, and peppered his face with soft kisses.

“Did you miss me, sweetheart?” he said through his laughter. By that time they had reached the gate and others were standing there smiling indulgently.

She looked at him and blushed prettily realizing she’d made something of a spectacle of herself. “Oops,” she murmured.

He laughed and easily slid off the saddle with her attached to his chest and set her on her feet. He bent down and kissed her quickly and lightly on the mouth, then stood up straight and greeted Brock. “Hail. I return with good news.”

“What’s that?” Brock asked.

“I am to stay on with the guild.”

Ferasyl frowned, “But,” she began.

He petted her hair. “As the King’s Ambassador to the Avariel. I am to teach them of the law of the land and the services and products available in the City and keep a population count for the King. I am happy to report, I get to live here and am still gainfully employed.”

Ferasyl clapped her hands in delight. “Oh, that’s wonderful!”

Brock and Kethtia were grinning. “That’s good news indeed. We have some news of our own. Events are speeding apace. Come, we’ll tell you what’s afoot. If you plan to stay with Ferasyl, you’ll be making a trip to the Womb of Methandru in a day or two.”

Morghan nodded, easily sliding into business mode and followed Brock to his house, keeping one arm around Ferasyl’s waist.

(Insert Morghan/Ferasyl sex scene – later that night, etc.)

Xxxxxxxxxx
Marshland
Village of Marshville
Xxxxxxxxxx

Gabrielle exited the village gates and bowed before the gigantic dragon. “Zoganna, to what do we owe the pleasure?”

“I hear you have two transient rangers in your village.”

“We do. They arrived recently, saying they were fleeing some unsavory business from far to the North.”

“Do you trust them?”

“Not totally, but our Shaman reports that they are basically good men, who had to choose between betraying their beliefs or being executed for them. They chose to flee and fight another day, that being the better part of valor, so to speak.”

“I have a task for them, bring them.”

“At once, Revered One.”

Gabrielle scurried back into the village and made her way to the common building that was a sort of Tavern and restaurant for the village. The two rangers were a bit scruffy and unrefined, but they’d done no harm to anyone here. They spent way too much time in the Tavern as far as she was concerned, but they paid good gold for the privilege and had not bothered any of the women in the village, so she’d let it go on.”

She entered the building, peering through the smoke and trying to block out the smell of stale ale and peanut shells. They were seated at a table in the rear with their backs to the wall, watching the door as always. They both looked well into their cups but there was nothing for it. She approached them and said, “Sirs Jangol and McCloud. You have a visitor at the gate.”

They were both on their feet with crossbows in their hands so quickly, that she stumbled back away from them. A waitress steadied her arm. “Who is it?” asked the more surly of the two, the one they called McCloud.

Gabrielle swallowed noisily. Judging by how fast they reacted, they weren’t nearly as drunk as they let people belief. “A dragon, by the name of Zoganna. I caution you, Sirs. Show respect to her. To do otherwise can be quickly fatal.”

They lowered their crossbows. “A dragon?” Jangol asked. “What in the blazes does a dragon want with us?”

“I didn’t ask. She knew you were here and asked that you be brought before her. Please, I beg you. Show her respect. She is a fire dragon.”

The corner of McCloud’s mouth jerked up in an amused smirk. “Okay, let’s see what this overgrown torch has to say.”

“Naix,” Jangol said, warning him to caution.

“Sirs!” Gabrielle said again. “I cannot protect you from her. We live and thrive her by her leave and the leave of the others.”

“The others?” Jangol asked.

“There are four dragons in Marshland. Zoggar and his daughter Zoganna are fire dragons. Quetzacoatl and her son Orion are Ice dragons. We respect them and they leave us alone. Once in a while we are asked to do something for them, shelter someone, like the Drow defectors of a few years ago. In exchange, they never harm us and let us hunt their territory. I beg you, if you anger her, you could bring ruin on this village!”

Naix turned to Altimus, “All right, let’s see what she wants.”

Jangol said, almost jauntily, “I’ve never seen a dragon.”

Gabrielle whispered, “Brace yourself.”

They both chuckled and exited the building. Gabrielle followed at a discreet distance. They exited the gate and stopped short seeing the gigantic red dragon. She was in the neighborhood of 4000 pounds. She peered at the two rangers and snorted, shooting fire out of her nose over their heads.

“One called Naix McCloud and one called Altimus Jangol – I am Zoganna.”

“Howdy!” McCloud greeted her.

He grunted softly as Jangol’s elbow landed in his side. The dragon snorted again. “Insolent, I see. I have a job for you. I believe we can help each other.”

“How’s that?” McCloud asked.

“You are running from an unjust war and need a place to hide out. I have a job and such a place where you would never be found by those that seek you. There is a price on your head, is there not?”

“There is,” Jangol said. “But how’d you know?”

She ignored his question. “Although there is game here, the people live mostly on the fishes of the sea and the creatures of the marsh. Not the best place for a ranger.”

“It’s hidden and isolated. That’s all I care about,” Naix declared.

“Is it? There is a dying race of people that dwell in the cliffs off to the west. They are migrating to another land. An army of Drow is commissioned to escort them to the Mountain Pass in a land called Morin to the south of here.”

“And I care because?” Naix asked.

Jangol sighed. “Naix, really. I would appreciate it if you didn’t get me killed today.”

“Really?”

“Really, I make bad barbecue,” Jangol stated firmly. “Very bitter.”

Zoganna make a choking sound of laughter and more fire shot out of her nose. “These Drow are fierce warriors and protect Avariel from the Dragonari, demi-demons that have escaped the underworld.”

“Terriffic,” Naix said sarcastically.

“They are great warriors, but not so great hunters, and an army needs food. Where they march, the land is plentiful with game. I would like to have you accompany them and hunt for them. Others will be helping with this task, but I understand you are premier hunters.”

“How would you know that?” Naix asked.

They both felt a sudden wave of dizziness and stumbled, nearly falling to their knees. They were released from the mind probe and stood up straight again. “What the hell was that?” Naix shouted.

“I can see into your mind, ranger. I have need of your services.”

“And if I say no?” he choked out.

Jangol said, “Naix, do you have a death wish?”

“If you say no, I will not kill you, although I may make your life miserable just for sport. However, if you say yes, you will be rewarded.”

“How so?”

“You will be in a land where you can live freely, without worry of pursuit. I can even arrange to have those pursuing you think you dead.”

“That doesn’t sound bad, Naix,” Altimus said. “And you just want us to hunt?”

“Yes.”

“I can also make you rich, Naix McCloud and Altimus Jangol, but only if you please me. If you do this for me, I will assure you never have to want for money again.”

Naix peered up at the dragon. It was impossible to gauge its sincerity, but he hadn’t fled Kryta only to die as a human torch at the hands of a overgrown fireball. His family was all dead and he didn’t really have any reason to return and certainly had nothing to lose. “So, we hunt for this army, you pay us enough to make us rich and we get to stay in this other country without fear of pursuit. Is that about right?”

“That’s exactly right,” Zoganna said.

Jangol looked at Naix. “Let’s take the deal. There’s nothing for us here, Naix. How long are we going to be happy or content in this little back water village?”

“You’re probably right.” He looked at Zoganna again. “What’s the catch?”

“You have to deal with the Drow, and they can be most unpleasant. I won’t lie to you.”

“Unpleasant how?” Jangol asked.

“They are arrogant, think of us as avatars of their God, and they have little patience for others. They call all other races puta.”

“What’s that?” Jangol asked.

“Lesser, although it is changing somewhat. They will be arrogant and condescending most likely, but if I charge them not to harm you, they won’t. They know they need food for this trek. The one thing they do admit to is that their hunters are not the best. They live and die by the sword.”

“My kind of people,” Naix said.

Zoganna snorted fire again. “No, Naix McCloud, not your kind of people at all, but I will make it worth your while.”

“Why do you do this for us?” he asked. “You must be desperate.”

“Naix, if I thought I could do it, I’d find a muzzle for you,” Jangol stated.

Naix huffed. “Well?”

“You are convenient and suit my purposes, but I don’t do it for you, per se.”

“Then who for?”

“For the Avariel, and for Gabrielle.”

“What’s Gabrielle have to do with it?” Naix asked.

Zoganna chuffed black smoke out of her nostrils. “I would rid her of her obligation to you. I am fond of her and she finds you . . . unpleasant.”

Jangol began to laugh. “Now that I believe.”

“Shut it,” Naix groused.

“Do we have a deal, rangers on the run?” Zoganna asked.

“One last question. You would pay us gold?”

“If you wish, or in gems, whichever you prefer.”

“Gems?” Jangol asked, his eyes lighting up.

“I prefer gold,” Naix said.

Jangol said, “Gems are easier to carry.”

“Enough!” Zoganna roared, losing her patience. “You will each receive whatever payment you desire. The trek will take at least a month, maybe more. What is fair payment for hunting for a month.”

Never one to let an opportunity pass, he named an exorbitant price. “Five-thousand gold dabloons.” It was a fortune by anyone’s standard.

Jangol gasped at his audacity. Just when he thought Naix couldn’t surprise him anymore. To his surprise, the dragon merely nodded. “Very well, five thousand gold dabloons, or the equivalent in platinum or gems to each of you. Do we have a deal?”

“Yes!” Jangol shouted before Naix could respond, shooting him a dirty look.

“Very well, pack your things.” She pointed to the road behind her. “Follow this until it forks. Take the right fork and follow it to the base of the bluff. There you meet the Avariel and escort them to the edge of the marsh. We will accompany you. Once we meet with the Drow, we will turn them and you over to the Drow escort. Is that understood?”

“Yes,” Naix said, his mind already spending some of the gold. He was going to be a rich man in a month’s time, if the dragon didn’t renege on the deal, but he didn’t see they had a choice. For all his bravado, the dragon had shook his normally calm demeanor in the face of danger.

“You have one day to meet us at the base of the bluff,” Zoganna replied. “Till we meet again, rangers.” She paused. “Oh, and do not be insolent with my mother or Zoggar, they are not nearly so patient as I.”

“She was patient?” Jangol asked rhetorically.

With that, she turned and launched herself into the air. They watched her until she was out of sight. “I should have asked for more,” Naix said.

Jangol gaped at him. “Naix, you almost got us killed with your smart mouth several times.”

“I don’t think so, and she didn’t even blink at the price, Jangol.”

“Naix, this is no time to get greedy. Be glad we aren’t toast on a stick. Let’s do this and be rich men. Come on, let’s get our gear. I don’t want to keep that thing waiting.”

They went back inside and told Gabrielle they were leaving, but she’d heard the entire conversation from behind the wall. They never mentioned the fact that the dragon said she found them unpleasant and she was glad. She was just glad they were leaving.

Chapter 28
Morin
Northern edge of the Sacred Forest
Xxxxxxxxxx

The meeting with the dragons and the Avariel had been a shock. The crafty dragon had not mentioned that the Avariel had wings. Both rangers figured it was just a name for another race of humans. There was something pure and angelic about them besides their wings. It was their calm and passive behavior. Naix didn’t care for it, but he did admit, if only to himself, that he became unreasonably conscious of his scruffy appearance around them. He had an unreasonable desire to bathe and wash his clothes.

Upon meeting with the other three dragons, he began to comprehend the danger these creatures could pose. He wasn’t stupid, it was just that being brash and clever and showing no fear had stood him in good stead for years. He thought about making a run for it as soon as their backs were turned.

As if Zoganna had sensed his intent, he looked up and found her staring at him. She licked her maw and yawned, showing her rows of razor-like teeth. He had no doubt she’d read his mind. Stupid. He had to put a lid on that. She approached him slowly, everyone backing away to give her room. From under her scale, she removed a small leather pouch and tossed it on the ground at his feet. “What’s that?” he asked.

“Pick it up and see,” she said quietly.

He squatted down and retrieved the pouch, never taking his eyes off her. Jangol came to stand beside him. He pried open the drawstring and peered inside. His eyes widened at the sight of two large rubies and two large diamonds. Jangol gasped.

“Just a little down payment. It would be unwise to betray me, Naix McCloud. My word is better than the gold you seek, but my wrath is equally vile. I will not cheat you of your price.”

He nodded, swallowing harshly. “We will do as you ask.”

“See that you do,” she said quietly. Then she turned and waddled away. In minutes they were hiking over a ridge and down the slip face of a large hillock. From this altitude they could see the canopy of a forest shrouded in mist. Off to the southeast of that, were stretches of green and barely discernable dirt roads snaking through the greenery. Directly to the northeast, he could see what appeared to be jungle stretching as far as the eye could see.

Orion, the big blue dragon said, “That is the Amazon Rainforest of Morin.”

Jangol asked, “You have Amazons in Morin?”

“Oh yes, and Wood Elves in the Sacred Forest over there.” He pointed to the shrouded forest. “There is also a human settlement on the flatlands, and at the western side of the mountain base are the High Elves. Within the mountain dwell four clans of Dwarves.”

Jangol looked pensive. “These races are myth to us for the most part.”

Naix said, “I bet the Amazons are like the Norn, big bastards, I’ll bet.”

Orion snorted and ice sprayed in a light snow fall in front of him. “As you measure size, yes; I suppose so. The Barbarians on the other side of the mountain are as big as the Amazons though.”

The conversation ended when he said, “I must do an aerial survey.” He launched into the air and began flying in large elliptical circles overhead as they made their way down the side of the bluff. They camped at the base of the bluff for one night and only a couple of hours into their hike the next day they came upon the Drow encampment. It was huge, a city of tents and campfires. The ringing of hammers on anvils was heard in the distance. They stopped outside the encampment and the four dragons landed in a row in front of the Avariel.

Two large Drow men approached. One was about Naix’s height of six feet, but bulky and appeared older although he couldn’t say why as they all had white hair. But his face showed more scars and the vestiges of age, such as wrinkles at the corners of his eyes. The other was a monster, easily six and half feet tall and wearing a leather outfit that looked like a second skin.

Zoggar, the biggest of the dragons dipped his head. “Ah, Generals Belgar Vicson and Peter Xunson.”

They both bowed low. “Revered One, we came to your call and are ready to serve you,” the tall one said.

“Very good. How many men have you brought?”

“Two hundred soldiers, ten silent ones, and ten mages, Revered One, as well as some twenty hunters.”

“Excellent. There are two hundred Avariel behind me in need of your protection.”

“We will not fail you, Revered One,” Belgar said.

A roar split the air and two more dragons appeared. Only these appeared to have something on their backs. Everyone stared in disbelief as they circled the camp overhead and then came in for smooth landings next to the others. Two humans, a man and woman lithely dismounted from their backs and slid to their curved wing and then dropped the last six feet or so to the ground.

Jangol gasped. “Now there’s something you don’t see every day.”

Ellory and Duvan bowed. Duvan said, “Zoggar, it’s good to see you again. Quetzacoatl, Zoganna, Orion,” he said in turn as he faced each one and sketched a slight bow.

“You as well, Ranger. Hello, son,” Zoggar greeted them.

“Hello, Father,” Zaheng replied. “Our mother’s wished to help with the hunt.”

“They are welcome,” Zoggar said.

Zaheng turned and stood up on his back legs, making himself huge, towering forty feet into the air. “Hear me, warriors of the Drow! You have been charged with a task to escort the Avariel and protect them from all harm until they reach the Mountain Pass. I’ve no doubt your hearts are true, but know this. You will not be punished if harm comes from the Draganari by accident, but know this. If harm comes to them from any of you, the penalty is death, no exceptions, no second chances. May no warrior lay a hand an Avariel to do harm or suffer my wrath and the wrath of my beloved. Is that understood?”

All the Drow had fallen to their knees before him. “We understand,” Belgar said loudly. “I will enforce your command to the letter, Revered One.”

“As will I,” Peter said loudly.

Zaheng lowered himself onto his belly. “Very well. We will watch from the skies. We leave our Mothers with you to hunt and help provide food for your army.”

With that, all the dragons launched into the air at once. Gasps and murmurs were heard throughout the camp. It was a spectacular sight. Six dragons was an amazing sight to everyone, but to the Drow, it was unprecedented. They were kneeling in stunned shock for several long moments. Finally, the Generals climbed to their feet.

The tall one turned to Duvan and said, “We have a place staked out for your tents. Let’s get you all settled. It’s almost dusk. We will begin our journey in the morning. I’m am Peter, General of House Xun.” He indicated Belgar. “This is Belgar, General of House Vic, First House of the Drow.”

Duvan bowed and shook their hands. “I am Duvan, and this is my sister, Ellory.”

A bark and a growl had the Avariel backing up in surprise and looking around. Duvan turned and whistled. “Over here, Losse. Amne!” Heel.

Ellory shouted, “Osal, to me!”

The crowd parted as the white wolf and white polar came lumbering toward the beast masters. The Drow gasped and backed up. Ellory turned to face the Generals. “These are our familiars. They will not hurt you, but I caution you. Threaten us or them and they will attack. I hear Drow like white fur. It would be most unwise to challenge them, or me.”

Peter said, “We will not harm them. You truly have them under control?”

“We do,” Duvan said, scratching behind Losse’s ear as he sat at his left side.

“Ehhh, Awww,” Osal bleated.

Ellory reached into her pocket, extracted a huge chunk of dried venison jerky, took a small bite and then tossed it negligently over her shoulder. Osal sat back on his rump and caught it in mid air and began to devour it.” He munched contentedly, not paying any attention to all the Drow and Avariel staring at him in wonder.

Peter smiled. “So Tartree speaks true. The myth of the Beast Master is no myth.”

“No, there are many of us,” Duvan said. “Tomorrow we will be joined by my wife, a Master Necromancer, and Ellory’s husband, Flynx, who is also a Beast Master. We have vowed to hunt and provide food for your army.”

“As are those, apparently,” Peter said, pointing to Jangol and McCloud. They stepped forward.

Ellory nodded to them. “We’ll coordinate our efforts.”

“I’m Naix McCloud. This is Altimus Jangol. This is a lot of mouths to feed,” Naix said.

Duvan laughed. “We have help,” he said indicating their familiars. But I understand you brought hunters of your own,” he said to Peter.

“We did.” He turned and motioned them forward. Twenty men with bows and quivers approached warily.

One of them asked, “You are the ones Tartree calls the Dragon Masters, are you not?”

“We are,” Duvan said. “We also know this land well, Ellory especially. If you gentlemen agree, she will coordinate our efforts so we maximize our bounty.”

The man looked to Peter and Belgar and received nods from both of them. “Very well. We will meet in the morning and set out on our first hunt.”

“Let’s get these people settled. Hunters, show them the area for their tents.”

Chapter 29
Morin Flatlands
Xxxxxxxxxx

Peter sat up from his cot when he heard the knock on his tent flap. He stood, crouched over as the tent wouldn’t allow him his full height. “One moment,” he called. He yanked on a shirt but left it hanging open. He hooked a dagger sheath in the back of his pants and emerged. The small blonde Human Beast Master stood waiting patiently. He looked around.

She smiled. “Osal and Losse are hanging out beyond the tree line,” she answered his unspoken question.

He nodded. “What can I do for you?”

“I’m sorry to disturb you, General, but the Avariel wondered if it would bother you if they sang.”

“Sang?” he asked.

“Some are understandably nervous. Singing calms them down and gives them comfort, but they don’t wish to disturb your soldiers.”

“That’s fine. If there’s any attack, they would have to stop, but otherwise I don’t see a problem with it.”

“Not to worry. We have our familiars guarding the camp. Their ears are a hundred times better than ours. If the Draganari come, they will warn us.”

“They truly hear that well?”

“And smell a hundred times better as well. The Drow really don’t know of this?”

There was a time when he would have been insulted or dismissed her claim, or pretended he knew to save face, but things had changed. He had changed. The Drow were still reeling from the news that the Head of House Xun had married a General. His men admired him for it, seeing it as a coup for the underclass. Others were outraged and talking about what a blow it was to the aristocracy.

The small Human appeared so insignificant standing before him now, but he’d seen her control of the gigantic polar bear. She’d flew in here on the back of an avatar, a thing never before imagined. It had taken all his skill to hide his amazement. This tiny Human was one of the Dragon Masters that Tartree spoke of. She had hidden powers and anyone that could garner this kind of favor with a Dragon was worth listening to. Everything Tartree had told them was proving true, shocking as it was, these puta tribes were a mystery to be solved.

“We have much to learn,” he admitted. “That’s something you aren’t likely to hear a Drow say very often,” he added.

Ellory laughed gently but there no condescension in it. “We could say the same about you. Although I have learned some.”

“How?” he asked, genuinely curious.

“From one named Vincenza.”

“Ah, the infamous defector, Vincenza Ardul.”

“She is Vincenza Nodin now.”

He raised his eyebrows. “She wed a surface Elf?” he asked in surprise.

“No, a Barbarian, actually.”

He looked confused.

“They are from the other side of the mountain. They are much like the Amazons only … bulkier, I guess you could say, larger of frame.”

It was Peter’s turn to laugh. “She is full of surprises, isn’t she?”

“Naricon didn’t tell you? He saw her when he first came looking for his son. He met her husband. That’s how he first encountered Olima and how his son came to return.”

“Ah, well, I’m not of House Vic.” He glanced and saw Belgar approach but stay back a respectable distance, but he was listening.

“Right, I forgot. Of course, Falcon, that’s his name, disarmed him and tied him up. He probably didn’t mention that part. We tend to think of you as a whole. I sometimes forget you have such divisions in your ranks. That what one knows, another does not necessarily know.”

He frowned. “It has been our way, but is slowly changing.”

“I see that,” she said, indicating the huge camp with a wave of her hand. “You are at least two houses here, correct?”

“Yes.” He paused. “Tell me, Dragon Master, you see this division of Houses as a weakness?”

“Definitely. Look at what you’ve done here with only two houses. Look at how many men you’ve brought together. Is there a force that could defeat your combined numbers?”

“Unlikely,” he admitted.

“Exactly. Do you remember the attacks of House Ardul and Teken?”

“Yes. They plotted against House Xun,” he said with hatred.

“Indeed, but why do you think they lost all those battles?”

He frowned. “They were weak and their cause was not just.”

Ellory shook her head sadly. “No. They lost because the Barbarians, Humans and Elves fought together against them. They didn’t stand a chance. Their tactics and numbers were based on fighting one divided foe, never imagining we would join forces. Their numbers were decimated, and in retribution, you reduced them even more, is that not so? And now your race is in trouble, correct?”

“Our numbers are greatly reduced, yes.”

Ellory glanced at Belgar to indicate she knew he was listening, and then back to Peter. “We have a saying; United we stand, divided we fall.”

“But how do you cooperate with those so … different?” he asked.

Ellory smiled slyly. “You almost said lesser, didn’t you?”

Belgar chuckled, but held his silence.

She continued. “We all have our strengths and weaknesses. Combining our forces fills in the gaps, so to speak. Denying you have weaknesses does not make them any less a reality. But it leaves you vulnerable. Admitting your weaknesses and allowing someone to compensate for that gap, is what eliminates the weakness.”

“Give me an example,” he requested. He wanted to understand these tribes. It might help him in future campaigns.

“You are great warriors, no doubt, but you are not great hunters. By allowing us to help, you eliminate the weakness of sparse rations that would weaken your army on this march. Is that not so?”

Belgar grunted an acknowledgement.

“I see,” Peter replied. “There was a time I would not have admitted to a weakness, such as not having premier hunters.”

“But that wouldn’t make it less of a reality, would it?” Ellory asked.

“Why do you tell me this? You are strengthening your historical enemy by telling me how to correct my weakness.”

“Well, first, we don’t have to be enemies. I’m hoping this venture will make that plain. And secondly,” she said, pausing.

“Yes?”

“The enemy of my enemy is my friend,” she said firmly. With that, she turned on her heel and walked away, boldly turning her back on both Generals.

Belgar approached now and stood beside Peter. “And on that note,” he said with a hint of sarcasm.

Peter chuckled. “She is wise.”

“She turns her back on two Drow Generals as if she has no fear. Does she not know what that means to us or does she truly not fear us?”

“She is a Dragon Master. Who is going to attack her and risk disfavor of Olima? I do not think she fears us, nor do I think she means it as an insult.”

“We’ve been wrong about them, haven’t we?”

“I think so. The more I hear, the more I believe what Tartree and Jhultrin said about them. They are not puta, or not all of them anyway, but they are very different.”

“Do you fear different?”

“Sometimes, but I think because I was taught to equate different with bad, but that is changing.”

“When did it change?” Belgar asked.

Peter replied wryly, “When I was summoned unaware to my own nuptials.”

Belgar laughed then. “Perhaps different merely equals different.”

“Perhaps.” They were both silent for a few moments.

Then Belgar hissed, “Listen!”

Beautiful voices raised in song floated on the air. Rustling and clanging among the troops of the camp stopped. The Avariel were singing a lament for the home they’d left behind. Although they didn’t understand the words, the sadness and loss was evident. A hush fell as everyone stopped to listen. Voices in perfect pitch soared and overlapped, rising and dipping.

“Onda blu, dove vai
Non lo chiedero
Cio che tu perderai
Non lo cerchero

Cerchi di sfociare
Corri sempre giu
Quando trov il mare
Fiume non c'è piu

Wave of blue, long ago
Nothing but a stream
Rushing through mountain dew
To the sea's cold gleam
Nothing but a stream
Towards the ocean dream

Nata dal cielo
Day by day, deeper now
Al di là per quel
Songo sempre piu

Al di là delle colline
Scorri oltre il confine
Fiume non c'è piu

Rolling wave, calling now
Voices clear and pure
Find the way home somehow
Find the way for sure

Quando vuoi sboccare
Scorri sempre giu
Finché trov il mare
Finché non sei piu

Wave of green, wave of blue
Flowing home
Non sei piu”

Peter said in a hushed voice, “By the dragon, have you ever heard anything so, so …”

“Sad?” Belgar suggested.

“And beautiful.”

“No, I don’t think I have,” he said finally.

Chapter 30
Fair Haven
Xxxxxxxxxx

Tristan and Bamba offered their home to Nixie and Francel. It had two bedrooms, and Sogarth and Agnes stayed with them. Nixie said she would sleep on the couch. Alec and Valanna stayed with Derek and Kaliska Tahl, who now had a lovely home next door to the new Apothecary. An artfully decorated sign above the door to the shop read, “Depota Apothecary”.

Francel inspected the shelter in the council chambers set up for his people and was amazed at all the effort that had been put forth. All the cots had holes in the hides for their wings if they chose to sleep on their backs. Each cot was heaped with linen sheet and a warm fur. “Where did all the furs come from?” he asked Giselle.

She smiled. “Ah, well, Ellory, Flynx and Duvan helped us there. They had quite a collection stored up from years of hunting and donated them to us. They are yours to keep when this over.”

“We will find a way to repay them.”

Giselle replied, “I wouldn’t worry about it. They do not expect payment. They were glad to help. They obviously had more than they could possibly use, and said they’d stored them up for a rainy day, or in this case, for just such an emergency. They were glad to put them to use.”

“Amazing,” Francel had under his breath as he continued his tour.

Xxxxxxxxxx
Womb of Methandru
Xxxxxxxxxx

Meanwhile Ferasyl and Morghan, along with Tristan, Bamba and their daughter, Tristina, and Garth and Kiera traveled to the Womb of Methandru. They met with Kyruby and the mage council and set about preparing chambers for their guests. Ferasyl was overcome by the Womb and lay flat on her stomach in the crystal cave for hours, absorbing its vibrating tones and light. Morghan finally convinced her she had to eat and physically carried her out of the room.

Adonna, Wolfer, Eli, Amarisa and their son Broketh, made the trip to the Meadow Abbey to help them prepare for the arrival of their guests, helping them construct proper cots and set them up on the vast floor of the council chambers in the Abbey. Amarisa began going out daily to hunt in order to try and stock them up for the extra food they would need.

The Dwarves and Barbarians worked tirelessly in shifts, carving out aeries. Each one was to consist of a long hallway, having a kitchen/dining area and a living area off one side and two bedrooms off the other side, and then a storage room at the end of the hall. The basic tunnels and rooms were carved out. Support beams still needed to be cut and shaped from the trees nearby for support beams along the walls and ceilings. The walls needed to be sanded down and coated with a flour and paste material that acted as insulation, and smoke holes had to be cut where stone fireplaces and brick ovens would be constructed. There was still plenty of work to be done.

The Barbarians set to work felling trees, cutting off branches, and stripping them of bark, then cutting them into the lengths given to them by the dwarves for beams. Younger Barbarians were put to work making huge barrels of the flour and water paste. Once a wall was deemed smooth and sanded to the Dwarves satisfaction, the young Barbarians would move in and begin coating the walls with the plaster.

Masons would then move in and construct brick ovens in the kitchens and stone fireplaces in the living areas once the Dwarves had dug out chimney flews to the surface. When it was done, the face of the mountain would show rows of entrances and stone courtyard entrances in the shape of half moons. Stone railings were carved right out of the stone as they’d carved the patio landings. It was an amazing feet of engineering and all admired the Dwarves talent. They fell into a rhythm of assembly line workers and the work proceeded apace, aerie after aerie.

Correl Winger, the Master Carpenter had all his workers that were not otherwise engaged, begin constructing bed frames, dressers, tables, chairs, and couches to furnish the abodes. They had plenty in storage but not enough to furnish this many homes. No one saw it as a burden and many young Barbarians were glad to have something to do and felt useful contributing to the project. Others were busy making feather mattresses, pillows, linen sheets.

The Barbarians left behind that knew how to make pottery, were churning out plates, platters, pitchers and bowls, knowing the Avariel would have no such luxuries with them when they arrived. All rangers were sent out to hunt, knowing they might have to help supply game to Fair Haven, the Womb and the Abbey when the time came. No one was left idle.

Marina and Lynn worked steadily to make linen tunics and pants in various sizes, knowing they would be coming with nothing but the clothes on their backs. If they had one change of clothes it would be a lot. From Ferasyl and Francel they’d learned that they preferred the lighter linen clothing to the buckskins. They sent runners to the City to buy all the linen they could find and the Abbey sent a supply as well to help them out.

Chapter 31
Morin
Xxxxxxxxxxx

Ellory drew a map of the flatlands, the Amazon forest and the area near the edge of the Sacred Forest on hides she’d brought for the purpose. She sent the Drow hunters out in groups of four, indicating an area of Amazon forest for them to hunt, spreading them out. She and Flynx would hunt the outer area of the Sacred Forest as they were known to the Wood Elves. They knew the borders and didn’t want to alarm the Wood Elves by sending Drow so close to their home.

She didn’t say this to the Drow but they understood. Only one group of Drow was sent to hunt the forest between Sacred Forest and the base of the mountain where Elvin was located.
Duvan would accompany the outsiders, McCloud and Jangol to hunt the forest behind Dawnrest that spread from there to the edge of the Amazon rain forest. There was a moose migration path there, and her hope was that they could take down a moose or two. Each party was to be gone no more than two days before reporting back to the camp before setting out again. Even if they had nothing to show, they were to return by the end of the second day before setting out again. If they’d found nothing in an area in two days, she would assign them to a new area.

The Drow were slightly irritated at her authoritative manner but had been told to follow her instructions by their Generals and they all had seen her communion with the avatar and didn’t wish to anger her. When she’d handed a map to each group and given them her instructions, she stood in the center of the circle of hunters.

She turned to look at them all individually. “Any questions?”

“All right, you all know how you hunt best, but I recommend setting out your snares first in a pattern at the edge of your territory and then sweeping over it in a zigzag pattern to hunt for big game. Then you can sweep back and collect your snares, and be on your way back here for the end of the second day. If you lay your snares too deep into your area, you’ll waste time collecting them before heading back. But I’ll leave that up to each group individually.”

They all nodded. “One more thing.” She directed it at everyone, but the Drow knew it was meant mostly for them. “I don’t know how you all do things, but we do not kill deer with fawns, any female creature with young, we let go. Otherwise the forest doesn’t replenish itself. A doe without young is fair game, bucks and bull moose are fair game as well. Be careful if you take on wolves, they are usually in a pack. Taking one or two is okay, wiping out a pack is not. Is that understood?”

Some hesitated but then nodded their heads. “I don’t want to see anyone returning with six wolves. That’s how you wipe out an area of game that will not replenish itself. We hunt well here, but we hunt smart so we have something to hunt in the future. Any questions?”

One Drow raised his hand, “What if we are attacked, say, by a pack of wolves?”

She raised an eyebrow. “You know how to climb a tree, Drow?”

Some of the others snickered.

“You can take out one or two. They will only try to get you for a while. If you stay up high in a tree, they will give up. They hunt also and will only waste so much time on quarry they cannot reach. By the way, that’s a good tip if you run across Dragonari as well.”

“What do you mean?”

“The Dragonari have wings but cannot fly, and they cannot climb. They will try, but they can’t do it.”

The sun was breaking over the horizon. She looked up. “Let’s move out. Good hunting.”

With that, they gathered their gear and headed out. Peter and Belgar had watched and listened from outside the circle.

Duvan shouldered his back pack and two quivers and approached the two rangers that were standing together observing the proceedings. He whistled and Losse trotted alongside him and then sat at his hand signal once he stood in front of the other two. “Are you ready to move out?”

“We’re ready,” Jangol said. “Lead the way.”

Duvan nodded and strode out toward the northeast. They followed, for once having nothing to say. Neither man was inclined to trust these strangers, but they trusted these humans more than they trusted the Drow.

After they’d walked in silence a while, Jangol ventured, “So what do you think of the Drow?”

McCloud snorted. “Wouldn’t trust them as far as I can throw them. They give me the creeps.”

Duvan huffed, suppressing his mirth, but didn’t respond. “Something funny, ranger?” McCloud asked hostilely. “You got a problem with us?”

Duvan stopped and turned. “Look, I know you were asked to come here. Zaheng said you were on the run. Personally, I don’t give a damn what you’ve done in the past. We have a job to do and I’m going to do it to the best of my ability, which is damn good, by way, with or without your help. It would go a lot easier if we work together.” He paused. “Or do I have to come over there and help you knock that chip off your shoulder?”

Jangol snorted with amusement, but managed not to laugh out loud.

McCloud regarded him in silence for a moment. “Very well.” He looked at his map. “Looks like we have another mile or so before we reach our designated area.”

“Yes, we’ll set our snares there. I brought plenty.”

“We don’t have snares on us, but we can help you set yours,” Jangol said.

“Good, if I see good materials, we can make some more. Let’s keep moving.”

Over the next two days, they talked and developed a wary if workable respect for each other. They worked well together, spreading out and closing in on game. They downed a doe, a buck and a female moose, along with ten or so small game animals. They piled them on a hide and hauled them back to the edge of their territory on the second day and set about collecting the snares that had captured some rabbits, and several pheasants. They piled them on the hide and began their march back to the camp.

As they approached the south side of Dawnrest, someone dropped lithely and silently from a tree and landed in their path, a gray cloak swirling behind them. Jangol and McCloud both grabbed their crossbows and clicked bolts into place as she threw her hood back.

A female Drow stood before them. Her beautiful white hair streaked with blonde tumbled over her shoulders. She sported a bow and quiver on her back. They could see fighting knives at her waist and daggers in sheaths stuck into her boots. Duvan stepped in front of the other two and said, “It’s all right. She’s a friend.”

“Hail Duvan,” she said. “I see you’ve brought friends.”

“Hail, Vincenza. They were recruited to hunt for the escort party.”

“I see,” she said, eyeing each one up and down. “You did well,” she said, nodding her head toward the huge hide they had dropped upon seeing her.

“We did, we are on our way back.”

“Come to the village, we’ll lend you a wagon to speed you on your way. We have met up with a couple other groups. Wyeth said we were to aid you if we could.”

“Very good. We’d appreciate it. That hide gets heavy.”

She laughed good naturedly. “I’ll bet. I am Vincenza Ardul,” she announced.

McCloud and Jangol had lowered their weapons but still gripped them. “I’m McCloud, he’s Jangol.”

“Pleased to make your acquaintance. Follow me.”

Duvan nodded to them and they caught up the hide and dragged it after her. Before they reached the gates a wagon drawn by a huge mountain stallion appeared. At the buckboard sat a lean woman with dark hair. “Hail Duvan.”

“Hail, Lala. We appreciate your help.”

“No problem. Let’s get you loaded up.”

She climbed down and Losse trotted up to her and licked her hand. She laughed and scratched his head, making him grumble with joy and push into her leg.

“That’s enough, Losse,” Duvan commanded.

The wolf came back to his side. McCloud eyed the huge stallion and said, “Where’d you find that monster?”

Yvette laughed. “This is Thimisor. He’s my familiar. I pressed him into service. He’s not happy about it but he can haul almost twice the weight of a regular horse. He’s a mountain stallion. The Barbarians and Amazons breed them.”

Jangol approached carefully and patted the horse’s neck. “He’s a beauty. Who are the Barbarians? Orion mentioned them.”

Just then, Falcon rounded the corner of the village gate and said, “Hello. I’m Falcon Nodin, and a Barbarian.”

“Big bastards, like I said,” McCloud muttered.

Jangol elbowed him again.

“Stop that,” he grumbled.

“Stop running your mouth before your brain, then,” Jangol retorted.

Everyone was watching them with tolerant amusement. Falcon surprised them when he slipped his arm around Vincenza and leaned down to kiss her. “What’s going on, darling?” he asked.

“We need to get their game on the wagon. Yvette will then take them to the camp.”

“You aren’t coming along?” Duvan asked.

Vincenza laughed, shaking her head. “No, the Drow are on a mission for the dragons but I don’t think they are quite ready to be friendly with me yet.”

“Aren’t you a Drow?” Jangol asked.

“Yes. One that defected a long time ago,” she explained. “I’m not welcome among my former brethren just yet. It’s too long a tale to tell now.”

Falcon broke in and said, “Besides, I wouldn’t let her risk it now anyway.”

“Why?” Duvan asked. “Something else going on besides the obvious?”

Vincenza grinned. “I’m pregnant, four months and Sir Nodin here is being a wee bit overprotective.”

“Oh! Congratulations!” he exclaimed.

“Thank you. But let’s get you loaded and back on the road.”

They all worked to throw their game into the wagon and then trotted alongside her as she turned and headed up the road. The camp had moved about ten miles in the last two days. It was a slow trek moving so many.

They connected with the road that bordered the Sacred Forest and turned south. After only a mile or so, they heard a repeated robin’s call. Yvette pulled on the reins and stopped the wagon. She turned toward the trees and waited. In a few seconds Carling and Elsha appeared. Behind them were four Drow, pulling a hide with two deer. The other two had sacks with small game animals. “Hail, friend Yvette.”

“Hail, Carling, Elsha.”

One of the Drow said, “I wouldn’t believe it if I didn’t see it. They said you would be here.”

No one responded, but they all helped pile their bounty into the wagon and proceeded down the road to try to catch up with the migrating camp.

Xxxxxxxxxx

They reached the camp just as the sun was going down. Peter, with Ellory beside him came out to greet them. Peter tried to hide his surprise at the amount of game they’d procured. The other teams had come back as well, laden as heavily. Each time they seemed to have been found by these helpers with wagons who had helped retrieve and transport the game.

He hollered to his men that were in charge of smoking and cooking meals. They came running and exclaimed over the bounty in the wagon and began to unload it and haul it back to cook fires they’d set up in near the edge of the camp.

Peter said, “Impressive, I must admit.”

Ellory said, “No one will go hungry on this trip.”

“And so a weakness is eliminated by combining forces,” he said quietly to her.

“Just so,” she said, smiling back at him.

Chapter 32
Morin
Xxxxxxxxxx

Near twilight of the fourth day, the camp was settling in for the night when the alarm was raised. Osal lumbered into the camp, bleating out a distress call. Ellory shouted, “Alert the guards, something approaches!”

Moments later, the guards shouted they’d spotted the Dragonari. They were attacking from two sides. Peter and Belgar quickly mobilized their warriors, spreading them out around the camp.

The hunters herded the Avariel into the center of the camp and formed a circle around them in case the Dragonari broke through the Drow lines. The creatures screamed and wailed at a pitch that hurt the ears and had the Avariel covering their ears with their hands. Some were sobbing and being comforted by others.

Peter trotted back to them and said, “Are you okay here?”

Ellory nodded. “We’ll guard them with our lives. Just keep those lines unbroken out there. We’ll call for help.”

“Help?”

She and Duvan both closed their eyes and tipped their heads back, screaming for Zaheng and Olima in their minds. Peter just watched, his head swiveling between them and the troops. Ellory jerked her eyes open and said, “Go, they are on their way. Hold them off.”

Peter nodded and took off to join his troops, drawing his sword as he ran. The clanging of weapons, shouts of the dying Dragonari and the yelp of injured Drow rang in the air for a couple of minutes. Then roars were heard. Many of the Drow struggled not to lose concentration as they glanced at the skies.

All six Dragons were approaching. Zaheng and Olima came from the east. Zoggar and Quetzacoatl came from the south and Zoganna and Orion came from the north. Jangol saw two Avariel leave the group. He shouted, “Hey, back in the center!”

Then he realized they were chasing two children that had apparently broken from cover in panic. The female took a trident in to the gut as a Draganari leaped from behind a tent and she collapsed. The male was struck by a throwing star in the neck and fell near the other. Jangol fired a bolt at one creature, catching it in the neck. He quickly tossed a throwing knife at the other, spearing it in the eye. “NAIX!” he shouted.

Another Avariel screamed, stumbling out of the group, gripping the sides of her head, headed for the children. Jangol grabbed one kid under each arm and rang them back toward the others.

McCloud whirled and saw a shadow dart from behind a tent and leap toward the woman who had strayed from the circle. He threw himself sideways in front of her. His feet left the ground and he fired as he sailed through the air, nearly horizontal. His bolt went right through its neck and it dropped in its tracks. He hit the dirt, grunted and somersaulted, springing to his feet and whirling to crouch, looking for more, but there was just the one left that broken through the line of Drow. He turned to find the wide-eyed Avariel staring at him.

She had long black hair to her butt and big black wings, but her face was an exquisite oval. She seemed shell shocked. He walked up to her quickly, wrapping an arm around her waist and guided her back toward the others. “Back in the center,” he growled.

She nodded and ran toward the others. He saw one of the Avariel men grab her up and cradle her in his arms. He turned away to take up his position again. “Watch the shadows of the tents!” he hollered to the others.

Duvan nodded to him. “Nice shot.” Then he turned back to watch his own area.

The dragons descended on the attackers, which were higher in number than anyone anticipated. Orion and Quezacoatl sprayed ice on the ground in lines, making them stumble, trip and fall. The other would swoop over, laying down walls of fire that burnt them in their tracks.

They seemed mindless as they engaged the Drow in hand to hand combat, maddened by the scent of the Avariel, but then began breaking off and scattering. The Dragons pursued them without mercy, freezing and burning them as they ran. They fell like dominoes until there were none left.

The dragons then began swooping down, picking up two at a time, one in each clawed hand and dumping them in a huge pile outside the camp. Once that was done, the four fire dragons each took up compass points and breathed fire on the huge pile of some hundred Dragonari and set them on fire. They kept breathing on them until they were nothing but a huge pile of ash, a white bone sticking out here and there amongst the burnt remains.

Then they lined up, forming an impressive sight between the camp and the burnt enemies. The Drow pushed forward and fell to their knees. Peter and Belgar summoned their courage, nodded to one another and strode out in front. “Thank you, Revered Ones,” Peter shouted.

Zaheng spoke. “You are welcome. Were any of the Avariel lost?”

“Yes, two perished, unfortunately, chasing two children that ran in panic. We lost only four soldiers.”

“We are sorry for your loss. At a later time, we will bring something to compensate their families.”

“Thank you,” Belgar said.

“You did well today and held to our bargain. We are pleased. Your journey is almost over.”

“We didn’t think there were so many left. Do you know where they were hiding?” Peter asked.

Zoggar said, “We believe they were hiding in tunnels and caves in the Amazon forest. They were bred to be attracted to the scent of the Avariel. So many in one place, we believe, is what drew them out of hiding.”

“I see. Well, hopefully, there are few if any left,” Belgar said.

“Indeed,” Zaheng replied. “Settle down for the night. We will keep watch through the night. Rest your men, and begin anew in the morning.”

“We thank you.”

“Sleep easy. We will guard you till dawn.”

Olima nodded at Ellory. “Till we meet again, Mother.”

“Take care, Olima. Thank you for coming so quickly.” With that, they turned and shot up into the air.

“Whew,” Belgar said. “I never thought I’d see that. Six dragons.”

“It will make history,” Peter said. He turned to Ellory who was standing off the side behind him. “You truly called them,” he said, with wonder.

Ellory smiled. “I called Olima. Duvan called Zaheng. They brought the others, who must have stayed in Morin to see this through.”

He nodded. “Thank you. You have given us a rare privilege to see so many.”

She nodded. “Let’s get the Avariel back to their tents. They are badly shaken.”

He nodded and turned to follow her, shouting directions to his troops, to bury the dead and check their weapons before bedding down.

McCloud stalked up to Duvan and asked, “What exactly are those things?”

“Hell spawn, demi-demons.”

“Nasty creatures. And they smell.”

“So do you, but I haven’t made an issue of it,” Duvan said dryly.

McCloud was stunned silent, then threw back his head and laughed. “Point taken. I’d give up a meal to find a watering hole where I could bathe.”

“Wouldn’t we all. If not before, we can bathe after we reach the Pass. I’m not smelling like a rose myself. Two more days I think if we don’t have any more encounters.”

McCloud nodded. “How did they get here?”

“An evil sorcerer created a breach that allowed them up from the Underworld.”

“Where is he, pray tell?”

“Dead, the Drow exterminated him.”

“I still don’t like them, but they are good warriors. They fought fiercely.”

“Making war is what they do best.”

“That’s why they were chosen to escort these Avariel?” he asked.

“That -- and other reasons. It’s a long history. They believe the dragons are avatars of their God.”

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” he said.

Duvan smiled. “No, but don’t provoke them. It serves our purposes that they continue to believe that for now.”

McCloud nodded. “Okay, I hear you, but I want to hear this story. Jangol and I are seriously out of our element here, and I need more information.”

“Now is not the time. But once we deliver the Avariel into the Pass. If you wish to continue on with us, I’ll tell you a tale that will curl your hair.”

“I’ll look forward to it. I’m going to catch some shut eye.”

“See you tomorrow. We head out again. One last hunting trip.”

“See you then.”

Once camp was set up, the Avariel began to sing again for their fallen comrades.

“See her as she flies
Golden sails across the sky
Close enough to touch
But careful if you try
Though she looks as warm as gold
The moon's a harsh mistress
The moon can be so cold

Once the sun did shine
And lord it felt so fine
The moon a phantom rose
Through the mountains and the pine
And then the darkness fell
The moon's a harsh mistress
It's hard to love her well

I fell out of her eyes
I fell out of her heart
I fell down on my face, yes I did
And I tripped and I missed my star
And I fell and fell alone
The moon's a harsh mistress
The sky is made of stone

The moon's a harsh mistress
She's hard to call your own”

It was only later they realized the two killed were the parents of the two young ones who were now orphans.

Chapter 33
Morin
Xxxxxxxxxx

A guard shouted for Peter. He trotted to the edge of the camp to find ten Wood Elves standing there. “How can I help you?” he asked.

“We came to help you. You have injured?”

“Yes, we do, only a few seriously wounded, but quite a few with minor injuries.”

“May we see them? We are healers.”

He nodded. “Follow me, we have them all in one field tent.” They followed him to a large tent, many Drow stopping what they were doing to watch them pass. “Wait here,” he said and slipped inside.

“Attention!” he hollered. “Wood Elf healers have arrived and offered to treat your wounds. You will allow this and be on your best behavior. Is that understood?”

There were nods all around. Many had open gashes, crudely bandaged. Some were suffering from bruised or broken ribs.”

The Wood Elves entered slowly. One asked each what their injuries were and quickly started assigning the others to the most critically injured first. They watched in amazement as they hummed, laid their hands on wounds and closed broken flesh, made bruises disappear and passed out tea that relieved pain and had others falling into a deep slumber. They emerged an hour later and told Peter that most of them would be fully recovered by morning. He thanked them several times and asked if there was anything they could do for them in return.

The lead Elf, or the one who seemed to be in charge merely said, “No, just stay out of the Sacred Forest and protect the Avariel as you were charged to do. That is all we ask.”

It confused him that they wanted nothing in return, but he nodded and watched them melt into the night.

Xxxxxxxxxx
Forest Haven
Xxxxxxxxxx

They had eaten dinner and spent the evening telling stories with Derek, Kaliska and the Barbarians. Sogarth and Agnes had retired for the evening, as had Francel. Nixie sighed and rolled over on the couch. She couldn’t sleep. She got up and made her way to the bedroom door where Francel slept. It was not closed all the way and she pushed it open silently and crept into the room. She stood by the bed, gazing at Francel’s face, soft in sleep. He was the most beautiful man she’d ever seen. More than that he was a good man, concerned for his people and brave. He lay on his side, his wings folded closed, the edges lapping over his shoulders.

His eyes opened suddenly and he gasped. “Nixie?” he asked.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to wake you. I couldn’t sleep. I came to see if you were still awake. I was about to leave.”

He sat up and threw his legs over the side of the bed. He was shirtless, wearing only linen pants. “Stay,” he said simply, patting the bed beside his hip.

“I should go, this was a mistake,” she said.

“No.” He reached out and drew her close with his hands on her hips when she would have backed away. She waited to see what he would do. “I know little of the Wood Elves. Would I be breaking some unspeakable taboo if I were to ask you to spend the night with me?”

“In your bed?” she asked, wanting to be sure she hadn’t misunderstood.

“Yes.”

“No, it is always our choice who we take to our beds.”

He swallowed. “I can’t lie, Nixie. I have nothing to offer you, not even a home. My future has never been more uncertain.”

“But do you care for me?” she asked shyly.

“Yes, more than care, more than any woman I’ve ever known. And I want you badly. I won’t lie about that either.”

“For more than just one night?”

“Yes! For as long as you will have me around, but I wanted to have something to offer first, something besides my heart.”

Nixie smiled. “But your heart is all that I require. The rest is just details.”

“But I’m to stay here in this new land. I cannot abandon my people to go to Aelfdene, as enchanting as it may be.”

“Then I will stay here with you.”

“Truly?”

“Truly. I ask only one thing in return.”

“What? Anything!” he hissed quietly, but sincerely.

She smiled. “I must be your only one. I won’t share you with other women.”

He smiled. “I’ve gotten that out of my system. I want a true life partner now.”

“Then you shall have one, if you will have me.”

“I promise – no one else but you from this day forward. You promise me the same?”

“Of course. I’m in love with you.”

“Then come to me, for I feel the same.”

She did, knowing that her whole life had just changed, taking a wholly unexpected turn, but she wasn’t afraid, only filled with the joy of knowing she’d finally found someone to share her life with after all these years.

Xxxxxxxxxx
Morin
Xxxxxxxxxx

It took two more days to reach the guard post at the beginning of the mountain pass. A contingent of High Elves and Amazons awaited them. There were no more attacks from the Dragonari and all were hoping that they’d wiped out what was left on the surface in that one attack.

They camped before the mountain pass. The Drow were to leave in the morning, at which time the Elves would take over the escort. Near dusk, a shout was heard and all Zoganna appeared first. She landed on the edge of the camp and asked to see McCloud and Jangol. They trotted across the camp and stopped a few yards in front of her.

She tossed two bags on the ground at their feet. “There is your payment, rangers. Our deal is complete. Now you have a choice. You can stay here in Morin and try to find your place, or continue on to the other side of the mountain. I will keep my word and go north planting evidence of your demise if you wish.”

“I don’t think that’s necessary,” Jangol said.

McCloud said, “If someone seeking us reaches Marshville, perhaps you can give Gabrielle a story to satisfy them and send them away so they search no further. That should be adequate.”

“Very well. I will let her know to tell anyone seeking you that I killed you for hunting my territory without permission. Will that suffice?”

“Yes, that would be fine. Thank you. I’m sorry I was so belligerent before,” McCloud said. He’d looked in the pouch and saw the pile of gold coins.

Zaheng snorted, blowing fire. “It is your nature, Naix McCloud to plow through life. Perhaps you would like to slow down some.”

“Perhaps,” he said.

Duvan approached. “Hail, Zoganna. Will you be returning to Marshland soon?”

“Once we have word the Avariel are safely on the other side of the mountain,” she replied.

“Have a good journey if I don’t see you again.”

“I will, thank you. Good bye, rangers.” She turned and left.

Duvan turned to the Jangol and Naix and said. “You’re welcome to accompany us to the other side of the mountain. There’s a City where you may dwell. The Barbarians might take you in as well. It’s your choice. Rangers can make money hunting for the way stations on the mountain pass. Probably not as exciting as you’re used to, but I’m sure you could find a place there. I could help you find work.”

Just then an Avariel woman approached them tentatively. “Sir Evver?” she asked quietly.

“Yes. What can I do for you?”

“Will you introduce me to your friends?” she asked in broken common.

He smiled. “Certainly. Altimus Jangol, Naix McCloud, this is Rowena Black.”

They both nodded at her in turn. She stepped up to Naix and reached for his hands. He scrunched his brow. “Give her your hands, Naix,” Duvan prompted.

He lifted his hands and she took them in hers. “I owe you my life. You saved me during the attack. Thank you.” With that, she bent and kissed the back of each hand.

He felt tingles up his arms and struggled to show no reaction. “You’re welcome, Ma’am. Any time.”

She nodded and smiled brightly at him. “That is all I wanted to say. Thank you.” She turned and walked away. Naix cleared his throat uncomfortably.

Jangol was grinning like an idiot watching Naix watch her walk away. He waved his hand in front of Naix’s face. Naix slapped his hand. “You like all your front teeth, Jangol? Cause I’m this close to knocking them out,” he grumbled, holding his thumb and forefinger together.

Jangol just laughed. “Sooooo, guess we’re going to the other side of the mountain, huh?”

Naix grunted, turned and walked away. Jangol just snickered and waved to Duvan and followed him.

Chapter 34
Morin
xxxxxxxxxx

In the morning, the Drow broke camp and waited until all the Avariel were in the Pass before heading for home. Just before they left, the dragons appeared again. Olima and Zaheng told them that were once again allowed on the surface to hunt or mine, but they were not to make war on any of the people of the surface.

After they left, cheers were heard from all the soldiers. Belgar stood next to Peter. “I’m ready to go home, and we will bring good news.”

“Indeed. I want to go home to my wife.”

“Anxious to begin wedded bliss?”

He turned and said, “She is with child, Belgar.”

“My, my, there seems no end to your fortune.”

Peter just chuckled. “Let’s get out of here.”

Xxxxxxxxxx

The migration through the Pass went easily. When they reached the other side, three sets of Barbarians were waiting to escort the different clans to their various lodgings. One group set out with the White Clan for Fair Haven. The rest proceeded to Brevan.

There, some twenty five Red Clan and mixed Avariel were given lodging in the bunkhouse. The rest proceeded south down the main road. When they reached the road to the Womb, one group broke off with the Black Clan and proceeded east toward the Womb. The rest went south and cut west toward the Meadow Abbey with the Grays.

Marina and Torin decided to adopt the two orphaned Avariel children, Thistle and Jazair, eight and six years old respectively. After speaking with the Avariel, they gave permission, deciding none of them were in a position to care for them at this point, not even having homes at this point. Marina and Torin promised to bring them to visit frequently once they were established so they could learn the ways of the Avariel as well as the ways of the Barbarians.

Onyx had given birth to a litter of four pups. One bonded with Alec and he was thrilled. Oddly, another bonded with Naix. He was surprised but not unhappy about it. He listened carefully to Valanna’s training instructions and set about training the pup.

Xxxxxxxxxx

Nixie and Francel, along with Giselle and the rest of the Fair Haven council greeted the White Clan upon their arrival. A small blonde woman went airborne and nearly crashed into Francel as she came in for a landing. He hugged her and laughed, then turned to Nixie. “Nixie, this is my mother, Forella.”

“Oh! So pleased to meet you!” she exclaimed.

“You are from this village?” Forella asked.

Nixie shook her head. “No, good mother, I’m a Wood Elf. We sheltered your children in Aelfdene in the Sacred Forest during their trek.”

“Ah, I thank you then.”

“We were glad to do it. I followed your son here. I was part of his escort. But now I plan to stay.”

“Ah!” she glanced at Francel, now catching on that there was more here than acquaintance or friendship.

Francel smiled. “She has captured my heart, Mama.”

Forella grinned. “About time.” She turned to Nixie. “Then we will get to know each other well.”

“I hope so,” Nixie said, smiling.

“Where is your sister?” Forella asked.

“She is in a place called the Womb of Methandru where the mages of this kingdom train. She went there to greet the Black Clan.”

“And she is well?”

“Very. She too has found a beau, a human rogue named Morghan. But I will let her tell that story. Morghan saved her when she first arrived.”

“Saved her?”

“She was being chased by Dragonari and was injured. Morghan killed one of them and then managed to snatch her out of a fatal fall and escape on horseback.”

“Oh, Goddess!”

“Don’t worry. She’s fine. But let’s get everyone settled and we’ll talk later. There will be plenty of time.

Xxxxxxxxxx

It was another three weeks before the aeries were finished and ready to be occupied. During that time the Avariel were schooled in the common language, and told of the mountain and the City. The day finally arrived when it was time to see their new homes.

The White Clan came first, exclaiming over their new homes. The Barbarians had built huge stairs at the base of the mountain that led up to a wide communal terrace. From there, rope ladders led up to the stone terraces outside the home entrances. These rope ladders could be pulled up and retracted in case someone came to assault the aeries. There were six rows of ten dwellings each proceeding up the face of the mountain in a terraced fashion. Up the middle were central courtyards, from which more rope ladders would lead to the next level for those that could not fly.

Francel and Ferasyl supervised the assigning of homes. They were all amazed to find the aeries furnished with beds and other furniture as well as kitchen utensils and fully functional brick ovens and fireplaces, along with furs, bed linens and all manner of necessities.

Two days later, the Black Clan arrived from the Womb and the process began all over assigning homes. A day after that the Grays arrived, and finally, the Reds and mixed groups that were staying at Brevan.

Representatives of Fair Haven, the Womb and the Abbey along with the Barbarians met with the heads of each family and began planning of gardens. Stumps from the cut trees would need to be dug up, and fields plowed and planted. In the meantime, everyone was donating game, fruits, vegetables and nuts to sustain the people.

The Dwarves were thanked profusely for all their hard work and genius and the Avariel vowed to find a way to repay them for their work. They decided to call their new home Aerietown. Once everyone was in place, there were still nine unoccupied aeries, and room to build another row of ten above the highest terrace, should their population grow to that point.

Morghan moved in with Ferasyl on the topmost row. Francel and Nixie moved in next door. Some aeries housed four, others two or three. The workrooms or storage rooms at the back of the aeries could easily be used as a third bedroom if needed, if a couple had more children. In some cases, two couples lived together.

Over the next few months, groups of ten and twelve Avariel that wished to go were escorted by an equal number of Barbarians to the City. They toured the shops and restaurants, were shown the Crystal Mage Hospital and were shocked by many of things they encountered, but were eager to absorb it all.

As it turned out, many Avariel were artistic. Things they saw in the City gave them ideas. Before the year was out, they had the Barbarians construct a Pottery Barn for them at the base of the mountain. Others went into Fongel to collect clay from the edges of various rivers and lakes and returned with it. They began making their own pottery, decorating it with elaborate painting and bringing it to the City. Several shop owners took their fare eagerly and sold it on consignment, taking only a small percentage of the profit and giving the rest to the Avariel. The Barbarians that escorted them to the City discouraged anyone from thinking they could cheat them on the price their beautiful pottery brought in.

They also had a talent for making beautiful bows with ornate designs carved into the wood. Togarth Vassar hired several of them to make bows for his shop and sold them on consignment as well, with Duvan setting up the deal. Others were talented fletchers and made arrows for themselves and to sell.

Morghan offered his two bedroom apartment to Jangol and McCloud to use whenever they visited the City. They eagerly accepted and spent weeks learning the City. Duvan commissioned them to hunt regularly for the Meadow Abbey. Although the Barbarians would still help stock them up for the winter, they were still short rangers willing to hunt for their price the rest of the year. They agreed to hunt year round for the Abbey in order to have a regular paycheck. They put away their gold from Zoganna for a rainy day. The gold given to them by the dragon would sustain them for a long time if they didn’t spend extravagantly.

They dipped into it to buy new crossbows and new clothes and necessities for their new dwellings, but otherwise planned to live on the gold they earned from the Abbey. Duvan occasionally hired them to help with big commissions, or sometimes to service his regular clients when he simply wanted a vacation. Although they would visit the City, they asked Brock if they could remain in Brevan. He readily agreed.

As the weeks slipped by, more Avariel visited Fair Haven and the Womb. Quite a few struck up relationships with Elves and even a few Barbarians. However, Naix would disappear some days. Jangol followed him one day and watched when he saw him enter Aerietown and climb up the terraces and ladders until he came to the third row up and swung onto a home terrace. He grinned when he saw Rowena Black appear in the doorway. He slipped away and didn’t say a word for weeks.

One day Jangol saw him put a necklace in a pouch and stash it in his knapsack. He was dressed in new buckskins. His hair was combed and tied in a queue at the base of his neck. He was clean shaven. Jangol waited until he’d slung his knapsack onto his back to say, “So when are you moving in?”

McCloud spun and asked, “What?”

“When are you moving in with her?”

“Who?” he asked.

Jangol snorted. “I only look this way,” he said. “I know you’re courting that black-haired Avariel in Aerietown.”

For a moment he looked like he might deny it, but then he sighed. “And if I am?”

“I’m happy for you. Just wondering when I’m have the place to myself,” he stated. They’d been given one of the old guest houses.

Naix chuckled. “I don’t know. Her brother watches her like a hawk, but I think he’s beginning to trust me.”

“Are you in it for the long-haul? I don’t think you can just ‘love ‘em and leave ‘em,’ with these Avariel.”

“I know. Yeah, I’m in it for the long-haul, if she’ll have me. Lord knows I don’t deserve her, but … this is way too much work for a one-off.”

Jangol laughed. “Well, good luck with that.”

Naix nodded and grinned. “Thanks. I’m gonna need it.” He paused. “And her name is Rowena. Stop calling her, ‘the Avariel’.”

“Righto!” Jangol said, saluting him and then he just shook his head watching his back retreat through the door.

Xxxxxxxxxx
City of Shar
One Year Later
Xxxxxxxxxx

Pellan Xun was four months old. Issua gazed at Peter, holding the baby. He’d been overjoyed to have a son. Ruatha doted on him as well. “Our guests are here,” Issua said softly.

He looked up and smiled. He stood and put the baby in the cradle. A nanny, the same one that had tended Illia entered and nodded. Peter took Issua’s hand and they went out to the audience chamber. Naricon was already there with Belgar, and several of his advisors. Jewel and Ruatha were there as well.

Naricon informed them, “Tartree and Jhultrin are escorting them here. They should arrive any minute,” he informed them. Issua and Peter sat on their thrones. They ruled House Xun together now and Issua had the throne made for his large frame. The main door opened and Tartree, Jhultrin and Kacey entered, followed by Vincenza and her husband, Falcon. She had her child in a papoose strapped to her front. Behind them were several Humans. They stopped in front of the dais.

Tartree introduced them. “You know Vincenza. This is her husband, Falcon Nodin. This man in Wyeth Eloon and his wife Emma Sanchez. They lead their village. His daughter Yvette and her husband, Edward,” he said, indicating them with his hand as they sketched short bows. This lady is Morgainne Essence, one of their village council.”

He waved at his father. “You know my father, Naricon and his General, Belgar. This is Issua and Peter Xun, Rulers of House Xun, the second House.

Issua smiled at Vincenza. “Bet you never expected to return.”

“No, I didn’t.”

“How old is your child, Vincenza?”

“Eight months. Her name is Shannon.”

“Congratulations. Our son, Pellan is three months old.”

“Congratulations to you as well.”

Peter said, “I hope we can come to an agreeable trade arrangement.”

Wyeth said, “I hope so. I’ve been given authority by the Amazon council to bargain on their behalf.”

Peter nodded. “Very well. Let’s get started.”

Xxxxxxxxxx
Aerietown
One Year Later
Xxxxxxxxxx

Morghan and Ferasyl had been married, as had Nixie and Francel. Naix had actually been ‘tied down’, as Jangol put it, with Rowena and they now lived together. They were expecting to marry shortly. Her brother had moved to another aerie with a lovely Elven woman from Fair Haven.

Morghan was returning from his latest trip to the City to report to King Christian. It was twilight when he climbed the ladder to their terrace and heard her singing a lullaby. He didn’t think he’d ever get used to the joy that filled him hearing Ferasyl sing.

He crept into the aerie on silent feet and stood in the doorway to the nursery bedroom, watching her. She was sitting in a rocking chair, her wings through the slats at the back. Her hand was draped over the edge of the cradle that held Ariella, their first child. She was a tiny thing, only three months old, with black ringlets for hair that hung to her pudgy shoulders. Tiny white wings stuck up on her back as she lay on her stomach in the cradle, her face to one side.

“Goodnight my angel.
Time to close your eyes.
And save these questions for another day.
I think I know what you've been asking me.
I think you know what I've been trying to say.
I promise I would never leave you.
And you should always know, I never will be far away.
Goodnight my angel, now it's time to sleep.
And still so many things I want to say.
Remember all the songs you sang for me.
When we went sailing on a emerald bay.
And like a boat out on the ocean.
I'm rocking you to sleep.
The water is dark and deep inside this mother's heart.
You'll always be a part of me.
Goodnight my angel, now it's time to dream.
And dream how wonderful your life will be.
Some day a child may cry and if you sing this lullaby.
Then in your heart there will always be a part of me.”

Ferasyl looked up and smiled at him. He walked in and leaned over the cradle, kissing the baby’s forehead. Ferasyl got up quietly and retreated from the room, Morghan following her. She closed the door quietly and they went to the living room. “I missed you,” she said softly.

“I never get tired of hearing you sing,” he said softly.

She smiled and kissed him softly. “She is such a wonder to me. She is the first in the White Clan not to be blonde. Such a contrast, but lovely.”

He grinned. “She’s ours, and that’s all that matters.”

“I agree. She is the seventh babe born this year.”

Morghan chuckled. “Your people didn’t waste any time.”

“You are of my people now,” she said.

“I know, and I couldn’t be happier. I love you more each day.”

“Would you want another?”

Morghan startled. “So soon?”

“No, not yet, but when she is a year or so.”

“Of course, we’ll have as many as you want.”

“Two would be good, we’ll see. I would like to have a boy as well.”

“We’ll roll the dice. Just let me know when you wish to try again.”

“I will look forward to it.”

“In the meantime, let’s practice. Show me how much you missed me,” he suggested.

“Okay,” she said, smiling and followed him into the bedroom.

THE END
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

***NOTE: All songs in this tale are by the Celtic Women. The first is Non C'è Più, written and sung in Gaelic. I chose Gaelic as the language of the Avariel, that I named Cliffsong in this tale. The second song is “The Moon’s a Harsh Mistress”, and the third is a lullaby, “Good Night My Angel”. No copyright infringement intended. These songs belong to Celtic Women. If you’ve never heard them, you’re missing out. They will make you believe in angels.

I've made this mistake twice now of saying this series was ended -- so I'm not going to say it this time! Who knows? If the characters won't leave me alone, it may continue on. If you haven't read the previous stories in the series, you might find this one a bit confusing as I cavalierly refer to established characters from previous stories.

If you haven't read the previous stories, I would love it if you did. The series is in this order:

FAIRY BOND
DRAGON MASTERS
DROW MASTERS
MOUNTAIN MASTERS
BANDIT MASTERS
DRAGONARI MASTERS.

All of us writers -- we like to see comments on our stories. It's the only way we know people are actually reading them. (Psst - # of views don't count). So leave a message if you've read - to me and others. I highly recommend you check out Naix and Jangol's contributions, along with Lala's Warlords story and encourage them to continue. Good stuff. Hope you enjoyed reading. :O)

I love it...You are both a good observer and good reader donni. How you got my mannerisms for McCloud down is uncanny. Your a very good Fantasy writer donni. I have enjoyed this and your other stories. Keep up the good work

Glad you enjoyed it - I hoped I'd gotten it right! Thanks for taking the time to leave a note, I appreciate it.

Just finished this one Donni! It was excellent! Loved it. Very good stuff.

I do hope you write more....and soon.

ok... I'm a slow reader...and only on chapter 8... but can I say..."WOW!!!" I love it!!! Your really good and I didn't even know you write!!! You have a fan!! Please continue and I will check out the other stuff...it'll just take me a while...lol... Vicki/Aura

Alt and Aura - so glad you are enjoying and/or enjoyed it! This is the last in a series, so if you didn't read the stories that came before, this one might stump you a bit. I cavalierly refer to characters from previous stories assuming you know them from the other stories. Many of the characters in this were established in earlier stories. If you haven't read the series, they go in this order:

FAIRY BOND
DRAGON MASTERS
DROW MASTERS
MOUNTAIN MASTERS
BANDIT MASTERS
DRAGONARI MASTERS.

Thanks to both of you for taking the time to leave a note. We writer's really appreciate it - let's us know someone is actually reading! Again, glad you enjoyed it.