Running down the stairs two at a time, Sting found the front door knocked in and bodies in the entryway. Usher seemed to have fought much harder then they thought. The three ran to the door and looked out. The house was ablaze in moonlight. Angela had said that all they had to do was to get in the light and they would be safe. None of them understood what she meant, but they leaped out into the light anyway. Off in the shadows they saw the warriors running towards them. As they hit the moonlight they were all knocked back. It looked like they had just hit a wall. As they entered the light, magic flowed all around them as it lifted them and took them away to safety.
Standing out on the balcony over looking the lake, Balthazar watch as his warriors departed for Tir Na. Yadessa was now in ruins so he needed a new place to make his base. Once he remove the werewolves, Tir Na would be perfect. He sent almost every warrior he made into Tir Na. A small army. They had done so well in retrieving Angela this morning. She was now waiting in the dungeon for him to do as wished with her. And after all that had happened, her death was what he wished. Balthazar turned and walked back into the castle. Different painful was to kill her was all he could think of at the moment. Typical vampire deaths were not good enough. It had to be a sacrificial death. Dismemberment on Muerte's altar he knew would please his goddess. But that wouldn't be enough. Athene had to die too. He knew he had to fulfill his original promise to Muerte and sacrifice her. But how would he get her here? Would she be stupid enough to try and save her mother? She tried once. He had no doubt Tanis and that lummox first experimental warrior would try. An evil grin spread across his face as he walked down the stairs towards the dungeon. It was time to see his dear wife. He knew he would enjoy this.
Arriving in a flash of moonlight, Athene, Tanis and Sting looked around to see where they where. Off in the distance Athene saw the dragons Manor. She knew where they were.
[ What is this place?] Sting asked.
" This is New Keanna." Tanis told him. " The dragons home."
" Come on." Athene pulled them toward the Manor. " We have to get mother help."
Sting changed his form back to Adam and ran after Athene and Tanis.
[ Jandar!] Athene sent out as she ran. [ Theres trouble in Prafa. We need your help!]
[ Where are you Athene?] He sent Back. [What happened?]
[ We're in the foyer heading up to your study.]
Jandar and Rage's study was on the second floor of the manor. It didn't take them long to reach it. Knocking at the door Jandar opened it and ushered them in. Sitting around the table they found Jandar and Rage dressed in the traveling clothes. Jax was there with Eheren.
Jandar looked at them standing in the doorway dressed in their sleeping clothes. Athene in a nightgown, Tanis in short pants and a grey blood stained shirt and Adam in just a loin cloth.
" My god!" He said. " What happened?"
" Prafa is no more." Tanis said hugging himself and shivering.
" Balthazar?" Rage asked.
" Yes." Adam said his face red in embarrassment. " They came just before dawn."
" Your freezing." Jandar waved his hand and clothing appeared on the table for each on them. Rage handed each of them something to put on.
" Tell us what happened." Jax said sitting up listening.
" We're not quite sure what really happened." Tanis pulled on a pair of leathers as he talked. " All I know is mother woke me and said we were under attack. I went to wake Adam and ran into nightwalkers on the way. How they got in we later learned was through the front. We found three dead ones Usher killed downstairs. I had no idea Usher was such a fierce warrior. He killed six before before then got him. He was truly amazing."
" He'll be honored in the underworld." Jax told him. " Go on."
" After we found Usher." Athene continued. " Mother insisted we leave. She refused any help from us. She told Adam to get us out into the moonlight. Why? Whats moonlight got to do with anything?"
Jandar, Rage and Jax looked at each other as if they shared a secret some of the others knew nothing about.
" Why didn't she come with you?" Jandar asked sitting down next to Rage.
" She had to get to get Uncle out." Athene said. " He was still upstairs. He's here right?"
" No he's not." Jandar gave it some thought. " Arturus has never been here. Neither has your mother. She would send him somewhere he feels comfortable. Like to my father. There close friends."
" We have to save her." Athene pleaded with them." Father will kill her. I know it."
Suddenly a bright flash of illuminating light filled the room and surprised them all. When it faded Alea was standing there among them. Jax climbed to his feet and held out his hand to her.
" Gentlemen. This is Alea, goddess of the moon."
Everyone stood and bowed to her showing their respect. Jandar and Rage stepped forward hands held out.
" We're all glad your free Lady."
" Thank you all." She said. She looked at Athene and Tanis, then back at Jandar and Rage. "But we have more important problems to handle."
" We know sister." Jax said. " What do you want to do?"
" Take my grandchildren and free my daughter." She walked over to Athene and Tanis and smiled at them.
" Us?" Tanis looked shocked. " Your grandchildren? Whats she talking about?"
" This is your grandmother." Jax came and stood with them. " There's a lot you should know. You mother just learned of this too. By its true."
" Its why he took your mother." Alea looked from one to the other. She could tell they still didn't believe her. " Listen to me. For years I've been watching you both. Helping out as much as I could from my ride across the sky. Athene, your dreams. Where did you think they were coming from? And Tanis. At night whenever you fought. Didn't you feel so much stronger at night then during the day? Did you think that was because you were a vampire? Your only half vampire. Neither of you every really needed blood to live. Your the grandchild of the goddess of the night and the moon. That's where your power really comes from. Adam, When Balthazar changed you, he tried to wipe your mind clean so only he could command you. Take away your will. Why do you think it didn't work? Why do you think you still had a connection to Angela? I interfered with his spells and kept your mind from being totally overwhelmed. Now its up to the three of you to trust me. Can you?"
Athene Tanis and Adam looked around the room for help. They weren't sure what they should do.
" Give her your hand." Jax told Athene.
" Why?"
" You'll see." He said. " Please."
Athene reached out and placed her hand in Alea's. As they touched she felt something familiar come over her. Visions began to run through her mind. She saw Alea curse Muerte and the birth of her daughter. She saw Alea and Nestor give the baby to someone to hide her. Then she saw her own birth and Alea looking down on her and uncle as he took her into hiding. It was all true she knew at that moment. This is her grandmother. Athene released her hand and through her arms around Alea.
" Its true!" She cried. " You are my grandmother. Tanis its all true."
Tanis walked and hugged them both rubbing Athenes back.
" This is all great and fine." Adam broke in. " But Lady Angela is still in Balthazar's dungeon waiting to be executed. How are we going to get her out?"
" Simple." Came a voice from no where. In a swirl of magic, Aramis appeared. " We give him what he really want."
" Aramis!!" Jax hugged his older brother and squeezed him tight."Where have you been?"
" I had a few errands to take care of." He smiled as Jax released him. " So things aren't going so well I see."
" Muerte is out there somewhere." Rage said. " And Shayn and Ono are missing."
" The prophesy." Aramis looked at Alea. She nodded her head. " I know about Muerte. I was with Nestor when she yield power to him in the underworld.
" He's safe?" Alea asked.
" He's in power and repairing the damage she did down there." Aramis went and sat with Jandar and Rage. " I'm sorry. Shayn and Ono, that's my fault. I should have woke you myself."
" Nonsense." Rage said. " They probably would have went anyway. Jax has an idea how to find. We're trusting him to find them."
" We'll talk about that later." Jax said. " What did you mean by giving him what he wants?"
" Whats he really want?" Aramis asked.
" Power." Tanis said.
" And who's he getting power from?"
Everyone looked at each other a little puzzled by the question he asked.
" From her." Alea said. " I think I know what you mean."
" What?" Jandar asked.
" She wants me." Alea told them. " She wants to be free of her curse and to kill me. Only I can free her. So I'll give myself to him for Angela."
" This will work." Eheren smiled. " He's so power mad he thinks she won't kill him if he gives her what she wants. But we know better."
" Yes we do." Aramis said. "She plans to kill us all."
" Does she have that much power?" Jandar asked.
" YES!!" Jax, Aramis and Alea said together.
" But I have a plan." Aramis smiled.
It was a quiet night in Prafa as the sleepy guards sipped warm cattle blood on the wall and talked about what was going on in Yadessa. Many of there relatives had been sent to Tir Na by Valkar for there protection. Many had also died in the attacks by the dragons. It had been explained to them how Muerte had taken control of the dragons and made them attack the city. They understood and couldn't hold a grudge against them for some of them had also been controlled by Balthazar when he seized dominion of Vasag. Remembering the feeling of being held in someone else s power made them cringe. But it was different for the dragons. Dominance for them meant searing pain as dragons brains fought for control. But they were free now and couldn't be controlled again. For that they were all thankful. So it was just another boring night on watch they thought. Unknown to them, things were about to change.
Overhead in the sky many bats flew watching the men on guard. They relay back there low numbers to those waiting at the edge of the forest waiting to attack. In the forest Balthazar had sent twenty of his altered warriors on a mission to capture his family and bring them back to him.
[Master.] A nightwalker in charge sent to him. [ There are no more then three on the wall guarding the gate. What are your wishes?]
[ Destroy that city and bring my family to me.] Came the answer. [ Send those in the sky down to silence the guards.]
[ We obey.]
Along the the wall three guards patrolled there eyes almost closed in boredom. At the rear of the gate two vampire bats flew down and came to rest on the deck of the wall behind the guards post. Shifting form, they stood and slowly crept up on the guard and grabbed him. Pulling a sword with a silver blade they quietly slit his throat and lowered him to the deck. One down, the nightwalker held up the sword and sent a flash of reflected light into the sky to send down the next ambush. Minutes late the second guard was also laying face down dead. All that was left was the guard at the gate. He stood and looked around the wall checking on the others. He saw each of them wave to him. He assumed everything was well. A sudden noise from below the wall caught his attention. He looked out and saw a huge dog down in front of the gate barking.
" Quiet mutt!" he yelled.
Turning around a hand closed on his mouth silencing him as the blade was drawn across his throat ending his life. Hurrying over to the gate controls the invader pulled the switch and let the rest of Balthazar's forces in. Quietly they made there way through town from house to house killing everyone then found. Prafa was falling.
Lost in her dreams Angela slept soundly until a voice stirred her awake.
[ Angela, wake up!!] She heard Alea calling to her. [ Prafa is being invaded]
Angela instantly came awake and jumped from her bed. She had to get to Athene and Tanis. Dressed only in her nightgown she ran fron the room and down the hall to there rooms. She bust into Tanis's room and touched his forehead. his eyes open and looked up at her.
" Mother?" He blinked. " Whats the matter?"
" Trouble my sweet." She told him. " Get Adam And Usher. We have to go now!"
Quickly they both were out of the room and Angela was into Athene's room. There she found a nightwalker bending over her daughter.
" GET AWAY FROM HER!! She screamed.
Looking up the nightwalker hissed at her. Angela raised her hand and sent a bolt of energy at the dead thing and blasted it to dust. As the dust settled she ran to the bed and touched her forehead waking her.
" Mother?" Athene opened her eyes. " I was dreaming we were under attack."
" We are Thene." She pulled back the covers and helped her out of bed. " We have to get to the dragons. Hurry!]
As they made there way to the door, Adam and Tanis came running to them carrying Ushers body.
" Oh no!" Athene cried.
" He's dead." Adam told them. " We found him at the top of the stairs with a sword battling a warrior. He killed two nightwalkers before they got him."
Angela reached out and touched his face and closed his eyes. Suddenly crashing noises came from bellow them and they heard footsteps on the stairs.
" Leave him." She said. " You have to go."
" No mother I won't leave you!" Tanis cried.
" None of us all." Adam put Usher down the shifted to his warrior for. coming around the corner, two warriors advanced on them. Sting roared and ran at them grabbing one with his claw and pinning it to the wall. His stinger whipped around and stabbed it twice through its hard shell. Tanis leaped at the second one sending a high kick at its exposed face. He knocked it back as his long talon like nails grew and he thrust them into its brain through its eyes. Both warriors fell dead to the ground.
[ Angela. I can hold them for a few minute.] Alea told her daughter. [ But I'm still on my nightly ride. I can't come help you. Once my ride is over I will find you. Get out of there now!!]
[ Mother I have to get to Arturus.] She sent out. [ I'm sending the children away. Can you help them escape?]
[ Yes but it has to be now.]
"Adam." Angela called to him. " You have to get them to safety for me."
" No!!" Athene cried. " I can't lose you again!"
" Listen to me all of you." She said. " I love you and I'll come to you in New Keanna. But I have to get Uncle out of here to. Get outside into the moonlight and you will be safe."
" What are you talking about?" Tanis asked.
" I don't have time to explain." Angela kissed all three of them. " Go now or I'll send you myself. Go!!"
Sting grabbed Tanis and Athene and pushed them towards the stair as they protested. Turning and running the other way. She ran to a staircase that went up to the next floor. There in his room she found a warrior drooling about to rip into him.
" Oh no you don't!" She whispered a spell that put a force field around Arturus knocked out body. Again and again the warrior tried to stab through her field with no success. Howling he dropped him and turned to her. Angela smiled at it.
" Come on." She waved at it. The warrior charged hard at Angela bringing its claw swinging at her head. She summoned her shields to surround her like armor and blocked the blow then using her shield as a weapon, she swiped low at its armored leg knocking it off its feet. Scrambling like a crab, it came at her its claws open and ready to snap her in two. Wedging her field in between the claws she grabbed hold and started to force them apart. Wider and wider she forced the edges until the was a loud crack and the warrior howl out in pain. Quickly she raised her hands making the shield needle sharp and bought it down to pierce its shell and cut into its heart. Dropping her shield she ran to Arturus as the warrior died with a last shudder.
She pulled him into her arms and touched the waking spot. He didn't respond. She shook him, still nothing. Angela laid him down then stood.
POWER FLOWS AND SENDS YOU OUT.
SAFE YOU'LL BE I HAVE NO DOUBT
TO HEAL AND SLEEP THE TIME IS RIGHT.
I SEND YOU OFF TO AVOID THIS FIGHT.
Magic flashed and a glow began to surround Arturus as he disappeared from the room.
" Get better my brother."
Loud crashing noises began to climbed the stairs as Angela turned to the door. She didn't have the time to fashion a spell to get herself free. This was it she knew. Balthazar had finally found her. But he wouldn't get the weak wife he had before. This time she had the power to fight him. She smiled as the warriors and nightwalkers crashed into the room.
" I am Angela Gaelich." She said. " Take me to my husband."
At the gate to the underworld madness ruled the day as thousands of spirits were attempting to get free into the world while Azeal and his forces were fighting to contain them there. Mage spirits and warriors battled back and forth. The underworld was a war zone with spirits sending each other into oblivion. Azeal Tyr stood battling with his men against Muertes souls freed from there personnel hells. From her balcony she watch reveling in the death she had brought to the dead.
"Push them away from the gates!" Azeal called to his warriors as he swung his swords dispatching spirits one after another. Behind him another with a spear pulled back his arm then hurled the spear flying at Azeal. Just before it struck, Azeal heard a scream and turned.
"NOOO!!" Talin screamed.
As Azeal turned he saw the spear pierce the chest of his comrade. Talin fell to the ground, ectoplasm running from his chest. Azeal stooped to lift him.
"Leave me my lord." He said softly. " Battle on for my family up there. Don't let her win."
" I won't brave one." Azeal put him down and went back to the fighting.
From her balcony Muerte decided she was tired of watching. It was time she put an end to this rebellion. She raised herself into the air and slowly sailed forth into the fray blasting spirit after spirit in her way. Death walked among the dead this day. Glowing in the air with power she sent groups of tens and twenties to there deaths as she moved towards the gate. Azeal looked up and saw her coming his way laughing her evil laugh. She was so beautiful with her red hair flowing around her head. Azeal called for archers to fire on her but it was no use. Not one arrow could get through her power field. This was it Azeal thought to himself. It was over for him. But if he was to die, he would die trying to bring down his enemy. He spun his swords in his hand and called his elite guards around him.
"This is it." He said. "We charge. One of us my get through to her and end this. If not, we go with honor as we lived. Ready!"
"Ready!" The called back.
Like avenging angels they charged on her with weapons raised to bring her down. Suddenly from the gate a deafening call was heard echoing through all of the underworld.
" MUERTE STAND AND FACE ME!!"
All the fighting stopped as everyone turned to look at the gate. There standing proud as ever stood Nestor the true lord of the underworld. With him was Baron Valkar dressed in his old battle armor, twin swords in his hand. Nestor rose up into the air to face Muerte as Baron Valkar flew down to stand with his old enemy. Facing Muerte in his gleaming silver armor Nestor called out to her.
"Alea and I are free hag from our prison." He floated above the ground as the battle waged on beneath them.
"It doesn't matter Uncle." She said smiling seductively. "I beat you once and I'll beat you again."
"Then come on." He smiled holding out his hand showing her the flaming scimitar in his hand. "This will end today."
Muerte's smile faded as she gazed upon the sword in his hand. She knew just what he held. Hazzard the god killer. The goddess of war's deadly weapon.
"Yes." Nestor smiled at her. "This is Hazzard. Serina's weapon. Now we'll see who rules here. They'll be no confinement for you this time."
Nestor readied himself as he advanced on her. Muerte looked around for a way to escape. She knew none of her spell would make any difference against Hazzard and she was not a hand to hand fighter. Her only choice was to run.
"You win Uncle." She spat at him. "You can have your realm back. But this isn't over. You and your wife will feel my revenge soon and I will sit on your throne again. That I promise."
With that she disappeared in a flash of darkness and a loud thunderous crack. Nestor sighed and looked down at the battle raging around him.
"ENOUGH!!" He bellowed.
All the fighting came to a stop as everyone looked up at him there alone. Nestor sailed on towards his palace and stepped onto his balcony. He was home at last.
"Muerte is banished from this realm forever." He stated. "I rule here now and forever. Stand down or suffer the wraith of the true lord of the underworld."
All weapons dropped to the ground as everyone obeyed his command. Azeal ordered his men to round up the opposing force for Nestor to past judgement on. Baron Valkar shook hands with Azeal then went and stood with the forces to be judged,
"What are you doing?" Azeal asked him.
"My punishment is not finished." The Baron told his old enemy. "I go back to my hell. I'm just glad to have been able to do my part to help,"
"Baron Valkar, Azeal Tyr!" Nestor called to them. "Come stand before me."
Together the two old enemies walk to Nestor's palace and bowed before him.
"Rise both of you." The two rose and stood before their lord. "Azeal Tyr. You have been a sworn enemy to this man for century's. He killed many of your people and your own beloved son. I put his punishment in your hands. What shall it be?"
"My lord." Azeal looked on Baron Valkar his once most hated enemy. "I hated this man for years and with great reason. I know he was Muertes first and high lord of all the Vampires. I also know how he suffered over the years because of the curse more then anyone else, but all that is over now. His punishment will be to rest in the Hall of Heroes with the rest of us. His past is behind him, his sins forgiven. Besides, he may still be needed. I don't think this is over."
"You are as wise as you are forgiving, Azeal." Nestor smiled at him. "Baron, the werewolves have forgiven you. Your sentence is absolved. Once the Celestial fields are restored, you shall have a home there next to your friend here. Also, you shall both from now on be able to go to a relative when called."
"We thank you my lord." Azeal and Valkar bowed and stepped out on to the balcony to address the horde of spirits gather there.
"All hail Nestor!" Azeal yelled out. " Lord of the underworld!!"
Cheers went up throughout the realm.
While Jandar and Rage slept, Ono thought the news about Wyland Rusk being free was to important to wait. He knew Wyland would head straight for Tir Na for revenge against the people that put him to death. The werewolves had many legends of the days of the werewolf/vampire war. Wyland Rusk had led a surprise attack on the werewolves on Baron Valkar's orders to capture and kill anyone of the Tyr family line. His magic had been able to disguise his men and shield all there vampire traits from anyone they confronted. But Wyland didn't count on Azeal's new found magic or the spell books he had stolen from Valkar. Azeal had studied hard and mastered spells long forgotten by the vampires and set wards around the Wolves Lair that Wyland knew nothing about. Unknown to the vampires, the second they stepped across the borders of the city alarms went off in Azeal's mind. As they tried to enter Tyr Manor, magic surrounded them and held them in place until Azeal and his guards took them into custody. The unfortunate group was executed as spies. In those days execution of a vampire meant staking out in the town square to wait for the sun to rise and burn them to death. As the sun rose and began to burn him, Wyland Rusk swore he would one day return to have his revenge on the Tyr line. Now it seemed Muerte had given him his chance. He was free again and he had every intention of carrying out his threat.
The full moon shined bright in the clear night sky as Shayn winged his way toward the Wolves Lair with his mate riding on his back. Ahead of them, Shayn saw the clearing they always used where arriving in Tir Na. Shayn spiraled down for a landing wondering how they got into this one.
"I have to warn father." Ono told him climbing off his back. " Besides, Aramis trust us with this and we can do it."
[Take on a vampire mage from hell you mean?] Shayn shifted back to his human form.
"No. " Ono said. "We're just here to warn them."
"We could have done that from home." Shayn walked off towards the Wolves Lair a little annoyed at Ono. "We didn't have to come here to do that."
Ono caught up with Shayn and stopped him. He could feel he was angry with him but he wasn't sure why.
"You trust me?" He asked looking into his eyes.
"Yes." He said as he looked lovingly at him. " Of course I do."
"They why are you mad at me?"
"Because you didn't discuss this with me." He said angrily. " You just pulled me out of bed and ordered me to get dressed."
"I'm sorry." Ono said slipping his arms around Shayn's waist." I thought this was important and couldn't wait. My family may be at risk. Your family too. But I should have explained what's going on. I'm sorry Shay."
Shayn knew he couldn't stay mad at his love and he was right. The family was at risk. If anything happened to any of them, he'd never forgive himself.
"So what do you want to do now?" Shayn asked.
"Call father." He kissed Shayn as the walked off arm in arm.
[Father!!]
[Ono?] The answer came. [Son, this is not a good time. The Wolves Lair is over run by vampire refugees and I'm organizing a force to help Valkar in Yadessa. I can't talk now.]
[But it's important father.]
[What is it Pup?] Drake sent back a little annoyed at the interruption.
[Wyland Rusk is free.] The young werewolf told his father.
For a few seconds Drake was silent as the news his son relayed to him sunk in and he realized what he was saying.
[How do you know this?] Drake asked. This news worried him. Wyland was a definite threat to all of his family including Ono.
[We have friends in the underworld.]
Ono and Shayn made there way through the dark forest with only moonlight to show them the way. They could hear the sounds of the night all around them loudly.
[Ono, where are you?] Drake asked. [I can almost feel you. Are you near here?]
[We're in the forest outside of the Lair heading home.] He answered. Suddenly Shayn stopped. Ono not paying attention almost ran into him.
"Whats wrong?"
"Shh!" Shayn held up his hand to quiet him.
[What is it?] He sent.
[The forest.] Shayn looked around using his magical vision to scan the area they were in. [There's no noise anymore, it just got quiet. There's someone else here with us.]
[Ono!] Drake called to his son. [Both of you shift now and run. Get to the manor fast, we're coming to find you!!]
[Shayn, let's go. We have to hurry. He's here!!]
Shifting to their wolf forms the two lovers took off running towards the Wolves lair keeping an eye out for any threats. As Shayn ran he saw magic flair in front of them and steered Ono off to the right to avoid it. Magical blast began to hit the ground all around them knocking down trees and scooping pits in the soil. Leaping left then right Shayn realized they were being led into a trap. He decided the only way to go was up into the air.
[Ono. We're in trouble here.] He looked over to his mate running next to him.
[I know.] Ono sent back. [I'm sorry I got you into this.]
[It's ok love.] He sent. [I'm going to shift to Gabriel. You have to quickly get on my back so we can fly out of here.]
Shayn concentrated and shifted to his white dragon form. Ono leaped on his back shifting to more of a man wolf form and held on as Shayn vaulted into the air.
"You don't get away that easy." They heard from behind them. A bright glowing net appeared in front of then. Shayn couldn't turn fast enough to avoid it and crashed into it. Down they fell crashing through the dense trees to land together in a heap on the ground. Ono opened his eyes after changing back to his normal form and saw a tall thin man walking towards them with burn scars all over his face. He smiled at them as he stood over them.
"Wyland Rusk." Ono spat at him. "I knew you would come."
"Of course." He said looking down on them. "I swore to have my revenge didn't I. Now I shall,starting with you, the youngest Tyr."
Wyland raised his glowing hands over the two lovers on the ground and made a gesture summoning his power. In a beam of crimson power he sent a blast at them. Shayn woke just as Wyland attacked. He saw the bolt of magic coming and turned himself so it would hit him instead of Ono.
"NOOOO!!" Ono screamed as the blast hit the Salvation stone Shayn carried and they were bathed in a blinding blue light. At the same second, Drake and Tof arrived to see Wyland's spell strike them.
"NOOOO!!!" Drake yelled and leaped savagely on Wyland slashing and ripping him apart. Tof ran to his brother shielding his eyes from the bright illumination that covering them. Slowly it began to fade and they could see again. Drake ran over and left Wyland's corpse to see how Shayn and Ono were. As he approached he saw Tof backing away.
"What is it?" Drake asked. "How are they?"
"Gone." he said, "There's no one here. Father they're gone!!"
Drake stepped forward in front of Tof to where he saw them laying and found nothing there. Tears filled his eyes as his heart was breaking. His Ono was dead? He couldn't believe that. He closed his eyes and reached out with his mind. Out past the forest. Past the Wolves Lair. He stretched his mind out over all the lands near Tir Na to New Keanna. He found Jandar laying in his bed with Rage and woke him.
[Jandar, help me!]
[Father?] Jandar sat up in there bed. [What is it?]
[It's Ono.] He sent. [Somethings happened. He and Shayn are gone.]
[Gone where?] He asked. [What happened to them?]
[They were attack be an old enemy.] Drake allowed Jandar into his mind to witness what he had seen when he arrived. He saw Wylands attack and his magic strike the Salvation stone. Jandar saw the blue flash as the magics mixed and blinded those watching. Then it cleared and Jandar saw they were gone.
[Where are they?] Drake screamed in Jandar's mind. [Where is my pup? We have to find him!!]
Jandar knew his father was losing control. He felt the fear of losing Ono creep into his heart. He had to calm him down.
[Father.] He sent to him. [I will find him. They're not dead. We would have felt their death if that was what happened.]
Jandar reached over and shook Rage awake. Rage sat up looking a bit dazed and looked at Jandar. He saw the horror on his face.
"What's wrong?" he asked.
"It's Ono and Shayn." He said. "Somethings happened. Call Eheren, I need him here now."
[Tof.] Jandar called his brother.
[Yes brother.] He answered.
[Get father home.] He said. [He's going to be out of it for a while so you will be in control there. I will find them. Just have Sharone keep him calm until I get there. Aggar can help with Valkar and Yadessa.]
[I'll do as you say.] He promise him. [Jandar? Are you sure they're OK?]
[Yes.] He assured his brother. [I don't know where they are, but they're not dead. Get father home now. And take Wyland and stake him out again. Let the sun have him. We'll be there soon.]
[We're on our way.]
After sending out the call to Eheren and Jax, Rage waited for Jandar to finish with Drake before asking any questions.
"What the hell is going on?" He asked.
"Our two yougest went out on there own to warn my father about trouble on the way." He told him. As he finished there was a knocked at the door. Rage got up and opened it. It was Jax and Eheren.
"We have a problem." He told them. "Listen."
"Muerte open the gates to the underworld and freed some of the worst to come back and terrorize us." Jandar explained. "She's trying to divert our attention away from her."
"Right now." Rage said. "I don't care about her. What happened to Ono and Shayn?"
"There missing." Jandar said.
"What!!" Rage jumped to his feet smokes seeping from his nose. "WHERE ARE OUR BOYS?"
"Calm down love" Jandar stood and put his hands on his shoulders and sat him back down. "I don't know where they are. But if they were hurt we would feel it. Right? You would feel if Shayn was hurt wouldn't you?"
"Damn!" Jax said. "I was afraid they might do something."
"What do you mean?" Rage asked still hopping mad. "You know something about this?"
"They were suppose to stay here and tell you about the men Muerte sent back to Keanna." Jax said looking at Jandar and Rage. "Not go off after them. I should have known they would act on there own."
"No, it's not your fault." Rage said. "Those two are pretty headstrong."
"We can probe for them." Eheren said. "You, Jandar and I. And Jandar's right. If either of them were hurt, we would know. There's something you should know. Muerte no longer rules the underworld."
"What happened?" Jandar asked.
"You know Aramis freed Alea and Nestor from their moon prison." Eheren explained. " Nestor went back down and was able to take it back from her. So now she's back up here somewhere. I think we should call Aramis. He may know something that can help."
Jandar and Rage walked to the desk by the window and sat down to talk.
"We have to find them." Rage said. Jandar could hear the worry in his voice.
" I know love." Jandar took his hand to calm him. " But with Muerte on the loose she's more important. I think she'll head straight to Yadeesa and Balthzar. Ono and Shayn can take care of themselves for now. We have the rest of the world to worry about. If we don't, she could win and then finding them won't matter."
"Why do you have to be so smart?" Rage said frustrated. He bent forward and kissed his mate.
"Its my curse." Jandar smiled. "We'll put Cutter on the search for the boys once he's back. He has the best mental ability's."
"And I need to talk to Aramis to see what he wants to do next." Rage said. "I think this is about to get crazy, love."
"We have to go to Tir Na." Jandar got up. "Eheren, get everyone together. We need to have a meeting."
"As you wish my lords." Eheren left to carry out there orders.
"There's something else you should know." Jax sat back down.
"This isn't going to be good is it?" Rage asked.
"Shh!" Jandar quieted his mate. "Let him finish."
"After freeing Alea and her husband Nestor, Aramis brought them back here. We wanted them to meet you two, but you were asleep."
"And?" Rage said. Jandar gave him that raised eye brow look and Rage shut up.
"Alea is a prophetess." Jax told them. "A damn good one. The minute she touched Ono, she made a prediction."
Both Jandar and Rage slumped down on the bed and sighed. They both had history with prophesies. Rage was right, it wasn't going to be good.
"What was it." Jandar asked.
"She told them their destiny would take them far from home." He said. "This is what she said."
Protect the white and grey.
For they will cause the end of a thousand years of tyranny and enslavement.
Their power and courage will doom the high ones and bring freedom to all that suffer and fight with them.
The mark of the wolf and dragon will be the sign.
"And that's our boys right there" Rage threw his hands up.
"Any idea where they may be?" Jandar asked.
"None." Jax said. "They may not even be on Keanna any more."
"What's that mean?" Rage said standing and getting upset. His eyes began to glow with fire.
"Calm down love." Jandar pulled him down beside him. "This is there destiny. Neither Jax or Alea are responsible for any of this."
"I know." Rage told them. "I just want them home safe. Is there any way to fine them?"
"I know someone that may be able to help." Jax got back on his feet. "My brother Karis. He's my fathers messenger and he has access to many different realms that are out of our normal paths. If anyone can find them, he can."
"Can we put this in your hands Jax?" Jandar looked up at him worried. "We trust you and I know you care for both of them."
"I'd be honored to do all I can." He said bowing to them."I'll bring them home. I promise."
Sounds of crashing and Furniture being destroyed could be heard echoing all through the underworld as Muerte ripped and torn the the palace. She had been disappointed again by agents she sent out to ravage Keanna. Once done rampaging through the palace she went and sat back down on the throne. She had one more idea. She had millions of spirits at hand to use. The could be sent out to cause havoc and distract the dragons until she was ready for them and started her death walk. She got up from her throne and walked out onto her balcony. There was not a soul in sight. She smiled. That's good she thought. That means they fear me. But her will was supreme here so her voice would be heard through out the realm.
" TO ALL OF YOU IN PRIVATE HELLS. I'M RELEASING YOU AND SENDING YOU OUT AMONG THE LIVING TO TORMENT THEM AND KILL AS MANY AS YOU CAN. I GIVE YOU BACK YOUR PHYSICAL AND ABILITIES. GO DESTROY KEANNA. I COMMAND IT."
Azeal Tyr listened from the palace he used for his command with Baron Valkar at his side in what was once the Celestial Fields, home of the blessed. They looked at each other knowing this meant trouble. Together, they ran from the marble estate Azeal calling for his aides.
" Talin, Lucien! " He called.
From up of the crowd of thousands two spirit came sailing from the crowd to see what there leader wanted.
" You called Azeal?" Lucien bowed to the werewolf
" Yes." He said. " I need you to take a force to the gate and stop anyone from leaving or thousands of murderous spirits will be out terrorizing the world above. I think the time to move is close."
" Yes sir!" Lucien said. " This isn't going to be easy. Some of us spirits won't make it through this. "" We know. But our families will be safe if we can stop her." The Baron told them." That's whats important."
" Yes Lucien. We swore to help stop her." Talin put his hand on his friends arm. " my great grandchildren deserve to live out there live. She wont let the do that."
" I know. Lets get going." Lucien said. " Gather some warriors. We don't have much time. They'll be going out any minute now.
" And I should get back to the Manor." The Baron told his old enemy turning to leave. " There going to want to know about this turn of events."
" Baron." Azeal stopped him." I can't do this along. Only Nestor or one of the others can stand against her. Otherwise, this is all for nothing and she will win."
" I know Azeal." He said." So does Aramis. He made it clear to me he planned to free Alea and Nestor. I've just been so busy here with you, I don't know whats going on in the real world. But don't worry, I'll be as quick as I can with answers."
Willing himself transparent Baron Valkar took to the air and headed for the gate back to the world above. Bellow him he saw all the men they had assembled to fight Muerte. There were thousands of spirits down there. He hoped it would be enough. Ahead of him he saw the gate. A great crimson spiral that was usually one way. But Muerte had opened it so souls could leave now. Stepping through the gate Baron Valkar recognize someone. It was someone that served him when he was alive. Wyland his court mage. One of the most evil men that he had ever met. This wasn't good at all. He knew he would go right back to attacking the werewolves. He had to get Lucien to the gate to stop anyone else from leaving.
[ Lucien!!] He called out. [ You have to hurry. there a line at the gate of spirits leaving.]
[ Here we are!] He heard. [ No one else will be leaving!]
The Baron looked back as he pasted into the gate and saw a battle waging. Lucien had arrived with his troops and was fighting them back. Baron Valkar breathed a sigh of relief. He knew he better hurry. She could make her move anytime and Lucien wouldn't be able to stop her.
Back at the Manor, Aramis stood at the gate with Nestor and Ono. He sent out his probes to try and locate Baron Valkar. He found him on his way back to the Manor and called.
[ Baron. How is everything in the underworld?"
[ Desperate.] He said as he materialized. [ Azeal and I have gather an army to fight Muerte. But we need someone to lead it with godly power.]
He looked at Nestor then back to Aramis.
[ My lord.] He bowed. [ I'm pleased your free.]
" I've been told good things about you and Azeal." Nestor looked at him sternly. " You have my thanks. Both you and Azeal."
" Perhaps we should be on our way." Aramis held out his hand and called to Jax to send him Hazzard. The flaming sword appeared in his hand. " Ready?"
[ Just a minute.] Baron Valkar turned to Ono. [ I have a warning for your father. Tell him Wyland Rusk is free.]
The look of shock on Ono's face told him he knew the name and the history.
" How is that possible?" Nestor asked. " My spells on the gate prevents anyone but those I have exempted from leaving there."
[ Muerte has opened the gate.] The Baron told them.[ We have guards fighting to keep everyone in, but a few made it out before they got there. Someones going to have to catch them and send them back.]
" I'll let everyone now." Ono said. " You better go before she does something worst."
" Wait." Aramis said looking at Hazzard in his hand. " Once we appear in the underworld. Muerte will know we're there. Can you defeat her, Nestor?"
" With that I can." He said reaching for Hazzard. Aramis pulled it away.
" I can't give this to you." He stepped back.
" But that was a part of the plan." He frowned. " I can end this with that."
" No you can't." Aramis told him. " Not down there. If you do, she will become so powerful she will win."
" How do you know this?" Nestor shouted at him
" Father told me." He shouted back." You believe him? Is his word enough for you?"Nestor looked at him in surprise. Rimnar hadn't been heard form in centuries. But if his son said he talked to him, he believed him.
" Lord Rimnar's word will do." He said. " What do you want to do then?"
" If we make a duplicate, do you think she'll know?" Ono asked.
Nestor and Aramis looked at Ono in awe then they both burst out laughing.
" I don't think she'll let it get close enough to tell the difference." Aramis clapped Ono on the back. " She must know how Cressca died by now. She knows we have it I'm sure. It might work. Thank you my prince."
" I can conjure a fake." Nestor said.
" Good. Ono, you get going. You father and Jandar need that information." Aramis gripped his shoulder. " When he and Rage wake. Tell them to be ready.
Lets go."
" Who is this woman?" Angela looked her over. She saw the resemblance between the two of them. Alea had long dark hair and Angela's was pure white now ,but otherwise they could be twin sisters.
" Atol." Alea said. " Is this...?"
" I knew the minute I saw her." He smiled and nodded.
Alea walked around the stunned woman admiring her.
" Can one of you please tell me what is going on here." She was beginning to be annoyed.
" Angela, this is my sister Alea." He said. " Goddess of the moon. And she's.."
" Stop." Alea took her by the hand and walked her to the couch and they sat down, She reached up and touched Angela's face. " Your so beautiful."
" Who are you?"
" I'm your mother." Tears ran from Alea's eyes as she grabbed Angela and pulled her into a hug. Shocked, she just sat there and let this woman hug her, But what she said made no sense to her. How was this possible?
" How can this be?" She asked her. " It can't be true."
" It is true." She pushed the hair from her face. " Years ago I found I was with child. I didn't tell anyone other then my parents who foresaw my greats enemy torturing and killing my child. So I had to hide you from everyone. I think you know what I'm talking about."
" What do you mean?" Angela asked.
" I met my granddaughter outside." She said. " Didn't you do the same thing? You hid her from the exact same enemy. Muerte. I watched Athene for years from above even though I couldn't do much to help. I gave her her dream abilities to protect her. I even sent Jandar to protect her when she needed help."
" What about me when I was imprisoned by my husband?" She asked. " You didn't try and free me?"
" I've been imprisoned too." She said. " And my powers were so limited. But I did send Adam to be your guard and influencing Balthazar was no easy task."
" I tried to find my parent for years with no clue who they were." Angela was on the verge of tears. " You left me nothing."
" I knew who you would marry. One of her disciples." Alea took her hand. " If he had any idea who you really were what do you think would have happened? Tell me, what would he have done?"
Angela thought for a minute. For years Balthazar had raged about how his goddess hated the moon and the werewolves the moon children. She knew the answer to her question.
" He would have killed me in the most horrible way." She looked deeply in her mothers eyes. She could tell what she was hearing was the truth. " I not sure now to react to all this. I mean what am I? A vampire, a goddess? What?"
" Neither." Atol said as he sat across from them. " I know you've fed all your life on cattle blood. But both your parents are gods. You will need to be presented to Rimnar and Saila to be confirmed."" And then?"
" Then your godly abilities will be available to you." Atol stood and looked at the mother and daughter. " But until then, I want you at New Keanna. The dragon's manor is the safest place for you."
" Why?" Angela asked. " Prafa is safe. Theres no one after me."
" Yes there is." Alea looked at her with worry. " He still wants both you and your children. And if he finds out your my daughter. He will do anything to turn you over to her. Please all three of you should go to the dragons. He wont attack there."
" I will do as you wish mother." Angela hugged Alea. " When do I meet my father?"
" As soon as the underworld is free I will bring him to you." She looked out the window and noticed it was late. Alee would be surprised to see her. " It's time for me to go. Be safe my darling. "
In a flash of light, she was gone. Angela looked at Atol smiling at her.
" I guess your my uncle then?"
" Yes I am." He said. " And so is Jax, Aramis and Alee."
" What do I tell my children about this?" She asked.
" Nothing." He said getting up to leave. He kissed her. " I must go too. Just get them to safety. We'll meet you at the Manor. "
Atol walked toward the door and faded away. Angela sat there thinking about what had just happened to her. She couldn't believe it still. She looked out the window and watched her children talking at the gate. Balthazar had no idea where she was. There was no hurry getting to New Keanna. She would leave in the morning. She walked to the stairs and headed up to her room to rest. Up in the rafted a vampire bat unfolded his wings and dropped down and flew out the window. He had a report to make to his master.
The council building doors flew open and Insa came running out leaving a trail of smoke behind him. He had just got a warning from Jandar about an eminent attack on Winterhaven by dragons. As he ran down the cobbled street he shifted to smoke and flowed between the people going about there daily business on the streets. He had warned the council, now he was on his way to the city gates to activate the city defenses. as he approached he shifted back to human form and surprised the guards on duty.
" Councilmen Insa." The guard looked at him in dismay. " Is there something we can do for you?"
" Yes." He said. " We're about to be attack. Activate the shields at once!"
" At once sir!!" Spinning on his heels the guard ran to the gate house and started issuing orders to all the guards within. Suddenly a hum could be heard growing through out the city and the skies developed a golden hue as the magical shield covered the city. Just then Fiero dived out of the sky spewing flames at the gate. Everyone on the wall dived for cover as the flames hit the shield and were reflected back at him. Fiero roared out his anger and slammed himself against the shields. As Insa watched the guards all went running from the walls of the gates into the city in terror. The only one to stay at his post was a young elf named Morganz manning the shield controls. Insa quickly ran into the gate house.
" When you hear my roar." He said. " I want you to turn off the shield then switch it back on again."
" Your not going out there?" Morganz said grabbing Insa's arm. " Its suicide."
" Don't worry son. I can handle myself." Insa patted his shoulder. " On my roar. Off, then on, got it?"
" Yes sir." He saluted.
Shifting back to smoke, Insa flew out and up onto the wall. As he watched Arik attacked battering at the shield then pulled back so Fiero could dive in again to flame the shield. The shield was taking a really strong beating. Insa wasn't sure if it could hold out until Rage and Jandar got there. In his smoke form he watched both Fiero and Arik streak back up into the sky to ready another assault. This was his chance. Insa roared and the shields fell. Quickly he took off out of the city as the shields came back on behind him. Now it was up to him to hold off the dragons until help arrived.
[ Rage, you better hurry.] He sent. [ I don't know how long I can hold them.]
[ Insa?] Jandar sent. [ What the hell are you doing?]
[ Giving you time to get here. The shields won't take there attack much longer. Just hurry!!]
[ We're over the bay.] Rage sent. [ Two minutes.]
Soaring up into the sky, Insa formed claws out of his smoky essence and slashed at Fiero's back. Fiero roared in pain as he banked to the side to avoid the smoke cloud. As he pasted he sent a stream of flame at Insa. Quickly becoming smoke the flame went right through him as he turned himself again to slash at the fire dragon. But twisting in the air Fiero managed to angle himself out of the way. Suddenly and a great gust of wind caught Insa and defused his smoke leaving the dragon exposed. As Insa looked up he saw a gout of flame coming at him that he couldn't avoid. This was it, he thought. Suddenly Rage flew out of no where and blocked the the flame with his own. Behind Rage, Insa saw another dragon. This one was golden. He thought it was Shine, but his crest was totally different. This had to be Valen, the first dragon.
[ Get back to the city.] Rage sent. [ You've done your job. Thank you old father! Jandar, take the others down to nthe city. Valen and I will take care them.]
[ Love.] Jandar sent to him. [ You can't kill them. There innocent dragons being control by Muerte.]
[ Then what do suggest I do?]
[ I know exactly what to do.] Jandar sent to both Rage and Valen. [ It won't be easy.]
After explaining his plan to them Jandar,Dreik and Jade headed down to Winterhaven to watch from the gate walls as they took off to battle the two dragons.
[ Valen, you take Fiero.] Rage sent. [ Try and contact him. He's in there fighting to be free, I can feel it.]
[ I know.] Valen said. [ I feel it too. ]
Diving down at Fiero, Valen reached out to see if he could feel his mind. He felt the pain that was driving his brother mad, and a spark of intelligence. He was fighting her. Valen called out to him.
[ Fiero!] He sent. [ Little brother. Its me Valen,]
Fiero shook his head as if to knock the voice out of his mind and sent his flame at the golden dragon. Valen didn't even try to avoid it. He didn't have to. Fiero's flame couldn't hurt him. It never could.
[ Fiero, you have to remember me and your sister Jade. Please!]
[ Sister?] He sent. [ Jade? Remember? No!!]
The red dragon launched himself at Valen only to get knocked away with the batting of his golden wing. Valen wasn't sure talking was doing any good. Maybe Jandar's plan was the only way. In his fist Valen held a piece of the Salvation stone. He would have to get close enough to plant it in his head. He wasn't sure Fiero would let him get that close.
Rage flew head on at Arik and sent a stream of flame towards him that he easily flew around. But as he did, Rage reached out and grabbed his leg throwing him off course. Arik tumbled through the air but caught himself and sent a hard blast of air at Rage. Folding his wings, Rage dropped like a rock until he was under Arik and kicked out hitting him in the chest. Arik roared out in pain and veered of to catch his breathe. But Rage wasn't going to give him that much time. Angling his wings, Rage dived down and slammed into Ariks back then launched himself away.
[ Come and get me Airbag!!]
And Rage took off. Angered, Arik gave chase after him. Unknown to Arik, Rage had just dropped Denner on his back in the form of a spider. So small Arik never noticed he was there. Increasing himself in size, Denner crawled as quickly as he could along the dragons back. As Rage sent gout's of flame back at Arik to keep him distracted from feeling Denner and shaking him off. Denner kept moving. Crawling along Ariks back, Denner found himself on Ariks head. He shifted back to human and slammed his Salvation stone down onto the dragons forehead then dived off shifted to eagle and flew off.
As the Salvation stones magic took affect Arik howled out in pain and dropped fron the sky shifting to human as he fell.
[NO!! ARIK!!] Fiero screamed. Seeing his brother fall was all he needed to destroy the spell. [ Valen save him!!]
Rage dived down folding his wings to his back and was like an arrow moving through the air. As he approached Arik, he reached our and grabbed him out of the air then opened his wings and sailed over the surface of the water. Suddenly a large column of water shot up and Maxius the water dragon appeared. Turning west Rage turned aside to miss him. Looking back he saw Mortimer riding Maxius's back. He climbed forward until he reached his head and place a blue stone on the top of his head. Rage saw him wave as Maxius howled then slipped back under the waves.
[ I got him!] Rage heard. [ Don't worry. I'll get him out of the water and back to shore. Call someone to pick us up.]
[ I'll meet you there and give you a lift.] Rage headed for the shore to wait for the Merman and the passed out dragon.
Opening his eyes Fiero looked up to see Valen sitting in a chair next to his bed. He rubbed his eyes not sure if he was dreaming. He looked around not sure where he was.
" It's not a dream." Valen said leaning over and wiping Fiero's forehead. "Your free of her. She'll never get in your mind again. I promise."
" Arik?" He said. " I saw him fall?"
Valen pointed to the beds next to his. There he saw both Arik and Maxius sleeping soundly.
" Are they alright?"
" They're fine. Slip into there dreams and see." Valen smiled.
Fiero looked at his brothers and remember all that had happened to them. Tears began to run down his face as he turned away from Valen and cried.
" Little brother whats wrong" Valen asked.
" I failed you." He said. " I couldn't protect them."
" Nonsense." Valen said as he got up and sat on the bed next to him." If it wasn't for you. Both of them would be brain dead. You kept them alive and you fought so hard you broke her spell on your own. I felt the pain. Jade and I both did. We know what you endured. I am so proud of you."
" What now?" Fiero asked.
" You three get some sleep." He said. " You need it. You haven't slept in weeks. Let us deal with her. That's an order."
" I don't think I can get out of this bed anyway."
Valen get up and pulled the covers up over his second the ran his hand through his hair.
" Go dream with your brothers. I'll come check on you later." He said as he headed for the door. " Sleep well little brother."
Outside the door Cutter waited for him. Valen held up his finger to keep him quiet and walked him down the hall.
" Does he remember yet?"
" No." Valen told him. " You can make sure they never remember?"
" Yes." Cutter told him. " Don't worry. They won't remember what she made them do until you can help them with the memories."
" Good." Valen said. He looked sad as he turned to head down to Rage and Jandar's study. Muerte had made Fiero and the others do some horrible things. He knew it was time to end this. She had to be stopped.
Restful sleep found Fiero, Arik and Maxius at last. There dreams were of rolling through the skies and the ocean and of days when they were all younger. But still there was something missing. Fiero kept seeing flashes of two unknown dragons in his dreams. A golden one and beautiful green one. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't recognize either of them. But for some reason he didn't feel any danger from them. Atleast he and his brothers were free and the pain was almost gone.
As he flew high over the mountains he heard someone call to him. A chill ran through his mind. He knew that call. It was her. The bronzes sweet call that froze his mind and put him back under her spell. He tried to resist but she was more powerful then he was. Fiero concentrated on his brothers and found that he could keep a small part of himself free of her control. He knew the more he fought, the more he may be able to finally break free. But for now, he knew he was back in her control.
[ You are my weapon now.] She said. [ Take your brothers and destroy. Destroy every city and town you find. Kill everyone you see! Go now!!]
[ ARGGGGHHH!!! ] Valen screamed in pain and fell from the sky. Rage and Denner dived down after the falling dragon and caught him before he crashed into the ground. Gently the two dragons lowered him to the ground where he shifted to his human form. As Jandar jumped from Rages back Dreik brought his boulder down carrying him and Jade to rest a few feet from the stricken dragon. Jade jumped down and ran to her leader.
" Valen!" She called lifting him into a sitting position. " What happened?"
" Its our brothers." He said. " She's got them again. There minds are searing with pain again."
" Got damn!" Rage slammed his fist into Dreiks boulder." This his got to stop!"
" Easy love." Jandar took hold of his fist to make sure he hadn't hurt himself. " Don't do that again. Hurting yourself won't help." Jandar scolded him.
" I know." Rage said as he kissed his mate. " Its just so frustrating. Every time we think were close, she finds a way to thwart our progress."
" Can you still track them?" Denner asked.
Valen closed his eyes and concentrated. He saw Fiero carrying Maxius with Arik next to him flying. They were attacking a small city. Burning and causing tornadoes to rip apart the city.
" We have to hurry." Valen said. " Its happening again. There on the attack."
" Then climb on and rest." Dreik said. " I'll do the flying now."
Jandar and rage both put an arm around Valen and helped him to the huge slab of rock Dreik was controlling. jade helped him settle himself in a position that was comfortable.
" Your sure the tree of us is not to heavy?" He asked.
" I could lift a mountain if i have to now." Dreik smiled. " You just rest and let me take care of it."
Rage shifted and Jadar climbed back on his back. Denner transformed into a large eagle, he spread his great wings and took off.
[ Lets go.] Rage sent. He took off then Dreik lifted his boulder and easily took them into the air after his companions.
[ How far away are they?] Denner asked.
" Just over that ridge ahead of us." Valen answered.
Climbing higher they noticed how grey the sky was. There nose told them it was smoke. Something was burning over there. They all had a feeling they knew what was happening over there.
" Please tell me that's not what I think it is." Jade said. She strained to try and see over the ridge.
" We'll know in a minute." Dreik said.
In a line they breached the top of the ridge. What they saw shocked all of them. The town below them was totally covered in flames. Every house on shop was a blaze. They saw no running people, but they did see burning bodies.
" Heaven help us!!" Jandar whispered.
[ Who could have done this?] Denner sent.
" Fiero did this." Valen told them. " I can smell him in the air."
[ No, Muerte did this.] Rage said. [ Fiero doesn't have this in his heart. I doubt Polan would do this.]
" She's that powerful?" Dreik asked.
" Havnt you been listening to Aramis and Jax?" Jandar asked. " Goddess of death. Yes, she's that powerful."
[ Then what chance have we got against her?] Denner asked. [ She can take control of us just as easily.]
" No she can't." Jandar reached up and touched the salvation stone embedded at his throat. " This prevents her from controlling us. And you forget. We have Aramis on our side. Life will overcome death."
" You hope so." Dreik called out.
" Wrong. I know so." Jandar said. " Its one of the first rules of magic. Good overcomes evil and life overcomes death. We'll win this battle, we just have to keep fighting."
[ There not here anymore. We move on.] Rage said. [ Which way Valen?]
[ North and hurry. There heading for another town.]
Far in the north the trio of dragons saw in the distance a large city. Fiero groaned in his mind.
[ Not again!!]
Arik flew up next to his brother and looked over at him. His mind was so jumble he could no longer send his thoughts, All he could do was obey what she put in his head. Fiero could see the tears of pain in his eyes. Deep in his mind he knew he was screaming for Fiero to help him. Fiero pushed out out with his mind and sent soothing thoughts to both his brothers. A stabbing pain came back at him. He pushed it away seeing the relief come over there eyes. There pain had been relieved for the moment. Now to the task below them. Winterhaven.
Realizing when they were, the dragons put on more speed. There could only be two destinations for the dragons. New Keanna or Winterhaven and both meant disaster.
" There heading to Winterhaven." Jandar said to Rage. "We have to stop them before they get there."
[ I'm calling Ono to be on watch just in case. He can put Ariel in the bay to stop Maxius.] He sent back to his mate. [ You call Insa. Have him put the city on alert. They have magical shields that should hold them off until we can get there. Denner, Dreik we have to move!! Lets go!]Prafa was quiet since the attacks from Balthazar had stopped. And that put the whole city on edge. Tanis and Athene were on the gate talking with Adam when they heard from Ono what was happening there.
[ We can be there to help in an hour.] She sent to Ono. " Tanis, get mother. we have trouble at the Manor."
" Whats going on?"
" A dragon attack."She told them.
" Dragons fighting dragons?" Adam shook his head. " What can we do to help?"
[ Nothing.] Ono said. [ Your safe there. Besides I don't trust Balthazar. This is the perfect time for him to attack. Stay there and keep your eyes open.]
[ If that's what you want.] Athene sent. [ Promise to let me know what happens.]
[ We will.] And he was gone.
" I'm scared Tanis." Athene sat down on a bench on the wall. " Father's been to quiet. I know he's up to something."
" So do I." Adam told them. " And I think I know what."
Both Athene and Tanis looked at the large friend. Tanis still amazed at the change in him. Last time he saw Adam, he was the warrior Sting. Strong and simple but loyal to his mother. Now look at him. Tall and handsome with a clear thinking mind again.
" What are you thinking?" He asked.
" I think he's building a army fashioned after my warrior form. Can you image that?"
" I hope not." They heard out of the air. A second later Atol appeared smiling standing next to a woman with sparkly hair the looked a lot like there mother. The three stood there with there mouths open staring at Alea. A little uncomfortable at the stares, she smiled and greeted them with a nod.
" You see it to I guess. Atol looked at Alea to.
" What in the world are you talking about?" She frowned.
" You'll see." He said. "Where's you mother?"
" In the house." Tanis stammered. Atol and Alea started down the stairs and Tanis and Athene went to follow. Atol stopped and looked at them.
" I think this is going to be a private meet." He said. " You two stay here."
" But mother might.."Athene started.
" Stay!" He turned and led Alea down and up the street. Alea was by now getting a little annoyed by all the secrecy. And goddesses weren't really good with annoyance. The walked to the back of the town to a small house with a sign that read Blacksmith. Atol knocked at the door. An elder bald vampire opened the door and greeted them
" Lord Atol." He said." I'm pleased to see you. Come in. Who is this beautiful..." His mouth dropped open.
" That's it!" Alea said." Whats going on? Whys everyone so shocked when they see me?"
" Usher," She heard. " We have guest?"
Atol stepped out of the way to reveal a beautiful white haired woman that could be her twin. Alea and Angela stood the in shock staring at each other.
"Angela, meet Alea. The goddess of the moon." Atol smiled. " I thought you should meet."
High on the tallest mountain on Keanna a magical light flashed and a tall handsome god appeared. Aramis stepped out and walked out aways and looked up into the sky. In his mind the saw memories of his home on Fortis. All his brothers and sisters. There homes and palaces on that beautiful mountain in the sky. He remember his parents, beautiful Saila, goddess of the heavens and Rimnar the eternal one. He was in need of there help right now. For his only they could advise of how to destroy his own wife, Muerte the death goddess. Aramis sat himself on a ledge overlooking a distant range of mountains. It was beautiful up here and quiet. A perfect place to find them.
" Father, Mother!!" He called out. " I need your help. I can't forgave all the death she has bought of the world. All her evil deeds. She has hurt some of us and destroyed many people. What do I do? Binding her powers and imprisonment is not an option anymore. She would just find a way to free herself and it would start all over again. I have what I need to bring an end to her. But I won't do that without your council. Father?"
Lightning flashed and the mountain rumbled as clouds rolled in and covered the sky. A single beam of light broke through the clouds and shine down on him.
MY SON, YOU KNOW WHAT MUST BE DONE. SHE HAS BROKEN EVERY LAW I EVER MADE FOR US. AND MUST BE PUNISH.
" But death father?" Aramis said. " Is that the answer?"
IT IS HER WAY. SHOULD HER PUNISHMENT BE ANY DIFFERENT THEN WHAT SHE WOULD HAND OUT?
" I don't know." He said.
: You once loved her my son. Can you condemn her now?:
" She destroyed that love, Mother." He said. " She is the one forcing my hand here. This is not something I want to do."
THEN YOU HAVE YOUR ANSWER MY SON. YOU KNOW WHAT TO DO. SEND HER TO US. WE WILL CARE FOR HER.
" Yes father." He put his head down. " I know what to do."
ARAMIS. YES I KNOW YOUR NEW NAME. IT PLEASES US BOTH. DO NOT LET HER DIE IN THE UNDERWORLD.
: If she does, she will be unstoppable:
The clouds began to break out as there voices faded.
FAREWELL SON. BE CAREFUL. SHE IS POWERFUL.
And they were gone.
Death walked the halls of the manse of the lord of the underworld. Not one spirit would dare enter these hall for any reason unless called by there new mistress for all feared her anger. Muerte had seen the last of her agents beaten. Kearn was now imprisoned in a volcano and useless to her. She should have expected they would all fail. They were all lucky the dragons and her brothers had taken care of them instead of her for they were far more merciful then she would have been. The only one left free was Dirod and she could tell he was fading in to oblivion. He had not even tried to do her bidding, instead he hide himself in his mountain and just gave up. All she had left was the dragons of Valen's clan.
" Fine." She said out loud. " They can wreck havoc across the lands."
She knew exactly where they where. All she had to do was get to them before Valen and the rest of the dragons did. They were a little confused, but she could reinforce her spells and get them back to killing for her.
Muerte walked to the front entrance and left the palace. With a wave of her hand she disappeared in a flash of darkness heading for the world of the living.
In a flash of light and magic, Aramis appeared in the courtyard of the Manor in New Keanna with Atol, Alea and Nestor. He had made contact with Ono and Shayn telling them they were coming so they were waiting in the garden for them. As they appeared Shayn and Ono dressed in there finest tunic and leathers came over to greet them
" My Lady." Shayn bowed as Ono stared. He elbowed him back to his senses. " My apologies." Ono said bowing. " Welcome to New Keanna."
" Alea, Nestor." Aramis introduced them smiling. " This is King Shayn Whitehall and his mate Prince Onoacio Tyr my brothers."
" We're pleased to meet you." Alea smiled. " You must be something special for my brother Vita, I mean Aramis to consider you brothers."
" You have no idea sister." He said. " These people protected me and cared for me like family from the moment Jax and I stepped through there cities gates."
" I wish to thank you all for that." Alea reached for there hands. First Shayn. She took his hand in hers.
" A white dragon." She said, " Very impressive. White ones don't come along very often. You my friend will be very powerful."
Shayn smiled not knowing what to say. Next Ono stepped up and she took his hand. Alea started to speak and thank Ono when she stopped. She looked deeply in his eyes.
" Your destiny is not here." She said frowning as her eyes clouded over.
" Not here at all. You and your mate will do great things somewhere else. Somewhere far from here and away from your clan."
Protect the white and grey.
For they will cause the end of a thousand
years of tyranny and enslavement.
There power and courage will doom
the high ones and bring freedom to
all that suffer and fight with them.
The mark of the wolf and dragon will be the sign.
As her eyes cleared she saw everyone staring at her. She blushed and smiled at them.
" Shall we go in?" Aramis said guiding them towards the entrance of the Manor. Together they followed Aramis in. Once inside Ono stopped in the foyer.
" That was a prophesy wasn't it?" He asked.
" Yes it was." She told him.
" What does it mean?" Shayn asked. " We're going somewhere?"
" I can tell you no more." Alea told them. " I don't know how or where your going. I just know the two of you will leave here in the future.
" Forever?" Ono asked. The look on his face told her she had scared him. But she had no more answers to give them. She was sorry she had told them what she had. But her prophecies had a life of their own and had to come out.
" I don't know the answer to that." She tried to comfort them. " I think things will work out for you. I don't see death, just what I've said. Only you can make your futures what you wish. But there is something you will need. That jewel you both wear. There is a larger piece yes?"
" Yes." Ono reached up to touch the salvation stone at his neck. " It's in Jandar's study. Why?"
" Trust me." She said. " It's very important that you carry the big piece, very important."
" Enough with the prophesies." Atol said as the entered the first floor study and made themselves comfortable. Aramis poured brandy for the adults and wine for Ono and Shayn then sat down.
" How did the other mission go?" Aramis sipped his brandy." Jax, Alee and the others?"
" I'm fine and Cressca is no more." They heard from behind them.
" JAX!!" Aramis leaped up and hugged his brother. " I was worried about you red one."
" The god of justice will prevail." Jax smiled releasing his brother. " At least with the help of his friends."
Jax went and greeted and hugged Alea and Nestor then got himself some brandy and sat down. Ono stood in the front of his guest and told them what had been happening with everyone else.
" Jayce and the shadows with Ariel and Toric defeated Pelis and put him back in his confines in Tir Na," He explained. " Only now he's not in a zoo. He's in an enchanted cell in the old castle were he shouldn't escape again. "
" Bravosa is being cleaned of all the snow." He said looking at Alea. " Thanks to Alee and Nautica. Don't worry, Alee is fine. He defeated Kearn on his own. They should be back soon. Jax, as you can see helped save everyone in Azia and Cressca is no more. "
" Yes." Jax said. " It's dead at last. Cressca won't be bothering anyone ever again. But I didn't kill him. Athene did. She ran him through with Hazard.
" Selena's Blade?" Alea asked.
" Yes," He said. "I called out to her and she sent it to me."
" Where is it now?" Alea asked looking towards Ono.
" I put it in a safe place." Jax told her. " I can't let the wrong person get there hands on it. Could you imagine if she got it?"
All around the room heads shook in agreement. Muerte could not be allowed to get Hazard for she had the ability to use it. Not everyone did. That thought in mind, Atol remember something.
" Jax." He said. " Where is Athene and Lady Angela?"
" In Prafa. Why?"
" I think Alea needs to meet them." Atol looked at Alea remembering the day he met Angela and how much the two resembled each other/
" I think we have other things to discuss right now." Aramis said. " Like getting Muerte out of the underworld."
" I agree." Nestor nodded his head. " There has to be a way for me to get back down there and take back my realm."
" There is." Aramis said standing up. " What if you lead a rebellion of the souls down there against her? Would that help you reclaim your throne?"
" Yes." He said. " But I can't get down there to organize something like that. The minute I appear, She will know I'm there."
" Then it's a good thing we've already got things started for you." Aramis smiled. " You know Baron Valkar?"
" Of course I do." Nestor looked at Aramis confused. " He was the most evil vampires ever to exist. He turned and murdered thousands. Caused millions of deaths in his time. I've been punishing him since the day Azeal Tyr sent his soul on to me. What's he got to do with this?"
" He and Azeal Tyr have been working together to organize the underworld for your return."
" Are you serious?" Nestor asked. " Baron Valkar Zlenka? The first vampire did this for me?"
" The second vampire, dear." Alea corrected him. " She's the first. Muerte is the original source of vampirism, and that was my mistake. My curse on her. I never should have cursed her like that. Look what I did. I caused a whole race to be born out of my anger."
'" No Alea." Jax said. " They're a very proud race now. No longer curse to kill to live. You will meet some very special people once we can get them all together."
" Like me and my people." Ono spoke up. " If it wasn't for your curse, Jandar and I and my whole race would not exist. My people had a hard time at first being the slaves of the vampires, but we overcame that just like many other race's without curses did. So please don't blame yourself for what's happened. We are proud to be what we are. And speaking for Valkar of the vampires. So are they."
Alea with tears in her eyes looked around the room. She looked at Ono and saw the truth of his words in his eyes. His was a race caused by her actions and as far as she saw they were thriving, and so were the vampires. But Muerte was still out there and her corruption was spreading like wildfire. It was time to put an end to all her evil plans.
" So what do we do?" She asked.
" Nestor goes back to the underworld to reclaim it." Aramis told them all. " If he takes Hazzard with him I know she will either fight or run. I think she will run. She won't take a chance against Hazard. She knows what it can do. Once she's back on Keanna I will deal with her."
" And our clan?" Shayn asked.
" Don't worry." He said. " I'm sure she has something else up her sleeve, like Balthazar and those missing dragons. That's where the rest of you will come in. Ono, Shayn get in touch with Jandar and Rage and fill them in. Find Valkar and warn him, cause all hell is about to break loose."
" And what can I do?" Alea asked.
" Come with me to Prafa." Atoll said. " You can meet Athene and Angela."
" If you think it's important."
" And us?" Shayn asked.
" You both stay here." Aramis said. " Some of your clan will be coming back from their missions. Fill them in on what's happening and be ready. I'm sure we'll have surprises in store for us. Jax, I think one of us should stay here in just in case something happens"
" No!" He said. " I stay with you Aramis."
" Jax." Aramis put his hand on his brothers shoulder. " If Nestor's task goes well, Muerte will be free back in the world up here. There's no telling what she might do. I need you here."
" Where are you going? He asked.
" To see Father." Aramis said. " I need his advice."
Running down the stairs two at a time, Sting found the front door knocked in and bodies in the entryway. Usher seemed to have fought much harder then they thought. The three ran to the door and looked out. The house was ablaze in moonlight. Angela had said that all they had to do was to get in the light and they would be safe. None of them understood what she meant, but they leaped out into the light anyway. Off in the shadows they saw the warriors running towards them. As they hit the moonlight they were all knocked back. It looked like they had just hit a wall. As they entered the light, magic flowed all around them as it lifted them and took them away to safety. 
