Winters End. 57

The snow had stopped falling in Bravosa, but it was still freezing cold. There was no one moving in the deep snow but snowmen and there mounts. Kearn had created out of a large mound of snow left by an avalanche his own palace hollowed out by magic and his snow men. Inside he molded a beautiful Ice home for himself. A large entry hall complete with ice statues and ice walls with magnificent cold furniture. A frozen chandelier hung from the ceiling that sent off sparkling light from the almost invisible walls. Kearn's palace was the perfect place he thought to rule the world from once he was rid of his enemies. And first he would start with these dragons. That would make Muerte pleased enough for him to get close enough to put an end to her. He looked over to the corner and saw Clea dressed in a beautiful gown he had conjured for her. Over that she wore a full length fur coat to keep her warm until he was finished with her rescuers. Then he would take her and make her his. He wondered how long they would take to try and rescue her.The clouds over Bravosa had thinned out and the sun was trying to break its way through. Deep in the forest Rush and Geo were on a scent they had found back at the battle sight and were following it. They knew just what the scent was. It was there old masters. There was no mistaking that smell. Running quickly over the snow it didn't take them long to follow it to where the Kearn had taken the snow men. From being a large group of tree tops, the snowdogs watched. Walking along the front entrance they saw two snowmen briskly patrolling. Slowly they crept closer to the mound. Their white fur causing them to blend in with the blinding snow all around them. From inside Geo saw Clea sitting in Keans throne room with her head down. He tried to reach in with his mind to her, but Kearn had set up some kind of block that stopped his probe.
{ Found man's mate.} He sent to Rush. Rush made his way over to him and looked in. He could see she wasn't hurt but she was scared.
{ We stay and watch.} Rush sent as he settled down in the snow.
{ I tell Viggo what we see.}

Sitting on his throne of ice, Kearn watched Clea shiver in the cold. He smiled at her distress but he thought she was so beautiful. He stood and walked over to where she had sat down as far away from him as she could. He stood and looked down on her, then knelt to look her in her eyes." So beautiful." He smiled at her. She pulled away from his cold touch with disgust and spit in his face. Kearn reached up and brushed the frozen dust away.
" You don't like my touch?" He asked standing back up. He raised his hand and willed ice to start forming at her feet. She jumped up and tried as hard as she could to pull herself free from the floor. But the ice kept forming all around her. The entire corner she stood in was beginning to fill with ice.
" What are you doing?!" She screamed in horror. "Stop! Please, Stop!"
" Don't worry my sweet." Kearn smiled at her." It won't hurt. You'll just go to sleep. And if you wake up, well then things will be all different. You'll be my Queen with a frozen heart just like mine."
The ice had risen to her chest by then. It was getting harder for her to breathe. She couldn't move anything at all by then except her mouth.
" I'll never be your Queen." She said. " And my husband and the dragons will come for me and kill you when they find me dead. So enjoy you last hours you ice freak." Kearn laughed as the ice covered her head.
" Never say never,"
He walked over and tapped on the ice knowing for the moment she was still aware. He kissed the ice covering her face then turned and walked out of the room laughing.
" Snowmen, to me." He called. All around his palace they came running to his call. Once outside he found ten snowmen and there dogs waiting for him. He walked out to stand in front of them.
" We have work to do." He told his slaves. " I want the dragons here so I can destroy them. To do that , we must draw them out. That cave you found would but perfect."
He walked over to the snowman that had captured Clea. He stood straight for his master.
" You can find that cave again, right?"
" Yes master." He nodded his head.
" Good." As Kearn walked away from the snowman he waved his hand at a snow pile and ten more snowmen formed. He went over and placed his hand on each of there frozen chest and sent life into them one by one. With a gasp they took there first breathes and bowed to there god before them.
" We have people to kill." He smiled as he caused a cloud of snow to form around them and take them off to do his bidding.

Watching from the forest Rush and Geo sniffed for scents to see if any snowmen were still there. Neither dog could find a scent in the air. That meant Clea was all alone.
[ Stay.] Rush sent to his partner. [ Tell Viggo, I go see wo-man.]
Padding to the front entrance, Rush looked around to be sure there was no one around. He pasted through the entrance and followed his nose through corridors checking all the places Clea had been until he came to Kearns throne room. There he found her. Slowly the great dog made his way into the throne room and up to the wall of ice. There she was frozen deep in the wall of ice. Rush could detect no life coming from her frozen form but he could feel the magic still lingering all around her. Maybe there was still a chance he thought. Quickly he turned and bolted from the room and out of the mound. By the trees he found Geo waiting.
{ This bad.} He sent. {Wo-man in trouble. Get Alpha here fast.}
{ I call Viggo.} Geo nodded his agreement.

As the three dragons and Alee talked with Jona in the tower, they heard Viggo start howling outside. Everyone turned to Icicle wondering what was happening. They all ran for the wall to see what was wrong. Viggo and Runner bound back and forth in excitement. Icicle called them to him.
" What is it?" Icicle asked.
{ Wo-man stuck in ice place.} Viggo sent to them. { Ice man not there.}
" This is our chance to get her out." Jona said. " We have to go."
Suddenly Viggo started barking again and nudging Icicle.
{ Ice man at cave now. Mia see him.}
" Chuy is there all alone. " Blaze said. " He'll be killed with the whole town. Jona, you take Viggo and go free Clea. We'll deal with the cave. Alee, I hope you can handle Kearn."
" With a little sunlight at my back. I don't think he'll be a problem." Light shined in his eyes.
" You go see about the cave. Give me a little time to tan and I'll meet you there. "
Alee walked over to Jona and handed him something.
" Whats this?" Jona asked. He looked at the red stone in his hand. It had strange symbols carved into it.
" Just in case you have to move fast to get away from Kearn." The Sun god smiled at him. " Put it on Viggo's chest and send a spark of magic into it."
" What is it?" Jona asked again.
" You'll see." He said as he began to glow until there was nothing left of him but an orb.
" Hurry." Icicle called after Alee as he streaked through the wall. Nautica followed them to the wall. Blaze stopped and looked at her.
" I don't think we'll be needing you in this battle." He said. " Stay here."
" Why? I'm a fighting dragon just like you and Icicle."She said sternly. " I can hold my own in a fight."
" I know you can sister." Blaze explained. " But I won't let you get hurt."
" Blaze." She looked into his eyes. " All of you protect me like I'm some kind of frail crystal figure that will shatter if anyone touches me. I'm not. I can fight just as hard as any of you and maybe even harder. Ask Denner, he'll tell you."
" I'm just trying to protect you!" Blaze threw his hands up in desperation.
" I don't want you protection. " She put her hand on his face. " I want your trust. That's all."
" Blaze." Icicle stepped over to them. " She's right. She's as powerful as any of us and deserves to be treated with respect, not sheltered."
" Ok." He said. " I understand. But I still don't want you facing Kearn. You can go with Jona to help. Will that do?"
[ No it won't.] They heard Rage send to them. All three dragons jumped at his intrusion.[ Nautica is your sister and you will respect her wishes. And she's almost as immune to cold as Icicle is. You can use her help. Now stop arguing and get moving. People need your help. Do I make myself clear?]
[ Yes Sire.] Blaze answered.
[ All of you be careful. Kearn is no joke.] Rage sent. [ Get going!!]
[ Yes sire.] They all intoned and walked through the wall.
Outside Jona mounted up on Viggo and asked if he knew when Rush and Geo were.
{ Yes. We go?}
" In a second." He turned back to the dragons. " I'll call once we get there. Good luck."
" You to." Icicle called to him. " Bring her home safe!"
" We will." He patted Viggo's side. " Lets go!"
With that Viggo took off out across the snow plains to find Clea and bring her home.
" Sarah, we'll fly." Icicle said as he started to shift. [ You ride with Runner. Lets get going.]

Viggo followed Rush and Geo's mind trail through the ice and snow for more then an hour until they found the site of an avalanche. Viggo stopped and sniffed the air.
" Whats wrong?" Jona asked.
{Rush and Geo.} Viggo told him. { Something wrong. We hurry.}
Holding on tight Viggo took of running with all his speed around the mound. There they saw the two Snowdogs waiting outside of Kearns mound. Skidding to a halt, Jona jumped off and ran to the dogs.
" Where is she?" He asked.
{ We grieve,} Rush sent, then he threw back his head and howled. Viggo and Geo joined him.
" What the fuck happened!!" Jona screamed. " Where is she?"
{ Come.} Rush trotted off with Jona and Viggo following behind him. They went into the mound and brush led them to the throne room.
{ Here.} Rush laid down and whimpered. With Jona in front, he and Viggo entered and looked around. Everything was made of ice in here. It was freezing cold. There wasn't much furniture . Just Kearns throne and a table and two chairs. From the ceiling hung a beautiful crystal chandelier with snowflake crystals reflecting light. Jona looked towards the back and saw a ice wall. It looked strange, like the was something in it. Viggo's ears perked up. He had found Clea's scent and barked. Jona strained his eyes to look at the wall. But he couldn't tell what it was from there, so he walked forward. Jona walked right up to the wall but still couldn't tell what was in there. He reached up and wiped away the frost and to his surprise found his wife's frozen face staring back at him.
" NOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

A horrible stab of pain ripped though Icicles mind and almost knocked him out of the sky as they made there way to the thermal cave. Blaze looked back not see his cold brother riding in pain. He rushed back to see if he could help.
[What's wrong?] He asked.
[ Its Jona. Somethings wrong] Icicle shook his head.
[ What?] Blaze asked.
[ I don't know.] icicle told him.
[ Is he hurt?]
[ I don't know I said!] Icicle snapped as they hovered in the air. [ I'll call Viggo and see.]
[ Viggo!] He called out.
{ Yes Alpha?}
[ What's wrong with Jona. He's in pain.]
{ His mate.} He answered. { DEAD. In ice.}
[ Blaze. Clea's dead.]
[ How?] The fire dragon asked. [ What happened?]
[ Kearn froze her in ice killing her]
Tears ran down Icicles snout and formed frozen drops that fell to the ground.
[ Jona's going to need us.] Blaze sent. [ We can't go to him now, But Sarah, you can. I need you to trust me this time. Jona needs help. Go to him please.]
[ Runner and I are on our way.] She turned an headed off towards the mound.

Clouds filled the skies as two men guarded the front entrance to the thermal cave. They were bored and cold being up in the snow. There was at least two more hours left for them to be out there and the small fire they had burning wasn't doing much for them.
" I'm freezing." Rab told his companion shivering wrapped in his furs and blankets. " I want to go back inside."
" We can't."Garic said frustrated. " We have two more hours to go."
" We could just go inside the entrance. Its warmer in there."
" And what if those snowmen come back and we're not here watching?" Garic asked him." Then there's no one to warn the others. You want that on your head?"
" No." Rab said. " But I don't know how much more of this cold I can take."
" Then go on in and get warm. We can take turns." Rab smiled and turned towards the heat.
" Hey." Garic called. " Don't fall asleep."
" I won't."
Garic pulled his blanket tighter to him and looked out over the snowy fields. he was terribly cold to but he knew how important watch was. He had children in the cave and this was his only way to protect them from those frozen monsters out there. The reached down to heat his hands in the fire and thought he should put more wood on it before it died on him. He needed the little heat the fire gave off. Just around the corner there was a huge wood pile they had made to keep there sentries warm. He stepped away from the fire and turned the corner to gather a few logs. A blast of cold wind hit him immediately and he shivered as he bent to grab a few splits of wood. As Garic stood back up he saw a flash out of the corner of his eyes. He stepped back a little so the light from the fire would hamper his vision. Straining to see what was out there, Garic squinted his eyes. He saw shapes heading there way. Many of them. They were big, bigger then men. He knew they could only be snowmen coming for them. Dropping the wood, Garic ran back into the cave and found Rab on the ground sleeping. He grabbed him yelling.
" There coming." He said shaking his friend. " Get up now. We have to hurry!!"
Rab woke with a start with Garic shaking him. Quickly he got to his feet and ran after Garic. Running deeper into the cave Garic made his way to find Chuy who was helping heal the wounded from the last attack.
" Chuy!!" Garic called. " There coming!!"
" Get the men armed." Chuy ordered. " I want the woman and children in the back. I'll put up an illusion to hide them. Garic, I need someone watching the entrance so we know when there going to attack."
Out of the back carrying a small child, Kara and Kuan made there way over to Chuy. Kara reached up and tugged his sleeve.
" Master Chuy." She said. " You can't fight them all off by yourself."
" I have the men here to help." He said.
" Do you think that will be enough?" She looked up at him worried.
" Kara, I have help coming."
" Jona and Clea?" She asked.
" I don't know if they'll be here." He didn't want to tell her of Clea's abduction. That was information she really didn't need at the moment. Hopefully, Jona and the others could get her away from Kearn and back home.
" But Chuy." She said. " There here, and we're trapped in a cave with no way out."
" Calm yourself." Chuy stepped down from the platform he had been working on." We're not trapped. Theres a way out. But its not easy. It's only in case of emergency, and a last resort. So help me keep all these people safe. Get the woman and children to the back for me please."
" I'll do as you ask." They turned to leave. Chuy stopped Kuan.
" Kuan, I'm going to need your help too." He turned Kuan in a different direction. " I need you to join with Garic in organizing the men. I'll be in front with you using magic to help protect you."

From behind cover on the side of the cave, Mia and Tug watched Kearn's snowmen advance on the entrance with there mounts at there sides, Deep in there throats Mia and Tug began to growl there annoyance with the rest of the dogs still under snowman control. Mia reached out to there minds.
{ Brothers, sisters.} She sent to them. { Snowmen bad. Hurt us many times. Why you help them hurt? That not good. You not bad like snowmen. Help stop them. Be free like us. New Alpha, Not evil. Not hurt others. Come be free with us.}
Out on the snow field all the snowdogs stopped there advance on the cave. They looked at the snowmen in front of them and remember the beatings and the hunger from not being fed and being caged up. Outrage began to fill there hearts at there past treatment. Growling began to grow deep inside there chest. There eyes glowed with contempt for the snowmen.
{ They masters.} The lead dog sent back to her. { What we do?}
{ Fight snowmen with us.}
Looking back the snowmen noticed there dogs had stopped and were growling at nothing.
" Move!!"
One snowman reached out and struck his dog in the snout knocking him to the ground. Blood ran from his muzzle as the dog climbed back on his feet. All at once the great beast turned to the snowman and barred there sabre teeth at him. Shocked the snowman raised his hand to strike and teach the dog a lesson about there defiance.
{ Will dogs still follow snowmen?} Mia asked.
{ No! We hurt no more!}
Suddenly two dogs jumped on the snowman and forced him down ripping and tearing him apart. Pieces of his icy form flew as they dug into him as he was killed on his back.
" Stop!!" Kearn ordered.
With a wave of his hand he sent the dogs all flying towards the cave. Mia and Tug stepped out of the shadows and stood with the rest of the dogs as the climbed back to there feet. Ten snowdogs stood at the entrance of the cave now growling there defiance at there enemy.
{ Alpha. We protect cave. You hurry or we dead.} Tug sent out a message to Icicle as the snowmen came at them with raised weapons.
[ We'll be there in a minute.] He sent back. [ I'll have Chuy come out to help you.]
{ No!} Mia sent. { Him stay with people. We fight.}
Mia and Tug trotted out to the front of the line of fifteen snowdogs against twenty or more snowmen. They were joined by the other lead dog. His name was Pen. A large bold male with a dark streak across his chest and threatening eyes. Pen stood between Mia and Tug as they attacked. The first snowman swung his axe and Mia. She jumped aside and barrowed into him and slashed up with her long knife like teeth. She ripped off the arm he held his axe in the sent him to the ground biting into his neck.with a quick twist it snapped and he was dead. As another tried to launch itself at her, Pen stepped in and leaped on it. Roaring in its face causing powerful vibrations that shook the snowman until it shattered into a thousand pieces. All hell broke loose as the snowmen attacked. Several dogs were beaten and a few killed as they fought for there freedom. Kearn watched the combat as the two forces clashed. But as the snowmen had superior weapons, they seemed to be coming out on top. As the winter god watched, men came pouring out of the cave. All armed with swords and axes to join the fray. In the back of the group an elder grey haired men called out to the humans.
" The snowdogs fight with us.!" He said. " Destroyed the snowmen!!"
Kuan ran out and parried a blow meant for Mia and ran the snowmam through tearing his chest open. With a quick swing of her paw, Mia snapped its neck and slammed down her paw crushing its head.Thinking the fray was heading towards a win for the wrong side, Kearn called more snowmen from the snow. Sending his breathe towards his new recruits that came to life.
" There are your enemies!" He told them. " KILL!!"
From the snow, thirty more snowmen came running into the battle. Mia looked up and saw them. This was more then they could handle and she knew it. Alpha was there only chance now.{ ALPHA!!!}
Suddenly a gout of flame came from the sky and melted a snowman about to stab Tug with his blade.
" Here Mia!!"
Looking up Mia saw a great red dragon and Alpha coming out of the sky to join the battle. Blasts of flame and ice were sent at the snowmen melting and freezing snowmen. Icicles breathe was so cold the snowmen froze in place and all it took was a single blow to shatter them. Things had changed now and the snowmen were losing. Chuy in front of the cave sent bolt after bolt of energy at the snowmen blowing them apart. Mia and Tug went from one to the next with Pen tearing them apart while Kearn kept making more as they destroyed them.
" Pathetic Dragons." Kearn spat out at them. " You can't defeat me. I'm a god! Don't you understand!!"
A sudden flash of heat and light filled the sky making everyone shield there eyes, Over there heads glowing like the sun, Alee hovered in place looking down at them.
" I know who you are." Alee smiled. " And you defiantly don't scare me."

How They Fall. 56

Standing face to face across from each other, Jax and Cressca stared menecingly at each other with weapons ready. Behind them Sting, Athene and Angela arrived and were attacked by Cressca's guards. Adam grabbed one man with each claw and smashed them to the ground killing them quickly then moving on as another tried to stab him in his carapace. The spear bounced off and Sting kicked out at him knocking him into two other guards crushing them. Firing bolt after bolt of mystic energy, Angela advance into the courtyard followed by Athene in her wolf from.
" This is over Cressca." Jax called to him. " We turned the villages away from your hellish pyramid. You've failed your mistress."
" Not if I kill all of you." He strecthed out his wings and then pulled them tight against his back. With a horrid scream Cressca raised his spear and ran at Jax thrusting at his chest. Jax spun around and slashed at Cressca's back to cut into his wings. Cressca screamed in pain and bought his spear around and hit Jax in the face with the shaft. Jax stumbled back almost tripping on a dead guard. Seeing his chance, Cressca jumped into the air with his spear ready to impale Jax. Using his speed, Jax hurried out of the way and slashed out at Cressca's side as he passed leaving him with a deep cut in his side. With a quick criss cross slash Jax cut the membrane in Cressca's wings making them useless then kicked him in his back sending him face down into the dirt. As Jax stood over Cressca, he walked around the downed monster.
" You've killed thousands of the people here." Jax said as flame erupted all along the scimitar. " This ends now!"
Cressca rolled over onto his back and sneered up at Jax. " Go on! kill me! I'll be back in time!"
" Not this time you won't. See this blade?" Jax held out the flaming scimitar. " It was made for Serina, the goddess of war. All her weapons are spelled. You know what that mean? They kill immortals."
Cressca's eyes grew wide as it sunk in that this will be the final death if he loses. Scramblig to his feet Cressca spread his wings and tried to escape by air. But because of the damage to his wings, he couldn't get very high. Jax jumped up and grabbed his leg and threw him to the ground. As Cressca crashed to the ground he sent a blast of energy out into Jax's face blinding him and knocking him on his back blinded. Hazzard flew from his hand and off behind the two combatants.
" Well god of justice." Cressca laughed. " I guess I get to please my mistress after all. Thou I dont know how pleased she will be when I retreive your weapon and use it to make myself the new death god. With Nestor gone, once I kill Muerte. I'll stand un oppose in the underworld. Even Jandar and Rage won't be able to defeat me then!"
" Yes they will." Jax said rubbing his eyes, blinking to clear them. "Monsters are made to be destroyed. And thats all you really are. Nothing but a fucken monster! Your no god! You force people to whorship you so you can devour there lifeforce.You'll never take the underworld. They'll stop you!"
" You won't be there to see it." Cressca raised his spear for the killing blow and advanced on Jax.
" Good bye God of Justice!!"
With the a sinister smile on his face and the spear ready to be driven into Jax's chest. Cressca took a step forward and screamed as Athene drove Hazzard into his back from behind. From his eyes, mouth and the wound in his chest screams began to escape as all the souls Cressca devoured were released. Like ghost they flew from his body into the air to find peace atlast. Cressca screamed as he began to fade into nothing and Hazzard dropped from Athene's hands. Angela ran to her daughter and helped him put down the sword. Sting shifted back to Adam and went to help Jax up. They were silent as the took in the last few minutes.
" Cressca's dead." Jax said. " Atlast were through with him."
" Yes," Angela said. " We did it."
" Im exhausted." Jax smiled at them. The others came over and stood with him looking pleased.
" Theres one more thing to do." Athene said. " Bring down the rest of this pyramid. Jax?"
Jax reached out and took Hazzard from Athene and walked to the ruins. He raised the scimitar and bought it down and sliced through the rock pile. The ground began to tremble as he stepped back. Like a small earthquake the ground openned and the ruins began to fall in on itself. Soon there was nothing left but a large hole.
" I'll get Dreik to fill it in later." Jax said, " Lets go home."

High over Relos, Ariel met Jayce while they look for any traces of Toric or his father. She could feel the termoil going on inside of Toric. Battling his own father she was sure was not an easy thing to do.
" Have you seen any site of them?" Jayce asked.
[ No.] She answered. [ But I know there down there somewhere.]
" Whats that?" Jayce pointed off to the west where they saw something coming out of the trees. arirl looked where he was pointing. She saw a flock of all types of birds coming towards them.
[ I think were in for a fight.] She sent. [ Pelis sent them to slow us down so he can do with Toric what he wants to.]
" Its not going to work." Jayce told her. " I have a fast solution to that problem."
[ Then you better move fast. There almost here.]
[ Graym!] jayce sent. [ I have a problem here. Look up, See that flock? Its heading my way. Send your sunbirds to intercept them.]
[ We're on our way.] Graym sent back.
Out of the sun flecks of light quickly began to fly towards the mass of avians flapping there way towards Jayce and Ariel.
" Dive into the tress!!" Jayce told her.
[ No. I dont have time for this.]
Ariel called out with her powers to the wind. She made it grew stronger and stronger until there was a wall of air between them and the flock. There was no way the birds could pierce that wall. As they watched, the sunbirds caught up with the flock and tore into them. Feathers flew as they ripped them apart.
[ Those are some deadly little things arent they?]
" You should see what they do to vampires." Jayce smiled. " We should get to looking for Toric."
On the ground Pelic searched for Toric and Pelis. With a wave of his hand he parted foilage out of his way as he searched the area he was in. Hearing noise and growling he thought he had found the battle. So he rushed in. He was wrong, what he found instead was a clan of cave bears waiting for him. Pelic stopped where he stood. All the bears were snarling and slowly advancing on him.
" This isn't good."
Suddenly the lead bear leaped for him. Pelic thrust out his hand and repelled the bear sending it flying to land on his back. Without warning the rest of the clan attacked. Pelic harden his body to its absolute density as they tried to rip into him. He didn't want to hurt them, he knew Pelis was making them attack him.with another wave of his hand, he pushed them all back away from him. Once they were clear, he spread his arms and floated up out of there reach. Below him they all were belowing at him trying to reach him. As he sailed away they followed bellow him giving chase. A thought came to Pelis as he watch the bears leaping to grab him.
[ This is great.] He said to himself. [ If I find Toric, I'll lead these bears right there to help Pelis.]
[ Then take them somewhere they'll be safe.] Jayce told him. [ We'll find Toric then call you.]
[ I'll put them to sleep in there cave then find you all.]
[ Hurry.] Jayce sent. [ We may need you.]

Toric stood and watched as his father got to his feet towering over him. Pelis began to growl in raged as the beast took over him. With a mighty leap and his claws stretched out,Pelis came at his son. The look on his snarling face was horrible. Toric threw up his hands and put a force shield between him and his father, Pelis slammed into it then used his fist to beat on it trying to break through. thrusting out, Toric expanded the shield throwing him off. Like a cat, Pelis landed on his feet and rushed back. He summoned a powerball and slammed it into the shield causing it to crack. The strain of holding the shield together was painful on Toric. He didn't know how much longer he could stand the assault. Again and again Pelis bashed at the shield making it weaker and weaker. It wouldn't take many more hits before it fell and Toric was exposed.
[ Tory.] He heard in his mind. [ You have to hold on. Jayce and I will be there to help in a few minutes. Just hold on!]
[ I don't know if I can.] He sent back. [ I don't have much left to fight with.]
[ Toric, your a collector.] He heard in his mind. It wasn't Ariel this time but another voice. A familar voice. His mother.
[ I know you have never used your powers to siphon power before, but thats the only way. Siphon his power and use it against him. Do it now!]
The shield was almost destroyed and that would be his end if it fell. Could he do it? there was only one way to find out. Toric reached out with his mind to his father and slipped into his mind. What he saw there was a blazing core of power. He reached for it and made contact with his fathers center of magic. Power began filling into him, his spained akle healed and he felt stronger. His shield began to strengthen as Pelis's strikes became weaker.
[ What are you doing to me?] He backed away feeling his strength fading from his body.
[ Im doing what you've done to us for years.] Toric stood and drew more and more power from him.
[ No! Stop it right now! I order you to stop!! You can't do this to me. Im your father!]
[ Why not?] Toric yelled back at his him. [ Did you ever just once show a bit of mercy on anyone? Did you? You tortured your own wife for years! Not to mention all the others you killed!! Why should I spare you, you monster!!]
At that moment Ariel and Jayce landed near the pit. Ariel shifted and they ran over to them. Toric stood over the howling beast draining his lifeforce. Ariel reached out and touched his shoulder. Her love began to overcome his hate for his father
" Tory." She said. " Stop. You don't have to do this. Not this way. He's beatten."
" But he's hurt so many." Toric said. " He has to be stopped for good."
" And we have stopped him." Jayce said. " Look at him."
Toric looked down at the weakened form of his father on the ground whimpering his tongue hanging from his mouth. Toric released him and he whined. Ariel pulled him into her arms as he started to cry.
" He'll never hurt anyone again." She said as she soothed him. He looked up at her.
" Don't bet on that." He whispered to her. " He'll find a way. I know it."
" Then we'll be there to stop him." Ariel kissed him. " You and I."
" No." Jayce said. " All of us."

Ono sat up and rubbed his eyes then look to Shayn laying next to him sleeping with a smile on his face. He was dreaming. And Ono had seen the dream. Jax destroyed Cressca. that age old death god was dead was gone forever. And Pelis was under Toric and Jayce's control again. This would please Jandar and Rage. Some good news atlast. Ono moved over to Shayn and kissed his face and ran his hand across his chest. He rolled over and smile at him.
" There ok." He said as he pulled Ono down to him.
" Yeah they are." Ono kissed his lips and took him into his arms.
" You know I love you." Shayn pushed the hair from Ono's face to see his smile.
" You better." He said. " You know its not over."
" I know." He ran his hand down Ono's back pulling him even closer.
" But We're winning."
" So far we are." Ono kissed him again. " Dream us something nice this time."
" Why don't you help me." Shayn smiled and pulled the covers over there heads.
" You are my dream." Ono whispered kissing Shayns neck.

The Moon Goddess Rises. 55

The sun had dropped from the sky as Aramis and Atol waited for the moon to take its place in the heavens. Arturus came walking from the house and joined them.
" Its a beautiful night." He said.
" Yes." Atol smiled, " Nice and clear for what we plan."
" You sure shes up there?"
" I don't see anywhere else she can be." Aramis said. " It was clever of Muerte to hide her in plain sight like that."
" What do you think you'll find up there?"Arturus sat on a barrel beside the porch.
" Besides Alea and Nestor?" Aramis shrugged. " I'm sure she left something there in case we come looking to free them."
" Do you need and help?" Arturus asked. " This old dog is still pretty good with a sword."
" Thank you my friend. But you couldnt survive where we are going. And I need you here in Prafa looking after things." Aramis shook Arturus hand. " We'll be back soon. If theres any trouble. Call out to Ono and he'll get help here in a hurry ."
" We'll be fine." Arturus said as he got up to leave. " Go find your sister and don't worry about us."
Atol and Aramis watched him walk back towards the house then looked back up to see the moon shining brightly.
" Well, lets got on with this." Atol stood next to his brother as Aramis opened his arms to start the magic that would take them to there destination. A globe of light surrounded them until it was to bright for normal eyes. In a flash they took off into the night sky to rescue the moon goddess and her mate.

Hidden in there cave, Fiero, Arik and Maxius lay tortured by the pain growing stronger everyday in there head. Muertes touch was killing them slowly. Only Fiero had any sense of intelligence left. The others were just about reduced to savage beast from the pain. Fiero was finding it very hard to think. So they lay there and did what the sweet voice in there head told them. Deep in the back of his mind Fiero knew she, the bronze was responsible. But he couldn't help it anymore. All he wanted was relief from the pain. And she was the only one that could give him that. He roared out his pain hoping she would hear him and come help. But so far she hasn't. He rose in his dragon form and stumbled to the small lake in the cave for water and drank. It had a stagnant taste he thought, but drank any way. He looked over in the corner where Arik and Maxius lay trembling. He had to get them help if she wouldn't help them. If only he could remember. He knew there was someone in his mind that could help. He could almost see there faces. Fiero stumbled to the cave entrance and looked to the sky. The cool night air blowing across his scales felt good. He through back his head and roared out his frustration then shifted back to human and fell to the ground consciousness.

There was no air here. No water and no life. No plants grew and the sky was dark even during the day. Nothing moved on the surface of the moon until a flash of light left two tall handsome men standing in the middle of a great crater. Aramis had been to this crater before. It was where Alea built her home, her lunar palace. There it stood before them shining in the mid days sun light. It had Marble columns with a high ceiling. It looked like a lonely place. There wasn't much decoration or any type of furnishing to be seen from the outside un like Nestor's palace which had flowers and the love seats in the garden. Alea's palace had none of that. This was her place to be alone. For her and Nestor. Aramis had been inside and seen the lavish furnishing she she kept the. Godly palaces usually didn't have many rooms. They didnt need them. I place to rest, a study or library sometimes, and a workshop to work on whatever her tasks called for. Alea being the moon goddess and the goddess of vengeance she watch Keanna and all other races and helped grant vengeance to those that were wronged.
[ So this is her palace.] Atol thought to his brother. [ Its magnificent!]
[ Yes, Ive been here before with her and Nestor.] Aramis wave him closer as the began walking to the palace. [ She built this place to get away from all the battles and trouble on Keanna and on Fortis. You know how she loves quiet peaceful places. And as the moon goddess, what better place for her home to be. I cant believe I didn't this think of this place.]
[ Where here now." They stopped in front of the marble steps. Atol turned to take the first step up. Aramis grabbed him and pulled him back way from the stairs.
[ Don't.]
[ What is it?] Atol asked his brother.
[ We have to be careful here.] Aramis walked over and picked up a stone. He tossed it at the step. It moved slowly as gravity took it and sent to its destination. As it hit the stairs it burst in a flash and exploded. Atol stepped back surprised.
[ This whole place is probably has spells everywhere.] he told him.
[ So what do we do?]
[ We trend carefully.] Aramis waved his hand at the stairs.

[Straight and strong my steps will be.
Protect from harm so I can see.
What danger stands here in our way.
Show us the path so we wont stray.]

Magic flashed as they watched and a path showed them the way up the stairs. With Aramis in front Atol followed him up and into Alea's palace. As the walked through the bronze doors they slammed shut quietly behind them and a glow began to cover them. Atol went to reach for them to open the doors.
[ No!] Aramis sent. [ There spelled. We'll have to find another way out.]
[ You sure she's here?] Atol asked joining his brother.
[ She's here.] He said. [ I can feel them.]
Together Aramis and Atol followed the path into the the entry chamber. There were statues in the hall depicting different heroes of past ages. Human and other races. There was a statue of Azeal Tyr with a sword in hand striking down Baron Valkar. There also were paintings of scenes for the werewolf/vampire war. Aramis and Atol knew what all the paintings and statues were so the walked on. The path lead on to Alea's study. all around them areas glowed with power. There were spells everywhere. Muerte wanted to make sure Alea couldn't get out. As they walked Aramis saw something that made him stop. Atol almost ran into him.
[ Why are you stopping?]
Aramis pointed over to the corner where both Alea and Nestor stood motionless. Alea with a look of pain and surprise on her face. And nestor reaching for her. All around them the floor glowed with power. Aramis and Atol couldn't get anywhere near them. They both could feel there sisters presence. She knew they were there with them. Aramis try sending to her.
[ Alea! Can you hear me?]
[ . . . . . . . . . ]
There was something they, they could feel her. Aramis stopped and looked deeply at the spell glowing on the for. It definitely was Muerte's magic. He could remember her touch now and the feel of her magic. And he could feeol it all around him now. Alea and Nestor's magic could be felt to, but hers seemed a bit stronger. Her spell was woven all through the palace. Aramis knew if he dismantled the wrong part first, he could destroy them all. So he looked deeper. The rich red currents of her spell told him it was meant to hold some there and immobilize it. She knew Alea and Nestor would keep fighting the spell from the inside. It was made to use there magic to strength itself.
[ I see something here.] Aramis turned to Atol.
[ What is it?]
[ If we all pour power into this spell.] He said. [ We may be able to overload it, then i can use her own spell to free them. But its going to take all four of us.]
[ Agreed.] Atol came closer to where Aramis stood. [ How do you want to start?]
Aramis thought for a second. Atol's powers are more emotional and mental maybe he can reach her better the me.
[ Try calling her.] He told him. [ Like went you freed my memories. That may get through to them.]
[ I can't touch them, so I need to see into her eyes.] Atol said walking around until he could look into Alea's eyes.[ This will do. Take my hand and stare into Nestor's eyes. I'll try to take us in.]
Staring deeply into Alea's eyes Atol saw her spark. He called out to her mind. He could feel Aramis entering into Nestor's mind. A whisper floated around all there minds quietly as Atol pushed in to go deeper and deeper, calling to her. the whisper began to grow louder and louder. Soon he could faintly hear it. Atol pushed harder, he was almost there. Then he heard her.
[Atol!!!!!!]
[ It me sister.] He told her. [ Vitale is with me.]
[ Help us!!]
[ We need you and Nestor to blast the spell holding you as hard as you can.] he sent to them. [ We will be blasting from out here. Vitale thinks it will work. Start now!]
Atol dropped Aramis hand and raised his hand, together the sent all there energy into the spell pushing it as hard as they could. It burned brighter and brighter until it throbbed with power. Then aramis chanted Muerte's spell with his own little twist.

MOONLIGHT SHINES DOWN ON US ALL.
AS THE LADY RIDES HER COURSE.
FREE NOW TO WALK NOT FALL.
NOR TO FEEL REMORSE.
I FREE YOU FROM YOUR LUNAR CELL.
AND BRING YOU BACK YOUR LIGHT.
SO RISE MY SISTER FROM THE HELL.
TO WALK AGAIN THIS NIGHT.
Using his magic sight, Aramis watched as the spell began to burst in explosions all over the palace. Both Nestor and Alea fall to the floor exhausted. Aramis went forward and pulled Alea into his arms. and picked her up. Columns began to fall as the spell started taking the palace down. Atol grabbed Nestor and pulled him through the palace after Aramis. They reached the front entry went a part of the roof fell and crashed into the statues. Alea thrust her hand out and commanded the doors to open. As the bronze doors opened, Aramis and Atol ran out carried the couple to safety. There they watched as the rest of the palace fell to the ground.
[ Vitale?]
[ Yes Alea. its me. I'm here. Can you stand?] He asked.
[ Nestor? Where is he?]
[ I'm here Lea.] Her husband sent reassuring her.
[ I'm ok to.] Atol smiled.
[ Thank you both.] She smiled up at Aramis. [ We would have been there forever had you not found us.]
[ We're sorry it took so long.] Aramis said as he helped her to stand.
[ Thats ok.] She said. [ I'm just glad you thought to look up here.]
[ I didn't.] He told her.
[ Then who?] Nestor asked. He looked completely confused. [ Alee?]
[ Jax.] Atol said. [ He figured you were still up there at night, so that was where you must be trapped.]
[ What about Muerte?] Nestor asked. [ She holds the underworld now. I have a score to settle with her.]
[ So do I.] Alea brushed off her gown then looked up at Aramis. [ Don't try to save her this time. She's gone to far Vitale.]
[ I know.] He said. [ And call me Aramis please.]
[ What?] Alea looked at him not understanding.
[ We have a lot to tell you. Lets get back to Keanna.]
With a wave of his hand the shining globe appeared and took them back to the beautiful world riding above them

Lying at the cave entrance in a puddle of water, Fiero woke up. His head was still spinning in horrible pain . He looked up and felt rain falling on his face. it felt good, it cooled him off a bit. As a fire dragon he was usually hot, but he knew he had a fever. Fiero looked around wondering where he was. He was at the bronzes cave with his brothers and she wasn't here. He knew what that meant, he had a chance to get them away if he could. He got to his feet and stumbled into the dark cave. Over in the corner he saw Arik and Maxius moaning in there sleep. He walked over to them and touched each one in the center of there forehead. Arik's eyes opened with a dazed look. Maxius woke a second later.
" Rise brothers.' He said. " We have to leave this place now."
Arik focused of his face and recognized him. He closed his eyes ans shifted.
" GO?" He groaned sitting up.
"Yes, Come on." Fiero pulled him to his feet and leaned him against the wall.
" Max, get up now."
Maxius shifted still sprawled on the cave floor. Fiero bent and helped him up. Once they both were on there feet, he put his arm around each of the waist and led them towards the entrance. Once outside the rain and weather strengthened them both a little and cleared there minds a bit so they could almost think without pain.
" We have to go brothers." Fiero told them. " Shes not our friend. She's the one that did this to us."
" Arik, can you fly? He asked.
" No." He answered. " To weak."
" Then get on my back and I'll do the flying." Fiero let them go and stepped over and shifted.
[ Climb on,] Arik climbed up on Fiero's back behind his wings. Maxius was to weak to climb. He fell back to the ground. Fiero reached over and grabbed him and pushed him up his back. Arik grabbed him and pulled him up to sit in front of him.
[ Hold on to him.] Fiero unfolded his wings and ran and took off into the sky. Higher and higher he flew not caring where he was going as long as it was away from her. The sun was rising and it felt good Fiero thought. They were away! They were away from her!!

" I don't like this Father." Azeal said as they crept along a ridge over Balthazar's castle. " Giving ourselves over to him?"
" We're not giving ourselves to him." Valker told his son. " We just need to get into his castle to see what he plans."
" How?"
" Cutter can keep him and I hidden so we can get a look around." Valkar looked out over the ridge down to the castle.
" No." Azeal said pulling him down. " You can't go. What if something goes wrong? You'll be in his hands again. We can't take that chance. I'll go."
" I can't let you do the Azeal." valkar told him
" He's right Valkar." Cutter said. " You can't take that chance. Its to dangerous."
" Am I not king here?" Valkar asked.
" Yes you are." Cutter said. " But I hope you take our council in this and stay here."
" Fine." He said. " You will keep in contact with me won't you?"
" Once we're inside we won't be able to send to you." Cutter told him." He might sense it."
" Then forget it." Valkar walked back towards the trees." I won't let Azeal take that chance."
" Then what do you propose?" Azeal and Cutter stood there looking at him.
[ Baron, We need your help.]

High over the mountains our dragons flew looking for Valens missing brothers. Jandar on Rage's back in the lead with Denner and Kalin following close behind. Next riding comfortably on a huge boulder with Jade came Dreik. In the rear Valen watched there backs in case anything decided to attack them.
[ Valen, can you find them?] Jandar sent to him.
[ Yes I can.] He sent back. [ There flying west away from us.]
[ Can we catch them?] Jandar asked.
[ There not moving every fast. They must be very weak I can barely feel Arik and Maxius.]
[ I'm worried about them Valen.] Jade sent. Valen could feel her anguish through there link. She was the caretaker of there clan. Like a mother dragon she cared for them all. Jade could usually sense of contact them all at anytime. Valen knew if she couldn't get them. No one could.
[ I know Jade.] He sent. [ Keep trying. As we get closer you should have a better chance.]
[ I have people looking for them.] Rage sent. [ If anyone spots them, they'll contact us. It shouldn't take to long.]

Things were stranger then usual in the underworld. There was no heaven any more, Muerte had change everything in the realm. No more calm beautiful fields or gleaming palaces. Everything was dark and gloomy now. It seemed that was how she wanted her world to be.
She sat in Nestors palace and did something Nestor would never do. She destroyed spirits to amuse herself. Everyone could her the tortured echoing through the realm. It seemed no one was safe from her.
Azeal Tyr gathered as many spirits of warriors as he could find. Millions gathered to his call at an old mansion in what was once heaven. From a raised platform he looked out at them ready to address his army.
" As you all know, Nestor no longer resides in his great hall of judgement." He said. " We have a new mistress now and shes quite insane. What she plans is for our descendants is unthinkable. She plans to kill everyone one Keanna."He stopped to let his words sink in and see what there reaction was. From where he was, he could hear them all grumbling and calling out questions about her plans.
" Quiet now!" He shouted. Slowly they settled down a bit and waited for him to continue.
" Now it's all up to you what you want to do. We can ignore it all and hope for the best or we the dead of Keanna can do everything we can to save our children. I don't know about you, I'll be damned if I'll let everything I fought for be destroyed by a mad goddess who cares for nothing but death. I have word that someone in the living world is trying to free Nestor and bring him back to us. So we need to find a way to keep her busy until Nestor can get back. The only thing I know to do is attack her while Nestor returns. Are you with me?"
Cheers went up through out the crowd. Azeal wasn't afraid anyone would go report him to Muerte. She doesn't take news like that well. She'd probably kill the messenger.
" I'll be sending people out among you to organize our attack." He told them. " Be ready when I give the word."

Keanna Fights Back. 54

Deep in the caves of Keanna a proud god sat and watched the dragons as they waited for Jandar to return. Dirod had fought hard against Muerte in there personnel fight and while in her prison. He had vowed that she would not win, even if it meant his death. The compulsion she put on him barely affected him. He had no plan on running and he knew he would never do as she told him. Capturing the first dragons was easy. Some of Gannon's spell had been buried for a long time and he had known where they were. He had even read some of them so he decided to use them.
After Muerte released him he went directly to the Keanna mountains. There he found a little peace and gathered his powers. He knew he had to do something. She had defeated him once and given him her gift. Being still in her power just a bit, she could do it again. As he sat on the mountain, he saw the dragons fly over head.
[ Maybe they could be my answer.]
It didn't take him long to find the cave they were resting in. As he walked around the two dragons, he noticed one was an earth dragon. Maybe if he heighten her powers she would be strong enough to go against Muerte. He probed her mind and body to find out that her name was Jade, and that she was very old. To old to hold his energy. The other one was even older and more powerful. Neither of these dragons would do. But in there minds he saw other dragon. Maybe one of them could better control his earth powers. He remembered one of Gannons spells he had read. It was on controlling powerful beings. If he held these dragons, others would come looking for them, then he might discover the one he needed.

FROM NORTH AND SOUTH TO EAST AND WEST.
LET TIME AND SPACE GRANT MY REQUEST.
I CAST THIS SPELL TO HOLD THEM HERE.
TILL OTHERS COME WITHOUT ANY FEAR.
TO BRING THE ONE FOR WHOM I SEEK.
THESE DRAGONS SLEEP WITHIN THIS PEAK.

Dirod knew this spell would keep them asleep for as long as it took to get the other dragons there, He just hoped they would come before it was to late.

In a flash of light Jandar, Kalin and Texa appeared in the cave startling the rest of the dragons. Kalin stumbling down dazed from Jandar's transport. He had traveled like that before many time. the different was that all mages magic had different effects. Jandar being so powerful, his magic caused strong disorientation the first time someone experienced it. Texa reached out to steady Kalin and help him walk. It didn't take long for him to get his wits back. Jandar walked down to Rage and smiled it him.
" Hows everything at home? "
" Ono and Shayn have things well in hand." He said. " But we should have a talk with them."
" Whats that mean?" Rage asked.
" Well you know Cressca's back."
Rage turned to him. Memories of there fight with Cressca at the pyramid came back to him. Jandar was almost killed when the thing collapsed. Jandar could see Rage was getting upset. The fire in his eyes was beginning to rage,
" What else?" He asked him.
" Pelis is free." Jandar told him. " And he's joined with Muerte. It seems shes made him much more powerful."
" We have to get home." Rage walked out to the two dragons being examined by Kalin.
" You have to hurry." He said.
" Do you trust Shayn and Ono?" Jandar asked pulling him back. Rage opened his mouth yo answer. Jandar stopped him. " We have to trust them to do things there way when there in charge at home. We cant second guess them or look over there shoulder. Or they'll never feel we trust them."
" Your right." All the anger drained out of Rages eyes. " Lets do our job and get home. I want to hear whats going on."
" You'll be proud of them." Jandar said. " Trust me."
" I do."
Together they walked over to the still forms of Valen and Jade. Texa stood between them with her hands held out concentrating.
" This is one of my masters spell." She said.
" Can you break it?" Denner asked.
" I don't think I'll have to." She said. As she finished her sentence the ground began to rumble and shake. Rocks and dust began to fall from the ceiling all around them as they all tried to keep on there feet.
" DREIK!!" Rage shouted. " Whats going on?"
" Its not me!!" He said.
" Is there anything you can do about it?" Jandar asked clutching on to Rage." I'll try." Dreik called over a boulder to him and climbed on. He raised it about five foot of the ground then closed his eyes and reached out with his earth powers to see if he could stabilize the cave. Sending out probes, Dreik looked through the earth for vibrations that could cause the tremors. He found nothing. He searched deeper and sent his probes further and further into the earth. Suddenly he felt a presence. a very powerful presence. It was coming closer to them.
" Somethings coming." He said opening his eyes.
Behind the forms of the petrified dragons the ground cracked open and smoke and steam began to shoot up into the air. From the hole, a short muscular bald man dressed in a grey tunic and pants rose slowly to the surface.
Dreiks boulder moved over to Jandar and Rage as they all stood wide eyed watching. As he reached the surface the tremors stopped and those on the ground stood up.
" Greetings." The bald man said looking at Dreik.
" Are you the one responsible for this?" Jandar asked pointing to the dragons.
" Yes I am." He said.
"Why?" Rage asked. Smoke beginning to litely rise from his head. " What have they done to you?"
" Muerte sent me to kill as many of you as I can." He said.Floating forward from the opening in the ground.
"Here we go again." Denner frowned.
" Don't worry." He told them. " I'll never follow her. She's my enemy to. I'm Dirod, the mountain god."
Dreik's eyes flared. Dirod was one of the major dwarven gods. His people had built altars and prayed to him all through there history. He himself had prayed many times for success in his mine, but he never got an answer. Now here he was right in front of him.
" I gather you can restore them?" Jandar said.
" No, but I can release them so he can," He pointed at Kalin. " Greetings kin of Gannon."
Kalin bowed to Dirod as did Texa. Dirod walked over to Valen and Jade and spoke in there ear. There was no obvious change that they could see, but Texa saw it.
" I can bring them up of it now." She said
" Why are you here?" Rage asked.
" Because I'm dying." Dirod said. " Muerte has drain my life forces to the point that there's nothing I can do to stop it. Usually these mountains and the earth keeps me alive. But that witch has done something to me. Her gift she calls it."
" We've heard about her gift." Jandar said. " Its death. maybe there's something we can do. We have sources that could help. Maybe Gannon had a spell that could help."
They turned to Kalin and Texa. They had moved over to Valen and Jade and had heard them. Texa 's eyes for a second went blank as she searched for anything that might help. It wasn't long before she came back to them.
" I have many spells." She said." I might have something we can use."
" It doesn't really matter." Dirod told them. " It would only hold things off and give me more time. What I want is to pass on my power and have my revenge on her."
" How can we help." Rage asked.
" You can't. But he can." He pointed to Dreik.
Dreik looked at them puzzled. How could he possibly help a god.?
" I know you thought I wasn't listening to your prayers Dreik." He said. " But the mines weren't the place for you. If I had granted you wish, you would still be there. Gaia would never have been yours. I saw something in you that was much better the riches from a mine. I saw the dragon you would become and I wouldn't hold that from you. Now I'm asking you to take even more on."
" I'll be a god?" He asked.
" No. Even I can't grant that." Dirod smiled at him. " But you'll be the most powerful earth dragon ever. It would help destroy Muerte. A battle I'm to weak to win. But maybe you can."
" Not maybe. " Rage told him. " We have to. We have no choice. There's far to much to lose."
" If I except." Dreik asked. " What of you? What happens to you?"
Dirod looked at Dreik and the rest of the dragons and there friends with proud eyes. He knew they knew the answer to that question. But didn't really want to answer.
" I go peacefully knowing you will avenge my death." he said.
" But you heard Texa. We may be able to help you." The earth dragon pleaded with him. " You don't have to die."
" Dreik." He said resting his hand on his shoulder. " Muerte will be coming after me once she figures out I disobeyed her."
" Then come with us." He said. " We can protect you from her."
" NO!!" Dirod said. " Your time to fight her will come. But your not ready yet for that fight. I implore you all to do as I ask and leave me to deal with her my way. Trust me Dreik."
" Dreik." Rage bent to talk to him. " We have to honor his wishes and let him go."
" But we can save him!" Dreik was upset.
" You have saved me." Dirod told him. " Take my hand."
Dreik reached out and placed his hand in Dirods. His hand felt much warmer then any other hand he had shook before. He could feel the power flowing into him. It felt good. He looked up at Dirods closed eyes wishing he could change his mind. But he knew Rage was right, He had to honor his wishes. as the power flowed into him, Dirod began to fade from there view.
" Thank you all." They heard. " Now take your friends and go. Leave me to deal with her my way. "
[ Thank you Dreik. Use my powers wisely.]
" Whats going on here?" They heard.
Dreik, Jandar, and Rage turned to see Valen and Jade looking at them in there human forms. Texa had freed them from there hibernation.
" Just saying good bye to a friend." Rage said

Deep in the dungeons of his island castle, Balthazar worked on his new army of warriors. Table after table of men transformed into monsters with claws and stinger and other weapons added to there bodies.With dulled minds to make them more compliant to there masters orders. Once finished he looked on his work proudly. He was ready to battle anyone including Muerte for domination of Yadessa and the world. He had two more important jobs to do. One was to finish Valkar and his son for the rule of Yadessa. The other was to capture his family. His wife, daughter, son, and lastly his brother and punish them for there betrayal. Balthazar knew Valkar and Azeal were now in Vasagi evacuating as many people as he could. That city was in ruins. He knew they were being sent to Tir Na for there protection.
" Good." He said out loud. He could deal with the werewolves as well. Turning and walking out from the dungeon with his personnel warrior following him, Balthazar headed for his study. It was time to set his plans to work. After entering his study he called for one of his aids. A young daywalker came in and bowed to him.
" You called my lord?" he said with his head down.
" Valkar and his son Azeal is in Vasag." He said as he sat at his desk. " I want them brought to me. Take as many men as you need. But find them."
" As you command." He backed out never making eye contact with Balthazar and went to gather the men he needed to find there former king.

" Father every ones out of the city." Azeal said entering the ruined house Valkar used to direct his covert actions in Vasagi. Around him stood his few surviving friends and Cutter.
" I think we should attack the castle." Tovar told them. " Balthazar has been hiding in his castle preparing for what he calls the attack. I think we should turn the stakes on him."
" That's not what we promised him." Cutter said.
" The hell with that." A vampire dressed it ragged regal clothing said. His name was Cort. He had been a member of Valkar's council." Balthazar has treated our people like vermin. Made them do things that may that us back centuries. We need to stop him now before its to late."
" I read your fear Cort." Cutter told him staring into his eyes. " But a king has to keep his promises and vows."
" Even if they bring harm to his people?" Cort stormed at Cutter.
" Wait." Azeal stood and stepped between them. " We're here to help stop Yadessa from coming under anymore dragon attacks. We have to fight along with Balthazar right now."
" That's right." Cort shouted back pointing at Cutter. " Dragons did this. Your kind. Maybe your all responsible for this. How do we know your not?"
" Silence!!" Valkar stood and shouted. " These are my friends, and you will show them the respect you show me. Is that clear?"
" Yes your Highness." Cort bowed to him. " My apologies."
" Apologize to him, not me. You insulted him."
" My apologies Sir Cutter." Cort said holding out his hand."These are trying days."
" I accept your apology." Cutter shook his hand. " What are we going to do?"
Everyone looked to Valkar. He was there leader and it was his decision. Valkar stood and thought for a moment.
" The dragons will be back and I hope Jandar and Rage make it back first. Cutter, is there any way you can distract them?"
" If I can sense what they fear, I can maybe control them for a while. But it wont be long." Cutter told them. " These are very ancient and powerful dragons. I'll have to see whats in there heads. Then I'll know."
" How close will you have to be?" Azeal asked.
" Less then 100 yards to get a clear picture. and to tell which is which." He said. " If I use the wrong fear on the wrong dragon, all will me lost. It'll just get them mad."
" What happens when we have them?" Cort asked. " We destroy them?"
" NO!!" Valkar said. " These dragon aren't attacking on there own. Muerte is behind this. If Cutter can sever her attachment to them, they'll be free again. Then they can lead us to her."
Cutter and Azeal looked at Valkar with shock. Valkar hadn't mentioned this before. There way no way the three of them could even hope to battle her and live.
" Father." Azeal said. " I don't think we can attack her."
" Azeal, I know how powerful she is. We wont be attacking along." He put his hand on his sons shoulder. " By then hopefully the rest of the dragons will be here to help. But for now, I think we should keep our eyes on the castle and our foe."

Opening his eyes, Valen looked around to see where he was. He couldn't remember a thing that happened in the recent past. His dreams weren't even there for him to remember and that was so un dragon like. Around him he saw Jade just waking and Rages clan. What were they doing here? And where were the others of his clan?Valen stretched his dragon limbs then stood and shifted to his gypsy form and walked out to meet Rage and Jandar.
" Rage, Jandar. Where am I?" Valen asked. " What are we doing here?"
" What's the last thing you remember?" Rage asked.
" Jade and I were looking for somewhere to rest." He said. " Then every things blank."
" What about before that?" Jandar asked.
Valen opened his mouth to answer but nothing came out. He didn't remember. Jade walked over with Denner beside her. She was a slim green haired woman with almond shaped eyes. She wore a long green cheongsam with embroidered flowers and ivy along the side. She looked very delicate but Jandar knew she was a dragon. An ancient dragon and very powerful.
" Where are the others?" She asked Valen.
" I dont know." He looked at her a little dazed.
" Do you remember Muerte?" Dreik asked.
Suddenly memories flooded back into Valen and Jades minds. Scenes of the cave they left the others in. Being chased by the others under Muerte's control. How she had taken there minds to use as she wanted.The pain that Fiero, Arik, and Maxius had to endure. Even from how far away they were, Valen and Jade could feel there pain.They knew they didn't have much time if they wanted to save his brothers.
" We have to get to the others." Jade said. " She's killing them with her control. There dreams are so full of pain."
" That's why we're here." Rage said as the all turned to the exit. " There's a lot we must tell you."
As they all walked out of the cave and up the exit ramp, something called to Dreik. From deep in his mind Dreik heard Dirod for the last time.
[ Remember me and tell others about me. Good Bye Dreik.]

Icicle and the Snowdogs. 53

The snow in Orton had climbed to over ten feet, with snow drifts that covering the town and everything else. No crops survived, the livestock on the farms all froze to death. And any people that hadn't make it to proper shelter, froze wherever they were. But in the caves, those that made it there were safe, so far. But for how long? Outside strange noises could be heard. The howling of something strange. No one knew what it was, they had never heard it before. Everyone huddled by the fires quietly and listened.
" I don't think that was a wolf." One man said to the people in his group as they sat by a lava pit. " It's to deep."
" What could it be?" His wife asked with fear in her eyes.
" Whatever it is, its big." He said.
" What should we do?" asked another. " Someone should go out and look."
" No!" The first man said. " We should stay right here where its safe."
" This isn't safe." A woman stood.
" We're not freezing. We have food and drink." The first man said. " This is safe. Unless someone goes out there and brings it back in here."
" How long do we stay here?" The woman asks. " I hate it here."
" Would you rather be out in the cold with your family?" Kara asked as she walks over and joins them. " And whatever that is howling?"
" We could defend ourselves." The woman's husband said getting to his feet. He walked over to his belongings and pulled out a sword and held it up.
" And what do you plan to use that on?" Kara asked " The wind? the snow? If you leave, will it keep you warm? And how are you going to get out? The cave opening is covered now."
People began to gather around them to see what all the arguing was about.
" Listen to me all of you." Kara said sternly. " We're in real trouble here. Its the middle of summer and ice and snow cover all our homes and land. Do you think this is natural? Of course not. Bravosa is under attack from something magical."
" Well maybe your friends in the tower did this." The man stormed." How do we know they're not responsible."
" Cause I trust them." She said. " Whoever s attacking us, Chuy and Jona are our only hope. Haven't they kept us safe in the past? When we were invaded ten years ago, who stopped the legions of Ashonti from taking us all as slaves? Chuy and Jona. Who held off the last hurricane and the tidal wave from flooding Orton? They did! We have to trust them again."
Many of them knew she was right. Chuy and Jona had saved them before and there was no reason to think they couldn't do it again. They owed them there lives and there trust.
" Kara's right ." The farmer said. " I'll trust them. When my wife took sick, Clea and Jona sat with her and cured her. I owe them everything, so I stand with them."
" So do I." another shouted.
" And I."
Many called out there agreement. Kara smiled and hugged the farmer for his help. Then out of nowhere came another howl sending fear through all of them.
" Quickly." The farmer said. " Everyone with weapons gather them. We may have to protect ourselves."

Not much of Orton could be seen with all the snow covering it. Only the tops of houses and large building could be identified. Many homes had collapsed under the weight of the snow on there roofs. On padded feet, Snowdogs carrying snowmen roamed through what was left of Orton. Nothing moved except the Snowdogs and there masters. They where searching for something to bring Kearn. Something important.
Outside of Clea and Jona's house they caught a scent. It was the scent of a woman and strong magic. The snowmen thought this was what Kearn wanted so they ordered the dogs to follow the scent. Following behind the dogs they let them loose to track the scent through the town. Running on there webbed paws, the dogs sniffed there way from house to house until they reached the edge of town and saw the tower in front of them. Spreading out the snowmen surrounded the tower but stayed out of sight. There they waited. One of them had to go check the tower to find a way in. Slowly the lone snowmen crept to the tower and walked around it. He could find no doors or windows in the structure. But he could feel the magic energy emanating from it. So he walked back and joined the others. There they sent a message to Kearn. He ordered them to stay there and watch the tower and wait for anyone to exit. Then to bring them to him. So they did as they were told and waited.

The sun blazed down in Prafa and warmed the city as Atol sat on the wall and watched the vampires work to repair the damage done by the recent attacks. He and Aramis had decided to stay there and wait for a while until all these attacks Muerte had orchestrated where over. They knew how important some of these people actually were to Keanna and the rest of the world. There were future kings and queens among them and some very wise people that would do the world a lot of good now and in the future. Atol knew how important it was to keep them safe.
As he watched, Aramis joined him on the wall. He came and sat beside him.
" Brother." He said. " What's on your mind?"
" All of this." Atol told him. " Did you know what would happen when you created all these different types of people?"
" No." Aramis smiled." I saw good in most of them and evil in some. I hoped they all would have positive futures and some have way beyond my expectations."
" The Dragons?" He asked.
" Yes, my protector." He said. " I gave them the choice of good and evil and they made me proud."
" What about these vampires?" Atol asked.
" They were created my Muerte." He said. " She wanted them to destroy my work and it was working. But without any help from me or her, they changed. They saw life as a greater thing then death. That's what lifted there curse, there blood lust, there arrogance and made them a better people. Now both werewolves and vampires are fit to live with humans whom they once used as prey."
" And now she wants to end them all." Atol looked down at the vampire human town.
" But we won't let that happen, will we God of love?" Aramis put his arm around his shoulder.
" No." Atol said. " We can't let her win."
" Come with me." Aramis said as he stood. " It's time for our mission."
" What are you planning?" He asked.
" To do what Jax suggested." Aramis pointed up to the sky. There they saw the moon riding dimly but steadily. " We're going to find Alea and Nestor and free them."

From her throne in the underworld, Muerte sat and watch the goings on of all her minions. Things were not going good. Cressca had failed to rid Azia of its residents. They were all free now and he was battling her brother Jax. She saw Pelis had destroyed Relos but instead of moving on, he was fighting the dragons. Only Kearn looked to have success. He had frozen a whole continent and sent her many new souls. But she also knew what he had planned. To keep Bravosa for himself. He was wasting his time. She planned for all to die, snowmen to. There was no safe place from her. Dirod had yet to start his mission. All he'd done was capture the first dragon. It was time she made her move. Time she went back and began to spread her gift over the world. And not even Vitale could stop her.

" I've stopped the snow from falling." Alee told everyone in the tower. " But its still freezing out there. If I try to melt the snow, there all be flooding everywhere."
" Then everyone in the caves will drown." Clea said. " We can't do that. There has to be another way."
" I know of only one thing to do." Blink told them. " Nautica controls water. She might be able to channel it all to the sea."
" That might work." Alee said. " But he's still out there and we'd have to be exposed in order to work."
" We can protect you." Icicle said. " The four of us."
" And me." Jona stepped up.
" No." Chuy said. " You and Clea should go to the caves. Everyone there must be scared witless. We have to provide our people protection too."
" From what?" Jona asked.
" You think this Kearn is going to just let us undo what he's done?" Chuy asked his apprentice. " He's going to try and attack. And we don't know where. What if he finds the caves? He'll use all those people in someway against us."
" He's right." Blaze told them. " He'll come up with a way to use them. You can be sure of that."
" Besides, Kara will need our help assuring everyone that things will be ok." Clea told her husband. " I want to go help her." Jona wasn't sure what to do. He wanted to stay and help fight, but he knew his master was usually right and Clea would need him with her.
" Please Jona." Clea tugged on his sleeve. " Come with me."
" Ok Clea." He kissed her. " I'll come with you. But I want to be kept advised of what's going on."
" Be careful." Chuy said. " Both of you."
Jona and Clea walk down the stairs. At the bottom, Jona walked to a closet in the hall. He waves his hand in front of it then opens it. Clea looks in and finds all kinds of winter clothing. She smiles and pulls out two heavy coats and hands one to Jona. He helps her into hers then put his on.
" You don't want to go, do you?" She asks as she looks into his eyes. Jona buttoned up her coat and smiled.
" It's that obvious?"
" I know you Jona." She said. " Very well. You stay and help. I can go alone."
" Not with all that snow out there." He slid into his coat and took her hand.
" I won't leave you alone." He said. " Besides, how will you get through all that snow alone?"
" How will you?" Icicle said as he came down the stairs and came to the front hall. " You know how deep the snow is?"
" I figured I'd blast a path through it." Jona shrugged.
" That would be a great waste of magic." Icicle told them. " I could take you there or Blink could much easier."
" How?" Clea asked.
" I'm an Ice dragon." Icicle held out his hand and blew on it. A frozen little statue of the young couple formed in the palm of his hand. He handed it to Clea. " For you."
" How beautiful." She said as it danced in the palm of her hand. " Look Jona."
" It's wonderful. Thank you. We'll have to keep it cold.
" Don't worry." Icicle told them. " It won't melt, ever. I can take you over or through the snow, Blink can take you through shadows, or Blaze can melt his way through."
" We can manage it ourselves," Jona said as he ushered Clea towards the wall.
" Jona Wait!" Blink and Chuy stood at the second floor landing looking down at them. The dragon took Chuy hand and stepped into the shadow at their side and emerged from shadows next to the closet doors.
" We're not here to be your enemy." Blaze said. " We are here to help save Bravosa and all of the people."
" If you let us." Icicle said stepping over to them. " The whole world is in trouble and we need your help to save it."
" Jona, this is what dragons do." Chuy said. " I trust them. But you have to make up your own mind about them." Jona stood there confused about what to do. This ice dragon has the power to do all the things that's been happening in Orton. But of what he knew of dragons, Chuy was right. They were protectors, not destroyers. what should he do?
" Hey." Clea turned her husbands face to her. " Your magic is strong. And so is your heart. Look there for an answer." Then she kissed him.
Blink, Blaze and Icicle stepped over and held out there hand. Jona looked at them, into there eyes. There he saw something. Sincerity glowed in there eyes. His mind was made up, he would trust them.
" Icicle, could you take us to the cave?" He reached out and shook both there hands.
" Of course my friend." He smiled. " Ready when you are."
" If there's any trouble. Call us." Chuy told them as he hugged them both. "And be careful."

Outside the tower the snowmen watched and waited for someone to exit. As they watched they saw something shimmer into view. Three people emerged from the walls. Quietly they hid in the shadows there white blending in with the snow. They must be on there way somewhere. All the snowmen slowly went to there dogs and got ready to ride.

" Once I shift, climb onto my back." Icicle told them. " It won't be as cold."
Spreading his arms he shifted to his dragon form. He was as white as snow with a long barbed tail and huge wings. From his muzzle hung what looked like icicles and from his head stood two horns.
[ Climb on.]
Jona lifted Clea until she could step on the leg Icicle held out for her then she climbed up on his back. Once she was on, Jona climbed on behind her.
[ Where off.]
Spreading his wings Jona leaped into the air and climbed as he flapped his wings. From Icicle's back they could see everything. Orton seemed gone, buried under snow. Not much showed above the snow.
" Orton is gone!" Clea cried. Jona hugged her from behind and kissed her neck.
" But the people are safe." He said. " And that's cause of you."
[ I see heat over to the left.] Icicle sent. [ Is that your caves?]
" Yes it is." Jona said. " Have you always been called Icicle?"
[ That's my dragon name.] He said. [ I have a human name to.]
" May I ask what it is?" Clea asked.
[ It's Dylan.] He said. [ I haven't used it in many many years.]
" It's a strong name." Jona told him. " We had a king many years ago named Dylan Kur. He was a great leader."
[ Thank you.] He said. [Hold on. I'm landing.]
From above they could see smoke rising from thermal chimneys from the caves. With his dragon sight, Icicle could see where the cave entrance was located. That was where he decided to land. As he came down they could see the entrances was actually buried under snow. Icicle shifted and walked them to the snow covered entrance.
Jona raised his hand to blast the snow away when Icicle stopped him.
" I have an easier way." He smiled.
He raised his hands and parted the snow mound. Snow swept down from the entrance and parted to reveal the cave before them. As they stood there heat came flowing out at them in waves.
" Lets get you two inside." Icicle said.
Together they entered the cave. Torches had been placed on the walls at certain intervals apart showing them the way to go. It took less then five minutes to find the chamber that housed the people of Orton. The sounds of there voices could be heard as they approached. Entering the chamber, all eyes turned to them and all talking stopped.
" Kara!!" Clea called out.
" Here!" Came the answer. Clea turned to see Kara running toward her. They met and hugged.
" I'm so glad your all OK." Clea said,
" Whats going on out there?" She asked. " We keep hearing this strange growling."
" Coming from outside?" Icicle asked.
" Yes." Kara's husband Kuan said as he walked over carrying a sword. " We were going out to check on it when we found ourselves blocked in."
" We didn't see anything when we came in." Jona said. " But we'll check the outside just to be safe. Clea, stay here. Would you help Dylan?"
" I'm at your side." The ice dragon said when he heard his name.
" Everyone wait here." Jona said as he and the ice dragon left.
" Is there any wild beast in Bravosa that could have made those noises?" Icicle asked.
" Nothing that could have survived that storm." Jona said. " We're tropical here. It's never snowed here before. The animals are suited for heat and hot weather not this snows."
" Then this is something Kearn's responsible for." Icicle frowned. " I think I know what it is."
" What?"
" Snowmen." Icicle told him as they left the cave. He looked down and searched the snow as they walked. Searching from side to side, Icicle spotted something, Jona looked where he pointed. There he saw strange paw prints. They looked webbed but they were huge, bigger any prints he'd ever seen before.
" What are they?" He asked.
" Snowdogs." Icicle said.
" Snowmen, snowdogs? What are they?" Jona asked."
" Up in the far north there's a land that's covered with snow all year round. There are human colonies but its mostly the home of the Kensi and Snow people." Icicle explained. " Snow men can live in absolute zero degrees and live off whatever animals they can catch, even humans. They're carnivorous nomadic people always on the move. You can guess who it is they worship."
" Kearn." Jona said.
" That's right." Icicle said. " So if he's here, I'll bet he's bought his followers to."
" What do they want?" Jona asked.
" Food for one thing. And if Kearn brought them here, and that's the only way they could have gotten here." Icicle said. " They'll do whatever he wants."
" Then we better find them." Jona said.
" Come on. I think I can find them." Icicle told him. " They're cold, so being ice and snow, I should be able to sense them.""

Icicle shifted and Jona climbed on and they took off to find the snowmen. Unknown to them two snowmen had been hiding in a outcropping or rock on the side of the cave entrance. Once Jona and Icicle were gone they entered the cave. The heat was almost unbearable to them but they kept on. They were under orders from Kearn to bring him back a treasure, and that was what they would do. Following the scent they had found earlier, they moved deeper into the caves. Soon they heard voices. They looked in and saw hundreds of people in there. With a mighty roar they leaped in and started ripping people apart with their claws. Woman screamed and men grabbed weapons to fight. But the snowmen were fast. They tossed men as they searched for the one they were looking for.
" Kara, take Clea and get out of here!" Kuan yelled as he pulled his sword from its scabbard. The snowmen were heading in there direction.
" No!" Clea said. She stepped forward and raised her hands and uttered a few syllables. From her hands came a blast of energy that struck the first snowman and sent him flying back to crash into a wall. In the center of his chest, there was a large hole from her blast
" I've learned a little magic myself." She said.
Running forward, Kuan raised his sword and struck down at the other snowman. It blocked with its arm and deflected the blow. Moving quickly. Kuan stabbed at it. Feeling no pain as his sword pierced its side it backed up a little from the force of the blows. With axes and other instruments men jumped on the downed snowman and hacked at it until it was in pieces on the cave floor. As Clea readied her next blast, the snow man reached out and grabbed Kuan and threw him at her. She screamed as Kuan's body bowled into her and knocked her out.
" KUAN!!" Kara screamed.
Sniffing the air, the snowman leaped at Clea and Kuan on the floor. Kara came running at it. It pushed her away and grabbed Clea. Tucking her under its arm, it ran for the entrance batting anyone that got in front of it out of its way. With its prize captured the snowmen ran for its mount and took off across the snow.

From up high, Jona heard Clea's scream in his head. Something had happened in the cave.
" Dylan!" He said. " Clea's in trouble. We have to head back to the cave!"
[ Hold on!!]
Spinning in the air, Icicle flipped around and headed back the way he came. On the ground they saw six snowmen on there mounts riding across the snow field. Icicle dropped down and landed in front of them. Jona jumped off and sent a bolt of energy at the crowd. He knocked one off his mount and sent another towards them as the surrounded them. Icicle reared up and roared. Dropping back down he grabbed a snowman and tore him in two. Attacking with spears, all but one snowmen dismounted and came at them. Leaping to his left, the lone snowman disappeared into a cloud of snow that appeared before him. When the cloud dissipated he was gone.
" Noooo!!!" Jona screamed. Lashing out he sent bolt after bolt at the snowmen while Icicle ripped into them. Soon all the snowmen were dead on the ground. All that was left were the snarling Snowdogs slowly advancing on them. Jona gathered his power into a great ball to disintegrate the dogs when Icicle stopped him.
" They're all we have that can lead us to Clea." He sent. " Let me try something."
Shifting back to human form, Icicle stood in front of the growling Snowdogs. He cleared his mind and then sent out his dragon touch to all the dogs minds. They all stopped growling and stared at him. The biggest of them all slowly moved towards him sniffing the air. He concentrated on the lead dog and sent out strong feelings of his alpha presence. The Snowdogs ears perked up. As the snowdog stared back, Icicle felt him take a hold in his mind. It was a fight for dominance to see if he was strong enough to be his rider. Icicle pushed back with all his strength taking hold of the dogs mind and holding him down. Back and forth the mind battle went until he felt the dog give in and he heard a whimper. He looked into the dogs eyes and saw him lower his head to him. Walking forward, Icicle reached out and put his hand on the dogs face and felt an instant connection.
{ You Alpha now.}
[ What are you called?] Icicle asked. The dog panted and butted his head against Icicle sniffing him all over to imprint his scent in his mind.
{ Me Viggo.}
One by one the others stepped up to tell him there names. Rush, Tug. Mia, Geo. Runner. Each one had white fur but different markings. Viggo was the tallest with what looked like almost a check mark on his chest, Mia was his mate. She had the shaggiest fur of them all. Tug had a scar on his muzzle from fighting when he was younger. Runner and Geo were almost identical except Tug had blue eyes. Rush was the smallest of them all, but as his name revealed, he was the fastest and the one that got into things first.
After learning there names and greeting each of them, Jona came over to join them. All the dogs heads turned to him curious as to who he was. Jona stopping fearing they may attack him
" Come closer." Icicle waved. [ This is my friend. So he's your friend to. Understand?]
{Yes Alpha.} They all gathered to him an got his scent. Runner butted against him and licked him.
{ Friend?} He asked. Pushing his head into Jona's hand. Jona smile, he realized he liked these animals. He ran his hand over Runners fur feeling how soft and thick it was.
{ Come Ride.} Runner sent to him.
" We have to find my wife Runner?" Jona told him.
{Wife?} Viggo asked.
" His mate." Icicle told them. " She was carried off by the snowmen before the fight. We have to find her and get her back."
{Cold men eat her soon.} Mia sent.
" Yes, so we have to stop them." Icicle told them. " Can you find them?"
{ Yes.} Viggo said. { Snowmen bad. we help.}
" Good." Join said rubbing runners ears. " First we go to the tower, then we find Clea."
{ To wer? What that?}
" A big building with no windows or door." Jona said.
{???}
" He doesn't understand." Icicle told him as he climbed on Viggo's back. " You have to show him in your mind. If he's been there , he'll take us there."
Jona climbed on runners back. Then they both showed them the Tower of Chuy.
{ I Know big rock.}
[ Then go!] Icicle sent. Faster then any horse could ever run, the band of Snowdogs took off towers Chuys tower. They had new masters now. Masters that would treat them much better. They could see it in there minds. For once, the Snowdogs were happy to have riders.

In the tower Blink had slipped into a dark room and into shadows where he came out back in New Keanna. In his mind he called out to Ono and explain what was happening in Bravosa.
[ Your right. Nautica is you best choice.] Ono said. [ I only hope she can move that much water.]
[ I can try.] She said as she made her way to the top floor where Blink waited. [ Tell Denner where I've gone if he comes back.]
[ We will.] Shayn sent. [ Blink, you come back after you drop her off. We my need you here.]
[ I'll hurry.] Blink said.
On the top floor Nautica found him outside of the empty dark room. She smiled at him.
[ Ready?] He asked. She nodded. [ Take my hand and close your eyes.]
Hand in hand Blink opened the door. Soon as he closed it they slipped into shadows and were gone from the Manor. Cold enveloped her as they made there way back to Bravosa. In seconds they were back in Chuys tower.
" What a way to travel! " She said.
" Come meet Chuy."

Cold wind streaked pasted her face as Clea woke in the saddle riding across the snows. She shook her head to clear her thought and looked around to see where she was. She was on the back of some large animal. Fear filled her as the animal stopped running. They must have arrived at wherever they were going. She looked up into the face of the rider and saw it was a snowman. In shock she raised her hands and sent a blast into it's face knocking it off the back of its mount. She jumped down and looked around ready to run when she heard laughter. Clea turned to see Kearn standing there with more snowmen at his back. She backed up and bumped into something that growled at her. It was a great Snowdog.
" Beauty and powerful to." Kearn said. " You must be a great treasure to the dragons."
" What?" She said. " Dragons?"
" Yes my dear. Your champions, your heroes." He said as he walked toward her. The closer he came, the colder it got and Clea began to shiver. Kearn was a tall man with skin as white as snow. His winter cold emanated from him out freezing all around him. He wore a stern look on his face from his frozen heart. His head was crowned with bluish spiky hair on which he wore an icicle crown. Kearn dressed in a long white coat with black vest and a snowflake pin. Black leather pants with knee high boots finished his attire.
" They will come for you." He said and reached out to touch her face. As he did, his touch was so cold it burned her and she pulled back.
" You know how I know?" He laughed. " They are heroes, That's what they do. And it will be there deaths, and maybe yours. Maybe. I might decide to keep you as my bride. How's that sound to you? You could be queen of this frozen land, until my touch kills you."
" Your mad!! " Clea cried.
" No, I'm a god!! " He turned from her to the snowmen. " Bring her. And don't hurt her."

It didn't take Viggo and the rest of the Snowdogs long to get Icicle and Jona back to the tower. Jumping off Runners back, Jona ran to the tower and waved his hand before the wall and passed through. Icicle climbed down and pet Viggo's head.
{ We stay or find snowmen?}
" Send Rush and Geo to find the snowmen. Tell them to be careful and not to let the snowmen catch them. If they see Clea, keep a watch on her. Get her away if they can do it without being seen." Icicle told him. " Mia and Tug should go to the cave. Have them stay out of sight of the people. Tell them not to let any snowmen into the cave. You and Runner stay and wait for us. We'll be out soon."
{ We obey Alpha.}
Viggo trotted back to the others and gave them the orders. Mia and Tug barked there unmistakable calls and took off for the cave. Then Rush and Geo ran off in a different direction on there mission. Icicle watched them go then turned to the tower and went in.
In the front parlor on the first floor, Jona was telling Chuy what happened at the cave. Icicle saw Nautica and went and hugged her.
" How are the people in the caves?" Chuy asked.
" I don't know." Jona said. " We were so distracted by the snowmen we didn't get a chance to go back and see."
" I can go check. " Blink said. " There's plenty of shadows in those caves. I'll just slip in and see."
" Let me go with you." Nautica said.
" Why? I can do this alone." Blink said. He was puzzled why she wanted to go.
" Don't take this the wrong way brother." Icicle said. " But your a bit scary sometimes. Besides, don't you have to get back?""
" It's the dark thing I have going." he clapped Icicle on the back. " Suits me well sometimes. And yes I do. But I can drop Chuy off before I go.""
"Good. Some of them may be hurt." Chuy said. " They may need a healer. I'll go and stay with them for the time being."
Blink walked to the closet with Chuy. They turned and waved as he opened the door and took them off into shadow and was gone.
" I'm worried about Clea." Jona told them. " We have to free her as soon as we can."
" You all know Kearn's going to be expecting us to come for her." Icicle told. " That's why he took her. To draw us out to him."
" And it's going to work." Jona said as he looked from one to the other. " Right? We are going to save her?"
" Yes we are." Icicle said. " Don't worry. I sent Snowdogs to find her and keep an eye on her. If anything threatens her, they'll call us."
" So what do we do?" Jona asks.
" We have to take care of Kearn before we try and do anything about the snow." Blaze said as he paced the room. " Otherwise we expose ourselves so he can hit us while we work. Its the only way."
" I agree." Alee said from his chair. " First we get rid of the snowmen, then we get their master. That's going to be my job."
" Why you?" Jona asks.
" Fire destroys ice." He shrugs. " Besides, if any of you want to try taking on a god, be my guest. Blaze, you can generate a lot of heat but, I have to warn you, he won't be easy to defeat."
Alee looked around the room to see if anyone had any other thoughts or ideas. It seemed they all agreed with him.
" Fine, here's what we do."