Lost in Another Place. 67

Panic filled his mind as Ozmun ran through the forest. He could hear the howls of the tracker beast on his scent chasing after him. From the sound of the howls he knew they were close and he didn't have much time before they caught him. If only he could get the collar off, then he could change and get away. But it was locked on him tight. Where should he go? Where could he hide from the high ones. They controlled everything and everyone. There was no where he could go where they wouldn't recognize him in the collar. Ozmun was 5' 7" dressed in a cloak and rags from working in the mines. He was broad shouldered and he had a lithely matted chest. His head was bald and his face had a ragged beard he tried to keep short. But shaving wasn't easy as a slave. All blades were not allowed. It was death for any slave caught with one.
Hearing the sounds of his pursuers snapped him back to reality. He had to find some way to lose the trackers on him. Pushing through the dense bush, Ozmun was surprised when he fell off a ridge and landed in a ravine in a stream. Rising up on his knees he wiped the water from his face and looked around. Under the ridge he saw a cave and he smelled something foul. He got to his feet and walked closer to investigate. He was right. The smell was coming from in there. There must be something dead in there rotting. Ozmun stepped in,holding his nose to try and keep the overwhelming smell out. He thought the smell might cover his scent and throw off the trackers after him. He moved a little ways in, far enough that he wouldn't be seen but close enough that he could watch the entrance.
The sounds of his pursuers grew closer as he waited quietly. Ozmun looked for some kind of weapon to fight with. He found a long thin stalactite hanging from the ceiling. He reached up and grabbed it by the base and pull until it broke loose. He weighed it in his hand and swung it around. It would do as a weapon.
He could hear them outside of the cave searching for him. He stepped back a little more and readied himself for a fight. Even though he knew he didn't have much of a chance against them. Sweat ran down his face as he waited to see what they would do. If only he could get this damned collar off. Then he could change his form and become something that could fight them off. Quietly he listened to what was going on outside of the cave. With hope, they might move off and he would have his chance to run.

Outside the cave mounted on their huge tracker beast, two Overseers climbed down and searched the grounds looking for their query. They were dressed in loose fitting trousers and boots. A heavy jacket like coat with a hood with there faces covered all in black. The huge saurian tracker beast had gotten them to the ravine, but there the tracks and scent disappeared. They found no footsteps showing which way he went. All they knew was that he had been there.
" Which way do we go?" The taller one asked looking around. He sniffed the air and all he could scent was the smell of death. The shorter one looked toward the cave. He walked to the entrance and screwed up his face and pulled back coughing.
" Ugh!!!!" He ran back from the cave. "Nas. He can not be in there! Nothing could survive in there! That stench would destroy our sense of smell and the trackers would be useless for days or worst."
" I think we should check it. Kru" His partner said. " We are charged with returning the escaped beast to Daru. If we fail, we will end up taking the beast place in the mine."
" Then you go in." Kru pulled down his face covering revealing his reptilian nature. " But I warn you. What is in that cave could carry the Laris disease. And you know what that means."
" Lose of our minds and death." Nas said as he stepped back away from the cave and thought about the disease.
" We tell Lord Daru it is dead. We say it was trampled by our tracker beast and killed as it ran from us."
" We can find another human."Kru said. " Trample it and no one will know the difference. There just animals anyway for us to feed on."
" So we abandon this hunt?" Nas asked.
" If you want to go in there." He said. " I will wait out here. But I am not letting you anywhere near me once you come out. And I will tell everyone where you have been and what was probably in there with you."
" Then we will never talk of this again." Nas looked at Kru. " Our failure. Pledge to me now with blood. It is dead, we saw it die."
" I swear." Kru told him. " I saw it die under the feet of this very tracker beast."
Nas reached to his side and pulled out a wicked blade with a razor sharp edge. He ran the blade across his hand and watch the green liquid flow free. He looked over to Kru and gave him the blade. Kru took it and slashed his hand and held it out. Nas grabbed his bloody hand and there oath was sealed as there hand began to glow.
" If either of us breaks this vow." Nas growled. " Dead will follow on swift wings."
With out looking back at the cave, or another thought about the human. Nas and Kru climbed back on their Saurian tracker and rode off.

As they left, Ozmun stumbled out of the cave gasping for air. He crawled across the stream and lay on his back taking in huge gulps of air. They had abandoned the search for. But that didn't really mean much. If he gets spotted by any other Savonti, he'll be right back in the pens or on a plate for Daru or some other lords dinner. He sat there with his head in his hands wondering what to do next. Their had to be a way to end the slavery of the people of Pentanthin. He couldn't be the only one that wanted to be free and rid of the people that enslaved them. All these years of being victims of the reptilian race that made food of them. Ozmun got to his feet and made a decision. He was done running and being afraid of them. He would fight them even if it meant he would end up dead. He would free Pentanthin from bondage no matter what it cost. And the first thing he had to do, was get this damn collar off.

Ono opened his eyes to bright sunlight shining in his face. He raised his hands to cover his eyes and sat up. His head was pounding with a headache and the bright suns in the sky blinding his didn't help. Then it hit him. Suns? Did he just think there was more then one sun in the sky?
He uncovered his eyes and looked up. He did see two suns blazing in the sky. Where the hell was he? Then he remembered Shayn. He jumped to his feet and screamed his name
" SHAYN!!!"
He looked around panic beginning to settle in. Where was he? He had to find him.
" I'm here." He heard off to the left of him. Quickly he turned in the direction and saw him laying under a stand of trees. Ono ran to his side and knelt and hugged him with tears filling his eyes.
" I thought I had lost you for a second." He held him tight against him.
" You can't lose me." Shayn kissed his cheek. " Your stuck with me for the rest of our lives."
" Thank Rimnar for that." Ono helped his mate to his feet. As Shayn bushed himself off he looked around. They were in a dense forest that looked totally unfamiliar to him. Then he looked up and saw the suns and his mouth dropped open in shock.
" Ono." He said. " Where are we?"
" I don't know." Ono told him. " But we're not on Keanna that's for sure."
" Then where are we?"
" I don't know!" Ono said. " But don't worry. We'll find a way home. Or they'll come find us. We just have to keep our wits together."
" How do you feel?" Shayn asked him as he turned him around to inspect him. he found many cuts and scratches.
" I've got one terrible headache." Ono said smiling.
" Let me fix that." Shayn reached over and placed his hand on his forehead and sent his healing powers into him. Seconds later the headache was gone and all the cuts and scratches were healed.
" Better?" He asked.
" Much." Ono reached for him and kissed him.
" What now?" The blond boy asked.
" We look around I guess." Ono shrugged. " There has to be somebody here somewhere."

Preparations. 66

High on the ridge over Balthazar's castle, Valkar woke up. Azeal was on watch observing the castle while Cutter slept sitting in his meditative position. Feeling the fullness of his bladder, he got up and walked around the side of the cliff and relieved himself. He had a decision to make. He didn't have the forces to take Balthazar on himself. Yadessa was in ruins and what was left of his people were being cared for by the werewolves. But they would end this. Either him,or his allies. Balthazar Gaelich would not hold them in his grip much longer.
" FATHER!!" He heard Azeal calling.
Quickly he retied the fastening on his pants and hurried out to see what his son wanted. As he turned the corner, Azeal waved him towards the ridge where he was watching from.
" Look!!" he pointed out towards the castle. Valkar held up his hand to shade his eyes from the sun and saw what frighten Azeal. There he saw strange creatures he had never seen before heading toward the border of Yadessa. There were going to Tir Na. Valkar knew what was happening. They looked like what Angela had described her friend Sting to look like. These were Balthazar's new warriors. They were huge scorpion creature with deadly looking stingers and claws. There bodies were covered with what looked like grey shells. He could see human parts on the bodies to, arms and legs. Monsters, Balthazar was creating monsters. Valkar thought that knowledge had been lost in the century's. Hi ancestors once used magic like this.
" Father." Azeal said " What the hell are they?"
" Something out of our past the I thought we'd never see again." He told his son. "Go wake Cutter. We have to beat them to there destination. Hurry!"
Azeal ran back to wake the dragon from he sleep. Valkar knew he had to warn Jandar and Drake of what was coming.
[ Jandar!] He sent out.
[ Valkar.] Came his answer. [ Hows things in Yadessa?]
[ In ruins.] He said. [ But that's not the problem. You remember the stories of Baron Valkar's monster warriors?]
[ Yes.] He could feel Jandar's confusion.
[ They're real.] Valkar concentrated and sent Jandar the scene he had just witnessed. [ There on there way to Tir Na. I'm taking Azeal and Cutter and heading there to help. All my people are there.]
[ We're on our way. I'll warn them.]
" Azeal!" Valkar called. " We have to find Cort. He should come with us."
" He was here before we went to sleep last night." Cutter and Azeal came walking out of the small cave shelter.
" We have to get to Tir Na." Valkar told them.
" Father, what are those things out there?" Azeal insisted his father tell him.
" Those are horror's from deep in our past." He said. " Long ago our ancestors learn magic that could make strong deadly warriors by mixing different creatures with men or vampires to make horrors to use in battle. I thought that knowledge had died long ago in the past. But there they are heading to Tir Na. We can't let these things get there. All our people are there. Ranjer's there."
Azeals complexion was usually pale, but the thought of Ranjer in the path of those things was most frightening.
" You see what I mean now?"
" I understand." Azeal grabbed his scabbard holding Justice and strapped it to his side then looked at his father and Cutter.
" Lets go!" He said.
Cutter shifted to dragon and they climbed on his back. Taking a running leap off the cliff, Cutter spread his wings and they were off for Tir Na.
[ Cort!] Valkar sent out. [ Balthazar is attacking Tir Na. Meet us there.]
Valkar listened for his answer for a few minutes. Nothing came. He thought it strange that one of his most loyal companions didn't answer. But he didn't have time to worry about it now. He had more important things to worry about. So on they flew.

Deep in the dungeon of Balthazar's castle, Angela sat alone in her cell. Balthazar hadn't come down to visit her yet, but she knew he would very soon. As far as he knew, he had her. That meant he had won. And to a point, he was right. He did have her. But he hadn't won and she wasn't the weak wife he had dominated for so many years. She was much stronger now. She had more confidence in herself. At last she knew who she was and he couldn't take that away from him.
Angela stood and walked around the cell. It was the same cell Adam had helped her escape from months ago. Angela looked up and saw all the runes that kept her from using her magic. She wondered if she was strong enough to defy them. She raised her hand closed her eyes and concentrated. In her mind she picture a light forming in her palm. She opened her eyes and there it was shining brightly. A smile spread across her face as she made it grow brighter. Suddenly the sound of footsteps echoed down through the dungeon. He was coming. She closed her hand and killed the light and sat back down.
" Wake up my sweet wife!" He called as he stepped in front of her cell. " Welcome home my sweet. I've missed you."
" I haven't missed you." She said looking into his eyes. " You sick bastard."
" Ohh!!" He made a sad face. " Is that any way to talk to your loving husband?"
" You never loved me!" She spat at him. " I was just something to use to you. You have no idea what love is. You never did!"
" Don't anger me bitch!" His face twisted in anger,
" Or what?" She said. " You'll kill me now? Your bitch goddess won't like that will she?"
She could see the anger building on his face and wondered how far she could push him. Her dazzling white hair flowing out making her look radiant, she walked over to the cell door and smiled at him.
" Has anyone ever truly loved you, my husband?" She asked him. " A pet? You mother? Have you ever even had a friend? No? Doesn't that tell you something about yourself? Your a fucking monster. Far worst the those things you made and you deserve that witch you call your goddess. She's all you'll ever have and know this. She'll never love you, she can't."
Balthazar's eyes glowed with rage as his hands shook and he reached for the door and through it open. She stepped back smiling and raised her hands ready to do battle with him. He stepped into the cell towering over her with murder in his eyes.
" STOP!!" Thundered all through the castle as Muerte appeared outside the door. Both Balthazar and Angela looked out at the flawless evil goddess standing there. She was dressed in a long red silk gown the color of blood. Her hair almost the same shade and her eyes glowing red, she stared furiously at them. Quickly Balthazar fell to his knees and averted his eyes from her in fear of her wraith. But not Angela. She stood tall and faced her in defiance.
" So your here at last." Angela said walking past Balthazar to confront her.
" Yes I am daughter of the moon." Muerte said. " And you should be on your knees before me."
" I have no fear or respect for you." She turned her back to the death goddess. " All you can do is kill me. Then you will deal with my parents."
" HOW DARE YOU TURN YOUR BACK ON ME!!" Muerte raged. " I CAN DO FAR MORE THEN KILL YOU BITCH!!"
" Then do it!! Angela turned and screamed at her. " Do your worst! My father will welcome me in the underworld. And if you try hiding me like you did to them. I will be found and freed. It may take time but many won't rest until they find me. But you and Balthazar will be put down by then. So do as you wish Hag!!"
" Its not you I want. Well not you alone." Muerte waved her hand at Angela and bands of magic wrapped around her confining her. " It's your children I want."
Struggling against her bindings, Angela fell to the cold stone floor. She didn't understand. She thought Muerte wanted her for revenge against her parents. What could she want Athene and Tanis for?
" You look puzzled moon child." Muerte smiled at her. " You want to know what I want with your children?"
" It doesn't matter." Angela sneered at her. " You'll never get them. I sent them to safety."
" Oh, I'll have them my dear. " Muerte laughed. " You can bet they'll come to save you. In fact, I think there on there way now. So why don't we get you ready for a family reunion."
" Nooo!!!" Angela struggled against her bonds. Muerte threw back her head and laughed as she turned from her. She looked at Balthazar.
" Bring her."
" As you command." He gestured at his struggling wife and she rose into the air and floated behind him as they left the dungeon. Fear filled Angela's heart for the first time. She wasn't afraid for herself, but Athene and Tanis. She had to find a way to stop this. She couldn't let them died. In her head she screamed for her mother and the father she had yet and may never meet.

Flying would take to long so Jandar used magic to get them all to Tir Na. in the city center he appeared along with Rage, Dreik, Blink, Icicle, Banshee and Jayce and the shadows. As they took there first steps, Jandar stumbled. He was very tired from transporting so many at once. Rage reached out and caught his mate and pulled him close to him.
" Are you alright?" Rage asked.
" I'm fine. Jandar said. " It just took a lot of magic to get us here."
" Then you will rest at your parent place for now." His arm around his waist they all walked up the cobbled lane.
" I don't have time to rest." Jandar pushed himself away from Rage and tried to walked on his unsteady feet. Rage stopped him.
" You will get some rest and let me take care of this." Rage told him. This is my family to. I won't let any of them get hurt. You understand me?"
Jandar opened his mouth to answer but he saw the seriousness in Rage's eyes and stopped. He knew better then to argue with Rage when he looked like that. besides, he needed to recharge.
" I'll do as you say." He pulled into a kiss.
" Pelic, take him to the manor." Rage let Jandar go and watch as him and Pelic walked away. then he turned to the others.
" We're about to be invaded by Balthazar's warriors." He said. " You all know what they are. Strong scorpion creatures fast but stupid. Watch out for there stingers, the poison is fatal and Shayn isn't here to heal us. Jayce, I want you and the shadows in the air. None of them can fly and since the suns still up for a few hours, we won't have to worry about nightwalkers. I want to know the minute you see them."
" We won't let you down." Jayce and Graym spread their wings and took a running start and launched themselves into the air. Rage knew they would do there jobs well.
" Dreik." He turned to the dwarf dressed in brown. " I want a wall around the Wolves Lair. i want it high and wide. i want it as impenetrable as you can make it."
" I have a few ideas that will help." Dreik smile and run off pumping his short legs.
" Blink." The dour man cocked his head when he heard his name. " Once it gets dark. The three of us will have the job of protecting everyone left here. I'm going to try and get as many as we can out. But they'll be here soon. So in counting on both on you."
" Its just going to be us fighting?" Banshee asked.
" Hell no!" Rage turned and led them through town. " Drake has werewolf troops and Valkar sent his people here to. we should have plenty of help."
As the talked Jandar brother Tof walked out of the council building and met them.
" Rage, Im glad your here." He shook the dragons hand." Wheres Jandar?"
" At the manor." He said. As they talked they headed for the manor" Tof, we have to get the woman and children out of here. How's Drake doing?"
" He's a bit lost." Tof looked worried. " I've never seen him like this before. Where can Ono be?"
" We'll find him." Rage told his brother in law. " Don't worry. In the mean time, we have to move these people out of here."
All around the Wolves Lair troop were rounding up the people. Werewolves and vampires working together for the first time in century's. Rage was amazed to see it. He knew Valkar would be to. He wonder when Valkar was. Last he had heard, he was on his way to Tir Na. Where could he be?
[ Valkar!!] He sent out.
[ Yes Rage.]
[ Where are you?] He asked.
[ Following the warriors.] Valkar sent. [We are a few hours away.]
[ How many are there?] Rage walked in to the manor with Tof. Drake was sitting at a window staring out at nothing. Jandar came over with Sharone at his side.
[ Valkar?] Rage held up his hand to stop them from talking for a second.
[ Less then one hundred.] Valkar sent back. [ We'll slow them down.]
[ No, just get here. I want us all together.]
" Sharone." Rage looked at Jandars beautiful sister. " Why are you still here?"
" I have to take care of father." She walked over to her father carrying a drink for him. He looked up and smiled and took the drink.
" You have to take them and go." Jandar said." Its not safe here."
" No." she said adamantly. " This is our home. We'll fight for it if we have to."
" And I'll put you all to sleep and send you on your way if I have to." Sternly Jandar faced her. " I mean it. Either you take Mother and Father and get to safety, or I'll send you, and you know I can do it."
" No you won't." She said as her husband Aggar and Tof joined them.
" Whats going on?" Aggar asked. Tof looked at everyone in the room. Like Aggar he wanted to know why they looked so upset.
" Aggar." He turned to him. " Take them to safety. I'm putting you in charge. Wheres Ranjer?"
" In his room." Sharone said. " With Mother."
" We don't have much time." Rage told Jandar.
" Get Blink." Jandar said as he started for Ranjer's room. " He can get them out quickest. Tell him to take them to our manor and hurry back. I'll get Mother and Ranjer."
" Now see here!" Sharone yelled at them. " I'm not..."
" Yes you are!!' Aggar stopped her, pulling her to the side. " There right. You have to go and now. We.re being invaded, you understand? We can't defend the Lair knowing your here and could get hurt. Take them and go, please."
" OK." She reached up and kissed her husband, " I'll do as you ask."
As they talked there was a knock at the door. Tof answered it to find Blink there waiting. Rage waved the dark man over.
" How are things going?" Rage asked.
" Jayce hasn't seen anything yet." Blink told him. " I told them to fly out further then report back. Dreik built a wall around the Lair that rivals the one we have at home. It will hold them for a while. But were not in this for a long siege, right?"
" Right." Rage said looking over as Jandar carried Ranjer down the stairs with Tressandra following them.
" Blink, Im glad your here." Jandar put Ranjer down. He looked up at Bink and scurried behind his big brother hiding from the stranger." I need you to take my family back to New Keanna where they'll be safe."
" No!" Ranjer cried. " Im scared."
Blink knelt down in front of Ranjer, pushed the hair from his face to show the dragon tattoo and smiled. Rage and Jandar looked at each other in surprise. This was the first time they had ever seen him smile. He had a nice smile hidden behind that scowl.
" Little one." He said. " I'll let you fly on my back all the way there. And maybe I'll show you how to hide in the dark. would you like that?"
" Can I Jandar?" He asked pulling his hand. " Please!"
" Your not scared?" Blink asked. " Its gonna be dark?"
" I like the dark." Ranjer smiled. " I can see in the dark real good."
" You'll hold on tight and be good?" Tressandra asked him.
" Yes Mother I will."
" Then you can go." Jandar said. Ranjer hugged his leg and smiled his thanks. " I don't want him riding on your back through shadow. You hold onto him just in case he gets scared."
" Don't worry." Blink smiled at them. " I'll take care of him as if he were from my own egg. Who else am I taking?"
" Me and my husband and daughter." Tressandra went and stood by her husband in his chair.
" Then lets get you out of here." He walked over to help Drake from his chair.
" Come on dear." Tressandra whispered to him. " We're going on a trip."
" Have you found Ono?" He asked getting more agitated as they tried to get him up. " Wheres my boy? We have to find him. Jandar where is he!! Help me find him!!"
Jandar and Tof hurried to there fathers side to help him. He was getting stronger as he became more upset. Jandar placed his hand on His fathers head.
" Quiet now father." He whispered to him. " Everything will be alright. Sleep and dream of us in better days. Dream of Ono as a cub. Rest now."
Drakes slowly stopped struggling and fell back in his chair. His eyes grew tired and he fell asleep. Jandar bent over and kissed his fathers forehead then looked up at Blink.
" Get them out of here." He said. " Mother, ask for Rose. She's Blaze wife. She'll get you rooms and all settled in. This won't take long."
Jandar stood with his mother and Rage as Blink carried Drake out. With tears in her eyes, Tressandra kissed Jandar good bye.
" Be careful." She said and walked out the door.

Confessions. 65

Running down the stairs two at a time, Sting found the front door knocked in and bodies in the entryway. Usher seemed to have fought much harder then they thought. The three ran to the door and looked out. The house was ablaze in moonlight. Angela had said that all they had to do was to get in the light and they would be safe. None of them understood what she meant, but they leaped out into the light anyway. Off in the shadows they saw the warriors running towards them. As they hit the moonlight they were all knocked back. It looked like they had just hit a wall. As they entered the light, magic flowed all around them as it lifted them and took them away to safety.

Standing out on the balcony over looking the lake, Balthazar watch as his warriors departed for Tir Na. Yadessa was now in ruins so he needed a new place to make his base. Once he remove the werewolves, Tir Na would be perfect. He sent almost every warrior he made into Tir Na. A small army. They had done so well in retrieving Angela this morning. She was now waiting in the dungeon for him to do as wished with her. And after all that had happened, her death was what he wished. Balthazar turned and walked back into the castle. Different painful was to kill her was all he could think of at the moment. Typical vampire deaths were not good enough. It had to be a sacrificial death. Dismemberment on Muerte's altar he knew would please his goddess. But that wouldn't be enough. Athene had to die too. He knew he had to fulfill his original promise to Muerte and sacrifice her. But how would he get her here? Would she be stupid enough to try and save her mother? She tried once. He had no doubt Tanis and that lummox first experimental warrior would try. An evil grin spread across his face as he walked down the stairs towards the dungeon. It was time to see his dear wife. He knew he would enjoy this.

Arriving in a flash of moonlight, Athene, Tanis and Sting looked around to see where they where. Off in the distance Athene saw the dragons Manor. She knew where they were.
[ What is this place?] Sting asked.
" This is New Keanna." Tanis told him. " The dragons home."
" Come on." Athene pulled them toward the Manor. " We have to get mother help."
Sting changed his form back to Adam and ran after Athene and Tanis.
[ Jandar!] Athene sent out as she ran. [ Theres trouble in Prafa. We need your help!]
[ Where are you Athene?] He sent Back. [What happened?]
[ We're in the foyer heading up to your study.]
Jandar and Rage's study was on the second floor of the manor. It didn't take them long to reach it. Knocking at the door Jandar opened it and ushered them in. Sitting around the table they found Jandar and Rage dressed in the traveling clothes. Jax was there with Eheren.
Jandar looked at them standing in the doorway dressed in their sleeping clothes. Athene in a nightgown, Tanis in short pants and a grey blood stained shirt and Adam in just a loin cloth.
" My god!" He said. " What happened?"
" Prafa is no more." Tanis said hugging himself and shivering.
" Balthazar?" Rage asked.
" Yes." Adam said his face red in embarrassment. " They came just before dawn."
" Your freezing." Jandar waved his hand and clothing appeared on the table for each on them. Rage handed each of them something to put on.
" Tell us what happened." Jax said sitting up listening.
" We're not quite sure what really happened." Tanis pulled on a pair of leathers as he talked. " All I know is mother woke me and said we were under attack. I went to wake Adam and ran into nightwalkers on the way. How they got in we later learned was through the front. We found three dead ones Usher killed downstairs. I had no idea Usher was such a fierce warrior. He killed six before before then got him. He was truly amazing."
" He'll be honored in the underworld." Jax told him. " Go on."
" After we found Usher." Athene continued. " Mother insisted we leave. She refused any help from us. She told Adam to get us out into the moonlight. Why? Whats moonlight got to do with anything?"
Jandar, Rage and Jax looked at each other as if they shared a secret some of the others knew nothing about.
" Why didn't she come with you?" Jandar asked sitting down next to Rage.
" She had to get to get Uncle out." Athene said. " He was still upstairs. He's here right?"
" No he's not." Jandar gave it some thought. " Arturus has never been here. Neither has your mother. She would send him somewhere he feels comfortable. Like to my father. There close friends."
" We have to save her." Athene pleaded with them." Father will kill her. I know it."
Suddenly a bright flash of illuminating light filled the room and surprised them all. When it faded Alea was standing there among them. Jax climbed to his feet and held out his hand to her.
" Gentlemen. This is Alea, goddess of the moon."
Everyone stood and bowed to her showing their respect. Jandar and Rage stepped forward hands held out.
" We're all glad your free Lady."
" Thank you all." She said. She looked at Athene and Tanis, then back at Jandar and Rage. "But we have more important problems to handle."
" We know sister." Jax said. " What do you want to do?"
" Take my grandchildren and free my daughter." She walked over to Athene and Tanis and smiled at them.
" Us?" Tanis looked shocked. " Your grandchildren? Whats she talking about?"
" This is your grandmother." Jax came and stood with them. " There's a lot you should know. You mother just learned of this too. By its true."
" Its why he took your mother." Alea looked from one to the other. She could tell they still didn't believe her. " Listen to me. For years I've been watching you both. Helping out as much as I could from my ride across the sky. Athene, your dreams. Where did you think they were coming from? And Tanis. At night whenever you fought. Didn't you feel so much stronger at night then during the day? Did you think that was because you were a vampire? Your only half vampire. Neither of you every really needed blood to live. Your the grandchild of the goddess of the night and the moon. That's where your power really comes from. Adam, When Balthazar changed you, he tried to wipe your mind clean so only he could command you. Take away your will. Why do you think it didn't work? Why do you think you still had a connection to Angela? I interfered with his spells and kept your mind from being totally overwhelmed. Now its up to the three of you to trust me. Can you?"
Athene Tanis and Adam looked around the room for help. They weren't sure what they should do.
" Give her your hand." Jax told Athene.
" Why?"
" You'll see." He said. " Please."
Athene reached out and placed her hand in Alea's. As they touched she felt something familiar come over her. Visions began to run through her mind. She saw Alea curse Muerte and the birth of her daughter. She saw Alea and Nestor give the baby to someone to hide her. Then she saw her own birth and Alea looking down on her and uncle as he took her into hiding. It was all true she knew at that moment. This is her grandmother. Athene released her hand and through her arms around Alea.
" Its true!" She cried. " You are my grandmother. Tanis its all true."
Tanis walked and hugged them both rubbing Athenes back.
" This is all great and fine." Adam broke in. " But Lady Angela is still in Balthazar's dungeon waiting to be executed. How are we going to get her out?"
" Simple." Came a voice from no where. In a swirl of magic, Aramis appeared. " We give him what he really want."
" Aramis!!" Jax hugged his older brother and squeezed him tight."Where have you been?"
" I had a few errands to take care of." He smiled as Jax released him. " So things aren't going so well I see."
" Muerte is out there somewhere." Rage said. " And Shayn and Ono are missing."
" The prophesy." Aramis looked at Alea. She nodded her head. " I know about Muerte. I was with Nestor when she yield power to him in the underworld.
" He's safe?" Alea asked.
" He's in power and repairing the damage she did down there." Aramis went and sat with Jandar and Rage. " I'm sorry. Shayn and Ono, that's my fault. I should have woke you myself."
" Nonsense." Rage said. " They probably would have went anyway. Jax has an idea how to find. We're trusting him to find them."
" We'll talk about that later." Jax said. " What did you mean by giving him what he wants?"
" Whats he really want?" Aramis asked.
" Power." Tanis said.
" And who's he getting power from?"
Everyone looked at each other a little puzzled by the question he asked.
" From her." Alea said. " I think I know what you mean."
" What?" Jandar asked.
" She wants me." Alea told them. " She wants to be free of her curse and to kill me. Only I can free her. So I'll give myself to him for Angela."
" This will work." Eheren smiled. " He's so power mad he thinks she won't kill him if he gives her what she wants. But we know better."
" Yes we do." Aramis said. "She plans to kill us all."
" Does she have that much power?" Jandar asked.
" YES!!" Jax, Aramis and Alea said together.
" But I have a plan." Aramis smiled.

Prafa Falls. 64

It was a quiet night in Prafa as the sleepy guards sipped warm cattle blood on the wall and talked about what was going on in Yadessa. Many of there relatives had been sent to Tir Na by Valkar for there protection. Many had also died in the attacks by the dragons. It had been explained to them how Muerte had taken control of the dragons and made them attack the city. They understood and couldn't hold a grudge against them for some of them had also been controlled by Balthazar when he seized dominion of Vasag. Remembering the feeling of being held in someone else s power made them cringe. But it was different for the dragons. Dominance for them meant searing pain as dragons brains fought for control. But they were free now and couldn't be controlled again. For that they were all thankful. So it was just another boring night on watch they thought. Unknown to them, things were about to change.
Overhead in the sky many bats flew watching the men on guard. They relay back there low numbers to those waiting at the edge of the forest waiting to attack. In the forest Balthazar had sent twenty of his altered warriors on a mission to capture his family and bring them back to him.
[Master.] A nightwalker in charge sent to him. [ There are no more then three on the wall guarding the gate. What are your wishes?]
[ Destroy that city and bring my family to me.] Came the answer. [ Send those in the sky down to silence the guards.]
[ We obey.]

Along the the wall three guards patrolled there eyes almost closed in boredom. At the rear of the gate two vampire bats flew down and came to rest on the deck of the wall behind the guards post. Shifting form, they stood and slowly crept up on the guard and grabbed him. Pulling a sword with a silver blade they quietly slit his throat and lowered him to the deck. One down, the nightwalker held up the sword and sent a flash of reflected light into the sky to send down the next ambush. Minutes late the second guard was also laying face down dead. All that was left was the guard at the gate. He stood and looked around the wall checking on the others. He saw each of them wave to him. He assumed everything was well. A sudden noise from below the wall caught his attention. He looked out and saw a huge dog down in front of the gate barking.
" Quiet mutt!" he yelled.
Turning around a hand closed on his mouth silencing him as the blade was drawn across his throat ending his life. Hurrying over to the gate controls the invader pulled the switch and let the rest of Balthazar's forces in. Quietly they made there way through town from house to house killing everyone then found. Prafa was falling.

Lost in her dreams Angela slept soundly until a voice stirred her awake.
[ Angela, wake up!!] She heard Alea calling to her. [ Prafa is being invaded]
Angela instantly came awake and jumped from her bed. She had to get to Athene and Tanis. Dressed only in her nightgown she ran fron the room and down the hall to there rooms. She bust into Tanis's room and touched his forehead. his eyes open and looked up at her.
" Mother?" He blinked. " Whats the matter?"
" Trouble my sweet." She told him. " Get Adam And Usher. We have to go now!"
Quickly they both were out of the room and Angela was into Athene's room. There she found a nightwalker bending over her daughter.
" GET AWAY FROM HER!! She screamed.
Looking up the nightwalker hissed at her. Angela raised her hand and sent a bolt of energy at the dead thing and blasted it to dust. As the dust settled she ran to the bed and touched her forehead waking her.
" Mother?" Athene opened her eyes. " I was dreaming we were under attack."
" We are Thene." She pulled back the covers and helped her out of bed. " We have to get to the dragons. Hurry!]
As they made there way to the door, Adam and Tanis came running to them carrying Ushers body.
" Oh no!" Athene cried.
" He's dead." Adam told them. " We found him at the top of the stairs with a sword battling a warrior. He killed two nightwalkers before they got him."
Angela reached out and touched his face and closed his eyes. Suddenly crashing noises came from bellow them and they heard footsteps on the stairs.
" Leave him." She said. " You have to go."
" No mother I won't leave you!" Tanis cried.
" None of us all." Adam put Usher down the shifted to his warrior for. coming around the corner, two warriors advanced on them. Sting roared and ran at them grabbing one with his claw and pinning it to the wall. His stinger whipped around and stabbed it twice through its hard shell. Tanis leaped at the second one sending a high kick at its exposed face. He knocked it back as his long talon like nails grew and he thrust them into its brain through its eyes. Both warriors fell dead to the ground.
[ Angela. I can hold them for a few minute.] Alea told her daughter. [ But I'm still on my nightly ride. I can't come help you. Once my ride is over I will find you. Get out of there now!!]
[ Mother I have to get to Arturus.] She sent out. [ I'm sending the children away. Can you help them escape?]
[ Yes but it has to be now.]
"Adam." Angela called to him. " You have to get them to safety for me."
" No!!" Athene cried. " I can't lose you again!"
" Listen to me all of you." She said. " I love you and I'll come to you in New Keanna. But I have to get Uncle out of here to. Get outside into the moonlight and you will be safe."
" What are you talking about?" Tanis asked.
" I don't have time to explain." Angela kissed all three of them. " Go now or I'll send you myself. Go!!"
Sting grabbed Tanis and Athene and pushed them towards the stair as they protested. Turning and running the other way. She ran to a staircase that went up to the next floor. There in his room she found a warrior drooling about to rip into him.
" Oh no you don't!" She whispered a spell that put a force field around Arturus knocked out body. Again and again the warrior tried to stab through her field with no success. Howling he dropped him and turned to her. Angela smiled at it.
" Come on." She waved at it. The warrior charged hard at Angela bringing its claw swinging at her head. She summoned her shields to surround her like armor and blocked the blow then using her shield as a weapon, she swiped low at its armored leg knocking it off its feet. Scrambling like a crab, it came at her its claws open and ready to snap her in two. Wedging her field in between the claws she grabbed hold and started to force them apart. Wider and wider she forced the edges until the was a loud crack and the warrior howl out in pain. Quickly she raised her hands making the shield needle sharp and bought it down to pierce its shell and cut into its heart. Dropping her shield she ran to Arturus as the warrior died with a last shudder.
She pulled him into her arms and touched the waking spot. He didn't respond. She shook him, still nothing. Angela laid him down then stood.

POWER FLOWS AND SENDS YOU OUT.
SAFE YOU'LL BE I HAVE NO DOUBT
TO HEAL AND SLEEP THE TIME IS RIGHT.
I SEND YOU OFF TO AVOID THIS FIGHT.

Magic flashed and a glow began to surround Arturus as he disappeared from the room.
" Get better my brother."
Loud crashing noises began to climbed the stairs as Angela turned to the door. She didn't have the time to fashion a spell to get herself free. This was it she knew. Balthazar had finally found her. But he wouldn't get the weak wife he had before. This time she had the power to fight him. She smiled as the warriors and nightwalkers crashed into the room.
" I am Angela Gaelich." She said. " Take me to my husband."

All Hail, Lord of the Underworld. 63

At the gate to the underworld madness ruled the day as thousands of spirits were attempting to get free into the world while Azeal and his forces were fighting to contain them there. Mage spirits and warriors battled back and forth. The underworld was a war zone with spirits sending each other into oblivion. Azeal Tyr stood battling with his men against Muertes souls freed from there personnel hells. From her balcony she watch reveling in the death she had brought to the dead.
"Push them away from the gates!" Azeal called to his warriors as he swung his swords dispatching spirits one after another. Behind him another with a spear pulled back his arm then hurled the spear flying at Azeal. Just before it struck, Azeal heard a scream and turned.
"NOOO!!" Talin screamed.
As Azeal turned he saw the spear pierce the chest of his comrade. Talin fell to the ground, ectoplasm running from his chest. Azeal stooped to lift him.
"Leave me my lord." He said softly. " Battle on for my family up there. Don't let her win."
" I won't brave one." Azeal put him down and went back to the fighting.
From her balcony Muerte decided she was tired of watching. It was time she put an end to this rebellion. She raised herself into the air and slowly sailed forth into the fray blasting spirit after spirit in her way. Death walked among the dead this day. Glowing in the air with power she sent groups of tens and twenties to there deaths as she moved towards the gate. Azeal looked up and saw her coming his way laughing her evil laugh. She was so beautiful with her red hair flowing around her head. Azeal called for archers to fire on her but it was no use. Not one arrow could get through her power field. This was it Azeal thought to himself. It was over for him. But if he was to die, he would die trying to bring down his enemy. He spun his swords in his hand and called his elite guards around him.
"This is it." He said. "We charge. One of us my get through to her and end this. If not, we go with honor as we lived. Ready!"
"Ready!" The called back.
Like avenging angels they charged on her with weapons raised to bring her down. Suddenly from the gate a deafening call was heard echoing through all of the underworld.
" MUERTE STAND AND FACE ME!!"
All the fighting stopped as everyone turned to look at the gate. There standing proud as ever stood Nestor the true lord of the underworld. With him was Baron Valkar dressed in his old battle armor, twin swords in his hand. Nestor rose up into the air to face Muerte as Baron Valkar flew down to stand with his old enemy. Facing Muerte in his gleaming silver armor Nestor called out to her.
"Alea and I are free hag from our prison." He floated above the ground as the battle waged on beneath them.
"It doesn't matter Uncle." She said smiling seductively. "I beat you once and I'll beat you again."
"Then come on." He smiled holding out his hand showing her the flaming scimitar in his hand. "This will end today."
Muerte's smile faded as she gazed upon the sword in his hand. She knew just what he held. Hazzard the god killer. The goddess of war's deadly weapon.
"Yes." Nestor smiled at her. "This is Hazzard. Serina's weapon. Now we'll see who rules here. They'll be no confinement for you this time."
Nestor readied himself as he advanced on her. Muerte looked around for a way to escape. She knew none of her spell would make any difference against Hazzard and she was not a hand to hand fighter. Her only choice was to run.
"You win Uncle." She spat at him. "You can have your realm back. But this isn't over. You and your wife will feel my revenge soon and I will sit on your throne again. That I promise."
With that she disappeared in a flash of darkness and a loud thunderous crack. Nestor sighed and looked down at the battle raging around him.
"ENOUGH!!" He bellowed.
All the fighting came to a stop as everyone looked up at him there alone. Nestor sailed on towards his palace and stepped onto his balcony. He was home at last.
"Muerte is banished from this realm forever." He stated. "I rule here now and forever. Stand down or suffer the wraith of the true lord of the underworld."
All weapons dropped to the ground as everyone obeyed his command. Azeal ordered his men to round up the opposing force for Nestor to past judgement on. Baron Valkar shook hands with Azeal then went and stood with the forces to be judged,
"What are you doing?" Azeal asked him.
"My punishment is not finished." The Baron told his old enemy. "I go back to my hell. I'm just glad to have been able to do my part to help,"
"Baron Valkar, Azeal Tyr!" Nestor called to them. "Come stand before me."
Together the two old enemies walk to Nestor's palace and bowed before him.
"Rise both of you." The two rose and stood before their lord. "Azeal Tyr. You have been a sworn enemy to this man for century's. He killed many of your people and your own beloved son. I put his punishment in your hands. What shall it be?"
"My lord." Azeal looked on Baron Valkar his once most hated enemy. "I hated this man for years and with great reason. I know he was Muertes first and high lord of all the Vampires. I also know how he suffered over the years because of the curse more then anyone else, but all that is over now. His punishment will be to rest in the Hall of Heroes with the rest of us. His past is behind him, his sins forgiven. Besides, he may still be needed. I don't think this is over."
"You are as wise as you are forgiving, Azeal." Nestor smiled at him. "Baron, the werewolves have forgiven you. Your sentence is absolved. Once the Celestial fields are restored, you shall have a home there next to your friend here. Also, you shall both from now on be able to go to a relative when called."
"We thank you my lord." Azeal and Valkar bowed and stepped out on to the balcony to address the horde of spirits gather there.
"All hail Nestor!" Azeal yelled out. " Lord of the underworld!!"
Cheers went up throughout the realm.

While Jandar and Rage slept, Ono thought the news about Wyland Rusk being free was to important to wait. He knew Wyland would head straight for Tir Na for revenge against the people that put him to death. The werewolves had many legends of the days of the werewolf/vampire war. Wyland Rusk had led a surprise attack on the werewolves on Baron Valkar's orders to capture and kill anyone of the Tyr family line. His magic had been able to disguise his men and shield all there vampire traits from anyone they confronted. But Wyland didn't count on Azeal's new found magic or the spell books he had stolen from Valkar. Azeal had studied hard and mastered spells long forgotten by the vampires and set wards around the Wolves Lair that Wyland knew nothing about. Unknown to the vampires, the second they stepped across the borders of the city alarms went off in Azeal's mind. As they tried to enter Tyr Manor, magic surrounded them and held them in place until Azeal and his guards took them into custody. The unfortunate group was executed as spies. In those days execution of a vampire meant staking out in the town square to wait for the sun to rise and burn them to death. As the sun rose and began to burn him, Wyland Rusk swore he would one day return to have his revenge on the Tyr line. Now it seemed Muerte had given him his chance. He was free again and he had every intention of carrying out his threat.

The full moon shined bright in the clear night sky as Shayn winged his way toward the Wolves Lair with his mate riding on his back. Ahead of them, Shayn saw the clearing they always used where arriving in Tir Na. Shayn spiraled down for a landing wondering how they got into this one.
"I have to warn father." Ono told him climbing off his back. " Besides, Aramis trust us with this and we can do it."
[Take on a vampire mage from hell you mean?] Shayn shifted back to his human form.
"No. " Ono said. "We're just here to warn them."
"We could have done that from home." Shayn walked off towards the Wolves Lair a little annoyed at Ono. "We didn't have to come here to do that."
Ono caught up with Shayn and stopped him. He could feel he was angry with him but he wasn't sure why.
"You trust me?" He asked looking into his eyes.
"Yes." He said as he looked lovingly at him. " Of course I do."
"They why are you mad at me?"
"Because you didn't discuss this with me." He said angrily. " You just pulled me out of bed and ordered me to get dressed."
"I'm sorry." Ono said slipping his arms around Shayn's waist." I thought this was important and couldn't wait. My family may be at risk. Your family too. But I should have explained what's going on. I'm sorry Shay."
Shayn knew he couldn't stay mad at his love and he was right. The family was at risk. If anything happened to any of them, he'd never forgive himself.
"So what do you want to do now?" Shayn asked.
"Call father." He kissed Shayn as the walked off arm in arm.
[Father!!]
[Ono?] The answer came. [Son, this is not a good time. The Wolves Lair is over run by vampire refugees and I'm organizing a force to help Valkar in Yadessa. I can't talk now.]
[But it's important father.]
[What is it Pup?] Drake sent back a little annoyed at the interruption.
[Wyland Rusk is free.] The young werewolf told his father.
For a few seconds Drake was silent as the news his son relayed to him sunk in and he realized what he was saying.
[How do you know this?] Drake asked. This news worried him. Wyland was a definite threat to all of his family including Ono.
[We have friends in the underworld.]
Ono and Shayn made there way through the dark forest with only moonlight to show them the way. They could hear the sounds of the night all around them loudly.
[Ono, where are you?] Drake asked. [I can almost feel you. Are you near here?]
[We're in the forest outside of the Lair heading home.] He answered. Suddenly Shayn stopped. Ono not paying attention almost ran into him.
"Whats wrong?"
"Shh!" Shayn held up his hand to quiet him.
[What is it?] He sent.
[The forest.] Shayn looked around using his magical vision to scan the area they were in. [There's no noise anymore, it just got quiet. There's someone else here with us.]
[Ono!] Drake called to his son. [Both of you shift now and run. Get to the manor fast, we're coming to find you!!]
[Shayn, let's go. We have to hurry. He's here!!]
Shifting to their wolf forms the two lovers took off running towards the Wolves lair keeping an eye out for any threats. As Shayn ran he saw magic flair in front of them and steered Ono off to the right to avoid it. Magical blast began to hit the ground all around them knocking down trees and scooping pits in the soil. Leaping left then right Shayn realized they were being led into a trap. He decided the only way to go was up into the air.
[Ono. We're in trouble here.] He looked over to his mate running next to him.
[I know.] Ono sent back. [I'm sorry I got you into this.]
[It's ok love.] He sent. [I'm going to shift to Gabriel. You have to quickly get on my back so we can fly out of here.]
Shayn concentrated and shifted to his white dragon form. Ono leaped on his back shifting to more of a man wolf form and held on as Shayn vaulted into the air.
"You don't get away that easy." They heard from behind them. A bright glowing net appeared in front of then. Shayn couldn't turn fast enough to avoid it and crashed into it. Down they fell crashing through the dense trees to land together in a heap on the ground. Ono opened his eyes after changing back to his normal form and saw a tall thin man walking towards them with burn scars all over his face. He smiled at them as he stood over them.
"Wyland Rusk." Ono spat at him. "I knew you would come."
"Of course." He said looking down on them. "I swore to have my revenge didn't I. Now I shall,starting with you, the youngest Tyr."
Wyland raised his glowing hands over the two lovers on the ground and made a gesture summoning his power. In a beam of crimson power he sent a blast at them. Shayn woke just as Wyland attacked. He saw the bolt of magic coming and turned himself so it would hit him instead of Ono.
"NOOOO!!" Ono screamed as the blast hit the Salvation stone Shayn carried and they were bathed in a blinding blue light. At the same second, Drake and Tof arrived to see Wyland's spell strike them.
"NOOOO!!!" Drake yelled and leaped savagely on Wyland slashing and ripping him apart. Tof ran to his brother shielding his eyes from the bright illumination that covering them. Slowly it began to fade and they could see again. Drake ran over and left Wyland's corpse to see how Shayn and Ono were. As he approached he saw Tof backing away.
"What is it?" Drake asked. "How are they?"
"Gone." he said, "There's no one here. Father they're gone!!"
Drake stepped forward in front of Tof to where he saw them laying and found nothing there. Tears filled his eyes as his heart was breaking. His Ono was dead? He couldn't believe that. He closed his eyes and reached out with his mind. Out past the forest. Past the Wolves Lair. He stretched his mind out over all the lands near Tir Na to New Keanna. He found Jandar laying in his bed with Rage and woke him.
[Jandar, help me!]
[Father?] Jandar sat up in there bed. [What is it?]
[It's Ono.] He sent. [Somethings happened. He and Shayn are gone.]
[Gone where?] He asked. [What happened to them?]
[They were attack be an old enemy.] Drake allowed Jandar into his mind to witness what he had seen when he arrived. He saw Wylands attack and his magic strike the Salvation stone. Jandar saw the blue flash as the magics mixed and blinded those watching. Then it cleared and Jandar saw they were gone.
[Where are they?] Drake screamed in Jandar's mind. [Where is my pup? We have to find him!!]
Jandar knew his father was losing control. He felt the fear of losing Ono creep into his heart. He had to calm him down.
[Father.] He sent to him. [I will find him. They're not dead. We would have felt their death if that was what happened.]
Jandar reached over and shook Rage awake. Rage sat up looking a bit dazed and looked at Jandar. He saw the horror on his face.
"What's wrong?" he asked.
"It's Ono and Shayn." He said. "Somethings happened. Call Eheren, I need him here now."
[Tof.] Jandar called his brother.
[Yes brother.] He answered.
[Get father home.] He said. [He's going to be out of it for a while so you will be in control there. I will find them. Just have Sharone keep him calm until I get there. Aggar can help with Valkar and Yadessa.]
[I'll do as you say.] He promise him. [Jandar? Are you sure they're OK?]
[Yes.] He assured his brother. [I don't know where they are, but they're not dead. Get father home now. And take Wyland and stake him out again. Let the sun have him. We'll be there soon.]
[We're on our way.]

After sending out the call to Eheren and Jax, Rage waited for Jandar to finish with Drake before asking any questions.
"What the hell is going on?" He asked.
"Our two yougest went out on there own to warn my father about trouble on the way." He told him. As he finished there was a knocked at the door. Rage got up and opened it. It was Jax and Eheren.
"We have a problem." He told them. "Listen."
"Muerte open the gates to the underworld and freed some of the worst to come back and terrorize us." Jandar explained. "She's trying to divert our attention away from her."
"Right now." Rage said. "I don't care about her. What happened to Ono and Shayn?"
"There missing." Jandar said.
"What!!" Rage jumped to his feet smokes seeping from his nose. "WHERE ARE OUR BOYS?"
"Calm down love" Jandar stood and put his hands on his shoulders and sat him back down. "I don't know where they are. But if they were hurt we would feel it. Right? You would feel if Shayn was hurt wouldn't you?"
"Damn!" Jax said. "I was afraid they might do something."
"What do you mean?" Rage asked still hopping mad. "You know something about this?"
"They were suppose to stay here and tell you about the men Muerte sent back to Keanna." Jax said looking at Jandar and Rage. "Not go off after them. I should have known they would act on there own."
"No, it's not your fault." Rage said. "Those two are pretty headstrong."
"We can probe for them." Eheren said. "You, Jandar and I. And Jandar's right. If either of them were hurt, we would know. There's something you should know. Muerte no longer rules the underworld."
"What happened?" Jandar asked.
"You know Aramis freed Alea and Nestor from their moon prison." Eheren explained. " Nestor went back down and was able to take it back from her. So now she's back up here somewhere. I think we should call Aramis. He may know something that can help."
Jandar and Rage walked to the desk by the window and sat down to talk.
"We have to find them." Rage said. Jandar could hear the worry in his voice.
" I know love." Jandar took his hand to calm him. " But with Muerte on the loose she's more important. I think she'll head straight to Yadeesa and Balthzar. Ono and Shayn can take care of themselves for now. We have the rest of the world to worry about. If we don't, she could win and then finding them won't matter."
"Why do you have to be so smart?" Rage said frustrated. He bent forward and kissed his mate.
"Its my curse." Jandar smiled. "We'll put Cutter on the search for the boys once he's back. He has the best mental ability's."
"And I need to talk to Aramis to see what he wants to do next." Rage said. "I think this is about to get crazy, love."
"We have to go to Tir Na." Jandar got up. "Eheren, get everyone together. We need to have a meeting."
"As you wish my lords." Eheren left to carry out there orders.
"There's something else you should know." Jax sat back down.
"This isn't going to be good is it?" Rage asked.
"Shh!" Jandar quieted his mate. "Let him finish."
"After freeing Alea and her husband Nestor, Aramis brought them back here. We wanted them to meet you two, but you were asleep."
"And?" Rage said. Jandar gave him that raised eye brow look and Rage shut up.
"Alea is a prophetess." Jax told them. "A damn good one. The minute she touched Ono, she made a prediction."
Both Jandar and Rage slumped down on the bed and sighed. They both had history with prophesies. Rage was right, it wasn't going to be good.
"What was it." Jandar asked.
"She told them their destiny would take them far from home." He said. "This is what she said."

Protect the white and grey.
For they will cause the end of a thousand years of tyranny and enslavement.
Their power and courage will doom the high ones and bring freedom to all that suffer and fight with them.
The mark of the wolf and dragon will be the sign.

"And that's our boys right there" Rage threw his hands up.
"Any idea where they may be?" Jandar asked.
"None." Jax said. "They may not even be on Keanna any more."
"What's that mean?" Rage said standing and getting upset. His eyes began to glow with fire.
"Calm down love." Jandar pulled him down beside him. "This is there destiny. Neither Jax or Alea are responsible for any of this."
"I know." Rage told them. "I just want them home safe. Is there any way to fine them?"
"I know someone that may be able to help." Jax got back on his feet. "My brother Karis. He's my fathers messenger and he has access to many different realms that are out of our normal paths. If anyone can find them, he can."
"Can we put this in your hands Jax?" Jandar looked up at him worried. "We trust you and I know you care for both of them."
"I'd be honored to do all I can." He said bowing to them."I'll bring them home. I promise."

Hell Awaits. 62

Sounds of crashing and Furniture being destroyed could be heard echoing all through the underworld as Muerte ripped and torn the the palace. She had been disappointed again by agents she sent out to ravage Keanna. Once done rampaging through the palace she went and sat back down on the throne. She had one more idea. She had millions of spirits at hand to use. The could be sent out to cause havoc and distract the dragons until she was ready for them and started her death walk. She got up from her throne and walked out onto her balcony. There was not a soul in sight. She smiled. That's good she thought. That means they fear me. But her will was supreme here so her voice would be heard through out the realm.
" TO ALL OF YOU IN PRIVATE HELLS. I'M RELEASING YOU AND SENDING YOU OUT AMONG THE LIVING TO TORMENT THEM AND KILL AS MANY AS YOU CAN. I GIVE YOU BACK YOUR PHYSICAL AND ABILITIES. GO DESTROY KEANNA. I COMMAND IT."

Azeal Tyr listened from the palace he used for his command with Baron Valkar at his side in what was once the Celestial Fields, home of the blessed. They looked at each other knowing this meant trouble. Together, they ran from the marble estate Azeal calling for his aides.
" Talin, Lucien! " He called.
From up of the crowd of thousands two spirit came sailing from the crowd to see what there leader wanted.
" You called Azeal?" Lucien bowed to the werewolf
" Yes." He said. " I need you to take a force to the gate and stop anyone from leaving or thousands of murderous spirits will be out terrorizing the world above. I think the time to move is close."
" Yes sir!" Lucien said. " This isn't going to be easy. Some of us spirits won't make it through this. "" We know. But our families will be safe if we can stop her." The Baron told them." That's whats important."
" Yes Lucien. We swore to help stop her." Talin put his hand on his friends arm. " my great grandchildren deserve to live out there live. She wont let the do that."
" I know. Lets get going." Lucien said. " Gather some warriors. We don't have much time. They'll be going out any minute now.
" And I should get back to the Manor." The Baron told his old enemy turning to leave. " There going to want to know about this turn of events."
" Baron." Azeal stopped him." I can't do this along. Only Nestor or one of the others can stand against her. Otherwise, this is all for nothing and she will win."
" I know Azeal." He said." So does Aramis. He made it clear to me he planned to free Alea and Nestor. I've just been so busy here with you, I don't know whats going on in the real world. But don't worry, I'll be as quick as I can with answers."
Willing himself transparent Baron Valkar took to the air and headed for the gate back to the world above. Bellow him he saw all the men they had assembled to fight Muerte. There were thousands of spirits down there. He hoped it would be enough. Ahead of him he saw the gate. A great crimson spiral that was usually one way. But Muerte had opened it so souls could leave now. Stepping through the gate Baron Valkar recognize someone. It was someone that served him when he was alive. Wyland his court mage. One of the most evil men that he had ever met. This wasn't good at all. He knew he would go right back to attacking the werewolves. He had to get Lucien to the gate to stop anyone else from leaving.
[ Lucien!!] He called out. [ You have to hurry. there a line at the gate of spirits leaving.]
[ Here we are!] He heard. [ No one else will be leaving!]
The Baron looked back as he pasted into the gate and saw a battle waging. Lucien had arrived with his troops and was fighting them back. Baron Valkar breathed a sigh of relief. He knew he better hurry. She could make her move anytime and Lucien wouldn't be able to stop her.

Back at the Manor, Aramis stood at the gate with Nestor and Ono. He sent out his probes to try and locate Baron Valkar. He found him on his way back to the Manor and called.
[ Baron. How is everything in the underworld?"
[ Desperate.] He said as he materialized. [ Azeal and I have gather an army to fight Muerte. But we need someone to lead it with godly power.]
He looked at Nestor then back to Aramis.
[ My lord.] He bowed. [ I'm pleased your free.]
" I've been told good things about you and Azeal." Nestor looked at him sternly. " You have my thanks. Both you and Azeal."
" Perhaps we should be on our way." Aramis held out his hand and called to Jax to send him Hazzard. The flaming sword appeared in his hand. " Ready?"
[ Just a minute.] Baron Valkar turned to Ono. [ I have a warning for your father. Tell him Wyland Rusk is free.]
The look of shock on Ono's face told him he knew the name and the history.
" How is that possible?" Nestor asked. " My spells on the gate prevents anyone but those I have exempted from leaving there."
[ Muerte has opened the gate.] The Baron told them.[ We have guards fighting to keep everyone in, but a few made it out before they got there. Someones going to have to catch them and send them back.]
" I'll let everyone now." Ono said. " You better go before she does something worst."
" Wait." Aramis said looking at Hazzard in his hand. " Once we appear in the underworld. Muerte will know we're there. Can you defeat her, Nestor?"
" With that I can." He said reaching for Hazzard. Aramis pulled it away.
" I can't give this to you." He stepped back.
" But that was a part of the plan." He frowned. " I can end this with that."
" No you can't." Aramis told him. " Not down there. If you do, she will become so powerful she will win."
" How do you know this?" Nestor shouted at him
" Father told me." He shouted back." You believe him? Is his word enough for you?"Nestor looked at him in surprise. Rimnar hadn't been heard form in centuries. But if his son said he talked to him, he believed him.
" Lord Rimnar's word will do." He said. " What do you want to do then?"
" If we make a duplicate, do you think she'll know?" Ono asked.
Nestor and Aramis looked at Ono in awe then they both burst out laughing.
" I don't think she'll let it get close enough to tell the difference." Aramis clapped Ono on the back. " She must know how Cressca died by now. She knows we have it I'm sure. It might work. Thank you my prince."
" I can conjure a fake." Nestor said.
" Good. Ono, you get going. You father and Jandar need that information." Aramis gripped his shoulder. " When he and Rage wake. Tell them to be ready.
Lets go."

" Who is this woman?" Angela looked her over. She saw the resemblance between the two of them. Alea had long dark hair and Angela's was pure white now ,but otherwise they could be twin sisters.
" Atol." Alea said. " Is this...?"
" I knew the minute I saw her." He smiled and nodded.
Alea walked around the stunned woman admiring her.
" Can one of you please tell me what is going on here." She was beginning to be annoyed.
" Angela, this is my sister Alea." He said. " Goddess of the moon. And she's.."
" Stop." Alea took her by the hand and walked her to the couch and they sat down, She reached up and touched Angela's face. " Your so beautiful."
" Who are you?"
" I'm your mother." Tears ran from Alea's eyes as she grabbed Angela and pulled her into a hug. Shocked, she just sat there and let this woman hug her, But what she said made no sense to her. How was this possible?
" How can this be?" She asked her. " It can't be true."
" It is true." She pushed the hair from her face. " Years ago I found I was with child. I didn't tell anyone other then my parents who foresaw my greats enemy torturing and killing my child. So I had to hide you from everyone. I think you know what I'm talking about."
" What do you mean?" Angela asked.
" I met my granddaughter outside." She said. " Didn't you do the same thing? You hid her from the exact same enemy. Muerte. I watched Athene for years from above even though I couldn't do much to help. I gave her her dream abilities to protect her. I even sent Jandar to protect her when she needed help."
" What about me when I was imprisoned by my husband?" She asked. " You didn't try and free me?"
" I've been imprisoned too." She said. " And my powers were so limited. But I did send Adam to be your guard and influencing Balthazar was no easy task." 
" I tried to find my parent for years with no clue who they were." Angela was on the verge of tears. " You left me nothing."
" I knew who you would marry. One of her disciples." Alea took her hand. " If he had any idea who you really were what do you think would have happened? Tell me, what would he have done?"
Angela thought for a minute. For years Balthazar had raged about how his goddess hated the moon and the werewolves the moon children. She knew the answer to her question.
" He would have killed me in the most horrible way." She looked deeply in her mothers eyes. She could tell what she was hearing was the truth. " I not sure now to react to all this. I mean what am I? A vampire, a goddess? What?"
" Neither." Atol said as he sat across from them. " I know you've fed all your life on cattle blood. But both your parents are gods. You will need to be presented to Rimnar and Saila to be confirmed."" And then?"
" Then your godly abilities will be available to you." Atol stood and looked at the mother and daughter. " But until then, I want you at New Keanna. The dragon's manor is the safest place for you."
" Why?" Angela asked. " Prafa is safe. Theres no one after me."
" Yes there is." Alea looked at her with worry. " He still wants both you and your children. And if he finds out your my daughter. He will do anything to turn you over to her. Please all three of you should go to the dragons. He wont attack there."
" I will do as you wish mother." Angela hugged Alea. " When do I meet my father?"
" As soon as the underworld is free I will bring him to you." She looked out the window and noticed it was late. Alee would be surprised to see her. " It's time for me to go. Be safe my darling. "
In a flash of light, she was gone. Angela looked at Atol smiling at her.
" I guess your my uncle then?"
" Yes I am." He said. " And so is Jax, Aramis and Alee."
" What do I tell my children about this?" She asked.
" Nothing." He said getting up to leave. He kissed her. " I must go too. Just get them to safety. We'll meet you at the Manor. "
Atol walked toward the door and faded away. Angela sat there thinking about what had just happened to her. She couldn't believe it still. She looked out the window and watched her children talking at the gate. Balthazar had no idea where she was. There was no hurry getting to New Keanna. She would leave in the morning. She walked to the stairs and headed up to her room to rest. Up in the rafted a vampire bat unfolded his wings and dropped down and flew out the window. He had a report to make to his master.

Dragon against Dragon. 61

The council building doors flew open and Insa came running out leaving a trail of smoke behind him. He had just got a warning from Jandar about an eminent attack on Winterhaven by dragons. As he ran down the cobbled street he shifted to smoke and flowed between the people going about there daily business on the streets. He had warned the council, now he was on his way to the city gates to activate the city defenses. as he approached he shifted back to human form and surprised the guards on duty.
" Councilmen Insa." The guard looked at him in dismay. " Is there something we can do for you?"
" Yes." He said. " We're about to be attack. Activate the shields at once!"
" At once sir!!" Spinning on his heels the guard ran to the gate house and started issuing orders to all the guards within. Suddenly a hum could be heard growing through out the city and the skies developed a golden hue as the magical shield covered the city. Just then Fiero dived out of the sky spewing flames at the gate. Everyone on the wall dived for cover as the flames hit the shield and were reflected back at him. Fiero roared out his anger and slammed himself against the shields. As Insa watched the guards all went running from the walls of the gates into the city in terror. The only one to stay at his post was a young elf named Morganz manning the shield controls. Insa quickly ran into the gate house.
" When you hear my roar." He said. " I want you to turn off the shield then switch it back on again."
" Your not going out there?" Morganz said grabbing Insa's arm. " Its suicide."
" Don't worry son. I can handle myself." Insa patted his shoulder. " On my roar. Off, then on, got it?"
" Yes sir." He saluted.
Shifting back to smoke, Insa flew out and up onto the wall. As he watched Arik attacked battering at the shield then pulled back so Fiero could dive in again to flame the shield. The shield was taking a really strong beating. Insa wasn't sure if it could hold out until Rage and Jandar got there. In his smoke form he watched both Fiero and Arik streak back up into the sky to ready another assault. This was his chance. Insa roared and the shields fell. Quickly he took off out of the city as the shields came back on behind him. Now it was up to him to hold off the dragons until help arrived.
[ Rage, you better hurry.] He sent. [ I don't know how long I can hold them.]
[ Insa?] Jandar sent. [ What the hell are you doing?]
[ Giving you time to get here. The shields won't take there attack much longer. Just hurry!!]
[ We're over the bay.] Rage sent. [ Two minutes.]
Soaring up into the sky, Insa formed claws out of his smoky essence and slashed at Fiero's back. Fiero roared in pain as he banked to the side to avoid the smoke cloud. As he pasted he sent a stream of flame at Insa. Quickly becoming smoke the flame went right through him as he turned himself again to slash at the fire dragon. But twisting in the air Fiero managed to angle himself out of the way. Suddenly and a great gust of wind caught Insa and defused his smoke leaving the dragon exposed. As Insa looked up he saw a gout of flame coming at him that he couldn't avoid. This was it, he thought. Suddenly Rage flew out of no where and blocked the the flame with his own. Behind Rage, Insa saw another dragon. This one was golden. He thought it was Shine, but his crest was totally different. This had to be Valen, the first dragon.
[ Get back to the city.] Rage sent. [ You've done your job. Thank you old father! Jandar, take the others down to nthe city. Valen and I will take care them.]
[ Love.] Jandar sent to him. [ You can't kill them. There innocent dragons being control by Muerte.]
[ Then what do suggest I do?]
[ I know exactly what to do.] Jandar sent to both Rage and Valen. [ It won't be easy.]

After explaining his plan to them Jandar,Dreik and Jade headed down to Winterhaven to watch from the gate walls as they took off to battle the two dragons.
[ Valen, you take Fiero.] Rage sent. [ Try and contact him. He's in there fighting to be free, I can feel it.]
[ I know.] Valen said. [ I feel it too. ]
Diving down at Fiero, Valen reached out to see if he could feel his mind. He felt the pain that was driving his brother mad, and a spark of intelligence. He was fighting her. Valen called out to him.
[ Fiero!] He sent. [ Little brother. Its me Valen,]
Fiero shook his head as if to knock the voice out of his mind and sent his flame at the golden dragon. Valen didn't even try to avoid it. He didn't have to. Fiero's flame couldn't hurt him. It never could.
[ Fiero, you have to remember me and your sister Jade. Please!]
[ Sister?] He sent. [ Jade? Remember? No!!]
The red dragon launched himself at Valen only to get knocked away with the batting of his golden wing. Valen wasn't sure talking was doing any good. Maybe Jandar's plan was the only way. In his fist Valen held a piece of the Salvation stone. He would have to get close enough to plant it in his head. He wasn't sure Fiero would let him get that close.
Rage flew head on at Arik and sent a stream of flame towards him that he easily flew around. But as he did, Rage reached out and grabbed his leg throwing him off course. Arik tumbled through the air but caught himself and sent a hard blast of air at Rage. Folding his wings, Rage dropped like a rock until he was under Arik and kicked out hitting him in the chest. Arik roared out in pain and veered of to catch his breathe. But Rage wasn't going to give him that much time. Angling his wings, Rage dived down and slammed into Ariks back then launched himself away.
[ Come and get me Airbag!!]
And Rage took off. Angered, Arik gave chase after him. Unknown to Arik, Rage had just dropped Denner on his back in the form of a spider. So small Arik never noticed he was there. Increasing himself in size, Denner crawled as quickly as he could along the dragons back. As Rage sent gout's of flame back at Arik to keep him distracted from feeling Denner and shaking him off. Denner kept moving. Crawling along Ariks back, Denner found himself on Ariks head. He shifted back to human and slammed his Salvation stone down onto the dragons forehead then dived off shifted to eagle and flew off.
As the Salvation stones magic took affect Arik howled out in pain and dropped fron the sky shifting to human as he fell.
[NO!! ARIK!!] Fiero screamed. Seeing his brother fall was all he needed to destroy the spell. [ Valen save him!!]
Rage dived down folding his wings to his back and was like an arrow moving through the air. As he approached Arik, he reached our and grabbed him out of the air then opened his wings and sailed over the surface of the water. Suddenly a large column of water shot up and Maxius the water dragon appeared. Turning west Rage turned aside to miss him. Looking back he saw Mortimer riding Maxius's back. He climbed forward until he reached his head and place a blue stone on the top of his head. Rage saw him wave as Maxius howled then slipped back under the waves.
[ I got him!] Rage heard. [ Don't worry. I'll get him out of the water and back to shore. Call someone to pick us up.]
[ I'll meet you there and give you a lift.] Rage headed for the shore to wait for the Merman and the passed out dragon.

Opening his eyes Fiero looked up to see Valen sitting in a chair next to his bed. He rubbed his eyes not sure if he was dreaming. He looked around not sure where he was.
" It's not a dream." Valen said leaning over and wiping Fiero's forehead. "Your free of her. She'll never get in your mind again. I promise."
" Arik?" He said. " I saw him fall?"
Valen pointed to the beds next to his. There he saw both Arik and Maxius sleeping soundly.
" Are they alright?"
" They're fine. Slip into there dreams and see." Valen smiled.
Fiero looked at his brothers and remember all that had happened to them. Tears began to run down his face as he turned away from Valen and cried.
" Little brother whats wrong" Valen asked.
" I failed you." He said. " I couldn't protect them."
" Nonsense." Valen said as he got up and sat on the bed next to him." If it wasn't for you. Both of them would be brain dead. You kept them alive and you fought so hard you broke her spell on your own. I felt the pain. Jade and I both did. We know what you endured. I am so proud of you."
" What now?" Fiero asked.
" You three get some sleep." He said. " You need it. You haven't slept in weeks. Let us deal with her. That's an order."
" I don't think I can get out of this bed anyway."
Valen get up and pulled the covers up over his second the ran his hand through his hair.
" Go dream with your brothers. I'll come check on you later." He said as he headed for the door. " Sleep well little brother."
Outside the door Cutter waited for him. Valen held up his finger to keep him quiet and walked him down the hall.
" Does he remember yet?"
" No." Valen told him. " You can make sure they never remember?"
" Yes." Cutter told him. " Don't worry. They won't remember what she made them do until you can help them with the memories."
" Good." Valen said. He looked sad as he turned to head down to Rage and Jandar's study. Muerte had made Fiero and the others do some horrible things. He knew it was time to end this. She had to be stopped.