Ruler of the Skies

The Festival of Light

Members of the High Council and the senior Centurions had been in discussions most of the night. The news from Kaemoora had been the main topic. Prince Anastas had been gathering intelligence and reports about the Animoid raids for some time now. He had been assessing what the correct response should be. The Lizard attack had come as a surprise and needed swift action.

It was late in the day and Anastas had called for an end to the meeting. He retired to one of his private chambers but had asked Melville, Pelliman and Irwin to join him.

“The Festival of Light starts tomorrow. As host, I have commitments here in Conaldra. I need someone with a good military and tactical brain to go to Kaemoora and get first-hand information about what is going on. Plus, I am sending Captain Diego with more troops to reinforce the Gap.” He looked at Melville. “Melville, you have the best military mind I know. Will you do this for me?”

Melville took his time to reply. “I had hoped to go to Daarook.”

“Look. This is important. You can circle back via Daarook if you have time. I need your assistance.” Anastas was insistent.

“I will do as you ask.” With a heavy heart, Melville conceded.

Prince Pelliman added. “I will go as well. The two of us might get a better reading of Prince Xavier and his son, than Melville on his own.”

Anastas was visibly relieved. “Thanks, both of you. There is something I am not seeing here. I just hope Prince Tolgarn is not behind this. I don’t want this to descend into a civil war.”

Prince Irwin was surprised. “You really don’t think that Tolgarn could organise something like this. I didn’t think he was that smart.”

“We should not underestimate Tolgarn or his father.” Melville commented.

“Well, that is settled. Captain Diego has his men ready to move whenever you two are ready.”

“We will be out of the city by midday.” Melville nodded to Pelliman and then rose from his seat. “It’s late and there is much to do. Goodnight gentlemen.”

They all stood, shook hands and then left for their respective rooms.

South of Utway

Jalen was waiting impatiently outside the cave, while Demarco had gone inside to inspect, what could be his new home. The full moon had provided adequate light for the flight over, but now it was sitting low on the horizon. Jalen was thinking the flight back might be more tricky. Suddenly Demarco reappeared at his side.

“Aark. What do you think?” He nervously asked.

“No time to talk. We must fly.” Demarco took to the air. Jalen hastily whistled up the wind and took off after him.

The Cave Dwelling

Ambrose and Jaymar had entered the caves to call the Ancient One, Cargan. While they waited, sitting against the wall of the tunnel, Jaymar asked. “What will happen if the Dark One doesn’t like the new cave?”

“We keep looking. Cargan will not let Demarco keep the necklace. His terms for giving it up are to have a new home. We have to hope that he is satisfied.”

They heard Cargan approaching and both stood up as the Ancient One came into view.

“Cargan, it is good to see you again.” Ambrose greeted him.

Cargan made a huffing sound, ignored Ambrose and reached out his large hand to Jaymar. Jaymar placed his hand in Cargan’s and felt a renewed strength. Cargan then turned to Ambrose. “Where is the Dark One?”

“He has gone to inspect a new cave. I expect him to return any time now.”

“Bring him to me when he returns. The little human and I will wait here.” Cargan sat down with his back to the wall and Jaymar sat by his side.

Ambrose didn’t wait, he turned and headed outside.

Udolf was standing at the entrance.

“Seen anything yet?” Ambrose asked.

“My eyes are not as good as Fineen’s, but I see two specks on the horizon.”

Sure enough, when Ambrose followed Udolf’s gaze, he spotted them, as the sky was starting to brighten with the dawn.

“They’re cutting it fine.” Ambrose thought out loud.

Jalen was finding it hard to keep up with Demarco, after the long night’s flight. They were speeding towards the cave-dwelling as the dawn approached. They were flying very low over the mountains. Demarco was keeping as low as possible, hoping to beat the sun’s rays. They were nearly there.

Darwah and his two followers were desperately looking for a cave to take shelter for the day. When suddenly, he spotted his prey and another creature, flying parallel to them. He immediately forgot about shelter and turned towards them. He signalled to his followers and they split up into attack formation. He headed straight for Demarco.

At the last moment, Demarco saw the attacker and swerved out of Darwah’s path. Jalen, however was caught unawares. One of the Dark Ones hit him square in the back, forcing him down and knocking the wind out of his lungs. The ground was approaching fast, but Jalen quickly recovered, whistled more wind and shot back up, outmanoeuvring his attacker. He performed a quick turn and found his attacker in his sites. He didn’t hesitate and shot two of his arrows from his wrist bows. They found their mark and the Dark One crashed to the ground. An arrow flashed past his head, as another Dark One came racing towards him.

Ambrose and Udolf had seen the Dark One crash to the ground and ran out from the cave entrance to find the body. The battle above was out of reach for them to help. Besides they didn’t have a bow and Ambrose needed to be closer to use his Elemental powers. When they reached the body, the battle between Demarco and Darwah was raging above. They had locked arms, short swords drawn, both trying to land a blow. Darwah had orders to bring Demarco back alive, but that was going to be difficult. Their wings were flapping hard, trying to keep both of them in the air. Jalen and the other Dark One were shooting arrows at each other from a distance. Ambrose chanced his arm and threw a fireball at the Dark One, but it easily dodged it.

Cargan and Jaymar had heard the commotion. Cargan just growled, but Jaymar jumped up and ran outside to see what was happening. He saw Demarco and another Dark One close to the entrance, locked in battle. They were slowly losing height as their combined weight was too much to keep them in the air.

The Dark One fighting Jalen, realised that he was outnumbered with Ambrose causing him to dodge fireballs, as Jalen fired arrows in his direction. So, he broke away and headed for his leader. Together they could overpower Demarco.

As Demarco and Darwah got closer to the ground, Jaymar decided to act. He commanded the wind and directed a blast of air at the two Dark Ones. It caught them by surprise, knocking them sideways. It gave Demarco just enough room to break away from Darwah. Jaymar saw the other Dark One approaching Demarco rapidly. He quickly formed a fireball and threw it in their direction. His aim was not the best and it was going for Demarco. He dodged it easily, but in fact it turned out to be a perfect line for the other Dark One and it hit him on his leg. He squealed and brushed the flames away with little damage. It gave Demarco time to escape and dive into the cave entrance. Darwah was about to follow when he was hit by another blast of air. Ambrose and Udolf had come running back. Ambrose commanded the air as he ran. Darwah and the other Dark One saw that they had lost their chance, and both quickly rose up out of harm’s way. They soon disappeared over a crest.

Ambrose and Udolf joined Jaymar just below the cave entrance.

“That was close. Are you alright?” Ambrose asked.

“Yes. I’m fine. Here comes Jalen.” Jaymar pointed behind them. The birdman landed a couple of metres away and fell to his knees exhausted. Ambrose and Udolf helped him to his feet and they all climbed the steps and entered the caves. Just inside, they let Jalen sit down against the wall.

“Jaymar, can you help him recover?”

Jaymar nodded and sat next to the birdman. He placed one hand on the cave wall and the other on Jalen’s forehead.

“Remember to control your powers.” Ambrose watched on.

Jalen was soon feeling better. “Aark. Thanks. Jaymar.” He blinked his large eyes and looked up at Ambrose. “They came out of nowhere.”

“A scouting party.” They all turned to see two red eyes gleaming in the dark. Demarco stepped closer. He looked at Jaymar and said. “Thank you.”

Ambrose interrupted. “They will be back. Looks like you will be moving after all.”

Demarco agreed. “The new cave will do. We will leave tonight.”

“Cargan will want to see you. He is waiting inside.” Ambrose indicated that they should go.

“Udolf, please stay with Jalen while we go inside?”

Udolf just groaned, as Ambrose, Jaymar and Demarco headed further into the caves.

Darwah was desperate. The sun was about to rise over the mountains. Then he saw it. A small dark crack below. He dived down followed by the other Dark One. They just made it. It was a tiny cave, just big enough for the two of them.

“We have found them. Tonight, we will get the others and return for them.” Darwah snarled.

“Surely, they will be gone.”

“They will not get far.” Darwah settled down to wait out the day.

Demarco was facing Cargan with Ambrose and Jaymar standing to one side.

“What have you decided?” Cargan asked.

“The Day Walker has found a cave for us. We will move when it is dark outside.”

“And the gem?” Cargan pressed.

“The little Day Walker came to my aid. I shall give it to him.” Demarco reached into his pouch and produced the necklace.

“I don’t think that is wise.” Ambrose interrupted. “He is still young and learning to control his powers.”

“The little human is strong. He will hold the gem until an owner can be found.” Cargan was insistent.

Demarco stepped closer to Jaymar and handed him the necklace. Jaymar took it and felt a strange tingling.

“Thank you again.” Demarco gave Ambrose one last look and then walked out of the cave back to his family group.

“I shall leave you now. Goodbye, little human.” Cargan turned and went through the large hole in the wall. Jaymar was still trying to understand all that had happened.

“You will need to keep that hidden.” Ambrose broke the silence. “Only the one large tooth is the actual gem. So, let’s get it off the necklace. Come, Udolf can help.” The two left to join the others outside.

The dawn sun was now shining brightly outside as they returned to the entrance.

“Udolf. Can you help? Jaymar needs to separate the large tooth from the necklace.” Ambrose asked.

Jaymar held the necklace out for Udolf. He snarled as he drew his short axe from its holster on his back. He took the necklace and walked over to a rock. Placed it down and swung his axe down on the twine holding the necklace together. There was a loud bang and sparks flew from where the axe slammed into the rock. He repeated the process and then walked back holding just the single large tooth.

“Here.” He gave it back to Jaymar.

“Thanks.” Jaymar once again felt a tingling sensation. He passed it from hand to hand as he gave it a good look, before putting it into his pocket.

“Once we get you home.” Ambrose stepped closer. “Find a safe place to store it. I don’t want you carrying it around in your pocket all the time.” Jaymar nodded his understanding.

Ambrose continued. “Let’s rest and have something to eat. I want to wait here and make sure Demarco and his family leave safely tonight.”

“Aark. Food sounds good.” Jalen perked up and the rest laughed, except Udolf of course.

Pukavan

Pryborg and Nasrald were standing on a ridge. Pukavan was on the horizon, shimmering in the morning sunlight.

“Will the Lancers come out to meet us?” Pryborg asked.

“They are expecting us, but they would prefer we enter the city after dark. We can go closer, but I alone will enter at dusk. I will then bring the Lancers out to meet you.”

Pryborg disagreed. “I will go with you. I am a Centurion. I can go where I like.”

Nasrald licked his lips. “You can do as you wish, but don’t expect a warm welcome. At least I can prepare the way for you.”

Pryborg considered Nasrald’s statement. “I’ve already been delayed. I suppose it won’t hurt to wait a little longer.” He turned and walked back to the rest of the negotiating party.

Nasrald was pleased that the Centurion had changed his mind. Now he could warn not only the Princess, but the others of the pending arrival of a Centurion.

Conaldra

“I thought we were going to Daarook to get Ava.” Princess Isabella was not happy that her husband was heading to Kaemoora. Melville had not told her last night as it was very late. Now as he prepared to leave, Isabella was giving him an ear full.

“Why isn’t Anastas going?”

“I already explained. He has the Festival of Light to run. It won’t take long. I’ll be back before you know it.” He tried to console his wife.

“The longer she is there, the harder it will be to get her out. You know this. Why are you getting involved in this thing? Whatever it is, between Anastas and Xavier. There brothers, let them sort it out.” She was pacing now.

“Please darling, don’t make it any harder for me. I know we came for Ava. We will get her, but right now, I’m obliged to check out what is happening with these Animoid and Lizard attacks.”

“Don’t take too long, or I’ll go on my own.”

Melville walked over and gave her a hug.

“I’ll be a quick as I can. Please, at least enjoy the Festival of Light, while you are here.”

“Sure, on my own.” She countered.

“Spend some time getting to know Imogene. You never know.” Melville gave her a smile.

“Theodor will make up his own mind.” Isabella couldn’t help but return a smile.

“They would make a lovely couple.”

“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. They are still young.”

“I’m ready.” Melville changed the topic. Isabella gave him a reluctant kiss on the cheek.

“Don’t be long.”

Melville and Isabella broke apart. Melville picked up a saddlebag, a hat and left the room. Outside he was met by two of his Tamplina Rangers. They proceeded to the parade ground to join the waiting troops.

Prince Pelliman and Captain Diego were already mounted on their horses. Melville soon joined them and the Captain gave the orders to move out. It would take them the best part of four days to reach Kaemoora.

Mountains South of Kaemoora

Centurion Santos was standing on a ridge overlooking the country below which stretched out North to the sea and Kaemoora. Also, not far below him, were Uparta and his Lizard soldiers. They were working their way up a ridge towards his position. Soon they were making camp and Uparta joined the Centurion.

“No one is on your tail. So to speak.” Santos quipped.

“No one wants to challenge us. They are weak.” Uparta snarled.

“Well let’s rattle the cage a bit more. The Dark Ones will be in position tonight. Tomorrow, I will darken the sky and they will attack Trameal, on the coast. I want you to go straight to Aerie and lay a siege.”

“I don’t have enough men to lay a siege around a large city.” Uparta commented.

“You don’t need to surround it. Just set up camp on their front door. That will scare them enough. Plus, I will get the Dark Ones to fly past after Trameal, adding to their fears.”

“Where are the Animoids?”

“Prince Tolgarn and his combined forces of Animoids and militia will be in Aerie soon enough to scare you off.”

“What about Conaldra and the High Prince?”

“Spies have informed me that a force is readying to leave Conaldra for Kaemoora, in response to your latest attack. They are falling into our trap.”

“When we are finished in Aerie. What then?” Uparta changed the topic.

“Return to the mountains and await Tahmore’s orders.”

“This is taking too long. I will only wait so long.”

“You will do as you are told.” Santos glared at Uparta before marching off in the direction of a cave, where he was due to meet Calzar that night.

A discontented Uparta re-joined his men.

Pukavan

The sun was setting and Nasrald was already at the city gate. He was waiting for an opportunity to slip through. There was plenty of traffic going in through the gate as it was getting dark fast. The four guards were nearing the end of their shift and getting a bit lazy. A large group with two wagons had just pulled up and all four guards decided to chat to the drivers. Nasrald took the opportunity and slipped through unnoticed.

The first thing he wanted to do, was warn Ambrose and tell him about the Centurion. If he didn’t already know. He would check the Inns near the waterfront first. It didn’t take long for him to find out that Ambrose was away. No one had seen him for a couple of days. One Innkeeper suggested he talk to the commander of the Golden Swan. Maybe he would know more.

Nasrald found his way to where Raum & Grimhilda were staying and knocked on the door, unsure of what he would find. Grimhilda was shocked when she opened the door. She remembered Nasrald from the voyage on the Golden Swan, but had little to do with him.

“Mistress. Is your husband at home?”

“Ah. No.” She hesitated. “Come in.” She signalled Nasrald to enter. He reluctantly hurried past her into what looked like a lounge room.

“I cannot stay. I must go to the palace.” He started talking as Grimhilda closed the door and joined him in the room.

“Why are you looking for my husband?” She inquired.

“I was hoping he would know where Ambrose was.” He stopped short of telling her the reason he was looking for Ambrose.

“My husband is sailing the Golden Swan to Gymbala with replacement troops. Ambrose went to a place somewhere between Pukavan and Lockmort. You may know of it.”

“Yes. Thank you. Now I must go.” Nasrald was in a hurry and felt awkward being alone with Grimhilda.

“Is the Princess expecting you? Should I go with you?” Grimhilda was trying to offer him support.

“No thank you. I am expected.” He hesitated then added. “A Centurion is outside the city and will see the Princess tonight.”

Grimhilda displayed alarm at the news. “We must warn Ambrose. My son is with him.”

“I cannot leave the city now. I am part of a negotiating party from Lockmort. I must go.” He headed for the door. She wanted to stop him, but instead asked. “Where will I find them? Can you give me directions? Please?”

Nasrald thought for a moment. “Come with me to the palace. The Captain of the Guard knows where the caves are.” He licked his lips and motioned towards the door. Grimhilda nodded, grabbed a shawl from near the door and they left together for the palace.

Between Pinemarsh and Kaemoora

General Loktah and Prince Tolgarn were in the Prince’s tent, sipping wine. Their joint forces had made camp for the night.

“News of the Lizard attacks has spread like wildfire. The growing fear will make our job easier.” Tolgarn was brimming with confidence.

“I want to leave a company of troops here. Our main force will now march for Aerie.”

“What about Kaemoora?” Loktah asked.

“None of your Animoids are to set foot in Kaemoora.” Tolgarn snapped at him. “The Dark Ones are going to attack Trameal. I want a company of your Animoids to go with a platoon of my militia and secure the city after the attack.”

“That will spread my forces a bit thin.” Loktah commented.

“Don’t worry, it will only be for a short while.” Tolgarn took a sip of his wine. “After we have secured Aerie, we will march the majority of our combined forces back to the Gap. Then we will get Anastas attention.”

Loktah just nodded and slurped his wine.

Pukavan

Commander Prahid had been summoned by the guards. There was an odd couple wanting to see the Princess. When he arrived, he found Nasrald and Grimhilda waiting patiently, but they were separated by a couple of nervous guards. Prahid knew the negotiating party from Lockmort was due to arrive any time now, but he was surprised to see Grimhilda.

“Madam.” He nodded his head in respect, as he greeted her. He ignored Nasrald and continued. “What brings you to the palace?”

“Commander. Nasrald has some important news and I need your help.”

Prahid was intrigued. “How can I help you?”

“Perhaps it would be better if we talked to Princess Sienna.” She paused, waiting for Prahid to respond and then she added. “It is important.”

Prahid looked at Nasrald and then signalled for the guards to leave them.

“Follow me.” He instructed the couple as he led the way.

They found Princess Sienna and Elemental Rosalina in one of the many rooms dotted along the corridor they walked along.

“Your Highness. Sorry to interrupt but these two apparently have some important news for you.” Prahid bowed his head slightly and gestured to the two visitors.

Sienna immediately greeted Nasrald with a handshake. “Nasrald, welcome, we were expecting you.”

“Your Highness.” Nasrald bowed in respect.

Sienna then turned to Grimhilda. “Hello, good to see you again. Has something happened?”

“Your Highness.” Grimhilda bowed. “I think I’ll let Nasrald explain first.” Everyone turned their attention to Nasrald.

The lizard medium licked his lips. “The negotiating party is just outside your city gates, but we have an unexpected traveller with us. A Centurion by the name of Pryborg. He was detained trying to cross Lizard territory and taken to Lockmort. He has been a guest of my uncles for several days. He claims to be an emissary of the High Centurion, but has not divulged his mission.”

“Well, this is interesting news.” Sienna turned to Rosalina. “Do you know Centurion Pryborg?”

“I do.” Interrupted Grimilda. “Sorry, Your Highness, but he has been chasing us ever since Ambrose and my family fled our home in Little Haven.” Grimhilda was clearly worried that Pryborg had somehow tracked them all the way to Pukavan.

“Your Highness. I have heard of Pryborg. He is a senior investigator aligned to Centurion Oban.” Rosalina added.

Sienna looked at Nasrald. “He has not given any indication that he is after Ambrose?” Nasrald replied.

“Or Jaymar.” Grimhilda added.

“None.” Nasrald continued. “He has only expressed an urgency to return to Daarook for the Centurion Duma.”

“All Centurions would be starting to make arrangements to return to Daarook. He will be cutting it fine, leaving from here.” Rosalina pointed out.

“Well, we won’t detain him. Let’s hear him out and then let him be on his way as quickly as possible.” Sienna decided.

“Your Highness. We need to warn Ambrose and my son that he is here.” Grimhilda interrupted again. “I was hoping Commander Prahid would help me.”

“What do you need?” Sienna asked.

“Someone to lead me to the place where Ambrose met the Ancient One.”

“The cave-dwelling. What’s Ambrose doing out there again?” Prahid was suspicious.

“I don’t know, but we need to warn him. I will go if someone will take me.” Grimhilda implored the Princess.

“Commander. Have a small escort take Grimhilda to these caves. Nasrald, you can go and bring your negotiating party and the Centurion into the city. Commander, go with him. I will be waiting when you return.” Sienna concluded the meeting.

Gymbala

It was late at night and Tabitha was standing in a small group of trees looking at Gymbala. She had made good progress, but was needing something to boost her energy levels. The grass, she had been feeding on was not enough, as she had been travelling hard. She really wanted some grain. She didn’t want to enter the city without some assistance. Through the ‘Keepers’ network, she knew that Elemental Arkana was one of the leaders in Gymbala. She just had to work out a way to contact him and see if he would help.

The Golden Swan

Raum was standing at the helm and Rafeeq was balancing on a railing nearby.

“Eeek. When will we get there?” Rafeeq had been annoying Raum most of the day. Constantly wanting to know when they would be in Gymbala.

“You really are a pest. Tomorrow at dawn. Now go away and don’t annoy me again.” Raum was exasperated.

“Tomorrow then. Eeek.” Rafeeq swung down from the railing and skipped along the deck, chattering as he went.

Topol came up from below, passing Rafeeq as he approached his commander.

“I think we will all be relieved when we dock in Gymbala.” Topol gave Raum a wry smile.

“Sometimes he is worse than a child.” Raum handed over the helm and stepped aside.

“How are the troops travelling?” He changed the topic.

“Fine. I think they are all eager to get there and start their assignment.”

“We won’t stay long. I do want to pick up some cargo and make contact again with some of the local merchants. I will leave you to manage the changeover of the troops.”

“Aye.”

Raum left Topol at the helm and went below to his cabin.

Pukavan

Nasrald and the Commander had travelled out of the city with Grimhilda and her escort, but they soon split up. Grimhilda didn’t want the Centurion knowing anything about her being in the city. She and her escort would travel for several hours into the night before making camp.

After Nasrald had introduced Command Prahid to Pryborg and confirmed they had permission to enter Pukavan, they broke camp and set out for the city. The streets were quiet by the time they made their way to the palace.

Sienna and Rosalina were waiting in one of the larger meeting rooms and had been joined by a number of Sienna’s other advisors. Nasrald, Pryborg and the negotiating party were ushered straight in under Prahid’s orders.

Nasrald started the introductions by introducing the Lockmort negotiators. He then handed over to Commander Prahid to introduce Pryborg.

“Your Highness. This is Centurion Pryborg. He has recently come from Gymbala via Lockmort.”

“Welcome all. Thank you for coming all this way.” Sienna directed her welcome to the negotiators. “I am pleased that another round of negotiations can proceed. Centurion, I also welcome you. We don’t often see Centurions this far west. May I ask, what is the reason you have ventured this far?”

Pryborg had been patient and now bowed to the Princess. “Your Highness. I have been investigating the horrendous attacks on both Volkmire and Gymbala. In fact, I was able to help in the defence of Gymbala, during another recent unsuccessful attack. I must commend your archers for their bravery and skill in defence of the city.”

“Thank you. Centurion.” Sienna bowed her head slightly in response.

“Your Highness. May I have your permission, to question your troops, which were in Gymbala during the first attack?” He locked eyes with the Princess. She returned his stare.

“What do you hope to find out?” She didn’t blink.

“I am sorry Your Highness. I am an emissary of the High Centurion and not at liberty to discuss Elemental business. I do have one other request. I need to travel quickly back to Daarook for the Centurion Duma. I would like to commission a ship for passage to Tamplina.” A hush fell over the room.

“Centurion I agree with your requests. However, I have two requests of my own. Commander Prahid and Elemental Rosalina will be present while you question my troops. You will not set foot outside this palace while you are here and you will sail in two days’ time.”

Pryborg was about to protest, but in the end, just bowed his head in acknowledgment.