Ruler of the Skies

Conaldra

Prince Melville and Prince Pelliman had arrived back in the city. They immediately reported their findings to Prince Anastas. Rumours were pouring in about Prince Tolgarn and his army sweeping across the East. The large numbers of Animoids joining his army had been one of the most talked about items of concern.

The three Princes and some of their military advisors had gathered to review the latest.

“It’s looking more and more like Prince Tolgarn is massing a considerable army. Reports are that after a short stay in Aerie, he is now moving West.” Melville briefed the group.

“Do we know his intended destination?” Asked Anastas.

“He could be heading back to Kaemoora.” Observed Pelliman.

“Let’s hope so. If he goes past and continues West, then we must assume he is heading for the Gap.” Melville commented.

They all contemplated the hidden meaning behind his comment.

“Let’s not jump to conclusions just yet, but I concede reinforcing the Gap has been prudent.” Anastas then change the topic. “What about the Dark Terror attacks? Any more news?”

One of the advisors spoke up. “No more attacks have been reported since they left Aerie, Your Highness.”

“Would they be bold enough to attack the Gap?” Pelliman asked. His question was left unanswered as the meeting broke up. Prince Anastas had other matters to attend to.

Ravenshowl

Ambrose stood in front of Princess Aliyah, flanked by two Panther guards. The Captain of her Panthers, Bahkool, stood to one side. Princess Aliyah was seated in a high back ornate chair. Aliyah’s two Elementals, Ringana a Fire Elemental and Levon an Earth Elemental were standing on either side.

The Captain bowed. “Your Highness. We found him poking around deep in the catacombs. He was looking at some of your ancestor’s tombs.” Aliyah looked Ambrose over a couple of times, and then a realisation came across her face.

“Ah. I know this man. You visited a couple of times when I was a child.”

“Your Highness Princess Aliyah. Excuse my unorthodox arrival. My name is Ambrose and I was not poking around. I entered your catacombs via a tunnel deep within the mountain.”

“What were you doing in the tunnel system, Master Ambrose? I thought the maze of tunnels was a very dangerous place.”

“Your Highness. They are indeed. I had the help of an Ancient One, a rock man.”

Elemental Levon gasped at the revelation. Aliyah raised her hand for silence and indicated for Ambrose to continue.

“His name is Cargan. We are searching for the camp of the Animoid Army.” Ambrose didn’t want to tell Aliyah everything, just yet.

“What? Do you believe these Animoids know how to traverse the tunnels?” Aliyah expressed her concern.

“No. Your Highness. But, I do know for a fact, that their leader was using the tunnels to communicate with his army.”

“This is getting even more intriguing. Bahkool, I think we had better keep this conversation confidential. So, you can dismiss your guards. I don’t believe Master Ambrose poses a threat.” She bared her teeth in a wry smile. Bahkool ordered the guards to leave. He then stepped closer to Ambrose.

“Now, Master Ambrose, tell me everything about the tunnels, the Animoid army and their supposed leader.”

“Your Highness. May I ask a couple of questions before I reveal all?” Ambrose was feeling a little more relaxed.

Aliyah tilted her head to one side, as she pondered his question. “I suppose it depends on the questions. You can start with one question. I will then be the judge, if you get another.”

“Your Highness. Are there any Animoids in your ancestry?” Bahkool bristled and Aliyah snarled.

“That is an impertinent question.” She paused to calm herself. “Yes. A couple of my ancestors married Animoids and my grandfather’s brother was an Animoid. You should carefully consider your next question.”

“Your Highness. I meant no offence. What was the name of your grand uncle?”

“His name was Dahlmor. And if you must know, he was a jackal Animoid like myself. Now, enough of your questions. Tell me what you are up to?” Ambrose composed himself and decided to tell her everything.

“Your Highness. I am a leader of the ‘Keepers’ organisation.”

Elemental Levon blurted out. “You traitor.”

Aliyah interrupted. “Quiet. I will hear him out.” They all fell silent. Aliyah signalled for Ambrose to continue.

“Your Highness. I found out about the Animoid army over a year ago. I knew they were massing in the mountains, but not their actual location. I also discovered that someone high up in the Centurion Order, or even the Head Master, was their ultimate leader. This person would travel through the tunnel system from behind Daarook to see and communicate with his army. I also believe this person was assisting and directing the Dark Terror attacks, which took place against Volkmire and Gymbala. I was in Gymbala during the first attack. The thunderstorms, used to protect the Dark Ones during the attacks, would require a coordinated Elemental effort and I believe Centurion involvement. I accidentally met the Ancient, Cargan and he agreed to help me traverse the tunnel system. Recently, we blocked the tunnel, which comes from behind Daarook, in an attempt to disrupt communications between the leader, the Animoid army and the Dark Terror. I came to your catacombs looking for any reference to a name, but I was interrupted by your guards. The name may help reveal who the leader is.”

“Well, Ambrose you tell an interesting story. I have been puzzled about the Dark Terror attacks and my guards have been scouting the mountains behind Ravenshowl, looking for any sign of the Animoid army.” She paused. “Tell me what name are you looking for?”

“Tahmore.” There was no reaction from Aliyah to the name.

“Why search through my ancestor’s tombs?”

“I have been searching through the annals of history, looking for any reference to Tahmore. I have found nothing. A very wise friend of mine, did however, come up with two names of interest. Talimar and Dahlmor, both of who are ancestors of yours.”

These two names got Aliyah’s attention and she sat forward in her chair.

“You have sparked my interest, Master Ambrose. It is getting late. You will join us for dinner. We can sit and be a bit more comfortable while we discuss my family tree.”

“Your Highness. I would be honoured.” Ambrose bowed low.

Aliyah stood and indicated for all of them to follow her, as she led the way to her private dining room.

The dining room had a large table capable of seating over twenty people. Princess Aliyah had some servants set up one end of the table and bring them dinner. She sat at the head of the table. The two Elementals sat on her right. Ambrose was directed to sit on her left with Bahkool seated next to him.

“You seem to be well versed in history, Master Ambrose. Let’s start around the Animoid Uprising. What do you know about Prince Hakeem?”

Ambrose finished his mouth full. He needed to be careful, as to how much knowledge he revealed. “Prince Hakeem was the ruler of Ravenshowl and most of the land to the South. Including Volkmire and Gymbala, I think.”

“Yes. Only the High Prince of the West ruled over more territory. Of course, there was another small Princedom. The city state of Falsbrook. Ruled by Prince Jarl’s ancestor, Philippe. Much like himself, his ancestor was a tyrant.”

She paused for a moment. “Hakeem was married to an Animoid. The village she came from and her family were massacred by Philippe’s troops in a minor border raid. Hakeem was outraged. He had a Centurion advisor at the time, who was very influential.”

“Centurion Sullikana?” Elemental Ringana asked.

“Yes. Unbeknown to Hakeem, Sullikana had rebelled against the Centurion Order and was essentially in hiding. He had established a small army of followers, including several powerful Elementals and he had them hidden in the foothills just north of Ravenshowl. Sullikana had been slowly poisoning Hakeem’s mind against the High Prince of the West. He used the massacre as a tipping point. Hakeem retaliated and attacked Falsbrook. The siege lasted a couple of moon cycles until Sullikana decided to reveal his hand. The additional troops and Elementals swung the balance and Falsbrook fell. All-out war then broke out between Hakeem and the High Prince of the West. Hakeem’s army of mostly Animoid swept north, right to the doorsteps of both Tamplina and Middleton. A stalemate developed with attack and count attack ensuing but with no one landing the decisive blow. Finally, the Centurion Order was forced to take sides and shortly after, the Animoid Uprising was over. Hakeem and Sullikana were both killed. Ravenshowl lost most of its territory and with no heir, Hakeem’s younger brother, at age 15, became Prince.”

“Was his name Talimar?” Asked Ambrose.

“Correct. Over the next few generations, the rulers of Ravenshowl managed to re-establish control, but over a much smaller realm. Ravenshowl was struggling to build an effective militia. Falsbrook had been rebuilt and was growing stronger. To counter the ever-present threat from Falsbrook, the ruler of Ravenshowl at the time, decided he needed an elite fighting force quickly. There was a village, between Ravenshowl and Volkmire, were a tribe of Black Panther Animoids lived. It had always been a source of excellent warriors. The Black Panther chieftain and Ravenshowl brokered an agreement to rapidly develop a force of Black Panthers, to become the exclusive army of Ravenshowl. As part of the deal, the Prince agreed to marry the chieftain’s daughter, a Black Panther Animoid. Their first child was an Animoid and his name was Dahlmor. He, however, was not a Black Panther, but a black Jackal. There was also a younger brother, Adebayo, who was not an Animoid. At the age of 12, Dahlmor started showing signs of having Elemental powers. After the test confirmed his ability in one Element, the Head Master of the High School for Elementals refused to accept Dahlmor into the High School. Homeschooling was the only option. In his second year of homeschooling, it became apparent that Dahlmor could command a second Element and he was displaying traits of being a Medium.”

“A Medium, are you sure?” Queried Ambrose.

“His mind powers over animals were apparently exceptional. This all culminated into a major issue when it came time for Dahlmor to be confirmed as the heir to the Ravenshowl Princedom. For two years, Dahlmor’s father tried many times to get approval from the High Council of Mikaia, but a decision kept being deferred. Ultimately, the High Council of Mikaia was forced into making a decision when Dahlmor’s father suddenly died, just before Dahlmor’s eighteenth birthday. The Council decided to confirm Adebayo, his younger brother instead. Adebayo is my grandfather and was age fifteen at the time.”

“What did Dahlmor do?” Asked Ambrose.

“He was said to be very bitter. However, he supported his brother and stayed for Adebayo’s investiture, and then he vanished.” Aliyah fell silent. There was a long pause while everyone dwelled on what Aliyah had revealed.

“Your Highness. Is that why there is no tomb with Dahlmor’s name on it?” Ambrose broke the silence.

She stared at him with unblinking eyes. “Why are you so interested in Dahlmor’s tomb?”

“I was looking for any connection between Talimar, Dahlmor and the name Tahmore. I thought there may have been an inscription on the tombs. I was unsure.”

“So, you have found nothing. What were you going to do next?” Asked Ringana.

Ambrose thought for a moment. “I was probably going to then search through Princess Aliyah’s family history in her substantial library.”

“Why didn’t you ask Her Highness for permission in the first place?” Countered Ringana.

“That was a mistake and I apologise, Your Highness. However, as I have already stated, I am a leader of the ‘Keepers’ organisation. I could hardly present myself without being discovered.”

Aliyah continued to stare at Ambrose. He was starting to feel uncomfortable.

“I accept your apology. It is late. Bahkool will find you somewhere to sleep overnight and we will reconvene in my substantial library in the morning.” She stood up and left the other still seated around the table. Bahkool indicated for Ambrose to follow him. Ambrose bowed slightly to the two Elementals before following Bahkool out of the room.

Levon turned to Ringana. “The ‘Keepers’ organisation is outlawed, shouldn’t we report this latest development to Daarook?”

Ringana stood up. “Let’s wait to see what tomorrow brings. Our allegiance lies more with Princess Aliyah than Daarook.” She then left the room.

Pukavan

Jaymar was bored, the days with Rosalina were spent on simple mind control and some Elemental development, but she couldn’t help him much in the areas outside her own element. Ambrose had left strict instructions not to go flying but Jaymar had decided he really wanted to try out the new backpack, which had been sitting idle.

After breakfast with his mum and dad, he went to the palace and found Rosalina in her rooms.

“Hi Jaymar, another beautiful day. What would you like to do today?” Rosalina greeted him as he entered her room.

“Hello. Well, it is such a good clear day, how about I try out the new backpack.” He glanced at Rosalina sideways trying to gauge her reaction.

“No flying. Ambrose was very clear.”

“But surely you want to see how it works and besides it’s a bright clear morning. Surely, there is no danger from the Dark Terror. I will only take it out for a short flight.” He gave her a cheeky smile.

“Don’t try your charm on me. Ambrose said no. That is the end of it. Now, what about practising with water?” She changed the topic.

Jaymar’s shoulders slumped and he realised she would not be persuaded. He needed to think of another way. He walked over and picked up a bucket and went to fill it so he could practice his water skills.

Tahmore Revealed

The next morning, after a restless night and a light breakfast, Ambrose was led by Bahkool to the library. Aliyah and the two Elementals were already there.

“Welcome Master Ambrose. I hope you had a good night’s rest. Where would you like to start?

“Thank you, Your Highness. I am intrigued by Dahlmor. Can we start with him?”

Aliyah walked over to one of many bookshelves and scanned a number of books, before pulling one out and returning to a table. She opened the book and beckoned Ambrose to join her.

“This should have everything about Dahlmor, from birth to disappearance.”

They both scanned the pages of the substantial book, only turning the page once they both agreed they had completed the page. Occasionally, they would stop. One would point to a paragraph and the other, would look more closely. They would exchange comments and then move on.

They came to the section when Dahlmor was twelve. Ambrose was very interested in the detail about his Elemental test. He was found to control only one element, Fire at the test.

Ambrose commented. “The description of the test and its outcome seem very scant. I am not even sure from reading this that the test was performed correctly. It infers that the test was rushed and performed by a novice Elemental. How do you interpret this section?”

Aliyah agreed, but called Elemental Ringana over for her to have a look.

“I agree with Master Ambrose, Your Highness.” She stepped back.

Aliyah and Ambrose continued reading. The next section they read was when Dahlmor was fourteen and being homeschooled. Daarook had sent a Centurion to conduct the training.

“Here.” Ambrose pointed to a paragraph on the page. ”The Centurion records the development of Dahlmor’s second element. It was Earth. The Centurion is disturbed by this development and asks Daarook for guidance.”

Aliyah continued. “The next section details his exceptional mind control over animals and birds. The Centurion looks like he is increasingly concerned and is frequently asking Daarook, what he should do.”

Ringana interrupted. “Of course, we all know that the Centurion Order is very suspicious of Mediums. What was their response?”

Ambrose then read a section. “A message arrived today from Daarook. Signed by the High Centurion. It seems to be a coded message and the scribe didn’t understand it. However, I am certain it infers, ‘the boy must die’.”

Both Aliyah and Ringana re-read the section as silence fell over the group.

Aliyah eventually broke the silence. “From the next section, it is obvious that Dahlmor’s father understood it. There is a fight between the Centurion and his Elemental advisors, backed up by the local militia. Strange, that the Elemental advisors would side with the Prince.”

Ambrose looked sideways at Ringana as she commented. “It is not unheard of. It is recorded that the Centurion got away and relations between Daarook and Ravenshowl descended to an all-time low.”

“Yes.” Aliyah observed. “Any chance of Dahlmor becoming the next ruler of Ravenshowl was dashed. Dahlmor’s father tries in vain to anoint his firstborn as his rightful heir, but in the end, dies trying.”

“Is there any reference to the cause of his death?” Asked Ambrose.

Aliyah turned the page. “It only mentions he died suddenly in his sleep. The standard morning period of one moon cycle was observed. Adebayo, my grandfather and Dahlmor’s younger brother was then endorsed by both the High Council of Mikaia and The High Centurion, as the next ruler of Ravenshowl. He was crowned Prince shortly after.” Aliyah was about to close the book when Ambrose stopped her.

“Your Highness, there are a few more pages. May I?” Aliyah nodded, and Ambrose turned the next page. There was nothing of significance. Only details about Adebayo and his first days as Prince. As Ambrose went to turn the next page he noticed a small note in the margin at the bottom of the page.

Ambrose read it out. ’Princess Moree tried to stop Dahlmor entering the tunnels.’

“Who was Princess Moree?”

“Dahlmor’s mother and my great grandmother.”

Ambrose turned the page. There was only a single statement at the top of the final page.

’Dahlmor, beloved son of Princess Moree has disappeared. Prince Adebayo is distraught at the loss of his brother.’

Ambrose asked. “How long had your ancestors known about the tunnels?”

“More than 500 years. When the catacombs were being enlarged, they stumbled upon a tunnel opening.”

“Did they explore them?”

“Of course. Many went in and never came out. It was deemed too dangerous and I think it was Prince Hakeem’s grandfather that eventually decreed no one was allowed to enter them again.”

Once again, the group fell silent.

“Have you seen enough, Master Ambrose? It is nearing midday.” Aliyah asked.

“For now, Your Highness. I need to think about what we have read.”

“Come. We will go and discuss this further over lunch.” Aliyah indicated for the group to follow her.

Back in the dining room, they settled around the table; as servants began bringing out food and wine.

“Master Ambrose. What are you thinking?” Element Ringana started the discussions.

“Before you answer that, Master Ambrose. I have been meaning to ask, why did your friend think the names of Talimar and Dahlmor were of interest, in regard to your search?”

“My friend obtained a drawing of your family tree.” Ambrose started to explain.

“From where?” Interrupted Aliyah.

“The library in Tamplina. It was badly damaged. The family tree ended with Dahlmor, but the odd thing was, that on closer inspection of the name. It looks like the name Talimar have been written first and then Dahlmor written over it. The combined words almost looked like Tahmore without the ‘e’.

“What a coincidence? So, you immediately jumped to the conclusion that Dahlmor is, in fact, this mysterious leader of the Animoid army, Tahmore.” Ringana observed.

“No. I didn’t jump to any conclusion. However, it did make me want to learn more about Dahlmor. It is interesting that Dahlmor’s mother’s names was Moree. The jumbling of letters from the three names; Talimar, Moree and Dahlmor can easily make Tahmore. What if Dahlmor did change his name? It would certainly explain a few things.”

“Like what?” Asked Aliyah.

“The current Head Master, very little is known about him. He wears a mask covering his face, supposedly because he is severely disfigured. Not much is known about his early years, as he just seemed to appear from nowhere and straight away, the then High Centurion extended him special treatment and guided his progress into the Centurion Order. The Head Master’s two elements are Fire and Earth, the same as Dahlmor’s.” Ambrose concluded.

“Apparently, the High Centurion Gintaras, strongly supported and sponsored the Head Master and he was elected unopposed at the Centurion Duma.” Added Aliyah.

“I was there.” Commented Ringana. “None of the senior Centurions seemed to object or ask any questions. However, I find it hard to believe the Dahlmor is the Head Master.”

“If he is a powerful Medium, anything is possible.” Ambrose observed. “He would be able to control and influence people with his mind.”

“Surely, the more powerful Centurions would not be able to be manipulated by a Medium.” Ringana questioned Ambrose’s supposition.

“The extent of a Mediums power over others is uncertain. There is a reason why the Centurion Order fears Mediums and persecutes them.”

Aliyah interrupted. “Well, Ambrose. What do you hope to do now, that you have gleaned more information about Dahlmor?”

“Your Highness, I was hoping to return to my friends to further analyse what I have learned.”

“Why should I let you go? If you are a leader in the ‘Keepers’ organisation, I suppose I have an obligation to hand you over to the Centurion Order.” Aliyah was watching carefully for his reaction. Ambrose felt Bahkool tense beside him.

“Your Highness. In the current climate, I would have thought it is beholden for us all to uncover who is behind the Animoid Army and the Dark Terror attacks and do our best to stop them. What purpose would it serve if you were to hand me over to the Centurion Order?”

“Well, I am not beholden to anybody.” Aliyah paused, looked at her Elemental advisors then continued. “I cannot control what my Elemental advisors might do. They can report to Daarook whatever they believe is in their best interest, but I will release you under the following conditions. One, you keep me informed of your findings and warn me if it becomes known that Dahlmor is in fact Tahmore. Two, warn me if you think there is any chance Ravenshowl will be attacked. Three, don’t come back here unannounced or I will throw you in my dungeons. And finally, I would like you to introduce me to the Ancient one, Cargan.”

Ambrose stood up and bowed in respect. “Your Highness. I accept your conditions.”

“Good.” Aliyah stood up and the rest followed suit. “Bahkool, lead us to the tunnel entrance.”

Bahkool led them to the back of the palace, down many steps and through the catacombs. They stopped at the entrance to the tunnel.

“Your Highness. I will go and ask Cargan if he will meet with you. If he agrees, then you may enter the tunnel. He is too large to come out here.” Princess Aliyah acknowledged her agreement and Ambrose went through the entrance.

Cargan had been waiting. He was sitting with his back against the wall and his eyes were closed. Ambrose thought he was asleep. Quietly he said. “Cargan.”

Cargan opened his eyes and looked at Ambrose. “You return.” He then stood and stretched his large frame.

“Cargan, there is someone outside that would like to meet you.” Ambrose indicated toward the entrance.

“Bring them.”

Ambrose went back through the entrance. “Your Highness. He will meet with you. However, I suggest only you come through at this stage.”

Aliyah signalled for the others to stay. Then she and Ambrose went back through the entrance.

Aliyah was surprised at Cargan’s size and appearance. Cargan gave her a once over and then said. “You are not human. What do you call yourself?”

“My name is Princess Aliyah, ruler of Ravenshowl and I am commonly known as an Animoid.” She bowed to the Ancient. Cargan reached out his hand. Ambrose indicated that she should place her hand on Cargan’s. She didn’t hesitate. She immediately felt a tingling sensation.

“You are of the Air. Your bloodline stretches back before humans. You are welcome to use the maze, but tread carefully.” He withdrew his hand.

“Cargan, have you met someone like me before?” Aliyah asked tentatively.

“No.”

“Who knows how to navigate the maze?”

“The Ancients and maybe others, I will not name.” He seemed to be agitated by the question.

“Sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you.”

Ambrose whispered to Aliyah. “I think he means Dark Ones.”

Aliyah continued. “Thank you for agreeing to meet me. Can I contact you in the future?”

“Say my name against the wall and I will hear.” Cargan replied.

Aliyah turned to Ambrose. “By the Elements, I will let you go now. However, I will post a guard at the entrance. We will meet again.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.” Ambrose bowed as Aliyah left. Ambrose indicated for Cargan to lead the way back.

Pukavan

The morning had dragged on and Jaymar was getting frustrated, he really wanted to be flying. Rosalina had been working in her room all morning and keeping an eye on Jaymar. A Pukavan Lancer suddenly appeared at her door and knocked before entering.

“Elemental Rosalina, Her Highness Princess Sienna has requested your presence in her audience chamber. She is presiding over a dispute between two nobles and wants your advice.” The Lancer bowed after delivering his message.

“Thank you. I will come now.” Rosalina replied. “Jaymar, lunch will be ready soon down in the kitchen. How about you head down there now, and then I will meet you there, after my meeting.”

“Sure.” Jaymar finished working with the water and followed Rosalina and the guard out of the room.

They came to a branch in the corridor and Rosalina and the guard turned one direction. Jaymar turned down the other which led toward the kitchen. He stopped a short way along and then turned back. Rosalina and the guard had disappeared along the other corridor. Now was his chance. He headed back to Rosalina’s room. He was going to go flying.

Once in Rosalina’s room, it didn’t take long to find the backpack. It was a little different from the first one they had made. The two hand grips or levers that extended the wings now had handles that rotated allowing him to change the angle of the wings. This was supposed to help control the speed when coming into land. He lifted the pack off the stand it was on and it felt heavy. He then left Rosalina’s room and headed for the section of the palace wall they always used to launch. It was awkward carrying the pack as the wings were long and he had to try and keep them off the floor, so they didn’t get damaged. On the palace wall, he climbed onto a raised section and put the pack on his back. He tightened the straps that went across his chest and around his waist. Then he was ready to fly.

He looked out over the ocean below and noticed the sky was still mostly clear. Some clouds had started to form out to the north, but he was not concerned. He pulled on the two levers and the wings extended out. He noticed he had two settings, one where the wings were not fully extended and another for full extension. He practised alternating between them and looked at the wings to see how they changed. Next, he tried the new handle grips that rotated the wings down. Again, he noticed that there were three settings. The first setting, had the wings level with his back. The second setting shifted the wings about ten degrees and the last setting shifted the wings to about twenty degrees. It looked strange when standing, but he could see how they would work when flying. He adjusted his straps one more time then whistled up some wind and jumped out over the ocean.

He had done this plenty of times before and this time it felt better. Straight away he felt he had better control and was soon climbing up into the sky.

Mountains South of Utway

Darwah had reluctantly decided that day would be their last in the cave. Searching for Demarco and his family had drawn a blank. No sign at all and his small group of Dark Ones was eager to return to the Well. They had already urged Darwah to take them home to their families. Darwah knew that Calzar would not be happy with anything less than bringing Demarco back to face their leader. His audience with Calzar was looking grim.

Not far away Demarco and his family group sat in silence. They had not ventured out for many days and were starting to get low on food. Ishant, Demarco’s nephew had been out scouting for the searchers, several days ago. He had seen them approach and informed Demarco, so they all knew that they were close. Demarco now reluctantly decided he would have to fly out and survey the area once the sun had gone down.

Pukavan

Rosalina returned to her rooms to find them empty. Initially, it didn’t concern her. Jaymar was most likely still in the kitchen. Then she noticed something missing. Oh no! The backpack was gone. She raced out to the section of the wall where they usually launched the kite. Nothing. She strained her eyes searching the sky out over the ocean for several minutes, Jaymar was nowhere to be seen.

Rosalina initially didn’t know what to do. ’No time to waste, I will go look for him.’ She made up her mind. She headed straight to the kite which was already set to go. She strapped herself in, released the brake, took a couple of steps and launched into the air. She whistled up some wind and was quickly climbing into a slightly cloudy sky. She was doing circles as she rose up which also gave her a chance to scan around 360 degrees. As she climbed, she noticed a strong wind blowing from a south-easterly direction. It would be blowing Jaymar towards Utway. Plus, she noticed that storm clouds were starting to build in the north-east.

The wind was growing stronger and stronger, pushing her further away from the palace. She knew it was going to take some skilful flying, of the kite, to return against the wind. She hadn’t sighted Jaymar and decided she had to return now.

It took Rosalina almost an hour to work her way back against the strong wind and finally land back in the palace grounds. She knew Jaymar had improved as a flyer but even he would find it increasingly difficult to fly against such a strong wind. She needed to get someone to head north on the ground and quickly. Fineen immediately came to mind. She left the kite and headed straight for Jaymar’s parent’s place. She hoped Fineen would be close by.

Jaymar was getting battered by the wind. He had been trying to head back to the palace but nothing he tried was working. Plus, now he was on the edge of a storm that was building out over the ocean. He thought his best option now was to try and outrun the storm and head inland and over the mountain range. If the storm stayed on the coast, he could then fly back on the other side of the range and cross over back to Pukavan. He still thought he had plenty of daylight. He was wrong. There was only an hour till sunset.

Rosalina burst into the kitchen at Jaymar’s parent’s place and found Grimhilda sitting at the table. She was nearly out of breath but managed to blurt out. “Sorry to burst in on you, but I need Fineen?” Grimhilda could see that Rosalina was in a state. She jumped up from the table.

“Calm down. What’s the rush?”

“Sorry, it’s Jaymar. He is out flying, and I cannot find him.”

“What? Where?” Grimhilda was shocked.

“I think the wind has blown him north of Pukavan and I need someone to go after him on land. So, where is Fineen?”

Grimhilda’s mind was racing. She collected her thoughts and finally answered. “She is in the local Inn around the corner. Come, let’s go and find her.”