Ruler of the Skies

The Dark Winter

The darkness of winter was a half-light. Nearer the equator, the sun did rise, but not far above the horizon and heavy clouds hung over most of Mikaia keeping it cold and dark. Snow blizzards were a common occurrence in most parts of Auroras Major.

The Dark Terror were at their worst during the winter and now they were more emboldened after the successful attack and destruction of Volkmire. Even though they had a setback against Gymbala, the Dark Terror had been very active so far this winter, concentrating their attacks in and around Falsbrook.

Centurion Pryborg had been eager to leave Gymbala for Pukavan, but Mayor Vlaghim had ordered no ships were allowed to leave the city. The ships were needed to evacuate as many people as possible in case of another attack. Besides, that far south, the sailors didn’t like being out at sea in the cold and exposed to potential Dark Terror attacks. Plus, the very low light made navigation dangerous.

Pryborg had decided to wait till after the worst of the winter had passed and it was now in the last moon cycle. He was starting to believe it was time to go; besides he was totally frustrated and bored. Centurion Rookardi had also decided to stay in Gymbala until the winter had passed and he was not helping. Whenever possible, Rookardi would take pleasure in annoying Pryborg. They were from different sects within the Centurion Order and despised each other.

A small contingent of Pukavan Archers had been left in Gymbala. Pryborg and the Archers had taken charge of the defence of the city. Organising the building of new net slings and other mechanical bows that shoot multiple arrows at once. They had also hand-picked the best local militiamen to give them extra training in archery.

Mayor Vlaghim was feeling more at ease with his city’s preparedness if another attack eventuated. Arkana, the main Elemental adviser to the Mayor, was not that comfortable with two Centurions in the city. He had to be very careful not to allow them to get any hint of his ‘Keeper’ activities. Plus, he had to bow and scrape whenever he was around the Centurions. He regularly sent messages out through the ‘Keepers’ network to keep as many people up to date with what was happening in Gymbala. He also hoped that his messages would find their way to Ambrose, a leader within the ‘Keepers’ organisation.

Mayor Vlaghim had called a meeting for all his advisers. Centurions Rookardi and Pryborg were there as was Elemental Arkana.

“Thank you all for coming. I have received another report today. The Dark Terror attacks in and around Falsbrook have intensified. Prince Jarl has continued his call for assistance, but as you all know we cannot afford to let any of our militiamen go.” Everyone in the room seemed to agree.

“More and more people are arriving from the Falsbrook region. Most are Animoids as Prince Jarl has still not changed his stance on banning them from his realm.” He gave a side glance at the couple of Animoids in the room.

“The temporary housing in the city square is overcrowded. What is the latest?” He directed his question at Elemental Arkana.

“Lord Mayor, it is tight, we might be able to squeeze in another fifty, but then that would be all we can cope with.” Responded Arkana. “Plus, we have started rationing our food supplies.”

“Well, as of today, I am ordering that the city gates be closed to any newcomers. They will have to set up camp outside the city.”

“Isn’t that a bit drastic?” Rookardi was just stirring the pot, so to speak.

“Your Eminence. You are a welcome visitor here, but I have a responsibility to my people and this city. What of our defences?” The Mayor moved on to the next topic.

Pryborg responded. “Lord Mayor. I believe your militia are now well placed to mount an adequate defence. The Pukavan Archers are of course a bonus. Sir, I believe I have done all I can to assist you and now I will take my leave. I am going to Pukavan, but since you will not allow any ships to leave, I will go overland.”

A hush fell over the room. The Mayor looked concerned.

“Your Eminence. Centurion Pryborg, I am disappointed with your decision, but I cannot stop you. I wish you well on your dangerous journey.”

All in the room understood his meaning. The journey overland would take Pryborg through the Lizard people’s territory ruled from Lockmort. Whilst the Lizard soldiers had come and been a deciding factor in the victorious defence against the recent Dark Terror attack. No truce had been brokered yet between Lockmort and its enemies. So, travelling through the Lizard people’s territory was still very uncertain and remained a dangerous journey.

After a short pause, the Mayor asked. “Your Eminence, Centurion Rookardi, do you also plan to leave us?”

“No, Lord Mayor, it’s too cold for travelling. I intend to accept your hospitality for a while longer.”

The Mayor concluded the meeting and dismissed everyone except Elemental Arkana.

“Will we be able to defend the city without Centurion Pryborg?”

“Sir, he will be missed. In the end, it depends on the size of the attack. If they were to attack in the same numbers as last time we will be stretched.”

“If you can do anything to delay him I would appreciate it.”

Arkana bowed his head slightly and then he left to tend to his many duties.

The Well of Darkness

Tahmore had commanded the Dark Terror to concentrate their attacks in and around Falsbrook, but more recently Calzar, the Dark Terror leader, had also been ordered to attack Gymbala again. Centurion Santos was rugged up against the cold. He stood waiting at the top of the Well. He had been meeting regularly with Calzar and once again was not looking forward to their meeting.

The Dark Terror leader flashed past as he flew up out of the Well. He circled above the Centurion and then landed a few metres away.

“What now Day Walker? These meetings are getting tedious.” Calzar snarled.

“You have been ordered to attack Gymbala. You are stalling.”

“I don’t take orders from you, Day Walker.”

“You heard the Head Master. I have already reported that you have no plans to attack Gymbala. He will be back shortly to talk to you in person.”

“You don’t scare me.” Calzar spat at Santos’s feet. “We have been rebuilding our strength. Tell your master that I am ready and we will attack shortly.” Calzar took one step, flexed his wings and flew up into the air. He circled around once and then flew very close to Santos as he dived down into the Well. Santos didn’t flinch, then he turned and walked away, heading back to the Animoid army camp.

Vygram and a couple of other Dark Ones were waiting at the bottom of the Well. Calzar landed on the last step and then pushed passed those waiting for him. He walked directly to his cave followed by Vygram. Calzar ordered those in his cave to leave except Vygram. When they were alone, he turned to Vygram. “Prepare for an attack on Gymbala.”

“Lord, they will be ready for us.”

“We must make a show for the Day Walker. Now leave me.”

Vygram hesitated, but then obeyed his leader and left to organise the raiding party.

Calzar was angry and bitter. He had done as Tahmore had asked and terrorised the surrounding areas of Falsbrook, but he had also been sending many of his Dark Ones out in search of his brother, Demarco.

Demarco and his family had rebelled against him and fled the Well. He was desperate to catch them and bring Demarco back for punishment. The defeat at Gymbala and the rebellion by Demarco had caused some Dark Ones to question his leadership. He needed a victory to silence them. Finding Demarco and bringing him to account, he believed would strengthen his leadership.

Daarook

Ava had been given her school robes which are grey and plain. Her more fancy clothes had been taken away and put in storage for her. She was not royalty in Daarook, just Ava from Tamplina.

After the end of last year’s graduation ceremonies, more than half the students had left. Returning to their homes during the Dark Winter. Ava was bored, nothing to do and no one to talk to. The only thing she was required to do was to practice her mind control with an Elemental teacher first thing each day.

One of the older Elemental teachers Tobias, who is head of Communications, had suggested she spend time in the library learning as much as she could about the Elements and the history of the Centurion Order. She had met all the teachers and they all seemed affable towards her. However, Ava made a point of avoiding the Head Matron Centurion Kaskali, after the rather cold welcome she received when she first entered the school.

It was another very cold, dark and windy day in Daarook. Ava had finished her Elemental exercises and had decided to spend the day in the library because it always had a large fire burning. She would normally find a couple of books, then sit and read in front of the fire.

Ava had found a book on a Centurion called Melfor. He was the Head Master of the High School for Elementals when the Animoid Uprising occurred. It was a key moment in the history of the Centurion Order and Mikaia. She had, of course, heard of the Animoid Uprising because it saw the end of the High Prince of the West. It was at that time her ancestors came to power in Tamplina. She had only just opened the book when she heard voices. She looked over her shoulder to see the Head Matron and another Centurion deep in conversation. She quickly slunk down in her seat, hoping not to be seen. The voices grew quiet as the couple went on their way. Ava relaxed and turned her attention back to her book.

“Hello, Ava.” She jumped at the sudden appearance of the Centurion in front of her.

“Do you remember me? My name is Donarto. I spoke with your mother before she left and I assured her that I would keep a watchful eye over you.”

“Your Eminence. Yes, I remember you. Thank you for your kind offer.” Ava was feeling a little uneasy under the gaze of his keen blue eyes. Donarto was a tall, slim man of middle age with dark flowing hair. He wore the normal purple Centurion robe with one sleeve of red for Fire with the Fire symbol on the cuff:

The other sleeve was yellow for Air and it had the Air symbol on the cuff:

“I see you are studying up on some Daarook history.”

“Yes, Your Eminence. Elemental Tobias suggested I read up about the Centurion Order.” Ava was coy in her response.

Donarto took the book. “Melfor was truly a great Head Master. Good choice.” He handed the book back to her. “If you need any assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact me.” He bowed his head slightly then left. Ava watched him leave and then returned to her book.

That evening Tobias was walking along one of the corridors when he approached a familiar statue situated in a niche. He found a mark on the statue in a prearranged location. It was a signal from a ‘Keeper’ spy, high up in the ranks of the most senior Centurions. He knew its meaning. He was to attend a meeting at one of several carefully selected locations in the surrounds of the Centurion Citadel.

This time he was to go to the waterfall, that flowed from the headwaters of the Sweetsprings River. There was a secret cave behind the waterfall. It was very dark and Tobias was surprised when he arrived to find three heavily robed figures. Their robes had large hoods and they fully covered their Centurion or Elemental robes. Tobias was unable to identify any of them. The tallest in the group was talking as he approached and he recognised the voice from previous meetings. The other two figures, he was unsure if he had met them before.

“Welcome, Tobias.” The taller figure spoke in a whisper and Tobias had to listen carefully due to the noise of the waterfall.

“We have called you to this meeting because of recent news from Ambrose. He believes the Dark Terror is being controlled by a senior Centurion or Centurions from within Daarook. The attacks on Volkmire and Gymbala both occurred during thunderstorms controlled by Elementals. The Dark Terror suffered a setback at Gymbala, but he is sure they will strike again.”

He paused for a moment. “The other disturbing development is the attacks by Animoids in the East. Pinemarsh and Bundamook were a shock and Prince Xavier is struggling to mount an effective defence. We are putting the whole ‘Keepers’ organisation on high alert. We plan to meet more regularly and will give you further instructions later. Do you have any questions?”

Tobias was a bit bewildered and paused to consider what to say. “I am at your service Eminence, as always.” Was all he could say.

One of the others in the group added. “There is one extra thing we want you to do. Keep a close eye on Princess Ava.” The person speaking had a female voice and one that Tobias thought he recognised. She added. “One day she will be very valuable to us.”

Tobias pondered this statement and then got the feeling the meeting was over. He left the others and headed back to the High School for Elementals.

The three figures waited a few minutes after Tobias had left before the female in the group spoke. “Dangerous times are ahead of us. Any messages to or from Ambrose must be carefully concealed, more than usual. Pukavan is a long way away and messages will pass through many hands. We can’t afford any slip-ups.”

The tall figure asked. “What of the boy?′

“He is developing well, but he is not getting the schooling he could if he was here.” The female observed.

“We all know that is not possible. Ambrose will do a good job. Now we must go.” Commanded the tall figure. They left one at a time several minutes apart. They didn’t want anyone accidentally seeing them together.

Pukavan

Jaymar was up early as usual; he had become friends with two local boys his own age. They met at the West gate early each morning and headed out a short way to a group of small trees that formed a circle. There they would practice their combat moves, sparring against each other until it was time to head back for breakfast. Each time they ventured out of the gate, the guards told them to stay together and not to go beyond the group of trees, so they could keep an eye on them. It was still winter.

Fingals was of similar build to Jaymar and he was the very proud son of a Pukavan Lancer. Tomic was a little taller than the other two boys and he was the son of a rich merchant. Both the boys had decided to follow their fathers into their chosen professions, once the Dark Winter moons had passed.

The two boys found it hard sparring against Jaymar because he was now better at using his Elemental powers. Mostly he used the element air to his advantage, sometimes pushing air at his opponent to make them lose balance and other times he would use air on himself to move quickly into position. The other two boys didn’t mind, as it was also helping them improve their combat skills.

Fingals and Tomic had just finished a session against each other, with Tomic winning the bout when Jaymar noticed Ambrose approaching from the city.

“Ambrose.” He called out and waved.

“Hi boys. Your skills are developing well.” He observed as he joined them.

“Jaymar is more advanced and he makes us work hard.” Tomic said, throwing himself on the ground next to Jaymar. Fingals was just leaning on his cudgel, catching his breath.

“Do you mind boys, I would like to talk with Jaymar?”

“Sure, we were heading back for breakfast anyway.” Fingals indicated to Tomic to follow him as he left for the West gate. Tomic dragged himself up off the ground, waved goodbye to Jaymar and hurried to catch up with Fingals.

“I’m hungry too and was about to go home with the others. What do you want to talk about?” Jaymar asked.

“It won’t take long. I just want to inform you that I am going away for a short time.”

“Oh. So, I’m not going with you?” Jaymar was a bit disappointed.

“I have an old friend I have to meet. I should only be away a few days.”

“Are you taking Udolf, Fineen or any of the others?”

“No. Tallulah has made contact with my friend through her dolphin contacts, but I will be going alone.”

“Who are you meeting?” Jaymar inquired.

“Come on, let’s walk back and get some breakfast.” Ambrose was avoiding the question.

They started walking together, and then Ambrose said. “What I am about to tell you is confidential. Please don’t tell anyone else. I am meeting Wanda, a very old and dear friend. We don’t see each other very often, but it’s very important that I tell her all the things that have happened and especially tell her about you.”

“Is she a ‘Keeper’ like you?”

“Yes, one of the original founders, in fact. She is very wise and together we may be able to work out what to do about the current situation.”

“Do you mean the Dark Terror attacks?”

“Yes, but also the Animoid army, that has been puzzling me. I need to know if they are linked and who is behind them.”

They walked in silence for a while. When they reached the West gate the guards on duty waved them through. The streets were quiet as it was still early.

Ambrose broke the silence. “I have arranged for Rosalina to spend some time with you. As you know she is an Air Elemental. Each day after lunch, I want you to go to the palace and the guards will show the way to her rooms.”

It didn’t take long before they were back at the house where Jaymar and his parents were living. They entered by the back door which opened into the kitchen. Grimhilda, Jaymar’s mother was there. “Hello, you just missed Raum. He has gone to the docks.”

Grimhilda placed a plate of bacon and eggs on the table and gave her son a smile. “Here’s your breakfast. Ambrose, what would you like?”

“That looks good, I’ll have the same. Thanks.”

She grabbed a couple of eggs and started cooking Ambrose his breakfast.

“How are the boys?” Grimhilda asked as she went about her work.

“Fine. Tomic nearly beat me this morning. He is very quick.” Observed Jaymar.

Grimhilda changed the topic. “Ambrose, what’s the latest from the palace?”

“There has been another meeting with representatives from Lockmort. Talks are very slow, with neither side willing to concede much. One disturbing piece of news was that both groups have reported a Dark Terror attack on some of their people.”

“Anyone get hurt? I didn’t think they ventured this far North West from the mountains.” Grimhilda looked concerned.

“They haven’t in the past, but we know that things have changed since the attacks on Volkmire and Gymbala. No one was hurt, just some livestock was taken.” Ambrose paused before adding. “Oh, and Prince Aravin’s birthday is coming up soon. We should all be getting an invitation.”

“He’s turning eleven. Isn’t he?” Asked Grimhilda.

“Yes. Princess Sienna is very proud of him and the celebrations will be grand.”

Grimhilda placed Ambrose’s breakfast on the table and sat next to her son.

“Raum said that you are going away for a short while.” She commented.

“Yes, I was just telling Jaymar. I should be away for no more than six days. There is a little town North West of here called Utway. It’s on the tip of the peninsula and under the protection of the Pukavan Lancers.” That’s all Ambrose wanted to tell Grimhilda about his trip. He got stuck into his breakfast, before adding.

“I asked Raum, if it was ok, for Jaymar to spend his afternoons at the palace with Elemental Rosalina, while I am away.”

“I’m sure Jaymar will enjoy that.” Grimhilda smiled as she cleared away Jaymar’s plate.

Ambrose finished his breakfast, stood up and said goodbye. “I will see you on my return.” He left by the back door and headed for the Inn, he and his friends were staying at. He just had to collect his travel bag, weapons and then be on his way.

Tamplina

Princess Isabella and Centurion Rustilan arrived back in Tamplina just as the Dark Winter was starting. Isabella had been in a hurry. She wanted to get home and tell her husband firsthand what had happened in Daarook. On arrival, Rustilan presented a scroll outlining the High Centurions decision to keep Princess Ava in Daarook. Prince Melville angrily ordered Rustilan out of the palace, so he found his own accommodation in the city.

Since then Prince Melville and Isabella had shunned Rustilan and in fact, they had made it very clear he was not welcome in Tamplina. Elemental Seaghan was assigned to keep a close watch on the Centurion. Rustilan, in the end, decided it would be better to see out the Dark Winter in Middleton before heading south to find Centurions Pryborg and Rookardi. Rustilan sent word to the royal couple informing them of his departure and then set off with a small escort for Middleton.

Melville and Isabella spent many hours, with their son, Prince Theodor, consoling each other and trying to work out a way to rescue their daughter from Daarook.

Gymbala

Pryborg was packed and ready to leave. He was going alone on horseback. Elemental Arkana knocked on the door to Pryborg’s room and entered.

“Your Eminence. I know you are eager to leave, but we have had an issue with one of the net slings. I was wondering if you could have a look.”

“Are you incompetent? No need to answer that.” Pryborg was annoyed. “Alright, I will have a look at the sling. Lead the way.”

Arkana bowed his head slightly and led Pryborg out of the room. The net sling was on the other side of Gymbala. This made Pryborg even angrier. When they got there, Pryborg did a quick inspection and then turned on Arkana.

“There is nothing wrong.” He then ordered one of the guards to fire the weapon. It worked fine.

“Retrieve the net and I will show you one more time how to load the sling properly.”

The guard quickly set off to retrieve the net from the street below. Arkana just stood around avoiding eye contact with Pryborg as they waited.

The guard returned, breathing heavily, as he dragged the net up to the sling position. Pryborg immediately started barking instructions on how to correctly load the sling. A short time later the weapon was reloaded and Pryborg did one last inspection.

“I hope you were paying attention. It’s now ready.” He turned and headed back to his rooms. Arkana remained behind. He was running out of ideas on how to keep Pryborg from leaving.

Calzar and a medium force of Dark Ones had assembled on a mountain ridge south of Gymbala. During the Dark Winter months, they were not restricted to flying at night. Centurion Santos and only one other Elemental had positioned themselves close to Gymbala. This was only as a precaution; they would not need to create a thunderstorm. There was plenty of cloud cover and that far South, the sun didn’t rise. Their presence was more to observe the attack and keep watch on Calzar. Santos would report on the attack to Tahmore, the Head Master of the School for Elementals.

Calzar blew a high note on his horn and the Dark Ones launched into the air as one. They quickly climbed into the dark sky and began to form into their usual battle formation. Last time they had attacked Gymbala by splitting into four groups and attacking from four sides. This time Calzar had ordered an all-out assault on the main South gate.

Pryborg was just returning to his room when the alarm sounded. He immediately thought it was a false alarm. He soon realised from the noise and bustle in the streets that it was the real thing. He hurried out the door, heading for the main South gate. When he arrived, he found Centurion Rookardi already on the wall with the commanders of both the Pukavan archers and local militiamen. A line of dark figures in the sky was approaching rapidly from the South.

Rookardi ordered Pryborg. “Send a blast of air out to break up their formation.” Pryborg ignored him and asked the Pukavan commander. “Are your archers deployed as instructed?”

“Yes. We are ready, Your Eminence.”

Pryborg then walked a few paces along the wall to give himself room. He started to call the wind and directed it at the oncoming enemy. The gust of wind rushed past the defenders on the wall. It stirred up a cloud of dust and hit the leading Dark Ones as they neared the gate. Several faulted but overall it had little effect.

Rookardi raised his hand and produced a ball of fire. He picked out one of the leaders and threw the fireball at him. Because the Dark Ones were tightly packed in their formation, the ball hit its target as the Dark One had no room to evade it. The creature was quickly consumed in fire and fell screaming to the ground.

“Fire.” The Pukavan archers and militiamen fired their first salvo. Their training had paid off with deadly accuracy. Many Dark Ones fell from the sky. Their formation broke as many flew higher to avoid the arrows.

Defensive cabling had been deployed between many of the buildings and the walls, making it hard for the Dark Ones to land in the streets. Plus the net slings were playing their part, bringing down three creatures in their first salvo. The creatures were quickly set on and killed by militiamen on the ground. The nets had to be quickly retrieved and returned to the slings as they only had two nets per sling.

Several sections of the wall, that could not be easily defended, had been set up with long trays full of oil. Rookardi now threw fireballs into the trays and a wall of flames shot up. This made it impossible for the Dark Ones to land on those sections of the wall. Rookardi was also very effective at targeting individual attackers with his balls of fire.

The defence was holding and Calzar was frustrated and angry that Gymbala was once again mounting a strong defence. He spotted Rookardi on the wall and could see that the Centurion was having a devastating effect on his attackers. He called for Vygram to follow him as he dived down to attack the Centurion himself.

Calzar and Vygram dodged a number of arrows and then landed on the wall a few metres from Rookardi. He was not looking in their direction when they came down and was only aware when a Pukavan archer called out to warn him. He quickly turned and raised both hands producing two fireballs. He threw one at Calzar first, but the Dark One leader knocked it away with his short sword. Sparks flew everywhere and his forearm was scorched but he charged at Rookardi. The Centurion sensing the danger, threw the second fireball on the ground just in front of him. It exploded and flames leapt up. Momentarily it blocked Calzar. It was enough time for Rookardi to turn and run along the wall. A couple of defenders allowed him to pass and then they readied themselves to block the Dark Terror leader. Calzar leapt over the flames and charged the defenders. They were no match for him. He quickly dispatched them both before continuing his pursuit of Rookardi. An archer fired a couple of arrows in quick succession. Calzar dodged them but Vygram coming close behind was not so lucky. He took an arrow in the shoulder, but the second arrow missed. It didn’t stop him, he was right on Calzar’s heels.

As Rookardi ran along the wall most the defenders also turned and fled. The few that stayed to defend were easily killed by Calzar and Vygram as they continued in their pursuit. Rookardi reached a section of the wall were the commander of the Pukavan archers was stationed with several of his men. They had been concentrating their fire on the Dark Ones directly above. The commander seeing Rookardi, quickly turned and fired an arrow over his shoulder. It hit Calzar in the forearm. He didn’t flinch and broke the arrow shaft off as he ran.

Rookardi turned and threw two fireballs onto the ground. This time it brought Calzar to a halt. He roared in rage and took to the air. The archers immediate tried to shoot him down, but he was too quick and agile, dodging arrows as he escaped. Vygram, on the other hand, was too slow to take to the air and the Pukavan commander hit him in the chest with an arrow. It was not a mortal wound, but it hampered his ability to fly. Rookardi saw his opportunity and threw another fireball. Vygram took a direct hit and was engulfed in flames. He screamed in pain and kept trying to fly, but he ended up falling off the wall. He crashed heavily on the ground below. Defenders moving in quickly to ensure he was dead. Cheers erupted from the defenders on the wall. They knew they had just killed one of the Dark Terror leaders.

Calzar saw Vygram fall and blew two high notes on his horn signalling a retreat. He had failed again. The Dark Ones immediately started to withdraw. The archers wreaked havoc on those taken by surprise by the signal from their leader to retreat.

More cheers erupted as the defenders realised the attack was over. They had successfully defended their city again. Pryborg, who had been on another section of the wall using wind to knock Dark Ones out of the sky or off balance, came striding along the wall towards Rookardi.

“Commander, get some men to search the streets and kill any stragglers.” He barked an order at the militia leader.

Rookardi turned to the Pukavan commander. “Thank you. I am sure that was their leader. I don’t think they will be returning today.”

“You may be right, but we will need to rebuild the defences again quickly. We don’t know when they may return.” He turned, walked off along the wall to see to his men and check the defences.

Rookardi turned to Pryborg. “I thought you were leaving today?”

“Well, I may have to stay a while longer.” He was not happy and also left Rookardi standing alone on the wall.

Pryborg passed Elemental Arkana in the street on his way back to his rooms. Arkana was tending to some of the wounded.

“I will stay a few more days and lend assistance.” Pryborg said in passing.

“We appreciate your help.” Arkana thanked him.

Daarook

Prince Tolgarn, with an escort of twenty soldiers, had entered Daarook and was heading for the Centurion Citadel. It was nearing the end of a bleak day. Ava had returned to her room and was looking out the window when she noticed the heavily armed group. She watched as they came through the main gate that separated the town of Daarook from the High School for Elementals and the Centurion buildings. The group crossed the open square in front of the Centurion Citadel and dismounted.

She wondered who their leader was. Then she noticed a familiarity about one of them. He was short in stature and had an angry disposition. Ordering the greeting Elementals to tender the horses and then he strode into the Citadel. She recognised him as Prince Tolgarn from Kaemoora. She had met him and his father at the Festival of Light last year. She would have to question some of the Elementals later, as to why the Prince was here. Especially since not many people dared travel in the open during the Dark Winter.

Prince Tolgarn is the son of Prince Xavier, the younger brother of the High Prince Anastas. He had just turned nineteen and was eager to flex his muscles. The Animoid raids in his father’s realm had spurred Tolgarn into action.

He was jealous of his uncle and his cousin Princess Imogene. He was older than her and of the opinion that he should be the next in line to be the High Prince of the East. He was the eldest male of all the Princes in the East of Auroras Major. He thought, Imogene being a female should not even be considered. She would be Princess of Conaldra, but he was after the position of High Prince of the East.

He had convinced his father to pursue a dangerous course of action. Assassinate Prince Anastas and take the throne as the new High Prince. Together they had approached the High Centurion Gintaras, leader of the Centurion Order and cousin by way of Xavier’s wife, to plot Anastas death. So far two attempts had failed. Gintaras had also found an ally in the Head Master of the High School for Elementals.

A hasty audience was organised for the Prince to meet with the High Centurion Gintaras. Centurion Graguut was also summoned to attend the meeting.

“Prince Tolgarn, it is unwise to travel during the Dark Winter.” Gintaras was sitting in a large chair positioned on a dais with Graguut sitting on his left.

“Your Eminence, I have soldiers at my back.” Tolgarn was not interested in chit chat and came straight to the point.

“Why are the Animoids attacking my towns? You were supposed to rid the East of the High Prince not ravage my father’s realm.”

“Your Highness, the Animoids are not under our control.”

“Don’t lie to me. I demand to talk to the Head Master.”

“That is not possible. The Head Master is not available at this time.”

“I want these attacks to cease immediately.” Tolgarn was getting angry.

“Your Highness, as previously stated the Animoids are not under our control. We sympathise with the people of Pinemarsh and Bundamook but there is little we can do.”

Tolgarn paused, looked at both the senior Centurions and then threatened them. “If these attacks don’t stop. I will return with not just twenty soldiers at my back, but an army. Tell the Head Master that.” He turned and stormed out of the hall.

Gintarras waited until he was gone. “I will go and inform the Head Master.”

Graguut commented. “Perhaps a different strategy is in order.”

Ava was drawn to the window again when Prince Tolgarn reappeared. He was clearly angry and shouting at the Elementals and his soldiers. They soon were all mounted and left heading back through the town of Daarook.

The Head Master was sitting behind his desk when the High Centurion entered. Elbert, the vulture, was sitting quietly on his perch.

“Your Excellency, I’m sure you know of Prince Tolgarn’s visit.”

“Yes. What did the obnoxious little fool want?”

“A stop to the Animoid attacks. He has threatened to return with an army.”

“Do you think I should change my plans? I have noticed that we are not getting enough of Anastas’s attention. He has not yet committed any of his Conaldra Royals to fight the Animoids. If Prince Tolgarn wants our assistance then maybe it is time for him to declare his hand. Send Centurion Santina to negotiate our new terms. We will coordinate the takeover of all the eastern territories. He and his father will have to work with the Animoids and conquer Prince Levan’s realm, then we will turn their combined forces back on Anastas.”

“That would mean open civil war.” Observed Gintaras.

“It’s time for our lizard friends to play their part. I will send orders to Uparta.” Gintaras bowed his head slightly and left to carry out the Head Masters orders.